Autism and Sensory Processing Disorder: Finding Balance in a Sensory World
As a neurodevelopmental disorder specialist, I often see children with Autism who also struggle with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). SPD happens when the brain has trouble processing sensory information, leading to overwhelming or underwhelming reactions to sights, sounds, textures, and other stimuli. When these two conditions overlap, they can make everyday life particularly challenging for children.
Autism and the Gut-Brain Connection: Unlocking New Avenues for Management
As an internationally recognized neurodevelopmental disorder specialist, I’ve had the privilege of working with children and families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Over the years, one area that has sparked growing interest in both scientific circles and among parents is the gut-brain connection—the relationship between the digestive system and the brain, and its potential influence on the symptoms of autism.
Hidden in Plain Sight: The Female Face of Autism
When it comes to autism, we often think of boys. The reality, however, is that autism doesn’t always look the same across genders—especially for girls. As a neurodevelopmental disorder specialist and Chartered Psychologist, I’ve seen first-hand how autism manifests differently in females, often going undiagnosed or being misunderstood for years. The signs of autism in girls can be subtle, camouflaged, and often overlooked, leaving many women to struggle in silence. But as research into autism grows, we’re beginning to uncover a more nuanced understanding of the female experience of autism.
Neurodivergence and Sleep Disorders in Children and Adolescents: Why Sleep is a Struggle and How to Improve It
As a Neurodevelopmental Disorder Specialist and Chartered Psychologist, I frequently encounter families struggling with sleep challenges in children and adolescents with neurodivergent conditions. Autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, and other neurodevelopmental variations often come hand in hand with sleep difficulties. These challenges are not only frustrating for the children and adolescents but also for their families, as sleep plays such a critical role in their emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being.