Celebrating Neurodiversity with Autism & Sleep Discussion

Beth Malow, MD, MS, is a professor of Neurology and Pediatrics within the Vanderbilt Sleep Division. She holds the Burry Endowed Chair in Cognitive Childhood Development. Dr. Malow is board certified in neurology and sleep medicine, and is the author of Solving Sleep Problems in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Guide for Frazzled Families. She conducts research in sleep and autism, with an emphasis on melatonin and behavioral treatments for sleep.

Melisa Moore, PhD, is the author of The Good Sleep Guide for Neurodivergent Kids. A clinical psychologist board certified in behavioral sleep medicine, she currently works for the Sleep Center at Rady Children’s Health San Diego helping to develop their behavioral sleep medicine program. She also has a practice in the Los Angeles area working with children, teens, and young adults across the country for a variety of sleep and mood issues, specializing in neurodiversity. Visit her online at http://www.DrMelisaMoore.com.

Matthew Horsnell is a father of three, amateur strength athlete, and science nerd who incorporates invertebrate fossils into rock sculptures. He was diagnosed with type 1 narcolepsy with cataplexy in his mid 20s, and is an incredible advocate in the sleep community, focusing on narcolepsy and mental health awareness and legislative efforts.

Lizzy Terry is a lifelong ‘Hoosier’ and Indiana University graduate who was diagnosed with type 1 narcolepsy with cataplexy while in college. Now a recreational therapist with many crossovers and connections to those on the spectrum, Lizzy is a leader in social connectedness who uses insights gathered from lived experience to inform her practice and advocate for those living with sleep disorders and other chronic or disabling conditions.

Gary Johnson is a cat dad, hiking enthusiast, hockey fan, and music lover who spends as much time as possible riding roller coasters. He has had significant challenges with sleep throughout his life, which he recognized as being connected to autism in his early 40s. He is married to Lauren Oglesby, and together they share their experiences to help others find resources and feel less alone in navigating sleep issues.

Lauren Oglesby, MPH, is Project Sleep’s Programs Manager and Gary’s partner of 11 years. Lauren’s professional experience and connections gained through helping people learn to self-advocate enabled them to find resources and support for their own family, and they share their perspective to emphasize the importance of flexibility and persistence in finding what works.