Effective Communication with Autistic Individuals: A Learning Session Focusing on Positive Language and Goal-Setting

Recorded November 1, 2023. Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging for autistic individuals and their advocates, often exacerbated by a predominant focus on deficits and inadequate use of language. In “Effective Communication with Autistic Individuals: A Learning Session Focusing on Positive Language and Goal-Setting,” we explore autism from both a neurodiversity and medical perspective, emphasizing that these models can coexist harmoniously.

This session delves into the ethical considerations surrounding language, intervention strategies, and goal-setting, with a strong emphasis on recognizing and harnessing strengths within the autistic community. Drawing on personal experience, presenter Nicholas Piroddi provides practical examples of effective communication while fostering a discussion on minimizing ableism, guided by current research in the field and his lived experience. Join us to empower yourself with the tools needed to facilitate respectful and inclusive communication in healthcare settings.

About the Presenter

Nicholas Piroddi is a graduate student at the University of Alberta, working out of the Autism Research Centre located at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital under the supervision of Dr. Lonnie Zwaigenbaum. He is an autistic individual and advocate who wants to dedicate his career to improving the quality of life for autistic individuals.

Alongside his thesis project, in which he is capturing pediatric residents’ perspectives and learning needs regarding autism care in the community, he is also involved as a research assistant for the national longitudinal studies “Pathways in ASD” and “Infant Sibling Study.” He has given talks on his lived experience on transitions, what pediatricians need to know about autism to medical students and residents and presented his research at local and national conferences.

Outside of his studies and work, Nicholas enjoys following the latest trends in music, Disney and Marvel movies, Nintendo gaming, and going for walks in nature.

Links from the video

Please note: The information given in this video was correct at the time of recording. If you are watching it at a later date, details could be outdated, and resources given may no longer be available.