Podcast appearances and mentions of megan anna neff

Dr. Megan Anna Neff, a clinical psychologist based in Oregon, joins Lisa Dent to discuss the signs of undiagnosed autism in adults. Dr. Neff details some of the biggest signs that someone might have undiagnosed autism, and how someone with autism might behave.

​In this special 9-year anniversary episode, I'm doing things a little differently. Instead of a guest interview, I'm doing a solocast in which I share nine shifts I've noticed in the parenting paradigm for those of us raising neurodivergent kids over the past almost decade since I first founded Tilt. Some of the things I explore in this episode include the evolution of language within the neurodiversity movement, the increased recognition of dual diagnoses like Autistic ADHD and new identifications such as PDA, how concepts like Polyvagal theory and co-reguation have profoundly changed the ways differently wired children are understood, the importance of centering neurodivergent voices, and much more. * I've put together a special anniversary playlist of the podcast episodes I reference in this episode over on Spotify. To listen to that, click here.*   About Debbie Debbie Reber, MA is a parenting activist, bestselling author, speaker, and the CEO and founder of Tilt Parenting, a resource, top-performing podcast, consultancy, and community with a focus on shifting the paradigm for parents raising and embracing neurodivergent children. A regular contributor to Psychology Today and ADDitude Magazine, and the author of more than a dozen books for children and teens, Debbie's most recent book is Differently Wired: A Parent's Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope.   Resources mentioned Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Neurodivergent Insights Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity by Devon Price, PhD Are you autistic? How a 'lost generation' of women on the spectrum went under the radar (The Telegraph)  The lost girls: ‘Chaotic and curious, women with ADHD all have missed red flags that haunt us' (The Guardian) The Electricity of Every Living Thing: A Woman's Walk in the Wild to Find Her Way Home by Katherine May Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May Is This Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else by Dr. Donna Henderson and Dr. Sarah Wayland Dr. Stephen Porges Brain-Body Parenting: How to Stop Managing Behavior and Start Raising Joyful, Resilient Kids by Dr. Mona Delahooke Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges by Dr. Mona Delahooke Deb Dana's website, Rhythm of Regulation Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory by Deb Dana Navigating PDA in America: A Framework to Support Anxious, Demand-Avoidant Autistic Children, Teens, and Young Adults  by Ruth Fidler and Diane Gould The Family Experience of PDA by Eliza Fricker Normal Sucks: How to Live, Learn and Thrive Outside the Lines by Jonathan Mooney Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Aspergers by John Elder Robison Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to be an Ally by Emily Ladau Unmasking for Life: The Autistic Person's Guide to Connecting, Loving, and Living Authentically by Dr. Devon Price Executive Function Coach Seth Perler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/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 flashback 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.***This episode is a re-release episode of Divergent Conversations selected for our 2025 break. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.ANNOUNCEMENT: We're extending our break a few additional episodes. If you want more information on what is happening with Dr. Neff and Neurodivergent Insights, you can read about it using the following link, as well as learn how to connect with and support their work: notion.so/neurodivergentinsights/Thank-You-For-Supporting-Our-Work-1aaa17a4bb8b80c790abfa4a08231b7a————————————————————————————————

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 flashback 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.orgGet Connected: allbrainsbelong.org/get-connectedClinician Resources: allbrainsbelong.org/clinician-resourcesInstagram: @allbrainsbelongvtBateman Horne Center Website: batemanhornecenter.orgCheck out All Brains Belong's 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: allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things***This episode is a re-release episode of Divergent Conversations selected for our 2025 break. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.ANNOUNCEMENT: We're extending our break a few additional...

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 flashback 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.More about Yunetta:Yunetta Smith is a Thriving Therapreneur (Therapist + Entrepreneur) CEO and founder of Spring Forth Counseling and Ground Breakers Coaching and Consulting. Yunetta is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the States of TN, KY, and ID, as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor, Clinical Trauma Professional, and EMDR Therapist/Approved Consultant.Yunetta specializes in helping black and brown folks navigate childhood trauma that manifests in adulthood—working exclusively with public figures, professionals, pastors, and practitioners.She works diligently to spread awareness through various media platforms including the weekly “Talk it out Tuesday” segment on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, co-hosting the Deeper than the Diet Podcast, and self-publishing her self-care workbook “Take the Struggle Out of Self-care: Six Weeks to Create Your Self-care Strategy.”Yunetta is a groundbreaker, a stigma breaker, and a cycle breaker who cultivates spaces for healing, wholeness, compassion, and change. She strives to create an atmosphere where anyone can take of their masks, stand in their truth, and learn to love what they see!Websites: yunettaspring.com & groundbreakerstherapy.comSocial Media: @yunettaspringsmith & @groundbreakerstherapyEMDR Mailing List: text EMDR to 33777***This episode is the 9th of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.ANNOUNCEMENT: We're extending our break a few additional episodes. If you want more information on what is happening with Dr. Neff and Neurodivergent Insights, you can read about it using the following link, as well as learn how to connect with and support their work:

For adults who are 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 flashback episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jak Levine-Pritzker, ADHD coach and founder of Authentically ADHD LLC, about the nuances of navigating identity when exploring the possibility of an autism diagnosis, as well as the effect of facing internalized ableism and external input throughout the assessment process.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Learn about Jak's personal 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 complexities and nuances of the assessment process for neurodivergent conditions, exploring both the quantitative and qualitative aspects that go 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 own journey or support others in their quest for clarity, remember to ask questions, be mindful that neurodivergent experiences and diagnoses are full of grey areas and overlapping traits, and if you choose to seek a diagnosis, try to approach it with an open mind.More about Jak:Jak Levine-Pritzker(she/her) is an ADHD coach, mental health advocate, and founder of Authentically ADHD LLC. With an online community of over 90k people and a robust coaching practice, she has empowered thousands of ADHDers to heal their internalized ableism and shame and design a life that *actually* works for their brains using a strengths-based approach.Jak is passionate about normalizing and depathologizing what it means to be human, especially a neurodivergent (and queer) human. She shares openly about her own lived experience navigating ADHD, OCD, depression, PMDD, and grief. She truly believes that people with ADHD are not disordered or broken and can live wonderfully successful, fulfilling lives when given the proper support, resources, and environment to thrive.In what feels like another multiverse, she received a law degree from CUNY Queens with clinical training in mediation. She is from upstate NY and currently lives in the Santa Cruz Mountains with her cat, Zen.Check out Jak's online membership (authenticallyadhd.com/membership)! It is an online community for 18+ ADHD adults. There are coaching calls, socials, body doubles, weekly/monthly resets, and more. It is a lovely community and sliding scale starts at $19/month but no one is turned away for lack of funds.Website: authenticallyadhd.comInstagram: instagram.com/authenticallyadhd ***This episode is the 8th of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.ANNOUNCEMENT: We're extending our break a few additional episodes. If you want more information on what is happening with Dr. Neff and Neurodivergent Insights, you can read about it using the following link, as well as learn how to connect with and support their work:

