Ridge Zeller Therapy

01/27/2026

Masking: More Than Just “Fitting In
For many autistic people, masking, hiding or suppressing natural traits to blend into social environments, isn’t about pretending, it’s about survival. This strategy may have helped individuals navigate judgmental or unsafe spaces, but it often comes with real costs like exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout.
The article reframes masking as an adaptive survival mechanism, while reminding us that real inclusion means creating environments where neurodivergent people don’t have to hide who they are.

Autistic masking may be an evolved survival response to social risk: useful for belonging, but costly when sustained over a lifetime.

01/26/2026

The hit series Heated Rivalry is being praised for its thoughtful, authentic portrayal of autism through the character Shane Hollander, showing a nuanced neurodivergent experience without relying on stereotypes. Instead of spotlighting autism as a plot device, the show weaves it into Shane’s personality in a way that feels real and respectful.
This kind of storytelling matters because when we see characters with depth, complexity, and authentic humanity, it helps shift perceptions and brings more inclusive narratives to mainstream TV.

The runaway hit hockey romance gives us a different kind of autistic character, one created by an author and an actor with their own personal investment.

01/25/2026

This Year's Breakthroughs in Autism Research
2025 Autism Research Roundup: Big Steps Forward!
From better understanding autism’s biological pathways to uncovering why girls are often diagnosed later, 2025 brought major research breakthroughs that help explain the diversity of experiences across the autism spectrum. Scientists also explored aging in autistic adults, employment challenges and supports, and effective parent-mediated interventions, advancing knowledge that can lead to more personalized supports and stronger communities.
👉 Read the full roundup at link in bio.

In 2025, autism research deepened our understanding of autism—not as a single condition, but as a spectrum of needs and experiences that evolve over a person’s lifetime.

01/24/2026

Parenting experts say that the familiar phrase “be careful” doesn’t always help little ones understand what to do and can even make them tune you out.
Instead, simple language swaps that point out what’s happening or ask questions can help toddlers build awareness, confidence, and problem-solving skills.

A parenting expert has shared three small language swaps parents can make to help toddlers understand better and improve their behaviour

01/23/2026

Easy, fun game with sticky notes and dice. You roll 2 dice and students may either choose the sum of both dice or both of the addends (e.g. 5 and 2, students can do 5 and 2 (if they have both numbers available) or 7- if they can’t do either of their options, they simply can’t go). Blank post-its make mixed groups easy as each post-it represents a target. First to lose all their post-its wins. - Angie, CCC-SLP

01/23/2026

What if reading itself could be easier for dyslexic learners? In this video, Hillary Summerbell breaks down how a new tool transforms traditional linear text into a gentler arc format that helps make reading more accessible and less overwhelming for neurodivergent brains.

Founder of Summerbell Hillary Summerbell discusses how a new tool reshapes traditional linear text into a gentle arc which makes reading feel less overwhelming.

01/22/2026

Family Game Night = Big Benefits!
Research shows that setting aside time for family game nights can strengthen bonds, boost communication and social skills, and even support kids’ emotional well-being and academic success! From shared laughs to strategic thinking and problem-solving, these moments matter more than we think.
👉 Read more: https://www.tribtoday.com/life/2026/01/there-are-some-pretty-big-benefits-to-family-game-nights/


https://www.tribtoday.com/life/2026/01/there-are-some-pretty-big-benefits-to-family-game-nights/

01/21/2026

"Played Yahtzee today, even my middle schoolers loved it! So easy with mixed groups! If you don’t have the game- students can draw “score sheets” and there are Yahtzee dice rollers available for free online" - Angie, CCC-SLP

01/21/2026

AI isn’t just changing work, it’s unlocking strengths many neurodivergent professionals have always had. From reducing cognitive load to boosting confidence, tools like AI Copilot are helping people thrive, not just cope, in the workplace.
Innovation can create more equitable and empowering workplaces for everyone.

AI tools like Copilot are helping neurodivergent professionals reduce cognitive load, build confidence and showcase their strengths at work.

01/20/2026

Spotting early signs that your child might benefit from early intervention isn’t always easy, but getting help at the right time can make a HUGE difference. Watch this quick guide to understand what to look for and how to support your child’s growth and development!

Knowing when your child needs early intervention

01/19/2026

New research shows promising ways to help autistic kids build stronger reading skills. A study found that using a mix of strategies like interactive storytelling, visual supports, and socio‑emotional learning can boost not just comprehension but also confidence and social understanding.

In a groundbreaking study that sheds light on the educational techniques applied to students with Autism, researchers Wang and P**n have evaluated the effectiveness of a multiple strategies approach

01/19/2026

Honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A day to reflect, to serve, and to continue the work of equity and belonging for all.