Being “Too Much” is a Narrative that needs to be Re-examined   Summary   Patricia discusses the wound of too much and how it can impact relationships. Too much is about BOTH people and the capacity of the other person. This is a narrative that needs to be reexamined, and the context of both people needs to be addressed. She explores the intersection of neurodivergence, trauma, and socialization. Patricia also explores the concept of rules, and how through an autistic lens, this can create some challenges.   HIGHLIGHTS   Takeaways The wound of feeling like you're too much ca ..read more

Unmasking & Authentic Communication: Navigating Differences in Relationships   Patricia and Jen discuss the challenges of unmasking and being authentic in relationships including the role of PDA (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy). They explore the narratives we have about ourselves and how they can impact our interactions with others. They also delve into the differences in communication styles and perspectives, and the importance of embracing who we are. The conversation highlights the need to navigate personal dynamics and self-reflection in order to foster understanding and growth. &nb ..read more

Exploring Neurodivergence in Relationships: Understanding Unique Perspectives In this conversation, Patricia and Jen discuss their struggles with linear content and their values of focusing on relational topics. They explore the challenges of staying true to their authentic selves while creating content. The conversation also delves into the dynamics of their relationship and the growth they have experienced in building trust and security, and things they sometimes find difficult to discuss.   CO-HOST Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC   HIGHLIGHTS   Takeaways   Staying true to your ..read more

Red & Green Flags in Relationships   Patricia discusses red flags and ideal qualities in relationships. She emphasizes the importance of honoring rhythms and self-care, as well as effective communication and conflict resolution. Patricia also addresses gaslighting, setting boundaries, and the significance of trust, honesty, and similar values in a relationship. She explores the impact of political differences and attachment wounds on a partnership. The episode concludes with a reminder to embrace sensitivity and prioritize self-care.   HIGHLIGHTS   Takeaways   Honor you ..read more

Navigating Miscommunication and Misunderstanding   Jen helps me process through a communication blip I had with my son. My husband & I have very different styles when talking to our boys, & I felt inadequate, and I sometimes struggle to attune. We talk about context when communicating, projection, who is a safe person to get angry at, & I talk about my own reactivity and confusion at my reaction. Jen reminds me that my family sticks with hard conversations. We also talk about having neuro-normative standards, & how that constantly leads to disappointment.   CO-HOST Je ..read more

Neurodivergence and Friendship: The Struggle is Real   I talk about the challenges and complexities of friendships for neurodivergent folks, and the changing nature of friendships, the importance of reciprocity and communication. I discuss navigating difficult conversations, recognizing and addressing needs, and setting boundaries. I talk about the tendency to feel central in someone's life, and the challenges of accepting neurodivergence in relationships. I explore the importance of self-awareness, authenticity, and honoring one's own needs in relationships.   HIGHLIGHTS   Take ..read more

The Importance of Rest & Learning to Receive & Ask for Help   Patricia and Jen discuss their health updates and the challenges they have faced. They also delve into the pressure to be productive and the fear of not functioning. The conversation shifts to vulnerability and insecurity in relationships, as well as the process of learning to receive and ask for help. They reflect on the growth and healing that comes from navigating attachment wounds. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of not always having to do deep work in therapy.   CO-HOST Jen Per ..read more

Autism Identification Should Come with a Warning Label (Including Autistic Burnout)   There are things that happen to most autistic people once they identify as autistic, and there should be a warning label! If you’re late diagnosed, and high masking, there’s a good chance you are, or will be in autistic burnout. There’s also skill regression, and not being able to push through anymore. This can be confusing and distressing. I bring you up to date on my health journey, and where I’m at with autistic burnout, and I provide a few resources.   HIGHLIGHTS Summary In this episode, Patrici ..read more

Exploring Identity, and Turning Toward Yourself in Affirming Ways   Jen and I touch on so much in this episode: challenges setting boundaries; structure vs. the need for novelty (ADHD vs. autism), attachment injuries and bids for connection; the challenges and gifts of hard conversations; what neuro-affirming therapy looks like; PDA and focusing on others to reduce demands; masking; what comes up when someone suspects they are autistic or are recently diagnosed.   CO-HOST Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC   HIGHLIGHTS Summary In this conversation, Jen and Patricia discuss various topics ..read more

Real Talk on Health Challenges: Speaking FOR Your Parts vs. Speaking FROM Your Parts   Jen and I talk about the difference between complaining, speaking honestly about what’s going on, and the other person’s capacity to sit with things that they may feel they need to fix or change. Many of you have been told that you complain too much or that you’re too negative. Neurodivergent brains tend to report the truth, and we are very discerning about what we like and what we don’t like. This can be perceived as negativity, complaining or being depressing to be around. What if it really wasn’t abo ..read more