Learn Smarter Podcast 142: Understanding Autism in Girls with Dr. Donna Henderson – Part 2 (Professionals Series)
Feb 9, 2021
Dr. Donna Henderson, a clinical psychologist specializing in autism in girls, joins the hosts to shed light on the nuances of autism diagnoses. She discusses the emotional journeys families face upon receiving a diagnosis, including feelings of relief and guilt. The conversation delves into 'context blindness,' explaining how it impacts autistic individuals' understanding of their surroundings. Additionally, they explore the challenges of interoception and sensory sensitivities, urging for more awareness and support in educational settings.
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Interoception Variations in Autism
- Autistic children can have unusual interoception, meaning body signals to the brain can be distorted or atypical.
- This affects their ability to perceive hunger, pain, anxiety, and other internal sensations.
NVLD Overlaps with Autism
- Nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD) is often a cognitive profile seen in autistic individuals with strong language but weaker visual-spatial skills.
- Donna Henderson views many NVLD cases as subtle autism presentations rather than distinct diagnoses.
Validate Parental Emotions Post-Diagnosis
- Validate parents' complex emotions when delivering an autism diagnosis including relief, anger, guilt, and disappointment.
- Reassure parents that delayed diagnosis is common and guilt is a natural feeling but not a truth about responsibility.
