Licensed professional counselor and twice-exceptional individual, Emily Kircher-Morris, discusses the intersection of giftedness and learning disabilities. Topics include the challenges of being 2e, navigating social interactions for autistic adults, complexities of masking behavior, and evolving challenges of ADHD and parenting neurodivergent kids.

Emily Kircher-Morris, a Licensed Professional Counselor and host of The Neurodiversity Podcast, joins Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff to delve deep into the multifaceted concept of giftedness. They explore how it intersects with neurodivergence, discussing the limitations of traditional IQ measures. The trio highlights the emotional struggles gifted individuals face, including perfectionism and social connections, while advocating for personalized educational approaches. They also illuminate the concept of overexcitability, emphasizing the unique sensitivities that shape the gifted experience.

During Autism Acceptance Month, we’re reminding anyone who will listen that acting differently, speaking differently, or following different social rules, doesn’t make someone less human or deserving of respect. Dr. Barry Prizant is the author of Uniquely Human, and joins Emily Kircher-Morris to talk about moving the concept of neurodiversity forward, and how we can continue advancing society toward equality and respect for everyone, regardless of their wiring. This is a previously published interview with updated information for AAM 2023. Our new program is SPACE - Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions. To register for SPACE, submit your information through this portal. For more details go to Neurodiversity University. Emily is a co-author of A Parent’s Guide to Gifted Children (2nd edition), which will be released April 11! For 25% off, click here and use the discount code NDPOD25. ABOUT THE GUEST Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP is among the world’s leading authorities on autism and neurodevelopmental conditions, and is recognized as an innovator of respectful, person- and family-centered approaches for autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families. With fifty years of experience as a clinical scholar, researcher, and international consultant, he is a Visiting Scholar at Brown University, a certified speech-language pathologist, and director of Childhood Communication Services at his private practice. Barry is coauthor of The SCERTS Model: A Comprehensive Educational Approach, now being implemented in more than a dozen countries. He has published four books, more than 140 articles and chapters and has received many awards, including the Honors of the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association (their highest recognition), the Princeton University Eden Foundation career award for improving quality of life for persons on the autism spectrum, and the Divine Neurotypical Award of GRASP, the world's largest autistic self-advocacy organization. He has been a two-time featured presenter at the United Nations on World Autism Awareness Day. His recent best-selling book, Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism is now published in 22 languages, and he co-hosts and co-produces Uniquely Human: The Podcast. BACKGROUND READING Barry’s website Uniquely Human, the Podcast Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism (book)

Exploring the challenges neurodivergent individuals, especially those with ADHD, face in building friendships. Discussing rejection sensitivity, lack of social skills support, and ways to boost confidence. Highlighting the importance of shared interests, positive self-talk, and balancing online and in-person friendships.

Emily Kircher-Morris, an advocate for gifted students' emotional needs, joins Christine Fonseca, a licensed educational psychologist and author, to discuss the emotional intensity experienced by gifted individuals. They delve into the unique processing of emotions among the gifted and the concept of overexcitabilities. Emphasizing the importance of accepting these traits, they argue against pathologizing giftedness and advocate for creating supportive learning environments. The conversation highlights the value of embracing discomfort on the journey to personal growth.

Emily Kircher-Morris, host of The Neurodiversity Podcast, discusses self-criticism, parenting, overwhelm, and mental health support strategies for neurodivergent individuals. They also explore the positive aspects of neurodiversity and the importance of having realistic expectations for happiness. Emily shares information about her ADHD coaching organization.

Emily Kircher-Morris, an expert in auditory processing differences, is joined by Dr. Austina De Bonte, who provides valuable insights on overcoming these challenges. They discuss how auditory processing issues can often be confused with attention problems and the toll it takes on well-being. Dr. De Bonte presents innovative testing methodologies and groundbreaking auditory devices like ear filters that enhance sound perception. They also highlight the Able Kids Foundation's unique approach to support those navigating auditory processing difficulties.

Explore neuro-affirming parenting and teaching with Emily Kircher-Morris. Learn about embracing authenticity, recognizing strengths, and creating safe environments for neurodivergent kids. Discuss the challenges of masking behaviors, diverse communication styles, and the importance of self-advocacy. Discover the 'double empathy problem' and the celebration of individuality within the neurodiverse community.

Mary Martin, a somatic-centered psychotherapist specializing in neurodivergent therapy, joins advocate Emily Kircher-Morris to explore somatic strategies for well-being. They discuss the critical body-brain connection and how somatic therapy enhances emotional regulation through body awareness and movement. Techniques like breathwork and vagal toning are presented as tools for nervous system regulation, especially beneficial for neurodivergent individuals. They also touch on the Neurodiversity movement, emphasizing inclusive practices for supporting all learners.

Amanda Morin, an expert in advocating for neurodivergent children, joins Emily Kircher-Morris, who specializes in educational support for neurodivergent individuals. They discuss navigating Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), emphasizing that these plans offer vital support tailored to each child's needs. Highlights include the complexities of qualifying for IEPs, understanding behavior as communication, and the challenges faced by twice-exceptional kids. The episode underscores the power of advocacy and collaboration between parents and educators to foster inclusive learning environments.