Career Labs: Bridging Research and Policy with Autistic Social Worker Steven Isaacson

In our latest episode of iElevate Career Labs, we had the pleasure of speaking with Steven Isaacson, an autistic social worker who brings a unique perspective as both a service provider and self-advocate in the neurodiversity community. After working at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of the National Autism Coordinator, Steven has now dedicated himself to his coaching practice, Sunflower Life Strategies, where he offers neuro-affirming coaching to individuals on the autism spectrum and those who identify as neurodivergent.

Steven first connected with our host, Danielle, at the 2023 Neurodiversity at Work Research Conference hosted by the University of Washington. In this conversation, he reflects on his professional path—from federal policy work to direct service—and shares how those experiences shape his vision for more inclusive, evidence-informed approaches in workplaces and support systems. Together, they explore what it means to bridge research, lived experience, and practice in ways that truly serve our communities.

Episode Highlights:

• Bridging Research and Practice:  Discover how Steven's policy experience at NIH shaped his approach to direct support for neurodivergent clients and the need for more dialogue between researchers and practitioners.

• What "Evidence-Based" Really Means: Steven shares why it's time to rethink how we define what’s effective when supporting neurodivergent individuals, and the importance of bringing lived experience into how we evaluate what works.

• How Coaching Can Be a Tool for Self-Discovery: Hear Steven's take on helping clients find what works for them, not just what's "typical."

• A Powerful Reframe of Disability: Hear Steven's thought-provoking perspective that invites a fundamental shift in how we relate to disability in everyday life.

• Every Person as a Data Point: Find out what Steven means when he says every person he meets contributes to his understanding of human possibilities.

• Beyond Getting Hired: Learn why Steven believes success for neurodivergent individuals isn't just about landing a job—and what he says is "really the name of the game."

🎧 Tune in to hear Steven’s insights on coaching, disability, and what it means to truly support inclusion—from the ground up!

References & Resources:

• More information on Sunflower Life Strategies (Steven’s coaching services)

• Neurodiversity at Work Research Conference

• Office of National Autism Coordination (ONAC)

• Book: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande