Neurotypical Support Guide 

Our general events are for Autistic adults only, but neurotypical (people who are not Autistic) family, friends, or support workers are welcome to accompany an individual who has high-support needs! Just please be sure to understand the following guidelines:

Please refrain from interacting with other attendees.

Our community is a safe space for Autistic individuals to connect, and some members may feel uncomfortable with the presence of neurotypicals in our space. While it's completely fine to engage with any member who approaches you, we kindly request that during our events you maintain a support role and not participate in group activities. You are welcome to quietly sit/walk behind the member you’re accompanying, or wait outside the room during the event.

Understand that we are a volunteer run organization.

All of our event facilitators and assistants are volunteers who are fellow Autistic members of our group. We are not trained professionals and cannot assist any members with specific needs. If the member you’re accompanying needs specific ongoing support, please be sure to stay with them during the event.

Please reach out to us in advance before attending.

This allows us to better prepare, work out specific accommodations, and communicate more details about the event to you to make their experience better! Also, know that not all events are going to be a great fit: They might better enjoy a quiet arts and craft event as opposed to a large meetup, or maybe they’d like one of our PAUSE events. If you reach out we can help to see what might be the best fit.

You can reach out by messaging the host on meetup before an event, or emailing us at info@autisticadultsnyc.org