Beyond Defiance: What Behavior Is Really Communicating with Heather Traeden

Beyond Defiance: What Behavior Is Really Communicating with Heather Traeden

When a child refuses, argues, melts down, or pushes back, what are they really trying to communicate? In episode 76 of Autism in the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with Board Certified Behavior Analyst Heather Traeden of Balance & Behavior to discuss what challenging behaviors can teach us about a child's needs, emotions, and sense of safety. Drawing from over 25 years of experience working with children and families, Heather shares practical strategies for moving beyond power struggles and into collaboration. Together they explore topics including defiance, emotional regulation, school refusal, elopement, communication strategies, transitions, and how parents can create environments where children feel safe enough to succeed. Heather also offers encouraging reminders that parents are often doing more right than they realize—and that small changes can make a big difference. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, this conversation provides actionable tools and a compassionate perspective on supporting neurodivergent children and families.

The Four C’s: Building Stronger Relationships with Neurodivergent Kids with Dr. Park

What if the most powerful tool for helping neurodivergent children isn't a therapy technique, behavior plan, or intervention strategy? According to Dr. Park, it's the relationship. In episode 75 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Dr. Park shares the "Four C's"—a simple but powerful framework for building trust, connection, and lasting growth with neurodivergent children. Drawing from years of clinical experience and personal parenting lessons, he explains why our approach often matters more than our solutions. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or caregiver, these practical insights can help strengthen your relationships and create an environment where neurodivergent individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered.

Autism in Girls: Why So Many Are Missed and How to Get the Right Diagnosis with Dr. Christina Feldman

Autism in girls often looks different than the traditional picture many parents and professionals expect. As a result, countless girls go undiagnosed—or are misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions before receiving answers that truly fit. In episode 74 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with licensed psychologist Dr. Christina Feldman, founder of Neurodiverse Psychological Services, to explore why autism is so frequently missed in girls and what families can do to seek accurate evaluations and support. Dr. Feldman also highlights an important shift in autism care: moving away from trying to change autistic individuals and instead helping them understand themselves, build on their strengths, and find environments where they can thrive. This conversation is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, educators, clinicians, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of autism in girls.

Routines, Regulation & Raising Neurodivergent Kids with Brynn Bell

What does it actually look like to create a home environment that supports a neurodivergent child—not just in theory, but in the realities of everyday life? In episode 73 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with licensed clinical social worker and behavior specialist Brynn Bell to explore how families can create more structure, predictability, emotional safety, and connection at home. Brynn shares her unique family-systems approach to working with neurodivergent children and their families, explaining why routines, explicit communication, nervous system regulation, and collaborative problem-solving can dramatically reduce stress and improve relationships for everyone in the home. Brynn also offers powerful reminders for parents navigating neurodivergence at home: “Children do well when they understand how to do well.” A thoughtful and deeply practical conversation for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone wanting to better understand the needs of neurodivergent children and families.

The Pediatrician’s Role in Autism: Early Signs, Advocacy & Support with Dr. Kristen Cook

What does autism look like in its earliest stages—and what role do pediatricians play in helping families navigate the diagnostic journey? In this episode of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with board-certified pediatrician Dr. Kristen Cook, founder of MomDocTalk, to discuss the realities of autism screening, diagnosis, and early intervention from a pediatrician’s perspective. Dr. Cook explains how developmental milestones and early warning signs are evaluated during routine well-child visits, why autism diagnoses can sometimes take time, and how pediatricians collaborate with specialists to support children and families throughout the process. Dr. Cook also addresses the overwhelming amount of misinformation families face today and shares an encouraging reminder for parents navigating uncertainty: “You’re doing better than you think.” A compassionate, informative episode for parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting neurodivergent children.