In this heartfelt episode, join Alex (they/them) and Patricia (she/her) as they open up about their personal journeys to understanding their Autism and ADHD diagnoses. From initial suspicions and self-assessments to the emotional rollercoaster of validation, anger, grief, sadness and more, they share candid insights into the challenges and revelations that come with late diagnosis. Explore the nuances of high masking Autism, the impact of societal stereotypes, and the importance of finding affirming support. Whether you’re on a similar path or seeking to understand more about neurodiversity, this episode offers a compassionate and enlightening perspective. Tune in for an honest conversation that celebrates authenticity and resilience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- The personal journeys of Alex and Patricia in discovering their Autism and ADHD diagnoses.
- How societal stereotypes can delay diagnosis for many individuals.
- The concept of high masking Autism and its impact on late diagnosis.
- Emotional responses to receiving a diagnosis, including grief, relief, and acceptance.
- The role of self-assessment tools like RADS-R and CAT-Q in identifying A
- The importance of finding affirming and skilled clinics for diagnosis.
- How personal experiences and anecdotes can reveal signs of neurodivergence.
- The intersection of Autism, ADHD, and OCD in personal experiences.
- The impact of trauma, anxiety and intersectional identities on masking neurodivergent traits.
- The significance of self-acceptance and unmasking in improving quality of life.
- The challenges of navigating social norms and expectations as a neurodivergent individual.
- The role of family and friends in understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals.
- The concept of internalized presentations of Autism and ADHD.
- How cultural norms, and safety due to being in politicized bodies, can influence the presentation and recognition of neurodivergence.
- The impact of executive function challenges on daily life and career paths.
- The importance of recognizing and accommodating personal needs and differences.
- The role of special interests and hyperfocus in the lives of neurodivergent individuals.
- The challenges of managing OCD and its various presentations (more on that next episode)!
- The significance of personal growth and learning in understanding one’s neurodivergent identity.
- The value of sharing personal stories to foster understanding and acceptance.
SOUND BITES
“I finally felt like I had answers.”
“I think you might have ADHD.”
“I love numbers and data.”
“I do not like losing things.”
“Where the fuck is it?”
“I never knew what I wanted to do.”
“I struggled with paperwork.”
“ADHDers thrive on that adrenaline.”
“I can let that go.”
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Our Stories
02:47 Alex’s Diagnosis Journey
06:00 Understanding Autism and Mental Health
09:01 Exploring ADHD Diagnosis
11:46 Reflections on Diagnosis and Family Responses
16:02 Patricia’s Journey to Understanding HSP and Autism
20:08 Cultural Perspectives on Autism Diagnosis
24:09 Navigating Life with Autism and ADHD
28:00 Navigating ADHD and Anxiety
31:06 Career Journeys and Executive Functioning
33:57 The Challenges of Licensing and Paperwork
36:59 Childhood Clues and ADHD Traits
41:00 Understanding OCD and Its Variations
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) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and 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: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com
LINKS
Embrace Autism– https://embrace-autism.com/