Dates:September 11th, 5:30-6:30 PMSeptember 18th, 5:30-6:30 PMSeptember 25th, 5:30-6:30 PMOctober 2nd, 5:30-6:30 PMThis session is for ADOLESCENTS/ADULTS ages 12 and up.The ACCESS Communication Support Training is a four-week program designed specifically for families who want to better understand and support nonspeaking, minimally speaking, and unreliably speaking autistic individuals. Our approach is rooted in the belief that every person has the capacity for communication when given the right support and tools.Why We Do ThisMany nonspeaking autistic individuals experience apraxia —a motor planning difference that makes it difficult for the brain and body to coordinate the precise movements required for reliable speech and movement. This is not a lack of intelligence or understanding; it is a movement disability. Traditional behavior-based approaches often misinterpret these struggles as noncompliance, rather than recognizing them as genuine motor challenges. Traditional Special Education approaches often misinterpret the person's capacity for language to learn or communicate.At ACCESS, we help families shift their perspective from “behavior management” to movement-based communication support. By addressing the sensory-motor differences that underlie apraxia, families can begin to see their loved one’s true competence and provide pathways for authentic expression.What Families Will LearnOver four weeks, participants will:Understand Apraxia and Motor Differences – Learn why speech isn’t always possible and how motor planning challenges impact communication.Presume Competence – Discover the power of approaching your loved one as capable and intelligent, regardless of their ability to speak.Build Supportive Partnerships – Practice co-regulation strategies and develop the skills to be an effective Communication/Regulation Partner (CRP).Get Started with Communication Tools – Receive hands-on training in Communication Support Training introducing spelling/typing through purposeful pointing at choices and letters as reliable ways to communicate.Adopt the ACCESS Philosophy – Learn how mutual respect and co-regulation lay the foundation, autonomy, and trust lay the foundation for reliable communication, motor learning, and ultimately autonomy for the nonspeaking child or adult.Program StructureFormat: 4 weekly sessions, with interactive lessons, practice, and reflectionWho It’s For: Parents, siblings, caregivers, and anyone supporting nonspeaking autistic individuals. The nonspeaker should attend too.Outcome: Families leave equipped with both the mindset and practical tools to begin a communication journey built on trust, respect, and movement-based understanding✨ This training is not just about teaching methods—it’s about transforming the way families view communication and ability, unlocking opportunities for connection, learning, and self-expression.

Every Voice Deserves to Be Heard!At Optimal Rhythms, Inc. (DBA Optimal ACCESS), we believe in the power of community to create lasting change.Today, we are thrilled to launch our Communication Matters Campaign - a powerful initiative supporting those who care for vulnerable children and families affected by nonspeaking autism. This includes parents, providers, case managers, first responders, and medical professionals.BECOME A MISSION PARTNER!We are looking for 50 mission partners to offer monthly donations.Your commitment provides life-changing support. Each dollar helps us distribute communication support kits and provide access to our Rethinking Autism Support Training to individuals in need of continuing education and practical tools to build reliable text-based communication. Every person we train is a step towards bringing more children and adults out of their silence - and bringing hope to their families.Make your 2026 Pledge Now:Commit to $25 / month - Get a thank you card written by an ACCESS StudentCommit to $50 / month - Get a Rethink Autism Gift PackCommit to $100 / month - Get a Consultation Session with Founder, Casey DePriestCommit to $200 / month - Get a Rethink Autism Gift Pack and a Consultation Session with Founder, Casey DePriestCommit to $500 / month - Get a Rethink Autism Gift Pack and a Monthly Consultation Session with Founder, Casey DePriestEvery donation, regardless of size, helps us build a stronger, more compassionate community. We look forward to thanking our Mission Partners and celebrating a successful campaign at our 2026 Rethinking Autism Conference on March 19-20, so we need your help now to meet our goal. The need is great, but together, we can make a powerful impact.With gratitude,Casey DePriest, Founder / CEOOptimal Rhythms, Inc. (DBA Optimal ACCESS)P.S. Early supporters like you inspire others to give. Thank you for being a catalyst for change!