The Understanding Autism Podcast

Season 2 Episode 41: Autism and Mental Health: Living With PTSD on the Autism Spectrum by Lisa Morgan and Mary Donahue (Part 2)

In this episode, we continue our review of Lisa Morgan and Mary Donahue's book, Living With PTSD on the Autism Spectrum. Here, we focus on the impact that constant masking,  camouflaging, and the pressure to conform can have long term impacts on mental health. We also discuss strategies around setting boundaries and taking charge of your own mental health. 

Season 2 Episode 40: Autism and Mental Health: Living With PTSD on the Autism Spectrum by Lisa Morgan and Mary Donahue (Part 1)

In part three of our four part series on autism and mental health, we review the book Living With PTSD on the Autism Spectrum by Lisa Morgan and Mary Donahue. Lisa is an autistic adult and Mary is a therapist; together they describe how prolonged exposure to social pressures and environments can actually lead to PTSD. We explore this connection and other situations that might lead to PTSD for those on the spectrum.

Season 2 Episode 39: In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts Part 2

In this episode we continue our analysis of Gabor Mate’s book, In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts. We examine what behavioral addictions could look like from an autistic person’s point of view when trying to achieving adult independence.

Season 2 Episode 38: Autism and Mental Health: In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts Book Review (Part 1)

In this episode we continue our mini series on autism and mental health by reviewing Gabor Mate’s book, In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts. While Mate looks at addiction and recovery through the lens of substance abuse, we examine what behavioral addictions and recovery could look like from an autistic person’s point of view.

Season 2 Episode 37: Autism and Mental Health: Dopamine Nation Book Review

People on the spectrum often have challenges around instant gratification, escapism, and addiction; all of which have been compounded by our interaction with cell phones. In this episode we explore the book, Dopamine Nation, by Anna Lembke in the context of adult independence and on maintaining mental health in the era of smart phones.

Season 2 Episode 36: Interview with Lila Low Beinart of Divergent Paths Counseling

In this episode we interview Lila Low-Beinart, a licensed therapist in Boulder County, Colorado who specializes in neurodiversity-affirming therapy for sensory neurodivergent teens and adults. With her, we explore the challenges, stigmas, and obstacles that surround the topic of adult independence for neurodivergent people.  

Season 2 Episode 35: Interview With Alley Joel and Rebecca Seiden of Boulder County Department of Human Services

Successful housing programs for neurodiverse people can be based on publicly funded initiatives. In 2002, voters in Boulder County, Colorado passed one such measure authorizing the building of housing units and supports for the intellectually disabled in their community. Our interview explores the goals and scope of this innovative program and how it aims to serve the needs of the autistic and intellectually disabled community of Boulder County.

Season 2 Episode 34: Interview With Desiree Kameka Galloway, Director of the Autism Housing Network

The Madison House Autism Foundation’s mission is to promote, model and advocate for the full inclusion of adults with autism in the life of communities everywhere. They also work to expand choices and opportunity in housing, employment and community life. In this episode, we interview Desiree Kameka Galloway, Director of the Autism Housing Network, and get her thoughts on the state of housing for the autistic community today.

Season 2 Episode 33: Housing and Transportation

Two of the biggest issues in moving towards adult independence are housing and transportation. This is especially difficult for those who are neurodivergent. In this episode we discuss the pros and cons of different types of housing and the transportation challenge. We also explore some innovative housing solutions, including supported independent living communities.

Season 2: Episode 32: Interview With Joie Laykoff and Mitch Carver of Fusion Academy

In this episode, we continue our conversation about the role that education plays in preparing neurodivergent students for independence. Joie Laykoff is the Senior Director of Teaching and Learning of Fusion Education Group. Mitch Carver is Head of School for Fusion Academy in Boulder, Colorado. Together, they discuss Fusion Academy’s 1:1 teacher/student ratio, their personalization of learning for each student, and the impact these have on student success.