We’re ‘on the couch’ today, talking about perfectionism and why it has no place in autism…or in your life. In this episode you will discover: How host, Janeen Herskovitz, overcame her own struggle with perfectionism. Learn how authenticity is the antidote to perfectionism. An exercise that will help you get more in touch with […]

ABP Episode 14: Perfectly Imperfect | Why There’s No Place For Perfectionism In Autism

In each episode host Janeen Herskovitz focuses on a different room in the house to help you create a peace plan for your home while living with autism.

Education

Training

Language Courses

Higher Education

K-12

Educational Technology

Social Sciences

Science & Medicine

Kids & Family

Science

Self-Improvement





In This Episode 



In this episode Janeen speaks with Meg Applegate, who shares her powerful story of being a survivor of the troubled teen industry. Meg opens up about her experiences of being undiagnosed autistic throughout her life and the trauma she faced during her time in congregate care facilities from the ages of 15 to 18 and a half.



Meg Applegate’s story sheds light on the harsh realities of the troubled teen industry, where punitive techniques and behavior modification are used under the guise of reforming youth. She discusses the challenges she faced in fitting in, making friends, and dealing with attachment issues as an adopted individual.



The conversation delves into the impact of undiagnosed autism on Meg’s experiences and how it contributed to the difficulties she faced in these facilities. She shares insights into the indoctrination and brainwashing tactics used in these programs, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in such institutions.



Meg Applegate also discusses her nonprofit organization, Unsilenced, which aims to stop institutional child abuse by empowering self-advocates and promoting lasting social change. The organization provides support, resources, and advocacy for survivors of the troubled teen industry, emphasizing the need for prevention, awareness, and support for those affected.



Meg offers valuable advice for parents who may be struggling with their children’s behavior, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, seeking help from therapists, and utilizing community resources. She also warns against the dangers of residential treatment programs and the need for careful consideration before sending a child to such facilities.



Listeners are encouraged to visit Unsilenced.org for more information, resources, and red flags to watch out for when considering residential treatment programs. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing trauma, advocating for survivors, and working towards a more supportive and inclusive future for all individuals.



Links:



Meg’s Book: Becoming UNSILENCED: Surviving and Fighting the Troubled Teen IndustryUnsilenced website: (where you can check specific centers and see their track records.)This is Paris Documentary: About Paris Hilton’s TTI experience (Free on YouTube)Follow Meg on Instagram/TikTok: @megappelgatewww.megappelgate.com







Meet Meg Appelgate







Meg is a youth rights advocate, entrepreneur, and the Co-founder and CEO of Unsilenced, a nonprofit organization aiming to stop institutional child abuse within the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI). She is a survivor of 2 TTI programs, where she spent a combined total of 3 1/2 years of her life.



It wasn’t until she was well into her career that she woke up to the abuse and brainwashing that plagued her childhood and the effect it had on her entire adulthood. It was then that Unsilenced was born out of her determination to turn her pain into purpose. She is dedicated to empowering other survivors of institutional abuse and holding the industry accountable for causing them harm.







Listen To This Episode
The post Unsilenced: Exposing the Troubled Teen Industry | A conversation with survivor & advocate Meg Appelgate appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Unsilenced: Exposing the Troubled Teen Industry | A conversation with survivor & advocate Meg Appelgate


In this episode, we’re in the theater chatting with Janeen’s daughter, Rebekah, who has returned to the podcast for the second time after several years. Rebekah, now 24 years old, shared her journey from being a theater-loving kid to a young adult navigating life with neurodiversity. As our new Creative Consultant at Autism Blueprint, Rebekah discussed her experiences growing up with a brother diagnosed with autism and how it shaped her perspective on her own neurodiversity.

In This Episode 

Rebekah opened up about her struggles with self-consciousness, social pressures, and the challenges of maintaining relationships while dealing with ADHD and potential autism. She shared insights into her unique experiences in the arts, highlighting how theater provided structure, socialization, and a sense of belonging that helped her cope with her neurodivergent traits.
The conversation delved into Rebekah’s time in New York pursuing a musical theater education, where she faced financial struggles and the transition from structured school environments to the uncertainties of adult life. Rebekah candidly discussed the impact of societal expectations, individualism, and the importance of patience and belief in individuals with neurodiversity.
As Rebekah prepares for an upcoming assessment to determine her neurodivergent profile, she emphasized the significance of understanding and meeting the accommodations needed by individuals with neurodiversity.
Rebekah’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals navigating neurodiversity, and her openness and insights provide valuable perspectives for listeners seeking to understand and support neurodivergent individuals in their lives.
 

Meet Rebekah Herskovitz

Rebekah Herskovitz is a theater graduate who has been studying voice and musical theater since she was five years old. She is a graduate of the Florida School of the Arts in Palatka and Circle in the Square Theater School in NYC. Her credits include performances in Macbeth, Gypsy, Company, and she had the honor of performing at Feinsteins 54 Below in 2022. She currently serves as a Creative Consultant at Autism Blueprint. 
Rebekah proudly identifies as “neurospicy” and enjoys cooking, video games, music of all genres, and hanging out with friends. Her mom, Janeen Herskovitz, is the creator and host of the Autism Blueprint Podcast.  Janeen would like to sincerely thank Rebekah for sharing her story in this episode. 

Check out Rebekah’s previous episode from 2017. (NOTE: This episode is no longer available on Apple Podcasts but can be found on our website)

 
This episode is sponsored by Hopscotch Play
Get a 7 day free trial and 20% off your first month by clicking any of the links on this page or use the code blueprint at checkout.





This isn’t just another digital tool; it’s a carefully crafted platform, designed by child mental health experts and therapists. Hopscotch Play brings a rich library of over 40 therapeutic contents right to your fingertips. From interactive games that captivate and educate, to stories that teach emotional regulation and social skills, it’s everything we’ve been looking for to make our sessions more effective and engaging. Plus, with customizable session plans and progress tracking, it’s never been easier to tailor therapy to each child’s unique journey.




Listen to this episode:



The post Unscripted Insights | Rebekah Herskovitz shares her neurospicy journey appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Unscripted Insights | Rebekah Herskovitz shares her neurospicy journey

In this episode, we’re in the library where I had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Wendela Marsh for the second time on Autism Blueprint. Dr. Wendy shared valuable insights on the significance of person-first language and the evolution of her book series, “Adulting While Autistic.” We delved into the challenges faced by autistic adults living independently. Join us as we embark on a journey of understanding and acceptance with Wendy’s compassionate and inclusive perspective on supporting the neurodivergent community.
In this episode you will discover

Her new book, “Independent Living While Autistic.” and discusses the importance of person-first language.
The four main challenging areas of living for autistic individuals.
Wendy explains the use of fictional characters in the book to illustrate different issues.
Wendy discusses the concept of masking in autism and its impact on individuals.
Wendy addresses common misconceptions about late-diagnosed autistics.
Wendy highlights the sensory, social, and communication challenges faced by autistic individuals in the workplace.
Her vision for the SWAN Church project and its purpose.



Meet Dr. Wendy







Wendela Whitcomb Marsh is an award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and autism expert specializing in late-diagnosed autism. She is also the founder and CEO of Adult Autism Assessment & Services, a neurodiversity-affirming group practice providing assessment for autism and ADHD, counseling, and life coaching, nationwide. Her books include Recognizing Autism in Women and Girls, and the series, Adulting While Autistic.







Links Discussed on the Show



Previous episode with Dr. Marsh: 



Autism In Women and Girls | Why it’s so hard to get a diagnosis







https://WendelaWhitcombMarsh.com
https://AdultAutismAssessment.com
https://theSWANchurch.org



NDN: NeuroDivergent News monthly e-newsletter with Galaxy Trek Quiz https://go2.bucketquizzes.com/sf/3735b757



FREE MOM HUGS







Dr. Wendy’s Books



Independent Living While Autistic


































Recognizing Autism 
in Women and Girls










































Listen to this episode:








The post Independent Living While Autistic | A roadmap to success with Dr. Wendy Marsh appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Independent Living While Autistic | A roadmap to success with Dr. Wendy Marsh

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, Janeen welcomes Dr. Sourav Sengupta, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, to discuss important topics related to children’s mental health. The conversation delves into the role of medication in treatment, the importance of untangling complex stories, and the significance of working with systems to support children with emotional challenges. Dr. Sourav also introduces Hopscotch Play, an innovative online platform designed to enhance therapy sessions for children and families. Join us as we explore the intersection of mental health, therapy, and support for neurodivergent children and their families.
In This Episode You Will Discover

The role of a child and adolescent psychiatrist in supporting children with mental health challenges
Factors to consider when deciding on therapy and medication for children
The importance of understanding the signs that indicate a child may need therapy or medication
Discussion on holistic modalities and evidence-based approaches in child psychiatry
Medication options for neurodivergent and autistic populations, including considerations and risks
Understanding co-occurring disorders and their impact on children with autism
Introduction to the Hopscotch Play platform for therapists and families

Meet Dr. Sourav Sengupta

Dr. Sourav Sengupta currently serves as the Program Director for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellow at Jacobs School of Medicine as well as the Chief Clinical Officer at Hopscotch. He serves as Co-Chair of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry’s Committee on Collaborative and Integrated Care, and has consulted with healthcare organizations across the country to establish successful behavioral health integration programs. After graduating from Duke University, Dr. Sengupta completed the joint MD/MPH program at Tufts University. He did his adult and child psychiatry training at the Western Psychiatric Hospital at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
This episode is sponsored by Hopscotch Play
Get a 7 day free trial and 20% off your first month by clicking any of the links on this page or use the code blueprint at checkout.





This isn’t just another digital tool; it’s a carefully crafted platform, designed by child mental health experts and therapists. Hopscotch Play brings a rich library of over 40 therapeutic contents right to your fingertips. From interactive games that captivate and educate, to stories that teach emotional regulation and social skills, it’s everything we’ve been looking for to make our sessions more effective and engaging. Plus, with customizable session plans and progress tracking, it’s never been easier to tailor therapy to each child’s unique journey.




Listen to this episode:
The post When Is It Time For Meds? | Medication Myths & Realities from a child psychiatrist|A conversation with Dr. Sourav Sengupta of Hopscotch Play appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

When Is It Time For Meds? | Medication Myths & Realities from a child psychiatrist|A conversation with Dr. Sourav Sengupta of Hopscotch Play

Today I am joined by the insightful and compassionate Katherine Scott, a licensed marriage and family therapist at our private practice. Known for her expertise in working with neurodivergent individuals, Katherine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussions.
In today’s episode, we explore the complex dynamics of needs versus wants, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum. So, grab a seat on Miss Kat’s Couch, as we unravel the intricacies of navigating needs and wants in neurodivergent relationships. Let’s dive in!
In This Episode You Will Discover

Theme of the Episode: In this episode, we explore the theme of needs versus wants, particularly focusing on the struggles faced by neurodivergent individuals in identifying and advocating for their needs.
Insights Shared: Katherine and Janeen discuss the importance of recognizing and validating the needs of neurodivergent individuals, as well as the impact of societal norms and family dynamics on understanding and meeting these needs.
Key Points Discussed:
The significance of creating a safe space for discussing needs within families and relationships.
The role of sensory needs in regulating emotions and behaviors for neurodivergent individuals.
Strategies for parents to navigate and address the needs of their neurodivergent children while also honoring their own needs.
Takeaways:
Understanding the importance of holding space for both individual and shared needs within families.
Embracing the art of compromise and validation in addressing conflicting needs within relationships.
Recognizing the power of boundaries in supporting neurodivergent individuals in expressing and advocating for their needs.

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Click here to meet Katherine Scott
Katherine Scott, M.Ed/Ed.S, LMFT
Kat’s PDF’s for parents:
Coping Tools and Techniques HANDOUT 
Deep Pressure Exercises HANDOUT
 
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Our Sponsors

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ABP Episode 14: Perfectly Imperfect | Why There’s No Place For Perfectionism In Autism

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