Shows
Autism & NeurodiversityEmbracing Neurodivergent Affirming Care: Balancing Acceptance and Practical Support with JasonIf you’ve ever wondered, “How do I support my child’s authentic self while helping them navigate the real world?”—you’re not alone.You’ve heard about neurodivergent affirming care and its emphasis on acceptance, but there’s still a challenge: How do we strike the balance between honoring individuality and addressing the practical demands of life?In this episode, Jason Grygla dives into the complexities of neurodivergent affirming care, exploring both its transformative strengths and potential limitations. You’ll learn:✔ Why affirming care is essential for empowering neurodivergent individuals✔...2025-03-0745 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Calm Before the Storm: Why Emotional Regulation Starts with You with DebbieEver feel like your child’s emotions are a tornado, and you’re just trying to hold on? It’s exhausting, isn’t it?But here’s the truth: the key to helping your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult regulate their emotions starts with your calm. In this episode of Autism & Neurodiversity with Jason & Debbie, I’m sharing why emotional regulation begins with us as parents and how your calm presence can create a ripple effect in your home.If you’ve ever wondered why your best strategies don’t seem to work in the heat of the...2025-01-1717 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhy Waiting for Them to Get Motivated Is a Bad Idea with DebbieEver feel like you’re stuck in a waiting game, hoping your child, teen, or young adult will finally find the motivation to move forward? It’s a common struggle, especially when you’re parenting an autistic and/or neurodivergent, but here’s the hard truth: waiting for motivation is a losing strategy.In this episode of the Autism and Neurodiversity podcast, I’m diving into why waiting for them to get motivated will only make things harder and what they need from you as their parent that is actually helpful.👉 Looking for more support? Join our upco...2024-10-2513 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen High IQ is Part of the Problem with DebbieDoes your brilliant child, teen, or young adult struggle with everyday tasks? It can be incredibly frustrating when they aren’t living up to their IQ potential. Society often equates intelligence with success, but the reality is more complex. Research also shows that those with high IQs have brains that may actually be getting in the way of their success. Tune in as I discuss some of the challenges high IQ neurodivergent young people face and important ways we can better support their development.👉 Looking for more support? Join our upcoming workshop:🌟Work...2024-10-1816 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Critical Role Connection Plays in Supporting Development with Cam Sherman, MA, ACMHCWhat if the key to helping neurodivergent young people thrive isn't about intensive therapies, but something far more fundamental: human connection?Join hosts Jason and Debbie Grygla as they chat with Cam Sherman, the new executive director of the new NeuroDev Raleigh campus (formerly known as TechieForLife), about the transformative power of connection.Discover how building strong, supportive relationships can be the catalyst for personal growth and well-being in neurodivergent individuals.In this episode, you'll learn:Why connection is crucial: Explore the concept of "Belonging to Become" and how a sense of b...2024-09-1337 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDevelopmental Focus: Why It's Important with DebbieHave you ever felt frustrated because you couldn't get your autistic or neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult to do something desirable or stop doing something undesirable?You've tried so many things and it's not working.Many parents and people working with young people get stuck in negative behavioral focused patterns.On today's episode of the Autism & Neurodiversity with Jason & Debbie podcast, I'm talking about why this may be happening and how to shift into a developmental focus... because it can make all the difference.You'll learn:The negative impacts...2024-04-2719 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBig Announcement! Parenting to Mentor with Jason & DebbieFriends, Hello! We've got something exciting to share with you in this episode!You know, parenting can be a rollercoaster, especially when it comes to raising neurodivergent young people. But, guess what? It doesn't have to be a struggle without hope. In today's episode, we're peeling back the curtain on our personal transformation moments and the lessons that have led us to our big announcement this month.Let's dive straight in! We're thrilled to introduce the Parenting to Mentor mini-course – a game-changer designed for parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, and all you amazing helping professionals out th...2024-03-0915 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment & Autism Deep Dive Part 3 with Dr. Jack HinmanEver get discourage with trying to connect with your neurodivergent teen or young adult? You're not alone.This 3-part episode series dives into the crucial, yet often overlooked, link between neurodiversity (like ADHD or autism) and attachment styles.Experts Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and Dr. Jack Hinman, with over 50 years of combined experience, unpack the surprising ways attachment impacts emotional well-being in neurodivergent individuals.The highlights:Unmask some of the mystery: Understand how attachment styles, secure or insecure, can act as a shield or a hurdle for emotional health in teens and y...2024-01-2621 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment & Autism Deep Dive Part 2 with Dr. Jack HinmanEver get discourage with trying to connect with your neurodivergent teen or young adult? You're not alone.This 3-part episode series dives into the crucial, yet often overlooked, link between neurodiversity (like ADHD or autism) and attachment styles.Experts Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and Dr. Jack Hinman, with over 50 years of combined experience, unpack the surprising ways attachment impacts emotional well-being in neurodivergent individuals.The highlights:Unmask some of the mystery: Understand how attachment styles, secure or insecure, can act as a shield or a hurdle for emotional health in teens and y...2024-01-2023 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment & Autism Deep Dive Part 1 with Dr. Jack HinmanEver get discourage with trying to connect with your neurodivergent teen or young adult? You're not alone.This 3-part episode series dives into the crucial, yet often overlooked, link between neurodiversity (like ADHD or autism) and attachment styles.Experts Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and Dr. Jack Hinman, with over 50 years of combined experience, unpack the surprising ways attachment impacts emotional well-being in neurodivergent individuals.The highlights:Unmask some of the mystery: Understand how attachment styles, secure or insecure, can act as a shield or a hurdle for emotional health in teens and y...2024-01-1226 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Steps to Reducing Stress Mini-Series Part 3 with DebbieFeeling the holiday squeeze? The holidays can be magical... and manic, especially when your neurodivergent loved ones are on sensory overload. In this Part 3 of our holiday stress-busting mini-series, we dive deep into the hidden challenges that neurodivergent kids face and uncover a key strategy for calmer holidays or any time for years to come.Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩...2023-12-2913 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Steps to Reducing Stress Mini-Series Part 2 with DebbieFeeling frazzled instead of festive? The holidays bring joy, but for families with neurodivergent children, the season can be a sensory overload meltdown-maker. Part 2 in this mini-series on reducing stress I'll help you understand the hidden challenges that add to stress and one of the keys to calmer holidays or anytime for years to come.Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩...2023-12-2213 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Steps to Reducing Stress Mini-Series Part 1 with DebbieHoliday season is here, bringing festive cheer but also potential meltdowns for families with autistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults. In part one of this mini-series, I have some important perspectives to support you in taking care of yourself and your loved ones so that you can enjoy more of the good stuff over the holidays or anytime. Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content...2023-12-1611 min
