Springbrook's Converge Autism Radio
Welcome to Springbrook's Converge Autism Radio, featuring viewpoints and insights about autism for parents and professionals who support children with autism every day. We select our speakers and guests based on their expertise and experience in the field of autism, and we want this program to bring you fresh ideas, practical tips and renewed hope. The ideas and opinions expressed on this program are not necessarily the viewpoint of Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health.
Beyond Diagnosis: Dr. Tony Attwood Talks Connection, Couples, and Communication
In this episode of Converge Autism Radio, hosts Stephanie Holmes and Jeremy Rochford welcome internationally renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Tony Attwood. Together they discuss his groundbreaking new book, Relationship Counseling with Autistic Neurodiverse Couples: A Guide for Professionals (co-authored with Maxine Aston). Dr. Attwood shares insights from decades of work in autism, exploring unique challenges in mixed neurotype relationships, autistic women in partnerships, and practical strategies for communication. Stephanie and Jeremy also reflect on their personal and professional experiences, offering hope and resources for couples navigating neurodiverse relationships.
Learn more and order the book: https://tonyattwood.com.au...
Finding Creativity and Confidence Through Neurodivergence
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...
Diary of an AuDHD Kid: Accommodations, Empowerment & The Power of Positivity
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...
Starting Over: Rediscovering Art Through Neurodiversity
In this episode of Converge Autism, illustrator and surface pattern designer Jo Phillips shares her extraordinary journey from medical retirement to a flourishing creative career. Battling chronic health challenges, Jo’s late diagnoses of autism (2020) and ADHD illuminated the roots of her lifelong struggles and unlocked a wave of self-compassion and clarity.
Jo candidly discusses how medication has helped ease her ADHD symptoms, offering focus and calm that transformed her daily life and creative process. She also reveals how embracing her neurodivergence has empowered her art—fueling not only her own resurgence as a surface pattern designer but also...
Neurodivergent Intimacy, Sensory Sex, and Sacred Reclamation
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...
Breaking Barriers: Women, Autism, and Inclusion with Dr. Stephanie Holmes
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 creati...
Rewriting the Story: Neurodivergent Love, Self-Acceptance, and Noise Sensitivity
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
<...
Introducing All Abilities, No Filter: Honest Conversations from the Front Lines of Autism Care
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 wh...
Assessing Benefits, Debunking Myths & Elevating ABA Practice
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: ...
Healing the Inflamed Brain: Stem Cells, Autism, and the Future of Regenerative Medicine
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 symptomsHow umbilical cord stem cells are being used safely and effectivelyWhy stem ce...
NeuroDivergent Psychiatrist, What I learned after Med School
Dr. Holmes talks with neurodivergent psychiatrist, Dr. Stacy Greeter.
Topics discussed:
Dr. Greeter's diagnosis journey at the age of 40 as a practicing psychiatrist.Growing understanding of AutismMyths about AutismDifferent presentations of girls/women in AutismGender Fluidity & AutismMedications and How to be a psychiatric patient and advocate for yourself as an autistic patientDr. Stacy Greeter is board certified in both child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. She collaborates with children, adults, and their families to design a comprehensive individualized treatment plan.Dr. Greeter graduated summa cum laude from Duke University where she was inducted into the Phi Beta...
Creating Space for All Voices of Talent
Today, Dr. Holmes talks to Heidi and Robin about AVA: Autistic Voiceover Artists.
What if there was a place- a program- a community for autistic adults who want to use their voice talents in the voiceover industry? THERE IS!Â
About our Guests:
Heidi S. Hackney MS, PCC, Co-FounderCertified Autism Coach, ICF Accredited Life Coach, Masters in Human Development
Robin Brooke SAG-AFTRA, AEA, Co-FounderProfessional Voiceover Talent of 20+ Years. Established VO Instructor and Coach. AVA Program Director.
How to contact:
https://autisticvoiceoverartists.org/
About the Program
Autism-Friendly CoursesUnlock Your Voiceover Ar...
My Journey with Autism and ADHD: The Aspie World
Today, Dr. Stephanie talks to Dan of the Aspie World! Are we still allowed to say Aspie? Dan talks us through his autism identification and how that led him to build one of the first platforms on social media about adult autism.
Hello friends,
I want to share something deeply personal—something that completely shifted the trajectory of my life.
At 26, I received a formal diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome (now Autism Spectrum Disorder), along with ADHD, OCD, and Dyslexia. That moment wasn't about becoming someone new; it was about finally understanding who I always wa...
Interoception: Your 8th Sense
Today, Dr. Holmes talks with Occupational Therapist, Kelly Mahler. The topic is interoception! Every neurotype can struggle with it but we find neurodivergent folks can have a few more challenges with interoception.
Defined by Kelly's website: Many people notice these feelings in their body with the help of an important sense… a sense called (drum roll please)… interoception.
Don’t let the name fool you. The word interoception might not sound very sexy or important. But this sense is a really big deal. Interoception has a huge influence on many areas of our lives like self-regulation, mental heal...
Assessing Benefits, Debunking Myths and Exploring Treatment Components for Autism
Dr. Stephanie discusses ABA and Autism with Converge Autism Summit speaker Courtney Lasky, PHD candidate.Â
About the speaker: Courtney Lasky, M.Ed., BCBA, LBAÂ
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 he...
Navigating Neurodiversity with Spark Launch
In this episode, I’m joined by the dynamic duo behind the Spark Launch Podcast—Chaya Mallavaram and Mike Cornell. Chaya is a tech entrepreneur, professional artist, and founder of Spark Launch, where she helps create transformative spaces for neurodivergent learners. Mike is a peer support specialist and lifelong creative who brings a raw, honest voice to mental health advocacy. Together, they’ve launched Spark Launch—a podcast that dives deep into the lived realities of neurodivergent life. From parenting and executive dysfunction to emotional regulation, identity, and creativity, their conversations are as real as they are healing. We talk about wh...
Detecting Autism Among the Ever Broadening Spectrum
Join Dr. Stephanie and Dr. Saulnier as they discuss her presentation at the Converge Autism Summit on broadening the autism spectrum.
https://nacsatl.com/
They will discuss:
The key features of autism
How Autism symptoms are expressed differently in male and femaleThe role of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in misdiagnosis of autismCommon overlaps and differential diagnosis
Dr. Saulnier obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Connecticut. She trained and worked at the Yale Child Study Center’s Autism Program for nearly a decade before relocating to Emory University School of...
A Holistic Approach of Care
Converge Autism Summit and Converge Autism Radio are sponsored by Springbrook Behavioral Health. Have you ever wondered what exactly Springbrook does? Join Dr. Stephanie as she talks with Scott Compton about Springbrook to discuss the unique approach to care for kids and teens on the spectrum who are in crisis.
Scott Compton serves as the Regional Director of Business Development at Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health. In this role, he is instrumental in organizing the annual National Converge Autism Summit, a prominent event that brings together professionals, educators, clinicians, and families to discuss various aspects of autism, including diagnosis...
Neurodiversity Training for Relationship Coaching Matters!
Panelists from all over the world who work with neurodivergent relationships including Dr. Stephanie Holmes. Can neurodiverse relationships work? Does autism "ruin families" (spoiler alert- no). Does neurodiversity training matter when looking for a coach or counselor to help your neurodiverse marriage or relationship? YES!
Listen in with our host, Dr. Stephanie Holmes is part of a panel of neurodiverse relationship experts across the globe!
www.springbrookbehavioral.com
www.convergeautism.com
www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
Embracing NeuroDiversity and Creativity
Today Dr. Stephanie interviews Dani Bowman from Love on the Spectrum. We will talk about her involvement with the show and how she built her company DaniMation.
More about our Guest: Dani Bowman, BFA, MBAPresident, DaniMation Entertainment. Dani Bowman, an individual on the autism spectrum, established her company, DaniMation Entertainment, in 2009. Over the years, she has spearheaded summer animation camps and conducted personalized online 1:1 sessions, diligently educating, elevating, and empowering her students on the autism spectrum. With her guidance, she has successfully helped more than 2,500 students explore the transformation of their passions into viable careers.In her own educ...
Neurodivergence: A Buddhist Perspective
Join Kristin, Toni and Melinda for a deep dive into the world of Autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence within Buddhist communities.Â
Toni Boucher started working with individuals on the spectrum over 35 years ago as a foster care and emergency respite provider. As the director of the CARE Clinic where she provided autism evaluations and determined eligibility for The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs- Autism Division, she discovered the need for further research and information about females on the spectrum and began training professionals how to identify and support neurodivergent women. Her book Autism Translated is the re...
Planning Ahead for Two Lifetimes
Join Dr. Stephanie as she discusses financial planning with Converge Autism Summit speaker, Ryan Platt. We invite you to learn more about Special Needs Planning including Special Needs Trusts, ABLE Accounts, Guardianship, Government Benefits, Tax Implications, Future Caregiving and more!
About our Guest:
Ryan founded A Special Needs Plan in 2005 and has been a pioneer in his field. He completed his Special Care Planner Certification at the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and his background includes advanced training in estate and tax planning, special needs trusts, government programs, and the emotional dynamics of w...
NeuroDiverse Marriages Require NeuroDiverse Training
Dr. Stephanie Holmes and Dr. Sean Hirt discuss their clinical training and how neither were trained in neurodiversity despite the update in thinking about the Autism Spectrum (DSM-IV Asperger's). Dr. Holmes and Dr. Hirt discuss that applying neurotypical marriage models to Neurodiverse couples is not only not helpful but potentially harmful. Dr. Hirt discusses the role of the central nervous system and its impact on regulation and how typical marriage work may disrupt both partners.Â
About Our Guest:
Dr. Hirt has an array of clinical experience in a variety of settings including private practice, residential tre...
Special Education Advocacy
Join Dr. Stephanie and Tiffany in an interactive discussion which will help you delve deeper into understanding your rights as a parent with a school-age child with disabilities. You will have a solid understanding of the variety of support plans, how to navigate the school teams, and how to ensure your child is getting everything they need to be successful within school!
About our Guest:Tiffany Yandle is a non-attorney Special Education Advocate and President of In Bloom Advocacy. She has a 15+ year history of teaching Special Education and school administration in North Carolina public schools. S...
Enhancing Clinical Prescriptions in Applied Behavior Analysis
Dr. Stephanie speaks with Converge Autism Summit speaker, Quatiba Davis. Points of the discussion include; 1) how to create scientific prescriptions with outside testing/testimony; 2) using ABA skills assessments and adaptive assessments to clearly identify the treatment plan package; 3)the impact of IQ on progress and outcomes; 4)data analysis and its importance to monitoring outcomes and progress. The discussion also includes how children and adolescents of color, while becoming diagnosed, are diagnosed later due to stigma and bias and how cultural competence is part of creating a proper plan.Â
About the Speaker:
Qu...
Involved Fathers Get Results!
Today Dr. Stephanie is joined by her husband Dan (Just the Guys Host) to discuss the difference involved and engaged dads make on their family system but most importantly the outcome for their autistic child. Dr. Naseef is a speaker at the 2025 Converge Autism Summit.
Robert Naseef, Ph.D. has a distinct voice as a psychologist and father of an adult son with autism. He has spoken around the country and trained professionals internationally in treating autism and other developmental disorders and supporting families. He has a special interest in the psychology of men and fatherhood.Along with...
Off the Spectrum with Madonna!
Join producer, comedian, and media analyst Madonna Kilpatrick and Kristin for a show that explores the world, from art and pop culture to science and current events, from a neurodivergent lens.
https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/off-the-spectrum--3579371
www.springbrookbehavioral.com
www.convergeautism.com
www.allabilitiesnofilter.com
My World, Your World, Our World: Thriving with Autism
Today our guest is Kim Clairy, OTR/L and her husband William. Kim will be a speaker at the 2025 Converge Autism Summit. Today Dr. Stephanie talks with Kim about autism and sensory issues and how an occupational therapist can help.
About our Guest:
Kim Clairy OTR/L is a Brenau University graduate with a BS/MS in occupational therapy. Kim has been invited to share her expertise on autism for over 100 organizations in 7 countries. She is a frequent contributor to autism related projects and podcasts and has contributed to numerous publications on autism. Additionally, Kim is a...
Living Undiagnosed for Decades
Discover the unexpected truth about autism in adulthood. Uncover the surprising journey of Sylvia Moore Myers a late-diagnosed autistic individual who overcame trauma and grief while becoming an expert on autism. Find out how Sylvia's life coaching and advocacy work is reshaping the narrative around autism. Stay tuned to learn more about Sylvia's remarkable story and the impact of her work.At 62 years old, after years of research and writing her first book, Sylvia Moore Myers discovered something life-changing—she was autistic. Reflecting on her life, especially the grief and trauma surrounding her mother's passing, Sylvia found a deep connection to...
When a Diagnosis is Empowering
This is not your typical coaching interview. Amy Armstrong is our guest and in her work she helps parents and break through conflict with heart-centered, fool-proof boundaries.  Amy is a licensed social worker and entrepreneur, Amy has spent over a decade navigating the intersection of mental health and domestic law. She is the founder amd director of The Center for Family Resolution, Amy leads a team of skilled coaches who specialize in groundbreaking parenting and co-parenting solutions trusted by domestic courts in Ohio and beyond. She also directs The Center for Coach Development, an ICF-accredited program that is a game-changer fo...
A Life Examined with Neurodivergent Advocate Gray Rodgers
In this episode, Reid Miles sits down with Gray Rodgers, the founder of the Swadlincote Aspergers Society, to explore the multifaceted experiences of living with Asperger's Syndrome. Gray's personal journey, from his own diagnosis to the successful evolution of the society, offers a unique and insightful perspective on the challenges and triumphs within the autism community. The episode covers a wide range of topics, from sensory issues and special interests to the importance of peer support-led groups and the evolving perceptions of autism. Gray's candid discussion about coming out as non-binary and the impact of expert by experience consultants further...