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 flashback 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 will 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 neurodiversity and accommodate for the uniqueness of each individual, but by implementing Lyric's suggestions in this episode, 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, 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, where simple questions prompt open-ended responses that Autistic people can quickly chime in with and invites participants to engage each other in conversations related to the topic. This hashtag connects people who would not otherwise have a reason to engage with each other and fosters a collective understanding of the Autistic Experience.Buy Lyric's Book: books2read.com/neurodiversity-risingWebsite: neurodivergentrebel.comFacebook: facebook.com/NeurodivergentRebelSubstack: neurodivergentrebel.substack.comThreads: threads.net/@neurodivergentrebelYouTube: youtube.com/@NeurodivergentRebelTikTok: tiktok.com/@.neurodivergentrebelResources:Check out Dr. Neff's new book, Self-Care for Autistic People, here to learn more about the book: neurodivergentinsights.com/self-care-for-autistic-people***This episode is the 7th of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please...

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 flashback 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***This episode is the 6th of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.————————————————————————————————

If your child has extreme food aversions, anxiety around eating, or struggles with a very limited diet, you won't want to miss this conversation. Today we're diving into ARFID — Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder — or as my guest calls it, “picky eating on steroids.” To talk about ARFID, I circled back to Zoë Bisbing, a licensed psychotherapist and the director of Body-Positive Therapy NYC who specializes in treating eating disorders and body image concerns with an affirming, neurodiversity-friendly approach. Zoë holds a Master of Social Work from New York University, a Bachelor of Arts from Smith College, and a certification in Family-Based Treatment from the Institute for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders. Today, she's sharing her expertise on the unique ways ARFID presents in neurodivergent children. In this fascinating conversation, Zoë broke down what ARFID is, how it differs from other eating disorders, and why she sees it as a form of neurodivergence in its own right. We talked about how sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and even trauma can contribute to restrictive eating, and how the pandemic exacerbated these challenges for many kids. Zoe also explains why traditional eating disorder treatments often don't work for ARFID and why a child-centered, individualized approach is key to building a positive relationship with food. And a small ask before I play the episode — if you enjoy this episode, please hit the share episode button on your app and send it to a friend or post a link to it in a community of parents with neurodivergent children. I know that when families are struggling with complex challenges like ARFID, it can be difficult to find neurodiversity-affirming resources.   About Zoë Bisbing Zoë Bisbing, MSW, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and content creator. She is the director of Body-Positive Therapy NYC, a group therapy practice, and Body-Positive Home, a learning and healing hub for parents and professionals who want to nurture a more embodied and inclusive next generation… and heal their own food and body stuff while they are at it. You can follow her on instagram @mybodypositivehome for bite-sized body-positive basics and body image healing and her forthcoming Substack, Body-Positive Home. Zoë holds a Master of Social Work from New York University, a Bachelor of Arts from Smith College, and a certification in Family-Based Treatment from the Institute for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders. A native New Yorker, Zoë lives in a fiercely neurodivergent-affirming, body-positive home in Manhattan with her husband, three children, and two dogs.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why Zoe believes ARFID can be seen as a form of neurodivergence, distinct from other eating disorders How the pandemic has worsened mental health issues, including the prevalence and severity of eating disorders like ARFID The different ways that ARFID can present in children, including sensory aversions, anxiety-driven restrictions, and extreme selective eating How to differentiate between ARFID from anorexia or bulimia is crucial, including not driven by body image concerns but by sensory and other factors Why effective ARFID treatment must be individualized and prioritize the child's comfort, autonomy, and unique needs   Resources mentioned Body Positive website Body Positive Therapy (serving residents of NY, CT, and NJ) Body Positive on Substack Zoë Bisbing's website Body Positive on Instagram Body Positive Parenting with Zoe Bisbing and Leslie Bloch (Tilt Parenting podcast) Noreen Hunani Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Dr. Debra Brause on the Complex Relationship Between Traditional Therapeutic Modalities and Neurodivergence (Tilt Parenting podcast) Feelings and Body Investigators (FBI) ARFID   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 flashback 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 Donna Hendreson, Sarah Wayland, and 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)Also, we'll be reading this book together for our book club in June in the Neurodivergent Learning Nook. You can learn more about our community here.DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, and 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, and more specifically, how autism is presented in the DSM is very deficit-based. So, we are not in alignment 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. The reason we chose to do this is that we believe in the power of transparency and demystifying the process of diagnosis, which has historically been very obscure and hard to understand. And so this is our effort for those who perhaps are interested in pursuing a diagnosis or who have gone through the process and want to understand it better. This is our attempt to help demystify that experience. It is not our endorsement of the DSM. Thank you for understanding that.***This episode is the 5th of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.————————————————————————————————

In this episode: Jen breaks down the ins and outs of PDA; Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. She chats about why even the simplest requests can feel like too much and how people with PDA handle those constant demands. Jen looks at the behaviors, challenges, and some ways to work on keeping a sense of autonomy even when triggered.   SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the “You Are a LOT” podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. CLAIM YOUR FREE 7 DAY TRIAL Visit the “You Are A Lot” (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Subscribe to the “This Is A Lot” Newsletter Buy a “You Are A Lot” Podcast Mug Buy a “You Are A Lot” Podcast Sticker Buy an “I Am A Lot” Tote Bag Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com   SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Defining Symptoms of PDA from PDA Society The discovery of PDA from Psychology Today Changing The Name To Pervasive Drive For Autonomy Dr. Megan Anna Neff on PDA vs. Neurodivergent Traits Causes of PDA on Neurosparkhealth website PDA in Adults from Psychology Today PDA Coping Strategies from PDA Society

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 flashback 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 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: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-picturesPDF: neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures***This episode is the 4th of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.————————————————————————————————

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 flashback 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: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/power-of-a-visitInterest-Based Nervous System Article: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/interest-based-nervous-systemInterest-Based Nervous System And ADHD Workbook: neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/interest-based-nervous-system***This episode is the 3rd of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.————————————————————————————————

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 flashback 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.***This episode is the 2nd of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.————————————————————————————————

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 flashback 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.***This episode is the 1st of 10 episodes that Divergent Conversations is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.————————————————————————————————

Navigating anxiety, social awkwardness, and the intricacies of neurodivergence while trying to connect with others can be overwhelming.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, reflect on their experiences from a recent neurodivergent retreat in Belize. They share personal tales of stepping out of comfort zones, managing social expectations, and the profound insights gained from being part of a neurodivergent community.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain a deeper understanding of how to honor your sensory and social needs in overwhelming environments, as both hosts candidly discuss their ambivalence, anxieties, and moments of growth during the retreat.Hear firsthand accounts of how participating in a neurodivergent-exclusive community event can lead to meaningful connections and a sense of belonging, shedding light on the therapeutic power of shared experiences.Learn valuable lessons on setting personal boundaries and allowing yourself the space to recharge, as Patrick and Dr. Neff explore the challenges and benefits of embracing self-care during social and professional events.As you reflect on your own experiences with stepping outside your comfort zone, consider how you can create small moments of connection and community in your everyday life. Establish boundaries, honor your needs, and continue seeking spaces and relationships that allow you to show up authentically.————————————————————————————————

For neurodivergent individuals, the journey toward intentional living and work-life balance comes with both unique challenges and profound opportunities for growth.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, reflect on their past 2024 year, discuss pivotal moments of personal development, and share their hopes and strategies for a more intentional future.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insights on how Patrick Casale has navigated his post-surgery recovery, focusing on balancing energy with new opportunities and the significant role of a values-based decision framework.Learn about Dr. Neff's journey towards reduced workaholism, prioritizing family, and realigning her values, especially through her health challenges and boundary-setting measures.Discover the hosts' reflections on their nearly two-year podcast journey, their intentional shift towards more cohesive content, and their plans for future seasonal structuring inspired by other successful podcasts.As you reflect on your own growth and challenges, consider how aligning your actions with your values can help you lead a more intentional and fulfilling life. Embrace the process of setting boundaries, seeking balance, and prioritizing your well-being for a healthier and more centered future.————————————————————————————————

Navigating the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the impacts of our early experiences can be challenging but also lead to healthier, more fulfilling connections. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Debra Brause, Psy.D., discuss how early childhood experiences for Autistic individuals can shape their adult lives, the importance of seeing people as whole beings, and the transformative power of therapy.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Explore the meaning of whole object relations. Learn how acknowledging the complexity of both yourself and others can move beyond simplistic judgments, fostering deeper and more authentic relationships.Get insights into childhood dynamics and trauma. Gain valuable perspectives on how childhood experiences, especially those marked by misattunement, affect our adult relationships and emotional health, and how therapy helps in developing self-soothing mechanisms.Understand attachment and repetition compulsion. Delve into discussions about attachment theories and how our unconscious patterns in relationships aim to resolve past traumas, often repeating old cycles in an attempt to master unresolved issues.As you reflect on this episode, consider how these insights might inform your own relationships and self-perception. By integrating a deeper understanding of your past and recognizing the complexity in others, you can foster healthier and more fulfilling connections.More about Debra:Debra Brause, Psy.D., received her B.A from the University of Pennsylvania and her Doctorate in Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP). Her professional training includes diagnostic assessment for learning disabilities at UCLA, a postgraduate fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Wright Institute Los Angeles, clinical work in community mental health settings, and continuing participation in psychoanalytic consultation groups.Dr. Brause has served as a clinical supervisor at multiple community mental health settings around Los Angeles and provides trainings to psychoanalytic psychology interns on Neurodiversity.Prior to becoming a psychologist, Dr. Brause spent ten years in the entertainment industry, working in television production, news, and as a studio development executive.She has a blog on Psychology Today about raising a neurodivergent child. In her private practice, she is passionate about working with parents raising neurodivergent children as well as Autistic adults from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective.Website: drdebrabrause.comInstagram: @debrabrause————————————————————————————————

