Divergent Conversations

For neurodivergent individuals, the journey toward intentional living and work-life balance comes with both unique challenges and profound opportunities for growth.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, reflect on their past 2024 year, discuss pivotal moments of personal development, and share their hopes and strategies for a more intentional future.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insights on how Patrick Casale has navigated his post-surgery recovery, focusing on balancing energy with new opportunities and the significant role of a values-based decision framework.Learn about Dr. Neff’s journey towards reduced workaholism, prioritizing family, and realigning her values, especially through her health challenges and boundary-setting measures.Discover the hosts’ reflections on their nearly two-year podcast journey, their intentional shift towards more cohesive content, and their plans for future seasonal structuring inspired by other successful podcasts.As you reflect on your own growth and challenges, consider how aligning your actions with your values can help you lead a more intentional and fulfilling life. Embrace the process of setting boundaries, seeking balance, and prioritizing your well-being for a healthier and more centered future.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube————————————————————————————————Thanks to Our Sponsors: Betwixt (available in phone app stores), Landmark College, & D.Rowe Co. (D.Rowe Tax)✨ Betwixt:Betwixt isn't your typical mental health app. It's an immersive, interactive, story-based experience that turns self-exploration into an epic adventure. Helping to relieve anxiety, reduce stress, and improve self-awareness, Betwixt combines tools from therapy, psychology, and neuroscience in a way that is playful, creative, and imaginative. It's a mental health game that you can only win by solving the mysteries of your mind. The founders believe everyone deserves to live an epic story. That's why they made it their mission to keep the core app free for anyone who can't afford it.You can download Betwixt from any app store and start your own Epic inner journey today.✨ Landmark College:Landmark College is the world's first accredited college designed exclusively for students who learn differently. Landmark, located in Putney, Vermont, offers courses in person and online, awarding associate and bachelor's degrees, and offering pre-college, gap year, and professional...

Navigating the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the impacts of our early experiences can be challenging but also lead to healthier, more fulfilling connections. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Debra Brause, Psy.D., discuss how early childhood experiences for Autistic individuals can shape their adult lives, the importance of seeing people as whole beings, and the transformative power of therapy.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Explore the meaning of whole object relations. Learn how acknowledging the complexity of both yourself and others can move beyond simplistic judgments, fostering deeper and more authentic relationships.Get insights into childhood dynamics and trauma. Gain valuable perspectives on how childhood experiences, especially those marked by misattunement, affect our adult relationships and emotional health, and how therapy helps in developing self-soothing mechanisms.Understand attachment and repetition compulsion. Delve into discussions about attachment theories and how our unconscious patterns in relationships aim to resolve past traumas, often repeating old cycles in an attempt to master unresolved issues.As you reflect on this episode, consider how these insights might inform your own relationships and self-perception. By integrating a deeper understanding of your past and recognizing the complexity in others, you can foster healthier and more fulfilling connections.More about Debra:Debra Brause, Psy.D., received her B.A from the University of Pennsylvania and her Doctorate in Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP). Her professional training includes diagnostic assessment for learning disabilities at UCLA, a postgraduate fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Wright Institute Los Angeles, clinical work in community mental health settings, and continuing participation in psychoanalytic consultation groups.Dr. Brause has served as a clinical supervisor at multiple community mental health settings around Los Angeles and provides trainings to psychoanalytic psychology interns on Neurodiversity.Prior to becoming a psychologist, Dr. Brause spent ten years in the entertainment industry, working in television production, news, and as a studio development executive.She has a blog on Psychology Today about raising a neurodivergent child. In her private practice, she is passionate about working with parents raising neurodivergent children as well as Autistic adults from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective.Website: drdebrabrause.comInstagram: @debrabrause————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube————————————————————————————————Thanks to Our Sponsors: Betwixt...

For ADHDers who feel overwhelmed by the challenges of maintaining focus and managing anxiety around a flood of to-dos and expectations, finding effective strategies can make all the difference.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Dr. Kourosh Dini, a clinical psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, musician, and creator of Waves of Focus, discuss how creative minds, including ADHDers, can harmonize play and productivity without succumbing to stress or societal pressures.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover practical strategies to navigate anxiety and enhance focus: Find out how Dr. Dini's "Waves of Focus" framework can provide actionable techniques to improve your concentration and manage anxiety, tailored specifically for neurodivergent individuals.Deep dive into the fascinating links between creativity, agency, and play: Understand how playful exploration can be a powerful tool in forming your identity and maintaining mental health.Learn about innovative methods to foster a genuine sense of agency: Gain insights into 3 simple practices that can transform your relationship with your tasks and decisions, bolstering your executive function and autonomy.As you reflect on this episode, think about how you can integrate more play into your daily routines and find your internal rhythm. Consider ways to nurture your sense of agency and make mindful choices that align with your true self.More about Dr. Kourosh Dini:As a clinical psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and musician, Kourosh has both experienced and seen the great difficulties creatives as well as those with ADHD or anxiety can have. He created the Waves of Focus, a framework that has fundamentally changed how many of his students and clients engage their work and play.Academics include Northwestern University as a part of the Integrated Science Program with a focus in the neurosciences. His medical degree and residency in adult psychiatry were obtained through the University of Illinois at Chicago.He pursued further studies in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Chicago. Kourosh also practices psychoanalysis having graduated from the Institute for Psychoanalysis, and maintains a private practice in Chicago involving therapy, meditation, and medication management.Author of Creating Flow with OmniFocus, Taking Smart Notes with DEVONthink, and Workflow Mastery.Sign up for the Weekly Wind Down newsletter for a free PDF, "Your First Step to Breaking Free from Force-Based Work” at https://wavesoffocus.com/Your-First-Step-to-Breaking-Free-from-Force-Based%20Work.Get a 2 Weeks/$20 trial subscription to the Waves of Focus  membership: https://wavesoffocus.circle.so/checkout/waves-of-focus-dollar20-trial-and-subscriptionWebsites: kouroshdini.com and kouroshdinimd.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kouroshdinimd————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️

As a neurodivergent individual, it can sometimes feel like your true self is hidden beneath layers of societal expectations.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Dr. Karissa Burnett, a depth psychologist, trauma specialist, the founder of Divergent Pathways, and a late-diagnosed Autistic ADHDer, discuss the deep inner workings of the mind, the societal challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, and the valuable insights that psychoanalytic therapy can offer. Together, they explore the intersections of depth psychology, authenticity, and the lived experiences of Autistic individuals, aiming to shed light on often misunderstood aspects of mental health.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover how making unconscious feelings and behaviors conscious can lead to significant healing and a deeper understanding of oneself.Gain insights into societal discomfort with authenticity and how autistic behaviors can challenge social norms by exposing hidden realities, framed through a canary-in-the-coal-mine metaphor.Learn about therapeutic approaches like psychoanalytic therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) that go beyond symptom management to understand the underlying reasons for behaviors, offering transformative potential for neurodivergent individuals.As you reflect on today’s episode, consider the true self that you might be keeping hidden and think about the societal norms that challenge your authenticity. Remember, making the unconscious conscious is a journey toward healing and self-discovery.NOTE: In this episode, we touch on the concept of "sacred rage," which is explored in-depth by Dr. Jennifer Mullan in her book Decolonizing Therapy.More about Dr. Karissa Burnett:Dr. Karissa Burnett (she/her) is a trailblazing depth psychologist and trauma specialist known for bridging science with soul. As the founder of Divergent Pathways and a late-diagnosed Autistic ADHDer herself, she provides transformative therapeutic assessments that empower clients to embrace their authentic selves. Featured in the American Psychological Association's “Monitor on Psychology" magazine for advancing neurodiversity-affirming care, Dr. Burnett advocates for disability justice, providing consultation to the ACLU and using her voice to promote systemic change.Website: divergentpathways.comFacebook: facebook.com/divergentpathwaysDr. Burnett provides therapeutic assessments for adults in MA, CA, and WA. Clinical Consultation is available for clinicians worldwide.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------We've edited the opening segment following feedback about impact and privilege. We appreciate our community helping us grow. This version focuses on the deeper psychodynamic insights explored in this episode. When we realized that the opening segment could cause potential harm to listeners, we wanted to minimize the negative impact that it could have. ————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️

