Optimal ACCESS / ACCESS Academy Logo

ACCESS Connections

Connections Join Our Community

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

Optimal ACCESS is offering new courses for those who spell/type to communicate! Our interactive groups are held via Zoom, so participants can join from anywhere. You are welcome to enroll until the 3rd week of any course. No discount offered for missed sessions. Recordings may be available. Each 6 week course costs $180. ($90 for A2A Students, FREE for enrolled ACCESS Academy students) Watch here for new offerings or contact us to be notified when enrollment opens for our next group.

Fall 2026 ACCESS Connections opportunities
are coming soon!

ACCESS Connections brings individuals together through engaging, interest-based social groups designed to foster meaningful relationships, build confidence, and encourage authentic participation in a supportive, neuro-affirming environment. Whether exploring shared interests, engaging in creative activities, discussing favorite topics, or connecting with peers, participants have opportunities to develop communication, collaboration, and social engagement while having fun.

Our groups are thoughtfully designed to honor each individual’s strengths and provide meaningful opportunities for connection, belonging, and personal growth.

Stay tuned for our upcoming lineup of social groups, schedules, and registration information. We can’t wait to connect with you this fall!

PAST GROUP OPPORTUNITIES

Mind Over Matter was designed for autistic and apraxic individuals who communicate by spelling or typing. This interactive group focused on strengthening the connection between the brain and body through purposeful movement, regulation, and motor planning activities in a supportive, neuro-affirming environment.

Minds and Motor Group is focused on purposeful movement exercises for autistic and apraxic individuals that spell/type to communicate. Those movements would be decided upon by me or participants. There will be a heavy focus on neurologic music therapy to provide the best structures for families and individuals to use on their own after the group is over to continue working on new motor skills.

Fabulous Film Group is a chance to watch films and have conversation around themes, sets, characters, plots, etc. Participants watch the film and come prepared to share their thoughts in discussion. We also encouraged group members to share ideas of what you might like to watch!

Mindful Music Group will include opportunities to analyze music and songs suggested by group members, evaluate what makes a good song “good”, learn about music theory, and compose music together.  We will learn the basics of written music, the basics of harmony and melody, and technology and choice board options to create with. We will compose and playback music we make together. You don’t need to have previous musical experience, just bring your curiosity and we’ll have a great time!

Quotes From Our Participants

“Can I just say I need this class. I am so pleased. Love having this can-do class”

“I really loved learning this. I want to learn more so I can have control”

“I feel like music helps me regulate which helps so much with organizing my motor. To say my life would suck without music would be an understatement!”

Donnie W Headshot

Trust is hard for me after years in foster care and special ed without a way to communicate. Tone of voice will trigger my flashbacks. I aggressively dysregulate and I can’t control it when scared.

Donnie W., Autistic Self-Advocate
Lucas J Headshot

Please understand. Dumb wrong words come when I get excited. Listen to my typing voice and not my unreliable speech!

Lucas J., Autistic Self-Advocate

HELP OUR EFFORTS FLOURISH

Join us as a mission partner

DONATE NOW