Caitlyn O'Neil, CPA, wasn't always open about being on the autism spectrum. It took a couple of years before the senior tax accountant at CBIZ MHM in Denver told most of her colleagues she's autistic. "Before that I really struggled trying to explain some of my behaviors. I just called it 'busy season brain,'" she said. "Then I just decided it was too much stress, and just acknowledging this is why I'm different, that lifted a huge weight off my shoulders."

In the last couple of years, she's become outspoken about her experiences in hopes of helping other neurodiverse people in the workplace. "I'm trying to use my privilege and trying to make it easier for other marginalized people," she said. "If I can do something to help, then my journey is all worth it."

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has been in the forefront for many firms over the last several years. However, people with disabilities don't always play a central role in related discussions. Autism Awareness Month — which takes place in April — aims to improve understanding and acceptance of people with autism.

Daniel Openden, Ph.D., is president and CEO of the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC). In a conversation with Crystal Cooke, director–Diversity & Inclusion at the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, he explained that autism is a developmental disability characterized by deficits in social skills and communication that can range from mild to severe....

Read Full Story: https://www.journalofaccountancy.com/news/2022/apr/become-more-inclusive-neur...