Sensory Friendly ???
We are not endorsing the use of the techniques used by these providers for the treatment of autism, however, individuals we work with respond well to the sensory friendly strategies used by these companies and individuals. This page is to help families and individuals enjoy life more as they are able to function better in a low stress lifestyle.
Dr. Dallin Hubbard
Owner and doctor at Direct Care Pediatrics
Dr. Hubbard is committed to providing the highest quality care for autistic individuals. This includes working with Aspen ABA practitioners to allow clients to come into his clinic for stress-free exploration visits in one of the exam rooms. Clients can explore tools, climb up and down from the examination bed, and ask questions if they desire. This allows clients with anxiety or sensory defensiveness to relax and become acquainted with Dr. Hubbard’s clinic without any demands for an exam. With regular practice, Aspen ABA practitioners work toward gentle acceptance of allowing the doctor into the room, and over time, needed physical exams become acceptable to our clients.
Mckenna-London Thompson
Sensory haircut and barber specialist and owner at Innovative Studio
Mckenna-London is a sensory friendly hair stylist with a private ADA accessible hair studio. She allows clients to approach haircuts and styling gently and on their own timeline. Mckenna-London works with Aspen ABA practitioners to help clients become comfortable in the studio by providing affordable monthly memberships that allow clients to come in weekly with no demands until they are ready to try the first step towards a cut. She begins with setting a goal with practitioners and the client such as coming in to play with her fidgets, or perhaps climbing in her barber chair. Over time the goal for each session evolves to allowing Mckenna-London to brush the ends of their hair or hold scissors nearby without using them. Working with Aspen ABA practitioners, Mckenna-London has had staggering success with our clients in reducing their anxiety and stress around hair grooming.
Sara Gullihur-Bradford
Author, autism advocate and founder of SJ Childs Global Network, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting neurodivergent individuals, families, and service providers online.
Sara generously provides autism safety products for families free of charge. A powerhouse autism advocate, Sara has published children's books encouraging love and inclusion in every situation. Sara's books help children understand themselves and support their peers with neurodiverse needs. The SJ Childs podcast features discussions to provide support and assistance to families, a valuable contribution to the autism community.