Neurodiversity Podcast

In this episode of the Neurodiversity Podcast, Emily Kircher-Morris answers questions submitted by members of the Neurodiversity Podcast Advocacy and Support Group on Facebook. The questions cover a range of topics including co-occurrence between ADHD and dyslexia, word disability, gifted kids who are anxious, 504 denial in schools, learning disabilities + high cognition, and many more of your questions. The episode provides insights, strategies, and resources for parents and individuals navigating neurodiversity. To submit questions for our next AMA, join the Neurodiversity Podcast Advocacy & Support Group on Facebook!

Dr. Megan Anna Neff, a clinical psychologist and advocate for neurodiversity, dives into the intricacies of neurodivergence and the impact of societal stereotypes. They discuss the nuances of diagnosis and how misdiagnoses, particularly among women and genderqueer individuals, can skew self-understanding. Dr. Neff highlights the phenomenon of autistic burnout, linked to increased sensory sensitivities and emotional fatigue. Lastly, the conversation emphasizes the importance of community connection and ongoing advocacy to challenge biases and redefine support for neurodivergent individuals.

Dr. Donna Henderson, a seasoned clinical neuropsychologist and co-author of a pivotal autism guide, shares her insights on the evolving assessment of autism. She discusses the shift from rigid testing to understanding individual experiences and the crucial role of therapist empowerment in diagnosis. The conversation dives deep into masking, highlighting its complexities and the quest for balance in supporting neurodiverse individuals. Henderson also unpacks the nuances of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), advocating for a clearer understanding to improve support and reduce stigma.

Join Dr. Brandi Walker, a retired Army clinical psychologist with expertise in ADHD, as she shares her unique journey from fuel handler to psychologist. She dives into the challenges neurodivergent individuals face when considering military service, including recruitment policies and waiver processes. Dr. Walker discusses the dual role of supporting soldiers while being one herself, and offers valuable advice for young neurodivergent individuals. Discover how structured environments can help, and the need for support systems, especially for military parents of neurodivergent children.

Carrie Bonnett, a veteran teacher and executive function coach, shares her insights on the critical role of executive functioning in the lives of neurodivergent individuals. She discusses strategies to enhance time management and emotional regulation, emphasizing that motivation often follows action. The conversation also touches on breaking tasks into manageable steps and the necessity of understanding each student's unique challenges. Carrie reassures listeners that they are not alone in their struggles and underscores the importance of empathy in educational settings.

Lindsay Lee, an educational scholar and author, discusses the nuances of impostor syndrome, particularly among gifted and neurodivergent individuals. She highlights the connection between this phenomenon and perfectionism, exploring its impact on self-perception. Lindsay also emphasizes the importance of educator support for neurodivergent learners, especially in navigating feelings of inadequacy. The conversation delves into strategies like fostering self-compassion and creating supportive environments to help students overcome these challenges.

Dr. Matt Zakreski, a clinical psychologist and author dedicated to neurodiversity-affirming practices, discusses vital themes surrounding neurodivergent individuals. He emphasizes the importance of strengths-based approaches in therapy and education, particularly for gifted and twice-exceptional individuals. Dr. Zakreski highlights the challenges faced in traditional settings and the need for equity in support. He advocates for viewing diagnosis as a resource tool and stresses the significance of community support in fostering personal growth and fulfillment.

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.

Brandon Gernux, an elementary school counselor and the 2024 Orange County Elementary School Counselor of the Year, dives into the evolving role of school counselors in supporting neurodivergent learners. He discusses the detrimental effects of masking on students' mental health and the vital need for self-advocacy skills. Highlighting the importance of including neurodiversity education in curriculums, Brandon showcases how leveraging students' unique strengths can lead to more inclusive and supportive school environments. He advocates for a neurodiversity-affirming framework as a crucial social justice issue.

Jaime A. Heidel, an author committed to bridging understanding between autistic and non-autistic individuals, discusses critical communication barriers. She emphasizes the importance of listening to autistic voices and validating their experiences to prevent trauma. The conversation highlights strategies for clearer communication, the challenges of emotional regulation during meltdowns, and the impact of societal expectations on neurodivergent individuals. Heidel shares insights on fostering empathy and understanding to enhance connections across diverse communities.