MELISSA KNOPP, M.Sed, BCBA
Melissa's journey into autism and nonspeaking connection began at just 17 years old while working at a summer camp. From the first day, she encountered an experience that would shape her path.
the history behind what inspires us
PART 1
We knew nothing.
In the early 20th century, there was almost no understanding of neuro-differences like autism.
Then we started to learn a little.
Autism was identified in 1943 primarily as a social and behavioral disorder. By the 1970s, some support was offered. It focused on outward behavior, missed fundamental neurological pieces, and was even harmful at times.
PART 2
the neurodiversity movement.
In the late 1990s, the Neurodiversity Movement began try to change things. It spread more awareness for natural differences and the need for more respectful care.
Autism affects motor.
In the early 2000s, research began confirming that motor differences are central to autism and nonspeaking people, and not challenges in behavior or intelligence.
PART 3
All about apraxia.
Apraxia affects the ability to plan and coordinate movement—even when someone fully understands what they want to do. It impacts communication and daily life, and is a part of autism and neuro-differences.
What does it mean?
Many autistic and nonspeaking people experience a disconnect between their thoughts and their body’s ability to respond. This means that outward behavior does not equal understanding. Nonspeaking does not equal nonthinking.
PART 4
A world divided.
This new understanding changed a lot, but not everything. People didn’t know how to integrate it. Many still don’t. The field became divided: traditional methods on one side, emerging insights on the other.
A hope for harmony.
New strategies, support and techniques are growing. They are informed by the emerging research, as well as the lived-experiences of autistic and neuro-different people themselves. Reshaping things for everyone will take time and understanding.
PART 5
Today.
More people are listening.
More systems are adapting.
Minds Unstuck is part of this shift.
We’re proud to be in a community that is pushing for meaningful change.
We are grateful to all of the autistic and nonspeaking individuals who are leading the way by sharing their voices with us so we can learn to do better, together.
WHAT WE DO AND HOW WE DO IT MATTERS.