Strategies to Support for All with Pathological Demand Avoidance with Diane Gould

Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 79 In this episode of Stress-Free IEP ®, Frances Shefter speaks with Diane Gould, Founder & Executive Director of PDA North America. PDA North America provides support and resources for individuals, families, and professionals living with Pathological Demand Avoidance. Episode Summary: Introduction Host Frances Shefter welcomes Diane Gould, a licensed clinical social worker and Executive Director of PDA North America (https://pdanorthamerica.org). Diane specializes in supporting autistic individuals, particularly those with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), which she prefers to frame as Persistent Drive for Autonomy. Diane discusses her work with families, her annual PDA-focused conference, and her book Navigating PDA in America. This episode delves into understanding PDA, addressing school challenges, and providing strategies to support PDA individuals. Resources and Final Thoughts Diane shares information about PDA North America’s (https://pdanorthamerica.org) resources, including a trusted provider directory and their annual PDA conference. The conference provides a space for families and professionals to connect, learn, and share experiences. Diane closes by encouraging parents to document what works and doesn’t work for their child, creating a guide for educators and caregivers. She reminds listeners that understanding and trust are the foundation for helping PDA children thrive. Learn more about Diane Gould: * Connect with Diane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-gould-a607b5251 * Follow PDA North America on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pda-north-america * Visit PDA North America’s website: https://pdanorthamerica.org/team * Follow PDA North America on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pdanorthamerica * Consider attending The 6th Annual PDA North America Conference happening on March 5, 6, & 7th, 2025. Early bird prices are available until Dec 31, 2024: https://pdanorthamerica.org/conference * Learn about other upcoming events on all topics related to supporting PDA people: https://pdanorthamerica.org/events * Check out Diane’s book, “Navigating PDA in America:” https://tinyurl.com/5fmz72zb *********************************** Stress-Free IEP®: Frances Shefter is an Education Attorney and Advocate who is committed to helping her clients have a Stress-Free IEP® experience. In each podcast, Frances interviews inspiring people to share information, educate you, empower you and help you get the knowledge you need. Watch more episodes of Stress-Free IEP®: * On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog * On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCff0foIeCETrWbtsQSDwckQ Connect and learn more from your host, Frances Shefter: * https://shefterlaw.com/#contact-me * https://shefterlaw.com * https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesshefter * https://www.facebook.com/ShefterLawPA * https://twitter.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.instagram.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.tiktok.com/@shefterlawpa