I am Erica Settino, a late-diagnosed Autistic/ADHDer, and proud mother of an Autistic/ADHD/PDAer. I am also a published author, artist, advocate and activist, utilizing my eclectic educational background, along with my lived-experience as a neuroqueer individual, to consult and collaborate with, as well as support educators, therapists, and families working with neuroqueer persons and groups to create a more inclusive, equitable, and affirming approach when supporting neuroqueer individuals. As well as offer support to neuroqueer individuals themselves. I hold a BA in Psychology: Human Growth and Development, as well an MFA in Creative Writing. Along with certification as a yoga and meditation teacher with over twenty years experience teaching both children and adults, and as a Mindful Arts Facilitator for both children and adults, with extensive ongoing training in Expressive Arts Therapy and Facilitation. Prior to receiving my diagnoses at the age of forty-one, I worked in various positions of support for neuroqueer children and their families, including office manager and administrative assistant for a large speech and language practice, respite worker, and behavioral technician. Where I saw firsthand how traditional therapeutic techniques and approaches, despite being well-meaning, often have devastating consequences for individuals seeking support. Which became even more abundantly clear as I took on the role of my young son’s main advocate and educator. Through this role, I have acquired much experience navigating the traditional school setting, medical and therapeutic settings, and specific to NYS and OPWDD, as an advocate for a minor child. I have created this collective as a means to share my unique approach and practices to validating, accommodating, supporting, and empowering ourselves and our neuroqueer community. Which I hope will provide a safe space in which we can each express ourselves without fear of criticism, judgment, and neurotypical mandates and expectations.