Autism & NeurodiversityManaging Our Expectations with JasonParenting is one of those jobs that rarely matches up with our expectations. The challenges of parenting an autistic or neurodivergent is an experience many of us were not well prepared for.Sometimes it's hard to adjust our expectations for what it would be like, what our child would be like, and what our definitions of success look like.If you are feeling disappointed and frustrated, if your relationship with your family is strained, if you often feel unhappiness with your current situation, you will hinder your ability to show up as the parent you...2023-11-2416 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBoost Their Resilience with DebbieIt takes resilience to grow, develop, and be happy and successful in life when we have very real struggles. Resilient children, teens, and young adults are more willing to try things and try at them for longer. Low resilience leads to giving up quickly or even refusing to try.Get some insightful tips on how to foster resilience in your child, teen, or young adult, especially if they are autistic or neurodivergent. Help them embrace failure as a learning opportunity and create a supportive environment where it's safe to experiment and grow.Be sure to f...2023-11-1816 min
Autism & NeurodiversitySupporting the Transition into Adulthood with JasonParenting an autistic and/or neurodivergent child can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. As they transition into adulthood, the question of independence often arises. In this episode, Jason explores practical strategies to help neurodivergent young adults navigate the path to self-reliance. Join him as he delves into essential life skills, self-advocacy, safety considerations, and strategies for overcoming obstacles. He'll also discuss the importance of celebrating milestones and providing ongoing support.Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a...2023-11-1119 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Secret to Building Their Confidence with DebbieDo you want to raise a confident child, teen or young adult? One who is not afraid to take risks, try new things, and perseveres in the face of challenges? When you get skilled at building their self-confidence you can help them be more successful even if they are autistic, an ADHDer or neurodivergent with disabilities that make things extra challenging.Unfortunately, sometimes the harder we try to build their confidence the more it goes down.It's because we're focusing on the wrong things.Discover the secret to building the kind o...2023-11-0417 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen Your Love One Pulls Away with JasonDo you have a teen or young adult in your life who is pulling away from you? If so, you're not alone. Many teens and young adults but especially autistic and neurodivergents go through a phase where they need to distance themselves from their parents in order to grow and develop their own identity.When you understand why neurodivergent young people pull away and have strategies to help them through this process, you can play a vital role in supporting their growth and development and reconnecting.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this epis...2023-10-2712 min
Autism & NeurodiversityCrush Shame & Boost Well-being by Parenting with Empathy with DebbieOur young people, especially our autistic and neurodivergent, thrive when they're met with support and empathy, and spiral down when they're met with shame-based approaches and rejection.It can be challenging to offer empathy, especially when your child, teen, or young adult is behaving negatively or acting out.But empathy is an essential tool for crushing shame and boosting well-being. When you practice empathy, you help your children feel seen, heard, and understood.This can help them to regulate their emotions, develop a sense of self-worth, and overcome challenges.In this...2023-10-2113 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMania and Neurodiversity: What Parents Need to Know with JasonDoes your autistic or neurodivergent loved one swing between manic, over the top, emotions and depression? In this episode, Jason talks about the challenges of extreme swings in emotionally dysregulated states. This can lead to problems in their relationships, at work, and in other areas of their lives. Being more aware of the signs of mania can help us be more effective in supporting the development of emotional regulation skills.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review s...2023-10-1307 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBreaking the Cycle of Shame-based Parenting Approaches with DebbieHave you ever tried to stop yelling at your kids, only to find yourself yelling again? Have you tried rewarding and punishing, but it's not working?If so, you're not alone. Many of us were parented with shame-based approaches, and we may be unintentionally using the same approaches with our own kids. But the research shows that shame-based parenting is ineffective and destructive.In this episode, learn what shame-based parenting is and why it's so harmful How to identify shame-based parenting behaviors in yourself. How to break the cycle of shame-based parenting and start raising...2023-10-0616 min
Autism & NeurodiversityTime Blindness and It's Impact on Connecting Cause and Effect with JasonTime blindness is a common challenge for autistics and neurodivergents. It can make it difficult to estimate how long it will take to complete a task, to plan ahead, and to meet deadlines. This can lead to frustration and anxiety for both parents and their children. Understanding some of the nuances of time blindness can help us develop more supportive strategies.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listen...2023-09-2910 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBoundaries with Love: Fostering Attachment and Autonomy with DebbieHave you ever felt powerless, confused, angry, or resentful because you were struggling to hold healthy boundaries with your child, teen, or young adult? Or maybe you thought you were holding boundaries, but they felt ineffective or even damaging to your relationship?In this episode, I share my insights on how to set healthy boundaries with love, in a way that strengthens your relationship, connection, and attachment, while also fostering healthy autonomy and development.I talk about the importance of boundaries, both for you and your child, as well as the difference between holding healthy...2023-09-2314 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBeyond 'No': Building Stronger Bonds with DebbieLearn how saying 'yes' can strengthen bonds, promote open communication, and guide your child's growth. Discover practical strategies to shift from conflict to connection, leading to empowered, confident kids. Tune in for a fresh perspective on effective parenting.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩 Want more insights and practical tools? Be sure to join our email list for inspiration and updates.🔵 For...2023-08-1812 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMindful Parenting: Embracing Connection as a Practice for Success with DebbieIf you've ever felt stuck in your attempts to build a meaningful bond, Debbie is here to share a powerful tool that can transform your relationship into one of influence and connection. Discover how this tool can lead to better support for your child's success, development, and overall happiness while enhancing the joy and fulfillment you experience in your relationship. Tune in and embark on a path of growth and understanding in your parenting journey.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram. 👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star re...2023-07-2914 min
Autism & NeurodiversityUnraveling the Power of Novelty: How Dopamine Drives Motivation in ADHDers with Jason"How do you motivate them?" It helps to understand dopamine, the neurotransmitter connected with feeling good and motivated. ADHDers have issues with dopamine levels and transmission. They need more support to increase their dopamine. Novelty is a powerful tool that can help.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram. 👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩 Want more insights and practical tools? Be sure to join our email list for inspirati...2023-07-2121 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhat Matters Most with Jason and DebbieAs we celebrate our 100th episode of this podcast, we reflect on our difficult parenting journey and compare what we used to think was most important to what we value now. Join us as we share what we’ve learned matters most.In this episode, you'll be able to:Delve into the power of practicing presence for savoring life’s most precious moments.Explore how nurturing deep relationships can be a fundamental cornerstone in parenting.Get a fresh perspective on the importance of addressing individual needs over conforming to societal norms.Learn the vital role of self...2023-07-0721 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNavigating Through Essential Developmental Experiences with DebbieIt’s tricky to navigate through essential developmental experiences–even more so with autistic or neurodivergent young people. You may even find that you’re sheltering them from those experiences. What if there was another way? A way in which you and your autistic or neurodivergent young person experience less stress and more delight because you’ve been given the tool to do so.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What critical thing you need to do during their development journeyWhat unintended message you might be sendingWhat role autonomy plays in developmentHow to navigate through difficult experien...2023-06-3016 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDecoding Behaviors: Understanding Your Young Adult's Developmental Stage with DebbieIs there a better way to view your child’s development and behavior rather than by age? Do you find yourself getting derailed by your expectations of their behavior and developmental stage? In this episode we explore a supportive lens that facilitates a more positive frame of mind for the expectations you have for your child–a lens which benefits them and you.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What are the clues to different developmental stagesHow to avoid setbacks when interpreting things incorrectlyImportant consideration for different stages of developmentWhat is reflected in their behaviorHaving a fram...2023-06-1726 min
Autism & NeurodiversityEmotion Regulation Skill Development with DebbieEmotional regulation is more than just maintaining a state of calmness. It requires an awareness of self and the ability to connect with others we trust.Another part of emotional regulation is being able to sit in our negative emotions, which are a normal part of the human experience. When we understand that nothing has gone wrong, we are able to develop greater emotion regulation skills.If we model that sadness is bad our children will try to avoid it at all costs. If we label our emotions, rather than avoid them, we are better...2023-05-2726 min
Autism & NeurodiversityCo-regulation Why it Matters When You Parent or Work with Autistic & Neurodivergent Young People with DebbieOur role in co-regulation can have a significant impact on an autistic or neurodivergent’s ability to develop self-regulation skills.Multiple studies suggest this impacts every area of their life and well-being.Are the approaches you’re taking offering co-regulation or co-escalation?This matters!What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why co-regulation matters more than we may realize.What the three developmental stages of self-regulation are and the role caregivers play.How autistic and neurodivergents have extra challenges in developing regulation skills.What approaches you may be using that are actu...2023-05-1218 min
Autism & NeurodiversityOne of the Biggest Barriers to Effective Parenting with DebbieThere are many barriers to effective parenting, but in this episode we’re going to discuss one of the biggest barriers that I frequently coach parents on, judgement. It often causes our neurodivergent loved ones to become stagnant in their progress and stay there. It keeps us as a mentor in a lower brain nervous system state, where worry, fear and anxiety thrive. This often sends our mentee into that same state as well, which in turn prevents them from learning and growing.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How judgment sabotages our mentoring effortsDifferences of lo...2023-03-3113 min
Autism & NeurodiversitySupportive Mentoring Relationships with DebbieWhy is a supportive mentoring relationship so important? One of the most effective ways to connect and garner trust with our autistic or neurodivergent loved one is by developing this type of relationship. Mentoring is more than just words–It is more than advice. As we tune into their individual and unique needs as a mentor we avoid unrealistic expectations and better position ourselves to support their development and overall well-being.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How to build trust with your neurodivergent loved oneWhy hyper-focusing on helping them doesn’t helpImportance of realizing that each...2023-03-1014 min
Autism & NeurodiversityPower Struggles with DebbieAre you parenting from a behavioral or default mode? Is your child behaving or complying out of fear? Are they stuck in a fight-or-flight brain state? Fear and power tactics damage relationships and development in children, especially neurodivergent children. Learn how to parent from a position of connection and collaboration to strengthen your relationship with your child.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Who loses when we engage in power strugglesWhy influence of power is an illusionHow connection and collaboration lead to deeper relationshipsHow to recognize what is actually in your controlWhy power struggles reduce your...2023-02-1714 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHow to Love Parenting Your Autistic or Neurodivergent Young Person with DebbieThe challenges that come with parenting autistic and / or neurodivergents can be hard. There may be things you dislike or even downright hate. It’s hard to show up and parent effectively when we feel this way. What if you could love your parenting experience? Would you show up differently? Be more effective? Learn how to love your experience and show up in a way that supports your neurodivergent’s development and well-being.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What can often happen when you love parenting.One of the biggest things that get in the way...2023-02-0316 min
Autism & NeurodiversityParental Goals Achieved Easier with DebbieIf you want to achieve your parenting goals easier then create a plan to set yourself up for success. Don’t rely on will-power alone. Learn how to have more fun and make it easier to work on your parenting goals.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why relying on your will-power is not an effective way to reach your parenting goals.Why you need to look at the obstacles in the way of your goals.How to go about creating strategies to support yourself in your parenting goals.The biggest obstacle in the way of ac...2023-01-2018 min
Autism & NeurodiversityChoosing Parent / Mentor Goals with DebbieWhen one of the children, teens, or young adult’s you’re parenting or working with is autistic and/or neurodivergent they have higher support needs.Having parental goals is important if you want to meet their needs effectively. We as parents and mentors are the leaders. We choose the direction, focus, and goals. We set the pace, hopefully informed by our families needs and developmental stages.When you’re getting pulled in different directions or there are many things your loved one is struggling with it’s important to have one or two main goals to...2023-01-0615 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHow to Fail for Success with DebbieIf you want the autistic and neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult you parent or work with not to fail, meaning you want them to succeed with their goals, you’ll want to teach and model HOW to fail. The right way to fail. The useful way to fail. How to use fails to succeed. Failing and then shutting down and giving up is a common issue for many or our neurodivergent young people.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why learning how to fail is more important than succeeding.Why failing is an important life sk...2022-12-0213 min
Autism & NeurodiversityShame and Development with DebbieWhen our autistic and neurodivergent young people struggle and get stuck and their development slows or stalls out, there’s one thing that’s usually at the bottom of their struggles. It’s not their neurodivergent brain or their disabilities.It’s shame-based thoughts, stories, and beliefs they’ve internalized. They might pick these up from being a neurodivergent in a neurotypical dominate culture and society. Fails, social struggles and their different developmental timeline can also lead them to beliefs shame-based things about themselves. Even all our efforts to help them can come across like we’re trying to “f...2022-11-1820 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhat You're Doing That's Demotivating Them with DebbieDemotivating is the last thing we want to be doing, but motivation can be a big challenge. We want our autistic and neurodivergent young people to succeed in what their motivated to pursue, create, and do in the world.One of the biggest mistakes parents and mentors make is in how they’re unintentionally demotivating their young person.Learn how to break the pattern that are sabotaging your efforts to support them.What You'll Learn from this Episode:One of the biggest mistakes parents and mentors make.How to stop showing up in...2022-10-1413 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHow to Motivate Autistic and ND Young People with DebbieJason and I get asked all the time, “How do you motivate them?”The short answer is you can’t.But there are things you can do as a parent and mentor to tap into their own desires and support their success while building your relationship in the process.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why many common approaches don’t work.The common assumptions around why our young people perform or don’t perform how we would like.How to tap into long-term motivations.The four things to consider that go beyond mot...2022-09-3021 min
Autism & NeurodiversityGiving Your Best or Burning Yourself Out? with JasonWhen you are parenting or working with autistic and neurodivergent young people there is a line between giving your best and martyring or burning yourself out.Don’t set yourself up for failure.Learn the equation for assessing how much to give and to who.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How to assess the line between giving your best and burning yourself out.The equation for effort and return on investment.How to not set yourself up for failure.Why sacrificing yourself may not get you what you want.Why giving mo...2022-09-2313 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhat Interferes with Development? with DebbieMany of us with good intentions are sabotaging development.Over time, this can be really discouraging when you’ve invested your time, energy, emotions, and even money, and your neurodivergent young person is still struggling and not making much progress.Listen in for one of the biggest things we see that gets in the way of development.What You'll Learn from this Episode:The biggest thing we see that gets in the way of development.Why we don’t develop when we’re in a lower brain / survival state.What we do as par...2022-09-1618 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhat May Be Keeping You From Meeting Them Where They're at with DebbieIf you’ve heard the phrase, “You need to meet them where they’re at,” you may be wondering what it really means and why it’s so important when you’re parenting and mentoring neurodivergent young people.When neurodivergents have developmental challenges and their own unique timelines outside the bell curve of their neurotypical peers, meeting them where they’re at and not where we think they should be or where we would like them to be is how we help them grow.Understanding this and doing it consistently are two different things.What You'll...2022-09-0315 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDon't Make This Mistake When Assessing Development & Expectations with DebbieThere are nuances with assessing someone’s capabilities that many people miss.In this episode, I share one of the common ways we assess that’s causing lots of frustration and disappointment. It sets us up for unfair and dishonest expectations.It can also hinder development. Listen in for what it is and what you’ll want to do instead.What You'll Learn from this Episode:The assessment measure that mistakenly sets you up for inaccurate expectations.Why it’s not a good indicator of development.What is a better indicator of developm...2022-08-2015 min
Autism & NeurodiversityEmotional Dysregulation with DebbieEmotional dysregulation is a core symptom of ADHD and Autism.In this episode, Debbie discusses why neurodivergents are more likely to get emotionally dysregulated, what approach supports emotional regulation, and how we play a role in emotional regulation.Debbie also discusses what you need to detach from to create more attachment and improve your relationship with your child, teen, or young adult.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why neurodivergents have more difficulty emotionally regulating.Why their emotional dysregulation is not their fault and they aren’t being “bad.”How behavioral compliance approa...2022-07-1722 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMentor Better by Self-Mentoring with DebbieTo effectively and sustainably parent, teach, coach, or work with autistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults, you want to be showing up from a higher brain state not a stressed lower brain state.Self-mentoring is a simple and profound tool to help you engage and recharge your brain so you can access your own wisdom, intuition, and resourcefulness to better mentor and support neurodivergent young people.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What self-mentoring is and why it’s worth your time.How it’s different than a daily meditation practice.What happ...2022-07-0217 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAutism Suicide Support with Jason*Trigger warning, specific talk about suicide.Autism suicide or talk of suicide is a difficult topic that comes up for many autistic and neurodivergent young people.The rates of suicide are higher in the neurodivergent population than among neurotypicals.We are sorry if you are having to deal with suicide or the possibility of it in someone you love.Our goal of this podcast is to support you and the autistic and/or neurodivergent young people you care about.So in this episode, Jason offers his insights and perspectives...2022-06-2542 min
