Archives

How MMA Helped Amir Khan Overcome Tourette Syndrome

MMA Fighter Amir Khan went from a child bullied for his Tourette syndrome, to a strong and confident young man after discovering Muay Thai at the age of thirteen.

Baseball MVP Kirk Gibson on Life with Parkinson’s Disease – Week in Neurodiversity (6/3/17)

(3 mins 52 sec) In this episode, a comedian uses his Asperger’s diagnosis to his advantage, fashion students hold a fashion show for children with Down syndrome, and former baseball player Kirk Gibson discusses living with Parkinson’s! These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Trauma, PTSD, and Codependency: How Life Experiences Affect Our Relationships

Darlene Lancer explores trauma’s influence on relationships, and the connection between codependency and PTSD.

Uniting Physician Perspectives for Neurodiversity | EDB 83

(25 min 43 sec) In this special episode of Exploring Different Brains, Hackie Reitman, M.D. presents five previous guests discussing breaking down barriers in providing quality health care for those of us with different brains. Guests include Dr. Steve Perlman, Dr. Bankole Johnson, Dr. Allen Wong, Dr. H. Thomas Temple, and Dr. Steve Sulkes.

Mother With Epilepsy the Focus of New BBC Radio Play

BBC Radio 4 is set to host the new drama titled “Slipping Through Time,” featuring Game of Throne’s star Ellie Kendrick as a young mom with epilepsy.

The Difference Between Autism Service Dogs & Emotional Support Pets, with Pamela Kent | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 9

(43 mins) Becca, Dr. Gerber, and their guest, therapy dog trainer Pamela Kent, discuss the differences between emotional support dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs, the role animals can play for a person on the autism spectrum.

Navigating Society With a Hearing Impairment

Alina Pacheco discusses growing up with a hearing impairment, and navigating the social difficulties that can come with a disability that hampers communication.

Father Creates Minecraft Safe Place for Kids With Autism – Week in Neurodiversity (5/27/17)

(3 mins 31 sec) In this episode, weightlifter with Down syndrome goes perfect in his competition, Shazam raises awareness for Alzheimer’s, and how has one father created a Minecraft safe place for kids with with autism? These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Nestlé Raising 70,000 Euros for Down Syndrome Ireland

Nestlé’s staff in Ireland is looking to raise 70,000 euros for Down Syndrome Ireland in a new two year staff Charity of the Year partnership, involving over 700 employees.

What I Learned at the United Nations on World Autism Awareness Day

Advocate Anita Lesko describes the experience of addressing the United Nations on World Autism Day, and the work being done to help those on the spectrum around the world.

What Everyone Should Know About Epilepsy, with Tom McGranahan, Jr. | EDB 82

(17 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses common misconceptions and important tools with epilepsy advocate and author Tom McGranahan, Jr.

Gender, Sexuality, and Autism, with Leslie A. Sickels, LCSW | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 8

(32 mins) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Leslie A. Sickels, LCSW. They discuss the importance of educating people on the spectrum about sex, the common misnomers society has about autism and relationships, and gender identity issue within the ASD community.

Richard Branson Highlights the Potential of Young People with Dyslexia

Virgin mogul Richard Branson has penned an article defending young people with dyslexia, in which he argues that the diagnosis should be perceived as a sign of potential rather than a disadvantage.

Man with Down Syndrome Retires After Working 33 Years at McDonald’s – Week in Neurodiversity (5/20/17)

(3 mins 42 sec) In this episode, McDonald’s honors an employee with Down syndrome after working for 33 years, a son sings with his mother suffering from Alzheimer’s, and a teen with autism who was once non-verbal is now studying for his Masters in quantum physics! These stories and more in this week’s episode!

Autism and Speech Apraxia: Do Language Challenges Influence Behavior?

Dr. Brian Udell discusses a surprising new study that suggests there is no correlation between language deficits in children on the autism spectrum and their propensity to have meltdowns or perceived misbehavior.

Living with Epilepsy, with Tom McGranahan, Jr. | EDB 81

(15 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Tom McGranahan, Jr. Tom has epilepsy and is a tireless advocate for awareness of the condition, and is also the author of Under Siege: Epilepsy in the Open.

Study Suggests Those with Autism Can Process More Sounds Simultaneously

A recent study suggests sound processing abilities in those on the autism spectrum may surpass that of neurotypical individuals.

Different Brains and the Bottom Line: The Corporate and Social Value of Neurodiversity

Ira Bedzow discusses the benefits of integrating neurodiverse individuals into corporate environments, and how employees with different brains create stronger teams.

Assessing Autism in Adults, with Dr. Katherine Cody | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 7

(31 minutes) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Katherine Cody, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist in full-time private practice thatoffers psychological and neuropsychological evaluations including Adult Asperger’s Assessments

Doctor Raps for Concussion Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (5/13/17)

(3 mins 28 sec) In this episode, a doctor raps for concussion awareness, a boy with Down syndrome opens up a cupcake shop, and Emma Stone and Michael Phelps speak about mental health awareness for the Child Mind Institute! These stories and more in this week’s episode!

Discovering the Gifts of Different Brains, with Dr. Gail Saltz | EDB 80

(21 minutes) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. continues his conversation with Dr. Gail Saltz, a columnist, bestselling author, podcast host, television commentator, and one of the nation’s foremost go-to experts on a variety of psychological and mental health issues. Her newest book is The Power of Different.

Horses Provide Healing for Veterans Suffering from PTSD

Equines for Freedom, a non-profit organization, is devoted to helping veterans conquer symptoms of PTSD.

A Mother’s Day Shout Out To Special Needs Moms

Mari Nosal, M.Ed. reflects on the sacrifice of special needs parents, and on the rewards of raising a child that has challenges.

The First Comic Book Character with Down Syndrome

Publisher Lion Forge is set to introduce the first hero with Down syndrome in the new comic book Superb.

Autism and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, with Dr. Gil Lichtshein | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 6

(28 minutes) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Dr. Gil Lichtshein. Dr. Gil discusses what TMS is and the effects it can have on patients on the spectrum, other options for treating symptoms that come with an autism diagnosis, and the care doctors should take in prescribing medications to patients with sensitive systems.

What My Autism “Looks Like”: Differences and Similarities Across the Spectrum

Eric Zimmerman discusses the variations of interests and skills of people on the spectrum, and the myth that people with autism “look” a certain way.

Bat Boy With Down Syndrome Hits a Home Run! – Week in Neurodiversity (5/6/17)

(4 mins 14 sec) In this episode, batboy with Down syndrome gets to bat leadoff for the high school baseball team, squeeze jackets are helping those on the autism spectrum, and how can Botox help those with depression and anxiety? These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Researchers Develop Online Support for Bipolar Disorder

British researchers have developed a “cheap” and “accessible” online relapse prevention tool to help those with bipolar disorder.

The Power of Different: Appreciating the Talent in Neurodiversity, with Dr. Gail Saltz | EDB 79

(21 minutes) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Gail Saltz, a columnist, bestselling author, podcast host, television commentator, and one of the nation’s foremost go-to experts on a variety of psychological and mental health issues. Her newest book is The Power of Different.

Coding Autism: Helping People on the Spectrum Find Employment and Develop Skills

Oliver Thornton discusses his own diagnosis with Asperger’s syndrome, and how he hopes his new venture, Coding Autism, can help others on the spectrum find meaningful employment.

Autism, OCD, & Anxiety: Treating Co-Occuring Conditions, with Dr. Rebecca Sachs | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 5

(33 mins) In this episode, hosts Dr. Lauren Gerber and Becca Lory speak with Rebecca Sachs, Ph.d. ABPP, a psychologist specializing in the treatment of individuals on the autism spectrum who also experience difficult co-occurring disorders, such as severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Lady Gaga & Prince William Talk Mental Illness – Week in Neurodiversity (4/29/17)

(3 mins 54 sec) In this episode, Boy Meets World star Rider Strong makes the birthday wish of a boy with Down syndrome come true, Project UROK runs a beauty ad for anxiety, and Lady Gaga and prince Harry come together to talk mental health! These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Life After a TBI: The Invisible Challenges of an Invisible Disability

David A. Grant discusses invisible disabilities, and relays two stories about every day challenges presented by his traumatic brain injury.

Parent Advocates: Supporting Kids on the Autism Spectrum, with Stacey Hoaglund | EDB 78

(23 minutes) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman sits down again with Stacey Hoaglund, editor of The Autism Notebook Magazine, a tireless advocate for the neurodiverse, and the mother of a son on the spectrum.

Study Finds Kids with ADHD Have Questions for Doctors But Don’t Ask

A recent study suggests that children who have been diagnosed with ADHD, are eager to learn more about their condition as well as their medications- but often may not ask for the information.

The Three “A”s of Autism, with Dr. Stephen Shore | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 4

(31 mins.) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Dr. Stephen Shore- an author, autism advocate, board member for Autism Speaks and the USAAA, and professor at Adelphi University.

Bottoms-Up: The Innovative Thinking Style of the Asperger’s Mind

Samantha Craft discusses the concept of “bottom up” processing, which is common amongst people on the autism spectrum.

Can Golf Help People with Parkinson’s? – Week in Neurodiversity (4/22/17)

(4 mins 10 sec) In this episode, Julia the Muppet with autism makes her big debut, golf helps a man with Parkinson’s, and a teen with Down syndrome is voted prom queen! These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Brainwaves from Patients May Help Treat PTSD

New research suggests that technology that uses a patient’s own brainwaves may offer hope to fight severe PTSD.

Neurodiversity and Fitness: The Value in Exercise for Different Brains

Steven Dinnen discusses the importance of exercise for anyone that may have a different brain, and the fitness challenges neurodiverse conditions can present.

Respecting Individuality on the Autism Spectrum, with Michael Alessandri, Ph.D. of UM-NSU CARD | EDB 77

(24 mins) In the second of a two part interview, Hackie Reitman, M.D.continues his conversation with Dr. Michael Alessandri, Exec. Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, and chair of the Autism Innovations & Global Impact Conference hosted by Els for Autism.

Autism and ABA: What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

Rebecca Womack discusses what applied behavior analysis therapy is, and how it could be useful for some children on the autism spectrum.

Study Suggests Genetic Link Among Autism, ADHD, Bipolar, and Other Neurodiverse Conditions

According to a recent study, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and autism all have one thing in common: they can each be traced back to the same inherited genetic variations.

The First “All-Autism” Wedding, with Anita Lesko | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 3

(37 mins) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Anita Lesko- a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist diagnosed with autism at the age of 50, and the bride of the first ever “All-Autism” wedding.

Can Yoga Ease Autism-Related Anxiety? – Week in Neurodiversity (4/15/17)

(4 mins) In this episode, a yoga class is helping those with autism, a new app is keeping kids with ADHD focused, and how has this viral prom proposal vid inspired others to contribute to the special occasion? These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Living In a World with Autism When You Don’t Know You Have It

Eryn Segal discusses life before and after her diagnosis with autism, and the social challenges she finds herself facing every day.

Uniting the Autism Community, with Dr. Michael Alessandri of UM-NSU CARD | EDB 76

(24 mins) In this first of a two part interview, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Michael Alessandri, the Executive Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, and chair of the upcoming Autism Innovations & Global Impact Conference hosted by Els for Autism.

Could a Common Antibiotic Help Treat PTSD?

New research suggests that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could perhaps be treated with an antibiotic after yielding promising results from a uniquely designed trial.

Autism and Resiliency, with Dena Gassner | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 2

(33 mins) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Dena Gassner, an advocate, writer, and speaker- including presenting for the UN in Geneva, Russia, and Cambridge.

ADHD, Learning Challenges, and Life Changes: Finding a Better Way to Assess Different Brains

Tammy Elkon discusses how the journey through finding proper educational assistance for her son led her to develop a tool for assessing the abilities of those with different brains.

Legoland Becomes Autism Friendly! – Week in Neurodiversity (4/08/17)

(3 min 43 sec) In this episode, virtual reality can help diagnose concussions, a new surgery can help those with Parkinson’s, and how is Legoland creating an autism friendly experience for families on the spectrum?

Skydiving for Epilepsy: Mother Takes Flight for Newborn Daughter’s Fight

A British mother of two is skydiving to raise awareness for epilepsy in young children, and money for a hospital and the UK organization Young Epilepsy.

When Adults with Autism Face Difficult Life Change: 16 Supportive Actions

Jackie M. Marquette discusses the adversity that has touched the life of a close friends with autism, and offers tips for supporting a person on the spectrum that may be facing life changes.

How Can Doctors Support Patients With Autism? with Dr. Phillip DeMio, of the USAAA and AMAB | EDB 75

(18 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Phillip DeMio, chief operating officer of the US Autism & Asperger Association (USAAA) and the founder of the American Medical Autism Board (AMAB).

The Importance of Swimming Lessons For Those on the Autism Spectrum

Every child should learn how to swim, but recent studies show those lessons may be even more important for those on the autism spectrum.

Autism Diagnoses and Service Puppies | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 1

(43 mins) In this debut episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS share stories about how they became involved in the autism community, and how both make use of canine friends in their every day lives and work.

Just the Essentials: Can Insomnia Be Relieved Through Aromatherapy?

Megan Baksh details her recent experiences using essential oils to relieve her insomnia, as well as recent studies that suggest the value of aromatherapy as an alternative treatment for the condition.

Sesame Street Welcomes Julia, a Muppet With Autism – Week in Neurodiversity (4/01/17)

(3 mins 25 secs) In this episode, a man uses art to cope with Parkinson’s, a man becomes the first ever table tennis coach with Down syndrome, and Sesame Street introduces the first Muppet with autism! These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Medications and Different Brains: Ensuring Safe Prescription Use For Everyone

Lynn Harrelson, Pharm BS, FASCP discusses common problems related to taking medications, and offers tips on how to avoid them.

Autism in France, with Anlor Davin Author of “Being Seen” | EDB 20

(27 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Anlor Davin. Anlor is originally from France, and discusses growing up with autism, and her book “Being Seen.”

Link is found between Autism and Synesthesia

Synesthesia and autism researchers at the University of Sussex and the University of Cambridge have found that sensory symptoms of each are often linked.

Is It a Behavior or Brain Problem? Neurological Deficits in Different Brains

Debbie Hampton discusses how what might look like impulsive, irresponsible, selfish, disorganized, or unmotivated behavior may actual be a result of a problem in the brain.

Woman with Down Syndrome Realizes Dream of Delivering the Weather – Week in Neurodiversity (3/25/17)

(3 min 50 sec) In this episode, Lo Bosworth discusses her depression and anxiety diagnoses, a dance class is helping those with Parkinson’s, and a woman with Down syndrome delivers the weather report in France! These stories and more in this week’s edition!

PTSD Risk Among Soldiers Can Be Predicted, According to Study

The research at the University of Texas is only a first step to identifying those at risk of PTSD and treating them successfully, but could lead to potential preventative strategies.

Oh, The Things You Can Think! Working Together for People with Autism

Denise Resnik discusses the importance of creating supportive environments for people on the autism spectrum.

What Is Misophonia? with Dr. Jennifer Jo Brout, founder of Duke University’s Sensory Research Program | EDB 74

(23 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Jennifer Jo Brout, one of the world’s authorities on the misunderstood condition known as Misophonia.

Is “Fear Reversal Learning” Impaired in People with OCD?

Researchers tested OCD patients in an effort to examine how successful patients were at reversing their thought patterns when a once threatening stimulus became safe, and conversely, when a safe stimulus became threatening.

Teen with Down Syndrome’s Dog Treat Business is a Hit! – Week in Neurodiversity (3/18/17)

(3 min 41 sec) In this episode: an IndyCar driver breaks down concussions, boxing programs continue to help Parkinson’s patients around the country, and a girl with Down syndrome receives a national scholarship after starting her own business! These stories and more in this week’s edition!

Neurodiversity in the Arts: “Mindblind” by Jennifer Roy

Donna Levin reviews Jennifer Roy’s Mindblind, a novel about a 14 year old boy on the autism spectrum, from Skyscape Publishing.

Living After Traumatic Brain Injury – The Evolution of Life as a Survivor

David A. Grant discusses the disruptive life changes caused by his brain injury, and how he persevered as a survivor.

Debunking the Myths About Alcoholism & Addiction, w/ Professor Bankole Johnson of the U of Maryland and HBO’s “Addiction” | EDB 73

In part 2 of their interview, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Professor Bankole Johnson, head of the Brain Science Research Consortium Unit at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and one of the world’s leading authorities on the subject of addiction.

Burger Van Helps Man with Epilepsy Build a Better Life

A delivery service for hamburgers has allowed Matthew Smith, who has suffered from seizures since he was 18, to find a new level of independence.

Couple With Down Syndrome Celebrate 22 Years of Marriage – Week In Neurodiversity (3/10/17)

(3 min 48 sec) In this episode, a couple with Down syndrome celebrate 22 years of marriage, a former college football coach helps test a new Alzheimer’s treatment, and a couple with Asperger’s bring out the best in one another! These stories and more in the week’s edition.

Paving the Path to Jobs and Vocational Success for Different Brains

Angela Mahoney, M.Ed. discusses the importance of developing vocational skills for those of us with different brains, and lists simple starting points to put individuals on the path to finding employment.

Treating Addiction Through Neuroscience Breakthroughs, with Prof. Bankole Johnson of the University of Maryland School of Medicine | EDB 72

Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Professor Bankole Johnson, who heads the Brain Science Research Consortium Unit at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and is one of the world’s leading authorities on the subject of addiction.

Neuropsychology: The Map of the Head and the Benefits of Massage

Giuliana Fenwick discusses neuropsychology, maps out the various sections of the brain that play a roll in what we consider “neurodiversity”, and offers some head massage methods she believes can reduce the symptoms of autism and similar diagnoses.

Research in UK Suggests Mental Illness Not Linked to Cat Ownership

There has been speculation to whether or not a parasite present in cats may be responsible for the development of various psychoses, such as Schizophrenia.

Can Swimming With Sharks Help PTSD? – Week in Neurodiversity (3/04/17)

(4 mins 5 sec) In this episode: a former hockey player talks about living with OCD, a man bikes 4,000 miles for Parkinson’s research, and veterans with PTSD go diving with sharks! These stories and more in this week’s edition.

Getting a Second Opinion on an ADHD Diagnosis

Julie Saumsiegle discusses the importance of getting second opinions and trying all avenues when caring for a child with a different brain.

Neurodiversity and Sleep: Tips for Helping Different Brains Rest

Dr. Ben Weinstock examines the common sleep problems related to neurodiverse conditions, and offers a checklist on to combat those problems.