In this episode, Dr. Tay is joined by guest Amanda Moses, a neurodivergent psychologist from Australia, who specializes in autism identification in those with complex and highly masked presentations. They discuss the differences in how autism presents in females versus males, the concept of masking, and the unique social challenges that often lead to delayed diagnoses. Amanda offers practical advice for parents and clinicians on how to better recognize and support autistic children and adults. The episode emphasizes the importance of specialized training for clinicians and the need for more self-compassion and understanding among those exploring their own neurodivergent traits.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:28 Autism Diagnostic Criteria and Episode Reference

01:10 Amanda's Background and Passion for Autism

01:38 Dr. Tay's Background and Podcast Purpose

02:40 Amanda's Journey and PhD Focus

04:07 Challenges in Autism Assessment Tools

10:22 Importance of Self-Identification and Formal Diagnosis

14:46 Challenges in Diagnosing Girls with Autism

26:51 Key Transitional Points for Diagnosing Autism in Girls

31:44 Recognizing Emotional Dysregulation in Children

32:26 Perfectionism and Cognitive Rigidity

33:10 The Role of Savvy Parents

33:31 The Importance of Content Creation

35:37 Exploring Masking in Autism

38:16 Personal Experiences with Masking

41:11 Helping Children Understand Their Energy Levels

44:25 The Complexities of Masking and Mental Health

46:40 Finding Safe Spaces for Authenticity

53:49 Social Connections Among Neurodivergent Individuals

56:35 Resources for Understanding Masking

01:00:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

RESOURCES

⚡️ continue learning from Amanda Moses on Instagram @amandamosespsychology and via her website

⚡️paid resource on masking mentioned in the episode

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

Dr. Tay shares personal experiences and insights about making significant life changes. She discusses the challenges and importance of trusting one's instincts, especially when overthinking sets in. Dr. Tay recounts a personal story involving a car accident and fire ants, which led her to a profound realization about her own business decisions, particularly the launch of the anticipated membership to support families navigating autism. She emphasizes the value of listening to your body, taking action despite fear, and leveraging gut feelings in both parenting and personal growth. This episode encourages parents, especially those of autistic children, to trust themselves and act on their intuitive nudges.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:32 About Dr. Tay and the Podcast

01:22 Disclaimer and Episode Topic Introduction

01:58 Personal Story: The Fire Ant Incident

03:27 Business Mastermind and Spiritual Meaning of Fire Ants

05:20 Struggles with Launching the Membership

08:40 The Importance of Trusting Your Gut

09:17 Quality Over Quantity in Services

11:29 Navigating Parenting Decisions

15:38 Personal Reflections and Call to Action

22:39 Final Thoughts and Farewell

RESOURCES

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay chats with Jessie Mewshaw, a speech language pathologist, to discuss the often overlooked topic of medium and high support needs in autism. They dive into why this conversation is vital, sharing personal experiences and professional insights. Jessie discusses her unique journey into the field and her current work with nonspeaking and minimally speaking autistic individuals. Key themes include the importance of neurodiversity-affirming care, better training and support for providers and caregivers, and the need for more accessible and financially supported resources. The episode also highlights the significance of listening to diverse autistic voices and fostering a community that supports all levels of need.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:44 Meet Jessie Mewshaw: Speech Language Pathologist

01:21 Welcome to the Podcast: Dr. Tay's Background

06:01 Jesse's Journey into Speech Pathology

07:46 Experiences in Australia: Life-Changing Lessons

12:47 Challenges in the US: Lack of Support Programs

17:18 Evaluation Barriers and Presuming Competence

21:55 The Importance of Motor Systems in Autism

27:44 Navigating the Journey Together

28:24 The Importance of Medical Training

30:11 Understanding Dysregulation

34:08 Voices of Families

38:01 Advocacy and Community

43:46 Challenges in Neurodivergent Care

50:21 Call to Action and Resources

50:48 Remembering Victor Perez

51:59 Final Thoughts and Connections

RESOURCES

⚡️ example accounts of moderate and high support need autistic individuals:

@aether.autistic

@angry_autist

@blackspectrumscholar

@charliesvoice1

@dannywithwords

@getaway_autist_mobile

@justkeepstimming

@kaishawna_music

@quirkthriveswithnoah

@zebulontheplanet

⚡️ connect with Jessie on Instagram @ms_jessies_speech_world and explore her services here

⚡️ resource for non-speaking individuals >> When Models Aren't "Sticking": A One-Day Intensive for Supporting Minimally Speaking GLPs (use code JESSIE for 10% off)

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a