Solving the Wrong Problem: When Recovery Models Ignore Neurodivergence

Patti Kasper hosts Jon Baer to explore the critical intersection of neurodivergence and substance use recovery. Jon shares his journey from early childhood trauma and substance use to his later-in-life diagnosis of AuDHD, emphasizing the need for recovery models that are neurodiversity-aware. They discuss why traditional recovery systems often fail neurodivergent individuals and how a paradigm shift toward self-discovery and nervous system regulation is necessary for true healing.Jon Baer is an advocate and mentor with over 13 years of personal experience in long-term recovery. As Director of Admissions and Community Outreach at Insight Recovery Mental Health, he works closely with individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and neurodivergence—recognizing how deeply these experiences can intersect and influence one another. Jon brings authenticity and compassion rooted in his own lived experience, and a deep belief that healing looks different for everyone—especially for those whose brains are wired differently. His work is driven by a passion for making sure neurodivergent individuals feel seen, understood, and supported on their path toward recovery and mental wellness.Standard Recovery Risks: Traditional recovery programs often demand neurotypical compliance, which can lead to burnout for neurodivergent individuals.Internal Focus: True healing requires addressing internal wiring and nervous system regulation rather than relying on external strategies.Reframing Addiction: Jon reframed his substance use struggles after his AuDHD diagnosis, identifying his addiction as a search for relief.The FASD Epidemic: FASD is a hidden epidemic affecting roughly 1 in 12 North Americans, with significant overlap with other neurodivergent diagnoses like ASD.Systemic Trauma: Living in a world designed for neurotypicals causes systemic trauma, often manifesting as depression and anxiety.Inclusive Recovery: Recovery models must become inclusive of all neurotypes and prioritize self-discovery.Insight Recovery: Jon serves as the Director of Community Outreach at Insight Recovery Treatment Center, which offers tailored treatment tracks for neurodivergent individuals.If you would like to reach Patti, you can email her at [email protected]. Visit her website at www.patriciakasper.com to learn more about her coaching and professional development training services, or visit https://calendly.com/kaspertrainingandcoaching/consultation to schedule a complimentary call.If you would like to pick up a copy of Patti’s book, Sip by Sip: Candid Conversations with Adults Living with FASD, visit www.books.by/yourfasdcoach or Amazon. (Both print on demand, but due to lower overhead costs, books.by is able to pay its authors a few more dollars in royalties.)Please remember to like, subscribe & share, so that even more people can learn about FASD.