Podcasts We’re all tired of hearing superficial self-care recommendations — take a bubble bath, put on a smile, just think happy thoughts! This week, Dr. Patricia Wright, Executive Director at Proof Positive, the Autism Wellbeing Alliance, joins the podcast to talk about real, evidence-based strategies to promote wellbeing. Dr. Wright and Dr. Amato’s uplifting conversation focuses on positive psychology, the skills of happiness, and ways to build strong relationships to better support our autistic students.
Our Guest
Dr. Patricia Wright leads the charge to advance the science of positive psychology and skills of happiness as the Executive Director of Proof Positive, a national non-profit collaborating with schools, autism organizations, and positive psychology leaders to integrate and expand wellbeing programming for autistic individuals and their communities. Applauded as a global leader in autism advocacy, programming and interventions, Patricia brings a track record of success working in management at top autism organizations. Dr. Wright holds a Ph.D. and Master of Public Health from the University of Hawaii.
Our Host
Dr. Wendy Amato is the Chief Academic Officer at Teaching Channel’s parent company, K12 Coalition. Wendy earned her Master’s in Education and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia. She holds an MBA from James Madison University. Wendy began teaching in 1991, has served as a Middle School Administrator, and still teaches at UVA’s School of Education. She has delivered teacher professional development workshops and student leadership workshops in the US and internationally. Wendy and her family live near Charlottesville, Virginia.
Resources for Continued Learning
Learn more about Dr. Wright’s work with Proof Positive and start working toward a better you, and a better community for your autistic students, by visiting their website and joining the Autism Wellbeing Alliance.
In this episode, Dr. Wright shares how impactful the practice of gratitude can be. To start working on a gratitude habit (either by yourself or with your students!) check out Teaching Channel’s downloadable gratitude calendar.
