In this episode, Sarah Stewart from the PDA Society is joined by Laura Hellfeld, an independent nurse, sleep consultant and PDA adult, to explore why sleep difficulties are so common for PDA children and adults, and what can help.

Laura brings both professional and lived experience to the conversation. She works extensively with families around daily living skills, including sleep, eating, hygiene and transitions, and she is also a parent to PDA children herself. Together, Sarah and Laura discuss how sleep challenges are often one of the most persistent and exhausting difficulties faced by PDA families.

The conversation looks at why sleep can feel so hard, including the role of anxiety, nervous system regulation, demand sensitivity and sensory differences. Laura explains how traditional sleep advice often does not work for PDAers, and why approaches that rely on control, routine or external pressure can increase distress rather than improve rest.

Part 1 focuses on understanding the underlying reasons behind sleep difficulties in PDA, and reframing sleep not as a behaviour problem, but as a nervous system issue that requires safety, flexibility and compassion.

Key Themes

• Why sleep difficulties are so common for PDA children and adults
• The link between anxiety, nervous system regulation and sleep
• Why traditional sleep strategies often do not work for PDAers
• Reframing sleep challenges as a need for safety rather than compliance
• The impact of poor sleep on the whole family

Deep Diver Subscriber Episode

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, is available through our Training Hub.
You can access it here:
https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
• PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

Content warning

This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts. In particular, there is a brief section between 6:50 and 7:10 that listeners may wish to approach with care. Please listen in a way that feels safe and supportive for you.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, is a severe form of PMS that causes significant emotional and physical symptoms during the 1-2 weeks before menstruation. Symptoms include severe mood swings, anxiety, and depression, which can negatively impact daily life, work, and relationships. Physical symptoms like bloating, headaches, and fatigue are also common.

In this episode, PDA Society speaks with Kirstie McStay, Community Manager at Spectrum Gaming, about PMDD, exploring how cyclical hormonal changes can affect mood, wellbeing and daily functioning. 

The conversation looks at how PMDD can impact relationships, work and self-perception, particularly when symptoms shift dramatically across the month. It also highlights the importance of being believed, tracking patterns, and recognising that what can look like a sudden change in behaviour or mood may be connected to hormonal cycles and a very real health condition.

Key Themes

• What PMDD is and how it differs from PMS
• Emotional and physical symptoms that can affect daily life
• Tracking cyclical patterns and noticing early warning signs
• The importance of being believed and supported

Deep Diver Subscriber Episode

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, is available through our Training Hub.
You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Training: www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

Guest’s links:

• Spectrum Gaming on trauma: www.spectrumgaming.net/resources/categories/understanding-trauma
• Spectrum Gaming on PMDD: www.spectrumgaming.net/post/supporting-autistic-young-people-with-pmdd
• Kirstie’s PMDD webinar resources: padlet.com/spectrumgaming/pmdd

In this episode, the PDA Society begins a clear and accessible exploration of PANS and PANDAS, conditions that can cause sudden and significant changes in a child or young person’s behaviour, emotional wellbeing and functioning.

Although not linked with PDA, some of the presenting characteristics can be similar, making diagnosis and treatment difficult.

The conversation focuses on what PANS and PANDAS are, how they may present, and why they are often misunderstood or missed. Listeners are guided through common signs, including rapid onset anxiety, changes in behaviour, emotional distress and difficulties with everyday activities. The episode highlights how confusing and frightening this experience can be for families, particularly when changes appear to happen out of the blue.

Part1 lays the groundwork for understanding PANS and PANDAS, offering families and professionals a calm, compassionate starting point for recognising concerns and seeking appropriate support.

Note that PANDAS in this context refers to a medical condition (Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections). This is entirely different from the PANDA mnemonic used in PDA Society training.

Key Themes

• What PANS and PANDAS are and how they can present
• Sudden changes in behaviour, anxiety and emotional wellbeing
• Why PANS and PANDAS are often misunderstood or overlooked
• The impact on families when changes feel sudden and unexplained

Deep Diver Subscriber Episode

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, is available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
• PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

External Links:

• Romy's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChronicAdvocate
• Romy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronic.advocate/
• PANS PANDAS UK: https://panspandasuk.org/

In this episode, Rachel from the PDA Society speaks with Julia Daunt, an adult PDAer, author and trainer, about the experience and meaning of distressed behaviours.

Drawing on her personal insight and professional experience, Julia explains what distressed behaviours look and feel like from the inside. She discusses the difference between being in control and feeling overwhelmed, and how anxiety, sensory sensitivities and unmet needs can lead to behaviours that are often misunderstood.

Rachel and Julia explore how reframing distressed behaviours through empathy and understanding can support more positive responses from families, schools and professionals. This conversation offers a powerful reminder that what looks challenging from the outside is often an expression of fear, pain or overload.

Key Themes

• Understanding distressed behaviours from a PDA perspective
• The role of anxiety, fear and overwhelm in triggering behaviours
• The importance of empathy and curiosity in response
• Moving away from behaviour management towards emotional safety
• Recognising the difference between control and distress

Deep Diver Subscriber Episode

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, will be available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
• PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

Guests links:

• Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JuliaDauntPDA
• Blog: https://memyselfandpda.com/

In this episode, PDA Society CEO Ed speaks with Suzanne McManus, an editorial leader and creative professional, who joins the podcast to share her personal experience as the parent of a PDA child.

Suzanne reflects on the steep learning curve of parenting when traditional approaches don’t fit, and how she had to unlearn familiar ideas about authority, control and compliance. She discusses the shift from managing behaviour to understanding anxiety and autonomy, and how connection, trust and humour have become the foundations of her parenting.

Through warmth and honesty, Suzanne offers reassurance to parents who may be feeling isolated or unsure, highlighting the importance of community and self-compassion along the way.

Key Themes

• Parenting a PDA child through understanding and flexibility
• Letting go of traditional ideas about authority and control
• Replacing behaviour management with empathy and curiosity
• Building trust, humour and connection in family life
• Finding reassurance and community as a PDA parent

Deep Diver Subscriber Episode

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, will be available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
• PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

In this episode, Rachel and guest Julia Daunt begin an open and thoughtful conversation about puberty and PDA, exploring how hormonal, physical and emotional changes can intensify anxiety and demand sensitivity during this stage of development.

The discussion looks at how puberty can affect PDA profiles in ways that are often misunderstood or overlooked. Listeners are guided through common challenges including heightened emotional responses, sensory sensitivities, changes in body awareness and increasing demands around independence, social expectations and self-care.

This first part focuses on building understanding. It highlights why puberty can feel particularly destabilising for PDAers, and why behaviour changes at this stage are often a sign of overwhelm rather than defiance. The episode offers reassurance to parents and carers who may feel unsure how best to support their child during this complex transition.

· Why puberty can be especially challenging for PDAers

· The impact of hormonal changes on anxiety and regulation

· Increased sensory sensitivity and emotional intensity

· Understanding behaviour as communication during puberty

· Supporting safety, trust and connection through change

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, is available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

· PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

· PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

· PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/

· PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JuliaDauntPDA

Blog: https://memyselfandpda.com/

The books Julia mentioned in the episode are:

https://amzn.eu/d/8G7bjjo

https://amzn.eu/d/2thMLw3

In this episode, host Rachel is joined by Jenni Honeyben, a parenting coach with specialist experience in supporting families of PDA children. Together, they explore the idea of highly sensitive nervous systems - a trait particularly relevant to PDAers.

Jenni shares how heightened sensitivity affects children’s ability to cope with everyday demands, why safety and regulation are so important, and what parents and carers can do to help. Through practical examples and compassionate insight, she explains how understanding nervous system responses can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and create calmer family environments.

Topics Covered:

• What it means to have a highly sensitive nervous system
• Why this trait is particularly significant for PDA children
• How nervous system sensitivity influences anxiety and demand avoidance
• Practical ways to help children regulate and feel safe
• The role of co-regulation and connection in reducing stress
• Strategies for parents and carers to create calmer daily routines
• How small changes can make a big difference for family life

Deeper Dive Subscriber Episode
For those who’d like to go further, an exclusive “Deeper Dive” subscriber episode is available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA/autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information:

PDA Society training hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/

PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

Guests links:

Jenni Honeyben Parenting Support & Coaching  - http://www.jennihoneyben.com/

In this episode, PDA Society CEO Ed speaks with Clare Truman, educator, author and PhD researcher, about the experiences of PDA learners for whom school feels overwhelming or impossible.

Drawing on her extensive background in mainstream and specialist education, Clare shares compassionate, evidence-informed insights into why traditional school settings can be so challenging for PDA children and young people. She discusses how anxiety, sensory sensitivities and social expectations interact with the demand-avoidant profile, and how reframing behaviour through an understanding lens can transform outcomes.

With warmth and clarity, Clare offers practical examples of what can help, from flexible approaches to building trust and safety, to creative ways of meeting learning needs outside conventional classrooms. Whether you are a parent, educator or professional supporting PDA learners, this conversation provides both understanding and hope.

Key Themes

• Understanding why school can feel overwhelming for PDA learners
• The impact of anxiety and sensory sensitivities on attendance and engagement
• Rethinking behaviour through curiosity and compassion
• The importance of safety, trust and flexibility in learning environments
• Supporting education beyond traditional school settings

Deep Diver Subscriber Episode

For those who would like to go further, Part 2, an exclusive “Deep Diver” subscriber episode, will be available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
• PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

In this ep, CEO Ed Archer sits down with Beth Silcox, a qualified counsellor and specialist in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) advice. With experience spanning therapeutic counselling, education, and family advocacy, Beth brings a powerful mix of professional knowledge and lived experience as a parent of neurodivergent children.

Together, Ed and Beth explore the real-world challenges families face when navigating the SEND system – from understanding your child’s rights to finding the right kind of support. Beth breaks down the key services available to parents and carers, including local authority SENDIASS teams, and explains how families can access free, impartial guidance at every stage of their journey.

Listeners will gain practical insights into:

• How to approach your child’s school about additional support.
• What to expect from your local authority’s “local offer”.
• The role of SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice, and Support Services).
• What to do if your request for an Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment is declined — and how to manage the appeal process.
• Why combining legal understanding with empathy is crucial for empowering families.

Beth’s compassionate, informed perspective helps parents feel seen, supported, and equipped to advocate for their children — while also addressing the emotional toll the process can take.

Part 1 sets the scene for a deeper conversation in Part 2, where the discussion moves toward practical problem-solving, managing burnout, and sustaining hope through the SEND journey.

Deeper Dive Subscriber Episode
For those who’d like to go further, an exclusive “Deeper Dive” subscriber episode is available through our Training Hub. You can access it here: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA/autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information:

PDA Society training hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/

PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/

PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/

As a special bonus episode for the festive period, Dawn from Milestone Coaching joins us on the podcast to talk through relaxation and breathwork techniques to help you when times are stressful.

We’ll also be releasing a ten-minute body scan meditation session on all our podcast platforms, as well as a Soundbath episode from Forgotten Forest, available for free to subscribers on our website. You can find more details here: PDA Podcasts - PDA Society

About our guest:

I’m Dawn, the coach and trainer at Milestone Training & Coaching Company. For me, there is nothing more rewarding than watching the incredible transformations in my clients - seeing adults and teenagers break free from self-doubt, shift their mindset, and step into their true potential drives me and is the reason I get up in the morning.

I live in Axford, North Hampshire, with my husband, two sons, and two springer spaniels. I am often out running or walking in the woodlands nearby with my two Spaniels, my husband, or my few close running friends. I love nature, and staying active, healthy, and fit is very important for me.

Socialising and connecting with my family and friends keeps my mental health strong, and my hunger for constantly learning new approaches in my life, and for the clients I work with, keeps me fulfilled, fresh, and very busy.

Qualifications and Training

• Life Coaching Diploma with the Life Coaching Academy, Europe’s Leading Coaching Organisation
• NLP Practitioner (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology
• Counselling Skills & CBT Trained
• Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) - Level 2
• Samaritan Volunteer Listener

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.

Further sources of support and information:

• PDA Society Training Hub: https://training.pdasociety.org.uk/pda-podcasts/
• PDA Society Website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
• PDA Society Training: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/training/
• PDA Society Support Service: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/support/