Katie Brady, LCSW provides a number of services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as their families and the professionals who work with them. She provides services in the greater Raleigh – Durham – Chapel Hill area. Ms. Brady effectively utilizes structured teaching strategies that she learned during her six years with the TEACCH program to promote learning new skills, gaining independence, and increasing happiness. She bases her work on the following core values:

1. Respect for the Dignity and Worth of Every Individual – Each individual with ASD has the right to a happy, meaningful life.

2. The Culture of Autism – The Culture of Autism is a concept developed by Dr. Gary Mesibov and Dr. Vickie Shea. This idea puts forth the notion that individuals with ASD have their own culture, ways of thinking and communication, that are not less than the “neurotypical world” but simply different. In the same vein, mutual accommodation is a TEACCH concept that approaches working with individuals with ASD with a “meet in the middle” approach. Instead of expecting the individual with ASD to give up their culture and conform to the “neurotypical world,” mutual accommodation appreciates the individual’s perspective while teaching him or her new skills and providing supports and accommodations to be as successful and independent as possible.Understanding the culture of autism brings greater awareness and success to individuals with ASD and their families.

3. Utilizing Strengths and Interests to Teach New Skills – Each individual with ASD has unique strengths and interests. These assets are helpful when promoting new skill acquisition.