In this deeply affirming episode, we sit down with Mariam Shapera, mother of three, part-time family doctor, and author of two beautifully illustrated children’s books inspired by her autistic son.
Mariam shares her family’s journey from deficit-based therapies to discovering Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and the neurodiversity paradigm.
She offers invaluable insights into how children who are gestalt language processors experience communication - and what families, therapists, and schools can do to support connection over compliance.
From debunking common myths to explaining why scripting and echolalia are valid communication methods, this episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone committed to creating communication-affirming environments for neurodivergent children.
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KEY TAKEAWAYS 👇
🧠 GLP is a valid, natural way to learn language, often through scripts, phrases, and chunks rather than individual words.
🧠 Scripting is communication, not behaviour to be extinguished. Mariam explains how echolalia is often rich with meaning.
🧠 Affirming therapy starts with connection, not correction. Therapists should follow the child’s interests, regulate the nervous system, and never force compliance.
🧠 Speech is not superior to other forms of communication. AAC, sign language, and visuals all help reduce frustration and honour the child’s needs.
🧠 Schools must adapt, not the child. Teachers and support staff need training in GLP and should collaborate with families to ensure meaningful goals and affirming approaches.
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ABOUT THE HOST 👇
Laetitia Andrac (Autistic & ADHDer) is an award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker, and podcast host.
She is the bestselling author of Light It: How to Trust Your Intuition and Build a Thriving Business. With over 15 years of experience in consulting, strategy, and innovation, Laetitia has worked with industry leaders like Deloitte and Telstra.
Inspired by my journey as a neurodivergent parent, she co-founded Understanding Zoe, an AI-driven solution dedicated to supporting caregivers of neurodivergent children.
Her passion is creating a more neuroinclusive world, where everyone can thrive—whether in their homes, communities, or workplaces.
ABOUT THE GUEST 👇
Mariam Shapera is a part-time family doctor and mum of three. Her middle child, Joe, is autistic and the inspiration behind her advocacy, education, and writing.
Through her lived experience and deep dive into the world of Gestalt Language Processing, Mariam has become a trusted voice for families navigating autism with a strengths-based lens.
She’s the author of two children’s books that celebrate neurodiversity and autistic joy, and she regularly shares accessible, neuroaffirming content on Instagram and through her website.
📸 Instagram: @mariamshaperatales