Épisodes

  • Finding Creativity and Confidence Through Neurodivergence

    Finding Creativity and Confidence Through Neurodivergence
    Sep 11 2025
    In this episode of Converge Autism Radio, host Reid Miles sits down with Debbie Crouch, a creative wellness and therapeutic arts tutor, to explore the transformative power of art and neurodivergence. Debbie shares her story of being discouraged from pursuing art as a child, only to reclaim creativity later in life as a tool for healing and connection. She discusses how neurodivergence can be reframed as a gift, the role of imagination in resilience, and the importance of telling our stories to remind others they are not alone. Debbie is also a co-author of Beyond the Ordinary, a collection of stories from neurodiverse and creative women. Learn more about her work at www.creativewellnessjourney.co.uk.

    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    41 min
  • Diary of an AuDHD Kid: Accommodations, Empowerment & The Power of Positivity

    Diary of an AuDHD Kid: Accommodations, Empowerment & The Power of Positivity
    Sep 9 2025
    In this inspiring episode of Converge Autism Radio, we sit down with Jonathan, a 10-year-old navigating life with both autism and ADHD. Together with his family, he shares honest reflections on medication, school testing, sports, and the importance of making his own choices. From learning how to balance focus and independence to discovering the life-changing role of a positive mindset, Jonathan reminds us that empowerment starts early—and that children thrive when they’re trusted with agency. This episode offers parents, educators, and clinicians practical insight into supporting kids with accommodations while also celebrating their strengths.

    A shout out to NeuroFM for sharing this amazing story with us! J

    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    26 min
  • Neurodivergent Intimacy, Sensory Sex, and Sacred Reclamation

    Neurodivergent Intimacy, Sensory Sex, and Sacred Reclamation
    Aug 22 2025
    What does intimacy look like when you’re autistic, ADHD, and healing from trauma? In this powerful episode of Mental Health News Radio, host Kristin Sunanta Walker sits down with Candice Christiansen (she/they)—licensed clinical mental health counselor, autistic ADHD adult, and founder of the Namasté Center for Healing—to explore the complex terrain of neurodivergent intimacy, betrayal trauma, sensory sex, and emotional reclamation. Candice shares her late-diagnosis journey, her healing partnership with a neurodivergent spouse, and the sacred truth of what it takes to cultivate safe, embodied, and attuned connection—emotionally, sexually, and spiritually. Together, they unpack common struggles faced by autistic adults: hypersensitivity, shutdown during sex, fawning, energetic overload, and the grief of misdiagnosis. This is not your typical conversation about relationships—this is soul-deep, nuance-rich, and paradigm-shifting. If you've ever wondered why sex feels overwhelming or how to reclaim it on your own terms...

    If you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “too much”...
    If you're healing from betrayal and trying to rebuild trust inside your body...

    This episode is for you.

    Disclaimer: This episode contains candid discussions about sex, intimacy, and trauma—particularly in the context of neurodivergent experiences and sexual abuse recovery. Listener discretion is advised.

    About the Guest: Candice Christiansen (she/they) is the Founder and Clinical Director of Namasté Center for Healing based in Millcreek, Utah. A licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist-Supervisor (CSAT‑S), and psychedelic-assisted therapist (PAT), Candice specializes in working with autistic, ADHD, and trauma-impacted individuals and couples around betrayal recovery, sensory intimacy, and sacred sexuality. Diagnosed as autistic and ADHD at age 44, Candice brings both lived and clinical expertise to her work. She has over 25 years of experience, is trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, IFIO couples therapy, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. She’s the host of “Fabulously Candice: The Sexiest Podcast About Neurodivergence”, and a co-developer of one of the first neuro-affirmative autism screening tools. Candice is passionate about creating sacred, trauma-informed spaces where neurodivergent people can reclaim body autonomy, intimacy, and relational sovereignty.

    Website: https://www.namasteadvice.com

    For a free copy of her ebook on Autism and Sensory Sex, visit the website and use the contact form to request it.

    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    50 min
  • Breaking Barriers: Women, Autism, and Inclusion with Dr. Stephanie Holmes

    Breaking Barriers: Women, Autism, and Inclusion with Dr. Stephanie Holmes
    Aug 9 2025
    In this candid and insightful conversation, host Kristin Walker sits down with Reverend Dr. Stephanie Holmes to explore her personal and professional journey in autism advocacy. From her daughter’s early diagnosis to her family’s multi-perspective book, Dr. Holmes shares how lived experience shaped her mission to support neurodivergent individuals, couples, and families—especially in faith-based communities. Together, they discuss the historic underdiagnosis of women on the spectrum, the nuances of masking, the need for inclusive education, and the often-overlooked intersections of autism, gender, and culture. This episode is a deep dive into breaking stereotypes, amplifying autistic voices, and creating genuine inclusion in schools, marriages, and communities.

    ​Stephanie C. Holmes graduated from Campbell University summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1994. She then completed her Master’s in Counseling summa cum laude through Liberty University and further pursued licensing in the state of NC which was obtained and held from 2001 through 2009. She was an LPC in good standing. Upon moving to Georgia, with a desire to reach more people through tele- counseling, she obtained other certifications to pursue her calling of working with marriage and families with special needs nationally and internationally. Her highest held degree is an Ed.D from Abilene Christian University, where she graduated with distinction upon completing her dissertation, “Creating an Inclusive Climate for Students on the Autism Spectrum.”​Certifications and Training​
    • Certified Master Life Coach through International Board of Christian Counselors (IBCC)
    • Certified Mental Health Coach through American Association of Christian Counselors.
    • Board Certified Christian Counselor through International Board of Certified Counselors (AACC)
    • Board Certified through Georgia Board of Examiners for Georgia Christian Counselors and Therapists
    • Certified Autism Specialist through IBCCES
    • Neurodiverse Couples Certification through AANE
    • Neurodiversity Trained and Certified through Neurodiversity Training International
    • Ordained through IAOG
    holmesasr.com

    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    47 min
  • Rewriting the Story: Neurodivergent Love, Self-Acceptance, and Noise Sensitivity

    Rewriting the Story: Neurodivergent Love, Self-Acceptance, and Noise Sensitivity
    Aug 5 2025
    In this heart-opening conversation, NeuroDuo’s Lauren and Tom share how their late diagnoses of autism and ADHD transformed not only their individual lives but their relationship, creativity, and self-acceptance. They talk about battling stigma, navigating sensory overload, and learning to create content that mirrors their real experience—not performative or polished, but real, resonant, and healing. From clock ticks in an assessment room to the quiet validation of knowing you're not alone, this episode explores how authenticity becomes therapy—and how being understood can change everything.

    linktr.ee/neuroduo




    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    19 min
  • Introducing All Abilities, No Filter: Honest Conversations from the Front Lines of Autism Care

    Introducing All Abilities, No Filter: Honest Conversations from the Front Lines of Autism Care
    Jul 23 2025
    In this special Converge Autism feature, we’re proud to introduce All Abilities, No Filter—a bold new podcast hosted by a team of educators, clinicians, and advocates who are reshaping how we talk about autism, disability, and behavioral health. Join Jake Edgar, Lily Howard, Hannah Jernigan, and Dr. Brandon Clark as they share raw, unfiltered insights from their work inside classrooms, clinics, and family systems. With equal parts expertise and empathy, these hosts explore everything from IEP challenges and professional burnout to personal stories of neurodivergence and advocacy in action. This isn’t just another autism podcast—it’s a space where honesty leads, stigma unravels, and real voices are heard. Tune in and experience why All Abilities, No Filter is changing the conversation.

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com

    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    57 min
  • Assessing Benefits, Debunking Myths & Elevating ABA Practice

    Assessing Benefits, Debunking Myths & Elevating ABA Practice
    Jul 16 2025
    Join Dr. Stephanie on Converge Autism Radio with special guest Courtney Lasky, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA and PhD candidate, as they unpack the real-world impact of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in autism. Courtney shares insights from her 10+ years leading compassionate, trauma-informed clinical teams at ABS Kids, explores common myths, highlights crucial components of effective ABA care, and reveals how leadership strategies can foster psychological safety in therapy settings. Whether you're a caregiver, clinician, or advocate, this episode offers fresh perspectives and practical guidance to support autistic individuals and their families with dignity and expertise.

    About the speaker: Courtney Lasky, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
    Courtney Lasky is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) amd PhD candidate with over a decade of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). As the Director of Clinical Operations for ABS Kids, she leads clinical teams in providing high-quality, compassionate care to children and families.

    Recognized as a subject matter expert, Courtney has been featured on Crime Stories with Nancy Grace and the Dr. Drew Podcast, where she shares her insights on behavior analysis and its broader applications. She is passionate about leadership, staff training, and fostering psychological safety within clinical teams.
    Beyond her professional work, Courtney is a dedicated wife and mother of six, living in Irmo, South Carolina. Balancing a thriving career with a full and adventurous family life, she brings both expertise and heart to everything she does.




    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    33 min
  • Healing the Inflamed Brain: Stem Cells, Autism, and the Future of Regenerative Medicine

    Healing the Inflamed Brain: Stem Cells, Autism, and the Future of Regenerative Medicine
    Jul 14 2025
    In this powerful episode of Converge Autism Radio, Dr. Stephanie Holmes speaks with Dr. Eric Weiss—surgeon, stem cell pioneer, and father to a son on the spectrum. Driven by personal experience, Dr. Weiss shares the emotional and scientific journey that led him to explore stem cell therapy for autism. From groundbreaking brain inflammation research to real-world results with his son, this conversation unpacks the potential of regenerative medicine to improve quality of life for autistic individuals. Listeners will learn about:
    • The link between brain inflammation and autism symptoms
    • How umbilical cord stem cells are being used safely and effectively
    • Why stem cell therapy may open new doors for older autistic individuals
    • The personal breakthroughs that changed Dr. Weiss’s career path
    • How diet, gut health, and stem cells can support a holistic healing journey
    Whether you're a parent, professional, or curious soul, this episode brings fresh insight and real hope.

    Dr. Eric Weiss is a board‑certified plastic surgeon and former U.S. Navy Commander who pivoted his career to regenerative medicine after his son Marston was diagnosed with autism and showed remarkable gains following umbilical cord stem cell therapy. Now serving as Medical Director of the Autism Program at Miami Stem Cell and founder of North Florida Stem Cells, he has treated over 400 children with data-driven protocols—reporting developmental improvements in about 65–70% of them—using MSCs, exosomes, MRI/EEG monitoring, and rigorous safety standards. He’s also co‑author of Educating Marston and a frequent podcast guest, sharing both personal experience and emerging science in autism care.

    https://northfloridastemcells.com/

    www.springbrookbehavioral.com

    www.convergeautism.com

    www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
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    44 min