In this episode of the Neurodiversity Podcast, Emily Kircher-Morris answers questions submitted by members of the Neurodiversity Podcast Advocacy and Support Group on Facebook. The questions cover a range of topics including co-occurrence between ADHD and dyslexia, word disability, gifted kids who are anxious, 504 denial in schools, learning disabilities + high cognition, and many more of your questions. The episode provides insights, strategies, and resources for parents and individuals navigating neurodiversity.

To submit questions for our next AMA, join the Neurodiversity Podcast Advocacy & Support Group on Facebook!

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 because of stereotypes and biases.

Takeaways

• Diagnosis can significantly impact self-understanding and acceptance.

• Misdiagnosis is common, especially among women and genderqueer individuals.

• Understanding one's neurodivergent identity can aid in the healing process.

• The medical community often overlooks non-stereotypical presentations of neurodivergence.

• Self-criticism can stem from societal pressures and internalized shame.

• Community and connection are vital for neurodivergent individuals.

• Many undiagnosed autistic individuals are misdiagnosed with personality disorders.

• There is a significant lack of training for clinicians on autism and ADHD.

• Breaking down stigma around neurodivergence requires ongoing effort and advocacy.

• Autistic burnout includes increased sensory sensitivities and emotional fatigue.

• Living in a typical societal structure can lead to burnout for autistic individuals.

• Challenging myths about autism is essential for societal change.

Don’t forget to join the Neurodiversity Podcast Advocacy & Support Group to keep the conversation going!

Dr. Megan Anna Neff (she/they) is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and advocate based in Portland, Oregon. Her work focuses on neurodiversity, spirituality, and holistic mental health. She has published articles and a book exploring diverse topics such as place-attachment, relational psychotherapy, and the African diaspora.

Following her own and her child's autism diagnoses, Dr. Neff became a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals. She challenges stereotypes and misconceptions through her writing, speaking engagements, and online presence, including her Instagram platform where she shares educational content and resources.

Dr. Neff is dedicated to bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications in the mental health field. She promotes an authentic and holistic approach to mental health that embraces the whole person and acknowledges the impact of systemic issues on individual well-being.

BACKGROUND READING

Dr. Neff’s Instagram

Neurodivergent Insights website

LinkedIn

Facebook

Divergent Conversations podcast

The Neurodiversity Podcast is available on Facebook and Instagram, and you can also join our private Facebook group.

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 a shift towards understanding subjective experience rather than relying solely on test scores.

• Therapists are adapting by relying less on formal tests and more on interview skills and understanding inner subjective experiences.

• Empowering therapists to diagnose autism is important for identifying and supporting individuals who may have been missed in the past.

• Masking and camouflaging are complex behaviors that can have both benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to find a balance that respects individual needs and promotes equity. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is not simply about avoiding demands, but rather an overriding biological drive for autonomy.

• Misdiagnosis and labeling are common for PDAers, leading to potential negative consequences, especially for minority boys.

• Understanding the core features of PDA, such as difficulty coping with demands, a wide variety of coping mechanisms, and challenges with social hierarchy, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and support.

For details about our courses for teaching twice-exceptional learners, click here.

Dr. Donna Henderson has been a clinical neuropsychologist for over 30 years. She is passionate about identifying and supporting autistic individuals, particularly those who camouflage, and she is co-author (with Drs. Sarah Wayland and Jamell White) of two books: Is This Autism? A Guide For Clinicians and Everyone Else and Is This Autism? A Companion Guide For Diagnosing. Dr. Henderson provides neuropsychological evaluations and consultations for children, adolescents, and adults who would like to understand themselves better. She is a sought-after lecturer on the less obvious presentations of autism, autistic girls and women, PDA, and on parenting children with complex profiles. She also provides case consultations and neurodiversity-affirmative training for other healthcare professionals.

BACKGROUND READING

Donna’s website

Is This Autism?