Creating Safe Pathways: How Schools Can Support Autistic Students Through Crisis
In this episode of Converge Autism Radio, guest host Reid Miles speaks with Dr. Alice Ackerman and Rebecca Erwin, two experienced clinicians and educators working at the intersection of autism, behavioral health, and school crisis response.
Together they explore:
- The critical role schools play in supporting autistic students
- Why behavior is communication — not defiance
- How schools can respond to crisis without escalation
- What teachers and parents actually need during high-stress moments
- The importance of training, collaboration, and early intervention
- Real-world examples from clinical and educational settings
- How professionals can shift from fear and reactivity to understanding and partnership
This is a grounded, compassionate conversation for parents, teachers, clinicians, and advocates seeking deeper insight into trauma-informed, neurodiversity-aware crisis support.
Guest Websites:
Dr. Alice Ackerman
https://adackerman.com
Rebecca Erwin
www.thelarkcenter.com
This episode is part of the Converge Autism Podcastathon and includes a mid-show spotlight for Springbrook Behavioral Health’s newest program, All Abilities & No Filter.