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.

www.springbrookbehavioral.com

www.convergeautism.com

www.allabilitiesnofilter.com

Creating Safe Pathways: How Schools Can Support Autistic Students Through Crisis