About Autism Upfront

Lisa Phalen, PhD

I founded Autism Upfront to help clarify misconceptions and deepen understanding of autism through reliable, evidence-based professional training and community education.

With more than 25 years of experience as a special educator and as an Adjunct Professor at Old Dominion University, I combine research-based expertise with personal insight. I earned my PhD in Special Education with a specialization in autism spectrum disorder, focusing my research on meeting the unique needs and challenges of children on the spectrum.

My work is informed by both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent and family member of individuals on the autism spectrum. My years as a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) strengthened my applied knowledge and reinforced my commitment to advancing evidence-based autism education.

Through Autism Upfront, my goal is simple: to clear the noise and highlight the facts, empowering community members, educators, families, and autistic individuals with accurate information, practical tools, and compassionate understanding. Through clarity and connection, I strive to strengthen understanding, acceptance, and inclusion across the autism community.