Building Awareness of Autism and Neurodiversity

Originally from East Fishkill, New York, Lyndsey earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in December of 2022 from St. John’s University, although initially she had planned to major in mass communication. However, she found herself drawn to the field after taking an introductory psychology course.

Lyndsey’s interest in working with children, particularly those with autism and neurodevelopmental challenges, began during the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, she started working as a behavioral therapist, providing virtual Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services for autistic individuals/individuals with autism, a form of therapy that focuses on increasing positive behaviors, communication, social interactions, and daily living skills. The experience solidified her interest in child psychology and supporting youth with neurodevelopmental disorders.

When it came time to choose a doctoral program, Lyndsey discovered Touro’s newly launched PsyD program in Clinical Psychology. With a unique health emphasis and a strong focus on the intersection between physical and mental health, the program stood out among other options.

“I was researching programs and saw that Touro’s PsyD program was just starting,” she said. “I sought out more information, and from there, everything fell into place. The health emphasis was really appealing—there are very few PsyD programs in New York City, and none that emphasize healthcare integration like Touro does.”

Now in the third year of the five-year program, Lyndsey said the faculty has been extremely supportive throughout her journey, especially her advisor, Dr. Emily Winter. She also appreciates that as a member of the first class, she and her classmates have had a hand in making the program what it is today.

“Like any growing program, there have been challenges along the way. However, with an incredible team and strong support, we have worked together to strengthen and enhance the program with each cohort.”

A Passion for Autism Advocacy

Lyndsey’s commitment to autism advocacy has been at the center of her academic and professional achievements. She is currently an extern trainee at the Rebecca School in Manhattan, an institution dedicated to supporting children with neurodevelopmental disorders. There, she applies the DIR (Developmental, Individual-differences, and Relationship-based) Floortime® approach—a play-based, relationship-driven intervention designed to foster developmental growth in children with autism. She also runs group sessions and assists with psychological testing.

“A major part of my work is helping children regulate their emotions and engage in meaningful interactions,” she said. “The DIRFloortime® model is all about meeting children where they are and supporting their unique developmental journey.”

In addition to her hands-on work, Lyndsey is actively contributing to autism research and advocacy. She recently co-authored an article on DIRFloortime, which has been accepted for publication in the NASP Communiqué, a peer-reviewed newsletter for school psychologists.

“The article is about raising awareness for alternative interventions for autism,” she said. “DIRFloortime isn’t as well-known as other approaches, but it can be incredibly effective. My goal is to expand the conversation around autism interventions and promote a strengths-based perspective.”

Her dissertation will focus on a program evaluation of the Rebecca School, using parent and staff surveys, progress report data, and other measures to assess the effectiveness of DIRFloortime.

“I want to show the psychology world how impactful this school and approach are,” she said. “We need more strengths-based models in autism care.”

Finding Balance

Beyond her doctoral studies and externship, Lyndsey also works as a facilitator for Charlie Health, a virtual group therapy company that provides support for adolescents and young adults. She describes her schedule as “chaotic but fulfilling.”

When she does find time to relax, she enjoys going to the gym, spending time with her two beloved cats, Rainy and Rosie, and watching true crime documentaries.

“I don’t have a ton of free time,” she said, “but when I do, I love just unwinding with my cats and a good documentary.”

Looking Ahead

Set to graduate in 2027, Lyndsey envisions a future in which she continues her advocacy alongside neurodivergent individuals, whether through research, clinical practice, or a combination of both.

“I would love to open my own practice or work in a school setting,” she said. “But most importantly, I want to continue expanding knowledge and awareness around autism and neurodiversity.”

In addition to her work in neurodiversity, Lyndsey is passionate about exploring the health aspects of autism, including co-occurring conditions and the intersection of physical and mental health in neurodivergent individuals.

She said that her experiences at Touro’s PsyD program have provided her with the foundation and confidence to pursue these goals.

“Touro has given me the opportunity to be part of something new and innovative,” she said. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me."