Springbrook's Converge Autism Radio

In this heartfelt episode, Jeremy Rochford reflects on his evolution as both an autistic adult and a parent. He shares candidly about past struggles with anger and communication, and how learning to shift from control to connection transformed his relationship with his son, Jonathan. Together, father and son bring humor, honesty, and perspective—closing with a lighthearted segment about their first comedy gig as a duo. It’s an authentic look at growth, forgiveness, and the joy that comes from embracing both the serious and the silly sides of parenting.ourneurofam.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

In this episode, Charity Rochford of NeuroFam hosts an open and heartfelt conversation with her daughter, Corinne, about life as a teenage girl on the spectrum. From navigating friendships and social pressures to embracing strengths in theater and creativity, Corinne shares the challenges and gifts of her journey with autism. Their dialogue highlights how autism can present differently in girls, the impact of masking and people-pleasing, and what it means to find authenticity in relationships. This episode offers validation, hope, and practical insight for families, educators, and professionals seeking to better understand autistic girls’ experiences.https://www.ourneurofam.com/www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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/ and  https://www.amazon.com/Relationship-Counselling-Autistic-Neurodiverse-Couples/dp/1805013025?utm_source=chatgpt.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 stories from neurodiverse and creative women. Learn more about her work at www.creativewellnessjourney.co.uk.www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 to NeuroFM for sharing this amazing story with us! Jwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 faced by autistic adults: hypersensitivity, shutdown during sex, fawning, energetic overload, and the grief of misdiagnosis. This is not your typical conversation about relationships—this is soul-deep, nuance-rich, and paradigm-shifting. If you've ever wondered why sex feels overwhelming or how to reclaim it on your own terms...If you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “too much”...If you're healing from betrayal and trying to rebuild trust inside your body...This episode is for you.Disclaimer: This episode contains candid discussions about sex, intimacy, and trauma—particularly in the context of neurodivergent experiences and sexual abuse recovery. Listener discretion is advised.About the Guest: Candice Christiansen (she/they) is the Founder and Clinical Director of Namasté Center for Healing based in Millcreek, Utah. A licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist-Supervisor (CSAT‑S), and psychedelic-assisted therapist (PAT), Candice specializes in working with autistic, ADHD, and trauma-impacted individuals and couples around betrayal recovery, sensory intimacy, and sacred sexuality. Diagnosed as autistic and ADHD at age 44, Candice brings both lived and clinical expertise to her work. She has over 25 years of experience, is trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, IFIO couples therapy, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. She’s the host of “Fabulously Candice: The Sexiest Podcast About Neurodivergence”, and a co-developer of one of the first neuro-affirmative autism screening tools. Candice is passionate about creating sacred, trauma-informed spaces where neurodivergent people can reclaim body autonomy, intimacy, and relational sovereignty.Website: https://www.namasteadvice.comFor a free copy of her ebook on Autism and Sensory Sex, visit the website and use the contact form to request it.www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 creating genuine inclusion in schools, marriages, and communities.​Stephanie C. Holmes graduated from Campbell University summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1994. She then completed her Master’s in Counseling  summa cum laude through Liberty University  and further pursued licensing in  the state of NC which was obtained and held from 2001 through 2009. She was an LPC in good standing. Upon moving to Georgia, with a desire to reach more people through tele- counseling, she obtained other certifications to pursue her calling of working with marriage and families with special needs nationally and internationally.  Her highest held degree is an Ed.D from Abilene Christian University, where she graduated with distinction upon completing her dissertation, “Creating an Inclusive Climate for Students on the Autism Spectrum.”​Certifications and Training​Certified Master Life Coach through International Board of Christian Counselors (IBCC)Certified Mental Health Coach through American Association of Christian Counselors.Board Certified Christian Counselor through International Board of Certified Counselors (AACC)Board Certified through Georgia Board of Examiners for Georgia Christian Counselors and TherapistsCertified Autism Specialist through IBCCESNeurodiverse Couples Certification through AANENeurodiversity Trained and Certified through Neurodiversity Training InternationalOrdained through IAOGholmesasr.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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/neuroduowww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 where honesty leads, stigma unravels, and real voices are heard. Tune in and experience why All Abilities, No Filter is changing the conversation. www.allabilitiesnofilter.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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: Courtney Lasky, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA 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 her insights on behavior analysis and its broader applications. She is passionate about leadership, staff training, and fostering psychological safety within clinical teams.Beyond her professional work, Courtney is a dedicated wife and mother of six, living in Irmo, South Carolina. Balancing a thriving career with a full and adventurous family life, she brings both expertise and heart to everything she does.www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 cell therapy may open new doors for older autistic individualsThe personal breakthroughs that changed Dr. Weiss’s career pathHow diet, gut health, and stem cells can support a holistic healing journeyWhether you're a parent, professional, or curious soul, this episode brings fresh insight and real hope.Dr. Eric Weiss is a board‑certified plastic surgeon and former U.S. Navy Commander who pivoted his career to regenerative medicine after his son Marston was diagnosed with autism and showed remarkable gains following umbilical cord stem cell therapy. Now serving as Medical Director of the Autism Program at Miami Stem Cell and founder of North Florida Stem Cells, he has treated over 400 children with data-driven protocols—reporting developmental improvements in about 65–70% of them—using MSCs, exosomes, MRI/EEG monitoring, and rigorous safety standards. He’s also co‑author of Educating Marston and a frequent podcast guest, sharing both personal experience and emerging science in autism care.https://northfloridastemcells.com/www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 Kappa Honor Society and received her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill under the Morehead Medical Scholarship. During her undergraduate and medical training, Dr. Greeter conducted extensive clinical research funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute on autism and on OCD. She completed both her adult studies and her child and adolescent subspecialty training at Northwestern University in Chicago, where she trained with nationally and internationally renowned psychiatrists. She is also certified in Internal Family Systems Therapy.https://stacygreetermd.com/www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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! About our Guests:Heidi S. Hackney MS, PCC, Co-FounderCertified Autism Coach, ICF Accredited Life Coach, Masters in Human DevelopmentRobin 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 ProgramAutism-Friendly CoursesUnlock Your Voiceover Artist WithinAt AVA, we are dedicated to empowering autistic adults in the world of voiceover. Our programs are designed to identify and nurture your unique voice talents, providing you with the skills and confidence to succeed.We celebrate the vivid imaginations, the unmatched attention to detail, and the deep emotional connections that enrich every voice.As you navigate the challenges that arise, AVA stands as a beacon of support and understanding.We embrace differences and turn obstacles into steppingstones. Every hurdle is a chance to grow, to be inspired, to succeed.www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 was.For years, I silently battled confusion, overwhelm, and social exhaustion. Masking my discomfort to "fit in" affected my mental and emotional health deeply.A Diagnosis Isn’t a Label—It's a Lens.It provided clarity, showing me that I'm not broken; I'm wired differently. Discovering neurodiversity helped me celebrate my differences and recognize my strengths—creativity, hyperfocus, analytical thinking—as true assets.This revelation inspired me to start The Aspie World, supporting thousands globally in navigating neurodivergent journeys. Our differences drive innovation, empathy, and inclusion, making humanity richer.Remember, your diagnosis is just the beginning of a beautiful, empowered chapter. You are capable, valuable, and not alone.Thank you for joining this journey.With gratitude,Daniel M. Jones Founder of The Aspie WorldDan can be found at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOKKRcJey93Ms-dL630UNIQDan's Book:https://www.amazon.com/Autism-Adults-author/dp/1837822336About when I discovered Dan on YThttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDwXqGjohGgDan defends the term Asperger'shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oB-cH9Os_J8www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 health and social connection.About our Guest:Kelly Mahler OTD, OTR/L, earned a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Misericordia University, Dallas, PA. She has been an occupational therapist for 20 years, serving school-aged children and adults. Kelly is the winner of multiple awards, including the 2020 American Occupational Therapy Association Emerging and Innovative Practice Award & a Mom’s Choice Gold Medal. She is an adjunct faculty member at Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, PA as well as at Misericordia University, Dallas, PA. Kelly is a co-principal investigator in several research projects pertaining to topics such as interoception, self-regulation, trauma & autism.www.kelly-mahler.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

Dr. Stephanie discusses ABA and Autism with Converge Autism Summit speaker Courtney Lasky, PHD candidate. About the speaker: Courtney Lasky, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA 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 her insights on behavior analysis and its broader applications. She is passionate about leadership, staff training, and fostering psychological safety within clinical teams.Beyond her professional work, Courtney is a dedicated wife and mother of six, living in Irmo, South Carolina. Balancing a thriving career with a full and adventurous family life, she brings both expertise and heart to everything she does.www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 why they created this show, how they balance vulnerability with humor, and their shared mission to help others feel less alone. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a reminder that imperfection holds power—and every brain carries a spark worth launching. 🌀 Learn more at sparklaunchpodcast.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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 autismHow Autism symptoms are expressed differently in male and femaleThe role of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in misdiagnosis of autismCommon overlaps and differential diagnosisDr. 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 Medicine and the Marcus Autism Center in Atlanta, GA, where she directed a large-scale clinical research program. In 2018, she opened her own company, Neurodevelopmental Assessment & Consulting Services, where she specializes in diagnostic assessment, as well as teaching and training for autism spectrum and related disorders. Dr. Saulnier has published over 50 articles, written two books, and she is an author on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition.Looking for Assessment in GA? https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/neurodevelopmental-assessment-consulting-svc-decatur-ga/409874www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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, therapy, education, and advocacy. The 2025 summit was held on March 4–5 in Greenville, South Carolina, featuring keynote speakers such as Dani Bowman and Dr. Robert Naseef.www.convergeautism.comwww.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

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.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com