the know it live it blog

with Carolyn Rivera

What if the problem isn’t the person, but the plan?

As a young student, Carolyn was treated like she was stupid and she believed it. Then she got into a school honored her differences. And she learned how to learn her way! And she now has a Bachelors and Masters and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Carolyn tells us how she navigated the educational world from high school through graduate school. She never gave up when the traditional school system failed her and her learning differences, and she gave no indication that she will give up on the families she serves! In this episode of Know It, It, Laura Hansen Breksa sits down with board-certified behavior analyst Carolyn Rivera for a powerful conversation about compassionate care, autism, and what it truly means to meet people where they are. She helps families figure out plans to lessen the likelihood of meltdowns and increase the likelihood of peaceful days.

Drawing from her personal journey, professional experience, and deep empathy, Carolyn shares how learning history and environment shape behavior, why plans must work even on our worst days, and how progress looks different for everyone.

This episode is a moving reminder that people are not problems to be fixed—they are humans to be understood, supported, and seen.

#CompassionateCare #AutismAwareness #Empathy #AutismCommunity #AutismMom #AutismDad #AutismParenting

Get to know Carolyn: Carolyn Rivera is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) committed to compassionate, family-centered care. A California native now living in Texas, she brings a thoughtful, values-driven approach to her work, with a focus on meeting individuals and families where they are and honoring what matters most to them. Her faith is an important grounding influence in her life and informs her commitment to dignity, empathy, and purposeful support. Carolyn is a wife, a proud pet mom, and believes meaningful progress begins with understanding, respect, and goals that align with each family’s priorities.

https://www.autism-foundation.org/

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