Autism Included

Autism Included was founded by two sister speech-language pathologists, Ms. Sarah Hamel, who is neurodivergent, and Dr. Stephanie Izzi, who is autistic.  They saw a need to change the way autistic students are supported in classrooms and community settings, and were determined to support radical inclusion without the use of ABA techniques.  Their approach uses autism-informed communication as the foundation for individualized supports and strategies to allow all children to reach their full potential- autism included.

Communication and respect are at the heart of everything we do!  Autism Included provides alternatives to behaviorist-based education programs, and frameworks for the safe and meaningful inclusion of autistic students with a variety of support needs.  We believe in the power of communication, mutual respect for all students' learning styles.  

We are an autistic and neurodivergent-led organization, and we believe positive autistic representation is important.  There is no one experience of autism. At Autism Included, we individualize supports and strategies, offering evidence-based alternatives to ABA-based programs.

We have found success for students who were denied access to AAC.  We work with students who are "not ready for AAC" and find what works for them. We support authentically autistic learning, communication, and connection. Our students go on to self-advocate, communicate, connect, read, participate, and reach their full potential!

Our partnerships include inclusive Montessori programs, AAC summer camp, supportive play groups, and trainings to eliminate seclusion and restraint.  

Donations will support our immersive AAC programming. This service is usually not covered by insurance, and if it is covered is only partially covered, which makes it unaffordable for many families.