Autism & Mental Health: with Cheryl Checkers by

Episode Information

bbrow128 — 2025-06-28 23:57:50 UTC

Spectrumly Speaking

Episode 158

Guest: Cheryl Checkers, LMHC, MCC

Main Idea: Intersection between Mental Health and Autism

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spectrumly-speaking/id1223810038

Main Idea

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 00:10:43 UTC

Autism and Mental Health very often co occur

Not much support for both together, it's either one or the other

Cheryl is currently cross training over 400 professionals in Florida

Real World

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 00:15:25 UTC

Cheryl's daughter had struggles with mental health symptoms until she was diagnosed with autism also

In May, Mental Health Awareness Month, Cheryl had autism specific speakers and panels at the NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness)

Perspective & Viewpoints

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 00:33:56 UTC

Cheryl had a dual perspective as a mental health counselor and parent of an autistic child

Haley Moss (host) offered a perspective as an attorney and someone with diagnosed autism

Special Education

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 00:38:22 UTC

Educators and others at the school involved with the student need to realize that autistic students often have co-occurring mental health needs also

Educators should promote awareness to all students and staff so they can create inclusion throughout the school

Strategies & Resources

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 00:45:04 UTC

Like Cheryl is doing in Florida, schools could cross train educators and staff in their school and community

Schools could have informational events that talked about both mental health and autism and that the often co-occur, include local autism networks and mental health associations

Challenge & Expand Understanding

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 04:52:21 UTC

It made it clear that mental health and autism co-occur in at least 70% of people, so there is a great need to cross train professional to be familiar with both

There needs to be collaboration and integrated support systems to support families and students

I also appreciated the way Cheryl and many parents need to advocate for their children

Questions?

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 04:57:40 UTC

How is the cross training of the task force being measured?

How to set up cross training in more states?

How can educators better work with mental health professionals to be sure their students needs are being met?

Professional Connections

bbrow128 — 2025-06-29 05:05:04 UTC

Helped to remember to see my students as a whole picture and not just a small piece of who they are.

I need to gain a better understanding of people with an autism diagnosis