Accessible Travel for Autism Families: Real Tools, Real Freedom

20/11/2025 52 min

Listen "Accessible Travel for Autism Families: Real Tools, Real Freedom"

Episode Synopsis

What if your next family vacation could double as therapy?In this episode of Beyond the Science, BCBA and certified autism travel pro Rachel Morelli shares how she helps families turn travel into progress, not stress. From cruises with built-in respite care to airports that actually support neurodiverse kids, Rachel breaks down real-world tools that make exploring the world possible for every family. She also introduces The Learning Escape, a first-of-its-kind ABA cruise where professionals can earn CEUs while their families enjoy the trip.🎧 Watch now and see how travel can become therapy and freedom for families everywhere. Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:40 Meet Rachel: BCBA & Autism Travel Pro04:00 Autism on the Seas: Support on Cruises06:30 How Travel Goals Become Therapy Goals09:40 Can Insurance Cover Travel Therapy?13:20 Why Vacations Boost Family Well-being14:45 Genius Safety Tip for Traveling with Kids17:40 Autism-Friendly Parks & Resorts20:10 Airport Help: TSA Cares & Sunflower Program22:00 Practice Flights for Autism Families23:20 The Learning Escape: CEUs at Sea25:50 Inside the First ABA Cruise Conference29:30 Balancing Motherhood & a BCBA Career34:20 Beating Burnout and Finding New Paths36:30 How to Become a Certified Autism Travel Pro38:10 The Future of Accessible Travel42:00 Group Trips, Sponsorships & Insurance45:25 Rapid-Fire Travel Q&A with Rachel47:00 Rachel’s Early Morning Rituals48:20 Final Thoughts & Takeaways

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