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The Secret Language of Autism cover

  • eBook Edition
    • 978-1-03-834575-2
    • epub, pdf files
  • Paperback Edition
    • 978-1-03-834573-8
    • 5.5 x 8.5 inches
    • Standard Color interior
    • 246 pages
  • Hardcover Edition
    • 978-1-03-834574-5
    • 5.5 x 8.5 inches
    • Standard Color interior
    • 246 pages
  • Keywords
    • expressive arts therapy,
    • neurodivergent affirming,
    • nonverbal autism,
    • inclusive education,
    • creative communication,
    • emotional resilience,
    • sensory strategies

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The Secret Language of Autism
Fostering Presence-Based Connection Through Creative Congruence Time (CCT) and Expressive Arts
by Ellen Eun Young Yang


The Secret Language of Autism introduces a compassionate, creative approach to supporting inclusive care of autistic and neurodiverse individuals through Creative Congruence Time (CCT). Centred on presence, emotional attunement, and expressive arts, CCT offers a bridge of connection, fostering a path for social–emotional development, greater resilience, creativity and joy.   Drawing from both therapeutic expertise and lived experience, Ellen Eun Young Yang brings together conceptual frameworks, personal reflections, and practical, hands-on strategies for caregivers, educators, therapists, and families. Her work teaches us how to cultivate responsive and meaningful interactions that honour each individual's unique way of being.  Yang’s book includes twenty-one adaptable practices—including movement, music, visual art, creative writing, and theatrical play. It also explores how presence-based, and neurodiversity-affirming expressive arts practices foster connection and well-being by strengthening relationships and supporting autistic and neurodiverse individuals.


“The structure of the book is thoughtful and accessible, offering foundational principles for creating safe, respectful, and affirming relationships that honour diverse learning styles, sensory needs, and communication preferences.” —Margo Fuchs Knill, Ph.D. Psychology Professor, Founding Dean & Core Faculty of the European Graduate School EGS “The Secret Languages of Autism is an informative and engaging read. Ellen’s thoughtful presentation of methodologies and their therapeutic applications offers a rich, thought-provoking resource for families, para-professionals, and professionals alike.” —Karin Terado, Head of Adult Programs (Retired), PALS Adult Services Society


Ellen Eun Young Yang photo

Ellen Eun Young Yang, PhD(c), RCC, RCC-ACS, RCS, REAT Ellen is a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Expressive Arts Therapist, educator, and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals and people of all ages. She integrates trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally responsive care, shaped by her lived experiences with intergenerational trauma, gender-based cultural challenges, and immigration from South Korea to Canada. Ellen is the founder of Therapy Through Arts (TTA) and the creator of Creative Congruence Time (CCT), a presence-based expressive arts approach that fosters meaningful connection, co-regulation, and emotional processing. Her areas of expertise include:(1) Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and low self-esteem, (2) Autism and other neurodiversity (3) Emotional support and behaviour change, (4) Self-growth, empowerment, and well-being, (5) Clinical supervision. More info: http://www.therapythrougharts.com


Contributors

Author
Ellen Eun Young Yang
Cover Design by
Jeong Young Ho


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