4: OCD pt. 2: OCD, ADHD & the Dishwasher Olympics: When Efficiency Becomes a Sport

SUMMARY

In this candid and often humorous episode, Patricia (she/her) and Alex (they/them) share their deeply personal neurodivergent experiences with OCD, weaving in childhood rituals, intrusive harm thoughts, contamination fears, and the tangled coexistence of Autism, ADHD, and trauma. They explore how OCD shows up in everyday life — from dishwashers to hyper-specific food hygiene rules — while unpacking the overlap between Autistic routines and OCD compulsions, the stigma around taboo intrusive thoughts like pedophilia OCD, and the toll of decision fatigue. Along the way, they discuss diagnosis challenges, the role of cultural conditioning in reinforcing OCD patterns, and evidence-based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT (ICBT), offering validation, understanding, and a dash of humor for anyone navigating the messy, nuanced reality of an OCD brain.

SOME KEY THINGS DISCUSSED

• OCD prevalence stats in adults and children in the U.S. (a.k.a. Turtle Island)

• Childhood rituals with stuffed animals and early harm-related intrusive thoughts

• Overlap and confusion between Autistic routines, ADHD efficiency needs, and OCD compulsions

• Harm OCD imagery while driving and in daily life

• Contamination fears and hygiene rules (including mayo placement politics)

• Decision fatigue and how structure/routines can reduce it for Autistic & ADHD brains

• Somatic obsessions after allergic reactions and medication side effects

• Taboo intrusive thoughts, including pedophilia OCD, and the distress they cause

• Misdiagnosis challenges, including being told OCD symptoms were PTSD or OCPD

• The role of attachment injuries in triggering OCD spirals

• Food preoccupation as an OCD manifestation, especially with an eating disorder history

• Normalizing catastrophic thinking in neurodivergent lived experience

• Cultural and gendered reinforcement of reassurance-seeking behaviors

• Evidence-based OCD treatments: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and ICBT

• Importance of OCD specialists and screening tools like the OCI-R

SOUNDBITES

"OCD is showing us how much you value this thing."

"It's important to work with an OCD specialist."

“We don’t have to show up shiny, perky, happy all the time.”

“OCD attacks what we value — it goes straight for the things that matter most to us.”

“I’ve just gotten accustomed to having terrible graphic thoughts about what could happen and going, isn’t that interesting?” “My mayo has its designated spot far in the back of the fridge — and yes, I need my own.”

CHAPTERS (Please adjust for the addition of the intro)

00:00 Navigating Low Energy and Self-Compassion

01:56 Understanding OCD: Facts and Statistics

03:33 Personal Journeys with OCD: Alex's Story

11:27 Diagnosis and Misunderstandings of OCD

14:24 Patricia's Experience with OCD and Autism

19:23 Coping Mechanisms and the Impact of OCD

20:50 Understanding Intrusive Thoughts and OCD

27:43 Cultural Influences on OCD and Mental Health

31:22 Therapeutic Approaches to Managing OCD

37:32 Exploring Different Therapies for OCD

40:33 Final Thoughts and Resources for OCD Support

ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:

Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today.

Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice.

Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! 

Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here 

Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more here!

References

• Research shows that the average person goes 14 to 17 years before receiving an OCD diagnosis. And that delay in diagnosis is the biggest barrier to finding the relief you deserve. Studies show that only about 200,000 people with OCD actually seek effective therapy (McGrath, 2024).

• OCD affects about 1-3% of the global population,(Brock, Rizvi & Hany, 2024) per one study.

• Another source estimates about 1 in 100 adults, or between 2-3 million adults in the U.S.A; and 1 in 200 kids and teens, or around 500,000 in the U.S.A.. (as reported by the IOCDF, 2024) 

• OCD can be incredibly debilitating, in fact, according to digging that the OCD-UK did, “OCD was once ranked by the World Health Organization in the top 10 of the most disabling illnesses by lost income and decreased quality of life” (OCD-UK, 2018)

Additional LINKS

• Email us with questions related to the podcast

• Obsessional Compulsive Inventory - Revised (OCI-R)

• 4 question OCD screener

• Evidence based approaches include:

• Exposure and response prevention (ERP)

• Inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy (I-CBT)

• Acceptance and commitment therapy for OCD (ACT)

• Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions SPACE

• Ensure your therapist is ACTUALLY trained in the therapy modality 

• IOCDF

• Resources (podcasts, I-CBT vs. ERP charts, creators w/ lived experience, etc.)

• @autisticworldofalexmac

• Top 10 tips for managing OCD: A Guidebook from an OCD therapist who truly gets it!

• Finding a therapist

• OCD Twin Cities

• IOCDF search

• Find a therapist of color (see inclusive therapists below)

• How to find the right therapist

• Neurodivergent (ND) therapists (not all trained in OCD)

• Inclusive Therapists

• Pscyhology Today

• NOCD

• Self-guided OCD interventions

• Jenna Overbaugh (ERP)

• Self-guided I-CBT (ND-affirming)

• Self-guided I-CBT

• I-CBT Self-help course

• Support groups and treatment groups

• NOCD support groups (accessed via the app – and I believe for free)

• Books

• Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive thoughts

• Everyday Mindfulness for OCD

• Resolving OCD (I-CBT book)

OCD: When Your Brain Plays the “What if” Game

SUMMARY

In this conversation, Patricia (she/her) and Alex (they/them) delve into the complexities of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), discussing its definitions, misconceptions, and talking about their lived experiences with OCD. They explore the different themes and subtypes of OCD, the impact of reassurance seeking in relationships. The discussion also touches on the intersection of OCD with autism and ADHD, emphasizing the importance of understanding these conditions in a nuanced way. The conversation concludes with reflections on finding balance in life and the challenges of perfectionism.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• OCD is characterized by obsessions and compulsions that cause distress.

• Obsessions can take the form of thoughts, memories, or sensations, etc..

• Compulsions are actions taken to reduce distress or prevent feared outcomes.

• There are various themes within OCD, including harm OCD and relationship OCD.

• Reassurance seeking (a compulsion) can be a significant challenge in relationships for those with OCD.

• Medication can be effective in managing OCD symptoms, often in combination with therapy.

• Perfectionism can be a form of OCD. Perfectionism may lead to avoidance of tasks.

• The intersection of OCD with Autism and ADHD can make diagnosis and treatment more complex.

• Understanding the nuances of OCD can help in finding effective coping strategies.

• Finding joy in structure and organization can be beneficial, but it’s important to recognize when it becomes excessive.

SOUND BITES

"What is OCD?"

"It's a mental health condition."

"Does it bring you joy?"

CHAPTERS (please allow for addition of introduction)

• 00:00 Understanding OCD: Definitions and Misconceptions

• 04:20 Themes and Subtypes of OCD

• 12:29 The Nuances of Reassurance Seeking

• 17:59 Medication and Treatment Options for OCD

• 20:13 Exploring OCD Subtypes Further

• 28:25 Understanding MCAS and Its Implications

• 29:19 The Intersection of OCD, Autism, and ADHD

• 32:03 Co-occurring Conditions: Autism and OCD

• 33:48 Perfectionism and Its Challenges

• 36:34 The Journey to Diagnosis

• 38:14 Finding Joy in Systematization

• 40:31 Compensatory Strategies for Neurodivergent Minds

• 42:39 The Looping Behavior Analogy

ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:

Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today.

Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice.

Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! 

Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here 

Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more here!

Additional LINKS

• Email us about the podcast!
• Top 10 tips for managing OCD: A Guidebook from an OCD therapist who truly gets it!

How we met; our fears about starting a podcast, and navigating time agnosia

SUMMARY

In this conversation, Patricia (she/her) and Alex (they/them) explore their differing relationships with time, the impact of time sensitivities on their friendship, and the insecurities that arise in their podcasting journey. They discuss the importance of communication in relationships, especially regarding time management, and how their neurodivergent experiences shape their perspectives. The conversation also touches on feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome, highlighting the challenges of self-acceptance in a world that often prioritizes punctuality and credentials. They share their friendship journey and express their fears and concerns about starting a podcast together. The discussion emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in sharing their experiences, as well as the value of normalizing the differences in how neurodivergent individuals navigate the world.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Patricia and Alex have different relationships with time.

• Communication about feelings is crucial in relationships.

• Their experiences with time agnosia (FKA “time blindness”).

• Societal norms around time can create pressure.

• Imposter syndrome is real.

• Sharing insecurities can alleviate feelings of shame.

• Understanding each other's perspectives fosters empathy.

• Managing time sensitivities requires self-awareness.

• It's okay to not meet societal expectations of neuronormative time frames.

• Recognizing personal strengths can help with feelings of inadequacy.

• Executive functioning differences are common among neurodivergent individuals.

• Time management can be perceived as a difference rather than a deficit.

• Building community is essential for neurodivergent people.

• Authenticity and vulnerability foster connection in relationships.

• Self-disclosure in therapy can be a double-edged sword.

• Concerns about how one presents themselves in public spaces are valid.

• Navigating OCD in relationships requires open communication.

• The right audience will resonate with authentic expressions.

• Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, but everyone has unique strengths.

• Normalizing neurodivergent experiences helps reduce stigma.

SOUND BITES

"I have a very different relationship to time than you do."

"I was having some feelings about it, but wasn't gonna say anything."

"I struggle with comparison."

"It's really common for anyone to have that imposter syndrome."

"It's a difference, not a deficit."

"I was needing some community."

"The right people will find me."

TOPICS EXPLORED IN ORDER:

Introduction and Check-in

Exploring Our Relationship with Time

Navigating Time Sensitivities in Relationships

Understanding Time Agnosia and Its Impact

Insecurities and Imposter Syndrome

Navigating Neurodivergence and Time 

Building Community Among Neurodivergent Therapists

Fears and Concerns About Podcasting

Authenticity and Vulnerability in Sharing Experiences

ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:

Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today.

Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice.

Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! 

Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here 

Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more here!

Additional LINKS

Embrace Autism 

Email

Our Autism and ADHD Diagnoses Journeys

 In this heartfelt episode, join Alex (they/them) and Patricia (she/her) as they open up about their personal journeys to understanding their Autism and ADHD diagnoses. From initial suspicions and self-assessments to the emotional rollercoaster of validation, anger, grief, sadness and more, they share candid insights into the challenges and revelations that come with late diagnosis. Explore the nuances of high masking Autism, the impact of societal stereotypes, and the importance of finding affirming support. Whether you're on a similar path or seeking to understand more about neurodiversity, this episode offers a compassionate and enlightening perspective. Tune in for an honest conversation that celebrates authenticity and resilience.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• The personal journeys of Alex and Patricia in discovering their Autism and ADHD diagnoses.

• How societal stereotypes can delay diagnosis for many individuals.

• The concept of high masking Autism and its impact on late diagnosis.

• Emotional responses to receiving a diagnosis, including grief, relief, and acceptance.

• The role of self-assessment tools like RADS-R and CAT-Q in identifying Autism.

• The importance of finding affirming and skilled clinics for diagnosis.

• How personal experiences and anecdotes can reveal signs of neurodivergence.

• The intersection of Autism, ADHD, and OCD in personal experiences.

• The impact of trauma, anxiety and intersectional identities on masking neurodivergent traits.

• The significance of self-acceptance and unmasking in improving quality of life.

• The challenges of navigating social norms and expectations as a neurodivergent individual.

• The role of family and friends in understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals.

• The concept of internalized presentations of Autism and ADHD.

• How cultural norms, and safety due to being in politicized bodies, can influence the presentation and recognition of neurodivergence.

• The impact of executive function challenges on daily life and career paths.

• The importance of recognizing and accommodating personal needs and differences.

• The role of special interests and hyperfocus in the lives of neurodivergent individuals.

• The challenges of managing OCD and its various presentations (more on that next episode)!

• The significance of personal growth and learning in understanding one's neurodivergent identity.

• The value of sharing personal stories to foster understanding and acceptance.

SOUND BITES

"I finally felt like I had answers."

"I think you might have ADHD."

"I love numbers and data."

"I do not like losing things."

"Where the fuck is it?"

"I never knew what I wanted to do."

"I struggled with paperwork."

"ADHDers thrive on that adrenaline."

"I can let that go."

CHAPTERS (Please adjust for addition of the introduction)

00:00 Introduction to Our Stories

02:47 Alex's Diagnosis Journey

06:00 Understanding Autism and Mental Health

09:01 Exploring ADHD Diagnosis

11:46 Reflections on Diagnosis and Family Responses

16:02 Patricia's Journey to Understanding HSP and Autism

20:08 Cultural Perspectives on Autism Diagnosis

24:09 Navigating Life with Autism and ADHD

28:00 Navigating ADHD and Anxiety

31:06 Career Journeys and Executive Functioning

33:57 The Challenges of Licensing and Paperwork

36:59 Childhood Clues and ADHD Traits

41:00 Understanding OCD and Its Variations

About your hosts:

Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today.

Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice.

Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! 

Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here 

Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more here!

Additional Links

Embrace Autism 

Email

Introduction and What to Expect

In this episode of Unapologetically, AuDHD, hosts Patricia Young (she/her) and Alex McLaughlin (they/them) introduce this new podcast, sharing their backgrounds, experiences, and the mission behind the show. They discuss the importance of normalizing neurodivergent experiences, the topics they plan to cover, and some feelings about self-disclosure in therapy. The conversation aims to create a supportive community for those who identify as neurodivergent, particularly those who are autistic, ADHD, OCD, and PDA.

TAKEAWAYS

• Patricia Young was a licensed clinical social worker. She currently provides online coaching globally for neurodivergent folks. Patricia is AuDHD, OCD, and PDA

• Alex McLaughlin (they/them) is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary therapist with lived experience of OCD.

• The podcast aims to provide education around non-stereotypical presentations of Autism and ADHD, OCD, and other related topics.

• Hosts want to help listeners feel less alone in their experiences.

• The mission is to normalize neurodivergent experiences and celebrate unique ways of thinking.

• Alex wants current therapy participants to know that self-disclosure in therapy can affect the therapeutic relationship, and to consider the pros and cons to listening to the podcast.

• The podcast will cover various topics related to neurodivergence.

• Listeners are encouraged to engage with the hosts about their experiences.

• The hosts emphasize the importance of community and shared experiences.

• The podcast is a platform for honest conversations about neurodivergent lives.

SOUND BITES

"We're here to tell you about our new podcast."

"I work with autistic and ADHDers."

"We want to talk about what does that [AuDHD, OCD, PDA, etc. for us] look like?"

Patricia says: "If you're one of my clients, enjoy it."

CHAPTERS (PLEASE ALLOW FOR ADDITION OF INTRODUCTION)

00:00 Introduction to Unapologetically, AuDHD

05:03 Hosts' Backgrounds and Experiences

09:58 Mission and Purpose of the Podcast

14:59 Topics of Discussion and Future Episodes

20:03 Self-Disclosure and Therapeutic Boundaries

About your hosts:

Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today.

Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice.

Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens: 

Head to Alex’s website here to connect further! 

------ 

Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more. 

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Connect with us via email @ u[email protected]