For ADHDers who feel overwhelmed by the challenges of maintaining focus and managing anxiety around a flood of to-dos and expectations, finding effective strategies can make all the difference.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Dr. Kourosh Dini, a clinical psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, musician, and creator of Waves of Focus, discuss how creative minds, including ADHDers, can harmonize play and productivity without succumbing to stress or societal pressures.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover practical strategies to navigate anxiety and enhance focus: Find out how Dr. Dini's "Waves of Focus" framework can provide actionable techniques to improve your concentration and manage anxiety, tailored specifically for neurodivergent individuals.Deep dive into the fascinating links between creativity, agency, and play: Understand how playful exploration can be a powerful tool in forming your identity and maintaining mental health.Learn about innovative methods to foster a genuine sense of agency: Gain insights into 3 simple practices that can transform your relationship with your tasks and decisions, bolstering your executive function and autonomy.As you reflect on this episode, think about how you can integrate more play into your daily routines and find your internal rhythm. Consider ways to nurture your sense of agency and make mindful choices that align with your true self.More about Dr. Kourosh Dini:As a clinical psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and musician, Kourosh has both experienced and seen the great difficulties creatives as well as those with ADHD or anxiety can have. He created the Waves of Focus, a framework that has fundamentally changed how many of his students and clients engage their work and play.Academics include Northwestern University as a part of the Integrated Science Program with a focus in the neurosciences. His medical degree and residency in adult psychiatry were obtained through the University of Illinois at Chicago.He pursued further studies in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Chicago. Kourosh also practices psychoanalysis having graduated from the Institute for Psychoanalysis, and maintains a private practice in Chicago involving therapy, meditation, and medication management.Author of Creating Flow with OmniFocus, Taking Smart Notes with DEVONthink, and Workflow Mastery.Sign up for the Weekly Wind Down newsletter for a free PDF, "Your First Step to Breaking Free from Force-Based Work” at https://wavesoffocus.com/Your-First-Step-to-Breaking-Free-from-Force-Based%20Work.Get a 2 Weeks/$20 trial subscription to the Waves of Focus membership: https://wavesoffocus.circle.so/checkout/waves-of-focus-dollar20-trial-and-subscriptionWebsites: kouroshdini.com and kouroshdinimd.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kouroshdinimd————————————————————————————————

As a neurodivergent individual, it can sometimes feel like your true self is hidden beneath layers of societal expectations.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Dr. Karissa Burnett, a depth psychologist, trauma specialist, the founder of Divergent Pathways, and a late-diagnosed Autistic ADHDer, discuss the deep inner workings of the mind, the societal challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, and the valuable insights that psychoanalytic therapy can offer. Together, they explore the intersections of depth psychology, authenticity, and the lived experiences of Autistic individuals, aiming to shed light on often misunderstood aspects of mental health.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover how making unconscious feelings and behaviors conscious can lead to significant healing and a deeper understanding of oneself.Gain insights into societal discomfort with authenticity and how autistic behaviors can challenge social norms by exposing hidden realities, framed through a canary-in-the-coal-mine metaphor.Learn about therapeutic approaches like psychoanalytic therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) that go beyond symptom management to understand the underlying reasons for behaviors, offering transformative potential for neurodivergent individuals.As you reflect on today's episode, consider the true self that you might be keeping hidden and think about the societal norms that challenge your authenticity. Remember, making the unconscious conscious is a journey toward healing and self-discovery.NOTE: In this episode, we touch on the concept of "sacred rage," which is explored in-depth by Dr. Jennifer Mullan in her book Decolonizing Therapy.More about Dr. Karissa Burnett:Dr. Karissa Burnett (she/her) is a trailblazing depth psychologist and trauma specialist known for bridging science with soul. As the founder of Divergent Pathways and a late-diagnosed Autistic ADHDer herself, she provides transformative therapeutic assessments that empower clients to embrace their authentic selves. Featured in the American Psychological Association's “Monitor on Psychology" magazine for advancing neurodiversity-affirming care, Dr. Burnett advocates for disability justice, providing consultation to the ACLU and using her voice to promote systemic change.Website: divergentpathways.comFacebook: facebook.com/divergentpathways————————————————————————————————

Navigating the world as a gifted individual can be emotionally taxing and filled with both internal and external challenges that are often dismissed or minimized by oneself and others. The giftedness label is often viewed as a privilege resulting in failure to recognize and offer support for the very real struggles that can come with it.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, open up about their personal experiences and discuss the complexities of giftedness, identity, and coping mechanisms in the context of mental health.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover how giftedness and neurodivergence both intersect and differ, offering nuanced perspectives on recognizing and understanding these traits.Learn about how this giftedness series sparked deep self-reflection for the hosts, creating a space for them and listeners to explore the emotional layers of their experiences.Delve into thoughtful discussions on how societal perceptions of intelligence and privilege impact self-identity and mental health, challenging common assumptions about capability and success.As you reflect on your own experiences or the experiences of those around you, consider the ways in which you navigate your identity and emotions. Remember, it's okay to seek support and embrace your complexities.————————————————————————————————

