Episoder
-
In this empowering episode of Divergent Dialogues, Caitlin and Teena share practical strategies for managing Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) while navigating relationships, friendships, and social expectations as neurodivergent individuals.
Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, they explore:
The importance of setting and maintaining personal boundaries.
How self-compassion can help in distinguishing perceived rejection from reality.
Tips for communicating needs and clarifying misunderstandings without fear of conflict.
The role of therapeutic approaches in reducing the intensity of RSD responses.
The journey of embracing authenticity while navigating changing relationships.
Caitlin and Teena remind listeners that it's okay to prioritise nourishing connections and embrace their unique communication styles. Whether you're new to RSD or looking for fresh approaches to coping, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and heartfelt encouragement.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this thought-provoking episode of Divergent Dialogues, Caitlin and Teena delve into Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), a profound emotional experience that resonates with many neurodivergent individuals. They explore the intense reactions to perceived or actual rejection and criticism, unpacking how RSD can ripple into social interactions and relationships.
Through personal reflections and professional insights, they discuss:
The challenges of navigating relationships with heightened sensitivity.
The influence of societal messaging and gender on perceptions of rejection.
Practical strategies for fostering clear communication, setting boundaries, and creating mutual understanding in relationships.
Whether you’re navigating your own RSD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a compassionate lens and actionable takeaways to deepen understanding and connection.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Mangler du episoder?
-
Join Caitlin, Teena, and special guest Jenifer Breaux as they dive into the intersection of neurodiversity and travel. From navigating family trips with neurodivergent children to reframing vacation expectations, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring stories.
Discover how Jenifer empowers families to explore the world with confidence. Learn about the magic of social stories, sensory-friendly accommodations, and finding balance between adventure and downtime. Plus, hear about her free ebook, "The Ultimate Top 10 Travel Tips," and how her business, JB Travel Pros, makes travel dreams come true!
Jenifer Breaux is a retired army veteran who served almost three decades. During her time in the army she served the United States all over the world. Through those experiences she gained a love of service and travel. She excelled in her training and retired with honor. Six years ago she opened a franchise of Dream Vacations called JB Travel Pros, where she helps people travel the world with excitement. From coast to coast, Jenifer designs luxury experiences that bring her client's dreams to life. Her love for globe trotting is something she shares with her family, as well. As the mother of two amazing young men who both are on the autism spectrum. Jenifer has become an advocate for families and caregivers of special needs children.
For more information about Jenifer check out her website:
https://www.iamjeniferbreaux.com/
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Join Caitlin and Teena for Episode #27 of Divergent Dialogues as they explore the pressing issue of autistic and ADHD burnout. They highlight the unique signs of burnout experienced by neurodivergent individuals and share invaluable strategies for recognising and managing these challenges. Through personal anecdotes, Caitlin and Teena offer insight into their journeys, underscoring the importance of self-awareness, boundary setting, and mindfulness. They discuss practical tools like emotion tracking apps and emphasise the significance of a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re navigating your own path or supporting loved ones, this episode offers empathetic guidance and professional advice. Don’t miss this thoughtful exploration—tune in to gain understanding and learn how to incorporate preventive measures into your everyday life.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this enlightening episode of the Divergent Dialogues podcast, Teena and Caitlin explore the complexities of burnout in neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD and autism. They discuss balancing personal needs with societal expectations, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and redefining success beyond traditional productivity. The discussion covers societal pressures that exacerbate burnout, offering personal anecdotes and insights to emphasise empathy and support. They provide practical strategies for managing burnout and its impact on relationships and daily life. The episode also addresses the mental drain of 'doom scrolling' and the need for conscious content consumption, alongside relaxation techniques. As Teena and Caitlin share their journey, they offer strategies for dealing with masking, holiday pressures, and the importance of deep rest and rejuvenation. Join us for a heartfelt discussion aimed at fostering understanding and providing actionable advice for navigating neurodivergence.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Trigger warning: Discussion of self-harm
Please note: Around 12:26, Chris said: "For those of us who have these multiple exceptionalities, it's a very lonely experience. And the thing about Dabrowski that is so amazing to me is that he had this experience. The episode we recorded with Caitlin, Emma brought up this book he wrote and how he says about himself, "I'm a psychiatrist and a psychologist," and he's grappling with these two parts of himself." What Chris meant was, "I am a psychologist and a schizophrenic." In the book Fragments From the Diary of a Madman, under his pseudonym, Cienin, Dabrowski wrote, "I am a schizophrenic and I am a psychologist. I do not know what helps what or what damages what." You can download the excerpt Chris was referring to here: https://dabrowskicenter.org/.../2024/10/Cienin-excerpt.pdf
In this episode, Caitlin and Teena are joined by special guests Dr Chris Wells and Emma Nicholson from the Positive Disintegration Podcast! They dive deep into their personal experiences with Positive Disintegration, discussing the unique challenges of being multi-exceptional and the importance of recognising Giftedness as a form of neurodivergence. Tune in as they explore how to support neurodivergence and overexcitabilities in individuals while fostering their growth and development. Discover how the Theory of Positive Disintegration fits within the neurodiversity paradigm. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!
If you're new to the Theory of Positive Disintegration check out Dabrowski 101, An Introduction to the Theory of Positive Disintegration
Chris Wells, PhD, LSW, is a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent individuals, drawing on personal experience and a deep understanding of Dąbrowski's theory of positive disintegration. As a writer, guide, and committed Dąbrowski scholar, Chris explores how this transformative theory can contribute to personal growth and a deeper understanding of giftedness and neurodivergence. They serve as the founding president of the Dąbrowski Center and co-host the Positive Disintegration Podcast, where they aim to make this complex theory more accessible and relevant to everyday life. Chris writes for the Positive Disintegration newsletter on Substack, sharing insights that blend professional expertise with lived experience.
Emma is a senior business analyst by day, and content creator by night. She is the Vice President of the Dąbrowski Center, co-host of the Positive Disintegration Podcast, and creates content on overexcitabilities and the theory of positive disintegration for her website Tragic Gift and YouTube channel Adults With Overexcitabilities. Exploring problems and finding solutions is her daily bread and butter, and she has a knack for simplifying technical information so it can be easily shared with others. She is also a creative soul, with zero cares about sharing skeletons in the closet, if it will help someone else. Most importantly, she has an un-killable passion for promoting the theory of positive disintegration to help people feel supported and understood.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Join Caitlin and Teena in this insightful podcast episode as they dive deep into the complexities of meltdowns. They share personal stories, emphasising the significance of recognising triggers, communication, and the power of seeking support. Caitlin sheds light on how meltdowns are physiological responses to sensory and emotional overload. Together, they explore the challenges of travel, the importance of downtime, and practical strategies. This candid conversation highlights the necessity of empathy and understanding, underscoring that asking for help is a true strength. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that aims to foster a non-judgmental approach to supporting those who experience meltdowns.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Join Caitlin and Teena as they dive deep into the intriguing world of Alexithymia—exploring why identifying and expressing emotions can be particularly challenging for Autistic folks and ADHDers. They unravel the connection between Alexithymia and Interoception, shedding light on how our bodies signal emotions and its impact on emotional regulation. Plus, they take a fascinating look at the evolution of ADHD diagnoses over history and the vital need for support in developing emotional regulation skills.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by special guest Marisa and they dive into the intersections of neurodivergence, gender identity, and sexuality, shedding light on the unique perspectives and challenges faced by both their clients and themselves. They discuss the pathologisation of differences, the importance of authenticity, and the complexities of societal acceptance for neurodiverse individuals. The conversation highlights the negative impact of shame and normativity in workplaces and society, advocating for a more accepting and forgiving majority to promote diverse and authentic ways of being and living.
Caitlin and Marisa share their experiences of feeling out of place in their social contexts growing up and explain how social systems shaped their perspectives. They emphasise the importance of finding congruence between one's inner self and outer presentation and the value of being recognised and accepted for one's true identity. Both discuss their personal journeys toward embracing their authentic selves, with Marisa highlighting the Butoh dance form as a pivotal moment in self-discovery and Caitlin reflecting on their own process of embodied self-discovery.
Marisa works as an artist-writer, academic and psychotherapist. They occupy a bodymind which was late-diagnosed twice-exceptional (autistic and gifted), and agender. They are interested in the ways that dominant visual, social and economic systems change the ways in which we relate to our inner landscape, and to each other. They particularly enjoy working with people who are interfacing with new and emerging problems that come with this contemporary age. Their work can be found at www.full-saturation.com which is populated with slow writing about aesthetic engagement under capitalism.
For more information about our podcast host check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
-
Caitlin and Teena had an insightful discussion on Pervasive Demand for Autonomy (PDA) and its impact on Autistic individuals' daily lives. Caitlin shared her personal experiences, highlighting challenges like sensory sensitivities and navigating societal norms. They addressed misdiagnosis and misunderstanding of PDA, stressing the need for neurodivergent affirming research. PDA involves a strong need for control, a desire for sameness, and avoidance of everyday demands. Caitlin, who identifies with PDA, emphasised its deeply personal nature. They explored daily pressures, including sensory and executive functioning issues, and difficulties faced by undiagnosed or misunderstood individuals. They noted how intolerance to uncertainty and anxiety can lead to extreme demand avoidance in children and adolescents with PDA. Overall, their conversation underscored the need for greater awareness and tailored support for Autistic individuals with PDA.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Caitlin and Teena were joined by special guest Rebecca Vitsmun in this engaging episode, where they dived deep into discussions about hyperphantasia, neurodivergent parenting, and the link between Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and Autism. The trio reflects on the experience of hyperphantasia, discussing its role in relaxation and reframing this experience for better mental health. They also delve into the nuances of neurodivergent parenting, sharing insights on nurturing children’s unique abilities and creating supportive environments. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative conversation that highlights the creative potential and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.
Rebecca Vitsmun is a unique voice hoping to advocate for her community and spread positive awareness of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), hyperphantasia, Autism, and other “invisible” disabilities. Rebecca has authored Eliza Dee’s Universes which is an uplifting and adventurous tale that can help parents and children alike to embrace their unique traits and creatively visualise disabilities in a new and beautiful way. As an Autistic mother with Neurodivergent children, Vitsmun was inspired by her personal experiences to provide an accessible story that inspires creative imagination in readers of all ages and backgrounds.
To find out more about Rebecca check out the links below:
https://www.instagram.com/rvitsmun
https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaFinchVitsmun
https://rebeccavitsmun.com/
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this illuminating episode, Caitlin and Teena delve into the often misunderstood experiences of individuals requiring workplace accommodations. They share personal anecdotes and discuss the importance of awareness and flexibility within professional environments. From the biases faced by those with autism and ADHD to the significance of mental health advocacy, they explore how asking for adjustments can be a form of self-care. The duo also touch on the practical support available from mental health professionals and legal protections within Australia. Join Caitlin and Teena as they navigate these crucial topics and highlight the value of understanding and compassionate workplaces.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this insightful episode, Caitlin and Teena delve into the complex world of workplace accommodations for Autistic folks and ADHDers. They engage in a heartfelt conversation about the challenges of disclosing neurodivergence at work and the importance of creating supportive environments. They discuss personal experiences with mental health professionals and the difficulties in identifying necessary accommodations. This episode underscores the significance of organisational empathy and awareness training, aiming to foster understanding and reduce misunderstandings. Tune in as we explore how to navigate these sensitive issues, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and accommodating workplace.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this episode, Teena and Caitlin discuss giftedness with Jennifer Harvey Sallin founding director of InterGifted. We explore the inspiration behind a unique model of giftedness, highlighting its diverse manifestations and the significance of recognising giftedness as a form of neurodivergence. This conversation sheds light on the importance of self-understanding and mental health for individuals who are gifted. We delve into the nuanced discussion on the co-occurrence of giftedness with other neurodivergences, such as Autism and ADHD, and uncover strategies to ensure giftedness is acknowledged within neurodiversity-affirming discourse. We also touch on the cultural aspects of giftedness and address the specific support needs of gifted individuals. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that challenges conventional views and advocates for a more inclusive understanding of giftedness.
Jennifer Harvey Sallin is a psychologist who specialises in supporting intellectually gifted adults. Giftedness is often a forgotten neurodivergence, with its own special needs throughout the lifespan. Jennifer raises awareness about this form of neurodivergence through her work, especially as the founding director of an international community and support organisation for gifted adults, InterGifted (www.intergifted.com). She has created a model of giftedness that looks at more than just intellectual intelligence, and includes emotional, sensual, physical, creative and existential intelligences, as well as giftedness co-occurring with other neurodivergences, such as ADHD, autism, learning differences, and other brain differences (often called "twice- and multi-exceptionality"). She is especially interested in the role of trauma and healing on the gifted person's path, and explores this topic in-depth on her Conversations on Gifted Trauma podcast, which can be found on Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts. She lives in Switzerland and works throughout the world with the gifted population.
For more information about InterGifted and resources mentioned:
Jennifer's holistic giftedness model: www.intergifted.com/what-is-giftedness
InterGifted's International Community: www.intergifted.com/gifted-community
Gifted Psychology Training with Jennifer: www.intergifted.com/gifted-psychology-training
InterGifted's Blog: www.intergifted.com/articles
Other Courses with InterGifted: www.intergifted.com/courses
Support for gifted parenting: www.ourgiftedkids.com
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Caitlin introduces Tara, who is joining Caitlin at Cathartic Collaborations. Cathartic Collaborations provides Neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapeutic services for Autistic folks, ADHDers and their families in Brisbane and online Australia wide. Tara shares their journey into Social Work, specialising in Neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming practice. Both Caitlin and Tara, as Social Workers, discuss their experiences and perspectives in their field, emphasising the importance of critical reflective practice for self-awareness and understanding their own neurodivergence. They cover topics such as the social model of disability, harm reduction in self-harm behaviours, and the challenges faced by people with disabilities. They share the unique challenges of supporting these communities, including issues faced by young people transitioning and misinformation surrounding trans issues. Throughout, they highlight the resilience and strength of the Neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Tara is a queer, neurodivergent (Autistic & ADHD), and non-binary Accredited Social Worker. Tara is passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and young adults. Tara works with Caitlin (Co-host of Divergent Dialogues) at Caitlin’s private practice Cathartic Collaborations. Cathartic Collaborations provides Neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapeutic services for Autistic folks, ADHDers and their families in Brisbane and online Australia wide.
For more information about Cathartic Collaborations and working with Tara:
Tara Scott
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
-
In this enlightening episode, Caitlin and Teena explore effective strategies and accommodations for Autistic folks and ADHDers in educational settings. They dive into the importance of customising learning approaches to suit the unique needs of each person, emphasising the role of understanding executive functioning and sensory profiles. The duo discusses the power of artificial intelligence in task planning and organisation for those facing executive functioning challenges, and the necessity of adhering to AI usage policies in educational environments. They also share personal insights and strategies for managing sensory issues, stress, and anxiety, to enhance learning.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this engaging episode, Caitlin and Teena explore the unique challenges and experiences of Autistic folks and ADHDers in learning environments. They delve into the complexities of social relationships in school, the transition to high school, and the impact of neurodivergence on learning. From discussing struggles like sensory overwhelm, to sharing personal stories about school parades and the anxieties tied to attention and memory, they offer an insightful look into the nuanced challenges faced in educational settings. The conversation also covers the dynamics of friendships, the pressures on executive functioning, and alternative learning options such as homeschooling and flexible learning options. Highlighting the importance of understanding, respecting individual differences, and accommodating neurodivergence, Caitlin and Teena share their ideal learning environments. Join them for a deep dive into the realities of navigating learning environments while embracing neurodiversity.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
In this episode, we dive deep into the intertwined worlds of OCD and Autism. Caitlin and Teena are joined by Simon Rinne who is a Social Worker, Mens Mental Health Advocate and Lived Experience Therapist at Mindful Men. Simon shares his raw and personal journey with OCD. From exploring the co-occurrence of repetitive behaviours in autism and OCD, to understanding the nuances of obsessive behaviours, this episode sheds light on the importance of sharing experiences to dismantle stigma and enhance understanding. We delve into the driving forces behind repetitive behaviours in Autism and OCD and the critical need for greater awareness and understanding.
For more information about Mindful Men:
www.mindful-men.com.au
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Teena and Caitlin shared personal stories and professional insights on their experiences of organisation and self care. From the pressures of matching conventional expectations to the quest for effective coping mechanisms, they explore how Autistic folks and ADHDers navigate life differently. Discover the importance of tailored organisational strategies and personalising your self care routine to manage sensory inputs and maintain mental and physical health.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
-
Caitlin and Teena dive deep into the power of reframing expectations for Autistic folks and ADHDers. They share their personal experiences and insights on the journey towards embracing their differences and leveraging them for success. They discuss the societal pressures of conforming to traditional notions of success and productivity and advocate for a more flexible approach that celebrates the exploration of diverse interests and skills. They also explore the delicate balance between providing support and fostering independence in Autistic children, and the importance of nurturing each individual's unique talents.
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Cathartic Collaborations
https://catharticcollaborations.com.au/
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Balance Centre for Mental Health
https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au/
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
- Se mer
