Child custody for an autistic child with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile can present unique challenges, especially around routines, masking, and emotional regulation. The Impact of PDA on Routines and Transitions Children with PDA can appear to thrive on...
PDA
Understanding Executive Functioning: A Key to Success for Neurodivergent Individuals
Executive functioning (EF) is the mental skill set that helps us plan, organize, manage time, and achieve goals. It’s essential for success in everyday life, impacting everything from getting ready for the day to completing complex projects at work. When these skills...
Comparing and Contrasting Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) are often confused due to the overlap in behaviors such as refusal, defiance, and avoidance of demands. However, these two profiles stem from different underlying causes and present in unique...
Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Through a Neuroaffirming Lens: Navigating Challenges in Children and Adults
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is increasingly recognized as a distinct profile within the autism spectrum, though it remains a topic of debate and misunderstanding. It refers to a pattern of behavior where individuals exhibit extreme avoidance of everyday...
Embracing Neurodivergence and Healing from Trauma: A Journey to Self-Discovery
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life. As a counselor and life coach specializing in neurodivergence and trauma, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges individuals face in navigating their unique paths to healing...
Embracing Growth: A Year in Review and the Path Ahead for the Neurodiverse Community
Introduction: As we found things returning to normal since the pandemic, or at least some sort of “new normal,” congratulate yourself for surviving the biggest upheaval in our personal history! Being neurodiverse, we can find changes to our routine very uncomfortable...
Traveling and Neurodiversity
December is often a season of traveling. Whether that’s a holiday, a family vacation, or a trip home, there can be a lot to consider when someone in your travel party is neurodivergent. Here are tips to think about. Pre-Planning and Preparation: Perhaps you’re a...
Navigating Life with PDA as an Adult: Struggles and Strategies
Introduction: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in adults can present unique challenges, impacting various aspects of daily life. Understanding the struggles faced by adults with PDA is crucial for fostering empathy and creating a supportive environment. In this...