Amazing Grace: One Family’s Story of Hope and Autism
Crystal Y. Sanford, M.Ed., M. A. CCC-SLP shares her journey as an autism parent, highlights the things her daughter Grace is doing to overcome challenges, and shows why all families with a member on the spectrum should have hope.
Florida Representative Chip LaMarca on supporting neurodiversity
How One Community Is Helping a Girl with Apraxia – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 22 sec) In this episode: robotic pets help those with dementia, A&E will be premiering a reality show about those with hearing impairments, and what does the latest research say about musicians and depression? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Mental Health & Relationships: Can a Narcissist Love?
People who love narcissists are starved for expressions of love. But, narcissists are capable of giving them? Darlene Lancer, JD, MFT answers that question in this article.
The Trauma Informed Approach to Education, with Jim Sporleder | EDB 138
(20 minutes) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with returning guest and trauma informed consultant Jim Sporleder.
A Back to School Survival Guide for Different Brains
Resuming classes after summer vacation is always an exciting and often stressful event for any child. Here are 6 tips for making the transitions easier for any kind of different brain.
MIGRAINES
What are migraines? A migraine isn’t just a bad headache. It’s an extremely disarming collection of neurological symptoms that usually contains a severe throbbing recurring pain on one side of the head. In 1/3 of migraine attacks, both sides are affected. Attacks can last between 4 and 72 hours. There are different types of migraines. […]
SYNESTHESIA
Click here to view all Different Brains content about Synesthesia What is Synesthesia? Synesthesia is a condition in which one sense (for example, hearing) is simultaneously perceived as if by one or more additional senses such as sight. Another form of synesthesia joins objects such as letters, shapes, numbers or people’s names with a sensory […]
STROKES
Click here to view all Different Brains content about strokes What are Strokes? A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or severely reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. A stroke may be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) […]
SCHIZOPHRENIA
Click here to view all Different Brains content about Schizophrenia What is Schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is a serious disorder which affects how a person thinks, feels and acts. Someone with schizophrenia may have difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is imaginary; may be unresponsive or withdrawn; and may have difficulty expressing normal emotions in […]
ALS
Click here to view all Different Brains content about ALS What is ALS? Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a group of rare neurological diseases that mainly involve the nerve cells (neurons) responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. Voluntary muscles produce movements like chewing, walking, and talking. The disease is progressive, meaning the symptoms get worse […]
ADDICTION
Click here to view all Different Brains content about addiction What is Addiction? Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also […]
“Voices From The Spectrum” AHA Panel Part 1, featuring Dr. Stephen Shore, Amy Gravino, and more | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 47
(45 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS present part 1 of the “Voices from the Spectrum” panel presented at the Asperger Syndrome & High Functioning Autism Association (AHA) 2018 Conference.
Furniture Gallery Hosts Prom for Kids with Autism – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 32 sec) In this episode, Alzheimer’s Caregivers share their stories, singer and songwriter Mel B discusses her dyslexia diagnosis, children with autism get a prom night in a furniture gallery, and more!
Raising Tourette’s: New A&E Docuseries Premiering August 15th
A new series focusing on five families raising children with Tourette Syndrome premieres on A&E, August 15, at 10 pm EST.
Epilepsy & Pregnancy, with Kimberley Spire-Oh | EDB 126
(12 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with private attorney for Special Education and Disability Law Kimberley Spire-Oh. She discusses the challenges of pregnancy with a seizure disorder, and gives advice for women with epilepsy that want to become mothers.
Evolving Different Brains: ADHD, Technology & the Productivity Paradox
Harold S. Reitman, M.D. discusses a recent study finding the use of technology may lead to increases in ADHD diagnoses, and what that may mean for all of our brains.
How Concussions Impact Those with ADHD
In a recent study, those with ADHD showed a higher rate of continuous effects on the brain following a concussion, such as long-lasting anxiety and depression.
Swimmers With Down Syndrome Compete in Nova Scotia – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 28 sec) In this episode researchers from USC find a link between social media use and ADHD, swimmers with Down syndrome break records in Nova Scotia, and more!
British Family Adopts Nine Children with Down Syndrome
The Patterson family in the UK, dedicated to helping out kids stuck in the foster care system, has adopted a total of 9 children with Down Syndrome.
Finding Motivation in Parkinson’s Self-Advocates
Marcia Ratner, Ph.D. discusses how her experience at the Parkinson’s Policy Forum has given added motivation to her work.
The Next Generation of Concussion Research, with SIVOTEC Analytics’ Pete Martinez | EDB 137
(18 minutes) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Pete Martinez, the CEO and Chairman of SIVOTEC Analytics about their research into concussions and CTEs.
“Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism” Roundtable | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 46
(32 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS discuss the new book “Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism”, and are joined by the book’s editor, Barb Cook, and two contributors, Renata Jurkevythz and Maura Campbell.
300 Bikers Celebrate Boy with Autism’s 10th Birthday!
(3 min 36 sec) In this episode, patients reverse the symptoms of early Alzheimer’s, a high school uses brain scans to test for concussions, bikers comes together to celebrate a birthday for a child with autism, and more!
Every Brain Has Something to Offer: The Value of Diversity & Creating Meaningful Work
Britt-Mari Sykes Ph.D. discusses how the value of making meaningful work is vitally important for everone, regardless of diagnosis.
NHS Expanding PTSD Treatment Access for UK Veterans
In the 2017-2018 timeline, 21,190 veterans were referred for NHS psychological therapies, which is almost 2,000 higher than the previous year.
Neurodiverse Empowerment Through Music, with Joseph S. Lento | EDB 136
(12 minutes) Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with musician and educator Joseph S. Lento, and discusses how music can empower those of us with different brains.
How Neurodiversity Shaped Me Into Who I Am Today
Allison Dyke discusses how her journeys with family members with Huntington’s disease, as well as her own challenges, but her on the path to working for those of us with different brains.
Michael J. Fox’s Crusade to Cure Parkinson’s – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 16 sec) In this episode Michael J. Fox talks Parkinson’s cures, and a musician with Down syndrome inspires everyone around the world, and more!
Woman’s Stroke Recovery Assisted by Spinning Wheel
Spinning thread on her old-fashioned wheel has been Paula Bowers’ hobby for years, and now it is helping her recover from a stroke.
How Music Can Help Different Brains, with Joseph S. Lento | EDB 135
(19 minutes) Musician and educator Joseph S. Lento speaks with Hackie Reitman M.D. about how music and learning a musical instrument can help the brain.
How Cognitive Distortions Harm Us
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or perfectionism, your thinking can skew your perceptions. Darlene Lancer, JD, MFT explores how these skewed perceptions can result in cognitive distortions.
Getting “Unstuck” From The Past, with Jaime Black, Psy.D. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 45
(29 minutes) Guest Jaime Black, Psy.D. discusses her methods for helping people with autism develop social skills, and shares strategies for improving social relationships.
First Frat Brother with Down Syndrome – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 16 sec) In this episode, a young man bikes cross-country for autism awareness, former NFL star Percy Harvin discusses anxiety, a college student with Down syndrome breaks barriers with the help of his mentor, and more!
Does Less Sun Mean More OCD?
A new compilation of data assembled at Binghamton University NY suggests the prevalence of OCD, or obsessive compulsive disorder, is lower in areas that get more sunlight.
Anxiety and Existentialism, with Gordon Marino, Ph.D. | EDB 134
(19 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Gordon Marino, Ph.D.. about the intersections of philosophy, existentialism, and neurodiversity.
10 Reasons to Play Tennis For Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Love Serving Autism founder Lisa Pugliese discusses her top reasons why individuals on the spectrum will benefit from participating in tennis activities.
Schizophrenia More Likely In Urban Areas
A recent study conducted by JAMA Psychiatry has shown an unusually high rate of schizophrenia-prone genes in people who resided in highly urbanized locations.
Employee with Down Syndrome Celebrates 25 Years at Dunkin Donuts – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 33 sec) In this episode, best-selling author Sarah Wilson discusses anxiety with Carson Daily, a young woman discusses her life with ALS, children with Down syndrome get to play football with the McCaffreys, and much more!
Autism Inclusion in Schools: It Worked For Me
Canadian autism self-advocate Aaron Bouma discusses the importance of inclusion in schools for people on the spectrum, and the impact it had on his life.
6 Tips to have a PTSD and Autism Friendly 4th of July
Whether you or your family members have extreme reactions triggered by 4th of July activities or you just want to be considerate to your neighbors, there are a few steps you can take to avoid causing harm to others through your festivities.
The Role of Exposure to Neurotoxic Chemicals in Neurodiversity
Marcia Ratner, Ph.D. discusses the role neurotoxic chemicals can play in creating neurodiverse conditions, and gives tips on prevention and treatment options.
Exploring Peer to Peer Support for People with Autism, with Catriona Stewart, Ph.D. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 44
(43 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Catriona Stewart, Ph.D., the founder of SWAN: Scottish Women’s Autism Network.
Neurodiverse Graduations Wow The Internet – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 15 sec) In this episode, a dyslexic man works for change in New Zealand, a pair of neurodiverse graduation videos go viral, a family creates a virtual reality program for children with autism, and more!
Can Drumming Help Ease PTSD?
Drum therapy for PTSD is gaining popularity, and research has verified therapeutic effects of ancient rhythm techniques as a valuable treatment for issues such as stress, anxiety, chronic pain, and more.
Giving Positive Exposure to People with Special Needs, with Bieke Kreps, DDS, MSc | EDB 133
(14 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Bieke Kreps, DDS, MSc, director for Positive Exposure Europe/Belgium.
The Keys to Personal Growth for Different Brains
Russell Lehmann charts how he went from an almost non-verbal, low-functioning child with autism to an internationally known author, poet and motivational speaker advocating for neurodiversity.
Blind Man With Autism Starts Internet Radio Station – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 47 sec) In this episode, a blind man with Asperger’s creates an Internet radio station, a dancer with Tourette’s uses her tics in her movement, a coffee employee with Down syndrome gets a huge surprise from his boss, and more!
How the Philadelphia Eagles are Taking Action for Autism
Philadelphia Eagles’ owner Jeffrey Lurie has created the “Eagles Autism Challenge”—the franchise’s signature cycling and 5K run/walk charity event dedicated to raising funds for innovative autism research.
A Student’s Journey Through the Math Learning Disorder Dyscalculia
College student Alexandra Wright discusses her lifelong challenges with math, and how a diagnosis of dyscalculia put her on the path to overcoming her challenges.
Improv and Autism, with Carol Feldman Bass | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 43
(39 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Carol Feldman Bass, founder of Social Dynamix.
Mozart’s Music Found to Ease Epileptic Seizures
A recent study performed by scientists in Edinburgh, Scotland has recently found Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D major to have a beneficial effect on children with epilepsy.
Washington’s First Lobbyist With Down Syndrome – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 24 sec) In this episode, a UK café hires people on the autism spectrum, an 11-yr-old creates a lemonade stand for her brother with Tourette’s, and we meet the first Washington lobbyist with Down syndrome, and more!
Mental Health & Relationships: Confronting Abuse
Darlene Lancer, JD, MFT discusses abuse in relationships with narcissists, and highlights ways to effectively confront it.
Autism in the Criminal Justice System, with Carol S. Weinman, Esq., C.A.S. | EDB 131
(16 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with criminal defense attorney and autism expert Carol S. Weinman, Esq., C.A.S..
Former NHL Goalie Shares His Experiences with OCD, PTSD, and Depression
Clint Malarchuk, a former goalie in the National Hockey League active from 1981-1996, has chosen to tell his tale of a struggle with severe depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How 2 Toddlers with Down Syndrome Became Best Buds – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 18 sec) In this episode, we meet superheroes with special needs, two toddlers with Down syndrome become best buddies, and a man on the autism spectrum creates sculptures out of Babybel cheese wax, and more!
The Challenge In Our Lifetime Is Neurodiversity
J.R. Reed discusses the concept of neurodiversity, and his own diagnosis as being on the spectrum.
7 Ways to Prevent Photosensitive Epileptic Seizures
We present several things to do and avoid if you are susceptible to photosensitive epileptic seizures.
DYSCALCULIA
Click here to view all Different Brains content about dyscalculia What is Dyscalculia? Dyscalculia, also known as a math learning disability, is defined as the inability to achieve in mathematics proportional to an individual’s age, intelligence, and within adequate schooling. Dyscalculia is marked by an individual’s trouble to execute and comprehend arithmetical calculations; Problems can […]
Brain Injury Support Groups – A Lifeline to Recovery
Traumatic brain injury survivor David Grant discusses the positive impact TBI support groups have had on his life.
Study Finds 70% of Bipolar Patients Initially Misdiagnosed
According to research, bipolar disorder is misdiagnosed in 70% of patients, with 33% remaining misdiagnosed for at least ten years.
The Hidden Curriculum, with Brenda Smith Myles Ph.D. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 42
(38 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Brenda Smith Myles Ph.D.. Dr. Myles is president of AAPC Publishing – a small niche company that publishes books on autism spectrum disorder.
Kobe Bryant Surprises a Fan with Epilepsy – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 45 sec) In this episode, a former high school athlete looks to improve concussion testing, special education students go on a virtual reality field trip, Kobe Bryant surprises a fan with Epilepsy on The View, and more!
The Intersection of Autism and Improv: One Grandmother’s Story
Sandy Bruce discusses the role improv can play in helping people with autism, and the good it did for her own grandson.
Harnessing the Potential of the Neurodivergent, with Pierre Marsh | EDB 129
(21 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with author and neurodiversity advocate Pierre Marsh.
9 Myths About Autism
From news to TV to movies, ideas about and portrayals of people on the autism spectrum are often not based in reality, ranging from simple inaccuracies to outright fabrications. So, let’s review and dispel some common myths.
3 R’s of Holistic Advocacy: Relationship, Respect, and Resilience
Naome Soleil, Ph.D. discusses her own history as an educator, and shares what she learned through her experiences about the “3 Rs of holisitic advocacy”.
How Dogs in Chile Are Helping Kids with Autism at the Dentist – Week in Neurodiversity
In this episode, a middle schooler with Down syndrome scores for his soccer team, a Long Island teen with Tourette’s looks to raise awareness, therapy dogs in Chile make a visit to the dentist easier for children on the autism spectrum, and more!
NFL’s Safest Helmet May be Making the Jump to the U.S. Army
In response to this abundance of blunt force trauma injuries in American soldiers, the U.S. Army and VICIS Inc. have partnered together in order to create a helmet which can also prevent concussions.
A Firsthand Look at the Benefits of Flotation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Technique)
Flotation-REST. What on Earth is it, and how can it benefit me? If you find yourself pondering this out loud, rest assured, you are not alone!
Transition Programs for Women with Autism, with Elizabeth Roberts, PsyD of CIP | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 41
(43 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Elizabeth Roberts, PsyD, of the College Internship Program, to discuss the value of transition programs for people with autism.
Deadpool’s Ryan Reynolds Opens Up About Anxiety – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 20 sec) In this episode, Ryan Reynolds opens up about anxiety, a student with Down syndrome is the first to graduate college in Oregon, and more!
Can Improv Classes Ease Anxiety?
Casey Grambo is a woman living in Connecticut who suffers from severe social anxiety and confidence issues. She finds relief, however, as a member of the Sea Tea improv group.
Mental Health & Relationships: Navigating Codependency
Darlene Lancer, JD, MFT discusses the challenges of codependency, and offers tips for navigating the relationship and mental health challenges it can inspire.
How a Teen with Autism Got Cast on “The Good Doctor” – Week in Neurodiversity
(3min 25sec) In this episode, a prom proposal for a teen with Down syndrome goes viral, a new treatment is used for those with Tourette’s, and an actor with autism shares his journey to a role on The Good Doctor. These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Study Finds That Memories of Music Cannot Be Lost to Alzheimer’s
A recent study has revealed that the areas of the brain which associate music with good feelings is unaffected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Autism & Socialization: The Ins and Outs of Successful Conversations
High school student Ruby Sasson, who is on the autism spectrum, shares tips and tricks that have helped her develop better conversational skills.
Interoception and Autism, with Kelly Mahler MS, OTR/L | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 40
(27 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Kelly Mahler MS, OTR/L about how people with autism may have challenges with interoception.
Meet The Swimming Phenom with Tourette’s and ADHD – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 mins 33 sec) In this episode, a Missouri family sells bow ties for those with Down syndrome, a new book is bringing awareness to children with Dyslexia, and we take a look at the high school swimming phenom who overcame the challenges of Tourette’s and ADHD! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
