Divergent Conversations

A later-in-life diagnosis of a neurodivergent condition can be a catalyst for great relief after years of searching for answers and feeling a bit different as well as invoke grief over the shift in identity, the years of not knowing, a new understanding of limitations, and changes that this understanding might bring.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jamie Roberts, the founder of Equilibrium Counseling Services, about the complex and deeply personal aspects of neurodiversity, identity, and self-discovery.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover the nuances of neurodivergent identities, including the double-edged sword of attaching to a diagnosis, and how the need for constant curiosity shapes personal and therapeutic growth.Unveil the emotional layers of neurodivergent discovery and the balance of relief and grief that come with diagnoses later in life.Explore the authentic paths of unmasking and setting boundaries after life-altering events, highlighting the transformative power of embracing one's true neurodivergent self in both personal and interpersonal dynamics.The discovery of being neurodivergent can lead to a mix of emotions and more questions on top of the answers, but by further exploring your neurodivergent identity, you can find normalizing relief, a sense of community, and start to find your authentic self beyond the mask.More about Jamie:Jamie Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder of Equilibrium Counseling Services, a teen and young adult mental health center in Southern California. ECS, is a place where all identities and brains are celebrated, with the goal of building confidence in identity, and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Jamie is the Neurodivergent Therapist throughout social media and is an active speaker on Neurodivergent and Teen topics. Jamie is also AuDHD (Autistic &amp; ADHD) herself, and actively shares her experiences with her later-in-life diagnosis. She is the author of the book Mindfulness for Teen Anxiety, a practical guide to manage stress, ease worry, and find calm.Jamie’s Website:&nbsp;equilibriumcs.com20% off my course&nbsp;Becoming a Neurodivergent Affirming Therapist&nbsp;(code: DC20):&nbsp;Neurodivergenttherapist.mykajabi.comJamie’s book Mindfulness for Teen Anxiety:&nbsp;equilibriumcs.com/store/p/mindfulness-for-teen-anxiety-a-practical-guide-to-manage-stress-ease-worry-and-find-calmInstagram:&nbsp;@neurodivergenttherapist&nbsp;Jamie’s masterclass with Neurodivergent Insights is also now available! Check it out here:&nbsp;learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/mindfulness-for-teen-anxiety————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divergent-conversations/id1662009631"...

Navigating the world of autism advocacy can be an emotional and complex journey, filled with deeply personal conversations about identity, representation, and systemic change.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Tiffany Hammond, mother, storyteller, and the creator of Fidgets and Fries, about the intricate landscape of autism advocacy, especially done through stories, which Tiffany says are the best teachers, to create relatability and allow space for people to feel how they feel.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insight into the debate over autism symbols, like the puzzle piece, and explore who decides what represents a community—a conversation that extends beyond iconography to embody the true essence of representation and inclusion.Listen to Tiffany Hammond as she explores the diverse spectrum of Autistic experiences with an intersectional lens. She delves into the lives of non-speaking individuals and those in the offline community, broadening our understanding of advocacy and highlighting the urgent need for genuine societal change.Learn about Tiffany's journey through advocacy as she bridges the gap between storytelling and education, challenging academic approaches, and embracing raw, emotional realities, paving the way for authentic conversations on race, disability, and privilege.For many within the autism community, advocacy is not just about raising awareness. It's about challenging deeply ingrained beliefs and constructs, fighting for a space where a diversity of voices, especially those often overlooked or marginalized, are heard and appreciated, acknowledging the diversity of experiences, and working toward a future that honors all. Whether online or off, it’s important to work toward a future that embraces every piece of the spectrum.More about Tiffany Hammond:Tiffany Hammond is the voice behind Fidgets and Fries. She is an Autistic mother and advocate. Tiffany is a storyteller, using her own personal experiences with Autism and parenting two Autistic boys to guide others on their journey. Her activism is rooted in challenging the current perception of Autism as being a lifelong burden, cultivating a community that explores the concept of Intersectionality and Autism, and inspiring thought leaders through storytelling, education, and critical discourse. She has a Masters in Developmental Psychology from Liberty University.Tiffany’s Website:&nbsp;fidgetsandfries.coTiffany’s Book:&nbsp;adaywithnowords.comInstagram:&nbsp;instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries&nbsp;Facebbok:&nbsp;Facebook.com/fidgetsandfriesPre-Order Self-Care For Autistic People:&nbsp;Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order&nbsp;Self-Care for Autistic People&nbsp;you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here:&nbsp;newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4yQhemvtxdBuLmHqtU7H2k"...

When you are struggling with sensory overwhelm, social anxiety, feelings of not fitting in, and the many other common struggles that neurodivergent individuals experience, there can be a lot of appeal to turn to coping mechanisms that can temporarily reduce those feelings. However, these momentary escapes can lead to dependency, addiction, and ultimately the loss of connection.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, dive into the complex topic of the connection between neurodivergence and addiction and “unfortunate coping.”Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insight into the stigma and societal reactions associated with struggling to control legal substances like alcohol and gambling, and explore strategies for coping with emotional avoidance and regulating emotions.Understand the journey of overcoming addiction through Patrick and Dr. Neff’s personal stories, as well as learn about the importance of therapy, connection, and vulnerability, and challenge the clean recovery narratives, that often don’t work well for neurodivergent people, to acknowledge the complexity of recovery.Explore the concept of harm reduction, the importance of community and connection, and the shift from focusing on not doing something to adding something in life as part of addiction recovery.As you consider the complexities of addiction, we encourage you to reflect on the need for new language and approaches to support those struggling with addiction. Remember to practice empathy and compassion, and consider how you can contribute to building a community that fosters connection and supports individuals on their journey to recovery.Pre-Order Self-Care For Autistic People:&nbsp;Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order&nbsp;Self-Care for Autistic People&nbsp;you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here:&nbsp;newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Many neurodivergent people grew up with the feeling of being different, not belonging, and some even feeling like the world was against them. They may have also received painful labels like, “challenging,” “too much,” and “not enough,” among others.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Dayna Abraham, ADHDer, national board educator, author, and parenting specialist for neurodivergent children, about how to bridge the gap between parents and children who don’t yet understand neurodivergence by meeting parents where they are with language and narrative so that they can access the information they need to start to see their kids for who they are.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the importance of bridging gaps in awareness and education, as well as the need for compassion, understanding, and advocacy for neurodivergent individuals to challenge and change conventional attitudes and systems.Learn how to shift from fault to needs and values when parenting a neurodivergent child so that parents can recognize and understand children's needs, as well as foster a support-based approach instead of fault-based parenting.Hear the personal experiences of Patrick, Dr. Neff, and Dayna as they highlight their own experiences as children who were given the label of “challenging,” as well as the perspective of Dayna and Dr. Neff who now fill the role of the parent.It’s only in more recent years that people have started to talk about and explore neurodiversity, so the gap that we now have to bridge to educate and advocate is still large. It’s important to offer parents of neurodivergent children the resources they need to challenge themselves to view and approach their children differently.Pre-Order Self-Care For Autistic People:&nbsp;Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order&nbsp;Self-Care for Autistic People&nbsp;you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here:&nbsp;newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;<a...

It’s important to take moments to pause and reflect on what is going well in your life and what you want to change moving forward, especially when you have more limited energy to invest into what you choose.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about the importance and benefits of reflection and intention setting, as well as the shame, impact, and FOMO that can be experienced when addressing expectations and embracing limitations. They also share some of their own intentions and the emotions that accompany them as they move forward into the new year.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the importance of being intentional with time and energy, and hear about Patrick and Dr. Neff’s struggles with workaholism and difficulty in setting boundaries.Identify some areas to evaluate in your life to help with assessing what will fill versus drain your cup, as well as address some of the emotions and challenges that can arise in facing them.See what plans and intentions Patrick and Dr. Neff have for 2024, as well as the emotions that arise with evaluating where to spend their energy, capacity, and focus.It can be easy sometimes to get caught up in the excitement of making plans, but before the year fills with new activities, take a moment to pause and reflect on what you would like to include and even maybe remove from your life to help find more balance.Pre-Order Self-Care For Autistic People:&nbsp;Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order&nbsp;Self-Care for Autistic People&nbsp;you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here:&nbsp;newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join <a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"...

Would you describe the way you feel as you walk through the world as having raw, exposed nerve endings? Or would you say that you just flow through the world able to smoothly transition throughout to day to handle whatever comes your way?In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jennifer Agee, a neurotypical mental health professional, about her experience moving through the world as a neurotypical in comparison to the experiences of autistic individuals.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand some of the ways allistic neurotypicals might experience small talk, context cues, and pivot in social situations.Identify the ways in which neurodiverse couples communicate and adjust for sensory needs so that both partners can have their needs fulfilled.Hear some personal stories from Patrick, Dr. Neff, and Jennifer about how they experience travel, dating, marriage, and daily life in different ways.We want to give this disclaimer that this episode only highlights the experience of one neurotypical person, but it still gives a glimpse into the unique ways that various neurotypes experience the world.More about Jennifer Agee:Jennifer is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, Professional Entrepreneurial Retreat Host and Coach, host of the "Sh*t You Wish You Learned in Grad School" podcast, an internationally known speaker, and owner of Counseling Community, Inc. and Counseling Community KC. Jennifer stepped away from seeing clients in January 2023 and is now focused full time on clinical supervision, strategic business coaching, leading retreats and continuing education. Jennifer is a mental health regional spokesperson for a national healthcare company and pursues entrepreneurial opportunities utilizing her educational and therapeutic training to benefit the community in non "butt in seat" ways. She has a passion for helping therapists not only become excellent clinicians but solid practice owners.Jennifer’s Website:&nbsp;https://counselingcommunity.com&nbsp;Jennifer’s Facebook:&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/groups/destination.ce.retreats&nbsp;Jennifer’s Instagram:&nbsp;https://www.instagram.com/counselingcommunity————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ <a...

Ever wonder what the differences are between the ways non-Autistic ADHDers and Autistic ADHDers process and move through the world?In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Dr. Donna Henderson, a non-Autistic, ADHDer psychologist, about her personal experience as an ADHDer, as well as explore the overlap and differences between ADHD and autism.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what life looks like as an ADHDer in regards to things like executive functioning, sensitivity and reactiveness, conversational tempo, working memory, and task switching.Identify the ways Autism and ADHD can influence how we process information and engage in conversations, as well as how this shows up in relationships.Learn about what it really means to do self-care and how to break free from the generic standards of healthy living to act in alignment with what you actually need and want.There is a surprising number of differences between the way Autistic individuals and ADHDers might experience the world. This episode only covers the experience of one ADHDer, so we encourage you to further explore the nuances and diverse perspectives of ADHDers.More about Dr. Donna Henderson:Dr. Donna Henderson has been a clinical psychologist for over 30 years. She is passionate about identifying and supporting autistic individuals, particularly those who camouflage, and she is co-author (with Drs. Sarah Wayland and Jamell White) of two books:&nbsp;Is This Autism? A guide for clinicians and everyone else&nbsp;and&nbsp;Is This Autism? A companion guide for diagnosing. Dr. Henderson’s professional home is The Stixrud Group in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she provides neuropsychological evaluations and consultations for children, adolescents, and adults who would like to understand themselves better. She is a sought-after lecturer on the less obvious presentations of autism, autistic girls and women, PDA, and on parenting children with complex profiles. She also provides case consultations and neurodiversity-affirmative training for other healthcare professionals.Dr. Donna Henderson's Website:&nbsp;drdonnahenderson.com&nbsp;You can grab Dr. Donna Henderson's books here:&nbsp;isthisautism.comDr. Donna Henderson’s Masterclass on PDA (with Neurodivergent Insights):&nbsp;https://learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/pda-masterclass/&nbsp;(As a listener use “PDA10” to get $10.00 off the Masterclass!————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join <a...

Do you ever feel like your immune system is working against you? You don’t know what’s wrong, no one else knows what’s wrong, you keep doing medical tests and it’s coming back normal or the pieces don’t add up.Autistic people often experience a myriad of chronic health conditions and nervous system dysregulation that leaves us feeling terrible, overwhelmed, and with tons more questions than answers about what’s going on with our bodies.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with&nbsp;Dr. Mel Houser (she/they), an autistic family physician,&nbsp;about myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), the connection between Autism and nervous system dysregulation, the struggles with the healthcare system and getting treatment for these symptoms, and the importance of becoming a “detective in your own life.”Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the role that daily experiences play in potentially triggering health conditions or pain through nervous system dysregulation.Uncover the complexities of living with neuroimmune conditions like ME CFS and mast cell dysfunction.Learn how to get support to address the unique challenges that neurodivergent individuals face in accessing mental health and medical care.More about Dr. Mel Houser:Dr. Mel Houser (she/they) is an Autistic family physician with a clinical focus on providing primary care for neurodivergent patients across the lifespan. She is the Founder and Executive Director of All Brains Belong VT, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in Montpelier, Vermont that uses universal design principles to provide neurodiversity-affirming medical care, social connection opportunities for all ages, and neurodiversity-related educational training. At age 37, Dr. Houser was diagnosed as autistic, ADHD, dyspraxic, dyslexic, and dyscalculic. She is also the parent of an autistic 6-year-old, who is her guru of so many keys to the universe.Website:&nbsp;https://allbrainsbelong.org&nbsp;Instagram:&nbsp;@allbrainsbelongvtCheck out All Brains Belong’s new project:&nbsp;Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic &amp; ADHD Adults&nbsp;provides health education resources to support people with this constellation of intertwined conditions, as well as strategies for discussing the project with medical providers. There is also a Clinician Guide with a combination of evidence-based practice and the lived experiences of more than 100 Autistic and ADHD community members.Here's the link to the project:&nbsp;https://allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ <a...

Finding a neurodivergent affirmative therapist is important for individuals who are Autistic, have ADHD, or have another diagnosis.However, it isn't always easy to connect with a therapist who is willing to explore their client's special interests, even though it can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed during therapy sessions.There are some therapists out there who shy away from or just don't understand neurodivergent minds and thinking, despite what claims may be on their profiles, which can make finding the right therapist a challenge.But neurodivergent affirmative therapists are out there. You just need to know what to look for.If you are looking for a neurodivergent affirmative therapist and aren't sure where to start, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Learn how and where to find a neurodivergent affirmative therapist who can support your unique needs.Identify what to look for and expect in a neurodivergent affirmative therapist and what therapy modalities are generally most helpful for autistic and ADHD individuals.Identify some common misconceptions about what kind of therapy works best for neurodivergent folks, as well as hear about Megan and Patrick's personal experiences.Remember, finding a neurodivergent affirmative therapist can be a challenge, but with the right tools and information, it's absolutely achievable. Keep advocating for yourself, and know that healing and overcoming shame and stigma related to seeking therapy is a testament to your strength and resilience.Additional Resources:Check out these resources on Megan's website:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/resources————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground<a...

For individuals who've wondered if they are autistic (or know they are but haven't been formally diagnosed), it can be a complex journey to first decide whether or not to seek a formal autism diagnosis and then to learn how to restructure the way they see and interact with the world.Getting diagnosed and embracing yourself as autistic can feel like tearing down a wall (or removing your mask). And you can finally see yourself clearly, but so can everyone else.You might feel relief, you might feel grief, you might feel like you don't know what to do next, so if you're trying to decide if you want to get a formal diagnosis, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Hear 2 different diagnosis stories from Megan and Patrick, including a before and after look at the way they showed up in the world.Understand the many different ways that autism presents and is perceived across different ages, gender, race, and other backgrounds.Identify what it means to unmask and how to do it for yourself.There are many misconceptions and cultural stereotypes around autism that make a misdiagnosis or complete overlooking of autism very common. Even Patrick and Megan didn't get diagnosed until adulthood.If you are wondering about a diagnosis for yourself, a family member, etc., then hopefully these stories can help you find the answers for you.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a neurodivergent-affirming community. If you’d like to go deeper with us into more nuanced, searching conversations, join here: <a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/"...

Do you ever find yourself in a state of paralyzing burnout that can happen even when you're doing activities that you enjoy?Have you ever taken a vacation to fight the fatigue of life only to find that your post-vacation burnout-recovery state is reversed sooner and more severely than others?Do you wonder how you can reduce your burnout in a way that works and actually lasts?Then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to this episode:Understand what autistic burnout looks like and how it differs from the burnout that might be experienced from things like work.Identify ways to provide self-care when you are experiencing autistic burnout, as well as how to incorporate sensory soothers.Learn how autistic burnout and ADHD can affect each other.Autistic burnout can be a very tiring and frustrating experience. It can have a significant impact on your productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life. Therefore, it is important to understand what it is, how it affects you, and how to deal with it effectively. By doing so, you can preserve your energy and improve your quality of life.To cope with autistic burnout, it is crucial to identify the activities or practices that help you recharge and calm your senses. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can manage your energy levels and reduce the likelihood of burnout.Additional Resources:Check out Dora M. Raymaker's study on autistic burnout: “Having All of Your Internal Resources Exhausted Beyond Measure and Being Left with No Clean-Up Crew: Defining Autistic Burnout."&nbsp;Megan's Resources for Autism and Burnout:&nbsp;How to Spot Autistic Burnout:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-symptomsWhat Causes Autistic Burnout:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-causes-autistic-burnoutAutistic Burnout Recovery:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-recoveryAutistic Burnout Workbook:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-burnout-guide-and-worksheets————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join <a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/"...

The world of relationships and attachment styles from a neurodivergent perspective is complex and sometimes misunderstood as characteristics of neurotypes and attachment styles overlap and shape social interactions and dynamics.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about partnerships, attachment theory, and relationships across various neurotypes.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face in feeling connected and present in social situations, and how their experiences with attachment styles can differ significantly from societal norms.Identify how the impact of sensory and neurodivergent perspectives on attachment styles can shape relationships in profound and often misunderstood ways.Hear the personal stories and experiences of Patrick and Dr. Neff in relationships before diagnosis and after, including the fantasy of relationships and whether behavior is based on attachment styles or neurotypes.By exploring the complexities of the neurodivergent experience and attachment styles, it can become clearer how you communicate and what you need to enjoy more balanced and healthy relationships where your and your partner’s needs can “mostly” be met.Additional ResourcesNeurodivergent Insights Interpersonal Workbook: Neurodivergent Insights Workbook:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/interpersonal-workbookCan Autistic Children Be Securely Attached?&nbsp;By Debra Brause Psy.D. (Psychology Today)The Attachment Project:&nbsp;Great articles and resources on attachment theory————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

There are a lot of different opinions and feelings about the neurodivergent experience during the holiday season. The reality is that they will be vastly different for each individual, and there isn’t a right way to experience the holidays.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, dive into the complexities of navigating the holiday season as neurodivergent individuals, offering valuable strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and finding moments of connection.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the challenges of masking or unmasking publicly and at holiday events, as well as the importance of setting boundaries to protect one's energy and sensory needs during gatherings.Identify strategies for managing stress and anxiety during the holiday season, including ways to do self-care and prioritize value-based activities.&nbsp;Learn how to release expectations, find compromise, and create moments of joy and connection that result in more meaningful personal experiences in cross-neurotype relationships and prioritize well-being for every neurotype.We all have different likes and dislikes, as well as perceptions and experiences, so do your best to release any expectations around how you should experience and feel about the holiday season, and try to create an environment and experience that honors your unique wants and needs.&nbsp;Resources:One of Dr. Neff’s first blog posts ever written was on navigating their first holiday season after the discovery that they were Autistic, so if you want some more Autistic holiday musings here you go:Autism and the Holidays: Reflections:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/neurodivergent-holiday-reflections————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join <a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/"...

Labels can have a profound impact in the way neurodivergent individuals are perceived by others and themselves. Labels both originate from and shape narratives that can shift the trajectory of how life is experienced.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Sandra Coral, somatic therapist, founder of Neurodivergent Narratives, author, and podcast host, about the impact and source of labels, the use of somatic therapy, and the treatment of individuals from children to adults who have and don’t have the label of ADHD in relation to race, gender, sexuality, etc.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the need to acknowledge and embrace the complexity of individuals' experiences, challenging narrow storylines that do not reflect their true experiences and promoting empowerment through personal narrative exploration.Learn about the significance of somatic work for understanding and meeting the needs of neurodivergent individuals including establishing safety and trust, and co-creating a language for accessing the body in therapeutic processes.Identify the impact of societal markers and the teacher's own background on how children's behaviors are interpreted in educational settings for the most marginalized within the neurodivergent community.The stories we tell ourselves shape our experiences with the world, so pay attention to your stories and ask yourself where they come from—did they come from you or someone else—then trust yourself to be the expert in your own life.Sandra's Information and Resources:Sandra (she/they) is the education consultant, narrative therapy practitioner, and somatic attachment coach behind Neurodivergent Narratives, a space for supporting neurodivergent people through therapeutic support, educational consulting, and online advocacy.&nbsp;They are a Black, trans-racial adoptee, parent, queer, femme with late-in-life neurodivergent diagnoses, who share their experiences navigating this society. Their first book aimed at those supporting neurodivergent children called, "It's Never Just ADHD, Finding the Child Behind the Label" is to be published in early 2024 by Sage Publishing House.Order links are available here:UK:&nbsp;https://uk.sagepub.com/en-gb/eur/it%E2%80%99s-never-just-adhd/book279617US:&nbsp;https://www.sagepub.com/en-us/cab/it%E2%80%99s-never-just-adhd/book279617More Resources from Sandra:Podcast Host of Neurodivergent Narratives&nbsp;https://neurodivergentnarrativespodcast.buzzsprout.comSubstack:&nbsp;https://ndnarratives.substack.com&nbsp;@nd.narratives on InstagramLinktree:&nbsp;https://linktr.ee/ndnarratives————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divergent-conversations/id1662009631" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) impacts many aspects of your life and can be a driving force in how you manage relationships and internally process the world around you, so there are many nuances for it.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, answer some of the questions from listeners about RSD, including everything from self-shaming to the connection with other diagnoses.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what masked RSD looks like and the impact it has on shame and finding connection.Identify what connections and impact RSD might have on conditions like PMDD, as well as how the experience of rejection can be viewed differently between ADHD and Autistic individuals.Learn some strategies to help deal with the experience of RSD to create a better environment around you and pay attention to your core needs.When it comes to RSD, everything goes back to connection. It’s both the thing that humans need and also something that can seem so difficult to attain and maintain. If you are struggling with complex and shifting intrusive narratives or internalized emotions that can last for years, try to focus on your core needs at the moment and check in with yourself so that you can offer yourself the opportunity to think more objectively and take action that is more likely to benefit you.Resources plus Exclusive Coupon CodeDr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Clinical Use):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-clinical&nbsp;Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Personal Use):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundleUse Code: “DivergentConversationsListener”&nbsp;To get 20% off anything in the shop, including the RSD bundle.&nbsp;Dr. Neff's free blog posts on RSD:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/Rejection+Sensitive+Dysphoria————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ <a...

If you struggle with rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), navigating social media can be complicated.&nbsp;Social media is both a place where many neurodivergent individuals are able to find connection and be seen, but it can also be a place where impulsivity and reactiveness can run rampant, both on the giving and receiving end of online conversations and posts.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, delve deep into the complex relationship between social media, rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), setting boundaries, and mental well-being.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how to address RSD burnout with social media, as well as the important role that boundary-setting plays in helping you show up online with reduced intensity of RSD.Hear about some ways that Autistic individuals may experience social media differently, and even more positively, than allistic people and neurotypicals.Learn some RSD-symptom-reducing strategies to check yourself and check in with others when you are struggling with fear of being misunderstood.As you navigate the complexities of social media, remember to check in with yourself and establish your boundaries for the way you interact with others online and who you allow into your space. Don’t be afraid to unfollow someone or snooze posts from a friend. Make it your priority to protect your mental well-being and engage in a healthier way.Resources plus Exclusive Coupon CodeDr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Clinical Use):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-clinical&nbsp;Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Personal Use):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundleUse Code: “DivergentConversationsListener”&nbsp;To get 20% off anything in the shop, including the RSD bundle.&nbsp;Dr. Neff's free blog posts on RSD:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/Rejection+Sensitive+Dysphoria&nbsp;The EFT attachment infinity loop can be downloaded here:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/couples-resources————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube...

Do you ever feel like you are more sensitive to rejection, teasing, criticism, or your own perception that you have failed or fallen short? Or maybe you know someone who seems to be particularly hard on themselves and reactive to others?Everyone experiences some reaction to rejection, but individuals with RSD find themselves more likely to perceive harsh rejection and criticism where there might be none and can sometimes feel like they live in a chronic state of rejection.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, dive deep into the complexities of rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and its impact on neurodivergent individuals and the people around them.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the impact of RSD and how it can lead to chronic pain, affect relationships, and cause avoidance behaviors in professional and personal settings.Hear about some ways that RSD can impact relationship dynamics and major life changes and decisions.Learn about treatments and strategies to help with RSD, as well as ways to adapt therapeutic modalities to be more effective with neurodivergent individuals.Rejection sensitivity dysphoria can be difficult to navigate both internally and externally and can have a profound impact on the way you experience the world, but there are ways to address it that can help with reducing the intensity around feelings of rejection and finding ways to improve relationships through collaborative communication around RSD.Resources plus Exclusive Coupon CodeDr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Clinical Use):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-clinical&nbsp;Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Personal Use):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundleUse Code: “DivergentConversationsListener”&nbsp;To get 20% off anything in the shop, including the RSD bundle.&nbsp;Dr. Neff's free blog posts on RSD:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/Rejection+Sensitive+Dysphoria&nbsp;The EFT attachment infinity loop can be downloaded here:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/couples-resources————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️<a href="https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLk_7zVFallQAgRuo9vtv4Fn87f2H6uwLL&amp;si=FIajBnNcsS7Plxxe"...

Do you wonder how life might differ between an Autistic individual without ADHD and an Autistic individual with ADHD?In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Amanda Diekman, mother of three neurodivergent children, and an author and coach in the neurodivergent-affirming parenting world, about her experiences as an Autistic individual without ADHD.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand some of the struggles, grief, and loss surrounding switching between a masked and unmasked self.Identify some of the ways that autism without ADHD can present differently from other neurotypes, including sensory issues, special interests, demand avoidance, and life tasks.Get a glimpse into the world of parenting for neurodivergent moms.There are many nuances surrounding the experiences of Autistic individuals since autism is a disability you can’t necessarily see. We want to give this disclaimer that this episode only highlights the experience of one Autistic person, but it still gives a glimpse into the unique ways that various neurotypes experience the world.More about Amanda:Amanda Diekman's mission is to lead weary parents into the joy and ease of the low-demand life. She's an ordained pastor and parent coach, a late diagnosed autistic adult, and a mom of three neurodivergent children. Since recovery from her own burnout and PTSD, Amanda has been spreading the message of low-demand parenting — dropping demands and aligning expectations to meet children with radical acceptance. She lives in the North Street Community, an intentional community of all abilities in downtown Durham.Amanda's Website:&nbsp;www.amandadiekman.comAmanda’s Book:&nbsp;Low Demand ParentingParenting Summit:&nbsp;Low Demand Parenting SummitMastermind:&nbsp;Amanda’s Mastermind Program————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We

Would you describe the way you feel as you walk through the world as having raw, exposed nerve endings? Or would you say that you just flow through the world able to smoothly transition throughout to day to handle whatever comes your way?In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jennifer Agee, a neurotypical mental health professional, about her experience moving through the world as a neurotypical in comparison to the experiences of autistic individuals.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand some of the ways allistic neurotypicals might experience small talk, context cues, and pivot in social situations.Identify the ways in which neurodiverse couples communicate and adjust for sensory needs so that both partners can have their needs fulfilled.Hear some personal stories from Patrick, Dr. Neff, and Jennifer about how they experience travel, dating, marriage, and daily life in different ways.We want to give this disclaimer that this episode only highlights the experience of one neurotypical person, but it still gives a glimpse into the unique ways that various neurotypes experience the world.More about Jennifer Agee:Jennifer is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, Professional Entrepreneurial Retreat Host and Coach, host of the "Sh*t You Wish You Learned in Grad School" podcast, an internationally known speaker, and owner of Counseling Community, Inc. and Counseling Community KC. Jennifer stepped away from seeing clients in January 2023 and is now focused full time on clinical supervision, strategic business coaching, leading retreats and continuing education. Jennifer is a mental health regional spokesperson for a national healthcare company and pursues entrepreneurial opportunities utilizing her educational and therapeutic training to benefit the community in non "butt in seat" ways. She has a passion for helping therapists not only become excellent clinicians but solid practice owners.Website:&nbsp;https://counselingcommunity.com&nbsp;Facebook:&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/groups/destination.ce.retreats&nbsp;Instagram:&nbsp;https://www.instagram.com/counselingcommunity————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ <a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources" rel="noopener...

Ever wonder what the differences are between the ways non-Autistic ADHDers and Autistic ADHDers process and move through the world?In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Dr. Donna Henderson, a non-Autistic, ADHDer psychologist, about her personal experience as an ADHDer, as well as explore the overlap and differences between ADHD and autism.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what life looks like as an ADHDer in regards to things like executive functioning, sensitivity and reactiveness, conversational tempo, working memory, and task switching.Identify the ways Autism and ADHD can influence how we process information and engage in conversations, as well as how this shows up in relationships.Learn about what it really means to do self-care and how to break free from the generic standards of healthy living to act in alignment with what you actually need and want.There is a surprising number of differences between the way Autistic individuals and ADHDers might experience the world. This episode only covers the experience of one ADHDer, so we encourage you to further explore the nuances and diverse perspectives of ADHDers.More about Dr. Donna Henderson:Dr. Donna Henderson has been a clinical psychologist for over 30 years. She is passionate about identifying and supporting autistic individuals, particularly those who camouflage, and she is co-author (with Drs. Sarah Wayland and Jamell White) of two books:&nbsp;Is This Autism? A guide for clinicians and everyone else&nbsp;and&nbsp;Is This Autism? A companion guide for diagnosing. Dr. Henderson’s professional home is The Stixrud Group in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she provides neuropsychological evaluations and consultations for children, adolescents, and adults who would like to understand themselves better. She is a sought-after lecturer on the less obvious presentations of autism, autistic girls and women, PDA, and on parenting children with complex profiles. She also provides case consultations and neurodiversity-affirmative training for other healthcare professionals.Dr. Donna Henderson's Website:&nbsp;drdonnahenderson.com&nbsp;You can grab Dr. Donna Henderson's books here:&nbsp;isthisautism.comDr. Donna Henderson’s Masterclass on PDA (with Neurodivergent Insights):&nbsp;https://learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/pda-masterclass/&nbsp;(As a listener, use “PDA10” to get $10.00 off the Masterclass!————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join <a...

Autism and narcissism can sometimes get lumped together in conversations, but despite there being some seemingly overlapping traits, it is important to not generalize all people with narcissistic traits as individuals with a narcissistic personality disorder.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about the stereotypes, misconceptions, and misunderstandings surrounding autism and narcissism, as well as the traits that are often perceived to go with them.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how social media, a more polarized society with low tolerance for disagreements, and privilege have impacted and shaped the use of the terms Autistic and narcissistic.Identify some of the ways and reasons that Autistic individuals may face challenges in perceiving the world from someone else's perspective, leading to misunderstandings in relationships and conflict in the workplace.Learn how communication styles, the ways autistic individuals find connection, and alexithymia can lead to mislabeling autistic people as unempathetic or narcissistic.Both diagnoses are complex and multifaceted, so join us in unraveling some of the complexities of narcissism and autism.*DISCLAIMER:&nbsp;Due to the limited time available in a podcast episode, we were only able to scratch the surface of the many nuances and conversations surrounding these complex diagnoses. We also want to emphasize that there are a lot of people with narcissistic personality disorder who are doing the work to get insight into it, so we don’t have the intention of putting down anyone who has received this diagnosis.This is only a glimpse into the topic, so we encourage your questions and comments and will try to address them when we are able to do so or in a future podcast episode. You can reach out to&nbsp;[email protected].————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join <a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Pregnancy loss is traumatic and the grief process that follows is complex. And when you are Autistic, the way you express grief and loss might not meet the expectations of society, which can result in feeling ashamed and isolated.&nbsp;In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, speak with Dr. Kiley Hanish, a neurodivergent occupational therapist specializing in mental health during the perinatal period, about autistic grief and loss while focusing on pregnancy loss.Both Dr. Neff and Kiley, who are both Autistic, experienced pregnancy loss and they talk about their experiences personally, within the medical system, going through pregnancy again after experiencing loss, having to parent their children after pregnancy loss, then sensory overwhelm that comes with pregnancy and parenting, and the ongoing process of grieving.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Hear about the profound grief associated not only with losing a child but also with the loss of one's identity when becoming a parent.Understand some of the many ways that grief can manifest, and learn how to incorporate rituals and practices into the grieving process to honor your loss that is tailored toward the needs of autistic individuals.Identify the ways that the healthcare system can improve the responses to individuals experiencing pregnancy loss to help create safety and reduce trauma in difficult times.When experiencing loss, it’s not realistic to just “get over” the grief and move on. There are many complex emotions and often misunderstandings about what is the right way to deal with grief, especially when autism is brought into the equation. If you are experiencing this loss, you’re not alone and your experience is valid regardless of whether other people say you are “doing it right.”More about Dr. Kiley Hanish:Dr. Kiley Hanish is a neurodivergent occupational therapist specializing in mental health during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy, postpartum, and perinatal loss. After suffering the stillbirth and loss of her first child Norbert, Kiley co-created the Emmy-nominated film&nbsp;Return To Zero&nbsp;to break the silence and stigma around pregnancy and infant loss for parents around the world. The film’s success and critical acclaim led to her non-profit organization&nbsp;Return to Zero: HOPE. This organization provides inclusive and compassionate education and support for bereaved families after pregnancy and infant loss. In addition, they provide training and support for health providers in order to foster more confidence when working with these families.Return to Zero: HOPE Website:&nbsp;https://rtzhope.orgKiley’s Instagram and Facebook:&nbsp;@rtzhopeAdditional Resources MentionedWorden’s Four Tasks Of Grieving:&nbsp;https://whatsyourgrief.com/wordens-four-tasks-of-mournin————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divergent-conversations/id1662009631" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Taking up space and asking for what you need in social settings and relationships can be particularly challenging for Autistic individuals, especially before Autistic diagnosis or discovery.It is not uncommon for many Autistic people to respond strongly to rejection, and we often work hard to "earn" a place in groups where we are allowed to safely exist by being helpful to others or blending in by dressing or acting in a way that seems "normal" or "acceptable."Maintaining these actions while constantly paying attention to details can be a painful and exhausting experience.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the concept of taking up social and emotional space in interactions with others, what it felt like for them to balance efforts to belong with sensory overwhelm while they were still masking before Autism discovery, and the benefits of incorporating new ways of socializing and parallel play that honor their needs as autistic humans.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the importance of Autistic individuals giving themselves permission to socialize in ways that feel comfortable and authentic to them.Hear about Patrick and Dr. Neff's struggles with taking up space and fully expressing themselves, as well as the challenges of showing up authentically in crowded environments, social situations, and even in running their own businesses.Learn about the importance of parallel play, both in social relationships and in connecting with neurodivergent communities, as well as how it provides a unique sense of comfort and understanding, allowing Autistic individuals to be themselves without the pressure to conform to neurotypical norms.Communicating our needs and creating spaces where we can be understood and accepted is crucial, especially for neurodivergent individuals.Finding the balance between self-expression and self-preservation can be a lifelong journey, but by honoring your needs and seeking community with individuals who understand and won't put the pressure of neurotypical values around relationships, it's possible to "create space" for yourself.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Statistically, 70% of Autistic individuals identify as non-heterosexual, and genderqueer people are 3 to 6 times more likely to be diagnosed as Autistic than cisgender adults.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Rebecca Minor, MSW, LICSW, a gender expansive therapist and advocate in the neuroqueer space, about genderqueer identity and neuroqueer identity—what they are, how they intersect, and how they are perceived versus present in society, relationships, and the mental health community.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what is genderqueer identity and neuroqueer identity, as well as delve into the misconceptions surrounding them.See how neurodivergence and queerness overlap for both Autism and ADHD, including what studies have been done around this.Understand the importance of self-disclosure in therapy, particularly for marginalized communities with intersectional identities, and how it can build connection and community, as well as offer emotional relief for clients.There is still a lot to learn and unpack about queerness and neurodivergence, but research suggests a strong connection between neurodivergence and gender identity. We hope to shed light, give valuable insights, and broaden your understanding of these diverse identities.More about Rebecca:Rebecca Minor, MSW, LICSW is a neuroqueer femme, clinician, consultant, and educator specializing in the intersection of trauma, gender, and sexuality. As a Gender Specialist, Rebecca partners with trans and gender nonconforming youth through their journey of becoming, and is a guide to their parents in affirming it. Rebecca is part-time faculty at Boston University School of Social work and always works through a lens that is neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, and resilience-oriented. In addition to her clinical work, Rebecca has provided cultural humility training and consultation to organizations, schools, and businesses for the past decade. You can follow her on Instagram, hire her for parent coaching, or check out her blog, and free guides and course for parents and caregivers!Rebecca’s Website:&nbsp;www.genderspecialist.com&nbsp;Work with Rebecca:&nbsp;https://www.genderspecialist.com/coaching&nbsp;&nbsp;Rebecca’s Instagram:&nbsp;http://instagram.com/gender.specialist&nbsp;&nbsp;Rebecca’s Facebook:&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaMinorLICSW&nbsp;ResourcesNeurodivergent Insights Masterclass Series: Exploring Neuroqueer Identities&nbsp;by Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Rebecca Minor:&nbsp;https://learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/exploring-neuroqueer-identities/Neurodivergent Insights Infographic:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autism-infographics/trans-autism————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4yQhemvtxdBuLmHqtU7H2k" rel="noopener...

Many questions around identity often come up for adults who have been masking their whole lives and discover later in life that they are Autistic.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, answer some of the questions sent to them from podcast listeners about identity and moving forward in life after autism discovery.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Hear answers to questions like, how do you know who you really are beyond the mask, can you still enjoy your masked life and live as your authentic self, are you defined by your autistic traits?Understand the process of self-discovery and how it can manifest for different people, as well as some ways to express your newfound identity.Learn strategies to reshape the way you structure your time, commitments, and priorities to protect your energy and live a more balanced life.The process of self-discovery and learning can be challenging. You might feel grief that can arise from losing or feeling disconnected from the masked version of your life, but you also can experience a feeling of liberation as you explore the new version of yourself, and you’ll have the opportunity to understand and honor your needs.ResourcesWhat is Masking in Autism? Autistic Masking Explained (blog post):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-is-masking-in-autism?rq=maskingAutistic Masking Workbook:As a podcast listener, you can use this coupon code to enjoy a 25% discount on the individual workbook or the workbook for clinicians.For&nbsp;Personal Use, use coupon code:&nbsp;Unmasking25&nbsp;here&nbsp;(https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking)For&nbsp;Clinical Use, use code:&nbsp;Unmasking25-Clinical&nbsp;here&nbsp;(https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking-therapy-resources)————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations...

Identity is complex and interwoven into the world around us. But as Autistic individuals who wear a mask, identity is often not entirely shaped by ourselves. Late in life discovery of autism or ADHD can set off a cascading journey of self-discovery and identity exploration. Once we start to embrace our authentic selves and explore our identity, everything can change.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, dive into the topic of exploring identity as late-diagnosed Autistic individuals and discuss the process of exploration and claiming an identity that embraces all our neurodivergent uniqueness, how it impacts and changes daily life and choices, and how it can shift both new and old relationships.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what unmasking and redefining identity can look like, as well as how it can impact both internal and external experiences, preferences, and relationships.Discover how breaking free from a "mask" identity can allow autistic individuals to explore their creative side, set boundaries, and authentically accept their autistic identity.Learn how to use pleasure and play to explore identity and discover your most authentic self.Give yourself permission to explore uncomfortable emotions and experiences. Be curious, dive into the things that give you pleasure, and detach from others' expectations to unlock new paths of self-awareness and understanding.ResourcesWhat is Masking in Autism? Autistic Masking Explained (blog post):&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-is-masking-in-autism?rq=maskingNeuroqueer Heresies:&nbsp;Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities&nbsp;by Dr. Nick Walker (book):&nbsp;https://neuroqueer.com/neuroqueer-heresies&nbsp;Autistic Masking Workbook:As a podcast listener, you can use this coupon code to enjoy a 25% discount on the individual workbook or the workbook for clinicians.For&nbsp;Personal Use,&nbsp;use coupon code:&nbsp;Unmasking25&nbsp;here&nbsp;(https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking)For&nbsp;Clinical Use,&nbsp;use code:&nbsp;Unmasking25-Clinical&nbsp;here&nbsp;(https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking-therapy-resources)————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divergent-conversations/id1662009631" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Lived experience, awareness, self-identification, and self-diagnosis for autism and ADHD can have immense value, allowing us to connect with a community and share experiences that others may not fully comprehend. However, there are also risks of misdiagnosis and misinformation that can potentially cause harm.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, explore the hot topics surrounding misinformation, social media anecdotes, and self-diagnosis of autism and ADHD.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the importance of finding “data points” to look at the overall person and the importance of doing research on diagnosis using multiple sources.Identify the reasons for self-identifying as autistic or ADHD.Learn about the risks and benefits of self-diagnosis and how to make informed decisions.If you relate to the experience of autism, ADHD, or any form of neurodivergent diagnosis that you hear about on social media or elsewhere, it’s important to gather information and research from multiple sources before fully taking on the identity that comes with a life-altering diagnosis.Dr. Neff has tons of free resources available on her website, https://neurodivergentinsights.com, and Instagram page, @neurodivergent_insights.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a neurodivergent-affirming community. If you’d like to go deeper with us

Self-disclosure of an autistic diagnosis in medical situations or even everyday life is a very vulnerable thing to do, and there are so many results that can come from it.Self-disclosure can result in both negative and positive experiences including everything from insurance challenges and negative societal assumptions to better accommodations for sensory issues in medical situations and quicker access to neurodivergent-affirming healthcare providers.This mix of results can make the decision to self-disclose or even seek a diagnosis in the first place a very tricky choice.&nbsp;In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, cover the topic of self-disclosure for autism diagnoses and share their personal experiences, both good and bad, around self-disclosure as autistic individuals diagnosed in adulthood.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the complexities of disclosing autism diagnoses and the various implications it can have on one's life.Understand the complications and stigma surrounding getting treatment with medication for neurodivergent individuals who are struggling with chronic health issues.Learn how to tailor self-disclosure to meet specific needs and goals during medical visits.Self-disclosure in medical settings can be complex and feel vulnerable and is not always right for everyone and every situation. However, if you choose to do so, using the method of partial self-disclosure to tailor care to your individual needs and finding healthcare providers who are neurodivergent-affirming and willing to learn about you and your needs can help reduce stress in medical situations.Resources:Autism Acceptance In Medical Care: This infographic talks through steps medical providers can take to be more Autistic aware and inclusive: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autism-infographics/autism-acceptance-in-medicine————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Do you ever feel like your immune system is working against you? You don’t know what’s wrong, no one else knows what’s wrong, you keep doing medical tests and it’s coming back normal or the pieces don’t add up.Autistic people often experience a myriad of chronic health conditions and nervous system dysregulation that leaves us feeling terrible, overwhelmed, and with tons more questions than answers about what’s going on with our bodies.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with&nbsp;Dr. Mel Houser (she/they), an autistic family physician,&nbsp;about myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), the connection between Autism and nervous system dysregulation, the struggles with the healthcare system and getting treatment for these symptoms, and the importance of becoming a “detective in your own life.”Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the role that daily experiences play in potentially triggering health conditions or pain through nervous system dysregulation.Uncover the complexities of living with neuroimmune conditions like ME CFS and mast cell dysfunction.Learn how to get support to address the unique challenges that neurodivergent individuals face in accessing mental health and medical care.More about Dr. Mel Houser:Dr. Mel Houser (she/they) is an Autistic family physician with a clinical focus on providing primary care for neurodivergent patients across the lifespan. She is the Founder and Executive Director of All Brains Belong VT, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in Montpelier, Vermont that uses universal design principles to provide neurodiversity-affirming medical care, social connection opportunities for all ages, and neurodiversity-related educational training. At age 37, Dr. Houser was diagnosed as autistic, ADHD, dyspraxic, dyslexic, and dyscalculic. She is also the parent of an autistic 6-year-old, who is her guru of so many keys to the universe.Website:&nbsp;https://allbrainsbelong.org&nbsp;Instagram:&nbsp;@allbrainsbelongvtCheck out All Brains Belong’s new project:&nbsp;Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic &amp; ADHD Adults&nbsp;provides health education resources to support people with this constellation of intertwined conditions, as well as strategies for discussing the project with medical providers. There is also a Clinician Guide with a combination of evidence-based practice and the lived experiences of more than 100 Autistic and ADHD community members.Here's the link to the project:&nbsp;https://allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ <a...

There are a lot of nuances of Autistic masking, and it's become a sensitive and polarizing topic these days online and in social media.With all the various opinions, information, and anecdotes out there, it can be confusing to understand what masking is, and how privilege and different social identities intersect with the experience of unmasking. Masking and unmasking impacts mental health, identity, and relationships in significant ways.&nbsp;In this episode, Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Patrick Casale, two AuDHD mental health professionals, delve deep into the concept of Autistic masking as well as share their personal experiences with masking.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how autistic masking is not just about blending in, as well as how it can be both beneficial and harmful.Identify ways that privilege, safety, and race intersect with masking.Learn strategies to address burnout caused by masking and, if desired, to unmask if you are in a position and place to do so.Masking can be a very charged and complex topic, so now, more than ever, we need to delve deeper into the complexities of autistic masking and promote understanding, empathy, and inclusivity.Resources:Blog Post:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-is-masking-in-autismYou can also grab the Autistic masking checklist when you sign up for Dr. Neff’s newsletter:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.ck.page/51e276c041————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground<a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Difficulty with unexpected changes or routine disruptions is a pivotal part of being Autistic and even small changes can result in a surge of irritation.In regards to routine or plan changes, Dr. Neff described her feelings as an Autistic person: "Once I'm, like, emotionally checked out of something, I'm out."Patrick Casale shared his experience saying that it's very hard to get back into a place where he feels mentally regulated, and he just gets very irritated, very easily.In this episode, Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Patrick Casale, both AuDHDer mental health professionals, share their own struggles, experiences, and feelings around routine disruptions, being over- or under-stimulated in day-to-day life, and learning to better understand their reactions to small and big changes through the lens of their diagnosis.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the challenges faced by ADHDers and Autistic people when it comes to sensory stimulation and emotional regulation.Identify the difference between Autistic-ADHDers and pure Autistic people around routine disruption and routine changes.Learn strategies to cope and self-soothe emotions such as anxiety caused by routine disruption.It can at times feel frustrating or shameful for Autistic people to experience strong emotions or feel upset by what others see as seemingly insignificant things. However, by recognizing these feelings and understanding that they are part of our neurodivergent nature, we can help combat self-criticism and better advocate for our needs.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a...

In this episode, we explore demand avoidance, a common experience among neurodivergent people. We delve into the factors contributing to demand avoidance, including executive functioning challenges, sensory issues, and a desire for autonomy. Additionally, we take a closer look at Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), also known as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, a complex and often misunderstood subtype of autism. Join us as we navigate this important topic, gaining a deeper understanding of demand avoidance and its impact on neurodivergent lives.Dr. Megan Anna Neff, an AuDHDer psychologist and mother of a child with PDA, describes it as "anything that comes at the person that threatens autonomy invokes an extreme fight-flight response," and says that it can be seen through a lens of "nervous system through stress response," making it different than something like oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder.Individuals with PDA sometimes develop sophisticated and subtle masking strategies to appear compliant and cooperative on the outside, even though they may struggle internally, which can involve imitating expected social behaviors and responses while suppressing their genuine feelings of overwhelm and resistance.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff speak with Tara Holmquist, PsyD, about PDA and her personal experience as an AuDHDer with PDA.If you're interested in learning more about PDA, trauma, and demand avoidance, this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how PDA shows up in the lives of those who have it and how it both internally and externally impacts their lives.See how demand avoidance is often a coping mechanism rooted in trauma.Learn coping strategies and skills for managing demands.PDA can be a painful and overwhelming internal struggle that also manifests in ways that aren't always received well on the external side of things when the pressure of demands just becomes too much.&nbsp;This episode aims to shed some light on the complex world of demand avoidance and PDA to gain a deeper understanding.&nbsp;More about Tara Holmquist:Tara is a clinical psychologist licensed in CA and WI. She has been in private practice for about 5 years working with adults with relational/attachment trauma, as well as addiction/substance use. Her practice is exclusively telehealth, and her practice values include a heavy examination and challenge of implicit biases, internalized capitalism, and patriarchal leanings. Her practice is trauma and social justice informed. And she's a pretty cool regular human too.Tara's Facebook:&nbsp;facebook.com/tmhpsychTara's Instagram:&nbsp;instagram.com/tmhpsychotherapyAdditional Resources:Dr. Neff's blog post on&nbsp;"Autism PDA Explained: The Core Characteristics of Pathological Demand Avoidance"PDA MasterClass:&nbsp;For an in-depth clinical definition of PDA, check out Neurodivergent Insights&nbsp;MasterClass&nbsp;featuring Dr. Donna Henderson.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️<a...

Socializing in groups can feel exhausting and often adds an entirely different level of complexity to the sensory experience and challenges for autistic individuals.Patrick Casale, an AuDHD mental health therapist, shared his thought processes and some of the questions that run through his head when in group conversations, such as, "When do I interrupt? When do I not? When do I jump in? When do I not? When do I stay quiet? When do I avoid adding commentary?"Dr. Neff shared that she shows up differently in conversations with people one-on-one than in group settings, and gave the example that in her one-on-one conversations with Patrick during the podcast episodes, her "analytical brain is able to pretty much go offline" and she gets immersed in the conversation, but said that she can very rarely do that in groups.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, share their experiences around communication in various social settings.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what tracking is and how it plays a role in social interactions and regulation for autistic individuals.Identify ways to reduce stress and overwhelm that is related to social interactions and sensory overload in group settings.Learn how to balance the personal needs of autistic individuals with the needs of other members of their inner circle who are allistic.It's important to find ways to support mental well-being through the struggles of emotional overwhelm and sensory overload that many autistic individuals face on a daily basis.&nbsp;Social interactions and experiences can be different for everyone, so we encourage you to make the effort to find ways to do restorative self-care and prioritize social activities that align with your values and needs.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground<a...

Picture the immense amount of energy invested in analyzing your emotional responses to every social interaction, striving to decipher not only your own feelings but also how the other person perceived the conversation. Or imagine navigating through life with a constant undercurrent of irritability and anxiety, yet lacking a clear understanding of their origin.These experiences only represent a small fraction of what people with alexithymia may experience.Alexithymia, which in simple terms is difficulty identifying and describing emotions, is a trait that is often associated with autism and ADHD, however despite the fact that one-in-ten people in the general population have this trait (not just Autistic people), there are still many misconceptions about what it is, who it really impacts, and how it shapes their experiences and relationships.Dr. Megan Anna&nbsp;Neff, an AuDHD psychologist with alexithymia, states that a lot of things that have been attributed to autism, for example, difficulty with emotion recognition on faces or voice, are actually due to alexithymia, not autism.&nbsp;In this episode of Divergent Conversations, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, talk with guest, Thomas Henley, an Autism consultant, public speaker, workplace trainer, and podcast host of “Thoughty Auti Podcast”, about all things alexithymia.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what alexithymia is, how is it related to autism and ADHD, and some common attributes associated with autism that are strongly linked to alexithymia.Identify the ways that alexithymia affects emotional regulation and the ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level.Learn what strategies and therapeutic approaches individuals with alexithymia can use to help facilitate emotional regulation and deeper connections with others.Alexithymia affects many individuals in the general population, so taking the time to recognize and understand the traits, challenges, and experiences associated with alexithymia, can help facilitate deeper connections with others, self-acceptance, and healthy ways to manage overwhelming emotions and situations.Alexithymia ResourcesAlexithymia articles on neurodivergent insights:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/AlexithymiaAlexithymia workbook:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/alexithymia-workbookDr. Neff’s Alexithimia Training:&nbsp;https://learn.therasmarts.com/courses/AlexithymiaMore about our guest, Thomas Henley:My name is Thomas Henley, I’m an Autism consultant, public speaker and workplace trainer running the Worlds Top podcast ‘Thoughty Auti Podcast’, all about Autism &amp; Mental Health - independently presented, edited and promoted by my Autistic self.I’m also a Commonwealth/British champion in Taekwondo, Biomedical Sciences (Hons) graduate from UoM, Autistic Model, documentary creator of ‘Aspergers In Society’ &amp; ambassador for Anna Kennedy OBE &amp; Born Anxious.I was diagnosed Autistic at 10 years old and later developed severe mental health conditions at the age of 14 due to trauma at Secondary School - Clinical Depression, GAD, Bulimia &amp; multiple Dissociative disorders.Most of my content focuses around the low quality-of-life statistics for autistic people, such as mental health, social isolation, unemployment, education, relationship difficulties &amp; self-harm in all...

Travel and the act of experiencing people and places is something that is generally talked about with excitement, but for Autistic people, it can be a much more complex experience.Patrick, who hosts entrepreneurial retreats for therapists all over the world and travels often for extended periods of time, shared that despite loving to travel, the experience of hosting retreats and being away from home could also feel torturous at times, like having exposed nerves that were shocked by all things sensory.When talking about travel and social interactions, Dr. Neff expressed that it "feels like the decision is to have a really small life or to lean into experiences, but to be constantly confronted with the too-muchness of the world."In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, both AuDHD mental health professionals, share their diverse experiences and feelings about travel, social interactions, and sensory overload.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the challenges and experiences of neurodivergent individuals while traveling and in stimulating social spaces.Identify ways that travel can provide positive stimulation for Autistic individuals through new experiences.Learn ways to manage and do self-care and self-advocacy when feeling sensory overload during travel.Travel and social situations can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals, but through vulnerability and a commitment to self-care, it is possible to find strength and joy in the pursuit of exploring new places and experiences.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a...

Being an Autistic human often pairs with a complex relationship with emotions.Just the question, "How do you feel," can feel so uncomfortable and spark anxiety, panic, and avoidance, often resulting in pre-planned responses or an answer that makes you think, "What the hell am I saying right now?"In her initial session with a new therapist, Megan Anna, an Autistic psychologist, unintentionally exposed her genuine feelings about emotions, inadvertently confessing, "I hate emotions."In this episode, you'll hear the personal experiences and realizations of both Patrick and Megan Anna around emotions, communication, and navigating relationships.If you or someone you know struggles with expressing emotions or feeling understood and connected to others, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how Autistic people may display emotions differently and the challenges we face in navigating and expressing our emotions.Identify signs of sensory overload, what can trigger it, and some methods to help self-soothe and regulate.Learn how and which tools and technologies to use to improve and aid in communication&nbsp;By gaining a deeper understanding of Autistic emotions, we gain the potential for greater self-awareness which can empower us to embrace our authentic selves and foster meaningful connections.💻&nbsp;Dr. Megan Anna Neff's Website:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com💻&nbsp;Patrick Casale's Website:&nbsp;https://www.allthingspractice.com&nbsp;Resources:Resources for Emotion Identification&nbsp;(blog posts):The Emotion Matrix:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/arousal-valence-modelThe Feeling Wheel:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/the-feelings-wheelIncreasing Emotional Identification:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/emotional-identificationResource (Workbook):The Alexithymia Workbook:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/alexithymia-workbookEmotions 101:&nbsp;If you’re a nerd like me and enjoy learning the science of emotions this workbook is for you:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/emotions-101————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️<a...

Finding a neurodivergent affirmative therapist is important for individuals who are Autistic, have ADHD, or have another diagnosis.However, it isn't always easy to connect with a therapist who is willing to explore their client's special interests, even though it can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed during therapy sessions.There are some therapists out there who shy away from or just don't understand neurodivergent minds and thinking, despite what claims may be on their profiles, which can make finding the right therapist a challenge.But neurodivergent affirmative therapists are out there. You just need to know what to look for.If you are looking for a neurodivergent affirmative therapist and aren't sure where to start, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Learn how and where to find a neurodivergent affirmative therapist who can support your unique needs.Identify what to look for and expect in a neurodivergent affirmative therapist and what therapy modalities are generally most helpful for autistic and ADHD individuals.Identify some common misconceptions about what kind of therapy works best for neurodivergent folks, as well as hear about Megan and Patrick's personal experiences.Remember, finding a neurodivergent affirmative therapist can be a challenge, but with the right tools and information, it's absolutely achievable. Keep advocating for yourself, and know that healing and overcoming shame and stigma related to seeking therapy is a testament to your strength and resilience.Additional Resources:Check out these resources on Megan's website:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/resources————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground<a...

There can be a lot of stigma around autism and especially being an autistic therapist, which can make it even harder for autistic individuals to step into this career.They may even be told that they can't be empathetic or relate to others in a way that could help their clients, which is just NOT TRUE.If you are autistic and have been hesitating to step into the mental health field because of the stigma around autism, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how being autistic can make you a better therapist for other neurodivergent clients, often more so than an allistic (not of the autism spectrum) therapist.Identify ways to combat the notion that autistic people can't make good therapists, as well as how to navigate grad school when you are receiving a negative perspective on autism from professors or supervisors.&nbsp;Learn how to structure a private practice to support your needs and create a stable work environment for more longevity in your career as a therapist.When Dr. Megan Neff was asked why they became a therapist, the answer was "because I'm autistic." This episode can help you explore in what ways autism can help you succeed as a therapist, as well as in what ways you might struggle and how to face those times.Check out the resources on Megan's website to learn how you can find a Neurodivergent Affirming Therapist:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/resources&nbsp;————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real...

For many adults who are diagnosed later in life, their diagnosis story often begins with a misdiagnosis story.It's not uncommon for these adults to go through childhood and some adult life just feeling like they are a bit more weird or different than a lot of the people around them.It can even be a somewhat painful experience as they try to find answers and explore the reasons&nbsp;why&nbsp;they just don't seem to fit in and&nbsp;why&nbsp;they present themselves the way they do.If you have been exploring the possibility that you might be undiagnosed or misdiagnosed autistic, ADHD, or another neurodiverse diagnosis and want to explore more about what that might look like, this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand some signs of autism and ADHD in early childhood and teen years, and how they can be misdiagnosed or misunderstood.Identify ways that undiagnosed autism and ADHD can impact development around and interactions with environments and people and manifest self-soothing habits, as well as how to identify what grounds you and helps you regulate and cope with things that cause you discomfort.Hear the personal stories of Megan and Patrick prior to diagnosis and how they showed up in their childhood and teenage years.Undiagnosed autism and/or ADHD can have a huge impact on the way an individual shapes their behavior, beliefs, and relationships in the world, and finding answers to a lifetime of questions only in adulthood can feel frustrating and confusing but also offer a sense of relief and comfort. It's important to explore what helps you regulate your body, find comfort, self-soothe, and cope with stress to live a life that is designed around your uniqueness.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground<a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/" rel="noopener...

For individuals who've wondered if they are autistic (or know they are but haven't been formally diagnosed), it can be a complex journey to first decide whether or not to seek a formal autism diagnosis and then to learn how to restructure the way they see and interact with the world.Getting diagnosed and embracing yourself as autistic can feel like tearing down a wall (or removing your mask). And you can finally see yourself clearly, but so can everyone else.You might feel relief, you might feel grief, you might feel like you don't know what to do next, so if you're trying to decide if you want to get a formal diagnosis, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Hear 2 different diagnosis stories from Megan and Patrick, including a before and after look at the way they showed up in the world.Understand the many different ways that autism presents and is perceived across different ages, gender, race, and other backgrounds.Identify what it means to unmask and how to do it for yourself.There are many misconceptions and cultural stereotypes around autism that make a misdiagnosis or complete overlooking of autism very common. Even Patrick and Megan didn't get diagnosed until adulthood.If you are wondering about a diagnosis for yourself, a family member, etc., then hopefully these stories can help you find the answers for you.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a neurodivergent-affirming community. If you’d like to go deeper with us into more nuanced, searching conversations, join here: <a href="https://divergentconversations.substack.com/"...

Ever wake up in the middle of the night with the thoughts of “Damn. I’m not going back to sleep tonight” crossing your mind?&nbsp;Sleep and neurodivergent brains have a complex relationship, and many neurodivergent individuals struggle with insomnia, restless sleep, sleep paralysis, being light sleepers, and having the weirdest sleep schedule in general, if you can call it a schedule at all.&nbsp;Fatigue is often common and more intense for neurodivergent individuals, which can be hard on those who are already struggling with executive functioning.If you find that sleep is a challenge or seems harder for you to get than others, then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the relationship between neurodivergence and sleep disorders and challenges on a personal and clinical level.Learn how to make the most of sleepless nights so that you can reduce the stress of your “time zaps.”Identify ways to improve the quality and consistency of sleep.Sleep challenges are something neurodivergent individuals will often struggle with, so we encourage you to explore what will help take some of the stress out of sleepless nights and help create the best environment for relaxation and rest.Dr. Neff Resources:&nbsp;Autism, ADHD, and Sleep: An Expert Guide on Neurodivergent Sleep:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autism-adhd-and-sleepSleep Workbook:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/the-neurodivergent-sleep-workbook————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations...

Do you ever find yourself in a state of paralyzing burnout that can happen even when you're doing activities that you enjoy?Have you ever taken a vacation to fight the fatigue of life only to find that your post-vacation burnout-recovery state is reversed sooner and more severely than others?Do you wonder how you can reduce your burnout in a way that works and actually lasts?Then this episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to this episode:Understand what autistic burnout looks like and how it differs from the burnout that might be experienced from things like work.Identify ways to provide self-care when you are experiencing autistic burnout, as well as how to incorporate sensory soothers.Learn how autistic burnout and ADHD can affect each other.Autistic burnout can be a very tiring and frustrating experience. It can have a significant impact on your productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life. Therefore, it is important to understand what it is, how it affects you, and how to deal with it effectively. By doing so, you can preserve your energy and improve your quality of life.To cope with autistic burnout, it is crucial to identify the activities or practices that help you recharge and calm your senses. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can manage your energy levels and reduce the likelihood of burnout.Additional Resources:Check out Dora M. Raymaker's study on autistic burnout: “Having All of Your Internal Resources Exhausted Beyond Measure and Being Left with No Clean-Up Crew: Defining Autistic Burnout."&nbsp;Megan's Resources for Autism and Burnout:&nbsp;How to Spot Autistic Burnout:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-symptomsWhat Causes Autistic Burnout:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-causes-autistic-burnoutAutistic Burnout Recovery:&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-recoveryAutistic Burnout Workbook:&nbsp;&nbsp;https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-burnout-guide-and-worksheets————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join <a...

Have you ever felt like there was some big mystery that you could never solve as to why you acted and thought the way you did?Maybe you were told that you are neurodivergent but struggle to understand what that means for you.Do you feel tired of masking and don't know where to find a voice that will speak out, be supportive, and educate about neurodivergence?This episode is for you.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand what it means to be autistic and how it can be easily misdiagnosed and misunderstood.Identify the many ways in which autism shows up in a person and its diversity.Understand what it means to mask and how this reflects in and shifts the dynamics of relationships.In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. Megan Anna Neff, Psychologist, and Patrick Casale, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, 2 Autistic-ADHDer Therapists, and see what this podcast has in store for you.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:&nbsp;neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground&nbsp;is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a neurodivergent-affirming community. If you’d like to go deeper with us into more nuanced, searching conversations, join here: divergentconversations.substack.com————————————————————————————————Mentioned in this episode:Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit:...