Self-Acceptance and Belonging With Dyslexia

What changes when we stop trying to fit in and start allowing ourselves to be who we really are?  In this episode of The Choice Space Podcast, Dr Lee David talks with Liz Evans, The Untypical OT  – occupational therapist, parent and advocate for neurodivergent families. They explore how to live authentically with dyslexia, the emotional impact of late diagnosis and the sense of relief that comes from finally understanding yourself.They discuss how masking, perfectionism and shame can take hold when differences go unrecognised  – and how self-acceptance, humour and simple strategies can restore balance. Liz shares her personal journey from struggle to strength, and the lessons she’s learned about parenting, belonging and building a life that works with, not against, the way her brain works.A compassionate, grounded conversation for anyone learning to drop the mask and embrace difference  – in themselves or someone they love.What we coverWhy late diagnosis brings relief, anger and unexpected griefThe hidden toll of masking on mental healthThe shift to self-understanding and acceptancePractical tools to make everyday life easierHumour and flexibility in family lifeLetting go of perfection and owning strengthsBelonging in neurodivergent communitiesKey moments00:00 Emotional rollercoaster of late diagnosis 02:40 What occupational therapy really means 06:33 Why joy and fun are essential occupations 10:12 Masking and shame 19:37 The Choice Pause –  connection and acceptance 23:08 How honesty builds trust and connection 26:48 Anger and grief that come with understanding 32:27 Belonging, community and self-acceptance 38:29 Everyday tools to lighten the cognitive load 40:23 Two simple choices to carry forwardAbout the hostDr Lee David is a GP, CBT therapist and author specialising in mental health and wellbeing.  She is the founder of 10 Minute CBT and a podcast host sharing evidence-based tools for self-doubt, stress and everyday decision-making. Lee has written books on CBT, mindfulness and teen wellbeing, and speaks regularly at conferences and in the media. Away from work she enjoys running, hiking, singing in a choir and spending time outdoors with her family. You can find Lee on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.  You can find more about her books and wellbeing courses here. About the guestLiz is a dyslexic solo parent in a neurodiverse family and an occupational therapist. She helps neurodivergent parents protect against burnout through a neuroaffirming, trauma and sensory-responsive lens, supporting a shift from survival and overwhelm to greater calm and capacity. You can find Liz on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. She’s also the host of The Untypical Parent Podcast, for neurodivergent families finding their own way of doing things differently.ReferencesJ Child Psychol Psych 2025;66:1065 Aust J Psychol 2024;76:2399114 About the hostDr Lee David is a GP, CBT therapist and author specialising in mental health and wellbeing. Lee has written many books on CBT, mindfulness and teen wellbeing, and speaks regularly at conferences and in the media. Away from work she enjoys running, hiking, singing in a choir and spending time outdoors with her family. You can find Lee through her website and on Instagram, TikTok (@dr.lee.david), Facebook and LinkedIn.  You can find more about her books, wellbeing courses and therapy here:  https://linktr.ee/dr.lee.david