Reframing Neurodiversity - ADHD Support For Women

In this episode of Reframing Neurodiversity, Melissa explains how parents can begin shifting generational cycles through nervous system self-regulation and the powerful practice of repair. She offers insight into how even imperfect parenting moments can become healing opportunities, and how showing up differently—especially in moments of disconnection—can change everything.What you'll learn:What the "gift of repair" means and why it’s vital in parentingHow self-regulation helps interrupt inherited patternsWhy difficult behavior in kids often signals a deeper need for connectionHow validating a child’s experience helps prevent traumaA real-life example of healing a strained parent-teen relationshipTools and resources to support emotional regulationQuestions answered in this episode:What do I do when I repeat the parenting patterns I swore I wouldn’t?Can I still be a good parent if I mess up sometimes?Why is it important to apologize to children?How can I hold space for my child when I’m triggered myself?What does it look like to shift cycles in real life?Take the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode of Reframing Neurodiversity, Melissa sits down with Anat Peri—inner child expert, emotional mastery coach, and founder of Training Camp for the Soul—to explore the root of perfectionism, emotional overwhelm, and why so many women with ADHD struggle with being truly seen. Together, they unpack Melissa’s personal breakthrough during a recent retreat, and how Anat’s methods help expand our nervous system’s capacity to handle uncomfortable emotions and heal core wounds.What you’ll learn:Why many women with ADHD carry survival-based patterns from childhoodWhat it really means to reparent yourself and work with your nervous systemHow your nervous system reacts to fear in 0.2 seconds—and what to do about itThe power of inner child work and riding the 90-second emotional waveHow to build a greater window of tolerance and feel safe being your authentic selfPractical tools to stop self-sabotage and start embodying the life you wantWhy healing the adult supports healing the child—especially for momsConnect with Anat: Anat's Safety Meditation: Instagram: @anat.periTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode of Reframing Neurodiversity, we explore how perfectionism often develops as a coping strategy for women with ADHD—and how to begin shifting it through reparenting and nervous system regulation. Melissa vulnerably shares her own experiences and offers tools to reframe mistakes and failure as essential parts of healing and growth.What you’ll learn:Why perfectionism often stems from childhood conditioning and the need to feel safeHow to begin releasing the need to be perfect through reparenting and somatic practicesHow perfectionism and people-pleasing are linked, and how they affect women with ADHDWhy reframing failure is critical for healing and modeling healthy behavior for your kidsTools to regulate your nervous system and find safety in being imperfect and authenticTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode of Reframing Neurodiversity, we dive into my personal healing journey and explores how three core wounds—feeling unseen, misunderstood, and alone—are often at the root of masking and self-abandonment for women with ADHD. I share how facing the fear of being authentically seen helped me to begin to rewire my nervous system, expand my emotional capacity, and step more fully into my true self Hit play- It's time for you to do the same!What you’ll learn:How core wounds from childhood contribute to masking and people pleasingWhy your nervous system may perceive authenticity as a threatTools and strategies to begin healing ADHD-related self-abandonmentHow to gently stretch your comfort zone and build internal safetyThe connection between emotional regulation and showing up as your true selfTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this powerful episode of the Reframing Neurodiversity podcast, host Melissa Jackson explores why true ADHD support for kids must begin with the adults in their lives—especially mothers. Drawing from personal experience, professional work, and research, Melissa explains how regulating our own nervous systems, understanding our triggers, and reparenting ourselves lays the foundation for our children to thrive. When adults feel more empowered and equipped, kids benefit naturally—emotionally, behaviorally, and academically.What you'll learn:Why healing and ADHD support starts with parents, not just the childHow your own nervous system impacts your child's ability to regulateThe importance of self-awareness, reparenting, and co-regulationPractical strategies to move from dysregulation to grounded calmHow small, nervous-system-safe steps lead to big changes over timeWhy traditional approaches to "fixing the child" miss the mark—and how to shift that narrativeThis episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and begin your own healing journey so you can better support your neurodivergent child from a place of calm and authenticity.Take the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode of Reframing Neurodiversity, we're exploring the deep-rooted impact of good girl conditioning and perfectionism, particularly for women with ADHD. She shares personal insights and practical strategies for unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, setting boundaries, and creating a sense of safety in the nervous system. It's all about the importance of taking small, manageable steps toward authenticity and self-acceptance to foster true emotional and physical well-being. You got this!What you'll learn:How ADHD and good girl conditioning contribute to people-pleasing and self-abandonmentThe connection between ADHD, nervous system regulation, and emotional dysregulationPractical strategies for setting boundaries and taking up space in a way that feels safeWhy small, intentional steps are key to unmasking and embracing authenticityHow releasing perfectionism and people-pleasing can improve mental and physical healthThe role of nervous system regulation in healing ADHD-related burnout and overwhelmHow to shift your mindset to feel safer in your body while making life changesTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

Take the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In today’s episode, I sit down with Kate Moryoussef, a wellbeing and lifestyle coach specializing in late-diagnosed women with ADHD. We discuss why so many women have gone undiagnosed for years, how ADHD symptoms can become overwhelming as we navigate motherhood and hormonal shifts, and what steps we can take to support ourselves. Kate shares her expertise on emotional regulation, the role of hormones in ADHD, and holistic strategies like EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) that help women move from overwhelm to empowerment.What you’ll learn:Why many women are diagnosed with ADHD later in lifeHow undiagnosed ADHD can contribute to anxiety, burnout, and self-doubtThe role of hormones in ADHD and how they impact mood and cognitionHow emotional regulation and nervous system work can improve ADHD symptomsThe benefits of EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) for managing overwhelm and stressPractical self-care strategies to prevent burnout and create balanceHow breaking generational cycles of dysregulation benefits both moms and their childrenConnect With Kate:Website: www.adhdwomenswellbeing.co.ukTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In today’s episode, we explore the deep connection between high sensitivity, trauma, and ADHD symptoms. I discuss how early attachment experiences shape our nervous system responses and how trauma—especially for highly sensitive individuals—can impact attention, emotional regulation, and self-perception. I also share insights from Dr. Gabor Maté’s work and my personal journey with ADHD, motherhood, and healing. This conversation may be triggering, but leaning into discomfort is often where the most profound growth happens. If you’ve ever wondered how trauma and ADHD intersect, this episode is for you!What you'll learn:How early attachment and nervous system regulation influence ADHD symptomsThe role of high sensitivity in experiencing and processing traumaWhy trauma isn’t just about major events but also chronic, subtle experiencesHow dissociation and people-pleasing develop as survival mechanismsThe connection between trauma, ADHD, and emotional dysregulationSteps to begin healing by setting boundaries and reconnecting with yourselfThe importance of nervous system regulation in breaking generational patternsTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the root of self-abandonment, masking, and people-pleasing—and how these survival mechanisms not only disconnect us from our true selves but can also manifest as emotional and physical illness. Building on last week’s discussion about the link between people-pleasing and autoimmune conditions, we explore how to create safety within ourselves to show up authentically and heal. I share practical steps to start setting boundaries, recognizing your true needs, and shifting your nervous system into a place of regulation and self-trust.What you'll learn:How masking and people-pleasing lead to emotional and physical sufferingWhy boundaries are an act of self-love and a key step in healingHow to create safety in your nervous system to be your authentic selfThe impact of self-abandonment on relationships and how to rebuild from withinHow healing yourself helps you model authenticity for your childrenTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode, I explore the powerful connection between people-pleasing, self-abandonment, and autoimmune disease. Inspired by Dr. Gabor Maté’s insights, I dive into why 80% of autoimmune conditions occur in women and how the societal conditioning to be "good girls" can take a serious toll on our physical health. I share my personal journey of developing and healing multiple autoimmune conditions—without medication—by addressing the emotional wounds and nervous system dysregulation that kept me stuck. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve lost yourself to meet the expectations of others, this episode will help you understand how returning to your true, authentic self can be the key to healing both emotionally and physically.What you’ll learn:The connection between people-pleasing, self-abandonment, and autoimmune diseaseWhy women are disproportionately affected by autoimmune conditionsHow suppressed emotions, especially anger, contribute to chronic illnessWhy nervous system regulation is a crucial piece of healingThe role of authenticity in reversing autoimmune symptomsSmall, tangible steps to start reconnecting with your true self and healing your bodyTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode of Reframing Neurodiversity, I chat withMegan Barnett, an Executive Function coach, to dive into the holistic ways we can support neurodivergent children and their families. We discuss the importance of addressing ADHD, anxiety, and other challenges from a strengths-based and compassionate lens, rather than focusing solely on behaviors. You'll hear us explore how nervous system regulation, emotional connection, and rethinking traditional systems play a pivotal role in helping neurodivergent kids—and their parents—thrive!What you’ll learn:How emotional regulation and nervous system awareness are key to supporting neurodivergent childrenWhy addressing root causes, like trauma and chronic stress, can transform executive function strategiesThe challenges of navigating traditional school systems for neurodivergent kidsHow parents’ self-regulation and support can positively impact their child’s successThe benefits of a holistic approach that combines neuroscience, emotional connection, and family collaborationTake the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Schedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

In this episode, I reflect on the energy of the new year and how it can often feel like a time of pressure to change quickly, especially for those of us who are neurodivergent. Let's talk about moving away from rigid resolutions and embracing a gentler, more intentional approach to creating the life we want. Together, we explore the core wounds many neurodivergent people carry—like feeling unseen or misunderstood—and how these can lead to patterns like people-pleasing and perfectionism.You'll learn: Why traditional New Year’s resolutions may not align with neurodivergent minds and how to set more intentional goalsThe core wounds many neurodivergent people carry, such as feeling unseen, misunderstood, or alone, and how they impact our livesHow survival mechanisms like people-pleasing and perfectionism develop and keep us from living authenticallyThe importance of befriending your nervous system to break free from old patterns and feel safe being your true selfPractical steps to shift self-limiting beliefs and create more aligned, meaningful connections in your lifeWhy showing compassion and curiosity toward yourself is key to embracing your unique giftsSchedule a complimentary consultation call with me!Take the FREE quiz: What Self-Regulation Technique do you need right now?Join the community: https://neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/aboutConnect with Melissa:Website: https://www.theneurodiversityadvocate.com/Instagram: @neurodiversity_advocate

Watch or Read this Episode Here.I'm so excited to have my friend, Alissa Boyer, on today- who is a mentor and coach for highly sensitive people.Alissa is a personal friend who's helped me on my journey as a highly sensitive, ADHD mom, and I just can't wait to dive into:* Finding your self-worth in your sensitivity* And helping you get to the root of living your best life.High sensitivity is a common characteristic of ADHD and neurodivergence. While that neurowiring can be a challenge, I feel like it's so easy for us to fall into that victim mentality around life is hard, things are hard, things are harder for me.And I feel that we are so aligned in how we empower people to see this high sensitivity as a gift. That it's actually a strength and an advantage.P.S. Craving a safe space to reparent yourself, self-regulate and cycle break with other ADHD moms who get it? Check out my community here on Substack.Connect with AlissaThe Sensitive and Soulful ShowLearn more about her coachingFollow her on InstagramThis is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/subscribe

Read this article hereHi guys.I have been working on something for you that I think you're really going to love.A Quiz to Help you Find the Self-Regulation Technique YOU need right nowIt's practices like these, that I'm still bumping into on the daily.The difference just is I now have the tools to meet myself there. And to bring myself out of it.This is what I want to share with you guys, because it's so empowering.Whether it's:* Trying to move through procrastination* or perfectionism* or overwhelm* or if it's trying to show up differently and not be in that state of fight when your kid has big feelings and it dysregulates youYou need space to show up for yourself so you can show up for them and co-regulate together in a way you feel good about.It really is the foundation for all the things you guys.So I'm very excited about this quiz.It's literally three questions. It will take you all of a minute to answer.* And it will tell you what state of your nervous system you're predominantly in.* And a specific self-regulation strategy that would support you best in your current state.* So that you can bring yourself back to feeling safe and grounded in your body.And it's something you can take multiple times because our nervous system goes in and out of these states of: fight, flight, freeze and fawn…. multiple times a day.Because when we come back to the mother as the root and can heal her and her experience and her relationship with her nervous system…. We then automatically heal the kid.And we get to hold space for our children in these new ways of compassion and curiosity and understanding, and co-regulation that literally changes people's lives.And so doing this for ourselves and then doing this with our children alongside us, is truly cycle shifting at its finest.And that's why I just think this work is so incredibly powerful.And it's really foundational to many other strategies we'll dive into later in the Reframing Neurodiversity course, which is for ADHD, moms who are looking to show up for themselves so they can show up for their kids in new ways.But to get started now…this quiz and these tools available to teach, not only yourself, but your kids, is such an easy first step. And just the beginning to shift the cycles within our families that have been passed down unconsciously, unintentionally, generationally. So if you're looking for an opportunity to shift things this quizzes for you.This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit neurodiversityadvocate.substack.com/subscribe