Resilience Coaching Collective

Unmasking Autism: The Reality of Masking and it’s Impact

Maribel C. Stikeleather, M. Ed., BCBA, QBA, LBA Season 1 Episode 3

Autism Awareness Month (2025): Launching of Spectrum Speaks

Episode Title: Unmasking Autism: The Reality of Masking and Its Impact

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, this special episode of Coaching for Change dives into a powerful and often overlooked topic: masking—the act of camouflaging or suppressing one’s autistic traits to fit in with societal expectations.

Join keynote speaker Aaron Freed, a neurodivergent writer with Behavioral Teaching Solutions, as he shares his lived experiences and insights on the emotional toll, psychological impact, and social pressure that come with masking.

Whether you’re autistic, a family member, an educator, or a professional, this episode aims to deepen your understanding and compassion—and encourage us all to advocate for authenticity, inclusion, and support over conformity.

Topics covered:

• What is masking, and why do autistic individuals do it?

• The emotional and mental health impact of masking

• How to create safe, affirming spaces where autistic people can thrive as their full selves

• Why breaking barriers begins with awareness and acceptance

 Tune in and join this conversation that supports neurodiversity, visibility, and change.

This episode is eligible for 1 Continuing Education Unit (CEU) for BACB or QABA.

Get 1 CEU for this episode: Pay $9.99 using this link. After payment, you will receive a questionnaire to complete to receive your CEU certificate. 

Thank you for your support!

#AutismAwareness #UnmaskingAutism #Neurodiversity #CoachingForChange #InclusionMatters #BehavioralTeachingSolutions #BreakingBarriers #April2026


Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

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Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

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Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

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Resilience Coaching Collective

Maribel C. Stikeleather, M. Ed., BCBA, QBA, LBA