About Heather Jessup
Heather Jessup, M.Ed.
Meet Heather, who is neurodivergent herself (ADHD) and self-identifies autistic, is the mom of an amazingly brilliant and hilariously funny autistic young man with a suspected Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile.
After years of trying to find appropriate supports for him, Heather and her husband decided to fully incorporate a PDA friendly environment in their home. The result has been life-changing.
With the combination of child-led homeschooling (unschooling) and a very low demand, low arousal approach, their family, and more importantly their son, is thriving.
Heather endeavors to educate and support professionals and families about PDA.
Heather has 17.5 years experience teaching in the public school system. She is Florida Certified Teacher in Elementary education K-6 & Special Education K-12. With endorsements in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) & Gifted Education.
As well as, an Ohio Licensed Teacher Intervention Specialist K-12 (mild/moderate) & Early Childhood (P-3) with endorsements in Early Childhood Generalist (4-5).
Heather is also a Certified PDA Trainer through Open College Network- London.
She is available for consultations and looks forward to working with those who wish to learn more about this unique profile.
Heather is the co-founder of Journeys With PDA.
Supporting Pathological Demand Avoidance
Journeys With PDA is dedicated to advocating and advancing awareness & understanding of Pathological Demand Avoidance, a subtype of autism. As Certified PDA Trainers and parents of children with a PDA profile, they strive to share best practices in supporting those living and working with PDA individuals. We aspire to create a place of connection, community and co-regulation that embraces individuals with this unique profile of autism.
They offer free PDA support coffee chats on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. For information on joining visit the Journeys With PDA website.
Testimonials
