Autism, Identity and Me: A Professional and Parent Guide to Support a Positive Understanding of Autistic Identity

This informative and engaging guidebook provides key adults – parents, school staff and therapists – with the tools needed to support children and young people as they develop a positive understanding of their Autistic identity.

The guidebook is designed to accompany the Autism, Identity and Me workbook, building the adult’s understanding of autism and Autistic identity, expanding upon the themes introduced and offering a clear and structured program of sessions to guide the young person through the workbook. Written with a US readership in mind, the guidebook has been shaped by Autistic advisors and contributors, with first-hand experiences woven throughout, alongside examples of possible "prompts", what to focus on as a lead adult and a variety of concrete, neurodiversity-affirming strategies. Having a positive understanding of your Autistic identity is an indicator of higher self-esteem and wellbeing as an adult.

This guidebook supports the development of this and will be valuable for all adults working with Autistic children and young people aged 10+. For effective use, this guide should be purchased alongside the workbook, Autism, Identity and Me: A Practical Workbook to Empower Autistic Children and Young People Aged 10+.

Rebecca Duffus, BSc, PGCE, MA, is an experienced advisory teacher with a psychology degree and a master's in autism and education. She has many years of experience working with students and educators in both mainstream and specialist education settings, as well as within local authority and education services. Rebecca has been a speaker at a range of conferences, developed a range of parent programs and provides training and coaching for settings. Rebecca is passionate about celebrating neurodiversity and is excited to share her UK bestsellers, Autism, Identity and Me with US readers!

Lyric Rivera, an Autistic self-advocate from Texas, is a prominent figure in the field of neurodiversity and autism advocacy. Over the years, Lyric has educated millions about autism and neuro-inclusion through their blog, NeuroDivergent Rebel, their consulting organization, NeuroDivergent Consulting, and their best-selling business ethics book, Workplace Neurodiversity Rising.