Beyond the Stereotypes of Autism and Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity Podcast
On episode 247, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Dr. Megan Anna Neff to explore the complexities of neurodiversity, and the societal stereotypes that affect their lives. They talk about the challenges of diagnosis, the nuances of misdiagnosis, particularly the overlap between conditions like autism and borderline personality disorder, and the significance of self-awareness and acceptance in the journey of neurodivergent individuals. They discuss the phenomenon of autistic burnout, its implications, the challenges in clinical training regarding autism and ADHD, and inherent inequities that exist...
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Challenging What We Know About Autism and PDA
Neurodiversity Podcast
Dr. Donna Henderson joins Emily Kircher-Morris to talk about the changes in the assessment process for autism, the importance of empowering therapists to diagnose autism, and the need for equity in masking. Their conversation also explores the double empathy problem and the challenges of balancing unmasking with the needs of neurodiverse individuals in educational settings. They also discuss the PDA profile and its place within the autism spectrum. That’s all waiting for you on episode 246. This is a reprise of an earlier chat. Takeaways The assessment process for autism is evolving, with...
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What Neurodivergent People Need to Know About Joining the Military
Neurodiversity Podcast
On episode 245, Emily talks with Dr. Brandi Walker, a retired Army clinical psychologist, about her experience as a psychologist in the military and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. They talk about her journey of transitioning from a fuel handler to a psychologist, and when and how she developed an interest in ADHD. There are policies and limitations for recruits with ADHD or autism, and they talk about the implications, along with the waiver process that’s involved. Dr. Walker talks about the experiences of neurodivergent military members, and they have solid advice for...
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You Can’t Cut Corners on Executive Function Skills
Neurodiversity Podcast
On this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris and Carrie Bonnett discuss the intricacies of executive functioning, its significance in academic and life success, and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. They explore strategies for improving executive functioning skills, the importance of emotional regulation, and the need for educators to understand and support students struggling with these skills. Emily and Carrie also talk about the importance of motivation, making invisible tasks visible, and the journey of learning and adapting strategies to enhance executive functioning. That’s...
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Am I the Impostor Among Us?
Neurodiversity Podcast
There’s a nagging feeling most of us experience from time to time, that tells us maybe we’ve fooled everyone. We shouldn’t have been placed in a certain position, or we’re not qualified to take on a project. On episode 243 we revisit a talk with Lindsay Lee, the author of a study about impostorism. Why do we experience it? What can we do to tamp it down? Check out the webinar we hosted earlier this week! You’ll find great information that will help make your classroom or school a place where all students can thrive. If you like the webinar, we’d love to have you as a member...
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Strengths-based Supports in the Neurodiversity Ecosystem
Neurodiversity Podcast
On episode 242, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Dr. Matt Zakreski about the importance of neurodiversity-affirming practices in therapy, and how intersection of giftedness and neurodiversity emphasizes the importance of neurodiversity-affirming practices in therapy, the significance of understanding twice exceptionality, and the role of diagnosis in accessing resources. Dr. Zakreski advocates for equity in supporting neurodivergent individuals and encourages listeners to pursue their passions and find supportive communities. Takeaways Giftedness can be met with resistance in traditional...
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Advocating for Neurodivergent Kids at School
Neurodiversity Podcast
School is back in session in many parts of the world, which is the time when struggles often begin to surface. On episode 241, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Amanda Morin about the complexities of advocating for neurodivergent children, including utilizing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and the services they require. They explore the qualification process for IEPs, the importance of understanding behavior as communication, and the distinction between medical and educational diagnoses. The conversation emphasizes the need for advocacy, and the importance of tailored support for each...
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A Guide to School Counseling In a Neurodiverse World
Neurodiversity Podcast
In episode 240, Emily Kircher-Morris chats with Brandon Gernux, an elementary school counselor from Santa Ana, California, and the 2024 Orange County Elementary School Counselor of the Year. Emily and Brandon dive into the importance of neurodiversity-affirming support in schools, sharing insights on how schools are slowly evolving to meet the needs of neurodivergent learners. They discuss the critical role school counselors play, particularly in addressing the challenges of camouflaging and masking, which can significantly impact students' social development and personal satisfaction. They...
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Autistic Voices: Bridging the Communication Gap
Neurodiversity Podcast
Miscommunication between autistic and non-autistic individuals can lead to painful misunderstandings and strained relationships. In this episode, we talk to Jaime A. Heidel, author of 'What Did I Do Wrong? An Accessible Guide to Preventing Traumatic Misunderstandings Between You and Your Autistic Loved One.' Emily and Jaime discuss the common communication barriers between autistic and non-autistic people, the importance of listening to autistic voices, and the need for effective communication to prevent trauma. They talk about the need for specificity in communication, and the impact of...
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Improving Math Education for Neurodivergent Learners
Neurodiversity Podcast
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...
info_outlineYou often hear people reference their own OCD, but there’s far more to it than just the desire to be orderly or neat. Today, Emily Kircher-Morris explores the topic of obsessive compulsive thinking patterns, their impact on individuals, and the importance of discussing mental health with children. Jessica Whipple, author of 'I Think I Think a Lot,' shares her personal experiences with OCD and the coping strategies she has developed. The conversation also highlights the significance of representation in children's literature and the role of books in teaching coping skills. If you’re curious about OCD, this episode will help.
Takeaways
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Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors, which can manifest in various ways such as contamination fears, taboo thoughts, and perfectionism.
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Children's literature plays a crucial role in representing diverse experiences, teaching coping skills, and reducing stigma around mental health and neurodivergence.
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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) can be an effective treatment for OCD, helping individuals manage their thoughts and behaviors.
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It is important to have open conversations with children about mental health, providing them with the tools to understand and cope with their emotions and experiences.
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Jessica Whipple is an acclaimed published author who writes for adults and children. Her book, I Think I Think a Lot, was inspired by her own OCD and was published by Free Spirit Publishing, and illustrated by Josée Bisaillon. Her poetry for adults, which often includes themes of mental health and parenting, has been published both online and in print. Her poem Broken Strings was nominated for a 2023 Pushcart Prize. To read some of her work, click on her link (below) or find her children's picture books anywhere books are sold.
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