In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, we’re in the classroom today with Rosalia Rivera, an expert in body safety education. Our conversation centered around the critical importance of teaching children about their bodies, boundaries, and consent, particularly in the context of preventing abuse.

Rosalia introduced the concept of “body safety,” practical ways to start these conversations, emphasizing that it’s never too late to begin, whether your child is two or thirteen. Rosalia shared valuable insights on how to introduce the idea of autonomy and consent, using relatable stories to engage children in a meaningful way.

We also addressed the unfortunate reality of the “not my kid” syndrome that many parents experience, highlighting the alarming statistics around child sexual abuse. Rosalia explained the grooming process and the reasons why children often do not report abuse, underscoring the need for education and open communication.

For families with neurodivergent children, we explored tailored approaches to teaching body safety, emphasizing the importance of using multiple senses and practical examples to ensure understanding. Rosalia provided strategies for parents to advocate for their children’s safety, especially in family dynamics where boundaries may be tested.

Throughout the episode, we stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for children to express their feelings and set boundaries, while also educating adults about the signs of grooming and inappropriate behavior.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in fostering a safer environment for children. Join us as we empower ourselves and our children to advocate for their safety and well-being.

Rosalia Rivera is a consent educator and child sexual abuse prevention specialist, sexual literacy advocate, 2x TEDx speaker, rape culture disruptor, co-founder of the BRAVE Movement, co-founder of the Survivors Council Canada, the founder of CONSENTparenting and the host of the AboutCONSENT podcast. She was also recently named a Verywell 25 Mind Mental Health Champion for 2023. Rosalia is also a CSA (child sexual abuse) survivor turned thriver. She helps busy parents go from fearful and anxious to confident and empowered about teaching their kids about body safety, boundaries, and consent to prevent sexual abuse.

https://www.consentparenting.com/

https://aboutconsent.com/

Check out the video version of this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@autismblueprint

The post Understanding Consent | Body Safety Strategies for ALL Families | A conversation with Rosalia Rivera appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kari Baker, a remarkable mom who has transitioned from a successful career in corporate finance to becoming a passionate advocate for families with neurodivergent children. Kari shares her personal journey as a mother to her son, Brady, who was diagnosed with autism, and the profound impact this diagnosis has had on her life and perspective.

Kari candidly discusses the emotional turmoil she experienced upon receiving Brady’s diagnosis, including feelings of devastation and the fear of societal perceptions surrounding autism. However, she quickly shifted into action mode, determined to seek early intervention and support for her son. Throughout our discussion, Kari emphasizes the importance of family support, sharing how her parents and sister played crucial roles in their journey.

One of the highlights of our conversation is Kari’s newly published book, “Finding Kind,” which aims to empower parents to recognize the gifts and talents of their neurodivergent children. She reflects on her personal faith journey and how it has shaped her perspective on parenting and advocacy, ultimately leading her to embrace the unique qualities that make Brady who he is.

Throughout the episode, Kari’s passion for advocacy shines through, reminding us that while the path may be challenging, there is always hope and support available. Her story is one of resilience, love, and the transformative power of embracing our children’s unique gifts.

Be sure to check out our YouTube channel for a visual experience of this discussion, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes!

Check out the video version of this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@autismblueprint

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Kari A. Baker is a former financial services executive and business owner turned author, speaker, and podcaster. She is the founder of KIND Families, a community of people who love Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences and is the host of The KIND Families Podcast. Kari became a KIND mom in 2014 when her son Brady was diagnosed with autism at age three. She started KIND Families to encourage, support, and inspire others to find purpose and promise in KIND-ness. Her first print book Finding KIND, releases on October 22nd.

https://kariabaker.com

https://www.instagram.com/kariabaker

https://www.facebook.com/kariabaker

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kariabaker/

Note: This episode may contain Amazon affiliate links.

The post Creating a KIND Family | An autism mom’s story of love, faith and resilience | A conversation with Kari Baker appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, I am joined by my friend and colleague, Katherine Scott, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in North Florida. Together, we delve into the complexities of neurodivergent relationships, particularly focusing on couples where one partner is neurodivergent and the other may be neurotypical or also neurodivergent.

Katherine shares her insights from her practice, discussing common challenges faced by these couples, such as difficulties with perspective-taking, communication breakdowns, and the nuances of intimacy.

Throughout the episode, we explore the unique dynamics that arise in neurodivergent relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accepting each partner’s differences.

We discuss the importance of recognizing good intent in each other and the necessity of pausing to create space for connection. Katherine encourages listeners to stop comparing their relationships to others, reminding them that each couple’s journey is unique.

This episode is packed with insights and practical tips for anyone navigating the complexities of neurodivergent relationships. Whether you’re in a neurodivergent couple or simply looking to understand these dynamics better, this conversation offers valuable perspectives and tools for fostering connection and understanding.

Be sure to check out our YouTube channel for a visual experience of this discussion, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes!

Check out the video version of this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@autismblueprint

If you’re in the Jacksonville, FL area and would like to join us for this in-person group, click here to get all the details!

Click here to meet Ms. Kat

Her children’s book: The Tale of A Trio

Buy on Amazon

Previous episodes with Ms. Kat:

• Understanding Neurodivergent Needs | A conversation with Miss Kat | with Katherine Scott, LMFT
• Telling ‘Tails’: How Stories Can Help Kids Adjust To New Situations | A Conversation With Katherine Scott, LMFT

The post Neurodivergent Love appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Rachael Dunkle, a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified high conflict divorce coach. Rachel shared her journey into the mental health field, which was inspired by her personal experiences with trauma and addiction, as well as her own high conflict divorce.

We delved into the definitions of trauma and narcissism, discussing how these concepts manifest in relationships, particularly in the context of high conflict dynamics. Rachael emphasized the importance of understanding trauma as a spectrum of experiences that can significantly impact an individual’s sense of safety and well-being. We also explored the complexities of narcissism, clarifying that not every difficult behavior equates to narcissistic personality disorder.

A significant part of our conversation focused on the challenges faced by special needs parents, especially those navigating high conflict relationships. Rachael highlighted the unique dynamics that arise when parenting a child with special needs, including feelings of isolation and the difficulty of leaving unhealthy relationships. We discussed the harmful effects of coercive control and gaslighting, and how these tactics can undermine a person’s sense of self.

Rachael introduced her coaching program, “Resilience to Rise,” which aims to support individuals going through high conflict divorces, particularly those who are also special needs parents. She emphasized the importance of community and connection in the healing process, encouraging listeners to seek support and not to navigate these challenges alone.

Overall, this episode provided valuable insights into the intersection of trauma, high conflict relationships, and special needs parenting, offering hope and practical strategies for those in similar situations. Rachael’s expertise and personal experiences resonate deeply, making this a must-listen for anyone facing these challenges.

Rachael Dunkel-Dodier, MS, LCPC, LAC, HCDC, NBCC, CDWF a certified high-conflict divorce coach, founder of Bridger Peaks Counseling and solopreneur, with her Resilience to Rise Coaching business.

Rachael brings a unique combination of formal education and personal experience to help support women who are navigating divorces marked by addiction, abuse and narcissistic behaviors so they can get through one of the hardest experiences in life to be fully seen, honored and loved without shame or fear.

To learn more about Rachael and her program:

https://www.resiliencetorise.com
https://www.instagram.com/resiliencetorisecoaching/

Watch this episode on our YouTube channel!

The post Resilience To Rise | Empowering Special Needs Moms Through High-Conflict Divorce appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, I had a conversation with autism specialist, Katherine Scott about preparing for back to school. “Miss Kat,” a licensed marriage and family therapist, shared valuable insights on the struggles parents and children face during this time.

We discussed the pressures of success, challenges in school administration, bullying, and the impact of technology on children’s development. Miss Kat emphasized the importance of creating a peaceful and connected home environment, highlighting the significance of play in children’s development. She encouraged parents to trust their instincts, honor their children, and not get lost in societal judgments. This episode provides valuable advice and perspectives on navigating back to school season for neurodivergent families.

Check out the video version of this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@autismblueprint

Katherine Scott, M.Ed/Ed.S, LMFT,

Click here to meet Ms. Kat

Her children’s book: The Tale of A Trio

Buy on Amazon

Previous episodes with Ms. Kat:

The post Time For School! | Expert Tips To Set Up Your Neurodivergent Kiddo For Success | A conversation with Katherine Scott appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming Jan Stewart, a dedicated mother and advocate for neurodivergent individuals, back to the Autism Blueprint Podcast. Jan shared valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of raising her children, Andrew and Ainsley, who are now thriving in their respective careers.

Jan discussed the importance of preparing for the transition into adulthood for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the need for services and supports, including finding the right professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists. She highlighted the significance of legal guardianship and powers of attorney to ensure the well-being and protection of her children as they navigate adulthood.

The conversation delved into the critical aspects of financial planning and employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals. Jan shared her son Andrew’s journey to finding his dream job at Rogers Communications, emphasizing the importance of inclusive workplaces and customized accommodations for individuals with diverse needs.

Jan also provided valuable insights into maintaining a strong and supportive partnership with her husband, David, throughout the challenges of raising neurodivergent children. She emphasized the importance of open communication, mutual respect, and understanding in navigating the complexities of parenting.

Note: Some of our links are affiliate sponsorships; This means Autism Blueprint gets a small percentage of any sales generated by clicking the Amazon links. Thanks for your support!

Buy Kibbidea Knives on Amazon 

Buy Jan’s Book: Hold On Tight

Meet Jan Stewart

Jan Stewart is a highly regarded neurodiversity advocate, author, speaker and parent. Her award-winning memoir Hold on Tight is brutally honest and describes her emotional roller coaster journey raising two children with multiple mental health and neuro-developmental disorders. Her mission is to inspire and empower caregivers to have hope and persevere, as well as to better educate their families, friends, health care professionals, educators and employers.

Jan chairs the Board of Directors at Kerry’s Place Autism Services, which is Canada’s largest autism services provider, is a Today’s Parent columnist on autism and was previously ViceChair at Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. She spent most of her career as a senior Partner with the global executive search firm Egon Zehnder. Jan is a Diamond Life Master in bridge and enjoys fitness, genealogy and dance.

The post How To Be A Forever Parent | Empowering adult children with disabilities | A conversation with Jan Stewart appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, host Janeen Herskovitz, welcomes author and advocate Jan Stewart to share her journey of raising children with mental health and neuro-developmental disorders. Jan Stewart’s award-winning memoir, “Hold on Tight, A Parent’s Journey Raising Children with Mental Illness,” serves as a guide for parents navigating similar challenges.

Janeen and Jan discuss the importance of perseverance and embracing medications and therapy as powerful tools in supporting neurodivergent children. They touch on the significance of respite care and the need for parents to prioritize self-care and seek support from other parents facing similar struggles.

The conversation delves into the complexities of marriage when raising neurodivergent children, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and shared responsibilities between partners. They also highlight the evolution of awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity over the years, while acknowledging the ongoing need for advocacy and education.

Note: These podcast show notes include affiliate links to recommended products and services.

Jan Stewart is a highly regarded neurodiversity advocate, author, speaker and parent. Her award-winning memoir Hold on Tight is brutally honest and describes her emotional roller coaster journey raising two children with multiple mental health and neuro-developmental disorders. Her mission is to inspire and empower caregivers to have hope and persevere, as well as to better educate their families, friends, health care professionals, educators and employers.

Jan chairs the Board of Directors at Kerry’s Place Autism Services, which is Canada’s largest autism services provider, is a Today’s Parent columnist on autism and was previously ViceChair at Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. She spent most of her career as a senior Partner with the global executive search firm Egon Zehnder. Jan is a Diamond Life Master in bridge and enjoys fitness, genealogy and dance.

The post Buckle Up! Embracing the Twists and Turns of Neurodiversity Parenting | A conversation with author and advocate Jan Stewart appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, we’re in the home office speaking with Lisa Gomez, the Assistant Secretary for Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA). Lisa shared valuable insights into how EBSA works to protect the retirement and health plans of American workers and their families.

Throughout the episode, Lisa discussed the mission of EBSA, which is to ensure the security of retirement, health, and other job-based benefits. She highlighted the importance of mental health parity and how EBSA is working to improve insurance coverage and access to treatments and therapies for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders.

Lisa shared heartwarming success stories where EBSA‘s interventions led to the removal of exclusions for ABA therapy in health plans, benefiting thousands of families. She also addressed the challenges faced by mental health providers in accepting insurance due to low reimbursement rates and stringent requirements.

If your family is having difficulty navigating your insurance or if you have an issue that your insurance will not remedy, reach out to EBSA for assistance at 1-866-444-3272

Resources and more information on how to contact a benefits advisor can be found on the EBSA website:

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/ask-a-question/ask-ebsa

Lisa emphasized the agency’s commitment to helping families access the care they need and urged individuals to advocate for their rights and seek help when facing insurance-related challenges.

Lisa Gomez, Assistant Secretary for Employee Benefits Security Administration

Lisa M. Gomez was sworn in as Assistant Secretary for Employee Benefits Security on October 11, 2022. She has deep technical and practical experience in the multifaceted field of employee benefits law and has spent almost three decades representing various Taft-Hartley and multi-employer pension and welfare plans, single employer plans, jointly administered training program trust funds, a federal employees health benefit (FEHB) plan, supplemental health plans, and VEBAs covering employees in a wide array of industries.

The post Understanding Insurance Coverage for Autism: A conversation with Lisa Gomez of the EBSA appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

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.

• Meg’s Book: Becoming UNSILENCED: Surviving and Fighting the Troubled Teen Industry
• Unsilenced 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: @megappelgate
• www.megappelgate.com

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.

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

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.

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.

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)

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.

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