Navigating the world as a gifted individual can be emotionally taxing and filled with both internal and external challenges that are often dismissed or minimized by oneself and others. The giftedness label is often viewed as a privilege resulting in failure to recognize and offer support for the very real struggles that can come with it.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, open up about their personal experiences and discuss the complexities of giftedness, identity, and coping mechanisms in the context of mental health.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover how giftedness and neurodivergence both intersect and differ, offering nuanced perspectives on recognizing and understanding these traits.Learn about how this giftedness series sparked deep self-reflection for the hosts, creating a space for them and listeners to explore the emotional layers of their experiences.Delve into thoughtful discussions on how societal perceptions of intelligence and privilege impact self-identity and mental health, challenging common assumptions about capability and success.As you reflect on your own experiences or the experiences of those around you, consider the ways in which you navigate your identity and emotions. Remember, it’s okay to seek support and embrace your complexities.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube————————————————————————————————Thanks to Our Sponsors: iACTcenter & The Gifted Learning Lab✨ iACTcenter:The iACTcenter is an elite global ICF-accredited coach education and training program designed to train people to become confident, skilled, professional ADHD life coaches. They prepare aspiring coaches to make a living while making a difference in the lives of ADHDers and other neurodivergent people. Learn more at iactcenter.com.Julien Mussi, our student, passed away unexpectedly during our inaugural class in 2015. We offer Julien Mussi Scholarships to honor his passion for helping others. Visit: iactcenter.com/scholarship✨ The Gifted Learning Lab:The Gifted Learning Lab is all about empowering parents to raise their...

As a gifted, BIPOC individual, it can be uniquely challenging to navigate day-to-day experiences and find meaningful connections, especially prior to the discovery of giftedness.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, along with Sheldon Gay, an entrepreneur, podcast host, and the Vice-Chair of the neurodivergent-affirming non-profit, Umbrella US, discuss his unique perspective on being seen beneath our social masks, the societal impact of intellectual identity as a BIPOC human, and his personal self-discovery journey of giftedness.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover the complexities and societal pressures of intellectual identity and how they shape interactions and self-perception, as well as the struggle to find genuine connections while managing unique cognitive abilities.Gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by gifted individuals, especially within marginalized communities. Learn about the burden of expectations, code-switching as a gifted black man, and the journey of self-acceptance.Learn about Sheldon Gay's perspective on navigating biases in professional spaces, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of self-trust and empathy in both personal and professional settings.As you explore the depths of your own identity and capabilities, remember the importance of self-trust and creating spaces where you can be your authentic self. Reflect on how societal expectations may have influenced your journey and seek communities that celebrate your unique experiences and perspectives.More about Sheldon:Sheldon Gay is an entrepreneur with a background in engineering and creating memorable customer experiences. He's worked in various fields, including healthcare, nonprofits, and education-technology. In addition to growing multiple businesses, he is currently the Vice-Chair of the neurodivergent-affirming non-profit, Umbrella US. As a Black man who discovered later in life that he’s neurodivergent, he sees the world from a different angle than most. Due to his unique perspective, he knows all too well how it feels to be “the only one” in a room. After intense self-discovery work in his early 40s, he found answers to life-long questions and received freedom from burdens he'd carried since he was a child. Now, he uses his experiences to help others embrace their true selves and release their burdens as well. Sheldon helps his audiences become curious about their minds, combat loneliness through community, and experience peace and joy through authenticity.Website: sheldongayisbugn.comSocial Media: @imustbebugn and @imustbebugn.bsky.social———————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube———————————————————————Thanks to Our...

If you are the parent of a gifted or twice-exceptional (2e) child, you know the unique challenges and pressures these children face.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Dr. Danika Maddocks, a gifted/2e parent coach and owner of The Gifted Learning Lab, discuss the complexities of raising and supporting gifted and 2e kids, including the internal and external pressures, the impact of growth vs. fixed mindsets, and the innovative strategies that can support these exceptional children.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insights into the internal and external pressures that gifted and 2e children face, and how these can lead to intense emotional and psychological distress despite their apparent successes.Explore the influence and impact of a growth mindset vs. a fixed mindset, especially how understanding and fostering the right mindset aids in developing resilience and coping mechanisms for gifted children.Learn practical, neurodiversity-affirming strategies to support a gifted or 2e child's emotional and cognitive development, including effective validation techniques and the importance of environmental fit.As you consider the best ways to support and nurture the gifted children in your life, remember to look beyond labels and standards. Focus on creating environments where their unique abilities can thrive, allowing them to grow and develop a healthy sense of self.More about Danika:Dr. Danika Maddocks is a gifted/2e parent coach and owner of The Gifted Learning Lab. She helps parents let go of standard parenting pressures and build a unique family life that actually works for their kid and themselves. She has supported gifted and twice-exceptional kids, teens, and their families for over 15 years as a teacher, therapist, school consultant, assessment provider, and coach. Her work is also informed by her personal experiences growing up gifted, being a late-identified autistic adult, and raising a young gifted/2e kid.Danika has a free email mini-course called Reduce Power Struggles with Your Gifted/2e Kid. All parents want to feel like they're on the same team as their kid or teen, but gifted/2e parents often feel stuck in negotiations and power struggles, no matter what parenting advice they try. In this free, 5-day mini-course, parents will learn practical strategies to prevent, reduce, and defuse power struggles with their gifted/2e kid or teen. Access the free course: giftedlearninglab.com/powerWebsite: giftedlearninglab.comInstagram: instagram.com/giftedlearninglabFacebook: facebook.com/giftedlearninglab———————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube...

