EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids - TopPodcast.com

View Top 200 Chart

Back to Rankings Page

EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids — Kids & Family
EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids

welcome to a parenting space actually designed for YOU! where you can get answers about navigating a life that includes autism.

I’m Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist specializing in autism and neuroaffirming care. I have supported 100s of autistic children and their families and have been in the autism field for over a decade.

on this podcast, we focus on supporting your autistic child AND your whole family, including you! every topic is on the table, and your questions (which you can submit through my social media) inspire the episodes created. I share some of my personal stories growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age as well as feature other families’ stories so you know you are not navigating this journey alone. this is a space for you to be SEEN. HEARD. SUPPORTED. and get reputable and reliable information about autism instead of searching Google endlessly for hours. I am so dang grateful that you are here.

***disclaimer: not clinical advice, for educational purposes only***

subscribe to this podcast by hitting the plus or follow button so you don’t miss an episode.

Copyright: © Copyright 2024 Dr. Taylor Day

Latest Episodes:

192 | processing the press on autism and Tylenol Sep 24, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this mini, spontaneous episode, Dr. Tay addresses the recent press conference where the administration linked autism to Tylenol, causing guilt and anxiety among parents. She emphasizes the importance of taking time to process emotions, the prevalence of misinformation, and the need for compassion. Dr. Tay reassures listeners that it's okay to take a pause, mute social media, and focus on emotional processing rather than seeking immediate answers. She encourages parents to embrace their current reality with their autistic child and highlights the complexity of autism's causes.

00:00 Introduction

00:19 Addressing the Press Conference on Autism and Tylenol

00:52 Processing and Community Feedback

02:25 Neurodiversity and Emotional Support

05:08 Clarifying Misconceptions about Autism Causes

06:38 Encouragement and Self-Care Tips

09:47 Final Thoughts and Outro

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here to have a community support you during these trying times

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

191 | navigating demands + boundaries with the 3 bucket approach Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares a sneak peek into a training within EVOLVE the memberhsip. Sh dives into the concept of low demand parenting, particularly for families with children who resonate with the PDA profile. Dr. Tay introduces and explains the "3 Bucket Approach" to help parents manage demands and boundaries effectively. The episode also outlines the benefits of joining the membership where deeper guidance, resources, and community support are provided. Additionally, Dr. Tay highlights the importance of understanding family values and giving children autonomy, while maintaining necessary non-negotiable boundaries for safety and key family values.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:36 Membership Insights and Podcast Differences

01:15 Introducing a New Resource

02:22 Understanding Low Demand Parenting

06:21 The Three Bucket Approach

06:55 Non-Negotiables and Key Family Values

08:41 The Shoulds: Dropping Unnecessary Demands

11:01 The Ideal or Yet Bucket

11:57 Practical Examples and Applications

15:48 Conclusion and Membership Invitation

18:00 Episode Wrap-Up and Future Content

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

190 | jealousy in autism parenting: why it’s normal (and what to do with it) Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist and parental coach specializing in neurodiversity affirming care, explores the concept of jealousy and why it is a valid and normal emotion. Dr. Tay discusses the importance of experiencing and processing jealousy, rather than suppressing it, and how this can impact personal growth and well-being. The episode also addresses the complexity of co-existing emotions like hope and jealousy, and provides insights on how to navigate these feelings as a parent of an autistic child. Dr. Tay shares personal stories, professional insights, and practical advice on emotion regulation to help parents better support themselves and their families.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:05 Understanding Jealousy as a Valid Emotion

01:15 The Impact of Suppressing Emotions

04:06 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Processing

12:06 Real-Life Applications and Parental Support

18:27 Affirmation and Momentum

18:42 Understanding Jealousy

19:06 Balancing Emotions

19:31 Validating Emotions

20:53 Navigating Jealousy and Hope

21:39 Seeking Support

24:00 Embracing Jealousy

26:38 Reflecting on Jealousy

33:15 Final Thoughts and Resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here and listen to my glimmers training that helps you to better understand progress

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered. visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

189 | building a neuro-inclusive family through couples therapy with Dr. Ali Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay delves into the underexplored topic of couples therapy within the autism community, emphasizing its proactive rather than reactive use. Joined by Dr. Ali Perkinson, a neurodiverse couples therapist and licensed psychologist, the discussion covers how couples therapy can support harmonious family dynamics, understanding neurodiverse communication styles, and breaking down stigmas around couples therapy. Dr. Ali shares insights from her practice, highlighting the importance of co-regulation between parents and addressing executive functioning differences. The episode also offers practical tools such as the emotion wheel and the significance of sensory management, aiming to equip parents with strategies that can foster a more neuro-inclusive household.

