News

Features in the Media

In the news |

Becoming the Person I Once Needed

Diagnosed with autism at 11, Ben Pfingston, senior research and data analyst at Catalight, reflects on how internalized stigma shaped his life. Through psychology and autism research, he found healing and purpose – to be who he needed and help others feel seen and valued.

In the news |

Making Summer Travel Easier: Helpful Tips for Autism Families

Catalight Vice President of Clinical Impact Brianna Fitchett shares strategies for easy travel and routine disruptions as children with autism transition into summer. This article highlights how planning and familiar comforts can turn disruptions into chances for growth.

In the news |

Using Common Sense to Weigh the Pros and Cons of Vaccination

In an op-ed about how vaccine benefits far outweigh perceived risks, Col. Eric Flake, M.D., interviews Catalight Chief Clinical Officer Doreen Samelson, Ed.D. – who shares the personal story of her son’s Rubella-related disabilities to illustrate the cost of skipping vaccines.

In the news |

Autism, Rubella and the Rising Fear of Vaccines

Catalight Chief Clinical Officer Doreen Samelson, Ed.D., shares a personal story about her son, who was exposed to rubella from his birth mother in utero. Once a common illness, rubella is now rare in the United States because of vaccines but Dr. Samelson is concerned that more parents are skipping vaccines due false belief that they cause autism.

White paper |

AI Solutions for Autism Care

Artificial intelligence (AI) is demonstrating promising applications in autism early diagnosis, augmenting clinical workflows and facilitating communication for people with autism.

In the news |

“Nothing About Us Without Us” Leaves Voices Out

In “Autism Spectrum News,” Doreen Samelson, Ed.D., reflects on the philosophy of “nothing about us without us” within the autism community, emphasizing the importance of fully representing those who cannot communicate their needs. She further advocates for expanding the phrase to include parents and caregivers of individuals with profound autism.

In the news |

Empowering Families Through Caregiver-Led Interventions

In an article for the Organization for Autism Research (OAR), Chief Clinical Officer Doreen Samelson, Ed.D., MSCP, details the positive effects of caregiver-led interventions. Dr. Samelson writes how parents can incorporate strategies into daily routines to support their child’s development, build confidence and find tailored solutions – all while preserving quality family time.

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