Diagnostic Overshadowing and Neurodiversity with Brett Williams

In this episode of Living with FASD, host Patti Kasper is joined by Brett Williams from the Learning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan (LDAS). Together, they explore the complexities of non-apparent disabilities, late-in-life neurodivergent diagnoses, and the phenomenon of "diagnostic overshadowing"—where a single label can obscure an individual’s full spectrum of strengths and needs.From unpacking why "no pattern is the pattern" in FASD cognitive testing to rethinking accommodations in the workplace and classroom, Patti and Brett share a candid, compassionate, and humorous conversation on moving away from individual blame and toward true interdependence.📚 Special Book Announcement & TeaserMark your calendars for International FASD Awareness Day!Patti Kasper’s upcoming book, 4D Living with FASD: Shared Voices, Clearer Understanding, officially launches on September 9th.Grounded in qualitative research and lived experience, this book brings together real voices from the FASD community to shift paradigms, break down stigma, and build genuine understanding.📖 Available September 9th at books.by/yourfasdcoach, Amazon, oryour favorite local bookseller!💡 Key Takeaways & Discussion HighlightsDiagnostic Overshadowing: How focusing solely on a single diagnosis can blind us to an individual’s unique cognitive profile and strengths."No Pattern is the Pattern": Why traditional, uniform testing patterns don't always fit neurodevelopmental conditions like FASD, and how scattered test results should be interpreted.The High Cost of Masking: Understanding the cognitive and metabolic energy tax that neurodivergent individuals pay to perform and "showtime" in daily life.Shift to Interdependence: Challenging the hyper-focus on absolute self-sufficiency and embracing social connectedness and mutual support.Preventative Accommodations: How simple, zero-cost support—like the gift of extra processing time—benefits entire organizations, schools, and communities.🎙️ About Our GuestBrett Williams (he/him) is the Director of Program Service Delivery for the Learning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan (LDAS). He has professional experience providing mental health counseling and consultation across the education, health, community, and private sectors. Brett has personal experience receiving mental health services, and is grateful to have a wonderful wife, a dynamic daughter, and a multitude of imaginary friends.🔗 Resources & Links MentionedLearning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan (LDAS): ldas.org