Think Differently with Dr. Theresa Haskins

Send us a textPsychological safety is more than a buzzword—it’s the missing link in many well-intended neuroinclusion efforts. In this episode, Dr. Theresa Haskins explains why many workplace strategies fail to succeed, despite the presence of accommodations and flexible policies. Through a practical lens, she examines how environments built on compliance rather than care often overlook the root of what makes inclusion sustainable. If you’ve ever wondered why neurodivergent talent leaves—or never fully thrives—this episode offers a deeper look at what needs to change.

Send us a textWhen someone you love receives an autism or ADHD diagnosis, you expect clarity. But what often follows is a tidal wave of opinions, advice, and pressure — from doctors, family members, social media, and even strangers. In this episode, Dr. Theresa Haskins explores the emotional aftermath of a diagnosis, the weight of conflicting information, and the quiet grief that we rarely discuss. With honesty and insight, she reminds listeners that it's okay to pause, question, and trust your own path — even when the world insists it knows better.Whether you're a parent, educator, or newly diagnosed adult, this episode offers support, validation, and a steady voice amid the noise.

Send us a textAs parents, educators, or managers, we often feel that advocacy means speaking up, pushing forward, and doing the work for someone else. But the real end goal of advocacy isn’t stepping in — it’s stepping back.In this episode, Dr. Theresa Haskins explores one of the toughest transitions we face: learning when to shift from speaking for someone to preparing them to speak for themselves. From high school IEP meetings to college disability services, to the workplace where parent involvement isn’t tolerated, she unpacks what stepping back really looks like — and why it’s essential for building trust, independence, and self-advocacy.You’ll walk away with practical ways to scaffold these conversations, model collaborative communication, and ultimately empower your teen, student, or employee to take ownership of their needs. Because real advocacy isn’t about fighting harder — it’s about setting up others for success.

Send us a textFall is a season of fresh starts — but also one of the hardest times of year for life transitions. Kids head back to school, young adults leave for college or step into their first jobs, workplaces push toward year-end goals, and families juggle new routines. These transitions don’t just feel unsettling — they truly are hard. In this episode of Think Differently, Dr. Theresa Haskins unpacks the psychology of life transitions: what happens in our brains when routines shift, why these changes hit autistic and ADHD individuals especially hard, and how pausing, reframing, and the right kind of support can turn chaos into clarity.

Exploring the complexities of neurodiversity reveals surprising gaps in representation. The conversation highlights how well-meaning advocacy can foster blind spots, unintentionally leaving some communities behind. Real-world examples underscore the urgent need for intentional inclusion to ensure no one remains outside the movement. As the neurodiversity landscape evolves, it's crucial to recognize the barriers that certain groups face. True neuroinclusion isn't just about opening doors; it requires a commitment to welcoming everyone inside.

Good intentions can sometimes create barriers for neurodivergent individuals. The discussion reveals how protection and bias, often masked as care, can lead to exclusion in workplaces and schools. Inspiring stories of leadership and parenting illustrate the disconnect between intent and impact. A call for actionable support emphasizes the need for trust to empower neurodivergent people. Ultimately, the journey shifts from being barriers to becoming bridges for inclusion.

Everyday experiences can become overwhelming for neurodivergent individuals, where even a simple condiment can derail a meal. The discussion dives into often-overlooked challenges like Misokinesia and Misophonia, emphasizing the invisible labor required to navigate sensitivities. Personal stories reveal how these moments affect social interactions and relationships. There's a strong call for respect and understanding to foster inclusion, highlighting the need for accommodations in daily life.

Discover the profound challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals as they navigate a world filled with rejections. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy to redefine personal value and pursue opportunities. Personal growth takes center stage, emphasizing that individual success contributes to collective well-being. Listeners are encouraged to challenge societal norms and reclaim their self-worth while fostering a more inclusive future. It's a rallying call for resilience and collaboration in the face of adversity.

Navigating the landscape of neuroinclusion reveals daunting systemic barriers. Policies and gatekeepers perpetuate challenges in education and employment for neurodivergent individuals. The discussion emphasizes the need for a shift towards inclusive practices, prioritizing skills over traditional criteria. Ongoing advocacy is essential to dismantle these obstacles, celebrating the unique strengths of diverse talent. The call to action is clear: together, we can forge a path toward a more inclusive society for all.

Christal Wang, founder of Shimmer ADHD Coaching, specializes in empowering teens and adults with ADHD through practical strategies. She discusses the shortcomings in traditional ADHD support systems that focus on childhood, emphasizing the need for real-world applications in everyday life. Christal highlights the importance of ADHD coaching over therapy, shares self-coaching techniques, and advocates for a shift towards embracing neurodiversity. The conversation inspires listeners to appreciate their unique strengths and value personal growth on their journey.