Neurodiversity Podcast

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.

On episode 238, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Lindsay Kapek and Katie Tabari about the challenges neurodivergent students face in learning math. The conversation explores strategies for creating inclusive math classrooms that foster confidence and support for all students, regardless of their neurodivergence, and they talk about the importance of understanding individual learning styles. They also discuss using low floor, high ceiling tasks and three-act tasks to engage students and promote problem-solving skills. If you're a teacher, or if you have kids in school, this is an episode you can't miss. Takeaways Neurodivergent students face barriers in math education, but their unique traits can be leveraged as assets. Creating a supportive and inclusive math classroom starts with building a connection with students. Implementing strategies like low floor, high ceiling tasks and three-act tasks can engage students and promote problem-solving skills. Language and mindset play a crucial role in fostering confidence and growth in math. Understanding students' learning styles and providing individualized support is essential for their success. Register here for our free annual fall event we've created specifically for educators who are passionate about creating neurodiversity-affirming learning environments for students. The event will be held on Monday, September 23, and you can sign up to join Emily and a live panel of experts, who will be discussing ways to best support students of all neurotypes. Lindsay Kapek and Katie Tabari are experienced K-8 math educators with a passion for making math accessible to all students. They are accomplished leaders in education, leading school-wide professional development efforts, consulting with schools and school leaders regarding the implementation of skill-based instruction, and speaking nationwide at conferences including NWAIS as well as NCTM. Katie has extensive experience working with K-5 students, nearly all of whom were neurodivergent learners. She is also a mom to three kids, one of whom is neurodivergent. She is passionate about ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and included in the math classroom. Lindsay has extensive experience working with K-8 students who have been diagnosed with ADHD. Lindsay herself has ADHD and is a huge advocate for celebrating the incredible gifts that students with ADHD bring to the math classroom. BACKGROUND READING Prep Set Grow Tools referenced during the interview Facebook Instagram Blog Pinterest

On episode 237, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Tracy Turner-Bumberry, an expert in play therapy, and a former school counselor, to discuss the concept of double empathy, the importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent children, and the need for empathy and acceptance in therapy. They also explore the evolution of social skills, and the impact of societal norms on neurodivergent individuals. Takeaways Understanding the concept of double empathy and its impact on communication between neurodivergent and non-neurodivergent individuals. The importance of empathy, acceptance, and individualized support for neurodivergent children and their families. Challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in navigating societal norms and expectations, and the need for advocacy and allyship. The evolution of social skills understanding and the impact of societal norms on neurodivergent individuals. Register here for our free annual fall event we've created specifically for educators who are passionate about creating neurodiversity-affirming learning environments for students. The event will be held on Monday, September 23, and you can sign up to join Emily and a live panel of experts, who will be discussing ways to best support students of all neurotypes. Tracy Turner-Bumberry is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor at her private practice, Seva Counseling LLC, in Milledgeville Georgia. Prior to private practice, Tracy was an elementary school counselor, and worked as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor in a children's psychiatric hospital. In addition to private practice, Tracy is a national speaker and author of several books relating to play therapy, and recently completed her first children's book, 'Twig Needs Time'. In addition to traditional therapy, Tracy is a Certified Animal Assisted Play Therapist and a Dialectical Behavior Therapy practitioner, and is knowledgeable in the IEP/504 process. BACKGROUND READING Tracy's website Facebook Twig Needs Time Tracy's books

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.