If you are a regular listener to The Peaceful Parenting Podcast you know that at the end of every Guest Expert interview, I ask them if they could go back in time and give advice to their younger parent self, what advice would they give themselves? There are so many gems of wisdom that come from that question that I thought it would be fun to end 2024 with a mashup of all of the advice from our guests of 2024. We talk about: 3:00 Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) with Casey Ehrlich 4:13 Understanding and Loving Spicy Kids with Mary Van Geffen 5:23 Find Your Unicorn Space with Eve Rodsky 5:54 From Strict Disciplinarian to Peaceful Parenting Dad and Coach with Kyle Wester 8:32 Raising Emotionally Intelligent Kids with Stephanie Pinto 13:17 When Your Child is Different with Sonali Vongchusiri 15:21 Neurodivergent Insights with Dr. Megan Anna Neff 17:31 Parenting Middle Schoolers with Phyllis Fagell 21:00 Conscious Parenting with Destini Davis 22:01 Ruth Whippman Raising Emotionally Healthy Boys- BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood 24:05 ADHD and Feeding/Eating Challenges with Dr. Roberto Olivardia 24:42 How to Help Kids Manage Stress and Difficulty with Ned Johnson 30:08 Greg Santucci on Sensory Processing 33:10 Kristen Day Play Based Learning: Or Why You Don't Need to Get Your Child Ready For Kindergarten 36:33 Why Is Parenting So Hard with Yolanda Williams 38:28 Sexism and Sensibility: Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls in the Modern World with Jo Ann Finkelstein 40:19 School Avoidance and Anxiety with Lynn Lyons 44:32 Strong-Willed Kids with Vivek Patel 46:32 Disordered Eating and Body Image Issues with Luciana Rosu-Sieza and Alexis Sauls Ramos 48:51 How to Help Our Little Ones Sleep with Kim Hawley 52:49 When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic with Jennifer Wallace   Download the episode transcript HERE    Resources mentioned in this episode: Casey Ehrlich https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/episode139/  Mary Van Geffen https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/episode138/  Eve Rodsky https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/episode30/ and Eve's book Find Your Unicorn Space Kyle Wester https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/episode141/  Stephanie Pinto https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/episode-144-raising-emotionally-intelligent-kids/ and Stephanie's Book- From Chaos to Connection  Sonali Vongchusiri https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/episode-146-when-your-child-is-different-with-sonali-vongchusiri/  Dr. Megan Anna Neff https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/neurodivergent-insights-with-dr-megan-anna-neff-episode-147/ and Dr. Neff's book Dr. Megan Anna Neff's book Self-Care for Autistic People: 100+ Ways to Recharge, De-Stress, and Unmask!  Phyllis Fagell https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/parenting-middle-schoolers-with-phyllis-fagell-episode-151/ and Phyllis' books Middle School Matters and Middle School Superpowers Destini Davis https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/conscious-parenting-with-destini-ann-episode-153/ and Destini's book Very Intentional Parenting: Awakening the Empowered Parent Within   Ruth Whippman https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/raising-emotionally-healthy-boys-boymom-reimagining-boyhood-episode-155/ and Ruth's book BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity Ned Johnson https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/how-to-help-kids-manage-stress-and-difficulty-with-ned-johnson-episode-156/ and Ned's books What Do You Say with Ned Johnson and William Stixrud  and Self-Driven Child by William Stixrud (PhD) and Ned Johnson  Dr. Roberto Olivardia https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/adhd-and-feeding-eating-challenges-with-dr-roberto-olivardia-episode-149/  and Dr. Olivardia's book The Adonis Complex: How to Identify, Treat and Prevent Body Obsession in Men and Boys by Dr. Roberto Olivardia Greg Santucci https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/greg-santucci-on-sensory-processing-and-live-qa-with-my-membership-community-episode-157/  Kristen Day https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/play-based-learning-or-why-you-dont-need-to-get-your-child-ready-for-kindergarten-episode-159/  Yoland Williams https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/why-is-parenting-so-hard-with-yolanda-williams-episode-160/  Jo Ann Finkelstein https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/sexism-and-sensibility-raising-empowered-resilient-girls-in-the-modern-world-with-jo-ann-finkelstein-episode-164/  and Jo Ann's book Sexism & Sensibility Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls In The Modern World Lynn Lyons https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/school-avoidance-and-anxiety-with-lynn-lyons-episode-166/ and Lynn's book Anxious Kids Anxious Parents by Lynn Lyons Vivek Patel https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/strong-willed-kids-with-vivek-patel-and-qa-with-membership-episode-168/  Luciana Rosu-Sieza and Alexis Sauls Ramos https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/disordered-eating-and-body-image-issues-with-luciana-rosu-sieza-and-alexis-sauls-ramos-episode-170/  Kim Hawley https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/how-to-help-our-little-ones-sleep-with-kim-hawley-episode-172/  Jennifer Wallace https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/when-achievement-culture-becomes-toxic-with-jennifer-wallace-episode-173/ and Jennifer's book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic- and What We Can Do About It Connect with Sarah Rosensweet:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahrosensweet/  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peacefulparentingfreegroup YouTube: Peaceful Parenting with Sarah Rosensweet @peacefulparentingwithsarah4194  Website: https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com   Join us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/peacefulparenting  Newsletter: https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/newsletter  Book a short consult or coaching session call: https://book-with-sarah-rosensweet.as.me/schedule.php 

As a gifted, BIPOC individual, it can be uniquely challenging to navigate day-to-day experiences and find meaningful connections, especially prior to the discovery of giftedness.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Sheldon Gay, an entrepreneur, podcast host, and the Vice-Chair of the neurodivergent-affirming non-profit, Umbrella US, discuss his unique perspective on being seen beneath our social masks, the societal impact of intellectual identity as a BIPOC human, and his personal self-discovery journey of giftedness.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover the complexities and societal pressures of intellectual identity and how they shape interactions and self-perception, as well as the struggle to find genuine connections while managing unique cognitive abilities.Gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by gifted individuals, especially within marginalized communities. Learn about the burden of expectations, code-switching as a gifted black man, and the journey of self-acceptance.Learn about Sheldon Gay's perspective on navigating biases in professional spaces, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of self-trust and empathy in both personal and professional settings.As you explore the depths of your own identity and capabilities, remember the importance of self-trust and creating spaces where you can be your authentic self. Reflect on how societal expectations may have influenced your journey and seek communities that celebrate your unique experiences and perspectives.More about Sheldon:Sheldon Gay is an entrepreneur with a background in engineering and creating memorable customer experiences. He's worked in various fields, including healthcare, nonprofits, and education-technology. In addition to growing multiple businesses, he is currently the Vice-Chair of the neurodivergent-affirming non-profit, Umbrella US. As a Black man who discovered later in life that he's neurodivergent, he sees the world from a different angle than most. Due to his unique perspective, he knows all too well how it feels to be “the only one” in a room. After intense self-discovery work in his early 40s, he found answers to life-long questions and received freedom from burdens he'd carried since he was a child. Now, he uses his experiences to help others embrace their true selves and release their burdens as well. Sheldon helps his audiences become curious about their minds, combat loneliness through community, and experience peace and joy through authenticity.Website: sheldongayisbugn.comSocial Media: @imustbebugn and @imustbebugn.bsky.social———————————————————————

If you are the parent of a gifted or twice-exceptional (2e) child, you know the unique challenges and pressures these children face.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Dr. Danika Maddocks, a gifted/2e parent coach and owner of The Gifted Learning Lab, discuss the complexities of raising and supporting gifted and 2e kids, including the internal and external pressures, the impact of growth vs. fixed mindsets, and the innovative strategies that can support these exceptional children.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insights into the internal and external pressures that gifted and 2e children face, and how these can lead to intense emotional and psychological distress despite their apparent successes.Explore the influence and impact of a growth mindset vs. a fixed mindset, especially how understanding and fostering the right mindset aids in developing resilience and coping mechanisms for gifted children.Learn practical, neurodiversity-affirming strategies to support a gifted or 2e child's emotional and cognitive development, including effective validation techniques and the importance of environmental fit.As you consider the best ways to support and nurture the gifted children in your life, remember to look beyond labels and standards. Focus on creating environments where their unique abilities can thrive, allowing them to grow and develop a healthy sense of self.More about Danika:Dr. Danika Maddocks is a gifted/2e parent coach and owner of The Gifted Learning Lab. She helps parents let go of standard parenting pressures and build a unique family life that actually works for their kid and themselves. She has supported gifted and twice-exceptional kids, teens, and their families for over 15 years as a teacher, therapist, school consultant, assessment provider, and coach. Her work is also informed by her personal experiences growing up gifted, being a late-identified autistic adult, and raising a young gifted/2e kid.Danika has a free email mini-course called Reduce Power Struggles with Your Gifted/2e Kid. All parents want to feel like they're on the same team as their kid or teen, but gifted/2e parents often feel stuck in negotiations and power struggles, no matter what parenting advice they try. In this free, 5-day mini-course, parents will learn practical strategies to prevent, reduce, and defuse power struggles with their gifted/2e kid or teen. Access the free course: giftedlearninglab.com/powerWebsite: giftedlearninglab.comInstagram: instagram.com/giftedlearninglabFacebook: facebook.com/giftedlearninglab———————————————

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 ————————————————————————————————

On today's episode we're excited to welcome Dr. Megan Anna Neff to the podcast to chat with us about neurodivergence and self-care. Megan is a clinical psychologist, author, and the founder of Neurodivergent Insights. She's written Self-Care for Autistic People and has a new book on autistic burnout coming soon. Megan discovered her own neurodivergence at 37, which sparked her passion for raising awareness around non-stereotypical presentations of autism and ADHD. Through her work, she creates resources to support the neurodivergent community and co-hosts the Divergent Conversations podcast.    On this episode we cover: How Megan thinks about neurodivergence, including side quests into right brain / left brain ideas and the concept of time. (Trust us, it's relevant!) Megan's path to discovering her own neurodivergence, and the relief and grief associated with that. Understanding self-care within our socio-cultural context. A re-imagined definition of self-care. Examples of self-care strategies and ways that we can embed self-care into our everyday functioning. Common blocks to self-care experienced by neurodivergent women, AFAB, and parents. The experience of transitional identity for late diagnosed folks. De-shaming from self-care strategies that may be perceived negatively or have unwanted unintended consequences.   Find Dr Neff's work at her website - https://neurodivergentinsights.com/ - or listen to her on the Divergent Conversations podcast. She is also on Instagram @neurodivergent_insights. Follow her through your preferred medium to be notified when her new book on autistic burnout is released!   Want polished copies of our episodes in beautiful and readable pdf article format? Grab them here.    Enjoyed the episode and want to support us further? Join our Patreon community! Patreon subscribers receive basic episode transcripts from Season 4 onwards, access to a monthly live zoom hang out, 50% off our episode articles, plus bonus monthly content (depending on subscription tier). Check out our Patreon page to support us, as we aim to make quality mental health care information accessible to everyone: www.patreon.com/ndwomanpod.   Contact us at ndwomanpod@gmail.com, or visit our website: www.ndwomanpod.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 ————————————————————————————————

On episode 247, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Dr. Megan Anna Neff to explore the complexities of neurodiversity, and the societal stereotypes that affect their lives. They talk about the challenges of diagnosis, the nuances of misdiagnosis, particularly the overlap between conditions like autism and borderline personality disorder, and the significance of self-awareness and acceptance in the journey of neurodivergent individuals. They discuss the phenomenon of autistic burnout, its implications, the challenges in clinical training regarding autism and ADHD, and inherent inequities that exist because of stereotypes and biases. Takeaways Diagnosis can significantly impact self-understanding and acceptance. Misdiagnosis is common, especially among women and genderqueer individuals. Understanding one's neurodivergent identity can aid in the healing process. The medical community often overlooks non-stereotypical presentations of neurodivergence. Self-criticism can stem from societal pressures and internalized shame. Community and connection are vital for neurodivergent individuals. Many undiagnosed autistic individuals are misdiagnosed with personality disorders. There is a significant lack of training for clinicians on autism and ADHD. Breaking down stigma around neurodivergence requires ongoing effort and advocacy. Autistic burnout includes increased sensory sensitivities and emotional fatigue. Living in a typical societal structure can lead to burnout for autistic individuals. Challenging myths about autism is essential for societal change. Don't forget to join the Neurodiversity Podcast Advocacy & Support Group to keep the conversation going! Dr. Megan Anna Neff (she/they) is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and advocate based in Portland, Oregon. Her work focuses on neurodiversity, spirituality, and holistic mental health. She has published articles and a book exploring diverse topics such as place-attachment, relational psychotherapy, and the African diaspora. Following her own and her child's autism diagnoses, Dr. Neff became a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals. She challenges stereotypes and misconceptions through her writing, speaking engagements, and online presence, including her Instagram platform where she shares educational content and resources. Dr. Neff is dedicated to bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications in the mental health field. She promotes an authentic and holistic approach to mental health that embraces the whole person and acknowledges the impact of systemic issues on individual well-being. BACKGROUND READING Dr. Neff's Instagram Neurodivergent Insights website LinkedIn Facebook Divergent Conversations podcast The Neurodiversity Podcast is available on Facebook and Instagram, and you can also join our private Facebook group.

