Thriving as a Neurodivergent Entrepreneur: Essential Tips for Success – by Patrick Young (Able USA)

Starting a business can be rewarding, particularly for neurodivergent individuals who bring unique strengths and fresh perspectives to entrepreneurship. Leveraging your distinct cognitive style can drive innovation and open the door to new opportunities and successful outcomes. By embracing your strengths and tailoring your approach to suit your needs, you can build a thriving business … Read more Thriving as a Neurodivergent Entrepreneur: Essential Tips for Success – by Patrick Young (Able USA)


What to Consider when Moving with a Child on the Spectrum – by Patrick Young (Able USA)

family unpacking after moving

Moving into a new home can be an emotional roller coaster that alternates between the excitement of starting fresh and the fear of the unknown. Moving when you have a child on the spectrum makes the endeavour even more complicated. The hassle of house-hunting, packing, and moving is compounded by the challenge of making sure … Read more What to Consider when Moving with a Child on the Spectrum – by Patrick Young (Able USA)


The “Right Supports” & What They Made Possible

rear view of woman with arms raised at beach during sunset

Even before I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) at the age of 11, it was clear that I needed help with many areas of everyday functioning (including learning and social skills/etiquette).  However, it was quite difficult to determine exactly what type(s) of assistance I required without at least having a name for the source … Read more The “Right Supports” & What They Made Possible


Autism Spectrum Disorder – Level 1 or Asperger’s Syndrome?

I wanted to clarify where I stand in regards to the use of the label Autism Spectrum Disorder (or Condition, as I would personally prefer to call it) Level 1 vs. Asperger’s Syndrome.  While I understand that one of the reasons the Asperger’s label was removed [from the DSM] was due to its negative affiliation, … Read more Autism Spectrum Disorder – Level 1 or Asperger’s Syndrome?


General Life Skills – Introduction

Many individuals with ASDs would greatly benefit from getting support around everyday life skills, yet often have difficulty accessing it.  This is especially true for those who would be considered “high functioning”.  Consequently, a large number of these people are left to struggle and live on a [fixed] disability income.  From personal experience, I have … Read more General Life Skills – Introduction


Education / Employment – Introduction

Adequate educational and employment supports are crucial for many people with ASDs, as well as a major factor in their ability to achieve success. Some examples of educational supports may include: Sadly, a high number of people with ASDs are unemployed, underemployed, or employed in jobs below their skill level.  This very well could be … Read more Education / Employment – Introduction


Health & Fitness – Introduction

men and woman in red tank top is ready to run on track field

Health and fitness play a significant role in the ability of people with ASDs to function effectively in everyday life.  Proper self-care is essential for managing ASD related symptoms.  The benefits of a healthy lifestyle (eating a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, daily meditation, etc.) are truly endless. In addition to maintaining a healthy weight, some … Read more Health & Fitness – Introduction


Relationships / Pets – Introduction

kids lying on bed with black cat

People with ASDs would really benefit from a good social support system to teach the basic skills necessary to have healthy relationships with themselves and others.  Some of these skills include social etiquette, [reciprocal] communication (direct speaking, active listening, paying attention to nonverbal cues, etc.), empathy, accountability, setting and respecting boundaries; assertiveness, conflict resolution, and … Read more Relationships / Pets – Introduction


Why I Highly Recommend that Asperger’s Syndrome be Reintroduced in the DSM under Autism Spectrum Disorder(s)

blue text on white paper

Although the term Asperger’s Syndrome was officially introduced in 1981, it wasn’t until 1994 that it was added to the Diagnostic Statistics Manuals (DSM).  In 2013, a controversial decision was made to remove this diagnosis from the DSM, possibly because it was largely considered to be a [milder] form of autism.  While I would definitely … Read more Why I Highly Recommend that Asperger’s Syndrome be Reintroduced in the DSM under Autism Spectrum Disorder(s)