Rebecca is a mental health counsellor in Australia. Diagnosed at 47 — with level-two autism and ADHD combined type — she shares her story of self-recognition, complex emotions around diagnosis, and the challenges of navigating neurodivergence in both personal and professional life.

Rebecca reflects on masking, internalized ableism, and how people-pleasing tendencies developed as survival strategies. The conversation also explores her work as a counsellor and how parenting neurodivergent children has shaped her own self-understanding.

Topics explored include:

• The slow unmasking process
• How late autism diagnosis reframes childhood memories and identity
• Parenting with empathy
• Avoiding the pitfalls of compliance culture
• The nuanced relationship between sensitivity, empathy, and strength
• Disbelief from healthcare professionals and the impact of diagnostic invalidation

Watch this episode on YouTube.

Rebecca recommends these resources:

Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q)

Embrace Autism website

Is This Autism? — A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else by Donna Henderson and Sarah Wayland, with Jamell White

The Neurodivergent Woman podcast

Theme music: "Everything Feels New" by Evgeny Bardyuzha.

All episodes written and produced by Kristen Hovet.

Send in your questions or thoughts via audio or video recording for a chance to be featured on the show! Email your audio or video clips to [email protected] through WeTransfer.

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The views, opinions, and experiences shared by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. The content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or professional advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to your health, fitness, or wellness.