What does DIRFloortime® actually feel like from the perspective of an autistic person?
In this second episode of Rethinking Autism Therapy, Daria Brown is joined by autistic musician Cheyenne Erikson to explore what it was like growing up with situational mutism, anxiety, and an undiagnosed autistic neurotype, and how a relationship-based, developmental approach helped her feel understood and supported.
Cheyenne shares her personal journey from an early diagnosis of situational mutism to discovering her autistic identity as a young adult.
Together, she and Daria discuss how DIRFloortime's emphasis on relationships, individual differences, play, and emotional connection contrasts with more directive or compliance-based approaches. Through stories from childhood, teaching, parenting, and clinical practice, they illustrate how following a child's lead, presuming competence, and supporting regulation can foster authentic communication and growth.
The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the world through a neurodivergent lens, recognizing the many ways children communicate, and creating safe opportunities for exploration, play, and emotional expression. Listeners will gain insight into how DIRFloortime® supports not only autistic children, but meaningful relationships across the lifespan.
Learn more:
🌐 Cheyenne Erikson: https://www.cheyennepaige.com/
📸 Instagram: @cheyennepaigemusic
📖 Situational Mutism: https://reframingautism.org.au/all-about-situational-mutism-a-guide-for-allies/
🗂️ Cheyenne's SLP mother's Situational Mutism cards: https://www.bjoremspeech.com/en-ca/products/dir%C2%AE-sm-a-developmental-approach-to-selective-mutism-intervention
Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.
🎧 Rethinking Autism Therapy is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com
🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com
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