Divergent Conversations

Latest Episodes:

Episode 64: Ask The Audience (#2): Language for Autism, and Neurodivergent Therapists Jul 26, 2024

Show notes

It’s natural to have many questions following neurodivergent discovery, diagnosis, or while embracing a new identity. Additionally, there are individuals who might not identify as neurodivergent but are curious about the very nuanced conversations happening in and around the neurodivergent community.

In this second Ask The Audience episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, respond to questions they have received from podcast listeners and their communities.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Dive into the controversial topic of whether "everyone is a little bit autistic" and understand why this statement can be harmful and dismissive to the autistic community.
Gain insight into the nuances of language used to describe neurodivergence, including the pros and cons of terms like ASD, high functioning, and on the spectrum, and why identity-first language can be empowering.
Explore the unique challenges and potential advantages of being an Autistic or ADHD therapist, and learn practical tips for preventing burnout and finding success in the field.

As you navigate your own neurodivergent journey, remember that you are not alone, and your inquiries are invaluable, not just to you, but to countless others facing similar challenges. We will continue to have episodes like this in the future, so we appreciate your questions to help guide these future episodes.

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✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout Resources

If you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources

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💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground

Divergent Conversations Undergroundis a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a neurodivergent-affirming community. If you’d like to go deeper with us into more nuanced, searching conversations, join here: divergentconversations.substack.com

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 63: Ask The Audience (#1): Adult Autism, Identity Shifts, and Podcast Insights Jul 19, 2024

Show notes

It’s natural to have a flood of questions following neurodivergent discovery, diagnosis, or while embracing a new identity. Additionally, there are individuals who might not identify as neurodivergent but just have curiosity about the very nuanced conversations happening in and around the neurodivergent community.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, respond to questions they have received from podcast listeners and their communities.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Hear Dr. Neff and Patrick share their “surprising” experiences and personal growth as podcast hosts, including overcoming anxiety, balancing preparation and spontaneity, working on relational aspects of podcasting, establishing and honoring boundaries, finding confidence, and more.
Gain insights into the late autism diagnosis journey, including common identity development processes like unmasking, exploring gender and sexuality, and how this affects relationships, as well as advice for communicating your diagnosis to friends and family, managing their reactions, and deciding when and how to educate others.
Learn about the legal and medical implications of an autism diagnosis, the genetic factors, and how understanding family history can provide deeper insights into your own neurodivergence.

Your inquiries are invaluable, not just to you, but to countless others facing similar challenges. We will continue to have episodes like this in the future, so we appreciate your questions to help guide these future episodes.

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Thanks to Our Sponsors:

✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout Resources

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 62: In-Between Phase of an Autism Diagnosis: From Asking to Assessment [featuring Jak Levine-Pritzker] Jul 12, 2024

Show notes

For adults who are questioning if they are Autistic, ADHD, etc., there is often an exploratory and somewhat confusing phase where they feel in between two different identities.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk with Jak Levine-Pritzker, ADHD coach and founder of Authentically ADHD LLC, about the nuances of navigating identity when exploring the possibility of an autism diagnosis, as well as the effect of facing internalized ableism and external input throughout the assessment process.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Learn about Jak's personal experiences with the questioning of fitting into or out of diagnostic criteria, especially when examining overlapping traits between ADHD and autism.
Gain insights into the complexities and nuances of the assessment process for neurodivergent conditions, exploring both the quantitative and qualitative aspects that go beyond standardized tests.
Discover the evolving understanding of neurotypes, including the impact of self-identification on assessments and the relevance of organizing principles like monotropism and flow state.

As you reflect on your own journey or support others in their quest for clarity, remember to ask questions, be mindful that neurodivergent experiences and diagnoses are full of grey areas and overlapping traits, and if you choose to seek a diagnosis, try to approach it with an open mind.

More about Jak:

Jak Levine-Pritzker(she/her) is an ADHD coach, mental health advocate, and founder of Authentically ADHD LLC. With an online community of over 90k people and a robust coaching practice, she has empowered thousands of ADHDers to heal their internalized ableism and shame and design a life that *actually* works for their brains using a strengths-based approach.

Jak is passionate about normalizing and depathologizing what it means to be human, especially a neurodivergent (and queer) human. She shares openly about her own lived experience navigating ADHD, OCD, depression, PMDD, and grief. She truly believes that people with ADHD are not disordered or broken and can live wonderfully successful, fulfilling lives when given the proper support, resources, and environment to thrive.

In what feels like another multiverse, she received a law degree from CUNY Queens with clinical training in mediation. She is from upstate NY and currently lives in the Santa Cruz Mountains with her cat, Zen.

Check out Jak’s online membership (authenticallyadhd.com/membership)! It is an online community for 18+ ADHD adults. There are coaching calls, socials, body doubles, weekly/monthly resets, and more. It is a lovely community and sliding scale starts at $19/month but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

Website: authenticallyadhd.com
Instagram: instagram.com/authenticallyadhd

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 61: ADHD & Romanticism: Reconciling Fantasies with Reality Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

For ADHDers, romanticism is a common struggle where you find yourself constantly daydreaming about an ideal future and struggling with the reality of the present.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricacies of romanticizing experiences and the repercussions that come with it. As neurodivergent mental health professionals, they offer a unique perspective on how projecting ideal futures can create a disconnect with the present, leading to disappointment and restlessness.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Discover the impact of romanticizing future outcomes on mental health, particularly for those with ADHD and other neurodivergent traits, and how it can disrupt your ability to enjoy the present moment.
Hear Dr. Neff and Patrick's personal stories about their struggles with restlessness and the unending need for new experiences, and learn how this affects their daily lives.
Explore strategies to reconcile your idealized visions of the future with the messy reality of the present, and find out how to cultivate a sense of settled contentment.

Take some time to reflect on your own tendencies to romanticize the future. Consider how this impacts your well-being and what steps you can take to stay grounded in the present and find balance one moment at a time.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 60: Understanding ADHD Tax: Impact, Personal Stories, and Management Strategies Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

It’s common for ADHDers to feel these waves of inspiration that may lead to a romanticized version of the future that would come by acting on them. However, if action is taken, it alternatively might be accompanied by the ADHD tax—financial burden, over-commitment, broken dreams and promises, feelings of guilt and regret, etc.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the concept of the ADHD tax and its impact on various facets of life such as time, money, and relationships. Both hosts share their personal experiences and practical tips on how to better manage impulsivity, as well as explore the impact of standard marketing practices on impulsive action.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Gain valuable insights into how the ADHD tax manifests in everyday life, from impulsive travel bookings to forgotten groceries, and learn strategies to prevent and mitigate these financial and emotional costs.
Hear about the intricate balance of excitement and capacity in neurodivergent collaborations. Dive into tips for managing overwhelming enthusiasm and the importance of slow productivity and setting boundaries.
Learn ethical marketing practices that consider the needs of neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the importance of building relationships over manipulative sales tactics and creating a consumer-friendly environment.

As you navigate the challenges of impulsivity and overstimulation, remember that understanding and implementing mindful strategies can help you lead a more balanced life. Take a moment to pause before making hasty decisions, and prioritize your well-being as you create a space where both your ideas and your downtime are respected.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 59: ADHD Interest-Based Nervous Systems Jun 21, 2024

Show notes

Navigating the world with ADHD can present unique challenges, particularly when it comes to motivation and productivity. Whether it's the difficulty of getting started on mundane tasks or the complexities of staying engaged over time, the rollercoaster of emotional ups and downs can be hard to manage.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricacies of the ADHD interest-based nervous system, how it impacts daily life, and practical ways to enhance motivation and productivity.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Discover effective techniques to manage your interest-based nervous system, from creating engaging environments to the use of dopamine stacking.
Gain insights into different approaches for handling mundane tasks like household chores, including the concept of body doubling and competition.
Learn how the 5 motivators encapsulated in the acronym P.I.N.C.H. (Passion [discussed in terms of Play for this episode], Interest, Novelty, Competition/Collaboration/Connection, and Hurry Up) can influence your actions and help overcome procrastination and anxiety.

Try exploring ways to incorporate the 5 motivators for the ADHD system into your environment and approach to tasks. Understanding your unique nervous system is a step toward having more engagement and productivity, even when facing understimulating tasks.

Resources:

Visit vs. Force-Based Approach to ADHD: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/power-of-a-visit
Interest-Based Nervous System Article: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/interest-based-nervous-system
Interest-Based Nervous System And ADHD Workbook: neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/interest-based-nervous-system

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 58: “What is ADHD?” (Part 4): Unpacking ADHD Impulsive Traits Jun 14, 2024

Show notes

ADHD often brings unique challenges with impulsive behaviors which can make everyday interactions and tasks more complex. In an attempt to better understand the ways ADHD can present in daily life, this episode uses the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as a framework for discussion—this is not an endorsement of the DSM-5.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricate dynamics of impulsivity in ADHD, blending personal experiences with clinical insights.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Explore the differences and connections between impulsivity and hyperactivity in the DSM-5, and understand how these traits can manifest differently in adults versus children.
Gain a deeper understanding of how impulsivity can impact various aspects of life, from relationships to career choices, and hear about ways to channel this energy positively.
Understand how the DSM-5 criteria is used to determine an ADHD diagnosis.

As you listen, you might find parts of these criteria and stories that resonate with your own life, whether you have ADHD or simply face similar struggles. We encourage you to stay curious about your own experiences and continue exploring these important topics.

DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5.

Resources:

ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures
PDF: neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 57: “What is ADHD?” (Part 3): Unpacking ADHD-Hyperactive Traits Jun 07, 2024

Show notes

ADHD hyperactive traits are often misunderstood and the DSM-5’s portrayal of this type is heavily geared toward children and adolescents, which can make it harder to understand and address in adulthood. In an attempt to better understand the ways ADHD can present in daily life, this episode uses the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as a framework for discussion—this is not an endorsement of the DSM-5.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the ADHD hyperactive type and share their personal experiences.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Learn about the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD hyperactive type and hear personal stories about managing these behaviors in social and professional settings.
Gain insight into the concept of masking in ADHD, explore the internal struggle to self-monitor and achieve time equity in conversations, and understand its impact on relationships.
Discover the challenges and strategies for being present in the moment, channeling hyperactive energy, and addressing the grief associated with limited movement as a result of aging or injuries.

DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5.

Resources:

ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures
PDF: neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 56: “What is ADHD?” (Part 2): Unpacking ADHD-Inattentive Traits May 31, 2024

Show notes

ADHD has many nuances and is often misunderstood and stereotyped. In an attempt to better understand the ways ADHD can present in daily life, this episode uses the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as a framework for discussion—this is not an endorsement of the DSM-5.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, talk about the DSM-5 criteria for the inattentive subtype of ADHD, as well as share their personal experiences.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Understand the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD, offering a deeper understanding of the inattentive, combined, and hyperactive subtypes.
Hear about Dr. Neff and Patrick’s struggles with inattentive traits of ADHD, including household chores, daily activities, the overwhelming feeling of decision fatigue, and the resulting “ADHD Tax.”
Discover some ways that Patrick and Dr. Neff cope with the day-to-day struggles of ADHD, from managing time and prioritizing tasks to overcoming the hurdles of incomplete projects and decision fatigue.

DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5.

Resources:

ADHD DSM In pictures series: Blog post: neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/dsm-5-criteria-for-adhd-explained-in-pictures
PDF: neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/adhd-dsm-in-pictures

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

Episode 55: “What is ADHD?” (Part 1): Personal Stories and Professional Insights May 24, 2024

Show notes

Navigating the identification, assessment, and diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can be confusing and overwhelming. This mini-series on ADHD focuses on demystifying the diagnostic criteria and making the process clearer and more understandable.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, dive into ADHD, breaking down what it means. This episode lays the groundwork for their upcoming series focused on ADHD.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

Get an overview of the often misunderstood and oversimplified traits of ADHD, from executive functioning challenges to emotional hyperarousal.
Hear personal stories from Patrick and Dr. Neff as they reflect on their own ADHD experiences and how misdiagnoses and societal stereotypes can cloud self-understanding.
Discover the interconnectedness and overlapping traits between ADHD and autism, helping to clarify common misconceptions and pave the way for more nuanced discussions.

This episode sets the stage for our mini-series on ADHD.

DISCLAIMER: We're using the DSM-5 criteria as a framework for this conversation, but this is not our endorsement of the DSM-5.

Resources: