In this episode, we’re in the library where I had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Wendela Marsh for the second time on Autism Blueprint. Dr. Wendy shared valuable insights on the significance of person-first language and the evolution of her book series, “Adulting While Autistic.” We delved into the challenges faced by autistic adults living independently. Join us as we embark on a journey of understanding and acceptance with Wendy’s compassionate and inclusive perspective on supporting the neurodivergent community.

In this episode you will discover

• Her new book, “Independent Living While Autistic.” and discusses the importance of person-first language.
• The four main challenging areas of living for autistic individuals.
• Wendy explains the use of fictional characters in the book to illustrate different issues.
• Wendy discusses the concept of masking in autism and its impact on individuals.
• Wendy addresses common misconceptions about late-diagnosed autistics.
• Wendy highlights the sensory, social, and communication challenges faced by autistic individuals in the workplace.
• Her vision for the SWAN Church project and its purpose.

Meet Dr. Wendy

Wendela Whitcomb Marsh is an award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and autism expert specializing in late-diagnosed autism. She is also the founder and CEO of Adult Autism Assessment & Services, a neurodiversity-affirming group practice providing assessment for autism and ADHD, counseling, and life coaching, nationwide. Her books include Recognizing Autism in Women and Girls, and the series, Adulting While Autistic.

Links Discussed on the Show

Previous episode with Dr. Marsh:

Autism In Women and Girls | Why it’s so hard to get a diagnosis

https://WendelaWhitcombMarsh.com
https://AdultAutismAssessment.com
https://theSWANchurch.org

NDN: NeuroDivergent News monthly e-newsletter with Galaxy Trek Quiz https://go2.bucketquizzes.com/sf/3735b757

FREE MOM HUGS

Dr. Wendy’s Books

Listen to this episode:

The post Independent Living While Autistic | A roadmap to success with Dr. Wendy Marsh appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, Janeen welcomes Dr. Sourav Sengupta, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, to discuss important topics related to children’s mental health. The conversation delves into the role of medication in treatment, the importance of untangling complex stories, and the significance of working with systems to support children with emotional challenges. Dr. Sourav also introduces Hopscotch Play, an innovative online platform designed to enhance therapy sessions for children and families. Join us as we explore the intersection of mental health, therapy, and support for neurodivergent children and their families.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• The role of a child and adolescent psychiatrist in supporting children with mental health challenges
• Factors to consider when deciding on therapy and medication for children
• The importance of understanding the signs that indicate a child may need therapy or medication
• Discussion on holistic modalities and evidence-based approaches in child psychiatry
• Medication options for neurodivergent and autistic populations, including considerations and risks
• Understanding co-occurring disorders and their impact on children with autism
• Introduction to the Hopscotch Play platform for therapists and families

Meet Dr. Sourav Sengupta

Dr. Sourav Sengupta currently serves as the Program Director for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellow at Jacobs School of Medicine as well as the Chief Clinical Officer at Hopscotch. He serves as Co-Chair of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry’s Committee on Collaborative and Integrated Care, and has consulted with healthcare organizations across the country to establish successful behavioral health integration programs. After graduating from Duke University, Dr. Sengupta completed the joint MD/MPH program at Tufts University. He did his adult and child psychiatry training at the Western Psychiatric Hospital at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

This episode is sponsored by Hopscotch Play

Get a 7 day free trial and 20% off your first month by clicking any of the links on this page or use the code blueprint at checkout.

This isn’t just another digital tool; it’s a carefully crafted platform, designed by child mental health experts and therapists. Hopscotch Play brings a rich library of over 40 therapeutic contents right to your fingertips. From interactive games that captivate and educate, to stories that teach emotional regulation and social skills, it’s everything we’ve been looking for to make our sessions more effective and engaging. Plus, with customizable session plans and progress tracking, it’s never been easier to tailor therapy to each child’s unique journey.

Listen to this episode:

The post When Is It Time For Meds? | Medication Myths & Realities from a child psychiatrist|A conversation with Dr. Sourav Sengupta of Hopscotch Play appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Today I am joined by the insightful and compassionate Katherine Scott, a licensed marriage and family therapist at our private practice. Known for her expertise in working with neurodivergent individuals, Katherine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussions.

In today’s episode, we explore the complex dynamics of needs versus wants, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum. So, grab a seat on Miss Kat’s Couch, as we unravel the intricacies of navigating needs and wants in neurodivergent relationships. Let’s dive in!

In This Episode You Will Discover

• Theme of the Episode: In this episode, we explore the theme of needs versus wants, particularly focusing on the struggles faced by neurodivergent individuals in identifying and advocating for their needs.
• Insights Shared: Katherine and Janeen discuss the importance of recognizing and validating the needs of neurodivergent individuals, as well as the impact of societal norms and family dynamics on understanding and meeting these needs.
• Key Points Discussed:
• The significance of creating a safe space for discussing needs within families and relationships.
• The role of sensory needs in regulating emotions and behaviors for neurodivergent individuals.
• Strategies for parents to navigate and address the needs of their neurodivergent children while also honoring their own needs.
• Takeaways:
• Understanding the importance of holding space for both individual and shared needs within families.
• Embracing the art of compromise and validation in addressing conflicting needs within relationships.
• Recognizing the power of boundaries in supporting neurodivergent individuals in expressing and advocating for their needs.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Click here to meet Katherine Scott

Katherine Scott, M.Ed/Ed.S, LMFT

Kat’s PDF’s for parents:

Coping Tools and Techniques HANDOUT 

Deep Pressure Exercises HANDOUT

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Our Sponsors

Ever wished for a space where Neurodivergents and parents could come together, away from the chaos of the world?  Well, it’s here! The EndeeSphere App is our safe harbor. 

It’s more than an app; it’s a community for us, by us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, pre-diagnosis, or anywhere on your journey, this is where you belong. 

If you want clarity, direction, support, and to feel unstuck in navigating your life and journey – this structured support app is absolutely for you!

 Why EndeeSphere? It’s a space dedicated to our needs, offering support, guidance, and connection in a world that often overlooks us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, or just starting your journey, EndeeSphere is here for you.

 Premium Membership Perks:

• Group coaching tailored for carers and adults.
• Downloadable neuro-affirming resources.
• Structured content flow for consistent growth and wins.

The best part? It’s FREE to download!  But, the real magic is in the premium membership. Group coaching, neuro-affirming guides, meditations, and so much more for just £4.99/month or £39.99/year – that’s as little as £0.77 or $1 a week!  (That’s around $6/month or $49/year in American dollars.)

I’m an EndeeSphere Ambassador, and using my link below not only gets you in but supports my journey too. Let’s navigate this together. Join us now! 

Listen to this episode

The post Understanding Neurodivergent Needs | A conversation with Miss Kat | with Katherine Scott, LMFT appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In today’s episode, we’re traveling overseas to chat with a special guest, Jude Morrow, a renowned autism advocate and author. Jude shares his personal journey from the medical model of disability to the neurodiversity lens, and how it has shaped his work in advocating for the rights and dignity of neurodivergent individuals.

We discuss the importance of embracing neurodiversity, the challenges faced by autistic women and girls in obtaining accurate diagnoses, and the need for a shift in language and perception surrounding autism and intellectual disability.

Jude also introduces us to the EndeeSphere app, a revolutionary social media platform designed to connect and support parents of neurodivergent children and neurodivergent adults. He highlights the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for like-minded individuals to share experiences, gain knowledge, and improve mental health.

So sit back, relax, and join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the world of neurodiversity and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of every individual.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• Jude’s Books and Accidental Entry into Autism Advocacy 
• Shift in Attitudes Towards Autism and Neurodiversity
• Challenges with Access to Autism Therapies
• Importance of Autistic Voices in Advocacy
• The Impact of Labeling and Language on Identity
• Challenging the Concept of “Disordered” Individuals
• Recognizing and Supporting Intellectual Disability
• The Importance of Inclusive Support for All Neurodivergent Individuals
• The Purpose and Benefits of the EndeeSphere App

Our Sponsors

Ever wished for a space where Neurodivergents and parents could come together, away from the chaos of the world? Well, it’s here! The EndeeSphere App is our safe harbor.

It’s more than an app; it’s a community for us, by us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, pre-diagnosis, or anywhere on your journey, this is where you belong.

If you want clarity, direction, support, and to feel unstuck in navigating your life and journey – this structured support app is absolutely for you!

Why EndeeSphere? It’s a space dedicated to our needs, offering support, guidance, and connection in a world that often overlooks us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, or just starting your journey, EndeeSphere is here for you.

Premium Membership Perks:

• Group coaching tailored for carers and adults.
• Downloadable neuro-affirming resources.
• Structured content flow for consistent growth and wins.

The best part? It’s FREE to download! But, the real magic is in the premium membership. Group coaching, neuro-affirming guides, meditations, and so much more for just £4.99/month or £39.99/year – that’s as little as £0.77 or $1 a week! (That’s around $6/month or $49/year in American dollars.)

I’m an EndeeSphere Ambassador, and using my link below not only gets you in but supports my journey too. Let’s navigate this together. Join us now!

Sometimes the journey to well-being feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. Welcome to the peer network, where connection meets compassion through telehealth peer support. At the peer network, their certified peer support specialists are more than just trained professionals. They are individuals who have walked their own path of recovery and resilience. They understand, because they’ve been there.

Imagine having someone who listens relates and supports you through your unique challenges whether it’s managing stress, navigating life, transitions, or fostering mental wellness. Their peer support is here for you accessible from the comfort of your home their telehealth platform brings you a personalized support experience it’s confidential, flexible and centered around your needs and schedule.

It’s time to embrace a new kind of support; One that’s rooted in empathy and shared experiences and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Visit the peer network.com today and begin your journey with a companion who truly gets it.

The Peer Network: where every step forward is a step together.

Meet Jude Morrow

Jude Morrow is an Autistic motivational speaker, TEDx Speaker, author, former social worker and the founder of Neurodiversity Training International and the EndeeSphere App.

Jude’s books:

• Loving Your Place on the Spectrum: A Neurodiversity Blueprint

• Why Does Daddy Always Look So Sad?

Listen To This Episode

The post Breaking the Stigma | Redefining Autism & Celebrating Neurodiversity| A conversation with Jude Morrow appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Today we’re in your wallet, talking about the complex issue of autism and consumerism.

When parents are vulnerable and faced with consumerism while trying to find the right care for their child, the results can be financially and emotionally devastating. In this episode Janeen shares her experience and what to look out for on your journey.

In this episode you will discover:

• How your intentions inform your choices for your child.
• How your experience as a parent plays into these decisions.
• What red flags to watch out for when choosing a therapist, physician, protocol or program.
• How to avoid being sucked into products and services you may not need.

Listen to this episode:

The post Take My Money, Fix My Kid | When consumerism and autism collide; How to avoid the pitfalls appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Today we’re in the family room talking about support from extended family and friends. It’s not an easy task for autism families to get the support we need from the people we love. This episode is designed to share with them and make it a bit easier.

This is a replay. The original episode aired 8/3/2022

Sometimes the journey to well-being feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. Welcome to the peer network, where connection meets compassion through telehealth peer support. At the peer network, their certified peer support specialists are more than just trained professionals. They are individuals who have walked their own path of recovery and resilience. They understand, because they’ve been there.

Imagine having someone who listens relates and supports you through your unique challenges whether it’s managing stress, navigating life, transitions, or fostering mental wellness. Their peer support is here for you accessible from the comfort of your home their telehealth platform brings you a personalized support experience it’s confidential, flexible and centered around your needs and schedule.

It’s time to embrace a new kind of support; One that’s rooted in empathy and shared experiences and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Visit the peer network.com today and begin your journey with a companion who truly gets it.

The Peer Network: where every step forward is a step together.

In this episode you will discover:

• What inhibits family and friends from reaching out.
• How you can address difficult conversations.
• How autism can affect a family and why we need support.
• Some helpful guidelines for family and friends.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

• National Autism Association
• Barry Prizant’s Podcast
• Uniquely Human Book
• Naoki Higashida
• Stephen Shore
• Temple Grandin

Show Transcript:

Download the PDF article here if you’d like to share a printed version with others.

Listen to this episode:

The post REPLAY: What Autism Parents Wish You Knew | An Episode To Share With Extended Family & Friends appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Sometimes the journey to well-being feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. Welcome to the peer network, where connection meets compassion through telehealth peer support. At the peer network, their certified peer support specialists are more than just trained professionals. They are individuals who have walked their own path of recovery and resilience. They understand, because they’ve been there.

Imagine having someone who listens relates and supports you through your unique challenges whether it’s managing stress, navigating life, transitions, or fostering mental wellness. Their peer support is here for you accessible from the comfort of your home their telehealth platform brings you a personalized support experience it’s confidential, flexible and centered around your needs and schedule.

It’s time to embrace a new kind of support; One that’s rooted in empathy and shared experiences and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Visit the peer network.com today and begin your journey with a companion who truly gets it.

The Peer Network: where every step forward is a step together.

Show Notes

Show Notes

We’re in the therapy office today talking with Kurt Schmidt, founder of The Peer Network. We’ll be diving into how addiction and substance misuse are difficult issues particularly for spectrum and neurodivergent families, as well as how to get affordable, convenient support.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• What is Peer Support and how it helps.
• The risk factors for addiction and substance misuse
• How peer support differs from traditional therapy

Mentioned on the Podcast

• Get started with Peer Support from the comfort of your home: ThePeerNetwork.com offers services that are easily accessible online. There is no requirement for app downloads. All that is needed is an internet connection.
   
• MHA peer support credentialing

Meet Kurt Schmidt

Kurt, the innovative creator of ThePeerNetwork.com, passionately focuses on improving peer support for those tackling mental health and substance use issues. With an MBA, MSW, and LMSW certification, he brings a rich blend of academic expertise and real-world experience as a Certified Peer Support Specialist. His commitment to enhancing community wellness is evident.

Residing in Missouri with his wife Melinda and their two daughters, Kurt is deeply involved in enriching mental health support networks, making a significant difference in many lives.

Listen To This Episode

The post Substance Use & Addiction In Neurdivergent Families | A conversation with Kurt Schmidt of The Peer Network appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

We’re in the workplace today talking with cofounder and COO, Tom D’Eri.  Tom shares his experience growing up with an autistic brother and helping to create a sustainable employment opportunity for him and so many others.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• How his family came up with the idea for Rising Tide Car Wash.
• Tom’s experience as an autism sibling and how it shaped his own future.
• How accommodations in the workplace became insights for his team.
• How workplace design is crucial to support individuals with autism on the job.

Mentioned on the Podcast

• Rising Tide Car Wash
• Rising Tide U: Helping entrepreneurs, business leaders and change-makers unlock the transformative power of inclusivity and autism employment.
• Tom’s Book: The Power of Potential: How A Non-Traditional Workforce Can Lead You To Run Your Business Better

Meet Tom D’Eri

Tom D’Eri has dedicated his career to unleashing human potential by creating organizational systems and culture that empower people to grow. Tom is the Co-Founder and COO of Rising Tide Car Wash, an organization that employs over 90 individuals with autism in a successful car wash business. Tom is a Forbes 30 Under 30 social entrepreneur and is the author of The Power of Potential: How a Non-Traditional Workforce Can Lead You to Run Your Business Better.

Listen To This Episode

The post Autism and Employment | How one family created a successful business model that employs individuals on the spectrum appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

We’re in the home library today talking with author and public speaker, Ron Sandison. Ron shares his experience growing up autistic and has some fantastic advice for parents, professionals and churches who help people on the autism spectrum.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• How a honey badger and a groundhog help keep Ron grounded.
• How a special interest can develop into a career path.
• How marketing changed the way he interacted with the world.
• Connections and why people with ASD have difficulty making them.
• Why being able to ask for help is the key to success.
• How he went from a child with a speech delay to a public speaker.

Mentioned on the Podcast

• Ron’s website: https://www.spectruminclusion.com/
• Ron speaking about autism and employment: https://www.facebook.com/keyministry/videos/643932070879829
• Ron’s books:
  • A Parent’s Guide To Autism: Practical Advice, Biblical Wisdom
  • Views From the Spectrum: A Window Into Life and Faith with Your Neurodivergent Child

Meet Ron Sandison

Ron Sandison works full time in the medical field and is a professor of theology at Destiny School of Ministry. He is an advisory board member of the Art of Autism and the Els Center of Excellence. Sandison has a Master of Divinity from Oral Roberts University and is the author of A Parent’s Guide to Autism published by Charisma House, Thought, Choice, Action and Views
from the Spectrum. Sandison speaks at over 70 events a year including 20 plus education conferences. He is the founder of Spectrum Inclusion which empowers young adults with autism for employment and independence. Ron and his wife, Kristen, reside in Rochester Hills, MI, with daughter, Makayla and dog, Rudy.

Listen To This Episode

The post A View From the Spectrum | A conversation with Ron Sandison about his experience growing up autistic appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

We’re in the TV room/home theater today talking with Angie Harrington of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. Angie’s son was diagnosed with autism last year, and she shares how she is navigating her new normal.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• Why Angie decided it was time to leave the show
• Her family’s journey to get her son, Hart, an autism diagnosis during a global pandemic
• What connects her and her son that goes beyond spoken words
• Adjustments she has had to make in her own home

Mentioned on the Podcast

• People Magazine article and pictures
• The Melissa Nellesen Center For Autism at Utah Valley University 

Website and Social Media:

• Social Media:
  Instagram: @AngieHarrington

Meet Angie Harrington

photo credit:          MANICPROJECT

Angie Harrington is a Utah based mom of three, stepmom of three and co-star on Bravo’s Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, who just publicly shared for the first time, the news of her youngest son, Hart’s autism diagnosis and how she hopes that bringing awareness to autism might just help other families going through a similar experience.

In addition to being a mother of a toddler with autism and two teenagers with ADHD, Angie also lives with
ADHD and anxiety herself and is no stranger to the world of neurodiversity. She has been proudly working with organizations and charities to help bring awareness and acceptance of autism and neurodiversity. Hart was diagnosed with autism this past fall and since then, Angie has been focusing on being a mother first and foremost and has stepped away from her role on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.

As a woman with ADHD raising children with ADHD, Angie looks at the condition as a superpower, rather than a disability and intends to use her voice and platform to shine a light on being a parent of neurodivergent children.

Angie with her son, Hart              photo credit: MANICPROJECT

Listen To This Episode

The post The New Normal | Adjusting to Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis | A conversation with Angie Harrington appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

We’re in the therapy office today chatting with Whitney Owens about her autism motherhood journey. Whitney shares her experiences as a mom, private practice owner and entrepreneur.

In This Episode You Will Discover

• What is a faith-based practice and who is it for?
• How Whitney’s life has changed since her daughter’s diagnosis
• The most difficult part for her journey, personally
• How she manages to balance being a business owner and special needs mom

Mentioned on the Podcast

• Free facebook membership community for faith-based practice owners
• Wise Practice Summit: whitneyowens.com/summit-2023

Website and Social Media:

• Website: https://whitneyowens.com/

• Whitney’s Podcast:  Wise Practice
• Email: [email protected]
• Social Media:
  Instagram: @WhitneyOwensConsulting
  Facebook: Whitney Owens

Meet Whitney Owens, LPC

Whitney Owens is a licensed professional counselor, group practice owner, and faith-based private practice consultant. She is located in Savannah, Georgia, where she manages a private pay group practice with 10 plus clinicians. Along with running her practice, she consults practice owners around the country on how to start and grow a successful faith-based practice. She hosts summits, a weekly podcast, and a membership community for faith-based practice owners called Wise Practice. She has spoken at numerous events such as both the Georgia and Maryland annual professional counselors conferences as well as trainings for Florida’s Counseling Association. In 2023 she spoke at Meet you in Kentucky, which is for group practice owners, as well as hosting her own summit in Savannah. In her free time, Whitney enjoys spending time with her husband and two girls, running, reading, and relaxing in the backyard.

Listen To This Episode

The post Wise Motherhood | How one autism mom balances parenting and her private practice | A Conversation with Whitney Owens, LPC appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.