Hello
I’m Karla Chinen, a Certified Autism Specialist, certified Independent Facilitator, author, public speaker, trainer, and founder of Empathy for Autism California Inc. I bring over ten years of experience supporting families of autistic and neurodivergent children through bilingual trainings, caregiver support groups, professional development, and community programs.
I blend lived experience with professional training to help families feel informed, empowered, and less alone during and after a diagnosis. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and practical tools that families and professionals can use immediately.
I am currently pursuing my Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Psychology to deepen the clinical and developmental lens I bring to the families and organizations I serve. My mission is to connect families to systems, resources, and community, while ensuring they feel respected, understood, and supported every step of the way.
My Story
My journey began long before any certifications. I became a mother to two incredible autistic children, each with their own strengths, needs, challenges, and ways of experiencing the world. For years, I navigated multiple systems like Regional Center, IEPs, therapies, IHSS without a guide, learning through trial, error, advocacy, and persistence.
Those years shaped how I show up for families today. I understand what it feels like to sit in meetings where decisions are made about your child. I understand meltdowns in public, sleepless nights, sensory needs, fear of judgment, and the heavy weight of not wanting to get it wrong. I also understand the pride, the joy, the resilience, and the fierce love that comes with raising neurodivergent children.
That lived reality pushed me to build something I desperately needed back then: a place where parents and caregivers feel seen, supported, and equipped rather than overwhelmed.
Empathy for Autism California grew from that purpose. What began as sharing resources with a few families has become support groups, community events, trainings, a podcast, a resource hub, and bilingual education for families and professionals across multiple counties.
My story continues as I develop new trainings, write books for families and professionals, pursue graduate studies, and fight for more inclusive, compassionate systems for every child and every caregiver.
If my experience can ease someone else’s journey, even a little, then every step has been worth it.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
951-709-6113
