EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids

is an autism diagnosis actually helpful for your child — or could it hurt them? many parents hesitate to pursue an evaluation because they worry about labels, stigma, or putting their child “in a box.” but avoiding the diagnosis doesn’t change whether your child is autistic. what it changes is how clearly you understand your child and how effectively you can support them. in this episode of EVOLVE with Dr. Tay, we break down both the logistical and emotional realities of autism diagnosis. Dr. Tay explains why a diagnosis can unlock support, provide language for self-understanding, and help families move toward greater acceptance and advocacy while also acknowledging the grief and stigma that can arise along the way. this episode is especially helpful if you’re in the pre-diagnosis stage or if your child was recently diagnosed and you’re still processing what that means for your family. in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 understanding autism diagnosis: a parent’s dilemma 06:54 logistical benefits of an autism diagnosis 13:36 emotional aspects of autism diagnosis 19:06 navigating stigma and self-advocacy resources ⚡️ learn more about autism evaluations through Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care https://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ if your child already has a diagnosis and you’re wondering how to talk with them about it, check out the masterclass inside EVOLVE the membership https://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ continue learning from me >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

when should medication be part of your child’s support plan? for many parents of autistic kids, medication feels heavy. scary. final. like something you only consider when everything else has failed. but what if medication isn’t a cure-all or a last resort — what if it’s simply one tool in the toolkit? in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down the nuanced role medication can play in supporting autistic children, especially when dysregulation, capacity, and mental health are limiting your child’s ability to access therapy, accommodations, or even their own joy. this isn’t about quick fixes. it’s about expanding capacity. in this episode, you’ll hear: 00:00 introduction to medication support for autistic children 00:27 common misconceptions about medication 00:56 benefits and considerations for medication use 01:23 medication alongside therapeutic approaches 02:16 research insights on medication and behavioral support 03:08 using medication for anxiety and emotional dysregulation 03:33 recognizing when medication might be needed 04:03 indicators of nervous system dysregulation in therapy 05:06 medication as a tool 06:14 understanding stimulant medications (e.g., adderall, ritalin) 06:43 the “capacity cup” metaphor 07:38 teaching internal regulation alongside medication 09:28 anxiety management and exposure-based therapies 10:39 environmental stressors and medication’s role 12:29 medication optimization and careful dosing 13:20 addressing fears about personality loss and side effects 14:42 weighing risks and benefits to improve quality of life 15:31 advocacy tips for working with prescribing providers 16:42 invitation to medication consideration masterclass 17:11 closing remarks resources ⚡️ episodes referenced include 94 and 139 with Dr. Arielle Rubin and 177 with Dr. Stacy Greeter ⚡️ medication consideration masterclass (inside EVOLVE the membership): join here >> https://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + clinical services: https://drtaylorday.com

are you constantly wondering if you’re doing too much… or not enough… for your autistic child? in autism parenting, it can feel like every decision is high stakes. you hear “lower demands.” you hear “do exposure.” you hear “presume competence.” you hear autistic voices sharing lived experience. and somehow, you’re still left wondering what actually applies to your child. this episode won’t give you a black-and-white formula. but it will help you understand how to think through this question in a grounded, regulated way — and how to navigate the tension between accommodation and over accommodation without swinging to extremes. in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 the importance of nuance in autism parenting 03:05 navigating accommodation vs over accommodation 11:29 understanding exposure therapy and its nuances 16:08 balancing structure and flexibility in parenting 23:08 empowering autonomy and self-advocacy in children resources ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership and be live for the upcoming masterclass on this topic (March 2026) ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services ⚡️ follow me on instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 screen time doesn’t have to be all or nothing. in this episode, Dr. Tay sits down with Ash Brandin, @thegamereducator and author of Power On, to talk about balancing technology in a way that feels realistic, empowering, and aligned with your child’s brain, especially in neurodivergent children. this conversation moves beyond fear-based messaging and into nuance — exploring regulation, accommodations, executive functioning, transitions, and digital safety through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. in this episode: timestamps 00:00 introduction and today’s topic: screen time and technology 00:37 meet Ash Brandin 02:47 Ash’s journey to educating parents on technology 04:50 the importance of neutrality in technology use 06:10 balancing screen time: practical tips and insights 18:18 teaching technology skills: a lifelong approach 22:40 the benefits of screen time for autistic children 25:15 video games as accommodating environments 27:22 observing and learning from kids’ screen time 27:44 addressing hesitancy in using accommodations 29:58 engaging with kids through screen time 30:40 the importance of digital safety 31:48 exploring the book’s structure and key concepts 32:13 understanding access, behavior, and content in screen time 36:28 strategies for managing screen time transitions 40:04 final thoughts and resources RESOURCES ⚡️ follow Ash on Instagram and on Substack ⚡️ order Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family ⚡️ join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning. dive into the included masterclass to dive deeper into navigating screen time and its benefits for autistic kids ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 in this special episode, Dr. Tay shares a live coaching session with Winter, a mom of a 6-year-old autistic boy. listeners are invited inside a real, unscripted coaching conversation — one that mirrors the questions, emotions, and uncertainty so many parents carry quietly. together, Dr. Tay and Winter explore what it’s like to sit with grief and acceptance at the same time, to question whether current supports are actually helping, and to feel the pressure to “do enough” while also wanting space to breathe. Dr. Tay helps Winter slow things down, name what’s coming up beneath the urgency, and reflect on what alignment, confidence, and quality of life could look like for her family. this episode offers a window into how parent coaching can help you: if you’ve ever wondered what parent coaching actually sounds like — or wished for a space to talk things through out loud with someone who truly gets it — this episode is for you. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction and episode overview 00:06 meet winter and her journey 02:52 navigating early diagnosis and initial support 04:02 challenges, grief, and emotional struggles 11:57 finding the right support and community 20:30 navigating autism as a first-time parent 20:43 the pressure of early intervention 21:53 the impact of how diagnoses are delivered 23:04 support systems and clinical care 23:47 parenting with confidence and love 27:09 concerns about the future 33:33 advocating for disability needs in public spaces 37:25 building community and self-advocacy 39:54 closing reflections and resources RESOURCES ⚡️ Connect with Winter @aspectrumfueledpurpose ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey, with the option to add on a 1:1 coaching session like this ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + other services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 if you’ve recently received an autism diagnosis — or you’re pretty sure one is coming — this episode is for you. many parents expect to feel relief after a diagnosis. sometimes that happens briefly. but more often, things actually feel heavier, more confusing, and more urgent. in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down why that happens, names the “trap of urgency” so many families fall into, and explains what actually helps in this early post-diagnosis phase. want more support? the You Got The Diagnosis. Now What? program was designed for you! a four-week, neurodiversity-affirming program designed to support families in the space between diagnosis and action — focused on clarity, self-trust, and sustainable next steps. LEARN MORE HERE: https://drtay.thrivecart.com/you-got-the-diagnosis-now-what CHAPTERS 00:00 navigating the autism diagnosis journey 02:26 understanding why diagnosis can create more questions 12:41 clarity over urgency: slowing down without falling behind 23:59 introducing support for families in the post-diagnosis phase RESOURCES ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and other services https://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 this episode marks a big milestone — 200 episodes — and a very human return after an unplanned pause. Dr. Tay shares openly about what led to stepping back, including grief, perfectionism, and the pressure she felt to make the “right” episode for this moment. from there, the conversation widens into something deeper: how personal values, neurodiversity-affirming care, and what’s happening in our country are deeply intertwined. this is an episode about alignment — as a parent, as a clinician, and as a human — and why staying silent doesn’t feel like an option when your values are at stake. CHAPTERS 00:00 return from hiatus and celebrating 200 episodes 05:48 navigating personal challenges, caregiving, and grief 12:19 the intersection of personal beliefs and professional practice 20:37 the importance of human connection in parenting 26:23 values, advocacy, and human rights 33:05 core values in clinical practice 36:38 affirming neurodivergence through collaboration 40:15 integrity, repair, and whole-family healing 44:00 living in alignment with your values 49:43 reflecting on privilege and responsibility in advocacy RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership: a space for questions, community, and neurodiversity-affirming guidance https://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and current services https://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

this week’s episode was inspired directly by a diagnostic feedback session inside dr. tay’s clinical practice. one parent asked a question that so many others wonder: “should i be teaching social skills to my autistic child… and if so, how?” in this episode, dr. tay breaks down why traditional social skills approaches often miss the mark, how they can unintentionally promote masking, and what a neurodiversity-affirming approach looks like instead. you’ll learn: TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction and episode inspiration 00:21 diagnostic feedback and recommendations 01:57 therapeutic approaches and parent coaching 04:34 addressing social skills in autistic children 05:52 neurodiversity affirming approaches 08:00 practical strategies and role-playing 12:04 real-life situations and empathy building 16:16 parental involvement and social skills groups 23:03 conclusion and next steps RESOURCES ⚡️need more support navigating this? Join EVOLVE the membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space to ask YOUR questions. ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services, including her small group therapy model, at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ keep learning Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of supporting parents in the autistic journey. Joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom and coach for parents of autistic children, they discuss the role of parents as primary co-regulators for their children as well as strategies for staying regulated, building self-trust, and supporting their children's behaviors. They also explore systemic issues, coping mechanisms, and the need for a holistic approach that includes listening to autistic voices. Despite the focus on parents, the core message underscores the importance of a balanced support system for the entire family unit. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:28 Lisa Candera's Background and Passion 00:45 The Role of Parents in Autism Support 01:28 Podcast Introduction and Disclaimer 02:30 Lisa's Journey as a Single Mom 05:25 Challenges and Early Diagnosis 06:48 Navigating Resources and Support Systems 08:27 The Importance of Parental Education 16:04 Understanding OCD and Autism 22:59 Coaching and Self-Regulation 28:21 Understanding the Distinctness of OCD 28:30 The Complexity of Compulsions 29:01 Parental Instincts and Fix-It Mode 29:31 The Illogical Nature of OCD 30:06 OCD and Autism: The Just Right Feeling 31:22 Building Acceptance in Parenting 32:22 The Psychological Definition of Acceptance 33:46 Behavioral Issues and Parental Pressure 35:05 Supporting Parents: Tips and Strategies 37:24 Validating Experiences Before Problem Solving 38:01 Common Challenges and Seeking Support 39:21 Navigating Grief and Acceptance 40:02 Ambiguous Grief and GOMO 41:17 Being the Safe Person and Self-Advocacy 44:31 Parental Regulation and Child's Behavior 46:36 Building a Well-Rounded Support Team 48:29 The Power of Tone and Voice 52:12 Conclusion and Resources RESOURCES ⚡️ Continue learning from Lisa Candera at theautismmomcoach.com/ and @theautismmomcoach on Instagram and Facebook ⚡️ Download the Meltdown Action Plan ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses impulse control for autistic children and offers proactive strategies to develop this skill without inducing shame. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of a regulated state for teaching impulse control and using fun, engaging games like Red Light, Green Light and Simon Says. The episode also answers questions from parents, such as managing inappropriate comments and excessive affectionate behaviors. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:24 Inspiration Behind the Episode 01:30 Understanding Impulse Control in Autistic Children 03:02 Proactive Skill Building Strategies 03:53 Engaging Activities to Teach Impulse Control 06:29 Addressing Common Questions from Parents 15:36 Impulse Control vs. Other Behavioral Issues 17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts RESOURCES ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + suggest topics for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the often overlooked yet crucial concept of interoception and its importance in supporting autistic children. Joined by guest Kelly Mahler, an experienced occupational therapist specializing in this area, they dive into what interoception is, how it impacts autistic children, and actionable strategies to improve interoceptive awareness. The conversation also touches on the significance of adult modeling, school-based interventions, and a comprehensive approach to sensory regulation. Additionally, they explore the connection between interoception and autistic burnout, providing valuable insights and resources for parents and educators. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 02:04 Guest Introduction: Kelly Mahler 02:11 Kelly's Journey into Interoception 04:17 Understanding Interoception 08:57 Interoception in Autistic Individuals 14:44 Building Interoceptive Awareness in Kids 23:16 Challenges and Advocacy in Schools 25:25 Understanding Interoception and Compliance 26:01 Adult Modeling and Focus Area Experiments 28:59 Sequential Process: Body, Emotion, Action 32:18 Challenges in School-Based OT and Sensory Regulation 38:47 Autistic Burnout and Interoception 46:52 Resources and Final Thoughts RESOURCES ⚡️ check out all of Kelly’s resources → www.kelly-mahler.com ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 dr. tay dives deep into perfectionism — how it shows up in autism parenting, in clinical work, and even in content creation. she shares personal reflections, a powerful story from her group therapy model, and a reminder that perfectionism can hide behind our best intentions to help. this episode explores: TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction: what perfectionism looks like in parenting 00:54 reflections from clinical practice and lived experience 01:33 perfectionism behind the scenes of podcasting and social media 02:36 when “doing it right” becomes doing too much 12:46 finding the balance between accommodation and over-accommodation 21:17 learning to release control and practice repair over perfection 25:15 a group reflection on perfectionism and shared growth 35:42 closing encouragement and ways to stay connected RESOURCES ⚡️ join evolve: the membership — a space for parents to reflect, connect, and grow through their autism journey. ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach and current clinical services at drtaylorday.com. ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit questions (they may be featured on a future episode!) instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay sits down with Jessie Caraway, creator of the If You Know One Project, to talk about her family’s journey, her daughter’s autism diagnosis, and how the project grew out of a desire to build community and awareness. They reflect on the long road to an autism diagnosis, reframing “high support needs,” and the importance of seeing each autistic child through a lens of humanity rather than fear or deficit. Jessie shares how her journey with her daughter, Eliza, inspired her to create the If You Know One Project — a space that celebrates individuality and connection through neurodiversity-affirming awareness, apparel, and storytelling. Together, Dr. Tay and Jessie explore what it means to move forward with compassion, to hold complexity in parenting, and to remind families that every story — every one — matters. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement 00:29 Host’s Background and Podcast Purpose 01:31 Guest Introduction and Family Background 02:01 Starting the If You Know One Project 03:29 Community Engagement and Resource Sharing 06:50 Challenges in the Diagnosis Journey 11:36 Navigating the Healthcare System 18:23 The If You Know One Project’s Mission and Future Goals 22:59 Navigating the Journey Together 23:22 Support for Families 24:04 Community and Connection 24:33 Understanding High Support Needs 25:22 The Value of Individuality 26:20 Perspective Shifts and Humanity 28:24 Building Trust and Communication 32:19 Sharing Stories and Advocacy 36:12 Encouragement for Parents 38:56 Final Thoughts and Resources 💛 RESOURCES ⚡️ Connect with Jessie Caraway + The If You Know One Project: Instagram → @jess_ifyouknowone Etsy Shop → If You Know One ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 this episode is a replay of my instagram live q+a, where we processed the recent press conference linking autism and tylenol. i shared reflections on research, stigma, and neurodiversity-affirming care, and answered parent questions in real time. we covered the nuance of research, medication conversations, ableism and stigma, and most importantly — how parents can ground themselves and their families. a special thank you to sam marion, lcsw (@sammarioncounseling) for moderating the live chat and helping to hold respectful space for this conversation. THE JUST ONE THING CHALLENGE toward the end of this episode, i introduce the just one thing challenge—a free 7-day practice designed to help parents slow down, ground themselves, and notice one small glimmer in the middle of daily overwhelm. join the just one thing challenge starting monday, october 6th, 2025 – on instagram: follow @the.dr.tay and message JOTCHALLENGE – not on instagram? sign up here TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction + intent of the live 01:46 introducing sam marion 03:51 processing the press conference 06:20 what neurodiversity affirming care really means 07:50 dr. tay’s background + perspective 09:52 making sense of autism research 12:36 diving into parent questions 24:05 responding to the administration’s narrative 39:54 fda-approved medications + leucovorin discussion 41:51 understanding pda + affirming supports 44:15 debunking tylenol + autism myths 45:56 confronting stigma + ableism 48:58 concerns about government policies 51:54 supporting autistic kids + families 01:10:51 the just one thing challenge 01:15:34 closing reflections + resources RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership to find community + support in your parenting journey ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay's whole family approach + current clinical services offered at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me + submit questions that may be featured on a future episode >> instagram @the.dr.tay tiktok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini, spontaneous episode, Dr. Tay addresses the recent press conference where the administration linked autism to Tylenol, causing guilt and anxiety among parents. She emphasizes the importance of taking time to process emotions, the prevalence of misinformation, and the need for compassion. Dr. Tay reassures listeners that it's okay to take a pause, mute social media, and focus on emotional processing rather than seeking immediate answers. She encourages parents to embrace their current reality with their autistic child and highlights the complexity of autism's causes. 00:00 Introduction 00:19 Addressing the Press Conference on Autism and Tylenol 00:52 Processing and Community Feedback 02:25 Neurodiversity and Emotional Support 05:08 Clarifying Misconceptions about Autism Causes 06:38 Encouragement and Self-Care Tips 09:47 Final Thoughts and Outro RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here to have a community support you during these trying times ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares a sneak peek into a training within EVOLVE the memberhsip. Sh dives into the concept of low demand parenting, particularly for families with children who resonate with the PDA profile. Dr. Tay introduces and explains the "3 Bucket Approach" to help parents manage demands and boundaries effectively. The episode also outlines the benefits of joining the membership where deeper guidance, resources, and community support are provided. Additionally, Dr. Tay highlights the importance of understanding family values and giving children autonomy, while maintaining necessary non-negotiable boundaries for safety and key family values. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:36 Membership Insights and Podcast Differences 01:15 Introducing a New Resource 02:22 Understanding Low Demand Parenting 06:21 The Three Bucket Approach 06:55 Non-Negotiables and Key Family Values 08:41 The Shoulds: Dropping Unnecessary Demands 11:01 The Ideal or Yet Bucket 11:57 Practical Examples and Applications 15:48 Conclusion and Membership Invitation 18:00 Episode Wrap-Up and Future Content RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist and parental coach specializing in neurodiversity affirming care, explores the concept of jealousy and why it is a valid and normal emotion. Dr. Tay discusses the importance of experiencing and processing jealousy, rather than suppressing it, and how this can impact personal growth and well-being. The episode also addresses the complexity of co-existing emotions like hope and jealousy, and provides insights on how to navigate these feelings as a parent of an autistic child. Dr. Tay shares personal stories, professional insights, and practical advice on emotion regulation to help parents better support themselves and their families. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:05 Understanding Jealousy as a Valid Emotion 01:15 The Impact of Suppressing Emotions 04:06 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Processing 12:06 Real-Life Applications and Parental Support 18:27 Affirmation and Momentum 18:42 Understanding Jealousy 19:06 Balancing Emotions 19:31 Validating Emotions 20:53 Navigating Jealousy and Hope 21:39 Seeking Support 24:00 Embracing Jealousy 26:38 Reflecting on Jealousy 33:15 Final Thoughts and Resources RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here and listen to my glimmers training that helps you to better understand progress ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered. visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay delves into the underexplored topic of couples therapy within the autism community, emphasizing its proactive rather than reactive use. Joined by Dr. Ali Perkinson, a neurodiverse couples therapist and licensed psychologist, the discussion covers how couples therapy can support harmonious family dynamics, understanding neurodiverse communication styles, and breaking down stigmas around couples therapy. Dr. Ali shares insights from her practice, highlighting the importance of co-regulation between parents and addressing executive functioning differences. The episode also offers practical tools such as the emotion wheel and the significance of sensory management, aiming to equip parents with strategies that can foster a more neuro-inclusive household. 00:00 Introduction to Couples Therapy in Autism Parenting 00:50 Meet Dr. Ali: Neurodiverse Couples Therapist 02:22 Understanding Neurodiverse Relationships 03:13 Communication Challenges in Neurodiverse Couples 07:15 Common Reasons Couples Seek Therapy 08:25 Proactive vs. Crisis Couples Therapy 10:56 Navigating New Autism Diagnoses as a Family 20:28 Tools and Tips for Neurodiverse Families 22:44 The Importance of Venting in Relationships 22:56 The Fixer Mentality: Strengths and Pitfalls 23:45 Alternative Date Night Ideas for Neurodiverse Couples 24:21 Co-Regulation and Physical Activities 24:54 Therapeutic Modalities for Couples 26:20 Exploring Psychedelic Therapy 30:32 Addressing Executive Dysfunction in Relationships 34:18 Understanding Neurodiverse Love Languages 38:01 The Value of Couples Therapy 40:14 Final Thoughts and Resources RESOURCES ⚡️ connect with Dr. Ali on Instagram @connectingwithali and learn more about her practice Connection Squared ⚡️ resource to find a neurodiverse couples therapist or coach ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the chaos surrounding the start of a new school year, especially for families of autistic kids. Sharing insights and practical advice from her extensive experience, she addresses anticipatory anxiety, the challenges of advocating within educational systems, and the importance of psychological safety for children. The episode also provides resources on using tools like AI for understanding your rights and articulating your thoughts and emphasizes the power of collaboration with educators and advocates. Tune in for strategies to ensure your child's smooth transition into the school year. 00:00 Introduction to the Chaos of Starting School 02:02 Navigating the Chaos of School Starting 02:49 Anticipatory Anxiety and Its Impact 04:56 Advocating for Your Child in the School System 16:50 The Importance of Psychological Safety at School 21:57 Final Thoughts and Resources 25:51 Conclusion and Ways to Connect RESOURCES ⚡️check out episodes 53, 57, 115, and 142 to learn more about educational rights and advocacy ⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 this week, i’m giving you a behind-the-scenes listen into a question from inside EVOLVE the membership — my neurodiversity-affirming space for parents of autistic children. in our private weekly q&a, a parent asked how to explain their child’s autism diagnosis to other adults in a way that’s both clear and affirming. in this episode, you’ll hear my full response, with approaches you can start using right away — from choosing identity-first language to framing your child’s strengths and support needs when talking with educators, family, and friends. you’ll also get a feel for what it’s like inside EVOLVE the membership, where members can bring their real-life questions instead of turning to Google, ChatGPT, or social media, and get thoughtful, personalized guidance. 00:00 introduction 00:25 welcome to this parenting space 01:34 why EVOLVE the membership? 03:59 behind the scenes of EVOLVE the membership 06:37 this week’s Q&A 11:01 neuroaffirming language explained 22:29 conclusion and membership invitation RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay