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Episode 61: When Your Teen Has Autism: A Conversation That Matters with Dr. Kristen Williamson
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Dr. Kristen Williamson shares her journey as a late-diagnosed autistic professional and offers insights for parents raising neurodivergent children. Her personal experiences reveal how understanding neurodiversity can transform shame into self-acceptance and help families navigate the challenges of raising teens on the spectrum.
• Diagnosed with autism and ADHD at age 39 despite having a doctorate in behavioral health
• Growing up as "the weird kid" who struggled with executive functioning and social norms
• Understanding "spicy brains" and how neurodivergent individuals process the world differently
• Why autistic teens may resist driving and strategies for gradual exposure therapy
• Recognizing that autistic brains develop 7-10 years later than neurotypical ones
• How to encourage independence without creating shame
• Finding accommodations and supports like Vocational Rehabilitation services
• The importance of celebrating small victories in skill development
• Addressing suicide prevention and mental health support for neurodivergent individuals
• Resources including warm lines, workbooks, and online communities
Visit Dr. Kristen Williamson at empowermysolutions.com or find her on Instagram and TikTok @dr.kristen for more resources on living as a neurodivergent person in a neurotypical world.
Developed by a team of Practitioners, men's health scientists, neuroscientists and peak performers. MNLY harnesses the power of blood analysis, machine learning, and AI to evaluate data from four essential components: Biological, Environmental, Nutritional, and Clinical analysis. By leveraging this advanced technology, we develop precise, evidence-based solutions that are tailored uniquely to each individual.
https://www.getmnly.com/
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Their supplements have been developed by a team of Practitioners, men's health scientists, neuroscientists and peak performers. MNLY harnesses the power of blood analysis, machine learning, and AI to evaluate data from four essential components: Biological, Environmental, Nutritional, and Clinical analysis. By leveraging this advanced technology, they develop precise, evidence-based solutions that are tailored uniquely to each individual.
https://www.getmnly.com/
Chapters
1. Episode 61: When Your Teen Has Autism: A Conversation That Matters with Dr. Kristen Williamson (00:00:00)
2. Meeting Dr. Kristen Williamson (00:00:44)
3. Growing Up "Weird" and Undiagnosed (00:07:20)
4. Late Diagnosis and Self-Acceptance (00:18:45)
5. Parenting a Teen with Autism (00:24:12)
6. Driving Fears and Sensory Overload (00:33:32)
7. Finding Independence and Resources (00:40:42)
8. Suicide Prevention and Mental Health (00:48:42)
74 episodes
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