Giftedness is paired with a unique cognitive and emotional makeup accompanied by many societal misconceptions. Many individuals find themselves grappling with high expectations, internalized stigma, and a constant quest for intellectual stimulation, often reconciling feelings of exceptional capability with misunderstood struggles.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Katy Higgins Lee, a multiply neurodivergent therapist, discuss the nuanced world of giftedness, including the intersection of giftedness, neurodivergence, and the emotional landscape that comes with it.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand the trauma that can arise from being labeled as gifted, and how societal misunderstandings and high expectations can lead to negative perceptions and unresolved emotional struggles.Explore the concept of "overexcitabilities" from the theory of positive disintegration and how recognizing these heightened sensitivities can aid in self-care and managing intellectual and sensory needs for a balanced life.Discover practical approaches and supportive communities that help twice exceptional (2e) individuals navigate their unique challenges, providing a sense of belonging and validation.As you reflect on your unique journey or that of someone you care about, consider the nuances that shape your experiences and needs. Understanding and embracing these can open doors to self-acceptance and fulfilling connections.More about Katy:Katy Higgins Lee, MFT (she/her) is a multiply neurodivergent therapist in private practice in Northern California. She is also a clinical supervisor, continuing education provider, neurodiversity advocate, unschooling parent, gardener, and writer.Katy’s Trainings: katyhigginslee.com/trainingsKaty’s Groups: katyhigginslee.com/groups Instagram: nstagram.com/tendingpathsFacebook: facebook.com/katyhigginsleemftYouTube: youtu.be/7pMcDdfEj6AI Must Be BUG’N Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/3sW2KsIJ8HumxE9YgRZKFS?si=1f9748dbff9d4126Our Wild Minds Facebook Group: facebook.com/ourwildminds———————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ 

The rich, layered experience of gifted and neurodivergent individuals often includes profound emotional sensitivity, rapid thinking, and unique challenges in daily life.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Dr. Matthew Zakreski, a speaker and clinical psychologist, discuss the complexities of neurodivergence and giftedness, including impostor syndrome, executive functioning, the concept of the rule of 5, mirror neurons, and the emotional depth of overexcitability.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Discover the unique traits of gifted and neurodivergent individuals, including the intense emotional experiences known as overexcitabilities, and learn how these shape one's perception of the world.Dive into the concept of executive dysfunction, where Dr. Zakreski offers a straightforward explanation to help you understand why certain tasks can feel overwhelming, reframing "can't" instead of "won't."Explore the persistent nature of impostor syndrome among neurodivergent individuals, and learn how embracing authenticity and self-compassion can alleviate feelings of self-doubt and foster deeper connections.As you reflect on the diverse aspects of giftedness and neurodivergence, remember that unique ways of experiencing, processing, and interacting with the world are both valuable and valid. Whether or not you are neurodivergent or gifted, embrace your strengths, seek understanding for your challenges, and find communities where you can be your authentic self.More about Dr. Matt:Matthew "Dr. Matt" Zakreski, PsyD is a high-energy professional speaker and clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodivergent (gifted, 2e, ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, etc.) people. He has spoken more than 900 times all over the world on both stages and podcasts about supporting neurodivergent people in all walks of life, from schools to college to the workplace. Dr. Matt specializes in taking knowledge of the brain, human behavior, and clinical psychology and making that accessible and practical for people to improve their lives.Dr. Matt is the co-founder and lead clinician at The Neurodiversity Collective, an active member of the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), as well as the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC) and the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE).Book (Neurodiversity Playbook)Consulting: drmattzakreski.com/blank-3Podcast (Nerding Out on Neurodiversity)Website: drmattzakreski.com ———————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast here🎙️Spotify🎙️

There are many stereotypes about giftedness, what it really means, and the connection it might have to neurodivergent traits related to autism or ADHD, but it’s actually a much more complex and nuanced label.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Emily Kircher-Morris, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a rich background in both education and mental health, discuss the multifaceted world of giftedness and neurodivergence, unraveling the intricate layers of IQ, societal expectations, and the personal journeys that shape the lives of gifted individuals.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Dive into an enlightening discussion on the evolving definitions of giftedness and twice-exceptionality, and discover how universal screening in education can help identify students from marginalized backgrounds.Gain insights into the social and emotional struggles unique to gifted individuals, including the pressures of perfectionism and the challenges of making social connections.Learn about the theory of overexcitabilities and how sensitivities in gifted individuals relate to their cognitive and emotional experiences, shedding light on the biological and environmental factors that play a role.Reflect on the importance of creating environments that support neurodivergent traits, challenge societal norms linking productivity to self-worth, and advocate for systemic changes that nurture the unique qualities of gifted individuals.More about Emily:Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC, is the host of The Neurodiversity Podcast, which explores the psychological, educational, and social needs for enriching the lives of neurodivergent people. She is the author of several books for parents and educators related to the development of children and teens who are neurodivergent and cognitively gifted. She started her career in education and now works as a mental health counselor in private practice outside of St. Louis, Missouri, specializing in supporting neurodivergent, twice-exceptional, and gifted people of all ages.The Neurodiversity Podcast: neurodiversitypodcast.comNeurodiversity University: neurodiversity.universityNeurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported: amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Affirming-Schools-Transforming-Practices-Supported/dp/B0D81QWSX8Teaching Twice-Exceptional Learners in Today’s Classroom: freespirit.com/teaching-strategies-and-professional-development/teaching-twice-exceptional-learners-in-todays-classroom-emily-kircher-morris-2e-learnersTwitter: twitter.com/EmilyKM_LPCFacebook: facebook.com/EmilyKircherMorrisPodcast Facebook Page: facebook.com/NeurodiversityPodcast———————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the 

Balancing vulnerability and authenticity can be challenging, but also deeply rewarding. In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Samuel Silverman, a psychiatrist and stand-up comedian diagnosed with OCD and ADHD, about the intersection of comedy, mental health, and the digital age.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insights into how the blend of personal vulnerability and social critique in comedy helps individuals connect with their audience and understand their own mental health experiences more deeply.Hear Samuel Silverman's unique perspective on balancing a career in psychiatry with a presence on comedy stages and in social media, including the ethical boundaries he maintains while advocating for mental health awareness.Discover practical advice on recognizing and managing OCD, understanding its pervasive nature of doubt, and learning how self-expression can be a cathartic way to handle internal struggles.As you reflect on this conversation, consider how your own experiences and challenges might be transformed through creative expression and connection. Remember that sharing your journey, setting healthy boundaries, and advocating for understanding can be powerful tools in the mental health landscape.Note from Samuel:I was born and raised in Baltimore, MD, in a progressive Jewish family. I went to the same small progressive school that my mother and aunt attended — my grandmother actually taught there while the two of them were in school, and my mother later taught there while my brother and I attended.When I was 18, I traveled halfway across the country to attend Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota. It was there that I met my wife, Kelley Stevens, better known as “The Private Practice Pro.”I attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency training at Loma Linda University. As I was completing my residency, I began to explore the world of stand-up comedy, and started performing throughout Southern California before traveling to other parts of the country to tell jokes, when I’m not too busy seeing patients.I myself have diagnoses of both OCD and ADHD. More than anything, OCD has colored so much of my experience. Because of this, my symptoms and struggles with this condition provide much of the material for my comedy.Instagram: @samsilvermancomedy————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

Neurodivergent individuals often find mental health topics like OCD, autism, and ADHD intertwined in ways that can complicate their personal narratives and self-identity.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss with Brittany Goff, an LCSW, the Clinical Director at Zen Psychological Center, and an instructor at the Cognitive Behavioral Institute, about the critical intersections of OCD, autism, and ADHD, their impact on well-being, and the use of I-CBT in the treatment of OCD for neurodivergent individuals.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Understand how sensory discrepancies can lead to the development of obsessive stories, particularly for autistic individuals, and how inference-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (I-CBT) offers a tailored approach to counteract these doubts.Discover the unique challenges and strategies for neurodivergent individuals, including those with undiagnosed autism or ADHD, in managing OCD symptoms and building self-trust through a neuro-affirmative lens.Learn about the intersection of personal experiences, vulnerable self-themes, and logical reasoning with OCD, and how neurodivergent traits such as hyperempathy and rejection sensitivity influence the creation of obsessive narratives.As you reflect on this episode, consider how your sensory experiences and neurodivergent traits affect your perception of reality and self-trust, as well as how I-CBT can offer tools and strategies to foster a stronger sense of certainty and understanding in your daily life.DISCLAIMER: I-CBT is currently only evidence-based for OCD.More about Brittany:Brittany Goff is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Clinical Director at Zen Psychological Center, a neuroaffirming OCD practice in Maryland. Additionally, she serves as an Instructor at the Cognitive Behavioral Institute, where she provides continuing education in Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for OCD. She authored the first-ever I-CBT workbook and was one of the first adopters of I-CBT in the United States. She is the first clinician to offer I-CBT training specifically tailored for individuals with Autism and ADHD, a neuroaffirming approach to treating OCD.For those wanting to learn more about Inference-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, visit the following two Facebook groups: I-CBT & Neurodivergence: For licensed therapists, graduate students, researchers, and occupational therapists to discuss the application of I-CBT. Free Resources will be shared for use with clients. I-CBT & Neurodivergence Community: A supportive space for all individuals to connect and share experiences. Free resources, games, and worksheets are accessible to those wanting to apply I-CBT with the help of an I-CBT provider. If you’re interested in deepening your understanding, you can find Brittany Goff’s I-CBT training below, which focuses on resolving the OCD doubt. This fidelity of the model helps you teach your clients how to break free from the obsessive thinking patterns that create convincing narratives of doubt. Trainings in I-CBT: icbtonlinelearning.comIf you are interested in learning how to adapt I-CBT for neurodivergence join the waitlist here and you will be notified when the training is released: y06gsdn8vfh.typeform.com/to/NidrJHd9The neurodivergence training integrates the framework of neurodivergent identity traits and experiences—such as hyper empathy, a strong sense of justice, interoception and proprioception differences, Alexithymia, Rejection Sensitivity...

Navigating the healthcare system and advocating for needs can be a frustrating and invalidating experience, especially for neurodivergent individuals who exhibit interwoven behaviors associated with OCD, autism, or Tourettes.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, and Dr. Stacy Greeter, an AuDHD and OCD child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist, discuss the multi-faceted challenges of accessing appropriate healthcare, the nuances of differentiating between behaviors related to OCD, Austim, and Tourettes, and the significance of authenticity in professional environments.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain valuable insights into how to navigate the healthcare system more effectively by preparing questions, bringing an ally, and scheduling frequent consultations, emphasizing the importance of patient self-advocacy in medical appointments.Understand the distinctions among stimming, tics, and OCD compulsions, and learn to differentiate value-driven actions from fear-based compulsions, helping to provide clarity and reduce pathologizing behaviors that bring joy.Discover the importance of authenticity and individuality in both medical and therapeutic fields, hearing firsthand experiences from professionals who embrace their neurodivergent identities to foster better client outcomes and work cultures.As you reflect on this episode, consider the importance of advocating for your needs within the healthcare system. Remember, your voice and experience are crucial in navigating these complex environments.More about Stacy:Dr. Stacy Greeter is an AuDHD and OCD child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist in Sarasota, FL. Her autistic special interests include fantasy creatures and everything psychiatry. She uses metaphors from fantasy universes such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and The Little Mermaid to make complex psychiatric concepts more relatable and advocate for autistic patients and other autistic doctors.Website: stacygreetermd.comYouTube: youtube.com/@stacygreetermdPsychiatry Boot Camp: stacygreetermd.com/psychiatry-boot-campFree Resource on Healthcare Advocacy————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

OCD is often misunderstood and can manifest in many forms from a variety of experiences that create associations with a compulsion and an outcome.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, are joined by Aiden Reis, a trans, Autistic therapist who specializes in OCD, anxiety, phobias, and panic. They discuss practical strategies for effectively managing OCD through Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy using a value-driven and neurodivergent-affirming approach.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Learn practical strategies for rebuilding self-trust after anxiety-inducing experiences, drawing from Aiden Reis’s invaluable insights into Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy adapted for neurodivergent individuals.Discover the importance of accommodating sensory needs in therapy without reinforcing anxiety, and understand how to effectively differentiate between sensory sensitivities and anxiety responses.Gain a richer appreciation of how addressing "what if" scenarios and unhooking from distressing thoughts can lead to profound empowerment and emotional resilience, helping you live a good life despite potential challenges.OCD can be challenging, but there are ways to manage it, and ERP done using a neurodivergent-affirming approach, can be an effective tool in managing OCD for neurodivergent individuals.More about Aiden:Aiden is a trans and autistic, private practice therapist based in Massachusetts. Working with Autistic and ADHDer clients, he is passionate about providing neurodivergent-affirming and LGBT-positive therapy. He specializes in OCD, anxiety, phobias, and panic. Aiden is a member of the International OCD Foundation.Website: www.divergecounseling.com————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

For neurodivergent individuals, navigating the upheaval caused by natural disasters can be particularly challenging. The constant unpredictability, sensory overload, and disrupted routines can feel overwhelming.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the psychological, emotional, and physical impact of natural disasters on neurodivergent individuals. Patrick, who lives in Asheville, NC, which was destroyed by Hurricane Helene, shares his experience.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Hear firsthand accounts from Patrick, a resident of Asheville, NC, about the challenges of enduring Hurricane Helene as a neurodivergent individual, including the disorientation from losing communication and navigating resource scarcity.Learn about the incredible efforts in Western North Carolina to band together, raise funds, and offer psychological support amid the chaos, showcasing the power of communal strength and how individuals can offer support that still works with their sensory needs.Understand the coping mechanisms and strategies for reestablishing normalcy, including navigating grief and routine disruption, that neurodivergent individuals can employ in the face of crisis.If you want to donate to Patrick's GoFundMe to help provide urgent aid for Western North Carolina communities affected by Hurricane Helene, visit: atppod.com/wncNOTE: Please be aware that this episode includes a first-hand account of the tragedy and devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often oversimplified and misrepresented, turning a complex mental health condition into a stereotype of mere cleanliness or orderliness. For those who struggle with it, the reality is far more nuanced, affecting many aspects of daily life and self-perception.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, provide a compassionate, insightful conversation about the perceptions, identities, and experiences tied to OCD.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain a better understanding of OCD as a mental health condition, how it differs from commonly held misconceptions, and why self-determination and neurodivergent-affirming practices are crucial.Hear personal stories about living with OCD, from intrusive thoughts and auditory hallucinations to coping mechanisms, and learn how these experiences align—or clash—with other neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD.Discover strategies for reducing stigma and opened discussions around OCD and mental health, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and educated perspectives.When exploring more about OCD, especially within yourself or in support of others, remember that understanding and compassion are key. Equip yourself with knowledge, seek out supportive communities, and always prioritize your mental well-being.Resource:Related Neurodivergent Insights Article: What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?Visit: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/obsessive-compulsive-disorder————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

Neuroimmune systems often intertwine with chronic health and neurodivergence, leaving neurodivergent individuals grappling with things like energy management, chronic fatigue, or other long-term health conditions.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Dr. Mel Houser, an Autistic family physician, about the intricate dynamics of chronic health, energy management, and the often-overlooked connection between neuroimmune systems and neurodivergence.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain a deeper understanding of post-exertional malaise (PEM) and how recognizing one's limits can help in avoiding the debilitating crash that often follows overexertion.Using real-life experiences, understand the systemic challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals within a traditional healthcare model, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy and community support.Discover practical strategies and tools from Dr. Houser on identifying environmental triggers and making manageable adjustments to improve health, particularly for autistic and ADHD adults.As you navigate your own healthcare journey, remember to honor your limits, seek out community, and advocate for the care you deserve.DISCLAIMER: This episode is not intended as medical advice.More about Dr. Mel Houser:Dr. Mel Houser (she/they) is an Autistic family physician with a clinical focus on providing primary care for neurodivergent patients across the lifespan. She is the Founder and Executive Director of All Brains Belong VT, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in Montpelier, Vermont that uses universal design principles to provide neurodiversity-affirming medical care, social connection opportunities for all ages, and neurodiversity-related educational training. At age 37, Dr. Houser was diagnosed as autistic, ADHD, dyspraxic, dyslexic, and dyscalculic. She is also the parent of an autistic 6-year-old, who is her guru of so many keys to the universe.Website: allbrainsbelong.orgGet Connected: allbrainsbelong.org/get-connectedClinician Resources: allbrainsbelong.org/clinician-resourcesInstagram: @allbrainsbelongvtBateman Horne Center Website: batemanhornecenter.orgCheck out All Brains Belong’s project: Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic & ADHD Adults provides health education resources to support people with this constellation of intertwined conditions, as well as strategies for discussing the project with medical providers. There is also a Clinician Guide with a combination of evidence-based practice and the lived experiences of more than 100 Autistic and ADHD community members.Here's the link to the project: allbrainsbelong.org/all-the-things————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️a...

By exploring biopsychosocial aspects of life, it can become easier to understand our nervous systems from a holistic perspective offering more options to improve our quality of life with simple and manageable changes.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, explore the biopsychosocial aspects of chronic fatigue and long COVID, and how these affect one's social life and overall health through the lens of Megan’s experiences.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Learn about realistic and attainable goal-setting to overall health using a biopsychosocial approach, highlighting why it's important to avoid extremes and embrace small, achievable changes.Gain insight into how personal struggles and professional advice sometimes contradict, as well as discover a more holistic perspective that underscores the importance of authenticity.Discover the psychological and biological dimensions of Megan’s chronic fatigue and long COVID, and how these affect her social life and overall health.As you listen, consider how you can apply these discussions to your own life, setting realistic goals and fostering a sense of balance. Make self-care a priority, and remember that small, positive changes can create ripple effects that significantly enhance your mental and physical health.DISCLAIMER: This episode is not intended as medical advice.Resources:Biopsychosocial Venn Diagram Download: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1W8zJvBOcokPqW2OIi70hIhlqmJcowdKA/view?usp=sharing————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

A lot can be learned about our nervous system and needs by looking at biopsychosocial aspects of life.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, explore the biopsychosocial aspects of sleep and how they intersect with mental health through the lens of Patrick’s experiences.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain insight into Patrick Casale's ongoing battle with sleep issues, from his childhood to the present day, and learn how various factors—like sleep environment, hydration habits, and caffeine intake—impact his nights.Hear Dr. Neff's expert advice on practical strategies for better sleep, including the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) and small, manageable changes that can make a big difference over time.Understand the biopsychosocial dimensions of sleep disturbances, including how stress, rumination, and hypervigilance can disrupt your rest, and discover methods to counter these challenges through visualization and grounding exercises.If you struggle with sleep, consider doing a biopsychosocial assessment for yourself, and find the small changes you can implement to improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.DISCLAIMER: This episode is not intended as medical advice.Resources:Patrick’s Biopsychosocial Venn Diagram Download: drive.google.com/file/d/1W5SwQ1x3gmEc6fnpVyMjhPUfzFwI2A07/view?usp=sharingBiopsychosocial Venn Diagram Download: drive.google.com/file/d/1W8zJvBOcokPqW2OIi70hIhlqmJcowdKA/view?usp=sharingSleep Resource (Neurodivergent Article): neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/autism-adhd-and-sleepSleep Workbook (Neurodivergent Insights): neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/sleep (Use Code: DCPOD for 25% off)————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube

Dealing with chronic health issues can often feel like a neverending battle, especially when it seems like there’s no clear path to improvement.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss their personal battles with chronic health conditions. They provide an insightful analysis using the biopsychosocial model, share their experiences, and introduce this new series on chronic health issues for neurodivergent individuals.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Gain practical insights into managing chronic health struggles through the biopsychosocial model, which considers the interconnected biological, psychological, and social factors affecting well-being.Discover the power of setting concrete, manageable goals to tackle issues such as sleep, depression, and chronic pain, and learn strategies to cultivate self-efficacy and align your actions with your values.Learn how diet, exercise, and behavioral health perspectives play crucial roles in managing complex medical conditions, and hear about the hosts' personal plans to focus on movement and diet for improved health.As you embark on your own journey to better health, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Identify one tangible goal you can work on today, and consider the broader biopsychosocial factors influencing your well-being. Reflect on how you can take actionable steps, no matter how small, towards living a more value-aligned life.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube