Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Release Date: 01/22/2024
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Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Ilona Phillips Founder of Lotus Consulting, Psychotherapist specializing in eating disorders Guest Bio: Ilona Phillips is the founder of a psychotherapy group practice specializing in treating eating disorders. With over two decades of experience, she evolved from working solo to leading a team of 30 clinicians. Her work emphasizes helping individuals navigate recovery from eating and anxiety disorders while equipping parents and guardians with the tools and...
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Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be available on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Melody Murray Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist, Author Melody has a unique background that spans roles as a hospital ER mental health evaluator, reality TV producer, and therapist. With experience in childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and family dynamics, Melody is dedicated to making mental health accessible through public forums and online courses. She’s known for her holistic approach, combining professional insight with...
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Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Jimmy Clare Guest Title: Founder of Crazy Fitness Guy, Motivational Speaker, Autism Advocate, Author Introduction: In this episode, Dana Jonson sits down with Jimmy Clare, the resilient and inspiring founder of Crazy Fitness Guy. Jimmy, a motivational speaker, autism advocate, and host of the Crazy Fitness Guy Healthy Living Podcast, shares his journey of overcoming adversity, including bullying, multiple surgeries, and living with spinal stenosis. Dana and Jimmy explore how he...
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Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Rebecca Jackson Chief Programs Officer, Brain Balance, Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist, and Doctor of Chiropractic. Guest Bio: Dr. Rebecca Jackson is a brain health expert and the Chief Programs Officer at Brain Balance. She is also a Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist and a Doctor of Chiropractic with over 15 years of dedicated research and hands-on application in cognitive development. She has passionately worked to improve the well-being of children and...
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Special Ed on Special Ed
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Special Ed on Special Ed
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info_outlineShortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website, https://SpecialEd.fm.
Episode Title:
Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Guest: Dr. Matt Zakreski
Host: Dana Jonson
This episode offers a deep dive into understanding and supporting neurodivergent children. Dr. Matt's expertise and empathetic approach make this a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in neurodiversity.
Introduction:
Dana Jonson introduces Dr. Matt Zakreski, a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community.
Dr. Matt's unique approach combines personal experiences with professional expertise in psychology.
Memorable Quotes:
"Labels are powerful. It matters that you're a zebra, not a weird horse."
~ Dr. Matt on the importance of understanding and embracing neurodiversity.
"If I ever got the chance to do this work, I wanted to work with kids like me."
~ Dr. Matt discusses his motivation to help neurodivergent children.”
"It's like everybody else got the script, but you didn't."
~ Dr. Matt on the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in social settings.
"Kids survive, but not all of them do."
~ Dr. Matt highlights the urgent need for appropriate support for neurodivergent children.
Discussion Highlights:
Performance Cliff: Discussing the challenges gifted children face when academic demands exceed their capabilities.
Masking in Neurodiversity: Exploring the concept of neurodivergent individuals hiding their true selves.
Educational Strategies: Emphasizing the need for individualized education to cater to neurodivergent students.
Dr. Matt's Mission:
Co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective, which offers therapy, IQ testing, coaching, and consulting specifically for the neurodivergent community.
Advocates for practical strategies to aid in the development and learning of neurodivergent children.
Call to Action:
Encouraging listeners to learn more about The Neurodiversity Collective and its services by visiting their website: https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/
FLASHBACK:
Check out a blast from the past: How Exceptional Are You?
In this episode I speak with Cheryl Viirand, super-mom and co-founder of Cajal Academy, a private special education school in CT designed for 2e children. We discuss the unique challenges and gifts of twice-exceptional (2e) children, exploring strategies for educating them in a way that addresses both their high intellectual capabilities and their individual learning needs. We also delve into the role of neuroplasticity in developing programs tailored to 2e children, highlighting the importance of creating an educational environment that nurtures their gifts while supporting their challenges.