Couverture de Unapologetically AuDHD

Unapologetically AuDHD

Unapologetically AuDHD

De : Patricia Young Alex McLaughlin
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 Unapologetically AuDHD is a space for neurodivergent folks—especially Autistic ADHDers (AuDHDers)—to feel seen, understood, and know you’re not alone. We believe there’s nothing wrong with having a brain that’s wired differently. Through honest conversations about the highs, lows, and messy in-betweens, we normalize neurodivergent experiences, explore intersectionality, and celebrate the unique & sometimes beautiful ways of thinking, feeling, and moving through the world. Led by two AuDHDers with PDA profiles, and lived experience with OCD, this podcast exists to de-stigmatize neurodivergence; honor both strengths and limitations, and remind us that we don’t need to be “fixed”—we just want to be heard. Have you been told you’re “too” (fill in the blank)? You’re too sensitive; you think/worry too much; you take things too personally; you’re too emotional, too finicky, too fragile, too intense, too uptight, too slow. Have you been told you can’t take a joke; you can’t go with the flow? You can’t let go of things? Is making decisions difficult for you? You might have an acute sense of smell, and strong odors, crowded noisy environments and bright lights are just too much! You’re in the right place! You may have been diagnosed (or misdiagnosed) with anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline, having OCD or more. Our brain and bodies are wired differently. There’s nothing wrong with you!2025 Hygiène et vie saine Psychologie Psychologie et psychiatrie
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    Épisodes
    • 4: OCD pt. 2: OCD, ADHD & the Dishwasher Olympics: When Efficiency Becomes a Sport

      4: OCD pt. 2: OCD, ADHD & the Dishwasher Olympics: When Efficiency Becomes a Sport
      Aug 14 2025
      4: OCD pt. 2: OCD, ADHD & the Dishwasher Olympics: When Efficiency Becomes a Sport SUMMARY In this candid and often humorous episode, Patricia (she/her) and Alex (they/them) share their deeply personal neurodivergent experiences with OCD, weaving in childhood rituals, intrusive harm thoughts, contamination fears, and the tangled coexistence of Autism, ADHD, and trauma. They explore how OCD shows up in everyday life — from dishwashers to hyper-specific food hygiene rules — while unpacking the overlap between Autistic routines and OCD compulsions, the stigma around taboo intrusive thoughts like pedophilia OCD, and the toll of decision fatigue. Along the way, they discuss diagnosis challenges, the role of cultural conditioning in reinforcing OCD patterns, and evidence-based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT (ICBT), offering validation, understanding, and a dash of humor for anyone navigating the messy, nuanced reality of an OCD brain. SOME KEY THINGS DISCUSSED OCD prevalence stats in adults and children in the U.S. (a.k.a. Turtle Island) Childhood rituals with stuffed animals and early harm-related intrusive thoughts Overlap and confusion between Autistic routines, ADHD efficiency needs, and OCD compulsions Harm OCD imagery while driving and in daily life Contamination fears and hygiene rules (including mayo placement politics) Decision fatigue and how structure/routines can reduce it for Autistic & ADHD brains Somatic obsessions after allergic reactions and medication side effects Taboo intrusive thoughts, including pedophilia OCD, and the distress they cause Misdiagnosis challenges, including being told OCD symptoms were PTSD or OCPD The role of attachment injuries in triggering OCD spirals Food preoccupation as an OCD manifestation, especially with an eating disorder history Normalizing catastrophic thinking in neurodivergent lived experience Cultural and gendered reinforcement of reassurance-seeking behaviors Evidence-based OCD treatments: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and ICBT Importance of OCD specialists and screening tools like the OCI-R SOUNDBITES "OCD is showing us how much you value this thing." "It's important to work with an OCD specialist." “We don’t have to show up shiny, perky, happy all the time.” “OCD attacks what we value — it goes straight for the things that matter most to us.” “I’ve just gotten accustomed to having terrible graphic thoughts about what could happen and going, isn’t that interesting?” “My mayo has its designated spot far in the back of the fridge — and yes, I need my own.” CHAPTERS (Please adjust for the addition of the intro) 00:00 Navigating Low Energy and Self-Compassion 01:56 Understanding OCD: Facts and Statistics 03:33 Personal Journeys with OCD: Alex's Story 11:27 Diagnosis and Misunderstandings of OCD 14:24 Patricia's Experience with OCD and Autism 19:23 Coping Mechanisms and the Impact of OCD 20:50 Understanding Intrusive Thoughts and OCD 27:43 Cultural Influences on OCD and Mental Health 31:22 Therapeutic Approaches to Managing OCD 37:32 Exploring Different Therapies for OCD 40:33 Final Thoughts and Resources for OCD Support ABOUT YOUR HOSTS: Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today. Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice. Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. ...
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      44 min
    • 3: OCD: When Your Brain Plays the “What if” Game

      3: OCD: When Your Brain Plays the “What if” Game
      Aug 8 2025
      OCD: When Your Brain Plays the “What if” Game SUMMARY In this conversation, Patricia (she/her) and Alex (they/them) delve into the complexities of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), discussing its definitions, misconceptions, and talking about their lived experiences with OCD. They explore the different themes and subtypes of OCD, the impact of reassurance seeking in relationships. The discussion also touches on the intersection of OCD with autism and ADHD, emphasizing the importance of understanding these conditions in a nuanced way. The conversation concludes with reflections on finding balance in life and the challenges of perfectionism. HIGHLIGHTS: OCD is characterized by obsessions and compulsions that cause distress. Obsessions can take the form of thoughts, memories, or sensations, etc.. Compulsions are actions taken to reduce distress or prevent feared outcomes. There are various themes within OCD, including harm OCD and relationship OCD. Reassurance seeking (a compulsion) can be a significant challenge in relationships for those with OCD. Medication can be effective in managing OCD symptoms, often in combination with therapy. Perfectionism can be a form of OCD. Perfectionism may lead to avoidance of tasks. The intersection of OCD with Autism and ADHD can make diagnosis and treatment more complex. Understanding the nuances of OCD can help in finding effective coping strategies. Finding joy in structure and organization can be beneficial, but it’s important to recognize when it becomes excessive. SOUND BITES "What is OCD?" "It's a mental health condition." "Does it bring you joy?" CHAPTERS (please allow for addition of introduction) 00:00 Understanding OCD: Definitions and Misconceptions 04:20 Themes and Subtypes of OCD 12:29 The Nuances of Reassurance Seeking 17:59 Medication and Treatment Options for OCD 20:13 Exploring OCD Subtypes Further 28:25 Understanding MCAS and Its Implications 29:19 The Intersection of OCD, Autism, and ADHD 32:03 Co-occurring Conditions: Autism and OCD 33:48 Perfectionism and Its Challenges 36:34 The Journey to Diagnosis 38:14 Finding Joy in Systematization 40:31 Compensatory Strategies for Neurodivergent Minds 42:39 The Looping Behavior Analogy ABOUT YOUR HOSTS: Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today. Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice. Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more here! Additional LINKS Email us about the podcast! Top 10 tips for managing OCD: A Guidebook from an OCD therapist who truly gets ...
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      45 min
    • 2: How we met; our fears about starting a podcast, and navigating time agnosia

      2: How we met; our fears about starting a podcast, and navigating time agnosia
      Jul 31 2025
      How we met; our fears about starting a podcast, and navigating time agnosia SUMMARY In this conversation, Patricia (she/her) and Alex (they/them) explore their differing relationships with time, the impact of time sensitivities on their friendship, and the insecurities that arise in their podcasting journey. They discuss the importance of communication in relationships, especially regarding time management, and how their neurodivergent experiences shape their perspectives. The conversation also touches on feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome, highlighting the challenges of self-acceptance in a world that often prioritizes punctuality and credentials. They share their friendship journey and express their fears and concerns about starting a podcast together. The discussion emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in sharing their experiences, as well as the value of normalizing the differences in how neurodivergent individuals navigate the world. HIGHLIGHTS: Patricia and Alex have different relationships with time. Communication about feelings is crucial in relationships. Their experiences with time agnosia (FKA “time blindness”). Societal norms around time can create pressure. Imposter syndrome is real. Sharing insecurities can alleviate feelings of shame. Understanding each other's perspectives fosters empathy. Managing time sensitivities requires self-awareness. It's okay to not meet societal expectations of neuronormative time frames. Recognizing personal strengths can help with feelings of inadequacy. Executive functioning differences are common among neurodivergent individuals. Time management can be perceived as a difference rather than a deficit. Building community is essential for neurodivergent people. Authenticity and vulnerability foster connection in relationships. Self-disclosure in therapy can be a double-edged sword. Concerns about how one presents themselves in public spaces are valid. Navigating OCD in relationships requires open communication. The right audience will resonate with authentic expressions. Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, but everyone has unique strengths. Normalizing neurodivergent experiences helps reduce stigma. SOUND BITES "I have a very different relationship to time than you do." "I was having some feelings about it, but wasn't gonna say anything." "I struggle with comparison." "It's really common for anyone to have that imposter syndrome." "It's a difference, not a deficit." "I was needing some community." "The right people will find me." TOPICS EXPLORED IN ORDER: Introduction and Check-in Exploring Our Relationship with Time Navigating Time Sensitivities in Relationships Understanding Time Agnosia and Its Impact Insecurities and Imposter Syndrome Navigating Neurodivergence and Time Building Community Among Neurodivergent Therapists Fears and Concerns About Podcasting Authenticity and Vulnerability in Sharing Experiences ABOUT YOUR HOSTS: Alex McLaughlin (they/them) has a Master’s in Social Work, and is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on Wahpekute land (colonized as MN). Alex is an AuDHDer, PDAer, Queer, non-binary, fat, chronically ill, disabled, & a multi-racial (1/8th Chinese & white passing) human with lived experience of OCD. As a late diagnosed adult, Alex has felt different and embraced their quirky, eccentric nature—what they now recognize as undiagnosed AuDHD. This lifelong experience of masking and curiosity about people inspired their passion for understanding and serving others, ultimately shaping their path today. Alex provides neurodivergent and Queer-affirming therapy and Autism and ADHD assessments on Wahpekute land (colonized as Minnesota). Their work is grounded in intersectional feminism, ecological systems theory, and a commitment to decolonizing mental health care. They support clients in exploring how interconnected systems shape their experiences, while fostering resilience, empowerment, and self-understanding—especially for Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC/POGM, and disabled communities. Trained in ERP, I-CBT (including ND-affirming I-CBT), sand tray therapy, TF-CBT, and somatic approaches, Alex also brings lived experience and is pursuing IFS to deepen their parts-informed practice. Coaching, consulting and training coming soon! Head here to be notified when this practice opens! Head to Alex’s website here to connect further: Here Patricia Young (she/her) has a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She ...
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      41 min
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