Unapologetically Sensitive

AFAB Autism Assessment: Common Questions Answered Dr. Jessica Myszak, who provides autism assessments for late-diagnosed, high masking women answers the following questions: How does autism present differently in women? Is self-diagnosis valid? Why haven’t the lived experiences of women been included in the diagnostic criteria? What might social differences, repetitive and stimming behaviors look like in someone who is AFAB? We explore thoughts about HSP vs. autism? What is Pathological Demand Avoidance PDA (also known as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy)? GUEST Dr. Jessica Myszak, Licensed Psychologist HIGHLIGHTS Questions asked in this episode ·         Why are so many assigned female at birth AFAB being diagnosed with autism? ·         Is it a fad? People say you watch Tik Tok and think you’re autistic ·         Is self-diagnosis valid? ·         Why haven’t women and their experience and presentation of autism been included in the DSM criteria? ·         How does autism present differently for women? ·         Why is there a gap between the written criteria for autism and the lived experience for those who are AFAB? ·         If someone is an internalizer, what might stimming and repetitive behaviors look like? ·         What are your thoughts about HSP vs. autisim? ·         Do you think that HSP is a subtype of autism, or is there a profile of autism where deep feeling, deep thinking and empathy are present? ·         What is Pathological Demand Avoidance PDA, also knows as Persistent/Pervasive Drive for Autonomy? Common misconceptions about autism in females The assumption that autistic females are not interested in socializing, when in fact they may be on the fringes of social groups but never feel like they truly belong. – The assumption that autistics do not have feelings, nor do they have empathy is grossly false. Many autistics feel so much, that it is overwhelming The assumption that autistics don’t or can’t make eye-contact. The assumption that autistics will stim in apparent ways like rocking, hand-flapping etc. vs. thinking/processing, hair twirling, sucking cheeks in, using thumb to gently stroke hand, rubbing feet together, counting things. The assumption that autism only affects males, and as a result, assessment tools and education are often skewed towards recognizing autism in males. – Many psychologists and neurologists still rely on outdated information about autism that was learned many years ago in graduate school, which can lead to misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis in females. – There is a gap between healthcare professionals who are following updated information about autism in females and those who are not. Some characteristics of autistic females Autistic females may be on the fringes of social groups but never feel like they truly belong. – Autistic females may have a strong desire to socialize and make friends, but may struggle with social cues and maintaining friendships. – Autistic females may have a tendency to mask their symptoms in social situations, which can lead to exhaustion and burnout. – Autistic females may have a strong interest in certain topics or activities, but these interests may be more socially acceptable than stereotypical "male" interests like trains or vacuum cleaners. –Interests may include relationships, personal growth, hobbies and crafts, medical information, being an avid reader, parenting, etc. Autistic females may be more likely to experience anxiety or depression than their neurotypical peers. – Autistic females may be more likely to receive a misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis due to the fact that assessment tools and education are often skewed towards recognizing autism in males.   Examples of repetitive or stimming behavior in women ·         Deep thinking and processing.  – ·         Using weighted blankets or heavy blankets for comfort.  – ·         Hair twirling, pursing lips, having tongue against the roof of the mouth, sucking on the inside of cheeks. ·         Rubbing fingers or toes together, using fidget toys, doing cricket feet (rubbing feet together). – ·         Doing a figure eight or pattern with fingers or thumbs on clothes.  – ·         Watching shows on repeat, listening to music on repeat, rereading books. ·         It's worth noting that these are just a few examples, and that repetitive or stimming behavior can take many different forms and vary widely between individuals. Ways healthcare professionals can better recognize and diagnose autism in females: - ·         Healthcare professionals should be aware that autism looks different in autistic females than it does in males, and should not rely solely on assessment tools and education that are skewed towards recognizing autism in males. – ·         Healthcare professionals should be aware of the common misconceptions about autism in autistic females, such as the assumption that they are not interested in socializing or that autism only affects males. – ·         Healthcare professionals should be aware that autistic females may mask their symptoms in social situations, which can make it more difficult to recognize their autism. – ·         Healthcare professionals should ask questions about the individual's social experiences and interests, and should not assume that their interests are stereotypical "male" interests.  ·        Healthcare professionals should be aware that autistic females may be more likely to experience anxiety or depression than their neurotypical peers, and should take this into account when making a diagnosis. – ·         Healthcare professionals should stay up-to-date on the latest research about autism in autistic females, and should seek out training and education on how to recognize and diagnose autism in this population. PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is autistic helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with clients, therapists, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you GUEST BIO Dr. Jessica Myszak is a Chicago-area psychologist who specializes in autism assessment for both children and adults. Doing both in-person and telehealth evaluations in many states across the US, she has developed a niche in less-typical presentations of autism--autism in women, high-masking adults, and pathological demand avoidance (PDA). She also provides educational content on Tiktok about these topics. She is also the founder of the Autistic Support Network, a free private online community for members to share information and connect with other autistic adults.  LINKS  Dr. Myszak’s Links Website—https://helpandhealingcenter.com/ LInkedin—www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamyszak Tik Tok-- https://www.tiktok.com/@drjessicamyszak  Facebook—https://www.facebook.com/helpandhealingcenter/  Autistic Support Network-- https://autisticsupportnetwork.com/  Patricia’s Links HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/ Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6   Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4   To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

The podcast discusses the misconceptions about autism and the validity of self-diagnosis. It explores the challenges faced by autistic individuals in relationships and the importance of understanding neurodivergence. The speaker shares their frustrations with online course registration and website updates. It also delves into the concept of Pathological Demand Avoidance and the loss of autonomy. The chapter highlights the significance of connecting through shared interests and challenging societal expectations.

The podcast explores topics such as feeling not good enough, self-criticism, healing, and vulnerability. The hosts discuss the importance of emotional intelligence, recognizing and managing emotions, self-awareness, and cultivating empathy. They also touch on recognizing and challenging negative self-talk, embracing imperfection, and the power of vulnerability in authentic relationships. The speakers share personal anecdotes about navigating pressure, expectations, health challenges, and disappointment. They emphasize the importance of authenticity and communication in friendships.

The podcast discusses navigating difficult conversations, asserting oneself in medical situations, managing expectations and coping with disappointment, the importance of vulnerability, balancing honesty and privacy, coping with rejection, prioritizing mental health, communication in relationships, experiences with neurodivergence and high expectations, and the decision not to take medication.

Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People Dr. Lindsay Gibson, discusses her most recent book, and she offers practical strategies, reflective exercises, and tips for dealing with emotionally immature people (EIPs). We explore topics such as understanding emotional immaturity, healing from emotional immaturity, and developing emotional maturity. We discuss the importance of self-care, self-compassion, and self-improvement. Dr. Gibson offers hope, validation, and empowerment to those who want to build healthier relationships. GUEST Lindsay Gibson, PsyD. HIGHLIGHTS ·       Emotional immaturity is characterized by a lack of emotional awareness, empathy, and responsibility. ·        Emotionally immature people often struggle with communication, conflict resolution, and intimacy. ·        Emotional immaturity can be caused by childhood trauma, neglect, or abuse. ·         Emotionally immature parents can pass on their behavior to their children. ·         The book is structured as a series of 50 questions and answers. ·         The book offers strategies, reflective exercises, and tips for improving emotional maturity. ·         The book is organized into five parts: Understanding Emotional Immaturity, The Impact of Emotional Immaturity on Relationships, Healing from Emotional Immaturity, Developing Emotional Maturity, and Living with Emotional Maturity. ·         Part One explains what emotional immaturity is and how it develops. ·         Part Two explores the effects of emotional immaturity on different types of relationships, such as romantic, familial, and professional. ·         Part Three offers guidance on healing from emotional immaturity, including setting boundaries, grieving losses, and forgiving oneself and others. ·         Part Four provides practical advice for developing emotional maturity, such as practicing self-awareness, empathy, and responsibility. ·         Part Five discusses the benefits of living with emotional maturity, such as better relationships, self-esteem, and resilience. ·         The book emphasizes the importance of self-care, self-compassion, and self-improvement in overcoming emotional immaturity. ·         The book encourages readers to seek therapy, support groups, and other resources for healing and growth. ·         The book acknowledges that emotional maturity is a lifelong journey and that setbacks and challenges are normal. ·         The book is written in a conversational and accessible style, with anecdotes, examples, and humor. ·         The book is aimed at adult children of emotionally immature parents, but it can be helpful for anyone struggling with emotional immaturity. ·         The book offers hope, validation, and empowerment to readers who want to break the cycle of emotional immaturity and build healthier relationships. GUEST BIO Lindsay Gibson, PsyD. has been a licensed clinical psychologist for over thirty years and specializes in individual adult psychotherapy and coaching with adult children of emotionally immature parents. She is the author of five books. Her book Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents remains a #1 Amazon Best Seller in parent-adult child relationships, with a five star rating and over 19,000 reviews, over 800,000 copies sold, and translated in 34 foreign countries. She has served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor for the Virginia Consortium Program for Clinical Psychology, leading doctoral student workshops and independent study classes. Her latest book, Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People, was released in July 2023. Her website address is www.lindsaygibsonpsyd.com. Dr. Gibson lives and works in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is neurodivergent helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS Dr, Gibson’s links Website— http://lindsaygibsonpsyd.com Patricia’s Links HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/ Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok-- https://www.tiktok.com/@hsppodcast e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com 

Empowerment in Vulnerability: Becoming the Heroine of Your Story This episode includes wanting people to intuit what you want without having to ask; struggling with having to ask for what you want; not being chosen, and how to turn this around; identifying who your people are; assessing what others have to offer in relationships instead of assuming that you’re the one with the deficits. We also talk about how to have compassion for where you’re at, and the gifts of doing healing work. CO-HOST Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC HIGHLIGHTS Reflect on the mantra Who do I choose and who chooses me? and use it to empower yourself in relationships and activities. Embrace the idea that it's okay if not everyone likes you or understands you fully, and focus on being true to yourself. Practice setting boundaries and making choices that align with your values, even if they don't fit your self-concept or may cause conflict. Reflect on the phrase I am enough and embrace the idea that you don't need external validation to feel worthy. The concept of "vibrational match" is introduced, emphasizing that not everyone will resonate with each other. Setting boundaries is essential, even if it doesn't align with one's self-concept or requires distance from loved ones. It's empowering to accept that not everyone will like or understand you, and that's okay. The importance of having self-compassion and acknowledging that being human means making mistakes. The value of exploring one's emotional triggers and understanding the reasons behind them. Different people have different ways of approaching tasks and ideas, which can lead to misunderstandings. The realization that some activities may be enjoyable, but the people involved may not be a perfect fit. Embracing the truth about oneself and being comfortable with the role one plays in others' narratives. The journey of finding and embracing one's authentic self while acknowledging imperfections. The power of learning to say "no" and assert boundaries without compromising one's self-worth. Understanding that conflicts and bumps in relationships are natural and part of personal growth. Recognizing the need for distance and safety in certain relationships to protect one's emotional well-being. PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is neurodivergent helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you CO-HOST BIO Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC has been a psychotherapist for 20 years. She specializes in helping Highly Sensitive People thrive in love, work, and parenting Highly Sensitive Children. Jen is passionate about using mindfulness and compassion-based approaches to ameliorate human suffering.   LINKS   Jen’s Links   Email: Jen@heartfulnessconsulting.com   Jen’s website: https://heartfulnessconsulting.com/   Patricia’s Links   HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/   Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6   Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4   To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

The podcast discusses expressing feelings when systems fail and frustrate us, including frustrations with doctors and the DMV. They explore the importance of advocating for personal needs, setting boundaries in medical settings, and seeking support when overwhelmed. The speakers reflect on the impact of industries on perceptions and the struggle of setting boundaries. They emphasize the empowerment that comes from being true to oneself.

Navigating Neurodiversity: The Struggle to Figure out the Rules We discuss the importance of emotional intelligence, & allowing oneself to feel the full range of emotions. We talk about the struggle to figure out what the unspoken expectations are. We talk about how neurodivergent brains process information compared to neurotypical brains, as well as communication styles that may be more effective. If you’re neurodivergent (HSP, autistic, ADHD etc.), being around others who also have high emotional intelligence may create more intimacy and understanding in your life.  CO-HOST Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC HIGHLIGHTS ·         1.Learn about the importance of feeling the full range of human emotion. ·         2. Discover that it can be safe and healthy to express your feelings. ·         4. Realize the importance of not toning down emotions. ·         5. Explore why cognitive behavioral therapy may not be helpful if you are neurodivergent. ·         8. Understand how the autistic and neurodivergent brain works from a bottom-up approach. ·         9. Discover that starting with details and then going to the bigger picture is often how neurodivergent folks tend to process. ·         10. Learn that allistics (non-autistics) tend to start with the broad and then go down to the details. ·         11. Discover the importance of learning different ways of communicating and processing information. ·         13. Learn why staying connected with friends is especially important during challenging times. ·         14. Discover how Jen and Patricia use various communication tools to stay connected. ·         16. Learn how sharing experiences and insights with friends can be helpful. ·         17. Discover the importance of being open and honest with friends. ·         18. Understand how being vulnerable with friends can lead to deeper connections. ·         19. Learn about the importance of active listening in communication. ·         20. Discover how practicing emotional intelligence can lead to better relationships and overall well-being. PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is neurodivergent helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you CO-HOST BIO Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC has been a psychotherapist for 20 years. She specializes in helping Highly Sensitive People thrive in love, work, and parenting Highly Sensitive Children. Jen is passionate about using mindfulness and compassion-based approaches to ameliorate human suffering. LINKS Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller free YouTube audiobook: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KPLXRvI_vQ  Jen’s Links Email: Jen@heartfulnessconsulting.com Jen’s website: https://heartfulnessconsulting.com/ Patricia’s Links HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/ Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

I Needed to Become the Person I Needed Most  Kelly took the HSP Course 3 years ago. When life threw her a curveball 18 months ago, she had no idea the profound impact the Course would have on her. Kelly embraced her emotions without judgement, and she began to heal and grow. She allowed people to be there for her. She shares the mantras she used, and she talks about the beauty she experienced while being present and in discomfort. Kelly is thriving in spite of challenges.  GUEST Kelly Vance  HIGHLIGHTS ·         The HSP Online Course can have a profound impact on personal growth and healing. ·         Embracing emotions without judgment is a key aspect of the course and leads to personal growth. ·         Distress tolerance is a powerful tool taught in the course, helping individuals navigate difficult situations. ·         Authenticity and acceptance are essential for living as a Highly Sensitive Person. ·         Open communication and vulnerability play a significant role in building meaningful relationships. ·         Setting boundaries and clarifying personal needs is necessary for maintaining healthy relationships. ·         The course provides support for the grieving process, and creating space for difficult emotions. ·         Being in community with other highly sensitive people allows for connection and validation. ·         Distress tolerance techniques are taught in the course to cope with challenging emotions and situations. ·         Surrendering in relationships and allowing vulnerability with safe individuals is explored. ·         Prioritizing self-care, self-compassion, and embracing discomfort are important for highly sensitive people.   GUEST BIO Kelly Vance is an abstract artist, cat foster, animal shelter volunteer and highly sensitive ambivert.  She loves creative endeavors, irreverent shenanigans, enjoying delicious food with dear friends and is always working on ways to balance sensation-seeking with the need to rest.  She lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with her husband.  PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is neurodivergent helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/ Online HSP Course Materials (no group included) https://patriciayounglcsw.com/product-category/hsp-classes/ Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6  Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4  To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

Regulating your Nervous System: Setting Boundaries and Self-Care while Travelling  On a Saturday, I decided to fly to Philadelphia the next day. This episode addresses travelling considerations when you’re neurodivergent. I had to set some boundaries and I also had to implement a lot of self-care. We talk about strategies for travelling, and how to anticipate, prepare, execute, and communicate your needs. We talk about non-violent communication, frequent check-ins, how to adjust if you need structure, and ways to regulate your nervous system. CO-HOST Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC  HIGHLIGHTS ·         Decipher the significance of fostering emotional safety and its effect on personal growth and wellness. ·         Discern the importance of self-care and setting boundaries, specially tailored for neurodivergent individuals. ·         Grasp the immense value of open communication and conflict resolution in cultivating deeper relationships. ·         Demystify the methods used in maintaining a regulated nervous system while navigating life's many challenges. ·         Understand the strength in being vulnerable and authentic in communication - an often underexplored path to fulfilling relationships. ·         Check out nonviolent communication resources: Learn more about nonviolent communication and how it can improve your relationships and create emotional safety.  ·         Plan a spontaneous trip: Embrace spontaneity and plan a surprise trip with a loved one or a group of friends. Step out of your comfort zone and create new memories in a different location. ·         Create a structured and consistent environment: If you feel the need for more structure and predictability in your life, consider implementing routines and schedules that provide a sense of stability. This can help reduce anxiety and create a safe and familiar environment. ·         Practice frequent check-ins: Cultivate a habit of checking in with yourself and others regularly. Ask yourself and your loved ones what they need and how you can support them. This can enhance communication, deepen connections, and create a sense of emotional safety. ·         Prioritize self-care: Make self-care a priority in your life. Take breaks when you need them, set boundaries, and engage in activities that recharge and rejuvenate you. Remember that taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being. ·         Use earplugs for sensory regulation ·         The importance of fostering emotional safety and its impact on personal growth and wellness is highlighted.   ·         Setting boundaries and practicing self-care are emphasized as essential for neurodivergent individuals.   ·         Open communication and conflict resolution are recognized as vital for cultivating deeper relationships.   ·         Strategies for maintaining a regulated nervous system while navigating life's challenges are explained.   ·         The significance of vulnerability and authenticity in communication is explored as a path to fulfilling relationships.   ·         Honoring personal needs is emphasized as an act of self-love and respect that contributes to emotional well-being and improved relationships. PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is neurodivergent helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you CO-HOST BIO Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC has been a psychotherapist for 20 years. She specializes in helping Highly Sensitive People thrive in love, work, and parenting Highly Sensitive Children. Jen is passionate about using mindfulness and compassion-based approaches to ameliorate human suffering.  LINKS Jen’s Links  Email: Jen@heartfulnessconsulting.com  Jen’s website: https://heartfulnessconsulting.com/ Patricia’s Links  HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/ Online HSP Course Materials (no group included) https://patriciayounglcsw.com/product-category/hsp-classes/ Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6  Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 To write a review in itunes:  click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com