Marlize Labuschagne-Educational Psychologist

A valuable share from my colleague Sandra Crous Educational Psychologist . What looks like depression might not actually be depression. Burnout is a very real thing for neurodivergent people because it often takes SO MUCH effort to navigate a world that is not made for your wiring.

I’ve had two long days! Yesterday was a 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. workday, and today is looking pretty much the same (thank goodness for coffee breaks ☕).

When I climbed into the car to drive home from the office, I was delighted to find this little piece of magic hiding in the cup holder. Did I leave it there? Is it my husband’s? Did the energy fairies decide to spoil me? Who knows! But right now, I feel like I’m winning at life.

What are the small things that put a smile on your face after a long day?

Emile and I were in the same group when I completed my first Honours Degree (Learning Support) at the University of Pretoria. Emile is not only an example of resilience through challenges, but also a representative of, and a tireless advocate for the inclusion and support of autistic individuals.

As followers of my page, you will know that autism is very close to my heart, both because of my clients and people in my inner circle. Despite our inclusive constitution, they still face so many challenges.

Please take a moment to read this post and add your voice to this movement.

For years, I have carried a small blue book with me in my car everywhere I go.

To most people, it is just a book.

But to me, it became a weapon for inclusion.

Whenever people questioned autism, doubted our abilities, misunderstood our behaviours (Sammi's and mine), or asked why reasonable accommodation matters, I would open that little blue book and explain what it means to create a neuro-affirming society. I would explain why accessibility is not “special treatment,” but a human right.

As an autistic adult, and now representing South Africa on international disability platforms, including engagements connected to the Commonwealth and the United Nations, I have had the opportunity to hear discussions from countries such as Australia, New Zealand and other First World countries about something called a *National Autism Strategy*.

And honestly…

You cannot believe how advanced some of these discussions are.

These countries are discussing:
• Inclusive education
• Employment opportunities
• Mental health support
• Early intervention
• Adult autism services
• Support for non-speaking autistic individuals
• Independent living
• Sensory-friendly public spaces
• Accessibility policies
• Family support
• Research
• Training for teachers, police, and healthcare workers
• Neuro-affirming practices across society

Not because autistic people are “broken.”

But because autistic people deserve dignity, inclusion, support, and equal opportunities.

And then I ask myself…

What about us here in South Africa

What about the autistic child in a rural village with no access to diagnosis or support?

What about the autistic university student struggling silently?

What about autistic adults without employment opportunities?

What about families fighting every single day just to be heard?

What about non-speaking autistic people whose voices are still ignored?

I am no longer willing to wait.

Today, I am officially calling on South Africans to stand together and support the development of a National Autism Strategy for South Africa.

A strategy that is aligned with the UNCRPD.
A strategy that listens to autistic voices.
A strategy that creates accountability.
A strategy that ensures that NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND.

This is bigger than awareness.

This is about action.
This is about rights.
This is about humanity.

Please stand with us.
Please sign the petition.
Please help us push government to recognise the urgent need for a National Autism Strategy in South Africa.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfCz5wNLFYSvf-dMN2L2jrFDFvOatZiWMVpij2tmSWkEW85Aw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

Because every autistic life has value.

We need to make a difference because autism rights cannot wait!












Good Things Guy Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Autism South Africa Action in Autism SADA - South African Disability Alliance United Nations National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities SABC News eNCAnews United Nations

Our practice is looking for an OT. Please contact Chantelle if you are interested.

*Occupational Therapist Position – Pretoria East*
Chantelle Snyman Occupational Therapists | Start: June 2026

*Role* :
Provide client-centred OT services across all ages, supporting sensory, emotional, and functional needs.

*Responsibilities* :
- Assess and deliver evidence-based therapy
- Collaborate with families and professionals
- Develop tailored therapy programs
- Maintain compassionate client relationships

*Requirements* :
- OT degree and professional registration
- English and Afrikaans proficiency
- Sensory Integration interest (SAISIC 1 & 2 preferred; mentorship provided)

*Apply* :
Send a CV and short motivation to [email protected]

This is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people with sensory processing challenges, neurodiversity, developmental differences, and related conditions.

The true test of emotional regulation isn’t adulthood.
It’s remembering your password on the third attempt.

Happy World Passport Day 🤭

Today's excitement: Attending the Autism Awareness and Acceptance 2026 Seminar online, and enjoying a poke bowl.

One minute, you are taking "first day of school" pictures, and the next, your teen needs to choose Grade 9 subjects. Suddenly, things feel very real...and it's a lot!

This is where a bit of guidance can make a lot of difference.

Instead of guessing (or going with what friends are choosing), this process helps them understand how they’re wired:
* What they are naturally good at
* What they enjoy
* What they value, and
* How they learn

Choosing subjects should not be about pressure or “perfect” choices. The focus should be on helping them make informed decisions, with a bit more confidence and a lot less stress.

📞 083 676 1462 (WhatsApp)
📧 [email protected]

It is always a privilege to work with schools and local communities. Today is Autism Awareness Day. You might also see it being called Autism Acceptance Day. But is that enough?

I tackle this question in today's blog post. Link in the comments.

Feeling exhausted? Exhaustion doesn’t always come from one big event. Instead, it often builds slowly through the quiet accumulation of everyday efforts: managing responsibilities, thinking ahead, keeping things running smoothly, and responding to other people’s needs.

It's no surprise that many people feel emotionally drained even when life appears relatively stable. Nothing dramatic has happened, yet the mind and nervous system feel tired.

This experience is also not limited to one specific stage of life. It can happen at any time, whether you're navigating school pressure, workplace demands, family responsibilities, or life transitions.

Rather than being a reflection of one big event, this exhaustion often reflects how much emotional effort has been happening quietly in the background.

New post up on the blog. The link is in the comments.

If you want to know more about autism, or how to support the autistic person in your life (or even understand yourself better), I can definitely recommend this workshop!

Autism 101 Workshop: Online
11 April 2026

Let’s talk about autism, minus the jargon, myths, and outdated thinking.

This workshop is for parents, families, educators, and autistic individuals who want a clearer, more respectful understanding of autism through a neuroaffirming lens. Together, we’ll explore ideas like Double Empathy, Monotropism, and Intense World Theory, and unpack what autistic experience actually looks and feels like in real life.

This isn’t about “fixing” anyone. It’s about understanding, reducing stigma, and making sense of differences in a way that’s compassionate and practical.

Expect an informal, thoughtful, and engaging session where curiosity is welcome, questions are encouraged, and complexity is respected.

Whether you’re supporting someone, reflecting on your own neurotype, or simply wanting to learn, you’ll leave with new perspectives, clearer insight, and ideas you can genuinely use.

[email protected]
083 676 1462