Being Twice Exceptional

Dr. Melanie Hayes’ has translated her warmth, compassion, and expertise as an educator and clinician into a deeply respectful and enlightening book about understanding and embracing twice-exceptional adults with autism. She brings the complexities of being 2eA to life and offers sound advice, comfort, and a guide for living a meaningful life.

There is a shortage of resources out there on twice-exceptionality, especially those relevant to twice exceptional adults. Much of what’s out there focuses on achievement and becoming productive members of society, but ignores the social emotional and whole self of the 2E individual. Melanie has always focused on the well being and positive relationships for 2E folks. This book explores many aspects of living a good life as a 2eA person with stories based on real life experiences. She also takes the time to explore the intersectionality of other marginalized identities and how they affect who gets support, and who gets dismissed. Her work is a valuable asset both for changing the systems that don’t support 2e needs, and helping those who are navigating those systems.

Dr. Melanie Hayes focuses on helping gifted and 2e people find their niche and work to their strengths. She holds a Master’s in gifted education, a Master’s in marriage and family therapy, and a Doctorate in educational leadership with a focus on twice exceptionality. Her research and outreach over the past decade has been centred on building support and understanding for the 2e population. Dr. Hayes is also the founder of Big Minds, an educational model for 2e children that mentors and supports their intellectual, social, and emotional well-being.