Autism & NeurodiversityEnjoy Parenting with DebbieParenting or working with an autistic and/or neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult comes with challenges.I want you to enjoy your experience more. I want to support you in showing up as the parent and supporter you want to be.You don’t have to wait for things to get better, for your young person to change, or for people to give you the support you need to enjoy things now.Listen in, to find out what I’m talking about.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why wait...2022-06-1814 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDepression in Autistic and Neurodivergent Young People with JasonDepression in autistic and neurodivergent young people and how to effectively treat it, has not been studied as extensively as in the general neurotypical population.There a some common misunderstandings about what depression is and isn’t, what causes it, and what helps it especially for neurodivergents.In this episode, Jason offers some important things to understand about depression and especially how it effects autistic and neurodivergent young people and what they need to overcome it, the role of counseling, medications and the mentors in their lives.This is an important topic to un...2022-05-2225 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAutistic Female Diagnosis with Ingrid BovedaThe male to female ratio of autism diagnosis is approximately 4:1. The diagnostic criteria is based primarily on male samples and does not account for how females present. This may be contributing to late and under-diagnosis in females.Dr. Ingrid Boveda recently presented her findings on autistic females at a conference we attended and we’re excited for you to hear from her.We discuss the differences in behavior for females and tips for better supporting autistic females. This one is not to be missed.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why the nu...2022-05-1342 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMaking Support Decisions with DebbieWhen you have a neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult, it can be challenging to figure out what supports and accommodations are helpful or needed.Whether you are completely new to this with a fresh neurodivergent diagnosis or you’ve been at this a while, I have some perspectives to offer you on this episode to help you approach these decisions with more confidence.Because I know it can be overwhelming to either know where to start or what to do when you and they are struggling.What You'll Learn from this Episode:...2022-05-0822 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAvoiding Burnout with JasonAutistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults need us for the long-haul.When you’re a parent, caregiver, or mentor in some capacity it can be easy to get burned out.In this episode, Jason dives in to one of the biggest contributors to burning out for him and offers some tips for combating it.What You'll Learn from this Episode:One of the big causes of burnout for parents, caregivers, and mentors of autistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults and why it leads to burnout.One of the bi...2022-04-2935 min
Autism & NeurodiversityYour Job is to Meet Your Child with Karen MabieParenting a neurodivergent young person into adulthood can be a messy and challenging process.We appreciate Karen coming on our show and sharing her perspectives and insights as an educational consultant and mother to an autistic adult daughter.She is passionate about helping young people, and her perspectives from her professional and personal experiences can help us better support our neurodivergent young people and avoid some of the common pitfalls.Karen is someone who “tells it like it is” and knows what she is talking about. Some great gems of wisdom you won’t want...2022-04-2243 min
Autism & NeurodiversityStressed Parenting with DebbieThere are plenty of things to get stressed about when you are parenting a neurodivergent young person.The extra support demands, the crisis that pop up, the unmet expectations and societal judgements, and our own lack of self care to name a few.When we’re stressed it’s hard to show up as the parent we want to be. I want you to know you don’t have to continue parenting like that. Listen in to learn how to ease your suffering.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why when we’ve been...2022-04-1518 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHelping Neurodivergents Develop Their Spark with JasonHow do you know you’ve done your job to help your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult develop?We don’t necessarily know what their full capabilities and disabilities will be.In this episode, Jason talks about what it can take to help someone with neurodivergent disabilities develop and live their best life.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How to know if you’ve done your job.How to help them self-spark.The Autism Triad and its implications.What age neurodivergents often hit their stride.What to assess.Feat...2022-04-0815 min
Autism & Neurodiversity51. Turn Fails into Wins with DebbieDo you feel like you struggle and fail a lot as a parent? Or do you watch your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult suffer through fails over and over again?How we respond to these fails can actually support development or hinder it making things so much harder.You really can turn fails into amazing wins. Listen in to learn what I mean by this and start experiencing more developmental wins.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What a real failure is.Where to find the wins.Why your response to...2022-04-0118 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen to Remove Yourself from The Equation with JasonAre you making things worse by trying to be an involved parent of your neurodivergent teen or young adult?It can be tricky when they are neurodivergent and still need supports but also want to be more independent.If you stay in the parent roll and try to keep them in a child roll you may ultimately be doing more harm than good.It may be time to remove yourself from the parent/child equation.In this episode, Jason explains unhelpful parent/child dynamics that can do damage to your relationship...2022-03-1828 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBuilding Connection with DebbieDo you sometimes have a hard time connecting with your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult? Whether you’re neurotypical or neurodivergent yourself, there are many things that might be getting in the way of connection -positive connection that is foundational to effective parenting and mentoring.Listen in as I discuss one of the biggest things that gets in the way of connecting and some simple things you can do to open up your connection despite all the challenges.What You'll Learn from this Episode:The foundation to effective parenting and mentoring.Why it ca...2022-03-1121 min
Autism & NeurodiversityCollege Readiness with Eric Endlich Ph.D.College readiness is not the same thing as college capable. There is an important difference between these, and there are specific skills necessary to be college ready. When you look at preparing your neurodivergent teen for college and independence you’ll want to make sure you are focusing on these, too.Listen in on our discussion with Eric (who is autistic himself) as we talk about what parents can focus on to prepare their neurodivergent teens for making the transition to college or independence. It’s an exciting time for a young person and college offers many bene...2022-03-0443 min
Autism & NeurodiversityParental Anxiety with DebbieAre you a worrier? Anxious? Do you worry about your autistic or neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult? Worrying is exhausting! It feels terrible! If you’re ready to get off the worry bus and experience more well-being in your life, and parent with confidence, give this episode a listen.Debbie explains why worry is not helping you support your child’s development, and may be adding stress to the challenges they already have. There are reasons why we worry and some basic things we can do to shift out of worry and mode.What You...2022-02-2520 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNew Diagnosis- Now What? with JasonReceiving a neurodivergent diagnosis can be confusing.Especially when you get it later in your life as a teen or adult.You may not know how you feel about it or what it means.In this episode, Jason has some perspectives to share with you to help you going forward.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What a diagnosis means and what it doesn’t mean.Why having a neurodivergent brain can cause you disability in a society designed for neurotypicals.How to go about getting the support you need.How...2022-02-1831 min
Autism & NeurodiversityGetting a Diagnosis with JasonDo you have hesitations around getting your child, teen, or young adult evaluated or diagnosed?Are you worried it will put them in a box? Or they will use it as a crutch? Are you against the idea of your child, tee, or young adult being labeled?In this episode, Jason addresses some of the common concerns and explains why the pros far outweigh any perceived cons.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Reasons to consider getting diagnosed or not.Why the pros of getting assessed far outweigh any cons.Does getting...2022-01-2827 min
Autism & NeurodiversityProblem Perspectives with DebbieLife is full of problems and parenting a neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult offers some unique ones.In this episode, I share a different way to look at problems that helps you tap into your best problem solving mode.I also explain why the way you view negative behaviors may be adding to your struggles instead of alleviating them.What You'll Learn from this Episode:A more helpful way to view problems.Why it’s important to understand how problems are communicated.Why negative behaviors are not THE problem and what th...2022-01-2218 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Gifts of Different Brains with DebbieWith a neurodivergent brains, there are inherent weaknesses and different timelines for development than typical brains.Neurodivergent young people struggle with some things that typical brained peers don’t struggle with or have figured out much earlier in their development.There are also gifts that come from having a neurodivergent brain or raising a neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult. Putting more focus on these gifts helps us see the struggles in a new light.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why strengths and weaknesses are often different sides of the same co...2021-12-2411 min
Autism & NeurodiversityFinding Joy with JasonHow can you find more joy? In this episode, Jason takes a deep dive into the difference between joy and happiness, and how it plays into our relationships with ourselves and others.For neurodivergent children, teens, and adults who sometimes struggle with relationships and connecting, Jason offers some helpful perspectives to find more joy in your relationships with yourself and others.What You'll Learn from this Episode:The difference between joy and happiness.The law of decreasing returns.How to not just be a “human doing.”How to better connect in our relationships.How to i...2021-12-1826 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNavigating Holidays & Big Events with DebbieHolidays and big events should be fun, right? What’s not to love- family, friends, food, festivities, breaks from routines, changing things up, maybe some travel, lots of stimulation, high expectations… Oh wait!No wonder some kids, teens, and young adults, especially neurodivergent ones, struggle, get overwhelmed by it all, or even have melt downs. In this episode, I share some perspectives and tips for having a more positive experience. It’s my holiday gift to you.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How you can have a more positive experience with your neurodivergent child...2021-12-1115 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBeing Supportive Vs Enabling with Vashti SummervillAre you being supportive or enabling? It’s sometimes hard as a parent finding a balance between helpful support and enabling where we intervene so much that we hinder our child’s development and growth.It gets even more challenging when you’re parenting an autistic or neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult who often needs more support than other typical children or needs that support for a longer time.In this episode, you’re going to enjoy listening to our chat with Vashti, parent coach and therapeutic educational consultant, about effective ways to support developm...2021-12-0353 min
Autism & NeurodiversityParental Boundaries with DebbieYou may have a neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult with a pretty negative attitude. You might be feeling really negative about things yourself. In this episode, I offer perspectives on what may contribute to all the negativity.I offer an easy and effective way to counteract it and why you would want to besides just feeling better.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What may contribute to you or your child’s negativity.What negativity bias is and why our brains have it.Why negativity bias may be accentuated for neurodivergent children, teen, an...2021-11-2625 min
Autism & NeurodiversityTherapy or Development? Doing Better for Neurodivergent Who Struggle with Jason & DebbieJoin us as we share the recording of a presentation we gave at the Independent Educational Consultant’s Association (IECA) 2021 Fall Conference.It’s time to rethink interventions for those who are Neurodivergent (ND). ND diagnoses are swelling, shifting, and crystalizing.The latest research is giving better perspectives on why ND diagnoses are developmental differences and not mental health issues.Those who serve this population already know that although anxiety and depression are common, the root cause is not the same as “typicals.”Historically, ND individuals have been directed into the treatmen...2021-11-1931 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhat Main Goal of Interventions Should Be with JasonThe main goal of common interventions for neurodivergent clients often misses the mark. Counseling, medications, and behavioral interventions can support neurodivergent clients, but they rarely address the primary goal and often do harm when used inappropriately.In this episode, Jason shares his perspectives on what the goal should be, some pros and cons of classical interventions, and how to better address the main goal more effectively.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What the main goal of interventions should be for neurodivergent clients.When classical interventions can be helpful and harmful.The problem with...2021-11-0623 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBuilding Resilience with DebbieWe’re all hearing talk of the importance of developing resilience. Neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults often lack as much resilience as their neurotypical peers.They’re also more prone to feeling stressed than their neurotypical peers when faced with similar events or circumstances. While these sensitivities can be a strength in some situations, it can also lead to overwhelm and shutting down.So, what can you do to help your loved one or mentee build resilience? Listen in as I share some key things to help them turn those moments of stress into grow...2021-10-3020 min
Autism & NeurodiversitySupporting Forward Momentum with DebbiePast problems and old resentments can block our ability to support forward momentum for our autistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults.In this episode, I encourage you to take a look at the stories you’re telling.Make peace with your past to free up time and energy for what’s in front of you in the present, and break out of old, unhelpful patterns.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Ways you can make peace with the past while still acknowledging the difficulties you’ve gone through.What will keep y...2021-10-0316 min
Autism & NeurodiversityParent or Partner? How Are We in the Relationship Equation? with JasonIf you never intentionally make the shift from the parent role to the partner role, it is highly likely the neurodivergent young adult you’re trying to help and support will struggle to shift out of the child role.In this episode, Jason explains what transactional analysis is and makes recommendations for how to better support their transition into adulthood.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why the parent/child relationship needs to shift if you want to better support your neurodivergent (ND) young adult in their adulting process.How you can apply the co...2021-09-1734 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBreak Out of the Micromanaging Parent Role with DebbieIf you find yourself doing a lot of exhausting micromanaging of your neurodivergent child, teen or young adult this episode is for you.There may be many reasons you fall into that parenting style and I offer some insights and tips to help you break out the micromanaging trap that isn’t serving you or your child’s development well.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why you may want to move out of the micromanaging parent role.What may be keeping you stuck in it when you want to stop.What you want to a...2021-09-1028 min
Autism & NeurodiversityRigid Thinking with DebbieSo many of our neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults are rigid thinkers or have areas they get stuck and inflexible around. It’s often frustrating as a parent or mentor to bump up against that rigidity and not be able to influence or get through to our kids especially when they’re really struggling.In this episode, I offer some insights to help you navigate rigidity and more effectively support growth and development.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What mental rigidity is, and what it looks like in our neurodivergent young people.Why...2021-08-2717 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Power of Frontloading with Jason & DebbieFront-loading is an effective tool for supporting development and growth in our neurodivergent children, teens and young adults.We took our neurodivergent NeuroDev students on our annual river rafting trip near Moab, Utah this week. It went smoothly and was a great success. No drama! We can’t say that about previous years.One reason this trip was so successful this year was due to all the front-loading we did in preparation.In this episode, we explain what front-loading is, why it’s so helpful, and how to do it effectively.What...2021-08-1331 min
Autism & NeurodiversityUnderstanding Anger with JasonAnger can be destructive and hurt relationships. In this episode, Jason explains how anger is a secondary emotion and what emotion is underneath it.He gives tips on how to manage our own anger and how you can mentor neurodivergent young people when they’re angry using a relationship building versus behavioral approach.Connecting and meeting needs is so much more important than trying to control behaviors.Learning to manage our own anger and mentoring others on how to manage theirs is a valuable skill to develop and well worth the effort....2021-08-0634 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen They're Not Motivated with DebbieWhat do you do when your child, teen, or young adult has no motivation to do their homework, help out around the house, have good hygiene, eat healthy, or any of the other less fun but necessary parts of life?Listen in as Debbie explains why the typical approaches don’t work in the long-term and what actually does. Debbie also offers four strategies to tap in to your child’s intrinsic motivation for long-term growth and success.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why it’s important to question whether it’s a motivati...2021-07-1843 min
Autism & NeurodiversityTutoring to Turn Learning Challenges into Achievements with Laura ReberIn this episode, we talk with Laura, the creator of ProgressParade.com, a website that matches neurodivergent students with expert learning specialists for online special education tutoring so learning challenges can turn into life-changing achievements.Jason and I talk a lot about the benefits of focusing on the other areas of development, not just academics, but we brought Laura on because finding good support for areas of academic weakness and figuring that piece out helps free kids up to get their social and emotional needs met.Laura explains the problems that come up with a “wa...2021-07-0240 min
Autism & NeurodiversityOCD & Neurodiversity with JasonWith the high prevalence of neurodivergent individuals also having Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), it’s critical to understand what it is, what it isn’t, and how to manage it.In this episode, Jason explains OCD, why it’s different from the repetitive Autistic behavior called stemming, and why it’s important to understand the root causes. Jason shares the key to knowing how to manage OCD, helpful tips, and the one thing to never do.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is, and it’s prevalence with neurodiversity and Autism...2021-06-2542 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHow to Know If You're Parenting Too Much or Too Little with DebbieIt can be really challenging to know if we’re parenting too much or too little. Especially when we have a son or daughter, that’s neurodivergent and has some developmental delays or extra challenges. When your child enters the adulting transition, it can get even more complicated.How much should we support and how much should we back off? What’s helpful and what’s not. Too little support and management may hinder their progress because they don’t have what they need. Too much support and management can also impede their growth and development.In this...2021-06-1932 min
Autism & NeurodiversityParental Healing with Travis SlagleWe appreciate Travis Slagle, the Clinical Director at Evoke Therapy Intensives, for coming on our show for an in-depth discussion about effective parenting and healing ourselves.Parenting is challenging, especially if we haven’t worked through our own issues. Parenting a neurodivergent child often adds additional stressors into the mix, bringing our personal issues into the equation.We go into specifics of how that can look and feel in our parenting versus what effective parenting looks like even when we make mistakes, don’t have the answers, or face unsolvable problems.We talk with...2021-06-0445 min
Autism & NeurodiversityPhysical Health & Hygiene Challenges with JasonWhy is maintaining good physical health and hygiene such an issue for some autistic and neurodivergent young people? In this episode, Jason gets real about the challenges and negative outcomes some of them experience.This is not an easy or fun topic to discuss but it’s a relevant one and the struggle is real!Jason offers insights into understanding what may be behind hygiene resistance and poor health choices. He also shares his experience and perspectives on how to support good health and hygiene and especially what not to do.What You'll Le...2021-05-2831 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNurturing Neurodivergent Tech Talent with Eric PedersenThis week, we sat down with our friend Eric to discuss ways to nurture tech talent among our neurodivergent young people. Eric Pedersen, is the Dean of Science, Engineering, and Technology at Dixie State University in Southern Utah. He sits on the board of several technology companies, and is a founding partner at our program for neurodivergent young adults, NeuroDev.Eric gets candid about the patterns he sees among neurodivergent students and what supports they need to help them be successful not only at college but also in the workforce. We discuss how to improve chances of...2021-05-2130 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Ways to Parent with Confidence Part 3 with DebbieParenting and especially parenting neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults can get really challenging. For Part 3 of Parenting with Confidence, I share a simple yet effective tool and process to help you have the confidence to weather the inevitable bumps and challenges that come with parenting.Join me as I encourage you to examine where you focus your time and energy and consider if it’s actually in areas you have control over or not.I explain what area of parenting is always my top priority over everything else and how you can use the to...2021-05-1520 min
Autism & NeurodiversityLearning to Cope with Dalton & Lee GryglaWe invited our two oldest boys to come on our show, and they both quickly agreed to. We didn’t even have to bribe them or twist their arms.We adopted Dalton and Lee from foster care a couple months before they turned 7 & 8. They experienced a lot of abuse and neglect and were bounced around from group homes to foster homes before they landed with us- two young and inexperienced parents at the time, doing our best to love them and give them a good home.In our chat, they open up about some of th...2021-05-0744 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDiscomfort and Motivation with JasonHelping our neurodivergent kiddos have the motivation to do things outside their comfort zone is a challenge for parents and mentors. In this episode, Jason draws on examples from mentoring students at NeuroDev to illustrate balancing discomfort with growth, building relationships of influence, and the most effective way to promote change.We all have an innate desire to grow and progress, but we also like to be comfortable. Our brains like to keep things easy and efficient, but when there’s too much comfort for too long, we stop growing. We become stuck. We lose our motivation fo...2021-05-0133 min
Autism & NeurodiversityEmployment Resources With Betina WildhaberBetina, the author and creator of neurodiversitynetwork.net, joins us on this episode to share about her work to make educational and employment services more accessible.Hear about the simple things employers are doing to improve hiring practices, provide better support, and increase neurodivergent employee retention.Betina also shares tips and resources for neurodivergent job seekers to better prepare for and obtain employment.,What You'll Learn from this Episode:Ways to connect neurodivergent job seekers, and employers open to hiring neurodivergent employees.What employers are doing to adjust and open up employment...2021-04-2351 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Ways to Parent With Confidence Part 2 With DebbieIn part two of Parenting With Confidence, Debbie explains why you may get such mixed results from parenting strategies you’ve tried.Our best parenting comes from high-quality relationships that start with us, which is great news because it’s not dependent on our child’s behavior.You’ll understand why the tool Debbie shares in this episode is so important and how to model and teach it to your neurodivergent son or daughter.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What’s behind the failures or mixed results of many common parenting strategies...2021-04-1722 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNeuroDev Graduates Discuss ADHDIn this episode, Jason and Debbie invited two of NeuroDev’s graduates to talk about their experiences growing up and coping with their ADHD and ADD diagnosis. They share some of their struggles, what was helpful, what would have been more helpful in school, and advice and tips for other neurodivergent young people.What You'll Learn from this Episode:The challenges and benefits of being able to hyper-focus on areas that interest them.Tips for managing perfectionistic tendencies.What did they hate about school and what would have been helpful for teachers to do.Why Reid’s ba...2021-04-0931 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Ways to Parent With Confidence Part 1 With DebbieIn part one of parenting with confidence, Debbie talks about what parenting with confidence looks like and where that confidence needs to come from to actually be helpful when you need it the most.When you love your kiddos you want to show up as your best self. Listen in to this episode to hear a simple way to practice getting into a confident and secure state of being whether you are parenting a toddler or a teen who is struggling.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Where your confidence needs to come from...2021-03-1923 min
Autism & NeurodiversityA Parenting Journey With Patricia & MaximilianHave you ever felt like you were a bad mom or dad? Have you ever had a professional tell you your child is normal and he will “grow out of it?”We’re delighted to share with you this conversation we had with Patricia & Maximilian. They’ve been happily married for over 30 years and are both professionals with a business background.They’re also the parents of a young adult who is twice exceptional: extremely intelligent and creative on the one hand and high functioning autistic with anxiety and OCD on the other hand.Their so...2021-02-2642 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDropping the Ball with DebbieLife can feel like one big juggling act, especially when you’re parenting a neurodivergent son or daughter. Do you ever “drop the ball” sometimes or… a lot of the time?If you ever think it’s too much and feel overwhelmed, this episode is for you.I share a simple way to lessen your stress and free yourself up to not only enjoy parenting, but your life more.What You'll Learn from this Episode:One of the biggest things that contributes to parental overwhelm.A helpful way to evaluate your priorities.How to fre...2021-02-1925 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHigh School Re-do & Developmental Stages Part 2 with JasonIn part 2, Jason continues to draw from a presentation he gave at a Young Adult Transition Association (YATA) conference.Jason gets to the heart of why we need to throw out the usual timelines for neurodivergent teens and young adults and makes the case for a high school re-do.He shares the short list he uses at NeuroDev as a barometer of where a student is at and offers four ways to motivate a teen or young adult to get their unmet and underdeveloped needs met.Those needs go far beyond just educational...2021-02-0544 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAdult Transition Planning with Joanna LilleyWe’re so happy Joanna came by for another visit at our school, NeuroDev. Joanna has her own podcast ‘Success Is Subjective’ that we enjoy listening to that you’ll want to check out, too. So, of course, we asked her to be a guest on our podcast and record an episode while she was with us.Joanna is a Treatment Placement and Therapeutic Gap Year Consultant, who helps young adults and their families during the important transition time into adulthood.Along with the many challenges of neurodivergent parenting, are the worrisome questions surrounding what will hap...2021-01-2943 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHigh School Re-dos & Developmental Stages Part 1 with JasonIn Jason’s first solo episode, he draws from a presentation he gave at a previous Young Adult Transition Association (YATA) conference. He has found one of the most successful treatments for the neurodivergent young adult population has nothing to do with treatment.He goes into detail about the developmental model as it applies to neurodivergent young people. This understanding gives important insights into how to better influence children. It also helps you to be ready for which developmental stage that delays really become apparent.This part 1 episode sets the stage for what a high sc...2021-01-2230 min
Autism & NeurodiversitySafe Struggle with Nichol ErnstWe are delighted to have Nichol, the Executive Director of Summit Achievement wilderness therapy program in Stow, ME, on our show. He is truly someone who “gets it” and does great work with autistic and neurodivergent clients. Nichol shares some great nuggets of insight and approaches like the concept of “safe struggle” from his experience working with this population that you will want to start using.If you are unfamiliar with what wilderness programs are, this is a great introduction to one of the best for serving our communities’ young people. We discuss when a wilderness therapy program is...2021-01-1551 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNeurodivergent Parenting with DebbieIn this first solo episode with Debbie, she talks about some of the challenges in neurodivergent parenting. You love your son or daughter and want them to be happy. You want the best for them, but it's hard to figure it out what to do.There's a lot of conflicting advice and approaches out there. How do you know if you're doing it right? How do you know what's going to help your loved one?Listen in as she points out from personal experience what positive results really boil down to- every time....2021-01-0813 min
Autism & NeurodiversityRewriting the Narrative for Neurodivergent FamiliesFriend hello, and welcome to this first episode of Autism & Neurodiversity with your hosts, Jason and Debbie!In this episode, we're inviting you into our personal journey of raising neurodivergent kids who have experienced trauma, and how that led us to develop Neuro-Developmental Mentoring, or NDM for short. We'll share how the amazing breakthroughs in neurodiversity research have helped us better understand and nurture our children's growth and how they can help you too.As we navigated the complexities of raising neurodivergent kids, we realized that traditional approaches weren't always enough. That's why we created...2021-01-0111 min