00:00 Introduction to Couples Therapy in Autism Parenting

00:50 Meet Dr. Ali: Neurodiverse Couples Therapist

02:22 Understanding Neurodiverse Relationships

03:13 Communication Challenges in Neurodiverse Couples

07:15 Common Reasons Couples Seek Therapy

08:25 Proactive vs. Crisis Couples Therapy

10:56 Navigating New Autism Diagnoses as a Family

20:28 Tools and Tips for Neurodiverse Families

22:44 The Importance of Venting in Relationships

22:56 The Fixer Mentality: Strengths and Pitfalls

23:45 Alternative Date Night Ideas for Neurodiverse Couples

24:21 Co-Regulation and Physical Activities

24:54 Therapeutic Modalities for Couples

26:20 Exploring Psychedelic Therapy

30:32 Addressing Executive Dysfunction in Relationships

34:18 Understanding Neurodiverse Love Languages

38:01 The Value of Couples Therapy

40:14 Final Thoughts and Resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ connect with Dr. Ali on Instagram @connectingwithali and learn more about her practice Connection Squared

⚡️ resource to find a neurodiverse couples therapist or coach

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

188 | the chaos of the new school year Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the chaos surrounding the start of a new school year, especially for families of autistic kids. Sharing insights and practical advice from her extensive experience, she addresses anticipatory anxiety, the challenges of advocating within educational systems, and the importance of psychological safety for children. The episode also provides resources on using tools like AI for understanding your rights and articulating your thoughts and emphasizes the power of collaboration with educators and advocates. Tune in for strategies to ensure your child's smooth transition into the school year.

00:00 Introduction to the Chaos of Starting School

02:02 Navigating the Chaos of School Starting

02:49 Anticipatory Anxiety and Its Impact

04:56 Advocating for Your Child in the School System

16:50 The Importance of Psychological Safety at School

21:57 Final Thoughts and Resources

25:51 Conclusion and Ways to Connect

RESOURCES

⚡️check out episodes 53, 57, 115, and 142 to learn more about educational rights and advocacy

⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

187 | a membership sneak peek: neuroaffirming ways to share a diagnosis Q+A Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

this week, i’m giving you a behind-the-scenes listen into a question from inside EVOLVE the membership — my neurodiversity-affirming space for parents of autistic children. in our private weekly q&a, a parent asked how to explain their child’s autism diagnosis to other adults in a way that’s both clear and affirming.

in this episode, you’ll hear my full response, with approaches you can start using right away — from choosing identity-first language to framing your child’s strengths and support needs when talking with educators, family, and friends.

you’ll also get a feel for what it’s like inside EVOLVE the membership, where members can bring their real-life questions instead of turning to Google, ChatGPT, or social media, and get thoughtful, personalized guidance.

00:00 introduction

00:25 welcome to this parenting space

01:34 why EVOLVE the membership?

03:59 behind the scenes of EVOLVE the membership

06:37 this week’s Q&A

11:01 neuroaffirming language explained

22:29 conclusion and membership invitation

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

186 | do you really need the ADOS-2 to diagnose autism? Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay addresses a commonly asked question: Is the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) necessary for an autism diagnosis? Dr. Tay explains what the ADOS-2 is, its role in autism evaluations, and clarifies that while it is a widely respected tool, it is not required for diagnosing autism. The episode emphasizes the importance of using multiple assessment tools and clinical judgment in making an autism diagnosis. Dr. Tay also offers guidance for parents on how to advocate for their children, including questions to ask clinicians. Finally, Dr. Tay highlights the importance of neurodiversity affirming practices and discusses the role of other evaluation tools and telehealth assessments.

00:00 Introduction and Common Questions

00:31 Understanding the ADOS-2

01:02 Training Levels and Misconceptions

02:09 Clinical vs. Research Use

04:07 Sensitivity, Specificity, and Misuse

06:50 Neurodiversity Movement and High Masking

10:26 Alternative Tools and Insurance Challenges

12:26 Challenges with Insurance-Mandated Assessments

12:45 Telehealth Evaluations: Validity and Tools

13:20 Alternative Assessment Tools for Autism

15:58 Key Questions to Ask Your Clinician

19:28 Understanding Autism Traits: Quantity vs. Quality

20:59 Free Resource Guide and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

⚡️Download the Autism Traits Guide

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here

⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

185 | it’s ok to three-putt: golf metaphors for autism parenting Aug 06, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this solo episode, Dr. Tay dives into the concept of perfectionism in autism parenting, sharing insights from her own journey and the experiences of parents she works with. Dr. Tay discusses the challenges of striving for perfection, the importance of being present, and the benefits of responding to feedback. She offers tips for navigating the autism parenting journey, including the value of collaboration, reflection, and admitting mistakes. Using the metaphor of golf, Dr. Tay illustrates the importance of analyzing and adapting to each situation as it arises. She encourages parents to embrace continuous growth and be adaptable, reassuring them that it's okay to not have everything figured out.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Inspiration

00:12 Perfectionism in Autism Parenting

01:14 Building a Supportive Community

04:20 Golf as a Metaphor for Parenting

06:12 Reflecting and Adapting in Parenting

07:56 Admitting Mistakes and Validating Your Child

08:49 Group Therapy and Support Options

09:28 Understanding the Transition to School

09:43 Dealing with Uncertainty and Burnout

10:14 The Power of Flexibility and Collaboration

11:39 Challenging Perfectionism in Parenting

13:02 Navigating the Transition Together

13:22 Golf Analogy: Embracing the Process

14:56 Partnering with Your Child and Yourself

17:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here

⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

184 | respecting autonomy and honoring differences in autism parenting with @sprinkledspectrum Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay welcomes Leila from @sprinkledspectrum to discuss the joys and challenges of parenting autistic children. Leila shares her journey of discovering her children's neurodivergence, the importance of building community, and the value of learning from autistic adults. Together, they emphasize the significance of parent coaching, creating a supportive environment, and respecting children's dignity and autonomy. This episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the autism journey as a family.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast

00:30 Meet Leila from @sprinkledspectrum

00:50 Dr. Tay's Background and Approach

02:07 Leila's Journey and Social Media Presence

04:09 Challenges and Rewards of Sharing Online

05:49 Navigating Different Perspectives in the Autism Community

07:46 Balancing Personal and Family Needs

13:45 Therapy Modalities and Parental Involvement

15:54 Integrating Therapy into Daily Life

20:24 Changing Family Systems: Responding to Meltdowns

21:36 Navigating a Child's Diagnosis

22:58 The Importance of Tailored Support

23:37 Recognizing Unique Needs in Autism

24:22 The Journey to Diagnosis and Acceptance

29:37 Building Community and Finding Support

32:50 Advocating for Dignity and Respect

33:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

38:42 Connecting with the Community

RESOURCES

⚡️ follow Leila @sprinkledspectrum on Instagram and TikTok

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

183 | holistic approaches to co-occurring health conditions in autistic individuals with Dr. Melissa Houser Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay is joined by Dr. Melissa Houser, founder and executive director of All Brains Belong, to discuss co-occurring medical conditions in autistic individuals. The conversation covers Dr. Houser's personal and professional journey, the interconnected nature of conditions like hypermobility, POTS, mast cell activation syndrome, and the importance of holistic and inclusive healthcare. Together, they emphasize the value of community and explore the diverse resources offered by All Brains Belong to support both children and adults. Dr. Houser provides practical advice for parents and professionals seeking to improve care for neurodivergent individuals and shares impactful stories from their work.

00:00 Introduction to Co-Occurring Medical Conditions with Autism

00:50 Meet Dr. Melissa Houser: An Autistic Physician's Journey

01:21 Dr. Tay's Personal and Professional Background

02:29 Dr. Mel's Medical Background and Autism Diagnosis

04:04 The Founding of All Brains Belong

05:19 Challenges in Healthcare for Neurodivergent Individuals

05:40 The Importance of Self-Identification and Formal Evaluation

07:20 Conflicting Access Needs in Neurodivergent Families

07:59 Mission and Impact of All Brains Belong

20:41 Common Co-Occurring Conditions in Autistic Individuals

24:35 Understanding the Cluster of Conditions

25:10 Challenges in Medical Collaboration

25:59 Resources for Patients and Families

27:46 Impact of Long COVID on Neurodivergent Individuals

28:30 Cardiovascular Risks in Autistic Individuals

30:34 Advocacy and Self-Acceptance

37:32 Community Programs and Support

42:55 Final Thoughts and Resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ resources from Dr. Melissa Houser>>

Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic & ADHD Patients - resources for patients & clinicians
Kid & Teen Connections - free customized friend-matching program for ages 4-17 based on shared interests
Brain Club® - weekly virtual community education program for adults

⚡️ keep connecting with Dr. Houser on her website and Instagram @allbrainsbelongvt

⚡️ Zerbo et al. (2015) mentioned on the episode

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

Related Podcasts