AuDHD Flourishing

Joe Sosta, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and late-realized AuDHDer, dives deep into therapeutic practices tailored for neurodivergent adults. He discusses the importance of personal connections in therapy and the nuances of managing emotions rather than eliminating them. Sosta also highlights the risks of using AI like ChatGPT for mental health support, emphasizing the need for human therapists. His insights on evolving perceptions of ADHD and autism underscore the significance of community support in fostering healing.

Reposting popular episodes June 2025. Back atcha in July with some spicy takes!Original show notes:Pasha Marlowe speaks brilliantly about how to navigate trauma, triggers, and sensory needs in relationships as an AuDHD person.Making it concrete, we both talk about a recent meltdown with our respective partners, and how we navigated those during and after.This is a deeply un-shaming episode—we still struggle with relational trauma despite all the "work" we've done. It's okay to have a lot of needs in relationships. And we talk about how hard it can be to figure out what those are and communicate them effectively.If your neurodivergent relationship needs extra support, Pasha is one of the rare practitioners who's ND, trained in family therapy, and works with couples!Resources mentioned:Pasha's websiteNeuroqueering podcast and Mattia's guest episode@neuroqueercoach on TikTok@neuroqueercoach on InstagramNeuroqueer Heresies bookFull Transcript hereAuDHD Flourishing Newsletter signup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring the complexities of meltdowns and shutdowns, the conversation dives into how these responses serve as a necessary release for overwhelmed autistic minds. Insights on recognizing triggers and planning for safer experiences are shared, along with a three-stage meltdown model. The importance of early detection and communication with loved ones is highlighted. Practical tips for reducing meltdowns, especially in workplace settings, and reframing these occurrences as acts of self-care offer a refreshing perspective on navigating these challenging experiences.

Explore the essential needs of individuals with ADHD and autism, highlighting the importance of engaging with personal interests for emotional regulation. Dive into the challenges of navigating executive function and the significance of autonomy and true rest. Discover the delicate balance of sensory stimulation and how it impacts communication and social comfort. Gain insights on processing needs and the journey of unmasking, emphasizing the variability of sensory requirements in neurodiversity. These discussions reveal the importance of personalized support for flourishing.

Discover the intriguing intersection of autism and ADHD, and how they create a unique neurotype experience. Hear about the challenges of following conventional advice that often feels irrelevant. Explore the inner conflicts many face as their body and brain demand contradictory needs. Delve into the fascinating characteristics of the autistic brain, like reduced neural pruning and sensory processing quirks. Finally, learn about self-defined success and how to flourish in your own way while advocating for neurodiversity.

Rest is not wasted time; it's essential for productivity, especially for those with ADHD and autism. The discussion challenges societal norms about productivity and highlights the importance of mental recovery. The podcast also dives into the complexities of domestic violence, offering insights on recognizing red flags and promoting self-love. It addresses the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the importance of self-affirmation in navigating life's difficulties.

Juggling multiple interests can be overwhelming, especially when time is limited. The discussion explores the challenges and rewards of pursuing various passions, encouraging listeners to embrace interdisciplinary journeys. Tips for setting personal goals are shared, highlighting the importance of making tough choices to foster creative mastery. It's a reflective journey that empowers individuals to navigate their unique paths in the creative process.

Discover the power of making small adjustments to your habits for a more balanced life. Learn how gentle changes, rather than drastic overhauls, can ease anxiety and support well-being, especially for individuals with ADHD or autism. The approach emphasizes self-compassion and the significance of nurturing your nervous system while embarking on personal growth. It's a refreshing take on habit formation that invites listeners to embrace simplicity over perfection.

Explore the journey of meeting intensity needs in healthy ways, especially for those with ADHD and autism. Dive into the balance between creativity and introspection while recognizing the challenges of intense emotional needs and PTSD. Discover the importance of accepting personal decision-making processes without judgment. The discussion encourages striking a harmony between productivity and self-care, all while teasing new resources designed to support individual growth.

Vanessa Gorelkin, an Occupational Therapist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals, shares insightful strategies for managing daily life. She introduces the concept of a crisis kit, filled with unique items like instant ice packs and extreme sour candies, designed to aid in moments of distress. The discussion also touches on the value of mental rehearsal for movement and pain management, and the necessity of building supportive connections. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth tailored to individual challenges.