When parenting a neurodivergent child or young adult, traditional approaches don't always fit. Balancing the unique needs with the world's expectations can feel isolating and overwhelming.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, speak with Lisa Dube, LCSW and founder of Merrimack River Wellness, about the nuances of parenting, supporting, and understanding neurodivergent children, particularly those exploring their gender identity.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand how to recognize and support the fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses in neurodivergent children, helping you to interpret their behaviors through a more informed and empathetic lens. Gain insights into the intersection of gender identity and neurodivergence, encouraging a curious and non-judgmental approach to parenting that embraces and respects your child's identity exploration. Discover practical advice on avoiding the "failure to launch" stereotype and fostering an environment of interdependence through "scaffolding,” particularly useful for parents of neurodivergent young adults. Reflect on how to bring these strategies into your family dynamics to strengthen the bond with your child. Consider how your parenting approach can evolve to actively enrich the journey of raising a neurodivergent child.About Lisa DubeLisa is a neurodivergent LCSW who worked for the U.S. District Court for over 20 years as a treatment specialist before establishing a private practice focused on the needs of families and individuals navigating gender identity exploration and transition. Lisa has a special interest in supporting parents in developing new narratives and ways of connecting with their young adult autistic children who may be challenged with the transition to adulthood. Website: merrimackriverwellness.com Instagram: @merrimackriverwellness ——————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube—————————————————————————————————— A Thanks to Our Sponsors: Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe, Freed, & The Receptionist for iPad ✨ Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe:I want to thank Madam Clutterbuckets for sponsoring this episode.This family-owned business has created a store that not only celebrates the value of neurodiversity but also employs neurodivergent workers. They sell disability advocacy merchandise, work from neurodivergent artists, and products from companies that employ neurodivergent workers. They also have curated vintage oddities, fidgets, and outrageous merch that makes you laugh out loud. They are located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, or you can check them out at madamclutterbuckets.com, and use code GIMME10 for 10% off $25 purchases or more.✨ Freed:I want to thank Freed for sponsoring this episode.Being a clinician in today's medical or mental healthcare field can be overstimulating. It can be so hard to focus on clients while taking adequate notes. Freed.AI listens, transcribes, and writes medical documentation for you, written in your style and ready the moment the visit is over—no more overstimulation or letting things fall through the cracks. Freed is HIPAA compliant, secure, and takes less than 30 seconds to learn. More importantly, Freed supports your executive function skills, so you can get back to doing what you love—helping your clients.Go to getfreed.ai and use code DCPOD for your first month free.✨ The Receptionist for iPad:I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. Mentioned in this episode:Hurricane Relief for WNC communitiesThis money will go to nonprofits who are boots on the ground. It will go to struggling individuals who do not have enough money for gas to get out, or who do not have enough money to provide their basic needs right now. Donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for WNC communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Visit: atppod.com/wnc

Livia Sara, an autism advocate in eating disorder recovery, discusses unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, the power of autonomy in recovery, and personal struggles with eating disorders and addiction. The podcast explores misdiagnoses, societal perceptions of food, and the quest for identity amidst struggles with anorexia and depression.

Nutritional therapist Jes Hagen discusses PMDD, hormonal imbalances impacting mental health like ADHD and bipolar disorder. They explore integrative approaches, dietary choices, and lifestyle changes for better management. The conversation highlights the struggles of living with PMDD, the link between estrogen, dopamine receptors, and ADHD, and the challenges of traditional medical treatments.

AuDHD mental health professionals, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, discuss special interests and sensory experiences in autism. They highlight the role of passions in forming connections and the diverse sensory systems that influence daily life. The conversation explores creating inclusive environments, understanding sensory challenges, and the interconnection of autism and ADHD criteria.

Two AuDHD mental health professionals, Patrick Casale and Dr. Neff, discuss the importance and challenges of routines in the lives of Autistic individuals. They cover topics such as all-or-nothing thinking, struggles with flexibility, personal stories of routine disruptions, and the complexities of routine, control, and flexibility in relation to autism and gender differences.

Two AuDHD mental health professionals, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, discuss the complexities of friendship management for Autistic individuals, exploring the connection between relationships and common Autistic traits. They delve into social communication challenges, childhood friendships, friendship dynamics, repetitive behaviors, and the satisfaction of organizing collections.

Two AuDHD mental health professionals, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Neff, dive into the nuances of autism, exploring social interactions, communication forms, and the impact of autistic culture. They discuss the challenges of social motivation, the unique ways care can be expressed for Autistic people, and how language choices can influence self-perception. The episode offers insights into the transforming neurodiversity landscape and encourages a shift away from deficit-focused narratives.

Two AuDHD mental health professionals, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Ann Neff, discuss the nuances of burnout, seasonal depression, and strategic withdrawal. They explore how burnout can be related to other health conditions, the importance of honoring limitations, and tailored strategies for addressing burnout in neurodivergent individuals. The conversation sheds light on internalized ableism, grief, and the significance of communication in protecting one's energy.

Navigating neurodiversity in the workplace is crucial to creating inclusive spaces. Learn how to reframe workplace cultures to embrace neurodivergent strengths. Explore challenges faced by adults with later-in-life neurodivergent discovery. Implement neurodivergent-friendly practices for open communication and growth in the workplace.

Explore the intersection of autism and creativity with guest Bret Malley, focusing on advocacy and the power of art. Learn about the importance of creating designated creative spaces. Discover the unexpected creative synergies that emerged during the pandemic.