Neurodivergence and Teens with Dr Michelle Garnett
Apr 20, 2025
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Dr. Michelle Garnett, a clinical psychologist and late-diagnosed AuDHDer, shares her insights on neurodivergence in teens. She discusses her own journey with anxiety and finding effective coping mechanisms. The conversation highlights the unique challenges neurodivergent teens face during adolescence, including social pressures and identity formation. Michelle emphasizes the importance of tailored support for these individuals and offers practical tips for parents to help their children navigate this transformative stage with empathy and understanding.
Dr. Michelle Garnett emphasizes the importance of neuroaffirming care, reframing neurodivergence as unique strengths rather than merely disabilities.
The transition to teenage years presents unique challenges for neurodivergent individuals, often heightening anxiety and complicating emotional regulation.
Identity formation in neurodivergent teens is crucial, requiring validation and support to navigate societal perceptions and personal self-concept.
Deep dives
Launch of Live Q&A Event
The podcast announces the hosting of its first live Q&A event, aimed at creating an interactive experience with listeners. Scheduled for June 27, the event will allow participants to engage from home and submit questions upon ticket registration. Ticket holders will also have access to a recording of the event for later viewing. This initiative marks a return to the Q&A format previously enjoyed by listeners, enhancing community engagement.
Introduction of the Hosts and Their Mission
The hosts, Monique Mitchelson and Michelle Liboff, share their backgrounds as a neurodivergent clinical psychologist and a neurotypical clinical neuropsychologist, respectively. They bonded over their shared interests in feminism and yoga, which inspired the creation of the podcast. The mission of the podcast is to provide a supportive resource for adult neurodivergent women, emphasizing both clinical expertise and lived experiences. Each episode features discussions on various topics impacting neurodivergent women, including autism and ADHD.
Dr. Michelle Garnett's Insights on Neurodivergence
Dr. Michelle Garnett, a prominent clinical psychologist, shares her rich experience in the autistic community and emphasizes the importance of neuroaffirming care. She discusses how the label of autism has evolved, shifting from a disability focus to recognizing the unique strengths and perspectives of autistic individuals. Dr. Garnett urges the importance of understanding neurodivergence as not merely a set of challenges but as diverse operating systems that inform different ways of being. This reframing is crucial in fostering acceptance and inclusion.
Challenges of Neurodivergent Teens
The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent adolescents, particularly during the transition into teenage years. Factors such as hormonal changes contribute to heightened anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties, which can manifest as social withdrawal or behavioral issues. Dr. Garnett emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in recognizing that these challenges are often not about defiance but rather the result of a lack of coping strategies. The significance of building supportive environments and relationships for neurodivergent teens is paramount.
Navigating Identity Formation as a Neurodivergent Teen
The podcast addresses the complexities of identity formation for neurodivergent teenagers, focusing on their internal struggles and societal perceptions. Many face challenges in self-concept due to bullying or rejection, leading to negative self-identifications. Dr. Garnett emphasizes that the process of understanding oneself should be grounded in personal experiences rather than imposed labels. It is crucial for teens to feel seen and validated in their journey towards self-acceptance.
Advice for Neurodivergent Teens
Dr. Garnett provides actionable tips for neurodivergent teens to navigate their unique experiences. She encourages exploration of personal passions, building relationships with understanding peers, and practicing self-compassion. Teens are validated in their confusion and uncertainty, and it is emphasized that learning to manage emotions is key to self-acceptance. Each suggestion is intended to empower teens to embrace their differences and foster a sense of belonging.
On today’s episode we are deeply honoured to have Dr Michelle Garnett speaking with us about neurodivergence in the teen years, as well as her own life experience as a neurodivergent woman. Dr Garnett is a clinical psychologist, author, and late-diagnosed AuDHDer, and she has worked in the autistic community for over 30 years. Listeners would likely know her as the co-founder of Attwood & Garnett Events, with Professor Tony Attwood. Dr Garnett is a leading voice in neuro-affirming care, research, and advocacy.
We cover:
What neurodivergence means to Michelle.
Michelle’s experience of her neurodivergence and anxiety throughout her life, and things that she has personally found helpful in managing anxiety.
[We get here at about the 40 minute mark!] Reasons why the transition to the teen years can be so challenging for neurodivergence teens and their families, including neurological changes and differences, and school and the broader environment.
Identity formation in the teen years for neurodivergent teens.
Making room for your own emotions as a parent.
Signs to look out for that may indicate your young person is struggling.
Tips for parents and caregivers supporting neurodivergent young people.
Michelle’s five key messages for neurodivergent teens.
Got questions for us?? Come along to our LIVE Q&A event! Held online on 27th June (with replay available to all ticket holders). Grab a ticket here and submit your question!
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