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 ————————————————————————————————

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 ————————————————————————————————

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. ————————————————————————————————

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)? ————————————————————————————————

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 ————————————————————————————————

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 ————————————————————————————————

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. ————————————————————————————————

Why are neurodivergent people at an increased risk of experiencing trauma? In this episode, Livia Sara chats with Dr. Neff, a neurodivergent psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights where she creates education and wellness resources for neurodivergent adults. Dr. Neff is the author of the book “Self-Care for Autistic People” and she has published in several peer-reviewed journals. Passionate about distilling complex research into visually accessible formats, she translates research into visual pixels which you can find on her website, Instagram, and digital workbooks. Beyond her visual endeavors, Dr. Neff co-hosts the "Divergent Conversations" podcast and spearheads a vibrant learning community tailored for neurodivergent adults. We discuss: Struggles with mental health as an undiagnosed autistic child Using external identities for structure and a sense of self Increased susceptibility of autistic individuals to trauma Concept of traumatic invalidation and its impact on the self Raising children with neurodivergent needs, including ARFID Creating a neurodiversity-affirming environment

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. ————————————————————————————————

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 ————————————————————————————————

There is a staggering number of adults with ADHD, autism, and neurodivergence, who have yet to be diagnosed. Even in the age of information, many adults don't realize they are wired differently until their children are diagnosed. This can create all sorts of issues in the nervous system for these folks, by suppressing, repressing, masking their true selves, and feelings of inadequacy can take a toll. This is why a diagnosis is so important when it comes to these types of disorders, because once we can name and identify what is going on in our mind and body, we can learn how to work with our unique wiring and turn what once felt like a burden into a gift. On today's episode, our hosts Elisabeth and Jennifer are joined by clinical psychologist, researcher, and writer, Dr. Megan Anna Neff. They discuss neurodivergence, autism, ADHD, and its intricacies in children, adults, and the power of a diagnosis. They also discuss how these disorders can be easily masked, hidden behind feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness, and there is an eye opening discussion about how neurodivergence is complex trauma. We are just learning about how prevalent these disorders are, and how diagnosing them can be a challenge, especially in certain groups of people who have become really skilled at masking their symptoms. This is why these discussions are so important, especially with an expert like Dr. Megan Anna Neff, so we can understand ourselves and others on a deeper level and without judgment. Tune in for this and more! Topics discussed in this episode:   Dr. Megan Anna Neff's diagnosis journey The benefits of an autism diagnosis The impact of our disconnection from our humanness Is complex trauma a neurodivergence? Identifying with a neurodivergent diagnosis Dr. Megan Anna Nef's first signs of neurodivergence  Negative self talk that comes with neurodivergence How dissociation can be related to high sensitivity What is alexithymia and who does it affect? Gender bias in autism research Why Aspergers isn't diagnosed anymore Neurodivergence is genetic    To learn more about Dr. Megan Anna Neff visit their website here: https://www.meganannaneff.com/ Connect with Dr. Megan Anna Neff on Instagram here:  https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergent_insights/ Resources mentioned in the episode: Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World That Wasn't Designed for You by Jenara Nerenberg Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity by Devon Price Is This Autism?: A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else by Donna Henderson and Sarah Wayland Contact us about private Rewire Neuro-Somatic Coaching: https://brainbased-wellness.com/rewire-private-neuro-somatic-coaching/   Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the fall cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com   Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired   This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com Trauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear.  We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being.  If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  If someone's life is in danger, immediately call 911.  We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available.  We don't warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It's very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren't responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We  invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don't verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs.  We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis.  Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.  We've done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at traumarewired@gmail.com  All rights in our content are reserved  

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. ——————————————————————————————————

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. ——————————————————————————————————

Today, we're diving into a topic that will probably resonate with every parent: helping kids navigate the complex emotion of anger. And to explore this critical topic, I'm excited to welcome back the insightful Ginger Whitson, who will share her expertise while we discuss her book How to Be Angry: Strategies to Help Kids Express Anger Constructively. We know that anger is a normal, natural, and physiological experience that all human beings are born with the capacity to feel. Yet many neurodivergent kids struggle with knowing how to experience and express their anger constructively, and they are in need of strategies and non-shaming guidance rather than what so often happens – they are punished for their behavior. So that's what we get into in this episode — why anger in children can be so uncomfortable for adults to tolerate or respond to, strategies for teaching children alternatives to aggression, violence, or passive behavior, name assertiveness, the importance of adults stepping in as calm presences to help regulate a child's emotions and foster healthy coping mechanisms, and more. By equipping our kids with these tools, we can support their emotional development and help them navigate their feelings more effectively. Enjoy this wisdom-packed episode with Ginger Whitson. About Ginger Whitson Signe Whitson (Ginger) is a licensed social worker and international educator on topics related to child & adolescent mental health. She is the author of seven books, including How to Be Angry: Strategies to Help Kids Express Anger Constructively. Ginger is also the Dean of Students at a K-8 school in northeastern Massachusetts and the COO of the Life Space Crisis Intervention Institute.   Things you'll learn Why anger is a normal, natural, and physiological experience that all human beings are born with the capacity to feel How the way individuals perceive events determines whether they feel anger, and why it varies from person to person Why children who are aggressive or have difficulty managing their anger need adults to help them learn skills to express their anger constructively, rather than being punished for their behavior Why being a calm presence for an angry child essential for helping them regulate their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms How teaching children assertiveness skills and providing them with alternatives to aggression, violence, or passive behavior contributes to their emotional development   Resources mentioned Signe Whitson's website How to Be Angry: Strategies to Help Kids Express Anger Constructively by Signe Whitson Life Space Crisis Intervention Institute 8 Keys to End Bullying on Facebook 8 Keys to End Bullying: Strategies for Parents & Schools by Signe Whitson The 8 Keys to End Bullying Activity Book for Kids & Tweens: Worksheets, Quizzes, Games, & Skills for Putting the Keys Into Action by Signe Whitson  Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Dr. Debra Brause on the Question: Does Traditional Therapy Work for Neurodivergent Kids? (Tilt Parenting episode) Dr. Mona Delahooke on the Power of Brain-Body Parenting (Tilt Parenting episode) Raising Good Humans with Mindful Mentor Mama Hunter Clarke-Fields (Tilt Parenting episode) Dr. Lori Desautels on Rethinking Our Perceptions of Discipline in Schools and at Home (Tilt Parenting episode)   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. ——————————————————————————————————

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 ——————————————————————————————————

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 ——————————————————————————————————

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 ——————————————————————————————————

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 ——————————————————————————————————

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 ——————————————————————————————————

I'm SOOO excited to share this conversation with you, as it's been a few months in the making and it's on a topic I'm personally very interested in and I feel like not enough people are talking about — and that topic is, the intersection of traditional therapeutic modalities and neurodivergence. Specifically, I wanted to examine how some therapies may not meet the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals and what it means for a therapist to be truly neurodivergent-affirming.  And I have two wonderful guests to get into it with me — author, parent of neurodivergent children and neurodivergent clinical psychologist Dr. Megan Anna Neff, who's been on this show twice before, and Dr. Debra Brause, the parent of an autistic ADHDer, and a licensed psychologist and therapist who works from a neurodivergent-affirming stance. And get into it we do. In this conversation, Megan Anna, Debra, and I explore what some limitations and challenges are for neurodivergent clients working with therapists who don't understand their neurotypes, how therapeutic approaches can be adapted to provide sensory safety and center the client's experience and agency, why cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) may not be as effective for differently wired people, as well as the potential limitations of standard strategies like mindfulness and visualization as. Most importantly, we'll discuss the qualities to look for in a therapist who is truly neurodivergent affirming —what that means, and how it can make all the difference in a child's therapeutic journey. Megan Anna and Debra shared a lot of resources as well that you can go back to if you are a parent looking to get your child therapy.    About my guests Dr. Megan Anna Neff is the founder of Neurodivergent Insights where she creates education and wellness resources for neurodivergent adults, the co-host of the Divergent Conversations podcast, and the author of Self-Care For Autistic People, which is the book we talked about last time she was on the show. As a late-diagnosed AuDHDer , Dr. Neff applies their lived experiences to their professional focus. They are committed to broadening the mental health field's understanding of autism and ADHD beyond traditional stereotypes.  Dr. Debra Brause helps couples embrace who their children are, and provides support and guidance through this unique journey. Her professional training includes diagnostic assessment for learning disabilities at the UCLA Office for Students with Disabilities, and clinical work in community mental health settings including The Southern California Counseling Center and the Maple Counseling Center.  Things you'll learn Why traditional therapy may not meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals How emotional regulation strategies might be adapted to provide sensory safety as a foundation for regulation The role of “goals” in therapy with adolescents and the importance of centering client experience and agency Ways in which CBT and DBT may not be as effective with differently wired people What the potential limitations of mindfulness and visualization as therapeutic strategies are in some neurodivergent clients Qualities to look for in a therapist who is truly “neurodivergent affirming” (as well as what that actually means)   Resources mentioned Dr. Megan Anna Neff's website Dr. Debra Brause's website Self-Care For Autistic People by Dr. Megan Anna Neff * A special bonus offer for Tilt Parenting community * Dr. Megan Anna Neff's Psychology Today blog Dr. Debra Brause's Psychology Today blog Divergent Conversations Podcast Neurodivergent Insights on Instagram Neurodivergent Insights on Facebook Dr. Megan Anna Neff on LinkedIn Dr. Megan Anna Neff's Link in Bio Neurodivergent Therapist Directory Therapist Neurodiversity Collective Directory   Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here → https://nordvpn.com/tilt - It's risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I've done one episode just about self-care for this show — it's a solocast from five years ago where I shared twelve strategies and ideas for creating a sustainable, doable self-care practice. I'll have a link to that in the show notes page for this episode. Today's episode is about self-care, too, but the focus is on self-care for autistic people, and joining me is return guest Dr. Megan Anna Neff of Neurodivergent Insights. Megan Anna has just published a brand new book called Self-Care for Autistic People: 100+ Ways to Recharge, De-Stress, and Unmask! which she wrote to help autistic people accept themselves, destigmatize autism, find community, and take care of physical and mental health. I really enjoyed going inside this book because, as we discuss, self-care is so much more than what it appears to be on the surface. Megan Anna considers self-care to be a collective effort that includes the well-being of the community, a framework that really resonated with me. So we talk about that, along with other ideas from Megan Anna's book, including how internalized ableism can hinder self-care, considerations for navigating self-care for individuals with PDA, and insights into co-regulation, sensory considerations, and how advocacy and accommodations in the workplace can also be forms of self-care.   About Dr. Megan Anna Neff Dr. Megan Anna Neff (she/they) is a neurodivergent Clinical Psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights where she creates education and wellness resources for neurodivergent adults. Additionally, she is co-host of the Divergent Conversations podcast. As a late-diagnosed AuDHDer (Autistic ADHD), Dr. Neff applies their lived experiences from a cross-neurotype marriage and parenting neurodivergent children to their professional focus. They are committed to broadening the mental health field's understanding of autism and ADHD beyond traditional stereotypes. This personal-professional blend enriches their work and advocacy within neurodiversity. Dr. Neff is the author of Self-Care for Autistic People and a forthcoming book on Autistic Burnout. Additionally, she has published in several peer-reviewed journals on topics ranging from neurodivergence, place attachment, relational psychoanalysis, social psychology, and integration of spirituality into psychotherapy. Passionate about distilling complex research into visually accessible formats, she translates research into visual pixels which you can find on her website, Instagram, and digital workbooks. Additionally, Dr. Neff is passionate about community building and creating digital communities by and for neurodivergent individuals.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why self-care should be approached with self-attunement and an understanding of one's own needs Why self-care is a collective effort that includes the well-being of the community How internalized ableism can hinder self-care and why it's important to address it Ideas for navigating self-care for individuals with PDA regarding autonomy, co-regulation, and sensory considerations Ways to practice self-care in the workplace, including self-disclosure, documentation, and setting realistic expectations   Resources mentioned for Self-Care for Autistic People Dr. Megan Anna Neff's website Self-Care For Autistic People by Dr. Megan Anna Neff * A special bonus offer for Tilt Parenting community * Divergent Conversations Podcast Neurodivergent Insights on Instagram Neurodivergent Insights on Facebook Dr. Megan Anna Neff on LinkedIn Dr. Megan Anna Neff's Link in Bio Dr. Megan Anna Neff on Diagnoses and Misdiagnoses (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Sarah Wayland Is This Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else by Dr. Donna Henderson and Dr. Sarah Wayland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices