Divergent Conversations (Megan Neff & Patrick Casale)

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 Dr. Mel Houser (she/they), an autistic family physician, 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: https://allbrainsbelong.org  Instagram: @allbrainsbelongvt Check out All Brains Belong’s new project: Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic & ADHD Adults 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: https://allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things  —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 & 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: equilibriumcs.com 20% off my course Becoming a Neurodivergent Affirming Therapist (code: DC20): Neurodivergenttherapist.mykajabi.com Jamie’s book Mindfulness for Teen Anxiety: equilibriumcs.com/store/p/mindfulness-for-teen-anxiety-a-practical-guide-to-manage-stress-ease-worry-and-find-calm Instagram: @neurodivergenttherapist Jamie’s masterclass with Neurodivergent Insights is also now available! learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/mindfulness-for-teen-anxiety —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor: The Receptionist for iPad ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: fidgetsandfries.co Tiffany’s Book: adaywithnowords.com Instagram: instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries  Facebbok: Facebook.com/fidgetsandfries Pre-Order Self-Care For Autistic People:  Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order Self-Care for Autistic People you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here: newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor: The Receptionist for iPad ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: https://counselingcommunity.com  Jennifer’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/destination.ce.retreats  Jennifer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselingcommunity —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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:  Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order Self-Care for Autistic People you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here: newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor: The Receptionist for iPad ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: neurodivergentinsights.com/resources —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sensory meltdowns and shutdowns can be deeply misunderstood and unsettling experiences, whether you've faced them personally or seen a loved one struggle. For many Autistic individuals, dealing with overwhelming sensory stimuli is a recurring battle. The space between feeling in control and experiencing a complete sensory meltdown or shutdown can be alarmingly narrow, with profound impacts on personal well-being and relationships. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, share their insights and experiences with Autistic sensory meltdowns and shutdowns, including strategies and signs discussed through a clinical and personal lens. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain an understanding of what sensory meltdowns and shutdowns actually feel like, which Dr. Neff and Patrick describe through their vulnerable firsthand accounts, helping to break down the barriers of misunderstanding and stigma. Learn about practical coping mechanisms that can be employed during sensory meltdowns, such as intense physical activity, hot showers, and other grounding techniques, to help regain a sense of balance and control. Discover how to manage and anticipate shutdown triggers, through discussions on sensory self-care, proactive avoidance of overwhelming environments, and the utilization of sensory soothing tools, contributing to a more harmonious interaction with the world. As you reflect on these discussions, try to recognize the bravery and resilience that comes with managing neurodivergent challenges. Be kind to yourself or your neurodivergent loved ones; embrace the coping strategies that work, and continue to learn and adapt. Resources: Check out Dr. Neff’s new book, Self-Care for Autistic People. Learn more about the book: neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care-for-autistic-people To take advantage of the pre-order special: newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care (available throughout the month of March 2024) —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental health care field can be so overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients as well as take adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and it takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients.  Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Creativity is a medium of expression and connection that often works well for neurodivergent individuals. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Bret Malley about the intersection of autism and creativity. Bret shares his journey of autism advocacy, inspired by the desire to support his son, using creative outlets, as well as shares his process and inspiration for creating a documentary that seeks to provide a more authentic understanding of autism, reflecting on the creative process and the balance of vulnerability and representation that comes with such a responsibility. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand the importance of presence and how creative endeavors can help individuals, particularly those with autism and ADHD, to feel more connected and alive amidst the struggles of an overactive mind or an uncooperative body. Learn about the role that environmental factors can play for Autistic individuals in the ability to concentrate and be present in work, as well as the benefits of creating a designated space and time to dedicate to entering a zone of hyperfocused creativity (or the “vortex” as described by Megan Anna). Identify how from the devastation of the pandemic there was also a rise in virtual engagements that fostered unexpected creative synergies and closer relationships. Creativity and art can be powerful means for autism advocacy and personal expression. Think about how your creative expression can affect how you connect with the world around you, and lead to more compassion and understanding. More about Bret: Bret Malley is an award-winning filmmaker, full-time career and technical educator, college professor in Visual Communications and Multimedia Arts, professional photographer, and author of Adobe Master Class; Advanced Compositing in Adobe Photoshop CC. See Bret’s work at BretMalley.com Donate to the Film: thedivergentgift.com Instagram: @thedivergentgift YouTube: youtube.com/@TheDivergentGift Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089547930854 Resources: Check out Dr. Neff’s new book, Self-Care for Autistic People: neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care-for-autistic-people Take advantage of the pre-order special: newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care (available throughout March 2024) Use coupon code “DivergentGift” at Neurodivergent Insights to receive 25% off on purchases. This code ensures that 20% of your purchase directly supports the film. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental health care field can be so overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients as well as take adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and it takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A traditional workplace can be really challenging for neurodivergent individuals, and if a workplace culture is made to be one-size-fits-all, the chances are high that it won’t fit for many neurodivergent people. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Lyric Rivera, founder of NeuroDivergent Consulting, author, and later-in-life diagnosed AuDHD person, about how to create neurodivergent-affirming spaces, including in the workplace and in online communities. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand the essential need to reframe our workplace cultures to not just accommodate but truly embrace the strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. Discover the nuanced challenges adults face with a later-in-life neurodivergent discovery, including unraveling the web of self-deprecating beliefs to shift to self-compassion and understanding. Learn how to implement neurodivergent-friendly practices in the workplace and communities that can lead to more open communication, allow people to play to their strengths, and give individuals the resources and environment they need to show up as their best. There is still a lot of work to be done to create workplaces and other spaces that truly embrace and accommodate neurodiversity, but by implementing Lyric’s suggestions, we can start leaning into people’s strengths and allow for more growth, better solutions, and spaces that feel safe and welcoming. More about Lyric Rivera: Lyric Rivera is the founder of NeuroDivergent Consulting and author of the best-selling business ethics book Workplace Neurodiversity Rising, named “Trend for 2023” and praised in Forbes as “an excellent ‘how to manual’ based on lived Experience and professional competence.” Lyric also runs the blog NeuroDivergent Rebel and is known as the pioneer of the #AskingAutistics hashtag. Buy Lyric’s Book: books2read.com/neurodiversity-rising Website: neurodivergentrebel.com Facebook: facebook.com/NeurodivergentRebel Substack: neurodivergentrebel.substack.com Threads: threads.net/@neurodivergentrebel YouTube: youtube.com/@NeurodivergentRebel TikTok: tiktok.com/@.neurodivergentrebel Resources: Check out Dr. Neff’s new book, Self-Care for Autistic People, here: neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care-for-autistic-people —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental health care field can be so overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients as well as take adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and it takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Burnout can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable, as well as look and mean very different things when you approach it from the lens of neurodiversity, where the meanings, causes, and coping mechanisms become very nuanced. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Ann Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, explore the landscape of burnout, seasonal depression, and the importance of strategic withdrawal, offering solace and understanding to those who tread these difficult terrains. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Identify how what we call burnout might be related to co-occurring health conditions, such as alexithymia, chronic fatigue syndrome, seasonal depression, etc., and possibly require different approaches. Shed light on internalized ableism and grief, and how recognizing and honoring your limitations can be both a struggle and a profound form of self-care. Learn strategies for addressing burnout that are tailored to neurodivergent individuals, as well as how to communicate your needs to the people around you to protect your energy without causing worry. Remember that acknowledging and respecting your brain's unique wiring isn't a sign of weakness — it's a brave act of self-compassion. Reflect on how you can implement these lessons into your life, honor your natural rhythms, and create your own Ulysses pacts with yourself and trusted people to safeguard your future self. Let's continue this conversation and support each other in our collective journeys towards mental harmony. Resources: Check out the article “A conceptual model of risk and protective factors for autistic burnout” by Jane Mantzalas, Amanda Richdale, and Cheryl Dissanayake here: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359924348_A_conceptual_model_of_risk_and_protective_factors_for_autistic_burnout Citation: Mantzalas, J., Richdale, A. L., & Dissanayake, C. (2022). A conceptual model of risk and protective factors for autistic burnout. Autism research : official journal of the International Society for Autism Research, 15(6), 976–987. https://doi.org/10.1002/aur.2722 —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental health care field can be so overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients as well as take adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and it takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is autism? This question comes up a lot these days, and conversations around autism are extremely nuanced, making it hard to pinpoint one right way of looking at it, so let’s explore autism from what it means historically and clinically to how it represents identity, and all the things in between. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, start the conversation around autism with an honest and insightful discussion about “what is autism” and the intricacies of social interactions experienced by those on the spectrum. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain insights into the realities of social motivation and its challenges as our hosts reveal their personal struggles with engaging in conversations, especially when they're not “interesting” enough to fuel the interaction. Understand the profound impact of autistic culture on communication forms, with Dr. Neff and Patrick breaking down the DSM-5 criteria of reciprocity, and offering their own thoughts on the criteria including a counterview of how care can be expressed in unique, meaningful ways for Autistic people. Delve into the transforming neurodiversity landscape and consider how our language choices and the metaphors we use to understand autism can influence identity and self-perception, potentially shifting away from deficit-focused narratives. To start to answer the question of “what is autism,” it’s important to consider the layers of effort and adaptation that accompany social encounters and reflect on your communication style. Resources: For this conversation, we are using Is This Autism By Dr. Donna Hendreson, Dr. Sarah Wayland, and Dr. Jamell White. You can find it here. The publisher is giving our listeners a special coupon during this series! Use Code: NDI24 to get 30% off and free shipping Valid through 6-Jul 2024 (must purchase using this link) We’ll be reading this book for our book club in June in the Neurodivergent Learning Nook. Learn more about our community here. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM. There have been a lot of very thoughtful critiques of the DSM in the last several years, including how autism is presented in the DSM as very deficit-based. We do not align with that view, but we did use that as a framework to walk through our experience of autism and to unpack the many ways that those criteria could show up in a person. This is our attempt to help demystify the process of diagnosis. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can focus on helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating social relationships can be a complex, nuanced journey for Autistic people, and the way it presents in day-to-day interactions and situations is incredibly diverse. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the complexities of friendship management for Autistic individuals, as well as explore the connection between relationships and common Autistic traits such as repetitive behavior, difficulty with flexibility, special interests that are intense or atypical, and sensory differences. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Unpack the different ways in which autistic individuals experience and navigate social connections, finding out why that can differ so greatly from neurotypical expectations. Explore the challenges and distinct profiles of autistic social interactions, diving into the importance of understanding the role of social motivation and casing light on the often invisible energy it requires to maintain connections. Gain insight into the world of special interests and repetitive behaviors, showcased through the personal experiences of Patrick and Dr. Neff. As you journey through the intricacies of Autistic social interactions, take a moment to reflect on the unique ways in which people communicate and connect, perhaps finding a new understanding of your own social narrative. Resources: For this conversation, we are using Is This Autism By Dr. Donna Hendreson, Dr. Sarah Wayland, and Dr. Jamell White. You can find it here. But wait... The publisher is giving our listeners a special coupon during this series! Use Code: NDI24 to get 30% off and free shipping Valid through 6-Jul 2024 (must purchase using this link) We’ll be reading this book for our book club in June in the Neurodivergent Learning Nook. Learn more about our community here. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM. There have been a lot of very thoughtful critiques of the DSM in the last several years, including how autism is presented in the DSM as very deficit-based. We do not align with that view, but we did use that as a framework to walk through our experience of autism and to unpack the many ways that those criteria could show up in a person. This is our attempt to help demystify the process of diagnosis, which has historically been very obscure and hard to understand. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental health care field can be so overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients as well as take adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For many Autistic individuals, the consistency of routines isn't just nice, it's a way to accommodate the sensory needs of their systems. Routines are reflected internally and externally, and the disruption of these routines can result in great distress. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about the comfort and chaos of daily routines and rituals, shedding light on the importance and challenges of these patterns in the lives of Autistic individuals. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain insight into all-or-nothing thinking, including its role in providing predictability and comfort. Learn how this way of thinking influences ideology, relationships, and advocacy efforts, and why we need more nuanced conversations. Hear about how the struggle with flexibility can manifest differently for adolescent girls and boys, making it difficult to identify autism, leading to misunderstanding and overlooking what's going on. Explore personal stories from Patrick and Dr. Neff that illuminate the daily struggles of inflexibility and routine disruption, such as dealing with last-minute plan changes and the perplexing difficulty of seemingly simple tasks. Consider your routines: what keeps you grounded and how you manage when faced with the unexpected. Understanding the role of routines in the lives of Autistic individuals can help create more compassion and patience for ourselves and the people around us. Resources: For this conversation, we are using Is This Autism By Dr. Donna Hendreson, Dr. Sarah Wayland, and Dr. Jamell White. You can find it here. But wait... The publisher is giving our listeners a special coupon during this series! Use Code: NDI24 to get 30% off and free shipping Valid through 6-Jul 2024 (must purchase using this link) We’ll be reading this book for our book club in June in the Neurodivergent Learning Nook. Learn more about our community here. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM. There have been a lot of very thoughtful critiques of the DSM in the last several years, including how autism is presented in the DSM as very deficit-based. We do not align with that view, but we did use that as a framework to walk through our experience of autism and to unpack the many ways that those criteria could show up in a person. This is our attempt to help demystify the process of diagnosis, which has historically been very obscure and hard to understand. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating a world packed with all sorts of seemingly mismatched sensations, either overstimulating or understimulating, and having passionate interests that can appear as all-consuming to others, can be challenging and greatly impact the way we build relationships and even just get through the day. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about the nuances and misconceptions surrounding special interests and sensory experiences for Autistic people. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Learn about the role of special interests in fostering connections for Autistic individuals, and how personal sensory nuances impact relationships with oneself and the world around them. Gain insights into how to create more inclusive autism assessments that acknowledge the diverse experiences of Autistic individuals, including behaviors, sensory experiences, or interests that might be more stereotypically associated with allistic individuals. Understand the different sensory systems and explore the broad spectrum of sensory experiences that influence everything from social interactions and relationships to meeting basic necessities of food, clothes, and shelter. Think about how we all experience the world differently and why it's important to make space for those differences so that we can honor who we are and have more compassion for one another. Resources: For this conversation, we are using Is This Autism By Dr. Donna Hendreson, Dr. Sarah Wayland, and Dr. Jamell White. You can find it here. But wait... The publisher is giving our listeners a special coupon during this series! Use Code: NDI24 to get 30% off and free shipping Valid through 6-Jul 2024 (must purchase using this link) We’ll be reading this book for our book club in June in the Neurodivergent Learning Nook. Learn more about our community here. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM. There have been a lot of very thoughtful critiques of the DSM in the last several years, including how autism is presented in the DSM as very deficit-based. We do not align with that view, but we did use that as a framework to walk through our experience of autism and to unpack the many ways that those criteria could show up in a person. This is our attempt to help demystify the process of diagnosis, which has historically been very obscure and hard to understand. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Freed & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Freed: I would also like to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is an often misunderstood and misdiagnosed condition and yet has a profound impact on the lives of the people who are experiencing it. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jes Hagen, a nutritional therapist and integrative menstrual health educator and coach, to explore hormonal imbalances, their impact on mental health, including ADHD and bipolar, and the benefit of integrative approaches to these issues. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain an in-depth understanding of the hormonal cycles and how fluctuations affect conditions like PMDD and ADHD, which can drastically impact day-to-day living and mental health. Learn about the challenges and limitations of traditional medical approaches to these hormonal and neurodevelopmental conditions and the potential for integrative medicine to offer more tailored and effective management strategies. Discover practical insights and tools for managing PMDD through dietary choices, lifestyle changes, and symptom tracking. Reflect on the influence of hormones on your mental health and well-being, and consider how awareness and proactive management of these natural processes might enhance your quality of life. About Jess Hagen: Jes is a nutritional therapist, NBC-HWC board-certified integrative menstrual health educator, and coach, who is also the founder of Her Mood Mentor, a virtual premenstrual clinic. Her own experience of PMDD which nearly cost her her life, has fueled her determination to guide thousands of students toward reduced symptom duration and severity. Grab the Free Symptom Mapping Kit Website: hermoodmentor.com Instagram: @hermoodmentor  Youtube: youtube.com/@hermoodmentor PDF Resources Symptom Mapper ADHD+PMDD Venn Diagram HMM Menstrual Phase Graphics —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe, Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe: I want to thank Madam Clutterbuckets for sponsoring this episode. This family-owned business has created a store that not only celebrates the value of neurodiversity but also employs neurodivergent workers. They sell disability advocacy merchandise, work from neurodivergent artists, and products from companies that employ neurodivergent workers. They also have curated vintage oddities, fidgets, and outrageous merch that makes you laugh out loud. They are located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, or you can check them out at madamclutterbuckets.com, and use code GIMME10 for 10% off $25 purchases or more. ✨ Freed: I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Autism and eating disorders have a complex relationship that for years has been overlooked often resulting in traumatic approaches to recovery and a misunderstanding of the experience and mindset of Autistic individuals struggling with disordered eating. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Livia Sara, a recognized autism advocate in the eating disorder recovery space, about the relationships between autism, eating disorders, and the neurodivergent experience. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain a deeper understanding of how eating disorders manifest differently in the neurodivergent community, including unique challenges and how Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) can be mistaken for eating disorders. Explore the power of autonomy and control in the context of both fueling disordered eating and being the deciding factor in recovery within the neurodivergent framework. Hear firsthand accounts of struggles with and recovery from eating disorders, addiction, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms to seek control of a body that feels foreign. About Livia Sara: Livia is an autism advocate and eating disorder survivor who now helps others overcome their mental barriers through her courses, coaching programs, and books. She is the creator behind the blog livlabelfree.com and the host of The Liv Label Free Podcast. Livia is a lifelong learner who loves listening to audiobooks, going on walks, and reading the latest science on all things neurodiversity and eating disorders! Website: livlabelfree.com Books: livlabelfreebooks.com Instagram: @livlabelfree Podcast: Liv Label Free | Autism and Eating Disorder Recovery Article and infographic collaboration between Liv and Dr. Neff: Anorexia vs. ARFID Venn Diagram: neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/anorexia-and-arfid —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe, Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe: I want to thank Madam Clutterbuckets for sponsoring this episode. This family-owned business has created a store that not only celebrates the value of neurodiversity but also employs neurodivergent workers. They sell disability advocacy merchandise, work from neurodivergent artists, and products from companies that employ neurodivergent workers. They also have curated vintage oddities, fidgets, and outrageous merch that makes you laugh out loud. They are located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, or you can check them out at madamclutterbuckets.com, and use code GIMME10 for 10% off $25 purchases or more. ✨ Freed: I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over. No more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love — helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When parenting a neurodivergent child or young adult, traditional approaches don't always fit. Balancing the unique needs with the world's expectations can feel isolating and overwhelming. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, speak with Lisa Dube, LCSW and founder of Merrimack River Wellness, about the nuances of parenting, supporting, and understanding neurodivergent children, particularly those exploring their gender identity. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand how to recognize and support the fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses in neurodivergent children, helping you to interpret their behaviors through a more informed and empathetic lens. Gain insights into the intersection of gender identity and neurodivergence, encouraging a curious and non-judgmental approach to parenting that embraces and respects your child's identity exploration. Discover practical advice on avoiding the "failure to launch" stereotype and fostering an environment of interdependence through "scaffolding,” particularly useful for parents of neurodivergent young adults. Reflect on how to bring these strategies into your family dynamics to strengthen the bond with your child. Consider how your parenting approach can evolve to actively enrich the journey of raising a neurodivergent child. About Lisa Dube Lisa is a neurodivergent LCSW who worked for the U.S. District Court for over 20 years as a treatment specialist before establishing a private practice focused on the needs of families and individuals navigating gender identity exploration and transition. Lisa has a special interest in supporting parents in developing new narratives and ways of connecting with their young adult autistic children who may be challenged with the transition to adulthood. Website: merrimackriverwellness.com Instagram: @merrimackriverwellness —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe, Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe: I want to thank Madam Clutterbuckets for sponsoring this episode. This family-owned business has created a store that not only celebrates the value of neurodiversity but also employs neurodivergent workers. They sell disability advocacy merchandise, work from neurodivergent artists, and products from companies that employ neurodivergent workers. They also have curated vintage oddities, fidgets, and outrageous merch that makes you laugh out loud. They are located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, or you can check them out at madamclutterbuckets.com, and use code GIMME10 for 10% off $25 purchases or more. ✨ Freed: I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the identification, assessment, and diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can be confusing and overwhelming. This mini-series on ADHD focuses on demystifying the diagnostic criteria and making the process clearer and more understandable. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, dive into ADHD, breaking down what it means. This episode lays the groundwork for their upcoming series focused on ADHD. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Get an overview of the often misunderstood and oversimplified traits of ADHD, from executive functioning challenges to emotional hyperarousal. Hear personal stories from Patrick and Dr. Neff as they reflect on their own ADHD experiences and how misdiagnoses and societal stereotypes can cloud self-understanding. Discover the interconnectedness and overlapping traits between ADHD and autism, helping to clarify common misconceptions and pave the way for more nuanced discussions. This episode sets the stage for our mini-series on ADHD.  DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5. Resources: ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures PDF: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe, Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe I want to thank Madam Clutterbuckets for sponsoring this episode. This family-owned business has created a store that not only celebrates the value of neurodiversity but also employs neurodivergent workers. They sell disability advocacy merchandise, work from neurodivergent artists, and products from companies that employ neurodivergent workers. They also have curated vintage oddities, fidgets, and outrageous merch that makes you laugh out loud. They are located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, or you can check them out at madamclutterbuckets.com, and use code GIMME10 for 10% off $25 purchases or more. ✨ Freed I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADHD has many nuances and is often misunderstood and stereotyped. In an attempt to better understand the ways ADHD can present in daily life, this episode uses the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as a framework for discussion—this is not an endorsement of the DSM-5. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about the DSM-5 criteria for the inattentive subtype of ADHD, as well as share their personal experiences. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD, offering a deeper understanding of the inattentive, combined, and hyperactive subtypes. Hear about Dr. Neff and Patrick’s struggles with inattentive traits of ADHD, including household chores, daily activities, the overwhelming feeling of decision fatigue, and the resulting “ADHD Tax.” Discover some ways that Patrick and Dr. Neff cope with the day-to-day struggles of ADHD, from managing time and prioritizing tasks to overcoming the hurdles of incomplete projects and decision fatigue. As you listen, you might find parts of these criteria and stories that resonate with your own life, whether you have ADHD or simply face similar struggles. We encourage you to stay curious about your own experiences and continue exploring these important topics. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5. Resources: ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures PDF: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: D.Rowe Co., Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ D.Rowe Co. I want to thank D.Rowe Co. for sponsoring this episode. D.Rowe Co. (which includes D.Rowe Tax LLC and D.Rowe Law PLLC) offers tax, law, and accounting services designed for creative and personal support industries. With both academic and practical experience from well-established businesses to start-ups, they offer support through top-level expertise and a fresh approach to client service. Check out their free webinar on June 17th at noon ET by visiting droweco.com. Use code DC10 to get 10% off services at droweco.com. ✨ Freed I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADHD hyperactive traits are often misunderstood and the DSM-5’s portrayal of this type is heavily geared toward children and adolescents, which can make it harder to understand and address in adulthood. In an attempt to better understand the ways ADHD can present in daily life, this episode uses the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as a framework for discussion—this is not an endorsement of the DSM-5. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the ADHD hyperactive type and share their personal experiences. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Learn about the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD hyperactive type and hear personal stories about managing these behaviors in social and professional settings. Gain insight into the concept of masking in ADHD, explore the internal struggle to self-monitor and achieve time equity in conversations, and understand its impact on relationships. Discover the challenges and strategies for being present in the moment, channeling hyperactive energy, and addressing the grief associated with limited movement as a result of aging or injuries. As you listen, you might find parts of these criteria and stories that resonate with your own life, whether you have ADHD or simply face similar struggles. We encourage you to stay curious about your own experiences and continue exploring these important topics. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5. Resources: ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures PDF: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: D.Rowe Co., Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ D.Rowe Co. I want to thank D.Rowe Co. for sponsoring this episode. D.Rowe Co. (which includes D.Rowe Tax LLC and D.Rowe Law PLLC) offers tax, law, and accounting services designed for creative and personal support industries. With both academic and practical experience from well-established businesses to start-ups, they offer support through top-level expertise and a fresh approach to client service. Check out their free webinar on June 17th at noon ET by visiting droweco.com. Use code DC10 to get 10% off services at droweco.com. ✨ Freed I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADHD often brings unique challenges with impulsive behaviors which can make everyday interactions and tasks more complex. In an attempt to better understand the ways ADHD can present in daily life, this episode uses the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as a framework for discussion—this is not an endorsement of the DSM-5. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricate dynamics of impulsivity in ADHD, blending personal experiences with clinical insights. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Explore the differences and connections between impulsivity and hyperactivity in the DSM-5, and understand how these traits can manifest differently in adults versus children. Gain a deeper understanding of how impulsivity can impact various aspects of life, from relationships to career choices, and hear about ways to channel this energy positively. Understand how the DSM-5 criteria is used to determine an ADHD diagnosis. As you listen, you might find parts of these criteria and stories that resonate with your own life, whether you have ADHD or simply face similar struggles. We encourage you to stay curious about your own experiences and continue exploring these important topics. DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5. Resources: ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures PDF: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: D.Rowe Co., Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ D.Rowe Co. I want to thank D.Rowe Co. for sponsoring this episode. D.Rowe Co. (which includes D.Rowe Tax LLC and D.Rowe Law PLLC) offers tax, law, and accounting services designed for creative and personal support industries. With both academic and practical experience from well-established businesses to start-ups, they offer support through top-level expertise and a fresh approach to client service. Check out their free webinar on June 17th at noon ET by visiting droweco.com. Use code DC10 to get 10% off services at droweco.com. ✨ Freed I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the world with ADHD can present unique challenges, particularly when it comes to motivation and productivity. Whether it's the difficulty of getting started on mundane tasks or the complexities of staying engaged over time, the rollercoaster of emotional ups and downs can be hard to manage. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricacies of the ADHD interest-based nervous system, how it impacts daily life, and practical ways to enhance motivation and productivity. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Discover effective techniques to manage your interest-based nervous system, from creating engaging environments to the use of dopamine stacking. Gain insights into different approaches for handling mundane tasks like household chores, including the concept of body doubling and competition. Learn how the 5 motivators encapsulated in the acronym P.I.N.C.H. (Passion [discussed in terms of Play for this episode], Interest, Novelty, Competition/Collaboration/Connection, and Hurry Up) can influence your actions and help overcome procrastination and anxiety. Try exploring ways to incorporate the 5 motivators for the ADHD system into your environment and approach to tasks. Understanding your unique nervous system is a step toward having more engagement and productivity, even when facing understimulating tasks. Resources: Visit vs. Force-Based Approach to ADHD: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/power-of-a-visit Interest-Based Nervous System Article: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/interest-based-nervous-system Interest-Based Nervous System And ADHD Workbook: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/interest-based-nervous-system —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: D.Rowe Co., Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ D.Rowe Co. I want to thank D.Rowe Co. for sponsoring this episode. D.Rowe Co. (which includes D.Rowe Tax LLC and D.Rowe Law PLLC) offers tax, law, and accounting services designed for creative and personal support industries. With both academic and practical experience from well-established businesses to start-ups, they offer support through top-level expertise and a fresh approach to client service. Check out their free webinar on June 17th at noon ET by visiting droweco.com. Use code DC10 to get 10% off services at droweco.com. ✨ Freed I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s common for ADHDers to feel these waves of inspiration that may lead to a romanticized version of the future that would come by acting on them. However, if action is taken, it alternatively might be accompanied by the ADHD tax—financial burden, over-commitment, broken dreams and promises, feelings of guilt and regret, etc. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the concept of the ADHD tax and its impact on various facets of life such as time, money, and relationships. Both hosts share their personal experiences and practical tips on how to better manage impulsivity, as well as explore the impact of standard marketing practices on impulsive action. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain valuable insights into how the ADHD tax manifests in everyday life, from impulsive travel bookings to forgotten groceries, and learn strategies to prevent and mitigate these financial and emotional costs. Hear about the intricate balance of excitement and capacity in neurodivergent collaborations. Dive into tips for managing overwhelming enthusiasm and the importance of slow productivity and setting boundaries. Learn ethical marketing practices that consider the needs of neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the importance of building relationships over manipulative sales tactics and creating a consumer-friendly environment. As you navigate the challenges of impulsivity and overstimulation, remember that understanding and implementing mindful strategies can help you lead a more balanced life. Take a moment to pause before making hasty decisions, and prioritize your well-being as you create a space where both your ideas and your downtime are respected. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: D.Rowe Co., Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ D.Rowe Co. I want to thank D.Rowe Co. for sponsoring this episode. D.Rowe Co. (which includes D.Rowe Tax LLC and D.Rowe Law PLLC) offers tax, law, and accounting services designed for creative and personal support industries. With both academic and practical experience from well-established businesses to start-ups, they offer support through top-level expertise and a fresh approach to client service. Check out their free webinar on June 17th at noon ET by visiting droweco.com. Use code DC10 to get 10% off services at droweco.com. ✨ Freed I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode. Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients. Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For ADHDers, romanticism is a common struggle where you find yourself constantly daydreaming about an ideal future and struggling with the reality of the present. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricacies of romanticizing experiences and the repercussions that come with it. As neurodivergent mental health professionals, they offer a unique perspective on how projecting ideal futures can create a disconnect with the present, leading to disappointment and restlessness. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Discover the impact of romanticizing future outcomes on mental health, particularly for those with ADHD and other neurodivergent traits, and how it can disrupt your ability to enjoy the present moment. Hear Dr. Neff and Patrick's personal stories about their struggles with restlessness and the unending need for new experiences, and learn how this affects their daily lives. Explore strategies to reconcile your idealized visions of the future with the messy reality of the present, and find out how to cultivate a sense of settled contentment. Take some time to reflect on your own tendencies to romanticize the future. Consider how this impacts your well-being and what steps you can take to stay grounded in the present and find balance one moment at a time. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: D.Rowe Co. & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ D.Rowe Co. I want to thank D.Rowe Co. for sponsoring this episode. D.Rowe Co. (which includes D.Rowe Tax LLC and D.Rowe Law PLLC) offers tax, law, and accounting services designed for creative and personal support industries. With both academic and practical experience from well-established businesses to start-ups, they offer support through top-level expertise and a fresh approach to client service. Check out their free webinar on June 17th at noon ET by visiting droweco.com. Use code DC10 to get 10% off services at droweco.com. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For adults questioning if they are Autistic, ADHD, etc., there is often an exploratory and somewhat confusing phase where they feel in between two different identities. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jak Levine-Pritzker, founder of Authentically ADHD LLC, about navigating identity when exploring the possibility of an autism diagnosis, as well as the effect of internalized ableism and external input during the assessment process. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Learn about Jak's experiences with the questioning of fitting into or out of diagnostic criteria, especially when examining overlapping traits between ADHD and autism. Gain insights into the nuances of the assessment process for neurodivergent conditions, exploring the quantitative and qualitative aspects beyond standardized tests. Discover the evolving understanding of neurotypes, including the impact of self-identification on assessments and the relevance of organizing principles like monotropism and flow state. As you reflect on your journey or support others, remember to ask questions, be mindful that neurodivergent experiences and diagnoses are full of grey areas, and keep an open mind if you seek a diagnosis. About Jak: Jak Levine-Pritzker(she/her) is an ADHD coach, mental health advocate, and founder of Authentically ADHD LLC. She empowers ADHDers to heal internalized ableism and shame and design a life that actually works for their brains using a strengths-based approach. Read Jak's full bio. Membership: authenticallyadhd.com/membership Website: authenticallyadhd.com Instagram: instagram.com/authenticallyadhd —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Web Therapia & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Web Therapia: I want to thank Web Therapia for sponsoring this episode. In today's competitive healthcare landscape, establishing a robust online presence is crucial for attracting new patients and expanding your practice. Web Therapia specializes in tailored digital marketing solutions specifically for doctors and therapists. From professional website design to effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and ADA compliance, they ensure your practice stands out in local and telehealth markets. Visit webtherapia.com, and mention this ad to get 10% off web design or SEO for the 1st month. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s natural to have a flood of questions following neurodivergent discovery, diagnosis, or while embracing a new identity. Additionally, there are individuals who might not identify as neurodivergent but just have curiosity about the very nuanced conversations happening in and around the neurodivergent community. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, respond to questions they have received from podcast listeners and their communities. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Hear Dr. Neff and Patrick share their “surprising” experiences and personal growth as podcast hosts, including overcoming anxiety, balancing preparation and spontaneity, working on relational aspects of podcasting, establishing and honoring boundaries, finding confidence, and more. Gain insights into the late autism diagnosis journey, including common identity development processes like unmasking, exploring gender and sexuality, and how this affects relationships, as well as advice for communicating your diagnosis to friends and family, managing their reactions, and deciding when and how to educate others. Learn about the legal and medical implications of an autism diagnosis, the genetic factors, and how understanding family history can provide deeper insights into your own neurodivergence. Your inquiries are invaluable, not just to you, but to countless others facing similar challenges. We will continue to have episodes like this in the future, so we appreciate your questions to help guide these future episodes. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Web Therapia & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Web Therapia: I want to thank Web Therapia for sponsoring this episode. In today's competitive healthcare landscape, establishing a robust online presence is crucial for attracting new patients and expanding your practice. Web Therapia specializes in tailored digital marketing solutions specifically for doctors and therapists. From professional website design to effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and ADA compliance, they ensure your practice stands out in local and telehealth markets. Visit webtherapia.com, and mention this ad to get 10% off web design or SEO for the 1st month. ✨ The Receptionist for iPad I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s natural to have questions following neurodivergent discovery, diagnosis, or while embracing a new identity. Additionally, some individuals might not identify as neurodivergent but are curious about the very nuanced conversations happening in and around the community. In this second Ask The Audience episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, respond to questions they've received from podcast listeners and their communities. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Dive into the controversial topic of whether "everyone is a little bit autistic" and understand why this statement can be harmful and dismissive to the autistic community. Gain insight into the nuances of language used to describe neurodivergence, including the pros and cons of terms like ASD, high functioning, and on the spectrum, and why identity-first language can be empowering. Explore the unique challenges and potential advantages of being an Autistic or ADHD therapist, and learn practical tips for preventing burnout and finding success in the field. As you navigate your neurodivergent journey, remember you are not alone. Your inquiries are invaluable, not just to you but to countless others like you. We will have more episodes like this, so we appreciate your questions. ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Web Therapia, Learning Nook,& The Receptionist for iPad ✨Web Therapia: Thanks to Web Therapia for sponsoring this episode. In today's competitive healthcare landscape, establishing a robust online presence is crucial for attracting new patients and expanding your practice. Web Therapia specializes in tailored digital marketing solutions specifically for doctors and therapists. From professional website design to effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and ADA compliance, they ensure your practice stands out in local and telehealth markets. Visit webtherapia.com, and mention this ad for 10% off web design or SEO for the 1st month. ✨Learning Nook: Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨The Receptionist for iPad Thanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Entrepreneurship can be an attractive alternative for neurodivergent individuals to the traditional 9–5 jobs that cater to a society that is systemically more accommodating to neurotypical needs. However, being a neurodivergent entrepreneur comes with its own challenges and triumphs, from managing executive functioning to dealing with burnout.  In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, introduce their new series on neurodivergent entrepreneurship, sharing their personal journeys and insights. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Get tips to balance the needs of different neurotypes in business, including ADHD’s need for creativity and excitement with the Autistic desire for structure to avoid burnout, as well as how to set boundaries that protect your mental health and values. Hear candid discussions on running a values-driven business, the moral injuries that can arise, and sustainable strategies for maintaining integrity while pursuing entrepreneurship. Discover the importance of failure as a data point and how adopting a value-aligned mindset can transform your entrepreneurial endeavors, especially when reevaluating business decisions. If you choose to pursue entrepreneurship, remember to prioritize your well-being, stay true to your values, and embrace growth through failure. ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Web Therapia & Learning Nook ✨Web Therapia Thanks to Web Therapia for sponsoring this episode. In today's competitive healthcare landscape, establishing a robust online presence is crucial for attracting new patients and expanding your practice. Web Therapia specializes in tailored digital marketing solutions specifically for doctors and therapists. From professional website design to effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and ADA compliance, they ensure your practice stands out in local and telehealth markets. Visit webtherapia.com, and mention this ad for 10% off web design or SEO for the 1st month. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Entrepreneurship can on the surface appear to bring the promise of freedom and autonomy, but it also comes with unique psychological challenges that many neurodivergent entrepreneurs struggle to navigate. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Dr. Corey Wilks, a psychologist and executive coach, about the intersection of psychology, entrepreneurship, and core values. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Discover how to leverage the "availability paradox" to make more intentional choices, allowing you to prioritize opportunities that align with your values and long-term goals. Using real-life examples, understand the concept of “memento mori” and pursuing long-term fulfillment and meaningful work, even if it doesn't feel good on a daily basis. Uncover the importance of core values in preventing burnout and achieving long-term fulfillment, especially for neurodivergent individuals, with practical tips on how to identify and stay aligned with your values. If you choose to pursue entrepreneurship, consider how aligning your work with your core values could enhance your fulfillment and satisfaction. About Corey: Dr. Corey Wilks is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Executive Coach who helps the top entrepreneurs in the world clarify what matters, overcome limiting beliefs, and build a values-aligned life and business. His work explores the psychology of success and what gets in our way. And he shares these insights in his weekly newsletter, which you can check out at coreywilkspsyd.com. Website: coreywilkspsyd.com YouTube: youtube.com/@coreywilkspsyd LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coreywilkspsyd Resources Values Exercise: think2perform.com/values ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADHD entrepreneurs can face unique challenges while balancing creativity, passion, and ideas with organization, implementation, and struggles with executive functioning. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Gabrielle Juliano-Villani, owner of GJV Consulting and Training, about ADHD's impact on entrepreneurship, offering practical strategies and personal insights. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Hear real-life stories about managing the emotions of rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and burnout, with practical tips for emotional regulation and recovery. Learn practical strategies for improving executive functioning with tools such as the ADHD buddy system, AI assistance, and effective delegation. Discover ways to evaluate and pursue diverse revenue streams while maintaining focus and aligning with her core values. Consider entrepreneurial strategies to balance creativity with organization in your own ventures. Whether it's through better delegation or emotional health reflection, intentional steps can lead you to success. More about Gabrielle: Gabrielle Juliano-Villani is a licensed clinical social worker, consultant, coach, entrepreneur, speaker, retreat host, and educator based in Sarasota, FL. She has been in the mental health field for over a decade specializing in stress, chronic health conditions, and trauma. After realizing her own burnout in 2021, she sold her thriving group practice and made it her mission to educate others on the impact stress has on our everyday lives. Read more here. Website: gabriellejulianovillani.com Neurodivergent Entrepreneur Retreat in Belize: allthingspractice.com/belize-neurodivergent-2025 ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neurodivergent individuals can sometimes feel overwhelmed by emotions or struggle to understand their own stress responses, and entrepreneurship can add another level of intensity to this experience. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Yunetta Smith, a licensed clinician, coach, trauma expert, and EMDR trainer, about the impact of naming emotions on mental health, especially for neurodivergent individuals, entrepreneurs, and people of color, emphasizing the importance of allowing folks to have autonomy over their own experiences and healing. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Discover how naming your emotions can reduce stress and turn tough experiences into opportunities for healing and growth. Gain insights into the reality behind perceived success and the internal struggles many neurodivergent entrepreneurs face—validation that you are not alone if you feel overwhelmed, isolated, or disconnected despite your outward achievements. Learn about Yunetta's groundbreaking work with EMDR therapy, offering marginalized communities access to mental health resources tailored to their unique needs and experiences. As you listen, consider how emotional awareness can enhance both your personal well-being and your entrepreneurial success, keeping in mind that there is more than one right way to access your emotions and honor your nervous system and uniqueness. Read Yunetta's Bio Here: divergentpod.com/68 Websites: yunettaspring.com & groundbreakerstherapy.com Social Media: @yunettaspringsmith & @groundbreakerstherapy EMDR Mailing List: text EMDR to 33777 ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the complexities of personal identity and public presentation can be incredibly challenging, especially for those in the neurodivergent community with later-in-life discovery who have crafted a well-established public identity and role. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Maureen Werrbach discuss the complexities of balancing personal identity and public presentation as a neurodivergent individual, highlighting challenges and triumphs of embracing one's true self amidst societal and professional expectations. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Hear the personal stories of Maureen, Patrick, and Dr. Neff as they discuss how their diagnoses of ADHD and autism have reshaped their personal and professional lives. Discover the power of vulnerability, and the fine balance required to share personal experiences publicly without losing oneself. Explore the intersection of identity and leadership, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. Learn from Maureen’s experience integrating social justice and personal values into business, and creating accountable and inclusive leadership teams. Reflect on your journey of self-discovery and how to embrace and advocate for your true self. More about Maureen: Maureen developed her coaching program, The Group Practice Exchange, based on her experience with starting her private practice and growing it into a successful group practice. She spent countless hours researching how to start a private practice (the legal and procedural steps) and then learning how to grow it into a group (figuring out the appropriate steps). Maureen thoroughly enjoys helping clinicians become confident and organized group practice business owners. Website: thegrouppracticeexchange.com ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dealing with chronic health issues can often feel like a neverending battle, especially when it seems like there’s no clear path to improvement. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss their personal battles with chronic health conditions. They provide an insightful analysis using the biopsychosocial model, share their experiences, and introduce this new series on chronic health issues for neurodivergent individuals. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain practical insights into managing chronic health struggles through the biopsychosocial model, which considers the interconnected biological, psychological, and social factors affecting well-being. Discover the power of setting concrete, manageable goals to tackle issues such as sleep, depression, and chronic pain, and learn strategies to cultivate self-efficacy and align your actions with your values. Learn how diet, exercise, and behavioral health perspectives play crucial roles in managing complex medical conditions, and hear about the hosts' personal plans to focus on movement and diet for improved health. As you embark on your own journey to better health, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Identify one tangible goal you can work on today, and consider the broader biopsychosocial factors influencing your well-being. Reflect on how you can take actionable steps, no matter how small, towards living a more value-aligned life. ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities: This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A lot can be learned about our nervous system and needs by looking at biopsychosocial aspects of life. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, explore the biopsychosocial aspects of sleep and how they intersect with mental health through the lens of Patrick’s experiences. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain insight into Patrick Casale's ongoing battle with sleep issues, from his childhood to the present day, and learn how various factors—like sleep environment, hydration habits, and caffeine intake—impact his nights. Hear Dr. Neff's expert advice on practical strategies for better sleep, including the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) and small, manageable changes that can make a big difference over time. Understand the biopsychosocial dimensions of sleep disturbances, including how stress, rumination, and hypervigilance can disrupt your rest, and discover methods to counter these challenges through visualization and grounding exercises.  If you struggle with sleep, consider doing a biopsychosocial assessment for yourself, and find the small changes you can implement to improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. DISCLAIMER: This episode is not intended as medical advice. Resources: Biopsychosocial Venn Diagram Download Patrick’s Biopsychosocial Venn Diagram Download Sleep Resource (Neurodivergent Article): neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autism-adhd-and-sleep Sleep Workbook (Neurodivergent Insights): neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/sleep (Use Code: DCPOD for 25% off) ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities: This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By exploring biopsychosocial aspects of life, it can become easier to understand our nervous systems from a holistic perspective offering more options to improve our quality of life with simple and manageable changes. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, explore the biopsychosocial aspects of chronic fatigue and long COVID, and how these affect one's social life and overall health through the lens of Megan’s experiences. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Learn about realistic and attainable goal-setting to overall health using a biopsychosocial approach, highlighting why it's important to avoid extremes and embrace small, achievable changes. Gain insight into how personal struggles and professional advice sometimes contradict, as well as discover a more holistic perspective that underscores the importance of authenticity. Discover the psychological and biological dimensions of Megan’s chronic fatigue and long COVID, and how these affect her social life and overall health. As you listen, consider how you can apply these discussions to your own life, setting realistic goals and fostering a sense of balance. Make self-care a priority, and remember that small, positive changes can create ripple effects that significantly enhance your mental and physical health. DISCLAIMER: This episode is not intended as medical advice. Resources: Biopsychosocial Venn Diagram Download ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities: This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neuroimmune systems often intertwine with chronic health and neurodivergence, leaving neurodivergent individuals grappling with things like energy management, chronic fatigue, or other long-term health conditions. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Dr. Mel Houser, an Autistic family physician, about the intricate dynamics of chronic health, energy management, and the often-overlooked connection between neuroimmune systems and neurodivergence. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain a deeper understanding of post-exertional malaise (PEM) and how recognizing one's limits can help in avoiding the debilitating crash that often follows overexertion. Using real-life experiences, understand the systemic challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals within a traditional healthcare model, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy and community support. Discover practical strategies and tools from Dr. Houser on identifying environmental triggers and making manageable adjustments to improve health, particularly for autistic and ADHD adults. As you navigate your own healthcare journey, remember to honor your limits, seek out community, and advocate for the care you deserve. DISCLAIMER: This episode is not intended as medical advice. 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: allbrainsbelong.org Get Connected: allbrainsbelong.org/get-connected Clinician Resources: allbrainsbelong.org/clinician-resources Instagram: @allbrainsbelongvt Bateman Horne Center Website: batemanhornecenter.org Check out All Brains Belong’s project: allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities: Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often oversimplified and misrepresented, turning a complex mental health condition into a stereotype of mere cleanliness or orderliness. For those who struggle with it, the reality is far more nuanced, affecting many aspects of daily life and self-perception. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, provide a compassionate, insightful conversation about the perceptions, identities, and experiences tied to OCD. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain a better understanding of OCD as a mental health condition, how it differs from commonly held misconceptions, and why self-determination and neurodivergent-affirming practices are crucial. Hear personal stories about living with OCD, from intrusive thoughts and auditory hallucinations to coping mechanisms, and learn how these experiences align—or clash—with other neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD. Discover strategies for reducing stigma and opened discussions around OCD and mental health, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and educated perspectives. When exploring more about OCD, especially within yourself or in support of others, remember that understanding and compassion are key. Equip yourself with knowledge, seek out supportive communities, and always prioritize your mental well-being. Resource: Neurodivergent Insights Article: What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨ Hurricane Relief for WNC communities: This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For neurodivergent individuals, navigating the upheaval caused by natural disasters can be particularly challenging. The constant unpredictability, sensory overload, and disrupted routines can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the psychological, emotional, and physical impact of natural disasters on neurodivergent individuals. Patrick, who lives in Asheville, NC, which was destroyed by Hurricane Helene, shares his experience. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Hear firsthand accounts from Patrick, a resident of Asheville, NC, about the challenges of enduring Hurricane Helene as a neurodivergent individual, including the disorientation from losing communication and navigating resource scarcity. Learn about the incredible efforts in Western North Carolina to band together, raise funds, and offer psychological support amid the chaos, showcasing the power of communal strength and how individuals can offer support that still works with their sensory needs. Understand the coping mechanisms and strategies for reestablishing normalcy, including navigating grief and routine disruption, that neurodivergent individuals can employ in the face of crisis. If you want to donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for Western North Carolina communities affected by Hurricane Helene, visit: atppod.com/wnc NOTE: Please be aware that this episode includes a first-hand account of the tragedy and devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina. ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

OCD is often misunderstood and can manifest in many forms from a variety of experiences that create associations with a compulsion and an outcome. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, are joined by Aiden Reis, a trans, Autistic therapist who specializes in OCD, anxiety, phobias, and panic. They discuss practical strategies for effectively managing OCD through Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy using a value-driven and neurodivergent-affirming approach. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Learn practical strategies for rebuilding self-trust after anxiety-inducing experiences, drawing from Aiden Reis’s invaluable insights into Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy adapted for neurodivergent individuals. Discover the importance of accommodating sensory needs in therapy without reinforcing anxiety, and understand how to effectively differentiate between sensory sensitivities and anxiety responses. Gain a richer appreciation of how addressing "what if" scenarios and unhooking from distressing thoughts can lead to profound empowerment and emotional resilience, helping you live a good life despite potential challenges. OCD can be challenging, but there are ways to manage it, and ERP, when done using a neurodivergent-affirming approach, can be an effective tool in managing OCD for neurodivergent individuals. More about Aiden: Aiden is a trans and autistic, private practice therapist based in Massachusetts. Working with Autistic and ADHDer clients, he is passionate about providing neurodivergent-affirming and LGBT-positive therapy. He specializes in OCD, anxiety, phobias, and panic. Aiden is a member of the International OCD Foundation. Website: www.divergecounseling.com ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the healthcare system and advocating for needs can be a frustrating and invalidating experience, especially for neurodivergent individuals who exhibit interwoven behaviors associated with OCD, autism, or Tourettes. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Dr. Stacy Greeter, an AuDHD and OCD child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist, discuss the multi-faceted challenges of accessing appropriate healthcare, the nuances of differentiating between behaviors related to OCD, autism, and Tourettes, and the significance of authenticity in professional environments. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain valuable insights into how to navigate the healthcare system more effectively by preparing questions, bringing an ally, and scheduling frequent consultations, emphasizing the importance of patient self-advocacy in medical appointments. Understand the distinctions among stimming, tics, and OCD compulsions, and learn to differentiate value-driven actions from fear-based compulsions, helping to provide clarity and reduce pathologizing behaviors that bring joy. Discover the importance of authenticity and individuality in both medical and therapeutic fields, hearing firsthand experiences from professionals who embrace their neurodivergent identities to foster better client outcomes and work cultures. As you reflect on this episode, consider the importance of advocating for your needs within the healthcare system. Remember, your voice and experience are crucial in navigating these complex environments. More about Stacy: Dr. Stacy Greeter is an AuDHD and OCD child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist in Sarasota, FL. Her autistic special interests include fantasy creatures and everything psychiatry. She uses metaphors from fantasy universes such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and The Little Mermaid to make complex psychiatric concepts more relatable and advocate for autistic patients and other autistic doctors. Website: stacygreetermd.com YouTube: youtube.com/@stacygreetermd Psychiatry Boot Camp: stacygreetermd.com/psychiatry-boot-camp Free Resource on Healthcare Advocacy ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neurodivergent individuals often find mental health topics like OCD, autism, and ADHD intertwined in ways that can complicate their personal narratives and self-identity. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Brittany Goff discuss the intersections of OCD, autism, and ADHD and the use of I-CBT in the treatment of OCD for neurodivergent individuals. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand how sensory discrepancies can lead to the development of obsessive stories, particularly for autistic individuals, and how inference-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (I-CBT) offers a tailored approach to counteract these doubts. Discover the unique challenges and strategies for neurodivergent individuals, including those with undiagnosed autism or ADHD, in managing OCD symptoms and building self-trust through a neuro-affirmative lens. Learn about the intersection of personal experiences, vulnerable self-themes, and logical reasoning with OCD, and how neurodivergent traits such as hyperempathy and rejection sensitivity influence the creation of obsessive narratives. Consider how your sensory experiences and neurodivergent traits affect your perception of reality and self-trust. I-CBT can offer tools and strategies to foster more certainty, understanding, and self-trust. DISCLAIMER: I-CBT is currently only evidence-based for OCD. About Brittany: Brittany Goff is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Clinical Director at Zen Psychological Center, a neuroaffirming OCD practice in Maryland. Additionally, she serves as an Instructor at the Cognitive Behavioral Institute, providing continuing education in Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for OCD. She authored the first-ever I-CBT workbook and was one of the first adopters of I-CBT in the United States. She is the first clinician to offer I-CBT training specifically tailored for individuals with Autism and ADHD, a neuroaffirming approach to treating OCD. Facebook groups: I-CBT & Neurodivergence I-CBT & Neurodivergence Community Training in I-CBT: icbtonlinelearning.com Waitlist for training on how to adapt I-CBT for neurodivergence I-CBT Workbook Zen Psychological Center: zenpsychologicalcenter.com ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities This money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Balancing vulnerability and authenticity can be challenging, but also deeply rewarding.  In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Samuel Silverman, a psychiatrist and stand-up comedian diagnosed with OCD and ADHD, about the intersection of comedy, mental health, and the digital age. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Gain insights into how the blend of personal vulnerability and social critique in comedy helps individuals connect with their audience and understand their own mental health experiences more deeply. Hear Samuel Silverman's unique perspective on balancing a career in psychiatry with a presence on comedy stages and in social media, including the ethical boundaries he maintains while advocating for mental health awareness. Discover practical advice on recognizing and managing OCD, understanding its pervasive nature of doubt, and learning how self-expression can be a cathartic way to handle internal struggles.  As you reflect on this conversation, consider how your own experiences and challenges might be transformed through creative expression and connection. Remember that sharing your journey, setting healthy boundaries, and advocating for understanding can be powerful tools in the mental health landscape. Note from Samuel: I was raised in a progressive Jewish family in Baltimore, MD. I went to the same small progressive school that my mother and aunt attended — my grandmother actually taught there while the two of them were in school, and my mother later taught there while my brother and I attended. When I was 18, I traveled halfway across the country to attend Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota. There I met my wife, Kelley Stevens, better known as “The Private Practice Pro.” I attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency training at Loma Linda University. As I was completing my residency, I began to explore the world of stand-up comedy, and started performing throughout Southern California before traveling to other parts of the country to tell jokes, when I’m not too busy seeing patients. I myself have diagnoses of both OCD and ADHD. More than anything, OCD has colored so much of my experience. Because of this, my symptoms and struggles with this condition provide much of the material for my comedy. Instagram: @samsilvermancomedy ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: Resilient Mind Counseling & Learning Nook ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. We take insurance, so please check our website for coverage for different services. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. We also host body double sessions, parent gatherings, and monthly live events. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many stereotypes about giftedness, what it really means, and the connection it might have to neurodivergent traits related to autism or ADHD. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC, discuss the nuanced world of giftedness and neurodivergence, including IQ, societal pressures, and the unique personal experiences that shape gifted individuals. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Explore the evolving definitions of giftedness and twice-exceptionality, and how universal screening can help identify marginalized and neurodivergent students. Understand the social and emotional struggles faced by gifted individuals, including the challenges of perfectionism and social connections. Learn about the theory of overexcitabilities, and how heightened sensitivities impact the cognitive and emotional experiences of gifted individuals. Reflect on the importance of creating environments that support neurodivergent traits, challenge societal norms linking productivity to self-worth, and advocate for systemic changes that nurture the unique qualities of gifted individuals. About Emily Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC, is the host of The Neurodiversity Podcast, which explores the psychological, educational, and social needs for enriching the lives of neurodivergent people. She is the author of several books for parents and educators related to the development of children and teens who are neurodivergent and cognitively gifted. She started her career in education and now works as a mental health counselor in private practice outside of St. Louis, Missouri, specializing in supporting neurodivergent, twice-exceptional, and gifted people of all ages. The Neurodiversity Podcast Neurodiversity University Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported Teaching Twice-Exceptional Learners in Today’s Classroom Twitter: @EmilyKM_LPC Facebook: @EmilyKircherMorris Podcast Facebook Page: @NeurodiversityPodcast ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Gifted Learning Lab, Resilient Mind Counseling, & Learning Nook ✨The Gifted Learning Lab The Gifted Learning Lab is all about empowering parents to raise their gifted and 2e kids with confidence and less conflict. If you’re looking for real, neurodivergent-affirming strategies, you can check out Danika’s free email mini-course on reducing power struggles at giftedlearninglab.com/power. And for those wanting a deeper dive, her coaching program, 'Support Your Intense Gifted/2e Kid,' offers hands-on support for the journey. ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. For medication management, you need to be within a 60-mile driving distance to the office. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The rich, layered experience of gifted and neurodivergent individuals often includes profound emotional sensitivity, rapid thinking, and unique challenges in daily life. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Dr. Matthew Zakreski, a speaker and psychologist, discuss the complexities of neurodivergence and giftedness, including impostor syndrome, executive functioning, the rule of 5, mirror neurons, and overexcitability. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Discover the unique traits of gifted and neurodivergent individuals, including the intense emotional experiences known as overexcitabilities that shape one's perception of the world. Dive into the concept of executive dysfunction to understand why certain tasks can feel overwhelming, reframing "can't" instead of "won't." Explore the nature of impostor syndrome among neurodivergent individuals, and learn how embracing authenticity and self-compassion can alleviate feelings of self-doubt and foster deeper connections. As you reflect on the diverse aspects of giftedness and neurodivergence, remember that unique ways of experiencing, processing, and interacting with the world are both valuable and valid. About Dr. Matt: Matthew "Dr. Matt" Zakreski, PsyD is a high-energy professional speaker and clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodivergent (gifted, 2e, ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, etc.) people. He has spoken more than 900 times all over the world on both stages and podcasts about supporting neurodivergent people in all walks of life, from schools to college to the workplace. Dr. Matt specializes in taking knowledge of the brain, human behavior, and clinical psychology and making that accessible and practical for people to improve their lives. Dr. Matt is the co-founder and lead clinician at The Neurodiversity Collective, an active member of the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), as well as the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC) and the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE). Book (Neurodiversity Playbook) Consulting: drmattzakreski.com/blank-3 Podcast (Nerding Out on Neurodiversity) Website: drmattzakreski.com  ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Gifted Learning Lab, Resilient Mind Counseling, & Learning Nook ✨The Gifted Learning Lab The Gifted Learning Lab is all about empowering parents to raise their gifted and 2e kids with confidence and less conflict. If you’re looking for real, neurodivergent-affirming strategies, you can check out Danika’s free email mini-course on reducing power struggles at giftedlearninglab.com/power. And for those wanting a deeper dive, her coaching program, 'Support Your Intense Gifted/2e Kid,' offers hands-on support for the journey. ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities Donate to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Giftedness is paired with a unique cognitive and emotional makeup accompanied by many societal misconceptions. Many individuals find themselves grappling with high expectations, internalized stigma, and a constant quest for intellectual stimulation, often reconciling feelings of exceptional capability with misunderstood struggles. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Katy Higgins Lee, a multiply neurodivergent therapist, discuss the nuanced world of giftedness, including the intersection of giftedness, neurodivergence, and the emotional landscape that comes with it. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand the trauma that can arise from being labeled as gifted, and how societal misunderstandings and high expectations can lead to negative perceptions and unresolved emotional struggles. Explore the concept of "overexcitabilities" from the theory of positive disintegration and how recognizing these heightened sensitivities can aid in self-care and managing intellectual and sensory needs for a balanced life. Discover practical approaches and supportive communities that help twice exceptional (2e) individuals navigate their unique challenges, providing a sense of belonging and validation. As you reflect on your unique journey or that of someone you care about, consider the nuances that shape your experiences and needs. Understanding and embracing these can open doors to self-acceptance and fulfilling connections. More about Katy: Katy Higgins Lee, MFT (she/her) is a multiply neurodivergent therapist in private practice in Northern California. She is also a clinical supervisor, continuing education provider, neurodiversity advocate, unschooling parent, gardener, and writer. Katy’s Trainings: https://www.katyhigginslee.com/trainings Katy’s Groups: https://www.katyhigginslee.com/groups Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tendingpaths Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katyhigginsleemft YouTube: https://youtu.be/7pMcDdfEj6A I Must Be BUG’N Podcast Our Wild Minds Facebook Group ———————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ———————————————————————————————— Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Gifted Learning Lab, Resilient Mind Counseling, & Learning Nook ✨The Gifted Learning Lab The Gifted Learning Lab is all about empowering parents to raise their gifted and 2e kids with confidence and less conflict. If you’re looking for real, neurodivergent-affirming strategies, you can check out Danika’s free email mini-course on reducing power struggles at giftedlearninglab.com/power. And for those wanting a deeper dive, her coaching program, 'Support Your Intense Gifted/2e Kid,' offers hands-on support for the journey. ✨Resilient Mind Counseling Resilient Mind Counseling is a neurodivergent-affirming therapy and medication management practice operated all throughout North Carolina. We specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, especially Autistic ADHDers, as well as the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. Text or call 828-515-1246 or visit our website at resilientmindcounseling.com to get started. ✨Learning Nook Explore the power of the neurodivergent community with the Neurodivergent Insights Learning Nook—a neurodiverse space that welcomes all neurotypes. Our community fosters personal growth with access to workbooks, eBooks, workshops, and more. Clinicians can join our special tier for exclusive resources and networking. Limited to 20 new members monthly. Enroll at neurodivergentinsights.com/membership. Scholarships available. ✨Hurricane Relief for WNC communities Donate to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s important to take moments to pause and reflect about 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:  Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order Self-Care for Autistic People you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here: newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor: The Receptionist for iPad ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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:  Dr. Neff is running a promotional this month. If you pre-order Self-Care for Autistic People you will also get a free digital workbook through Neurodivergent Insights. To learn more about this sign up here: newsletter.neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor: The Receptionist for iPad ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  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 Return To Zero 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 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: https://rtzhope.org Kiley’s Instagram and Facebook: @rtzhope Additional Resources Mentioned Worden’s Four Tasks Of Grieving: https://whatsyourgrief.com/wordens-four-tasks-of-mourning —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: Is This Autism? A guide for clinicians and everyone else and 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: drdonnahenderson.com  You can grab Dr. Donna Henderson's books here: isthisautism.com Dr. Donna Henderson’s Masterclass on PDA (with Neurodivergent Insights): https://learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/pda-masterclass/ (As a listener use “PDA10” to get $10.00 off the Masterclass! —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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."  Megan's Resources for Autism and Burnout:  How to Spot Autistic Burnout: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-symptoms What Causes Autistic Burnout: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-causes-autistic-burnout Autistic Burnout Recovery: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-recovery Autistic Burnout Workbook:  https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-burnout-guide-and-worksheets —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  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. 💻 Dr. Megan Anna Neff's Website: https://neurodivergentinsights.com 💻 Patrick Casale's Website: https://www.allthingspractice.com  Resources: Resources for Emotion Identification (blog posts): The Emotion Matrix: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/arousal-valence-model The Feeling Wheel: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/the-feelings-wheel Increasing Emotional Identification: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/emotional-identification Resource (Workbook): The Alexithymia Workbook: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/alexithymia-workbook Emotions 101: If you’re a nerd like me and enjoy learning the science of emotions this workbook is for you: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/emotions-101 —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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?  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.  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:  Autism, ADHD, and Sleep: An Expert Guide on Neurodivergent Sleep: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autism-adhd-and-sleep Sleep Workbook: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/the-neurodivergent-sleep-workbook —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. 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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: https://counselingcommunity.com  Jennifer’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/destination.ce.retreats  Jennifer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselingcommunity —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  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: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/resources —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  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. In this episode, 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. 3 reasons to listen to the 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. Resources Alexithymia articles on neurodivergent insights Alexithymia workbook Dr. Neff’s Alexithimia Training About Thomas Henley My name is Thomas Henley, I’m an Autism consultant, public speaker & workplace trainer running the Worlds Top podcast ‘Thoughty Auti Podcast’, all about Autism & Mental Health - independently presented, edited & promoted by my Autistic self. I was diagnosed Autistic at 10 years old & later developed severe mental health conditions at the age of 14 due to trauma at Secondary School - Clinical Depression, GAD, Bulimia & multiple Dissociative disorders. Most of my content focuses on low quality-of-life statistics for autistic people, such as mental health, social isolation, unemployment, education, relationship difficulties & self-harm in all forms. I’ve delivered this information to the government, leaders in SEN education, & the general public through my outreach & social media work. I also studied & researched Autism, Mental Health, Sociology, Psychology, Socialising, Relationships & Philosophy. I also used to be Special Needs TA, I work alongside charities regularly, talk to researchers, Autistic influencers, authors & parents regularly on my podcast, & currently work full-time for a National Inclusion charity. Thomas’ resources: Website: thomashenley.co.uk Thoughty Auti Podcast (Spotify) Twitter: ThomasHenleyUK YouTube: Thomas Henley Instagram: thomashenleyuk TikTok: @thomashenleyuk —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Resources Neurodivergent Insights Interpersonal Workbook: Neurodivergent Insights Workbook: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/interpersonal-workbook Can Autistic Children Be Securely Attached? By Debra Brause Psy.D. (Psychology Today) The Attachment Project: Great articles and resources on attachment theory —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  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.  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: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/neurodivergent-holiday-reflections —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor, Gifted Learning Lab! ✨ Gifted Learning Lab: We would love to thank Gifted Learning Lab for sponsoring this episode. If you’re raising a bright neurodivergent kid and you’d like to feel more confident and less stressed as a parent, you can get free parenting resources and supportive coaching from The Gifted Learning Lab and Dr. Danika Maddocks. The Gifted Learning Lab is designed for parents of emotionally intense or sensitive gifted and twice-exceptional kids and teens, including those who are autistic, PDAers, ADHDers, or otherwise neurodivergent.  Danika is a former gifted kid and a late-identified autistic who combines intuition, compassion, and humor with practical strategies that help you build a calmer and more connected family life. She has supported twice-exceptional kids and families for over a dozen years as a teacher, therapist, award-winning researcher, and parent coach.  If you’ve tried other parenting advice without success, The Gifted Learning Lab might be right for you - all the ideas and strategies are tailored to the strengths, needs, and characteristics of intense gifted and twice-exceptional kids. Danika helps you understand your kid’s intensity from the inside out so you can connect with your child during tough moments and know what they need to thrive.  You’ll learn to work with your child’s brain and you’ll feel more confident letting go of traditional parenting approaches that aren’t a good fit for your child or yourself. If you’re also neurodivergent yourself, you can use many of the strategies and tools from The Gifted Learning Lab to bring more ease and compassion to your own life too. Right now, The Gifted Learning Lab is offering a free email mini course to help you defuse and prevent power struggles with your gifted or twice-exceptional kid - in an affirming, supportive way. If you feel stuck in endless negotiations or arguments, check out the free power struggles mini course at www.giftedlearninglab.com/power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Dr. Mel Houser (she/they), an autistic family physician, 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: https://allbrainsbelong.org  Instagram: @allbrainsbelongvt Check out All Brains Belong’s new project: Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic & ADHD Adults 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: https://allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: www.amandadiekman.com Amanda’s Book: Low Demand Parenting Parenting Summit: Low Demand Parenting Summit Mastermind: Amanda’s Mastermind Program —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors, Tula Consulting & Marisa La Piana LCSW Psychotherapy! ✨ Tula Consulting: We would love to thank Tula Consulting for sponsoring this episode. Workplace communication can be messy. Considering the lens of neurodiversity can be helpful for understanding this. Maybe you found yourself frustratedly typing "per my last email" in an office communication, perplexed about how a colleague or client doesn't seem to understand your very clearly written email. Consider this. Visual information processing isn't everyone's strength. Perhaps a quick call could make a world of difference. Or how about including a video or voice message with your email? And this technology exists! Simple steps like these can make your work environment more accessible and bring out the best in everyone. Tula Consulting is on a mission to help organizations build more neuro-inclusive products and work environments. Tula does this by bringing curious minds to solve curious problems. Find out more by visiting tulaneurodiversity.org. ✨ Marisa La Piana LCSW Psychotherapy: We would love to thank Marisa La Piana Psychotherapy for sponsoring this episode. Marisa (she/they) is a neuroqueer licensed clinical social worker and trauma therapist. They bring a queer and neurodivergent-affirming, anti-ableist lens to their practice. She is passionate about utilizing attachment-focused EMDR work, parts work, and body-based somatic work to support folks with trauma healing. They are also deeply influenced and inspired by the inherent strengths, resilience, and wisdom of queer, disabled, and neurodivergent communities. Marisa offers both individual therapy as well as workshops and trainings.  If you reside in the state of California and you're looking for a queer, neurodivergent-affirming therapist, you can schedule a free consultation at marisalapianalcsw.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  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: https://uk.sagepub.com/en-gb/eur/it%E2%80%99s-never-just-adhd/book279617 US: https://www.sagepub.com/en-us/cab/it%E2%80%99s-never-just-adhd/book279617 More Resources from Sandra: Podcast Host of Neurodivergent Narratives https://neurodivergentnarrativespodcast.buzzsprout.com Substack: https://ndnarratives.substack.com  @nd.narratives on Instagram Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ndnarratives —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor, Tula Consulting! ✨ Tula Consulting: We would love to thank Tula Consulting for sponsoring this episode. Workplace communication can be messy. Considering the lens of neurodiversity can be helpful for understanding this. Maybe you found yourself frustratedly typing "per my last email" in an office communication, perplexed about how a colleague or client doesn't seem to understand your very clearly written email. Consider this. Visual information processing isn't everyone's strength. Perhaps a quick call could make a world of difference. Or how about including a video or voice message with your email? And this technology exists! Simple steps like these can make your work environment more accessible and bring out the best in everyone. Tula Consulting is on a mission to help organizations build more neuro-inclusive products and work environments. Tula does this by bringing curious minds to solve curious problems. Find out more by visiting tulaneurodiversity.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Resources What is Masking in Autism? Autistic Masking Explained (blog post): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-is-masking-in-autism?rq=masking Neuroqueer Heresies: Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities by Dr. Nick Walker (book): https://neuroqueer.com/neuroqueer-heresies  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 Personal Use, use coupon code: Unmasking25 here (https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking) For Clinical Use, use code: Unmasking25-Clinical here (https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking-therapy-resources) —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: 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 divergentconversations@gmail.com. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  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: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-is-masking-in-autism You can also grab the Autistic masking checklist when you sign up for Dr. Neff’s newsletter: https://neurodivergentinsights.ck.page/51e276c041 —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Code Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Clinical Use): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-clinical  Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Personal Use): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundle Use Code: “DivergentConversationsListener” To get 20% off anything in the shop, including the RSD bundle. Dr. Neff's free blog posts on RSD: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/Rejection+Sensitive+Dysphoria —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor, Tula Consulting! ✨ Tula Consulting: We would love to thank Tula Consulting for sponsoring this episode. Workplace communication can be messy. Considering the lens of neurodiversity can be helpful for understanding this. Maybe you found yourself frustratedly typing "per my last email" in an office communication, perplexed about how a colleague or client doesn't seem to understand your very clearly written email. Consider this. Visual information processing isn't everyone's strength. Perhaps a quick call could make a world of difference. Or how about including a video or voice message with your email? And this technology exists! Simple steps like these can make your work environment more accessible and bring out the best in everyone. Tula Consulting is on a mission to help organizations build more neuro-inclusive products and work environments. Tula does this by bringing curious minds to solve curious problems. Find out more by visiting tulaneurodiversity.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Code Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Clinical Use): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-clinical  Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Personal Use): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundle Use Code: “DivergentConversationsListener” To get 20% off anything in the shop, including the RSD bundle.  Dr. Neff's free blog posts on RSD: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/Rejection+Sensitive+Dysphoria  The EFT attachment infinity loop can be downloaded here: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/couples-resources  —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor, Tula Consulting! ✨ Tula Consulting: We would love to thank Tula Consulting for sponsoring this episode. Workplace communication can be messy. Considering the lens of neurodiversity can be helpful for understanding this. Maybe you found yourself frustratedly typing "per my last email" in an office communication, perplexed about how a colleague or client doesn't seem to understand your very clearly written email. Consider this. Visual information processing isn't everyone's strength. Perhaps a quick call could make a world of difference. Or how about including a video or voice message with your email? And this technology exists! Simple steps like these can make your work environment more accessible and bring out the best in everyone. Tula Consulting is on a mission to help organizations build more neuro-inclusive products and work environments. Tula does this by bringing curious minds to solve curious problems. Find out more by visiting tulaneurodiversity.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Resources What is Masking in Autism? Autistic Masking Explained (blog post): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-is-masking-in-autism?rq=masking 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 Personal Use, use coupon code: Unmasking25 here (https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking) For Clinical Use, use code: Unmasking25-Clinical here (https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-masking-therapy-resources) —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you struggle with rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), navigating social media can be complicated.  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 Code Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Clinical Use): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-clinical  Dr. Neff's Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Workbook Bundle (Personal Use): https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundle Use Code: “DivergentConversationsListener” To get 20% off anything in the shop, including the RSD bundle.  Dr. Neff's free blog posts on RSD: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/category/Rejection+Sensitive+Dysphoria  The EFT attachment infinity loop can be downloaded here: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/couples-resources  —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsor, Tula Consulting! ✨ Tula Consulting: We would love to thank Tula Consulting for sponsoring this episode. Workplace communication can be messy. Considering the lens of neurodiversity can be helpful for understanding this. Maybe you found yourself frustratedly typing "per my last email" in an office communication, perplexed about how a colleague or client doesn't seem to understand your very clearly written email. Consider this. Visual information processing isn't everyone's strength. Perhaps a quick call could make a world of difference. Or how about including a video or voice message with your email? And this technology exists! Simple steps like these can make your work environment more accessible and bring out the best in everyone. Tula Consulting is on a mission to help organizations build more neuro-inclusive products and work environments. Tula does this by bringing curious minds to solve curious problems. Find out more by visiting tulaneurodiversity.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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."  Megan's Resources for Autism and Burnout:  How to Spot Autistic Burnout: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-symptoms What Causes Autistic Burnout: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/what-causes-autistic-burnout Autistic Burnout Recovery: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autistic-burnout-recovery Autistic Burnout Workbook:  https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/autistic-burnout-guide-and-worksheets —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: neurodivergentinsights.com/resources —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: www.genderspecialist.com  Work with Rebecca: https://www.genderspecialist.com/coaching   Rebecca’s Instagram: http://instagram.com/gender.specialist   Rebecca’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaMinorLICSW  Resources Neurodivergent Insights Masterclass Series: Exploring Neuroqueer Identities by Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Rebecca Minor: https://learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/exploring-neuroqueer-identities/ Neurodivergent Insights Infographic: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autism-infographics/trans-autism —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 why they just don't seem to fit in and why 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 here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.  This episode aims to shed some light on the complex world of demand avoidance and PDA to gain a deeper understanding.  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: facebook.com/tmhpsych Tara's Instagram: instagram.com/tmhpsychotherapy Additional Resources: Dr. Neff's blog post on "Autism PDA Explained: The Core Characteristics of Pathological Demand Avoidance" PDA MasterClass: For an in-depth clinical definition of PDA, check out Neurodivergent Insights MasterClass featuring Dr. Donna Henderson. —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: Is This Autism? A guide for clinicians and everyone else and 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: drdonnahenderson.com  You can grab Dr. Donna Henderson's books here: isthisautism.com Dr. Donna Henderson’s Masterclass on PDA (with Neurodivergent Insights): https://learn.neurodivergentinsights.com/pda-masterclass/ (As a listener use “PDA10” to get $10.00 off the Masterclass! —————————————————————————————————— 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube —————————————————————————————————— Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices