Autism Blueprint Podcast

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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 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.

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!

_______________________________________________________________________________

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

_______________________________________________________________________________

Ever wished for a space where Neurodivergents and parents could come together, away from the chaos of the world?  Well, it’s here! The EndeeSphere App is our safe harbor. 

It’s more than an app; it’s a community for us, by us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, pre-diagnosis, or anywhere on your journey, this is where you belong. 

If you want clarity, direction, support, and to feel unstuck in navigating your life and journey – this structured support app is absolutely for you!

 Why EndeeSphere? It’s a space dedicated to our needs, offering support, guidance, and connection in a world that often overlooks us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, or just starting your journey, EndeeSphere is here for you.

 Premium Membership Perks:

The best part? It’s FREE to download!  But, the real magic is in the premium membership. Group coaching, neuro-affirming guides, meditations, and so much more for just £4.99/month or £39.99/year – that’s as little as £0.77 or $1 a week!  (That’s around $6/month or $49/year in American dollars.)

I’m an EndeeSphere Ambassador, and using my link below not only gets you in but supports my journey too. Let’s navigate this together. Join us now! 

The post Understanding Neurodivergent Needs | A conversation with Miss Kat | with Katherine Scott, LMFT appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

In today’s episode, we’re traveling overseas to chat with a special guest, Jude Morrow, a renowned autism advocate and author. Jude shares his personal journey from the medical model of disability to the neurodiversity lens, and how it has shaped his work in advocating for the rights and dignity of neurodivergent individuals.

We discuss the importance of embracing neurodiversity, the challenges faced by autistic women and girls in obtaining accurate diagnoses, and the need for a shift in language and perception surrounding autism and intellectual disability.

Jude also introduces us to the EndeeSphere app, a revolutionary social media platform designed to connect and support parents of neurodivergent children and neurodivergent adults. He highlights the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for like-minded individuals to share experiences, gain knowledge, and improve mental health.

So sit back, relax, and join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the world of neurodiversity and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of every individual.

• Jude’s Books and Accidental Entry into Autism Advocacy 
• Shift in Attitudes Towards Autism and Neurodiversity
• Challenges with Access to Autism Therapies
• Importance of Autistic Voices in Advocacy
• The Impact of Labeling and Language on Identity
• Challenging the Concept of “Disordered” Individuals
• Recognizing and Supporting Intellectual Disability
• The Importance of Inclusive Support for All Neurodivergent Individuals
• The Purpose and Benefits of the EndeeSphere App

Ever wished for a space where Neurodivergents and parents could come together, away from the chaos of the world? Well, it’s here! The EndeeSphere App is our safe harbor.

It’s more than an app; it’s a community for us, by us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, pre-diagnosis, or anywhere on your journey, this is where you belong.

If you want clarity, direction, support, and to feel unstuck in navigating your life and journey – this structured support app is absolutely for you!

Why EndeeSphere? It’s a space dedicated to our needs, offering support, guidance, and connection in a world that often overlooks us. Whether you’re an ND adult, a parent, or just starting your journey, EndeeSphere is here for you.

Premium Membership Perks:

• Group coaching tailored for carers and adults.
• Downloadable neuro-affirming resources.
• Structured content flow for consistent growth and wins.

The best part? It’s FREE to download! But, the real magic is in the premium membership. Group coaching, neuro-affirming guides, meditations, and so much more for just £4.99/month or £39.99/year – that’s as little as £0.77 or $1 a week! (That’s around $6/month or $49/year in American dollars.)

I’m an EndeeSphere Ambassador, and using my link below not only gets you in but supports my journey too. Let’s navigate this together. Join us now!

Sometimes the journey to well-being feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. Welcome to the peer network, where connection meets compassion through telehealth peer support. At the peer network, their certified peer support specialists are more than just trained professionals. They are individuals who have walked their own path of recovery and resilience. They understand, because they’ve been there.

Imagine having someone who listens relates and supports you through your unique challenges whether it’s managing stress, navigating life, transitions, or fostering mental wellness. Their peer support is here for you accessible from the comfort of your home their telehealth platform brings you a personalized support experience it’s confidential, flexible and centered around your needs and schedule.

It’s time to embrace a new kind of support; One that’s rooted in empathy and shared experiences and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Visit the peer network.com today and begin your journey with a companion who truly gets it.

The Peer Network: where every step forward is a step together.

Jude Morrow is an Autistic motivational speaker, TEDx Speaker, author, former social worker and the founder of Neurodiversity Training International and the EndeeSphere App.

• Loving Your Place on the Spectrum: A Neurodiversity Blueprint

• Why Does Daddy Always Look So Sad?

The post Breaking the Stigma | Redefining Autism & Celebrating Neurodiversity| A conversation with Jude Morrow appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Today we’re in your wallet, talking about the complex issue of autism and consumerism.

When parents are vulnerable and faced with consumerism while trying to find the right care for their child, the results can be financially and emotionally devastating. In this episode Janeen shares her experience and what to look out for on your journey.

The post Take My Money, Fix My Kid | When consumerism and autism collide; How to avoid the pitfalls appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Today we’re in the family room talking about support from extended family and friends. It’s not an easy task for autism families to get the support we need from the people we love. This episode is designed to share with them and make it a bit easier.

This is a replay. The original episode aired 8/3/2022

Sometimes the journey to well-being feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. Welcome to the peer network, where connection meets compassion through telehealth peer support. At the peer network, their certified peer support specialists are more than just trained professionals. They are individuals who have walked their own path of recovery and resilience. They understand, because they’ve been there.

Imagine having someone who listens relates and supports you through your unique challenges whether it’s managing stress, navigating life, transitions, or fostering mental wellness. Their peer support is here for you accessible from the comfort of your home their telehealth platform brings you a personalized support experience it’s confidential, flexible and centered around your needs and schedule.

It’s time to embrace a new kind of support; One that’s rooted in empathy and shared experiences and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Visit the peer network.com today and begin your journey with a companion who truly gets it.

The Peer Network: where every step forward is a step together.

• What inhibits family and friends from reaching out.
• How you can address difficult conversations.
• How autism can affect a family and why we need support.
• Some helpful guidelines for family and friends.

• National Autism Association
• Barry Prizant’s Podcast
• Uniquely Human Book
• Naoki Higashida
• Stephen Shore
• Temple Grandin

The post REPLAY: What Autism Parents Wish You Knew | An Episode To Share With Extended Family & Friends appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

Sometimes the journey to well-being feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. Welcome to the peer network, where connection meets compassion through telehealth peer support. At the peer network, their certified peer support specialists are more than just trained professionals. They are individuals who have walked their own path of recovery and resilience. They understand, because they’ve been there.

Imagine having someone who listens relates and supports you through your unique challenges whether it’s managing stress, navigating life, transitions, or fostering mental wellness. Their peer support is here for you accessible from the comfort of your home their telehealth platform brings you a personalized support experience it’s confidential, flexible and centered around your needs and schedule.

It’s time to embrace a new kind of support; One that’s rooted in empathy and shared experiences and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Visit the peer network.com today and begin your journey with a companion who truly gets it.

The Peer Network: where every step forward is a step together.

We’re in the therapy office today talking with Kurt Schmidt, founder of The Peer Network. We’ll be diving into how addiction and substance misuse are difficult issues particularly for spectrum and neurodivergent families, as well as how to get affordable, convenient support.

• What is Peer Support and how it helps.
• The risk factors for addiction and substance misuse
• How peer support differs from traditional therapy

• Get started with Peer Support from the comfort of your home: ThePeerNetwork.com offers services that are easily accessible online. There is no requirement for app downloads. All that is needed is an internet connection.
  

Kurt, the innovative creator of ThePeerNetwork.com, passionately focuses on improving peer support for those tackling mental health and substance use issues. With an MBA, MSW, and LMSW certification, he brings a rich blend of academic expertise and real-world experience as a Certified Peer Support Specialist. His commitment to enhancing community wellness is evident.

Residing in Missouri with his wife Melinda and their two daughters, Kurt is deeply involved in enriching mental health support networks, making a significant difference in many lives.

The post Substance Use & Addiction In Neurdivergent Families | A conversation with Kurt Schmidt of The Peer Network appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.

We’re in the workplace today talking with cofounder and COO, Tom D’Eri.  Tom shares his experience growing up with an autistic brother and helping to create a sustainable employment opportunity for him and so many others.

Tom D’Eri has dedicated his career to unleashing human potential by creating organizational systems and culture that empower people to grow. Tom is the Co-Founder and COO of Rising Tide Car Wash, an organization that employs over 90 individuals with autism in a successful car wash business. Tom is a Forbes 30 Under 30 social entrepreneur and is the author of The Power of Potential: How a Non-Traditional Workforce Can Lead You to Run Your Business Better.

The post Autism and Employment | How one family created a successful business model that employs individuals on the spectrum appeared first on Puzzle Peace Counseling.