EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids

answering YOUR questions on today's episode! or really the unasked question of how do I deal with depression and anxiety as a parent of an autistic kiddo? this conversation is intended that remind you that you are not alone in your experiences, dispel stigmas around seeking mental health support, and offer practical advice on getting help.RESOURCES⚡️ check out episode 44 where my mom shares about navigating her experience with anxiety and depression⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇in this podcast episode, Dr. Tay welcomes Eleanor Ezell, LCSW to the podcast. we discuss selective mutism, also known as SM, an anxiety disorder where children are unable to speak in certain settings, with certain people, or in certain situations. Eleanor offers insights into how this disorder can be identified, distinguished from language delay, and effectively treated with Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for SM (PCIT-SM). the episode concludes with a discussion on differential diagnosis and the interplay between selective mutism and autism. a great listen if you have concerns about your child not speaking in public or you want to learn more about co-occurring diagnoses with autism.CHAPTERS0:00:00 introduction to Eleanor Ezell, LCSW and selective mutism (SM)0:08:10 identifying SM0:17:27 treatment for SM using Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT-SM)0:31:21 overlap of autism and SM0:43:18 communication challenges in autism and SM and the use of neurodivergent affirming care0:53:55 supports and resources for parents RESOURCES⚡️ connect and learn from Eleanor on Instagram @growlittleminds and her clinical practice. resources also on Selective Mutism Association, for which Eleanor serves as a a board member ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, both identity-first (autistic child) and person-first language (child with autism) are used. although as clinicians and practitioners, we are slowly learning to shift our language and take the lead from the autistic community, the stance of this podcast is that we ultimately want to honor what each child and family prefer. additionally, in the SM field, person-first language remains most common at this time.

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay explores the complexities of autism genetics. the episode also looks into the phenomenon of parents questioning their own neurodivergence following their child's autism diagnosis. RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

in today's episode, I am answering a frequently asked question. we dive into next steps after your child gets diagnosed. we cover: processing your emotions, reading the report, deciding on intervention approaches, navigating the school system, and learning about neurodiversity. dr. tay also shares insights on what she says to parents during the feedback session.RESOURCES⚡️ resources to learn more about neurodiversity >>Start Here: A guide for parents of autistic kidsAutistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN)⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay welcomes Kayla Castro to the podcast, a certified autism travel professional and parent to an autistic child. this episode focuses on the fears, challenges, and joys of traveling as an autism family. Kayla shares her family's story and provides practical advice on how to navigate travel with autistic family members. the conversation includes tips on how to make travel more accessible, including the use of the Disability Access Service Pass at Disney and the TSA Cares Initiative. Kayla also discusses tools and strategies to prepare your child for travel. the episode offers a comprehensive guide to autism-friendly travel.CHAPTERS(0:00:00) - introduction and description of a certified autism travel professional(0:05:00) - sharing her family's autism story and their travel experiences(0:10:48) - IBCCES and certified autism centers (learn more here)(0:12:17) - Disability Access Service Pass at Disney and Accessibility Cards for other theme parks(0:21:36) - TSA Cares Initiative and other flying accomodations(0:28:29) - sunflower lanyard (get yours here)(0:32:00) - preparation for trips, including front-loading, YouTube, and picky eating(0:35:10) - a deeper discussion around fear (0:41:30) - travel services Kayla provides for families RESOURCES⚡️connect with Kayla on Instagram and via email. and visit her website to learn more about her services and offerings and read her blog.⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay *please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares a recent comment on social media that led to unpacking her approaches and why she focuses on supporting the whole family. we touch on the sensitive balance of meeting the needs of the autistic child while acknowledging the energy and emotions of the entire family unit. RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

in this personal and reflective episode, Dr. Tay shares her journey and growth as she approaches her 34th birthday. she discusses her experiences as a single woman and her dedication to helping families of neurodivergent children despite not having any of her own. drawing parallels from her own life, she introduces the concept of a crystal ball and reasons that knowing the future will not actually give us the peace we desire. through her introspective dialogue, she underscores the importance of accepting uncertainties, finding hope, and not letting worries 'hijack' our present joys. this episode will hit home if you have worries about your autistic child's future!RESOURCES⚡️ if you want to give me a birthday present, share an episode on your social media (and tag me!) and/or leave a 5-star review! THANK YOU 🩷⚡️book referenced in the episode >> No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz, PhD⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered, including group therapy? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇this episode is aimed at redefining what early intervention for young autistic children can look like, with a shift from trying to "cure" autism to instead supporting and affirming neurodivergence. we dive into leveraging Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) to accomplish that goal. the presented approaches emphasize the effectiveness of parental involvement and how to embed learning into everyday activities, and are an alternative to the more widely known yet controversial ABA (check out episode 26 for more information on this). strategies shared are centered on engagement and connection with your autistic child, such as staying within the child's attentional zone, using imitation for language development, and narrating the child's activities. emphasis is also placed on acknowledging all forms of communication, slowing down to give children time to think and process, and providing neurodivergent affirming care. RESOURCES⚡️book and corresponding website referenced:An Early Start for Your Young Child with AutismHelp Is In Your Hands⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay explores the parallels between the intense interests of Taylor Swift's fans and the passions of autistic children. the purpose of this episode is to challenge societal norms that largely celebrate Swifties and pathologize autistic children. listeners are invited to shift their perspectives to view autistic interests not as disordered but as passions that should be embraced and accepted. RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇today is a special Q+A episode. Dr. Tay brought back special education attorney Ashley Barlow to answer your questions. we address the following topics:504 vs. IEP for your autistic childhow to prioritize learning vs. coping and self-advocacyhow to navigate finding the best schoolsre-evaluation of autismhow to measure progresseducational funding and what influences special education decisionsthoughts on half days for therapyprioritizing friends in the classroomconsiderations for homeschoolingmeeting with your teacher before schoolRESOURCES⚡️ ways to connect with Ashley >>learn more about her free and affordable resources at ashleybarlowco.comfollow her on Instagram @ashleybarlowco and Facebook Ashley Barlow Co⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay welcomes Sofya Stearns, founder of Izabella's Gourmet Chow, to the podcast to share her journey of using cooking as a means to explore cultures, support autistic children, and promote healthy eating. Sofya also shares tips on making cooking fun and safe for kids, such as using plastic knives and transforming ordinary foods into extraordinary creations. throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of making cooking a fun exploration and a journey rather than just a task.RESOURCES⚡️ learn about Izabella's Gourmet Chow and virtual cooking classes for your child.⚡️ connect with Chef Sofya on social media, including 5 recipes she put together for you >>Instagram @izabellasgourmetchowTikTok @izabellasgourmetchowFacebook Izabella's Gourmet Chow⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.

in this mini episode REMIX, Dr. Tay has pulled excerpts from "episode 12 | autism consultant Molly Johnson on visual supports" to highlight the discussion on educational advocacy and working with your child's teachers and IEP team. Molly Johnson has her master's in education and is a former autism teacher. she now has become @theautismconsultant on Instagram.RESOURCES⚡️ submit your questions for a special upcoming Q+A episode on educational rights and helping your child transition back to school (either via Instagram DMs or the Evolve Facebook group)⚡️learn more about Molly's membership: https://www.theautismconsultant.us/membership⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: how do I deal with my child's aggression when our attempts aren't working? A: Dr. Tay starts off the episode urging parents to understand the function of aggression - that it is a form of communication and may serve as a form of sensory regulation for your autistic child. she provides tips and strategies beyond traditional behavioral approaches and emphasizes the importance of modeling what you want your child to do instead. there is also a brief discussion around the pathological demand avoidance (PDA) profile.RESOURCES⚡️ if you have not listened to episode "10 | the ABCs of challenging behavior", you are strongly encouraged to listen to that episode first.⚡️supplemental episodes referenced in today's podcast are episodes 2, 3, 18, and 41.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇I often see in my work as a child psychologist that parents don't understand what their rights are and what their autistic children should be receiving through the educational system. in this episode, we dive into IDEA, specially designed instruction, IEPs, 504s, and more. we talk specifically about the history of special education and what as a parent you can advocate for. it's important to recognize that a clinical diagnosis isn't the same as an educational diagnosis, so we're going through that educational process with my expert guest, Ashley Barlow, an attorney and former teacher. Ashley also has experience navigating special education as a parent, as her 13-year-old son, Jack, has Down Syndrome.this episode will help you learn:why the public education system has to provide support for your autistic childthe differences between an IEP and a 504 planinterest-based negotiation and knowing your rights as a parentspecific steps for how you can advocate for your autistic childRESOURCES⚡️ submit your questions for a special upcoming Q+A episode on educational rights and helping your child transition back to school (either via Instagram DMs or the Evolve Facebook group)⚡️ ways to connect with Ashley >>learn more about her free and affordable resources at ashleybarlowco.comfollow her on Instagram @ashleybarlowco and Facebook Ashley Barlow Co⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares her takeaways from the Barbie movie and the application to parenting a neurodivergent child. themes include authenticity, social norms, imagination, and emotions. even if you haven't seen the Barbie movie (or did and hated it!), the insights shared here make this worth the listen.RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: what is the best educational setting for my autistic child? what about an aide for my child?A: Dr. Tay breaks down educational settings in this episode, including public, private, Montessori, and homeschooling. we discuss various factors to consider regarding schooling type and the importance of understanding your child's strengths and support needs to inform your decision as a parent. we also touch briefly on IEPs in this episode.RESOURCES⚡️ submit your questions for a special upcoming Q+A episode on educational rights and helping your child transition back to school (either via Instagram DMs or the Evolve Facebook group)⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇in this podcast episode, Dr. Tay and Dr. Carrie Jackson discuss the complex intersection of autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). they review the importance of accurate diagnosis to distinguish overlapping yet distinct features in autism and ADHD as well as co-occurrence. treatment modalities are also discussed, including parent training, CBT, and stimulant medication. CHAPTERS(0:00:00) - Introduction of Dr. Carrie Jackson, a licensed psychologist specializing in ADHD (0:02:45) - Dr. Carrie's personal connection to ADHD (0:04:20) - the role of social media in mental health education (0:07:00) - key differences between ADHD and autism, including hyperfocus vs. intense interests(0:11:50) - ADHD in autistic children(0:13:30) - age of diagnosis for autism vs. ADHD(0:15:00) - Autism and ADHD social difficulties (0:16:45) - role of mental health providers in diagnosis (0:20:10) - role of pediatricians in diagnosis (0:25:55) - intervention approaches for autism and ADHD(0:29:00) - neurodiversity in ADHD and autism (0:33:01) - co-occurring ADHD, Autism, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) (0:35:30) - parent training, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and biofeedback via the Mightier app (use DrCarrie for 10% off)(0:39:50) - evidence for stimulant medicationRESOURCES⚡️connect with and learn from Dr. Carrie Jackson >>Instagram @dr.carriejacksonTikTok @dr.carriejacksonResources for ADHD including free guides and courses: https://www.drcarriejackson.com/Private Practice for CA residents: https://www.socalchildpsych.com/⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*Please note: In this episode, there is a mix of identity-first (autistic child) and person-first language (child with ADHD) used. Some of this reflects differences within each specialty. Generally, as clinicians and practitioners, we are mindful to honor what each individual and their families prefer.

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses that even with the best preparation that some things may not go according to plan. emphasis is placed on how to manage emotions when plans change and the significance of giving space for feelings without guilt or blame. a focused discussion on how to support siblings of autistic children occurs.RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!a parent requested for me to share about the services that are provided through my private practice. and since this is often a common question, I decided to dedicate a Q+A episode to it! I dive into my concierge model, explain how pricing works, and describe the high level of care your child (and your family given The Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ) would receive. we review the three current services offered: diagnostic evaluation, 1:1 therapy, and group therapy.⚡️if you want to learn more, schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions. you can also visit drtaylorday.com.NOTE: at the time of recording (July 2023), I am currently able to practice in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY. additionally, SC and ND are expected to be added in the coming month! international families will be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on your country's regulations.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES⚡️ don't forget to subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss any of the free content I share! currently episodes are being published three times per week.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tayDISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇today is a first on the podcast! Dr. Tay engages in a candid conversation with Sam Marion, a late-identified autistic adult and licensed clinical social worker, who shares his personal experiences and perspectives on autism. they discuss the phenomenon of masking, the importance of understanding sensory experiences, and his personal journey of understanding himself. Sam also shares his views on neurodiversity, therapy modalities, and the need for resources and workshops to help therapists understand autism better. CHAPTERS(0:00:00) - introduction of the guest, Sam Marion, and discussion about his experiences as an autistic adult and journey as a therapist.(0:08:25) - understanding sensory experiences and autistic masking (0:15:40) - the exhaustion of masking and unmasking(0:19:02) - training and perspectives on neurodiversity(0:32:32) - key transition points in preteen and teen years(0:45:15) - discussion on the unique experiences of late-identified autistic adults, the importance of advocacy, and how to connect with SamRESOURCES⚡️follow Sam on Instagram @sammarioncounseling. and for more details on his workshops go to www.sammarion.com/workshops⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses the evolving field of telehealth evaluations in autism diagnosis. she provides insights from her clinical experience and explores how this method was accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. she addresses the validity and reliability of telehealth evaluations as well as benefits and potential limitations. RESOURCES⚡️ Dr. Tay currently conducts telehealth autism diagnostic evaluations in 38 states. schedule a free consult call here to learn more or email [email protected] for questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tayDISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: my child is 13 months old and has developmental delays. I'm concerned about autism. how do I know if it's autism or a developmental delay? my pediatrician says they won't start screening for autism until 18 months of age.A: Dr. Tay unpacks the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for autism screening and breaks down the science to address this question. in short, autism can be diagnosed accurately (for some but not all children) beginning at 14 months of age. practical next steps are provided, with encouragement to act early so your child can get necessary supports as soon as possible.RESOURCES⚡️ the research study referenced in today's episode: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31034004/ ⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇this is part two of my family's story. on this episode, I invited my mom, Letty, onto the podcast to share her perspective and reflect on what it was like listening to episode 16 | "I see you" - my story and introduction to autism, and why I chose my career path. she provides a raw and vulnerable account of my brother's early diagnosis, therapy, and beyond. we touch on the emotional impact, the societal pressures, the transformative effect on family dynamics, and the joys and lessons learned along the way. we hope you enjoy this candid conversation! I want to give a shout-out to my mom for her willingness to share so openly. this was truly special for both of us! if you find value, please share it with another autism parent or on your social media 🤍 we want to be able to help more families like yours and ours! RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As and connect with other parents >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay explores the delicate balance between evidence-based practices and more intuitive, alternative approaches, often dubbed as "woo woo." this episode emphasizes the importance of an open-minded approach to therapy that considers the unique needs and responses of each individual. we also discuss the potential conflict that sometimes arises between neurodivergent-affirming care and traditional evidence-based methods.RESOURCES⚡️ in this episode, two previous episodes were referenced: 37 | daring to embrace fear: personal stories and applications to parenting and 38 | redefining {autism} parenting through Human Design with Allison Cullen⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!we had a little bit of a different format inspired by my weekly AMA (ask me anything) on Instagram. we chatted through one family's current circumstances regarding parental acceptance and therapy decision-making. we explore the intricacies of this emotional journey, with tips on how to support each other through this process and acknowledge the importance of experiencing emotions at your own pace. we also chat through the sometimes daunting task of selecting the right therapeutic support for an autistic child. RESOURCES⚡️ book referenced in this episode >> An Early Start for Your Young Child with Autism⚡️ other episodes to dive further into themes from today >> on emotions [6, 15, 34]; on ABA [26]; on acceptance [28]⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this podcast episode, Dr. Tay and Dr. Abbie Jones of Blame Dr. Abbie discuss the intricate workings of the brain in relation to autism. Dr. Abbie provides insight into the three umbrellas of executive functioning: working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. the conversation also covers practical challenges with executive functioning and ways to identify EF deficits for your child. Dr. Jones, who has gained popularity on TikTok, offers usable information to help families navigate their autism journey.CHAPTERS(0:00:10) - introduction of guest Dr. Abbie Jones, a licensed psychologist specializing in executive functioning. (0:00:30) - explanation of the importance of understanding executive functioning for parents of autistic children. (0:14:58) - discussion on the three umbrellas of executive functioning - working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. (0:25:47) - detailed exploration of working memory and how its challenges can manifest in real-world situations for autistic children. (0:29:22) - strategies and advice on how parents can support their child's development of executive functions, with a focus on response inhibition, metacognition, and task initiation. (0:41:57) - introduction of the concept of psychoeducation and how it can be used to improve executive functioning at home, with discussion of Dr. Abbie's TikTok as being a source of usable information for parents.RESOURCES⚡️ follow Dr. Abbie on TikTok (@blamedr.abbie) and explore resources on her website: https://www.blamedoctorabbie.com/⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares two critical components your child needs to effectively benefit from intervention - regulation and engagement. we review different forms of dysregulation and discuss the importance of engagement for learning. practical tips and personal anecdotes from Dr. Tay's work as a child psychologist are shared.RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: how do I know if my child is nonverbal? what's the definition of nonverbal?A: Dr. Tay explores the complex topic of language development in autistic children. we discuss the terminology of nonverbal vs. nonspeaking as well as the potential negative impacts of labeling a child too early. emphasis is placed on celebrating every attempt your child makes to communicate and their unique journey of language acquisition. RESOURCES⚡️ this episode was inspired by posts in the Toddlers with Autism, GDD, & Speech Delay Facebook group⚡️book resource for supporting early communication development >> An Early Start for Your Young Child with Autism: Using Everyday Activities to Help Kids Connect, Communicate, and Learn⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tayDISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇in this episode, Dr. Tay and guest Allison Cullen (@youdowoo), take listeners on an in-depth exploration of Human Design - a unique blend of biochemistry, genetics, chakras, energy (through the role of neutrinos), and personality. the discussion unfolds to reveal how understanding Human Design can transform parenting and family dynamics. Allison explains the 5 different energy types that can equip parents to understand themselves and to connect with their children on a deeper level. the episode touches upon the emerging paradigm in which neurodivergence and energy communication will be even more prevalent, and how the science of Human Design can help individuals redefine themselves, their passions, and their relationships. CHAPTERS0:03:51 - an introduction to Human Design and the science behind it0:10:46 - the 5 different energy types and applications to parenting0:28:53 - how Human Design relates to autism and the unfolding paradigm shift (including for non-speaking autistic individuals)0:41:25 - parenting yourselfRESOURCES⚡️grab your free Human Design chart & cheat sheet here: https://youdowoo.mykajabi.com/human-design-cheat-sheet⚡️to dive in even further, book a 60-minute HD reading with Allison (use the code DRTAY20 for 20% off): https://youdowoo.mykajabi.com/60-minute-human-design-reading⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay explores the theme of fear and vulnerably shares her personal fears - originally around the fear of being seen and now the fear of making mistakes and not having all the answers (aka imperfection). she applies the lessons to your parenting and also details how leaning into fear has progressed her brand / business to serve autism families like yours.RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: how can parents better themselves before they support their child or during the process of their child's treatment? A: Dr. Tay shares the importance of dropping resistance and embracing the fact that seeking help for yourself benefits your child's therapy process. we discuss insights on creating space for your feelings, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing what's truly manageable for your family.RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇on today's episode, I am joined by developmental behavioral pediatricians Dr. Ayesha Cheema-Hasan and Dr. Angelica Robles of Coralis Health. we are aligned in our missions to provide high- quality care for families with neurodivergent children and to address system-wide issues in accessing autism care. we discuss the importance of advocating for your child and trusting your gut, as well as the roles of various medical professionals in diagnosing and providing intervention for autism. listen in as we touch on the differences between pediatricians and developmental behavioral pediatricians, the autism evaluation process, and medication vs. behavioral management.CHAPTERS(0:00:00) - introduction and the field of developmental behavioral pediatrics(0:12:36) - the importance of advocating for your child and the role of various providers in diagnosing and treating neurodevelopmental disorders (0:20:48) - accessing evidence-based care, details about the evaluation process, and the importance of understanding transition points in a child's life (0:28:39) - the role of medication and specialists in working with autistic youth.RESOURCES⚡️learn more about Coralis Health and Drs. Cheema-Hasan and Robles' mission >> coralishealth.us⚡️connect on Instagram with Coralis Health, Dr. Ayesha Cheema-Hasan @devpedsmd, and Dr. Angelica Robles @developmentalpedsdoc ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses the idea that constantly trying to be perfect, to have all the answers, and to "fix" everything can actually be counterproductive to your child's progress. we'll also touch on the importance of being present with your emotions and finding time for stillness in your daily life. RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: how do I know when to set a boundary for my autistic child versus accommodating their needs?A: setting boundaries and providing structure is essential for every child, including autistic children. Dr. Tay offers practical examples of proactive accommodations and dives into the difference between those and reactive accommodations. we also discuss the importance of understanding your child's developmental level and abilities in a regulated state to guide when accommodation is needed vs. reinforcement of a boundary is necessitated. RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇the short answer: TV did NOT make your child autistic! on this episode, Dr. Tay explores the idea of how TV can be beneficial for autistic children and their families, and how to leverage it in a way that promotes development. we also discuss why TV did not make your child autistic and why we need to stop parent shaming and creating guilt with this misinformation. RESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares how services being too focused on the autistic child can leave the family system unattended. we also touch upon the challenges of care coordination due to high caseloads, which can result in confusion and contradictory advice. and lastly, we discuss the problem of long waitlists that delay much-needed support for your child. the episode concludes with Dr. Tay sharing an innovative care approach to get access to high-quality services for your family now.RESOURCES⚡️listen to episode 21 for more information on neurodiversity-affirming care ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and the new group therapy services? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tayDISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

answering YOUR questions on today's episode!Q: do friendships look different for autistic individuals? how do I support them in making friends or recognize if they don't actually want them?A: yes, friendships for autistic individuals can differ due to their interests and understanding of social rules. to support them, help them find common interests with peers, teach social skills without forcing "social masking," respect their boundaries, and ask questions to understand their preferences and needs.RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

RESOURCES⚡️ follow Kelsey on Instagram @kelseykerslake and learn more about the Aligned Business⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-taySHOW NOTESIn this episode, Dr. Tay had the pleasure of speaking with her business coach, Kelsey Kerslake, about her journey through the autism diagnosis process for her son, Carter. Kelsey shares her initial concerns about Carter's development and how she followed her instincts after being told by a speech-language therapist that Carter didn't have autism.Listen in as Kelsey opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of the autism evaluation process, the struggles Carter faced with new situations, and the ultimate validation she felt after receiving the diagnosis. Also discussed is the impact of Kelsey's own ADHD diagnosis as well as how she created a business (and helps others too!) that allows her to prioritize Carter's needs without sacrificing success. Kelsey highlights the importance of trusting your instincts as a parent and seeking the right support for your child, and her experiences are a testament to the power of acceptance and hope in the autism journey.CHAPTERS0:04:50 - Navigating a speech delay 0:07:53 - Early signs of autism 0:12:28 - Seeking early intervention and an autism referral0:22:29 - What an autism evaluation can look like0:25:58 - Benefits of telehealth evaluations 0:34:50 - Navigating post-diagnosis and school supports 0:40:32 - Achieving balance as a business owner

in this mini episode inspired by "The Gap and the Gain" by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy, Dr. Tay addresses the struggles of finding joy that can arise as a parent of an autistic child. the key message revolves around shifting one's mindset from focusing on the gap, which is comparing a child's progress to neurotypical standards, to celebrating the child's progress and accomplishments.RESOURCES⚡️order "The Gap and The Gain" by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

in this mini episode, Dr. Tay explores the concept of embracing your gut instinct, announces an exciting change to the podcast format, and shares an important message for parents of autistic children on the importance of being present.RESOURCES ⚡️join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️learn from me and ask me questions >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> Anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismABA or applied behavior analysis therapy has become a controversial topic in the autism community. as a provider, and after listening to an immense amount of feedback in the field on this subject, I think it's important for you to understand the controversy in order to decide what's best for your family.in this episode, we deep dive into some of the concerns about ABA therapy. my ultimate goal is that you have informed consent as a parent. and then we discuss if you choose to pursue ABA, how you can advocate for ABA to be more aligned with neurodiversity-affirming care.this episode will help you learn:what ABA therapy ishow the autistic community feels about ABA therapyhow you can make the best decision for your child, as well as alternatives to this method of therapyresources mentioned in the episode to learn more >>Start Here: A guide for parents of autistic kidsAutistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN)want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? >> schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismI often see in my work as a child psychologist that parents don't understand what their rights are and what their autistic children should be receiving through the educational system. in this episode, we dive into IDEA, specially designed instruction, IEPs, 504s, and more. we talk specifically about the history of special education and what as a parent you can advocate for. it's important to recognize that a clinical diagnosis isn't the same as an educational diagnosis, so we're going through that educational process with my expert guest, Ashley Barlow, an attorney and former teacher. Ashley also has experience navigating special education as a parent, as her 13-year-old son, Jack, has Down Syndrome.this episode will help you learn:why the public education system has to provide support for your autistic childthe differences between an IEP and a 504 planinterest-based negotiation and knowing your rights as a parentspecific steps for how you can advocate for your autistic childways to connect with Ashley >>learn more about her free and affordable resources at ashleybarlowco.comfollow her on Instagram @ashleybarlowco and Facebook Ashley Barlow Cowant to learn more about The Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered through Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care? >> schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismhave you been considering an evaluation or are currently going through the diagnosis process? you may wonder if your child has autism or if there is another diagnosis that explains their behaviors.in this episode, I describe the process of "differential diagnosis." this is when professionals consider all symptoms and determine what is the best explanation of your child's behaviors. I'm giving you a peek into my diagnostic process so you can better understand how autism is assessed and how final diagnostic determinations are made.this episode will help you learn:what you should know going into an evaluationmore about other disorders that are considered as part of the evaluation, like ADHD, ODD, SPD, and anxietywhich diagnoses commonly overlap with autismnote: in the episode, I reference increased psychiatric medication use. the study I mentioned (Madden et al., 2017) indicated that autistic youth are nearly 11x more likely to be on psychiatric medication than their non-autistic peers.want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? >> schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismare you in obligation as a parent of an autistic child?you deserve to not feel constant stress as a parent. yes, you have extra responsibilities as an autism parent but these don’t have to create a feeling of obligation. in this episode, we're exploring the difference between obligation vs. responsibilities and how your thoughts about your to-do list affect the way you feel and therefore affect the way you take action.this episode will help you learn:the steps and stages of the obligation cyclehow you can start to make changes to get yourself out of the cyclethree strategies you can implement on a day-to-day basiswant to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? >> schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismhave you ever wondered what physical therapy addresses?in this episode, I'm speaking to physical therapist Cynthia Hughell about the ins and outs of physical therapy for autistic children. we discuss different areas that can be addressed and understand how to best support your child's body to avoid physical stress and strain.this episode will help you learn:about developmental milestones and when to seek physical therapy for your childcommon areas physical therapists address in sessions with autistic childrena physical therapist's approach to toe walkingwhat parents can do outside of physical therapy sessionsconnect with Cynthia on TikTok @vidakidstherapy for more free physical therapy content.want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? >> schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, both identity-first (autistic child) and person-first language (child with autism / ASD) are used. although as clinicians and practitioners we are slowly learning to shift our language and take the lead from the autistic community, the stance of this podcast is that we ultimately want to honor what each child and family prefer.

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismhave you ever asked yourself if your autistic child is getting the highest quality care? if you should be doing more? if what you are doing is best for your child?in this episode, we're talking about the components of autism care to help you understand what to advocate for in terms of your child, yourself, and your family. I'm giving you a look behind the scenes and what I believe is essential for a high level of care for neurodivergent children and their families so you, too, know what to look for and where to advocate for more support. this episode will help you learn:the concepts of evidence-based care and neurodiversity affirming carewhy the work you do outside of your sessions is the most important piecewhat you can do if you feel you're not getting the right support for your child or familywant to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? >> schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.book referenced in this episode >> An Early Start for Your Young Child with Autismother places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismhave you ever wondered if you need to be changing your child's diet once they've been diagnosed as autistic? how do you know when dietary supports are needed?in this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nina-Marie Rueda, a naturopath and nutritional expert who works with families of neurodivergent children. in our conversation, we get into the nitty gritty on myths and truths about dietary recommendations for autistic children, the importance of a healthy conversations around food and mealtime, and common problems that may result from nutritional and physiological imbalances.this episode will help you learn:the definition of a naturopath and what health factors are assessed by naturopathic doctorstheories on dietary shifts to best support neurodivergent children a breakdown of what different nutritional tests mean and example recommendations for dietary changes for maximum nutritional benefitconnect with Dr. Nina-Marie on Instagram @doctorninamarie.want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered >> drtaylorday.com or email [email protected] if you would like to schedule a consult call.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, both identity-first (autistic child) and person-first language (child with autism / ASD) are used. although as clinicians and practitioners we are slowly learning to shift our language and take the lead from the autistic community, the stance of this podcast is that we ultimately want to honor what each child and family prefer. Dr. Nina-Marie shares her perspective as a parent as well as some of the families she has worked with.

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismthis week's episode is an inspired follow-up to episode 16, where I shared my personal story. I provide three tips for increasing support for your non-autistic children. specifically, we dive into the importance of talking about autism, focusing on quality time, and establishing boundaries for all of your children.and the prequel to these three steps is to support yourself first (more coming soon on the podcast!). in the meantime, learn more about how your brain thinks. by doing so, you can begin to shift your sabotaging thought patterns to ones that serve you. take the free habits of thinking assessment and we can set up a free call to review your results.want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered >> drtaylorday.com or email [email protected] if you would like to schedule a consult call.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismwe talk a lot about sensory aspects in autism, but how do you know if your child has challenges with that and what should you do?sensory elements and factors can really impact your autistic* child's daily life, and sometimes these can be triggers for things like emotion dysregulation, attention, or even difficulty with transitions.this week, I'm joined by Dr. Sam Goldman, an expert in autism and the sensory systems. in this episode, we cover the eight (yes, eight!) senses. we also discuss different types of sensory difficulties and examples of how this may be showing up in your child's life.this episode will help you: understand what occupational therapy will help to addresslearn how to identify sensory challengesdiscuss how to support your child in sensory regulationfollow Dr. Sam Goldman @drsamgoldman to stay connected. she also has her program, Making Sense of Eating, for parents to work on sensory elements of eating as well as her podcast (check out her recent series on all things sensory, Sensory 101 - Sensory 404)more resources from Dr. Sam mentioned in this episode>>Self-Regulation Freebie for parentsFavorite books: Sensational Kids, The Out-of-Sync Childwant to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered >> drtaylorday.com or email [email protected] if you would like to schedule a consult call.other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, both identity-first (autistic child) and person-first language (child with autism) are used. although as clinicians and practitioners we are slowly learning to shift our language and take the lead from the autistic community, the stance of this podcast is that we ultimately want to honor what each child and family prefer.

join the evolve Facebook community to participate in the weekly Q+A >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautismdoes your child struggle with sleep?sleep is such a foundational piece to brain development, it is essential for mental health, and, yes, many autistic children struggle with falling and staying sleeping.this week, I'm joined by Courtney Zentz, pediatric sleep expert and certified sleep coach. Courtney shares her personal experiences with postpartum anxiety and depression and how she got into helping parents create better sleep routines and environments for kids with sleep difficulties.this episode will help you: understand some of the reasoning behind sleep difficulties in childrengain tips and tricks for how to tackle nighttime and sleepunderstand how you can work on this at home, but also know when support is neededfollow Tiny Transitions for more information and help with sleep @tinytransitions or visit tinytransitions.com.more resources from Courtney mentioned in this episode >>Freebie Resource Library: https://tinytransitions.com/learn/ Free Preliminary Sleep Assessment: https://tinytransitions.com/contact_sleep_consultant connect with Raline Sexton, autism sleep specialist: https://tinytransitions.com/slumber-squad/raline/ other places you can learn from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay