MHNRN | Apple Podcasts | Spreaker | Episode #10

Hey listeners, Dr. Mary here! I am so excited about today’s episode because we have a special guest and dear friend, Dr. Christine Le. She is an expert in autism and recently published a book called Autism Rules.

In this episode, we dive into her journey, her approach to working with individuals on the spectrum, and the incredible insights she shares in her book. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone looking to understand autism better, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Let’s dive in!

Dr. Christine Le’s Journey into Autism Specialization

[00:00:00] Dr. Christine Le shares her unconventional path to specializing in autism. She began her career working in a London home for refugee children, which ignited her passion for mental health. Despite an initial background in business, this experience led her to pursue a doctorate in psychology from NYU. In 1999, she started working with individuals on the autism spectrum in various settings, including schools, homes, and communities.

[00:05:30] Dr. Le recounts how a colleague’s confidence in her abilities led her to work with children with autism, despite her initial reservations. This opportunity revealed her talent for understanding and connecting with individuals on the spectrum, viewing autism as a unique culture to be understood and appreciated.

Insights from Autism Rules: Bridging Neurodiverse and Neurotypical Worlds

[00:12:45] Dr. Le discusses the inspiration behind her book, Autism Rules. Encouraged by a client who benefited from her guidance, she realized the need to share her knowledge with a broader audience. The book aims to provide practical advice for individuals with autism and those who support them, fostering mutual understanding between neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals.

[00:20:10] A unique feature of the book is the inclusion of “autistic penguins” cartoons. These illustrations depict common social scenarios from an autistic perspective, highlighting the challenges faced and offering strategies to navigate them. Dr. Le emphasizes that the goal is not to change individuals with autism but to provide them with tools to understand and engage with the neurotypical world while celebrating their unique perspectives.

[00:35:50] Dr. Le shares her hope that readers of Autism Rules—both autistic and neurotypical—gain a deeper understanding of each other’s experiences. She encourages open communication and mutual adaptation, recognizing that both perspectives offer valuable insights.

Dr Mary hopes to support and inspire with her guest, Dr Christine Le

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Christine Le offers a compassionate and insightful perspective on autism. Her work emphasizes the importance of understanding, communication, and celebration of neurodiversity.

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HEY SIS!

As a devoted pediatrician, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders, my focus is on guiding and supporting families who have received an autism or ADHD diagnosis.

I am a PCCI trained life and leadership coach.

– Dr Mary