Not Quite Typical: AuDHD & Neurodivergent Conversations28 Jul

S02E07:Navigating Adult Neurodivergence: PDA, Demands & Burnout with Dr Jay Watts

Why is the term "Pathological Demand Avoidance" so heavily contested, and what does PDA actually look like in adulthood?

In this episode, Amber is joined by Dr Jay Watts , a neurodivergent Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Psychotherapist and disability activist for an eye-opening conversation about PDA from an adult and neurodivergent perspective. Together, they break down the history of the label, the shift toward reclaiming PDA as a Persistent or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, and how demand avoidance intersects with Damian Milton’s Double Empathy Problem.

Whether you’re late-diagnosed, questioning if you experience PDA, or wanting to understand how environmental demands impact nervous systems, this conversation offers validation, history, and deep insight.

In this episode, we cover:

The history of PDA and why the "pathological" label is problematic.
Reclaiming PDA as a Persistent/Pervasive Drive for Autonomy.
The transition of PDA from childhood into adult life, work, and relationships.
How Damian Milton's Double Empathy Problem explains the clash between neurotypes.
Overcoming shame cycles around executive dysfunction, inertia, and demands.

Guest Info:

Dr Jay Watts: jaywatts.co.uk
X/Twitter: https://x.com/Shrink_at_Large
Writings: https://city.academia.edu/DrJayWatts

Your support means the world to me and the show, so if you like what you hear please hit 'follow' and leave a 5-star review. Share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs to hear it!

📩 hello@notquitetypical.com

Content Warning & Disclaimer:Content Warning: This episode contains brief discussions of mental distress, suicidal ideation, burnout, and trauma.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and is based on personal experiences and guest expertise. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or clinical support.

Denne episoden er hentet fra en åpen RSS-feed og er ikke publisert av Podme. Den kan derfor inneholde annonser.

Episoder(18)

S02E06:Can the film industry be accessible for neurodivergent talent?With Filmmaker Sarah Leigh

If you’ve ever felt like the spaces you want to work or exist in weren't built with your brain or body in mind, this episode is a must-listen. Joining the podcast is the incredible sarah leigh, an awa...

14 Jul 57min

S02E05:Hypnotherapy for AuDHD: Bypassing the Mask & Dissolving Burnout with Hypnotherapist Josephine Knechtli

If you’ve completed the "mainstream levels" of mental health care,from talk therapy to psychiatric labels,and you’re still left wondering why you are struggling, this episode is the "how-to" guide you...

7 Jul 1h 12min

S02E04:AuDHD Burnout, Task Paralysis, & Ditching Corporate for a Portfolio Career with Therapist Simone Westcott-Villiers

Ever been handed a clinical worksheet by a therapist and felt an instant wave of ADHD shame and avoidance? You are not alone. In this episode, we are completely reframing how we look at mental health,...

30 Jun 57min

S02E03:ADHD in the Workplace: Navigating Corporate Rigidity, Creative Burnout, & Access to Work with ADHD Coach Charlotte Forbes ADHD Club UK

In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant Charlotte Forbes, founder of ADHD Club UK, ADHD coach, and former social media manager.Charlotte candidly shares her own journey of being diagnosed at 32...

23 Jun 51min

S02E02:Late-Diagnosed AuDHD Friendships, Adult Meltdowns & Titration Purgatory with Jon & Erin

In this episode, I am completely fangirling as I sit down with two incredible creators from the neurodivergent community: Jon and Erin.Erin is the host of the AuDHD and Me podcast, and Jon is the host...

16 Jun 1h 1min

S02E01:Comedy, Creativity & Late Diagnosis: Neurodivergent Moments with Joe Wells & Abigoliah Schamaun

To kick off Season 2, Amber sits down with comedians Joe Wells and Abigoliah Schamaun, co-hosts of the hit podcast Neurodivergent Moments.With their highly anticipated book Neurodivergent Moments rele...

9 Jun 1h 3min

S1E10:Neurodivergent Travel, Late Diagnosis & Finding Your People

Season 2 is coming soon. Follow on Instagram so you don’t miss the announcement!In the Season 1 finale of Not Quite Typical, Amber is joined by her long-time friend and podcast producer, Jess. They ge...

19 Mai 1h 9min