Shining a Light on the Autism Spectrum ─ Experiences and Aspirations of Adults

Produced in conjunction with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Australia’s largest provider of services with people on the autism spectrum, this new text explores the experiences, needs and aspirations of adults on the spectrum. The volume utilises the structure of a recent survey (the only one of its type in Australia and one of few conducted internationally) and presents data from the study with contributions from adults on the spectrum to illustrate the findings with first person accounts and case studies. By drawing on these unique experiences, this valuable resource is presented in a way that will be both engaging and accessible for a wide range of readers.

Debra Costley, PhD, is National Director of Aspect Practice at Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) with responsibility for strategic leadership of research and development of national models for sharing Aspect evidence informed practice. She is a researcher and special educator with thirty years of experience in special education teaching, consultancy and research.

Susanna Baldwin, BSc, MSc, is a former Research Officer at Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), where her role centred on planning, supporting and implementing research and evaluation for the continuous improvement of Aspect services. She was part of the team that designed and carried out the inaugural We Belong study, and has co-authored two peer-reviewed journal articles based on the findings.

Susan Bruck, PhD, is the Aspect Practice Research Officer, Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect). She is an Aspect Practice Specialist and is responsible for undertaking evidence-informed research and disseminating findings. Susan is a researcher and educator with extensive experience in the not-for-profit and tertiary education sectors.

Kaaren Haas BSc, MA, is a Research Assistant at Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) with responsibility for assisting with design, implementation and reporting of research and evaluation projects at Aspect.? She has extensive prior experience in corporate communications and public policy, and is the mother of a young adult on the autism spectrum.

Kerry Ritzrow, BA, is the Research and Administration Assistant at Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) with responsibility for coordinating the dissemination of Aspect evidence informed practice through Aspect Practice workshops and consultancies. She is also a trained counsellor and professional supervisor.