In this episode of Unapologetically, AuDHD, hosts Patricia Young (she/her) and Alex McLaughlin (they/them) introduce this new podcast, sharing their backgrounds, experiences, and the mission behind the show. They discuss the importance of normalizing neurodivergent experiences, the topics they plan to cover, and some feelings about self-disclosure in therapy. The conversation aims to create a supportive community for those who identify as neurodivergent, particularly those who are autistic, ADHD, OCD, and PDA.
TAKEAWAYS
- Patricia Young was a licensed clinical social worker. She currently provides online coaching globally for neurodivergent folks. Patricia is AuDHD, OCD, and PDA
- Alex McLaughlin (they/them) is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary therapist with lived experience of OCD.
- The podcast aims to provide education around non-stereotypical presentations of Autism and ADHD, OCD, and other related topics.
- Hosts want to help listeners feel less alone in their experiences.
- The mission is to normalize neurodivergent experiences and celebrate unique ways of thinking.
- Alex wants current therapy participants to know that self-disclosure in therapy can affect the therapeutic relationship, and to consider the pros and cons to listening to the podcast.
- The podcast will cover various topics related to neurodivergence.
- Listeners are encouraged to engage with the hosts about their experiences.
- The hosts emphasize the importance of community and shared experiences.
- The podcast is a platform for honest conversations about neurodivergent lives.
SOUND BITES
“We’re here to tell you about our new podcast.”
“I work with autistic and ADHDers.”
“We want to talk about what does that [AuDHD, OCD, PDA, etc. for us] look like?”
Patricia says: “If you’re one of my clients, enjoy it.”
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Unapologetically, AuDHD
05:03 Hosts’ Backgrounds and Experiences
09:58 Mission and Purpose of the Podcast
14:59 Topics of Discussion and Future Episodes
20:03 Self-Disclosure and Therapeutic Boundaries
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:
Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today.
Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice.
Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens: https://forms.gle/LJL76rTJqqtF5L4X7
Head to Alex’s website here to connect further! https://www.thedivergentgrovetherapy.com/
Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you
Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more: twww.unapologeticallysensitive.com