A Parent's Guide to Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

In this episode, we sit down with Maria Gregory, LEP and Guy Hernandez, LMFT of TheraTree Community for a nuanced, clinically grounded conversation about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)—also referred to as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy—and what this profile can look like in real children, families, and schools.
For parents who may be encountering PDA for the first time, Maria and Guy break down how a PDA profile differs from more familiar presentations of anxiety, oppositional behavior, or behavioral noncompliance. They explore why PDA is not currently recognized as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM or ICD, and how this lack of formal classification can create confusion for families seeking answers and appropriate support.
Maria and Guy share how clinicians can thoughtfully identify PDA traits without relying on a formal diagnostic label, including the professional frameworks, theories, and clinical patterns that tend to emerge during evaluation. They also address an ongoing debate in the field: whether PDA is exclusive to autism or whether it can exist outside of an ASD diagnosis.
Throughout the episode, the conversation highlights common misconceptions and misdiagnoses, including ways children with a PDA profile are often misunderstood by well-meaning adults and systems that rely on traditional behavior management approaches.
Maria and Guy explain how recognizing PDA traits shapes therapeutic goals and strategies, emphasizing approaches that prioritize safety, autonomy, and nervous system regulation. 
Finally, the episode explores the school context, including common barriers within educational systems, frequent misunderstandings by teams, and accommodations or approaches that can meaningfully reduce conflict and support engagement for students with PDA traits.
This episode is especially relevant for parents, clinicians, and educators seeking a deeper, more compassionate understanding of PDA—and practical guidance for supporting children whose needs do not fit neatly into traditional diagnostic or intervention frameworks.

You can learn more about TheraTree's services at:

theratreecommunity.com

(925) 378-9456

Learn more about the Bylund Clinic at:

bylundclinic.com

(925) 418-4661

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you have concerns about your child's or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

In this episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, we sit down with Damien B. Troutman, Senior Associate at the Leigh Law Group, to explore the complex and often overwhelming process of limited conservatorships. Damien brings years of experience working in employment law, special education law, disciplinary matters such as suspensions and expulsions, as well as disability law, Regional Center advocacy, and cases involving adults with disabilities.
Together, we break down the essentials for parents and caregivers:

• What a limited conservatorship is, and how it differs from other conservatorships
• The distinction between conservatorship of the person versus the estate
• Why parents may consider a limited conservatorship as their child with disabilities turns 18
• An overview of the process, timeline, and court involvement
• Common misconceptions families often have
• The connection between conservatorship planning, financial planning, and future stability

Damien shares practical guidance on when families should begin preparing, and steps that can make the process more manageable. Parents will leave with a clearer understanding of their options, the role of the court, and where to turn for support.
For more information on Damien Troutman’s work, visit Leigh Law Group or call 1-(800) 424-5297.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

In this episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, Dr. James Bylund talks with Alex Basche, LMFT, a leading therapist specializing in technology addiction and digital overuse. Together they explore how to distinguish heavy screen use from true addiction, why neurodivergent youth (ADHD, autism) often engage with gaming differently, and what evidence-based strategies can help families restore balance. Alex shares practical tools for parents—including family media plans, activity menus, and guidance on when (and how) a “detox” may be useful.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or professional, this conversation offers concrete steps for supporting kids and teens in developing healthier relationships with screens.

About Our Guest

Alex Basche is a Bay Area psychotherapist who has dedicated nearly 15 years to working with children, adolescents, and families. He is recognized for his specialization in technology addiction and digital overuse, co-founding California’s first in-network Intensive Outpatient Program for adolescent tech addiction in 2017.

Alex’s approach is holistic and strength-based, focusing not only on mental and emotional health but also on sleep, nutrition, exercise, and social support systems. He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based approaches, DBT, ACT, Gestalt, and Gottman Therapy, tailoring interventions to each client with evidence-based methods.

He has authored over 200+ therapy group sessions on topics ranging from social skills to trauma-related anxiety, and has led specialized PTSD treatment groups for preteens. His teaching and training extend across California through workshops on process addictions, adolescent anxiety and depression, and parenting in the digital age.

Learn more at: resetfromtech.com

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

In this episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, we take on a topic that leaves many parents feeling stuck: understanding the real difference between Intellectual Disability (ID) and Specific Learning Disability (SLD). These labels carry important implications for how schools provide support—but they’re not always applied accurately. We break down what IQ scores really measure, what adaptive functioning means in everyday life, and why students with lower conceptual reasoning skills and persistent academic struggles may be misidentified. We also discuss how special education law (IDEA) doesn’t always reflect the full clinical picture, especially when it comes to students who fall into the "gray zone" between diagnoses.

You’ll learn how schools make eligibility decisions, how these diagnoses affect long-term planning like diplomas and life skills training, and how cultural, racial, and linguistic biases (like the lasting effects of Larry P. in California) can result in inadequate or incomplete evaluations. Most importantly, we’ll walk you through what parents can do if they suspect their child’s needs are being misunderstood. Whether you’re in the middle of the IEP process or just starting to ask questions, this episode will help you advocate for a clearer path forward.

#SpecialEducation #BayAreaParents #IEPHelp #LearningDisabilities #IntellectualDisability #EducationalAssessment #ParentAdvocacy #Neurodiversity #BayAreaIEE #SLDorID #TheBylundClinic

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

In this episode, we continue our deep dive into screen dependency , exploring why children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or depression may be more susceptible and how to intervene when screen use starts impacting daily life.

We break down:

✔️ Signs of screen dependency – when tech use interferes with academics, relationships, and emotional well-being.

✔️ Why neurodiverse kids rely more on screens – understanding the link between ADHD, autism, anxiety, and excessive screen time.

✔️ The pros and cons of screen-based activities – when they offer a safe space vs. when they become problematic.

✔️ Treatment strategies – from setting family tech boundaries to seeking professional intervention.

If your child’s screen use feels overwhelming, this episode will help you recognize the warning signs and take the next steps toward a healthier balance.

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💬 Subscribe & Join the Conversation! Comment below with your thoughts on managing screen time for neurodiverse kids.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

#ScreenDependency, #NeurodiverseKids, #TechAddiction, #ScreenTimeLimits, #ADHDParenting, #AutismSupport, #ParentingTips, #MentalHealthAwareness, #DigitalDetox, #KidsAndScreens, #ParentingHacks, #ADHDSupport, #AutismAwareness, #ScreenTimeAddiction, #ParentingStruggles, #SocialMediaAddiction #TheBylundClinic

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming for parents, but with the right advocate, it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Dr. James Bylund sits down with Christina Maehr, a renowned special education advocate, to explore how parents can effectively navigate special education systems and secure the best services for their children with disabilities.

Christina shares her personal journey—from managing her own child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process to becoming a leading expert in dyslexia identification, school intervention strategies, and special education advocacy.

✅ What is a special education advocate, and how can they help parents navigate the system?

✅ Common roadblocks in IEP meetings and strategies to overcome them

✅ Why many children with dyslexia go unidentified in schools and how to address this issue

✅ How legal decisions impact special education rights and what parents should know

✅ Practical steps for parents to ensure their child receives the right support

This episode is packed with expert insights, real-life success stories, and practical advice—including how Christina helped a student make five years of academic progress in just one year!

If you're a parent, educator, or advocate, this conversation provides essential tools and knowledge to help you navigate special education with confidence.

🔍 Learn More About Our Clinic: https://thebylundclinic.com/

📅 Book a Consultation: https://thebylundclinic.com/contact-us/

💡 Read Our Blog for Parenting Insights: https://thebylundclinic.com/blog/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebylundclinic/🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VRLMX1l0l6JXzvRIC2BuX

🔔 Subscribe for more expert insights on navigating special education!

#SpecialEducationAdvocate #IEPProcessTips #DyslexiaIdentification #SpecialEducationAdvocacy #NavigatingIEPMeetings #SchoolInterventionStrategies #ParentGuideToSpecialEducation #DyslexiaInSchools #SpecialEducationRights #LegalDecisionsInSpecialEducation #IEPSuccessStories #SpecialEducationSupport #EducationAdvocacyForParents #HowToNavigateIEPs #DyslexiaAwareness #SchoolSupportForDyslexicStudents #SpecialEducationTools #ParentTipsSpecialEducation #EducationAdvocacyTips #ChristinaSpecialEducationAdvocate #MakingAcademicProgressInSpecialEd

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

Managing screen time can feel overwhelming, especially with ever-changing recommendations and evolving technology. In our latest episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, listen as we break down practical, research-based strategies to help you navigate screen use at home.
 What We Cover:

• How to set healthy screen time limits without constant battles
• Signs of problematic screen use and when to seek support
• Strategies for modeling balanced tech habits as parents
• The impact of screen time on sleep, mood, and academic success

This episode is packed with insights to help you create a sustainable, balanced approach to technology in your home.

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

In this episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, Dr. James Bylund sits down with Sean McCormick, founder of EF Specialists, to explore the essential role of executive functioning (EF) in a child’s academic and personal success.  Executive functioning includes critical life skills like organization, time management, task initiation, and self-regulation—skills that many children, particularly those with ADHD or autism, find challenging.

Sean shares his journey from special education teacher to global EF coach, offering practical advice for parents, educators, and clinicians on how to recognize and support EF deficits in children. He stresses that executive functioning isn’t just about improving classroom performance—it’s about fostering independence, confidence, and long-term success.

Together, Dr. Bylund and Sean discuss how comprehensive assessments can pinpoint EF challenges and why specific intervention strategies are essential for building a strong IEP. They also dive into the importance of advocating for systemic changes in schools, including Sean’s proposal to introduce EF standards in education to ensure these skills are explicitly taught across grade levels.

 Key Topics Discussed:
 (1) What are executive functioning skills, and how do they impact learning?
 (2) How can parents and teachers identify EF challenges and support children effectively?
 (3) Why independent educational assessments are critical for understanding EF deficits
(4) The role of proactive educators and parents in fostering EF skill development
(5) How EF coaching can benefit both children and adults

Sean emphasizes that modeling executive skills at home is one of the most effective ways parents can help their children. By making small changes in routines and expectations, families can see big improvements in self-organization and independence.

Sean’s work continues to evolve with the launch of Upskill Specialists, which focuses on EF coaching for adults, and the Executive Function Coaching Academy, which provides educators with tools to support students. The conversation closes with a call for more systemic change in education, encouraging schools to teach EF skills alongside academic subjects.

Whether you’re a parent navigating your child’s IEP, a teacher looking for practical classroom strategies, or a clinician supporting families, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately to help children build the skills they need for lifelong success. 

Resources Mentioned:
 Visit EF Specialists for articles, resources, and coaching tools.
 Subscribe to Sean’s newsletter for weekly tips on executive function strategies.
 Explore the Executive Function Coaching Academy to learn how to bring EF coaching into schools.

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

#ExecutiveFunction #ParentSupport #TeacherTips #ADHDAwareness #IEPGoals #SpecialEducationSupport #EducationalAssessments #NeurodiversityInEducation #ExecutiveFunctioningStrategies #ChildDevelopment #TheBylundClinicPodcast #EFCoaching #IEPSupport #LearningStrategies #SupportingAllLearners #ParentAdvocacy #TimeManagementSkills #AutismSupport #ADHDSupport

In this Bylund Clinic Podcast episode, Dr. Bylund and Ms. Morales take a deep dive into the science behind screen dependency in kids and its far-reaching effects on their mental, emotional, and academic development. This is Part 1 of a  series on screen time, designed to help parents understand the hidden mechanisms at play and provide evidence-based insights for raising healthy, balanced kids in the digital age.

In this episode, Dr. Bylund and Ms. Morales break down the psychological and neurological factors that make screens so captivating. From variable reward systems to the human need for social belonging, they reveal the intentional engineering that keeps kids glued to their devices.

You’ll also learn about:

• The cultural and societal pressures that make screen use feel unavoidable for families.
• How excessive screen time impacts kids’ ability to self-regulate, leading to struggles with focus, behavior, and emotional control.
• The growing body of research linking heavy screen use to challenges with aspects of cognitive functioning, academic skills, and social-emotional health.

This episode is perfect for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to better understand the unseen forces shaping their children’s relationship with technology.

Upcoming episodes will offer actionable advice for managing screens at home, navigating screen time for neurodivergent youth, and understanding the long-term effects of screens on family life.

Don’t miss out on this essential conversation! Subscribe to The Bylund Clinic Podcast to stay informed and empowered as a parent in today’s screen-saturated world. Let’s work together to create a healthier future for our kids.

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.

#ScreenTimeAwareness
#ParentingInTheDigitalAge
#ChildDevelopment
#MentalHealthMatters
#DigitalParenting
#NeurodivergentKids
#ScreenTimeEffects
#HealthyKidsHealthyFuture
#ParentingTips
#TechAndKids
#EmotionalWellness
#BalancedParenting
#KidsAndScreens
#CognitiveDevelopment
#FamilyLifeMatters

Episode 6: What Parents Need to Know About Clinical vs. Educational Autism Criteria
In this episode, we explore the important distinctions and overlaps between clinical diagnoses of autism and eligibility criteria for services under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). We’ll discuss California's 2014 regulatory updates aimed at better aligning clinical and educational criteria and highlight what parents need to know to navigate both. We'll cover:
Core Diagnostic Criteria

A clinical diagnosis requires clear deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communication, and relationship skills, as well as evidence of repetitive behaviors, rigid routines, or sensory sensitivities. Educational eligibility, on the other hand, focuses on the need for specially designed instruction that supports access and progress in general education.

Specially Designed Instruction

What adaptations in content, delivery, and methodology look like in educational settings, including behavior plans, executive skills, and mental health counseling.

Common Pitfalls in School-Based Assessments

Why it's critical for school psychologists to be familiar with clinical diagnostic criteria and to avoid "diagnostic overshadowing"—attributing all challenges to autism without considering other conditions like ADHD, learning disabilities, or anxiety.

Transition Assessments

For students 16 and older, effective transition assessments address executive functioning, adaptive skills, and planning for independent living, employment, and community agency support.

Through understanding these distinctions, parents can be better prepared to advocate for comprehensive and meaningful supports that address the full impact of autism on their child’s daily life and future.

Join us to learn more about these criteria and why an accurate understanding is essential in supporting your child’s development both in school and beyond.

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.