You belong.

About Me, River

Welcome,

I’m a Queer, Autistic self-advocate who loves celebrating and sharing my Autistic Culture!

If you’re allistic, you probably want to know:

  • I graduated from Arizona State University with a 4.0 in Liberal Studies.  My focus was on cultural anthropology, social work, and psychology.

  • I’ve earned certifications in leading mental health support groups and yoga instruction, and I have completed fifty hours of training to support victims of domestic violence.

  • I’m the Content Manager for The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosted by Matt Lowry, LPP and Angela Lauria the “Linguistic Autistic.”

  • I volunteer with a local non-profit that is founded by and led by Neurodivergent adults: Neurodiverse Network. I assist in education, outreach, and writing grant proposals, as well as lead an online support group.

  • I have a formal diagnosis identification from a qualified neuropsychologist.

If you’re Autistic, you might want to know:

  • My wonderful Autistic wife and I foster, rehabilitate, and find forever homes for abandoned cats.

  • I read about a book a week and I’ve read or listened to every Harry Potter book at least eight times.

  • I love museums, walking tours, and conservatories.

  • I’m proficient (working towards fluency) in ASL (American Sign Language).

  • I’m a good baker, and I’ll bring homemade soft pretzels if you invite me over.

  • My most academic SPIN (SPecial INterest) is cultural anthropology.

  • My longest running and dearest SPIN is the art of film and television (especially sci-fi).

  • My SPINs that come and go are secular Buddhist philosophy and U.S. politics.

  • My favorite short-lived SPIN was learning to sew my own clothes.

I created this website because I saw a need in my community.  Questioning and newly identified Autistics often experience a lot of confusion and can easily be disheartened by the ableist information that dominates the internet.  I built Autistic Studies to be an affirming place where we can come to learn about our shared heritage and culture while feeling validated and celebrated for who we are. 

Stay golden,

— River (she/they)