Mind Matters

On this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris chats with licensed mental health counselor Leon Garber, host of the Seize the Moment podcast, about the complexities of perfectionism. They explore the many layers, its ties to neurodivergence, and its impact on mental health. Leon shares what he knows about the different forms of perfectionism, including self-imposed, other-oriented, and socially prescribed perfectionism, and they discuss how these can manifest in various domains of life. They also examine the role of environmental factors and personal motivations in shaping perfectionistic tendencies. TAKEAWAYS Self-imposed perfectionism sets unrealistic personal standards. Socially prescribed perfectionism stems from external expectations. Perfectionism often masks deep-seated shame. Domain-specific perfectionism targets areas of strength. For a limited time, the window is open to join the Educator Hub! Become part of this amazing community of teachers, administrators, parents of students, and anyone else in

In this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris has a heartfelt conversation with Lake Bell, an award-winning actress, writer, and director, who opens up about her journey as a mother navigating her daughter Nova's epilepsy diagnosis. Emily and Lake talk about the challenges of living with neurodiversity, and discuss ways to turn them into victories. Lake shares the impact of seizures on Nova's identity, and she reflects on her own experiences with dyslexia. They talk about the importance of reframing neurodiversity, and the role of advocacy in destigmatizing conditions like epilepsy. TAKEAWAYS Finding the right epilepsy medication can be challenging. Epilepsy can positively impact and shape family dynamics. Unique strengths are created in challenging situations. Stigmas surrounding epilepsy are an ongoing challenge. Uniqueness is just a difference, not a weakness. Join us for our free event, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, a learning and continuing education opportunity. The event is Tuesday, Se

Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Cody Clark, a magician and autistic self-advocate, to talk about Cody's unique approach to blending storytelling and sleight of hand to offer audiences a more authentic perspective on autism. They discuss Cody's personal experiences as a kid, before he understood his autism diagnosis, and how the diagnosis shaped his life. They talk about the importance of embracing special interests, as Cody did for his journey into magic, and the effect of advocacy work for disability inclusion and self-employment for autistic people. TAKEAWAYS Magic and storytelling can help reveal an authentic autistic perspective. The power of special interests shapes one's journey. Understanding an autism diagnosis can be life-changing. Advocacy for disability inclusion is crucial. Self-employment is a viable path for autistic people. Magic can be a form of self-advocacy. Join us for our free event, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, a learning and continuing education opportunity. The

Emily Kircher-Morris sits down with Sarah Kesty, an executive function coach and host of the Executive Function podcast, to talk about challenges and strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals with executive function and emotional regulation. They discuss offloading working memory, and ideas to help create an executive function-friendly environment at home and in the classroom. Sarah shares her three-phase coaching model and they talk about the importance of self-regulation in both academic and home settings. You'll learn how these approaches can transform the learning experience for students, and provide hope for educators and parents alike. TAKEAWAYS Emotional regulation is key for learning. Offload working memory for better focus. Create executive function-friendly environments. Self-regulation benefits all students. Coaching involves exploration and strategy. Normalize experimentation for effective learning. Register and attend TEFOS live, or check out recordings of the event! Join

On episode 282, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes occupational therapist and author Tracey DeMaria, to explore emotional regulation through a metaphor of "surfing the waves." They talk about how the analogy helps both children and adults visualize and manage their emotions, and how that visualization helps the process feel more like a skill to be honed rather than a clinical task. They discuss the importance of language in framing behaviors, the impact of school environments on neurodivergent children, and the integration of sensory and cognitive tools to support emotional well-being. TAKEAWAYS "Surfing the waves" aids emotional regulation. Language shapes perception of behaviors. School environments especially impact neurodivergent children. Blend sensory and cognitive tools for balance. Self-awareness is key to regulation. Mindfulness can be adapted for kids. Special interests can aid emotional control. Join us for our free event, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, a learning and continu

In this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris sits down with Joshua Stamper, author of The Language of Behavior, to explore decoding and rethinking behavior. Joshua describes his personal journey from a reluctant student to an inspiring educator, and how early experiences shaped his philosophy on supporting students. The conversation covers key topics such as trauma-informed practices, the importance of building relationships in education, and Joshua's innovative framework for understanding behavior through environment, root causes, and intentional response. They also touch on burnout and the need for self-care, and leave you with practical strategies for creating a supportive learning environment. TAKEAWAYS Behavior is communication. Connection before correction. Adopt trauma-informed practices. Prioritize educator self-care. Empathize with student experience. Join us for our free event, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, a learning and continuing education opportunity. The event will feature a p

On today's episode, Emily Kircher-Morris talks about the transformative power of play with Georgie Wisen-Vincent, a nationally recognized expert in play therapy. Emily and Georgie explore how play supports emotional resilience, not just in young children, but across all ages. They talk about the importance of adapting play for neurodivergent children, and the role of play in fostering emotional regulation and executive function. They also discuss ways to engage with children through play, and provide suggestions on how to create meaningful connections that nurture their development. TAKEAWAYS Play is essential for emotional resilience. Play therapy has a role in neurodevelopment. Adapt play for neurodivergent children. Play has an impact on emotional regulation and executive function. You should establish a balance between screen time and real-world play. Play should remain present in educational settings. Let the courses in the Neurodiversity University help you be a better educator, parent, an

Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Dr. Christopher Willard, a clinical psychologist and author, about the complexities of life's major transitions. At this time of year, this is an especially-important conversation, as some students prepare for the shift to college life. They share their own experiences and provide advice on navigating the pressures of newfound independence, the importance of self-care, and the role of systemic support in easing major transitions. Yes, they also talk about farts, so this episode has something for everyone. TAKEAWAYS It's important to understand the mental health challenges that often arise during major life transitions. There's a role for social media in destigmatizing mental health issues, but it also spreads misinformation. Systemic support is essential in educational institutions, in order to better assist students, especially those from marginalized communities. It's important not to over-pathologize normal emotional experiences. There was a creative process behind

Generalizations about ADHD haven’t done girls any favors. ADHD often manifests very differently in girls than in boys. What causes parents, educators, and even doctors, to view the symptoms of ADHD differently with girls? We know that masking, and even variations in environments, often cause symptoms to be missed. How is that happening? We’re revisiting the subject and chat with Stephen Hinshaw, a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at UC Berkeley and Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UC San Francisco. Find out more about building neurodiversity-affirming schools, and about the courses we’ll be offering soon, here. Stephen P. Hinshaw is Distinguished Professor of Psychology at UC Berkeley and Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UC San Francisco. His focus is on developmental psychopathology, child and adolescent mental health (particularly ADHD), and the use of clinical trials to understand underlying mechanisms. He also actively investigates mental illness stigmatization and

Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Dr. Chris Wells, a writer, researcher, and podcaster who specializes in positive disintegration. They break down the theory of positive disintegration, developed by Kazimierz Dąbrowski, and its relevance to personal growth and neurodiversity. They explore the concept of over-excitability, its implications in the gifted education community, and the controversy surrounding its interpretation. They talk about disintegration as a pathway to self-actualization, and the need for community support for those experiencing intense emotional states. They also discuss the future directions of integrating Dąbrowski's theory with contemporary understandings of neurodiversity. TAKEAWAYS The theory of positive disintegration is about personal growth. Dąbrowski's work connects mental illness with developmental potential. Over-excitability is a key concept in understanding neurodivergence. The gifted education community often misunderstands Dąbrowski's theory. Positive disintegration can

Kaelynn Partlow is an autism advocate and author, and one of the stars of the Netflix series, Love on the Spectrum. Today she joins Emily to talk about her experiences with autism, and they cover a lot of ground in this conversation. They discuss the evolution and effectiveness of ABA therapy, the need for accurate labeling, and using declarative language in communication. They also offer advice for parents of newly diagnosed children, and talk about the importance of finding community. TAKEAWAYS The world will label children if parents don't. The superpower label is a double-edged sword. Nuance is often lost in discussions about autism. Profound autism requires specific understanding and advocacy. Declarative language can reduce pressure in communication. Specific questions help autistic individuals engage better. Finding community is essential for parents of autistic children. Have Emily come and speak to your school district, company, or organization. Here's where you can find out more and

Today's episode is a heartfelt conversation about the importance of helping neurodivergent children understand themselves and their brain profile, and how this understanding can foster confidence and self-advocacy. Emily talks with Dr. Liz Angoff about the need for transparent communication with children about their diagnoses, and the use of relatable metaphors to explain complex concepts. They discuss collaborative approaches in assessments, the challenges of co-occurring diagnoses, and the role of parents in supporting their children. How can families find practitioners who align with neurodiversity-affirming practices, and how can that lead to understanding and acceptance for both children and their families? Get comfortable, today's conversation covers a lot of ground. TAKEAWAYS Helping kids understand their brain profiles is crucial. Self-understanding fosters confidence and self-advocacy. Using relatable metaphors can aid in explaining neurodiversity. Labels can serve as anchors for understandin

Emily Kircher-Morris chats with Emily Paige Ballou about the need for a more nuanced conversation around identity and support for neurodivergent individuals. They talk about the social model of disability, and the implications of public discourse on autism. They also explore the superpower narrative, and the importance of understanding both strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. They touch on the cultural context of autism today, and critiques of the label of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). TAKEAWAYS Neurodiversity is rooted in the concept of biodiversity. The term neurodiversity is often misused in mainstream conversations. Disability is an inherent part of human diversity. The superpower narrative can overshadow the challenges of neurodivergence. Support must address both strengths and disabilities. The social model of disability is a useful framework but has limitations. Identity-related statements can be problematic and oversimplified. PDA may obscure underlying issue

Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes registered dietician Jackie Silver, who specializes in nutrition for neurodivergent people. They discuss the unique challenges faced by the neurodiversity community, including sensory differences, interoception, and executive functioning barriers that complicate meal planning and nutrition. They also talk about practical strategies to support the neurodivergent people in your life with making good dietary choices. They identify and analyze disordered eating patterns, and discuss the significance of self-compassion in the journey towards better nutrition. TAKEAWAYS Many dietitians overlook the unique needs of neurodivergent clients. Meal planning can be overwhelming for those with executive dysfunction. It's important to work within people's "safe foods." Sensory sensitivities can greatly impact food choices and preferences. Interoception plays a crucial role in recognizing hunger and fullness cues. Mechanical eating can help those with suppressed appetites due to medi

Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Dr. Ari Tuckman for a conversation about time blindness, the complexities of ADHD, and the stigma surrounding the disorder. They discuss why ADHD is more about the struggle to convert attention into action than a lack of knowledge. They talk about how and why ADHD affects time perception and performance under pressure. If you're prone to procrastination, anxiety, and time management issues, this is an episode you need to hear. TAKEAWAYS ADHD is often misunderstood as a lack of attention rather than a difficulty in converting attention into action. Time perception in ADHD can be distorted, leading to challenges in planning and prioritizing tasks. Individuals with ADHD may perform better under pressure, but this can lead to anxiety and self-doubt. The internalized stigma can cause ADHD individuals to feel like frauds despite their successes. Social dynamics play a significant role in how ADHD behaviors are perceived by others. The pressure to conform to neurotypical sta

A term has been gaining traction over the last few years: AuDHD. Today, Emily Kircher-Morris is talking with Mattia Maurée, a neurodivergent individual who is both ADHD and autistic. They talk about how the two diagnoses blend together, one side desiring routine and sameness, while the other seeks novelty and change. They also discuss the challenges of receiving accurate diagnoses, the impact of stigma on neurodivergent individuals, how career pathways are affected, Mattia’s personal experiences of being misunderstood and judged, and the importance of community. The conversation covers many other subjects as well, and is also part of an earlier episode. TAKEAWAYS ADHD and autism can coexist in individuals, with one part of them desiring routine and sameness while the other seeks novelty and change. Receiving accurate diagnoses for neurodivergent individuals can be challenging, as the symptoms of different conditions can overlap and mask each other. Stigma and misunderstandings surrounding neurodivergent

On episode 270, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Dr. Taylor Day, a licensed psychologist who specializes in neuro-affirming care for autistic children and their families. They discuss the complexities of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in children, and the importance of understanding neurodiversity and the need for family-centered care. They cover the challenges of identifying PDA, the risks of misdiagnosis, and the necessity of adapting parenting and therapeutic strategies to better support children with this profile. They also validate parents' experiences and intuition, and endorse a holistic approach to autism care that considers the needs of the entire family. TAKEAWAYS PDA is a conceptualization rather than a formal diagnosis. Validating lived experiences is crucial for families. Research on PDA is progressing slowly. Parents often face dismissal in the medical community. PDA behaviors may resemble defiance or oppositionality. Affirming approaches can prevent family burnout. Quality of se

Speech Dude Chris Wenger joins Emily Kircher-Morris to discuss the importance of shifting from compliance-based educational strategies to more affirming practices for neurodivergent students. They explore the significance of creating safe and regulated environments, the difference between belonging and fitting in, and the need to redefine social goals to foster authentic connections among students. They talk about the value of autonomy, community building, and understanding the unique challenges faced by high school students in the context of neurodiversity. TAKEAWAYS The shift from compliance-based strategies to affirming support is crucial for neurodivergent students. Belonging is more important than fitting in for neurodivergent individuals. Social goals should focus on authentic connections rather than masking behaviors. Autonomy in decision-making enhances both student and teacher experiences. Intersectionality plays a significant role in the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. After s

School refusal and distress are the subject of the day, as Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes child psychologist and former school psychologist, Dr. Emily King. They discuss the importance of understanding the underlying causes of anxiety, the need for neurodiversity-affirming approaches, and the balance between structure and flexibility in educational settings. The also discuss the importance of grace, connection, and individualized strategies when helping children navigate their emotional experiences. TAKEAWAYS School refusal is often a response to anxiety, not an active choice. Understanding the difference between school refusal and school distress is crucial. Patterns of anxiety can vary based on environmental factors. Children may need different levels of support depending on their emotional state. Co-regulation is essential for helping children manage anxiety. Predictability in routines can help reduce anxiety for neurodivergent children. Flexibility within structure is important in educational

Today, Emily Kircher-Morris and Meredith Polsky look into the complexities of selective mutism, exploring its definitions, the importance of language in understanding it, and the personal experiences that led Meredith to specialize in this area. They discuss the myths surrounding selective mutism, and its manifestation as an anxiety disorder rather than a choice or a form of shyness. Meredith shares her journey as a parent of children with selective mutism and the challenges she faced in finding appropriate treatment, ultimately leading her to become a clinician herself. They explore the challenges of diagnosis, and provide effective therapeutic techniques. This is a must-listen for adults supporting children with selective mutism. TAKEAWAYS Selective mutism is often misunderstood as a choice. Language matters in discussing selective mutism. The term 'situational mutism' is gaining popularity. Parents play a crucial role in treatment. Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder, not shyness. Pushing c