Brain Balance: A Doctor's Perspective on Neurological Functioning
In this episode of Converge Autism, host Reid Miles of Inside the Asperger's Studio dives into a captivating conversation with Dr. Robert Melillo, an esteemed expert in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Melillo shares his personal journey, education, and challenges related to autism and ADHD, offering valuable insights into his method. The episode delves into the significance of understanding the complexities of the brain and central nervous system, particularly in individuals with Asperger's and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Melillo's holistic approach, incorporating neurological exercises, dietary modifications, and personalized cognitive interventions, underlines the effectiveness of his method in addressing the...
Breaking Barriers: The Journey of an Autistic Playwright
Discover the unexpected truth about the impact of autism representation in theater and how one playwright is breaking barriers. Uncover the powerful story that's creating waves in education and beyond. Stay tuned for an eye-opening revelation.Matteo Esposito, a 26-year-old autistic playwright and set designer hailing from Ontario, Canada, brings a unique and personal insight to the world of theater. Through his artistic endeavors, Matteo seeks to shatter stereotypes and promote acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum. His dedication to crafting plays that delve into the nuances of autism drives home the message of embracing diversity and celebrating differences...
ASD, ADHD, & AuDHD: Part 2
Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, ND RP is a dually licensed naturopathic doctor, registered psychotherapist, and a Canadian leader in trauma, PTSD, and integrative medicine strictly informed by scientific research.She was diagnosed at 46, and her autism plays a significant role in who she is as a doctor, and how she interacts with and cares for her patients and clients.
Today Dr. Stephanie and Dan Holmes ask Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht about ASD, ADHD and both in Part 2 of this series.
Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht is a clinician in Canada and diagnosed later in life with both ASD and ADHD...
ASD, ADHD & AuDHD: Part 1
Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, ND RP is a dually licensed naturopathic doctor, registered psychotherapist, and a Canadian leader in trauma, PTSD, and integrative medicine strictly informed by scientific research.She was diagnosed at 46, and her autism plays a significant role in who she is as a doctor, and how she interacts with and cares for her patients and clients.
Today Dr. Stephanie and Dan Holmes ask Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht about ASD, ADHD and both?
Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht is a clinician in Canada and diagnosed later in life with both ASD and ADHD. Dr. Natalie will break down...
An ADHD Career Coach's Keys to Job Search Success
Shell Mendleson, an experienced ADHD career coach, brings over 35 years of expertise
in career coaching and counseling to the table. With a master's degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling and training under the renowned author Reid Miles, Shell has guided and impacted the lives of over 1500 clients. Her passion lies in helping individuals navigate career transitions, aligning their skills with personal aspirations and work environment preferences. Through her interactive and instructional masterclass, she empowers individuals to gain clarity on their career direction and take confident steps towards their goals. Shell's profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD...
Empower Neurodiverse Lives: Mentoring the Mentors
Matthew Bogenschutz, director of the Virginia Leadership Education and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Program (VA LEND), shares his lifelong journey of being surrounded by individuals with disabilities, stemming from his parents' direction of a summer camp for kids with physical disabilities. This early exposure ignited his passion for supporting individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives within their communities. Throughout his career, Matthew has worn multiple hats, from being a mental health counselor and disability advocate to now serving as a professor of social work at Virginia Commonwealth University. His commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities led him to ini...
Weighted Pillows: Deep Pressure for Dopamine and Sleep
Mikey Goldman, the founder of Quiet Mind, shared a compelling journey about his personal experience living with ADHD and sensory processing disorder. From his childhood struggles to the challenges of finding effective coping mechanisms, his story resonates with those managing similar mental health conditions. Mikey's journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the calming effects of weighted blankets. However, he found them to be cumbersome and impractical for daily use. This realization ignited a spark, leading him to develop the world's first weighted pillow. His passion for creating a solution that could benefit not only himself but also others...
Creating A Community of Autism Allies
Reid Miles is joined by Tony Mantor and Katie Griswold, two individuals dedicated to raising autism awareness through personal stories. Tony, a renowned producer, delves into his unexpected journey into advocating for autism awareness, sparked by a video for first responders and a subsequent collaboration with a speech therapist for autistic children. Katie's introduction to the cause came through her mother reaching out to Tony, leading to her inspiring involvement in music and pageantry. Both guests share their unique experiences, shedding light on the diverse spectrum of autism. Through this captivating narrative, Reid aims to foster understanding and empathy, ultimately...
Pageants & My NeuroDiversity
Today Stephanie talks with Brittany Browne about her recent diagnosis. Many topics are covered but a key point is on the vulnerability that can occur for undiagnosed women on the spectrum.
Brittany Browne is licensed massage therapist and contestant in the 2024 Mrs. Georgia America Pageant. Brittany’s mission on this platform is to elevate the conversation around neurodiversity, with a particular emphasis on understanding and advocating for women with autism. Her journey from acquiring a Master’s degree in International Affairs at Georgia Tech to embracing holistic healing practices, including somatic and psychedelic therapy, offers a unique lens through...
