How do ADHD, trauma, and addiction intersect, and what strategies can help break this harmful cycle? In this episode, Tracy Otsuka speaks with Andrea Epting, a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in trauma recovery, addiction, and neurodivergence. As a professional with ADHD and OCD, and a mother to two neurodivergent young adults, Andrea brings both personal insight and professional expertise to the conversation.Andrea delves into the often-overlooked connection between ADHD and addiction, explaining how trauma, emotional dysregulation, and a search for dopamine can create vulnerabilities. She shares her therapeutic approach to recovery, emphasizing the importance of abstinence, community, and replacing unhealthy habits with meaningful alternatives. Andrea also highlights the unique challenges ADHD women face in emotional regulation and how breaking harmful cycles can lead to resilience and healing.This episode provides strategies for navigating the intersections of ADHD, trauma, and recovery. Andrea offers insights into the role of mindfulness, self-compassion, and creating structure in building healthier habits. She also discusses her work through her nonprofit, Heads-Up Guidance Services (HUGS), to make mental health resources more accessible.ResourcesWebsite: lightninginabottle.bizheadsupsavannah.org/PlannerSocial Media:instagram.com/liab_lightninginabottle pinterest.com/liablightninginabottle youtube.com/@directimpactimpactae  Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/bookJoin Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aokVisit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.comJoin our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/classUnlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blendsSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

Izzie Chea, an educator and neurodivergence advocate, shares her empowering journey after a late ADHD diagnosis. She discusses how growing up in a traditional Latinx environment influenced her experiences and fueled her passion for advocacy. Izzie highlights her innovative projects, including La Neuropicante and the Hiki app, aimed at uplifting neurodivergent voices. She also offers practical productivity tips and emphasizes the importance of mental health and community support, showcasing how her challenges transformed into opportunities for growth.

Explore the brilliance of ADHD minds in a chaotic world! Discover how ADHD women navigate overwhelm, harness creativity, and cultivate meaningful connections. Practical strategies like breaking tasks into micro-goals can lead to clarity and focus. Learn about the A-OK system that empowers small steps for big changes. Tracy shares personal stories and insights that highlight the unique strengths of ADHD traits and encourage listeners to embrace their authenticity. It's a motivating reminder of the incredible achievements possible with ADHD!

Dr. Idit Hazan, a genetics and molecular biology expert from Grand View University, argues that ADHD should be seen as a natural human variation rather than a disorder. She shares her personal journey embracing ADHD traits that enhance creativity and problem-solving skills. The discussion delves into the genetic landscape of ADHD, highlighting the evolutionary advantages of traits linked to the DRD4 gene. Dr. Hazan emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and innovative teaching methods for neurodiverse learners, showcasing the potential of neurodivergence in driving societal change.

Luci Taylor, author of the "Midwestern Bookish Belles" series, reimagines heroines with neurodivergent traits, sharing her inspiring journey of self-discovery post-ADHD diagnosis. She discusses how understanding her ADHD empowered her creativity, leading to the completion of her first book. Luci highlights the importance of community support and using unique strategies, like colorful Post-it notes, to organize her thoughts. Her story encourages aspiring neurodivergent writers to embrace their quirks and showcases literature's power to reflect diverse experiences.

Katy Weber, an ADHD advocate and certified health coach, shares her transformative journey after being diagnosed at 45. Reflecting on her background as a journalist, she emphasizes the importance of community among neurodivergent women. Topics include the complex connection between ADHD and binge eating, her experiences in parenting and academia, and the role of her podcast in fostering connections. Katy also discusses the challenges women face regarding identity and workplace dynamics, all while embracing a holistic approach to well-being.

Breanna Autolitano, a mother of nine, mindfulness expert, and compassionate communication specialist, shares her transformative journey through ADHD and autism. She discusses the importance of self-compassion and mindfulness in navigating family dynamics. Breanna emphasizes the need for structured systems to support neurodiverse families and highlights practical tools for emotional regulation. Her insights into empathy and communication not only foster understanding with children but also promote personal growth, illustrating the power of connection in challenging situations.

Kristen West, founder of The Centered Life Co., shares her inspiring journey of managing ADHD with humor and creativity. She highlights the transformative impact of her diagnosis on her work and life, turning challenges into strengths. Kristen discusses her ADHD-friendly productivity tools that incorporate joy and play, proving that being organized can be fun. With over half a million followers, she inspires others to embrace their unique quirks. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and celebrating personal differences in the quest for balance.

In this engaging conversation, Yolanda Y. Liou, a Taiwanese-born multidisciplinary artist in London, shares how art became her refuge in navigating life with ADHD and a recent autism diagnosis. She discusses her misdiagnosis journey, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and creativity as therapeutic tools. Yolanda highlights her projects that challenge beauty standards and promote authenticity, revealing the empowering impact of embracing neurodivergence. Her insights on empathy, productivity, and self-care provide fresh perspectives on mental well-being and self-expression.

Imagine trying to visualize something in your mind, only to be met with a blank canvas. This is the reality for people with aphantasia, a condition where the mind's eye struggles to conjure images. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I'm joined by Dr. Chelsea Twiss, a licensed psychologist from Colorado with an impressive background. She specializes in ADHD, women's health, chronic pain, and relationships, and conducts psychological testing with a focus on adult ADHD. As if that wasn't enough, she's also a talented musician and artist, holding a doctorate in counseling psychology from New Mexico State University.Interestingly, Chelsea experiences hyperphantasia, the opposite of aphantasia, where mental imagery is remarkably vivid and detailed. Her research delves into the fascinating connections between ADHD, trauma, and brain function, particularly in relation to visual memory and identity. Our conversation explores how cognitive differences like aphantasia and hyperphantasia can significantly influence the ADHD experience, especially for women who often face unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Twiss and I discuss the ways in which ADHD can alter how we perceive and process visual information, highlighting the importance of understanding these nuances when diagnosing and treating ADHD, particularly in women who are frequently misunderstood and underdiagnosed. Resources: Website: https://www.drchelseatwisscounseling.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healththruconnection/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-twiss-755092196/ Eastwood & Holly - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iyNkncezKr61GX7GVMHvN?si=yN4oLcwFRwyVvKf4jKb9lQ Russick Smith - Cello Trees 🌲 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnNvvMVcy_Y ___Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/bookJoin Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aokVisit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.comJoin our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/classUnlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blendsSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message