ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay is joined by Dr. Melissa Houser, founder and executive director of All Brains Belong, to discuss co-occurring medical conditions in autistic individuals. The conversation covers Dr. Houser's personal and professional journey, the interconnected nature of conditions like hypermobility, POTS, mast cell activation syndrome, and the importance of holistic and inclusive healthcare. Together, they emphasize the value of community ...
Jul 23, 2025•45 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay introduces the vision to provide deeper insights and support for families navigating the autism journey. Highlighting the benefits of her new membership offering, she explains how it differs from her free podcast and clinical services. Through personal reflections and practical examples, listeners learn about the types of content and community support available. Dr. Tay shares a sneak peek from one training about creating a schedule based on...
Jul 17, 2025•25 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay discusses the importance of parents of autistic children seeking support for themselves. She highlights the role of therapy and medication, addressing the stigma and misconceptions surrounding them. Dr. Tay also shares her journey in creating resources for parents. She encourages self-care, therapy, and medication as essential tools for enhancing parental wellbeing and, consequently, better supporting their children. Note: as with all episod...
Jul 09, 2025•35 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay dives into the concept of grief that parents may experience upon learning about their child's autism diagnosis. Dr. Tay discusses the various stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—and how these emotions impact the parenting journey. She emphasizes that grieving in this context is not about mourning the child but rather a shift in expectations and the challenges of raising an autistic child in ...
Jul 02, 2025•53 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay is joined by Dr. Marie Hooper, a clinical psychologist (supervised practice) from Toronto, Canada. They dive into the nuances of autism diagnosis, discussing why autism is often misdiagnosed and the importance of differential diagnosis. Dr. Marie shares her personal journey of being diagnosed as autistic at 43 and talks about her clinic, Flourish Health Services, and her upcoming initiative, Autism Reframe. The conversation also touches on t...
Jun 25, 2025•44 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this candid and vulnerable episode, Dr. Tay dives deep into the theme of identity, sharing personal insights and challenges from her own journey. She discusses the importance of showing up as one's true, authentic self, especially for parents navigating life with autism. Dr. Tay touches on the struggles of balancing various roles in life and the discomfort that comes with self-disclosure and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from the 'Call Her Al...
Jun 18, 2025•30 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay welcomes psychiatrist Dr. Stacy Greeter to discuss the complexities of explaining medication to autistic children. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a neurodiversity-affirming approach, focusing on informed consent, and fostering a healthy relationship with medication. Dr. Greeter shares personal experiences and tips on building trust, understanding unique responses to medications, and the critical role of autonomy in treatment. T...
Jun 11, 2025•44 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay dives into the concept of inner authority from human design and its significance in enhancing parental advocacy and personal growth. Joined by Rosy Crescitelli, a human design specialist and multisensory reading expert, they explore various types of inner authorities such as sacral, emotional, splenic, ego, self, sounding board, and lunar. They discuss how understanding and leveraging one's unique inner authority can facilit...
Jun 04, 2025•1 hr 4 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of asking questions as a tool for progress, especially for parents navigating the challenges of raising an autistic child. She discusses her own journey to launch a membership for parents seeking support, inspired by a serendipitous experience with a community she belongs to. Dr. Tay shares the story of how asking the right questions can lead to actionable outcomes and encourages parents to embrace their right to as...
May 29, 2025•17 min
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. T...
May 21, 2025•1 hr 3 min
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 emphasize...
May 14, 2025•30 min
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...
May 07, 2025•54 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay addresses the current uncertainties of the autism space and how it applies to clinical practice, her personal business, and your parenting journey. She provides an honest reflection on the challenges of navigating unknowns, both personally and within the context of autism care. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of serving oneself, building resiliency, and creating community support. She offers practical tips and shares her e...
Apr 30, 2025•49 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Think of this episode like sitting down with Dr. Tay to chat about a variety of topics, while she is getting ready for morning sessions. She shares her struggles with neck pain and ties it to stress and shame while discussing the application to your parenting journey. Dr. Tay then dives into the recent political climate, particularly RFK Jr.'s controversial remarks about autism and the proposed national registry. She discusses the ongoing robust res...
Apr 23, 2025•30 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay is joined by Camille Joy, an advocate and host of the Moments of Joy podcast. They discuss Camille's journey as a mother of five boys, including her youngest son Maison, who has a congenital heart defect, autism, and intellectual disability. They dive into the importance of early diagnosis, navigating the education system, and advocating for children's needs. Camille shares her experiences with challenging the status quo, particularly around...
Apr 16, 2025•41 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares what families with autistic children are ACTUALLY doing in terms of therapy and support services. Emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity, Dr. Tay discusses common therapies like ABA, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and mental health support. The episode also highlights the significance of individualized plans tailored to each family's needs and reminds parents that it's okay to prioritize their...
Apr 14, 2025•13 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay explores the concept of declarative language and its benefits, especially for demand-avoidant children, with Linda Murphy—a speech therapist, RDI consultant, writer, and expert on the topic. They discuss the definition of declarative language and how it differs from demand-based phrases, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful communication that invites a collaboration. Linda shares insights from her book Declarative Language Handbook and p...
Apr 09, 2025•50 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini-episode, Dr. Tay discusses the importance of noticing and reinforcing small wins in the autism parenting journey. Emphasizing the balance between avoiding toxic positivity and acknowledging positive moments, Dr. Tay explains how behaviorism done in a neurodiversity affirming way can play a role in promoting desired behaviors in autistic children. She shares practical tips on how parents can start recognizing subtle behavioral shifts and...
Apr 07, 2025•16 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay welcomes Lo Farmer to discuss the role of parental advocacy. Lo shares her journey from discovering her son's developmental delays to advocating for equitable access to services. Highlighted topics include the emotional and logistical challenges of getting a diagnosis, the broken support systems for special needs families, and Lo's significant efforts to change policies at the Fort Worth Zoo regarding 1:1 aides. Dr. Tay and Lo emphasize the ...
Apr 02, 2025•41 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay discusses five compelling reasons why parents should consider getting their child assessed for autism, despite the current political climate. This mini episode offers insights into the benefits of obtaining a tailored plan, gaining greater understanding and acceptance of your child, boosting parental confidence, and being proactive in mental health outcomes. Dr. Tay also addresses common concerns about sharing diagnoses and offers guidance o...
Mar 31, 2025•15 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay welcomes Andi Putt, better known on social media as @mrsspeechiep. Andi, a late identified autistic speech therapist, discusses her work doing autism evaluations and the resources she provides for the autism community. They explore topics including the nuances of autism diagnosis, the importance of neurodiversity-affirming care, and the development of Andi's popular Autism Handbooks. The conversation also dives into challenges within the cli...
Mar 26, 2025•48 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses the challenges and debates surrounding Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. She shares insights from conversations about the division within the autism community over terminologies, symbols, and approaches, emphasizing the importance of unity and empathy. Dr. Tay highlights the pressing issues like the spread of misinformation, the role of evidence-based practices, and the political landscape affecting autis...
Mar 24, 2025•13 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this insightful episode, Dr. Tay welcomes Lisa Jean-Francois, known as @consciouslylisa_ on social media. Lisa shares her in-depth and personal journey of parenting two autistic children. The conversation covers her initial struggles and breakthroughs in understanding autism, the unexpected discovery of her husband's late diagnosis, and her introspective look at her possible neurodivergence. Lisa also discusses her adaptation of gentle and consci...
Mar 19, 2025•51 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini episode, Dr. Tay explores the intersection between evidence-based practices and neurodiversity affirming care in autism treatment. Drawing from her extensive background in research and clinical practice, she discusses the challenges of integrating these approaches to provide tailored, effective support for autistic individuals. Emphasizing the importance of lived experiences and clinical impressions alongside research, Dr. Tay highlight...
Mar 17, 2025•14 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses apraxia with Jordan Levan, a disability advocate and founder of The Apraxia Foundation. They explore the differences between apraxia and dyspraxia, signs and symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis. Jordan shares his personal journey with childhood apraxia of speech, the types of therapeutic approaches available, and how to integrate neurodiversity affirming approaches into therapeutic supports. They also t...
Mar 12, 2025•1 hr 3 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay connects with Neurofriendly Beau, a neurodivergent ADHD coach and parent of a neurodivergent child. They discuss the challenges and dynamics of parenting when the parent and child have different neurotypes. Beau shares insights on her late ADHD diagnosis and limitations of the diagnosis process as well as details her journey through parenthood, and the importance of adaptable and understanding approaches that go beyond tradi...
Mar 05, 2025•33 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist specializing in neurodiversity affirming care, interviews Laura Petix @theotbutterfly about her children's book on neurodiversity. They discuss how to help children understand their autistic brain and neurodivergent traits, Laura's inspiration for writing the book, and her background as a pediatric occupational therapist. The conversation covers Laura's journey as a neurodivergent parent, the importance of educ...
Feb 26, 2025•37 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this special episode, Dr. Tay welcomes back special education attorney Ashley Barlow to discuss critical updates impacting special education in the U.S. They delve into the Texas vs. Becerra case regarding the potential elimination of Section 504 protections, explore potential changes within the Department of Education, and highlight the significance of grassroots advocacy. Dr. Tay and Ashley provide valuable insights on how parents can proactive...
Feb 21, 2025•1 hr 10 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay welcomes Mercedes Palermo to discuss her experiences as a parent of an autistic daughter diagnosed with ARFID. Mercedes shares her journey, from the initial diagnosis to managing daily challenges, while highlighting her advocacy efforts in spreading awareness. The episode covers key issues like understanding avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), balancing the needs of siblings, and creating supportive environments. Mercedes also...
Feb 19, 2025•39 min
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay is joined by Dr. Michelle Fardella, a clinical and school psychologist from Canada, to discuss the critical topic of sex education for autistic youth. The conversation covers various aspects, including the importance of proactive sex education, teaching body autonomy, consent, and addressing misconceptions. They delve into barriers faced by autistic youth in accessing comprehensive sex education and emphasize safety and appropriate teaching ...
Feb 12, 2025•42 min
