Divergent Dialogues

In this thought-provoking episode of Divergent Dialogues, Caitlin and Teena delve into Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), a profound emotional experience that resonates with many neurodivergent individuals. They explore the intense reactions to perceived or actual rejection and criticism, unpacking how RSD can ripple into social interactions and relationships.

Through personal reflections and professional insights, they discuss:

• The challenges of navigating relationships with heightened sensitivity.
• The influence of societal messaging and gender on perceptions of rejection.
• Practical strategies for fostering clear communication, setting boundaries, and creating mutual understanding in relationships.

Whether you’re navigating your own RSD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a compassionate lens and actionable takeaways to deepen understanding and connection.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

Join Caitlin, Teena, and special guest Jenifer Breaux as they dive into the intersection of neurodiversity and travel. From navigating family trips with neurodivergent children to reframing vacation expectations, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring stories.

Discover how Jenifer empowers families to explore the world with confidence. Learn about the magic of social stories, sensory-friendly accommodations, and finding balance between adventure and downtime. Plus, hear about her free ebook, "The Ultimate Top 10 Travel Tips," and how her business, JB Travel Pros, makes travel dreams come true!

Jenifer Breaux is a retired army veteran who served almost three decades. During her time in the army she served the United States all over the world. Through those experiences she gained a love of service and travel. She excelled in her training and retired with honor. Six years ago she opened a franchise of Dream Vacations called JB Travel Pros, where she helps people travel the world with excitement. From coast to coast, Jenifer designs luxury experiences that bring her client's dreams to life. Her love for globe trotting is something she shares with her family, as well. As the mother of two amazing young men who both are on the autism spectrum. Jenifer has become an advocate for families and caregivers of special needs children. 

For more information about Jenifer check out her website:

• https://www.iamjeniferbreaux.com/

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

Join Caitlin and Teena for Episode #27 of Divergent Dialogues as they explore the pressing issue of autistic and ADHD burnout. They highlight the unique signs of burnout experienced by neurodivergent individuals and share invaluable strategies for recognising and managing these challenges. Through personal anecdotes, Caitlin and Teena offer insight into their journeys, underscoring the importance of self-awareness, boundary setting, and mindfulness. They discuss practical tools like emotion tracking apps and emphasise the significance of a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re navigating your own path or supporting loved ones, this episode offers empathetic guidance and professional advice. Don’t miss this thoughtful exploration—tune in to gain understanding and learn how to incorporate preventive measures into your everyday life.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

In this enlightening episode of the Divergent Dialogues podcast, Teena and Caitlin explore the complexities of burnout in neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD and autism. They discuss balancing personal needs with societal expectations, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and redefining success beyond traditional productivity. The discussion covers societal pressures that exacerbate burnout, offering personal anecdotes and insights to emphasise empathy and support. They provide practical strategies for managing burnout and its impact on relationships and daily life. The episode also addresses the mental drain of 'doom scrolling' and the need for conscious content consumption, alongside relaxation techniques. As Teena and Caitlin share their journey, they offer strategies for dealing with masking, holiday pressures, and the importance of deep rest and rejuvenation. Join us for a heartfelt discussion aimed at fostering understanding and providing actionable advice for navigating neurodivergence.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

⚠️ Content Warning: Discussion of self-harm

Please note: Around 12:26, Chris said: "For those of us who have these multiple exceptionalities, it's a very lonely experience. And the thing about Dabrowski that is so amazing to me is that he had this experience. The episode we recorded with Caitlin, Emma brought up this book he wrote and how he says about himself, "I'm a psychiatrist and a psychologist," and he's grappling with these two parts of himself." What Chris meant was, "I am a psychologist and a schizophrenic." In the book Fragments From the Diary of a Madman, under his pseudonym, Cienin, Dabrowski wrote, "I am a schizophrenic and I am a psychologist. I do not know what helps what or what damages what." You can download the excerpt Chris was referring to here: https://dabrowskicenter.org/.../2024/10/Cienin-excerpt.pdf

In this episode, Caitlin and Teena are joined by special guests Dr Chris Wells and Emma Nicholson from the Positive Disintegration Podcast! They dive deep into their personal experiences with Positive Disintegration, discussing the unique challenges of being multi-exceptional and the importance of recognising Giftedness as a form of neurodivergence. Tune in as they explore how to support neurodivergence and overexcitabilities in individuals while fostering their growth and development. Discover how the Theory of Positive Disintegration fits within the neurodiversity paradigm. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!

If you're new to the Theory of Positive Disintegration check out Dabrowski 101, An Introduction to the Theory of Positive Disintegration

Chris Wells, PhD, LSW, is a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent individuals, drawing on personal experience and a deep understanding of Dąbrowski's theory of positive disintegration. As a writer, guide, and committed Dąbrowski scholar, Chris explores how this transformative theory can contribute to personal growth and a deeper understanding of giftedness and neurodivergence. They serve as the founding president of the Dąbrowski Center and co-host the Positive Disintegration Podcast, where they aim to make this complex theory more accessible and relevant to everyday life. Chris writes for the Positive Disintegration newsletter on Substack, sharing insights that blend professional expertise with lived experience. 

Emma is a senior business analyst by day, and content creator by night. She is the Vice President of the Dąbrowski Center, co-host of the Positive Disintegration Podcast, and creates content on overexcitabilities and the theory of positive disintegration for her website Tragic Gift and YouTube channel Adults With Overexcitabilities. Exploring problems and finding solutions is her daily bread and butter, and she has a knack for simplifying technical information so it can be easily shared with others. She is also a creative soul, with zero cares about sharing skeletons in the closet, if it will help someone else. Most importantly, she has an un-killable passion for promoting the theory of positive disintegration to help people feel supported and understood.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

Join Caitlin and Teena in this insightful podcast episode as they dive deep into the complexities of meltdowns. They share personal stories, emphasising the significance of recognising triggers, communication, and the power of seeking support. Caitlin sheds light on how meltdowns are physiological responses to sensory and emotional overload. Together, they explore the challenges of travel, the importance of downtime, and practical strategies. This candid conversation highlights the necessity of empathy and understanding, underscoring that asking for help is a true strength. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that aims to foster a non-judgmental approach to supporting those who experience meltdowns.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

Join Caitlin and Teena as they dive deep into the intriguing world of Alexithymia—exploring why identifying and expressing emotions can be particularly challenging for Autistic folks and ADHDers. They unravel the connection between Alexithymia and Interoception, shedding light on how our bodies signal emotions and its impact on emotional regulation. Plus, they take a fascinating look at the evolution of ADHD diagnoses over history and the vital need for support in developing emotional regulation skills.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by special guest Marisa and they dive into the intersections of neurodivergence, gender identity, and sexuality, shedding light on the unique perspectives and challenges faced by both their clients and themselves. They discuss the pathologisation of differences, the importance of authenticity, and the complexities of societal acceptance for neurodiverse individuals. The conversation highlights the negative impact of shame and normativity in workplaces and society, advocating for a more accepting and forgiving majority to promote diverse and authentic ways of being and living.

Caitlin and Marisa share their experiences of feeling out of place in their social contexts growing up and explain how social systems shaped their perspectives. They emphasise the importance of finding congruence between one's inner self and outer presentation and the value of being recognised and accepted for one's true identity. Both discuss their personal journeys toward embracing their authentic selves, with Marisa highlighting the Butoh dance form as a pivotal moment in self-discovery and Caitlin reflecting on their own process of embodied self-discovery.

Marisa works as an artist-writer, academic and psychotherapist. They occupy a bodymind which was late-diagnosed twice-exceptional (autistic and gifted), and agender. They are interested in the ways that dominant visual, social and economic systems change the ways in which we relate to our inner landscape, and to each other. They particularly enjoy working with people who are interfacing with new and emerging problems that come with this contemporary age. Their work can be found at www.full-saturation.com which is populated with slow writing about aesthetic engagement under capitalism. 

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Caitlin and Teena had an insightful discussion on Pervasive Demand for Autonomy (PDA) and its impact on Autistic individuals' daily lives. Caitlin shared her personal experiences, highlighting challenges like sensory sensitivities and navigating societal norms. They addressed misdiagnosis and misunderstanding of PDA, stressing the need for neurodivergent affirming research. PDA involves a strong need for control, a desire for sameness, and avoidance of everyday demands. Caitlin, who identifies with PDA, emphasised its deeply personal nature. They explored daily pressures, including sensory and executive functioning issues, and difficulties faced by undiagnosed or misunderstood individuals. They noted how intolerance to uncertainty and anxiety can lead to extreme demand avoidance in children and adolescents with PDA. Overall, their conversation underscored the need for greater awareness and tailored support for Autistic individuals with PDA.

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

Caitlin and Teena were joined by special guest Rebecca Vitsmun in this engaging episode, where they dived deep into discussions about hyperphantasia, neurodivergent parenting, and the link between Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and Autism. The trio reflects on the experience of hyperphantasia, discussing its role in relaxation and reframing this experience for better mental health. They also delve into the nuances of neurodivergent parenting, sharing insights on nurturing children’s unique abilities and creating supportive environments. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative conversation that highlights the creative potential and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.

Rebecca Vitsmun is a unique voice hoping to advocate for her community and spread positive awareness of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), hyperphantasia, Autism, and other “invisible” disabilities. Rebecca has authored Eliza Dee’s Universes which is an uplifting and adventurous tale that can help parents and children alike to embrace their unique traits and creatively visualise disabilities in a new and beautiful way. As an Autistic mother with Neurodivergent children, Vitsmun was inspired by her personal experiences to provide an accessible story that inspires creative imagination in readers of all ages and backgrounds.

To find out more about Rebecca check out the links below:

• https://www.instagram.com/rvitsmun
• https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaFinchVitsmun
• https://rebeccavitsmun.com/

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth