276: Nature's Path for Neurodivergent Boys: Beyond the Autism Diagnosis

In this episode, Will is joined by Chris Blankenship, founder of Autism Learning Lab and former wilderness therapy psychotherapist. Chris shares how years in the field led him to recognize a growing number of young men arriving in treatment with undiagnosed autism—often masked by anxiety, depression, or substance use. He explains how his work at the Autism Learning Lab now supports adolescents and young adults through individualized coaching, family retreats, and outdoor-based interventions. Chris discusses how the outdoors offers a powerful setting for building awareness, confidence, and emotional regulation, especially for neurodivergent youth. He shares compelling stories, including how nature-based experiences helped one young man shift from isolation and addiction to greater self-understanding. This episode offers practical insights for parents who suspect their son may be on the autism spectrum and are looking for holistic, nature-informed ways to support him. The Autism Learning Lab website is: https://www.autismlearninglab.com/ Will White's men's coaching and retreats website is wmai.org.