Life on the Bridge

Following her appearance on the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum, author Kaelynn Partlow, RBT, amplified her social media reach, establishing herself as an influential voice in autism understanding and actionable advocacy. Over ten years providing clinical autism services through Project Hope Foundation, she has worked with clients spanning different ages and vastly differing levels of ability. Partlow lives in South Carolina with two supportive roommates and her Labrador, Finn.

“Such a great read. I’m so happy Kaelynn has chosen to share her knowledge by writing this book, packed full of insights, advice, and personal experience. Life on the Bridge reminds us that representation matters, that diversity within communities is something to be celebrated rather than homogenized, and that the courage to be vulnerable in service of others is one of the most generous gifts a person can offer. Her advocacy doesn't demand that people change their entire worldview overnight. Instead, it invites them to consider new perspectives, to question their assumptions, and to embrace the beautiful complexity of neurodivergent lives.” — Cian O’Clery, Co-creator, Showrunner, & Director of Love on the Spectrum (from the Introduction)"Loved Kaelynn Partlow's information on ambiguity and communication. She gives lots of practical pointers on how to be more direct and specific when talking to autistic individuals. Vague, open ended questions are not effective communication." — Temple Grandin, New York Times bestselling author of Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions“Partlow blends clinical expertise with her lived experience for this clear-eyed debut guide to understanding autism . . . The result is a compassionate, pragmatic resource.” — Publishers Weekly"Partlow gives practical advice and tackles today’s thorniest issues. The book she was never supposed to be able to write is a must-read for anyone eager to understand autism better. As a rising star in the field, Partlow is poised to become this generation’s Temple Grandin." — Erin R. Hahn, Ph.D., Department Chair and Professor of Psychology, Furman University"In Life on the Bridge, Kaelynn Partlow provides a unique perspective on autism as an individual who provides services to individuals with autism and who also has autism herself. Her insights into the world of autism provide both a common sense approach and reveal a wisdom well beyond her years. Her analogies and practical recommendations should be read by parents and family members with a loved one on the autism spectrum, as well as by all healthcare workers serving those with autism and anyone who wants to make the world a better place for us all." — Steven A. Skinner, M.D., President and CEO of the Greenwood Genetic Center"Kaelynn Partlow beautifully chronicles her journey with autism, moving the reader from empathy to change. Her honest storytelling and practical recommendations have transformed the way our team supports and empowers our students who are on the autism spectrum. Life on the Bridge is a must-read and a call to action." — Stephanie Seay, Assistant Principal Jesse Boyd Elementary, SC Teacher of the Year"From a history in family counseling, I know everyone is going to want to get their hands on this book. It contains a wealth of helpful tips for anyone who interacts with an autistic person Analysis from a unique perspective will benefit parents and clinicians alike. Partlow's view is unlike any other, applying immense value from having lived on the same developmental ladder as her clients. Her view is unlike that of any other author, and within these pages she has many lessons to teach us all. You will want to hear what she has to say!" — Amanda J Gerding, LMSW, Clinical Social Work Therapist and CEO of Lillys Counseling