Totally Over The Spectrum

Functional autistic burnout isn’t laziness. It isn’t drama. It’s a nervous system running on empty.You might still be showing up at work, parenting, or answering emails. On the outside it looks like you’re fine. On the inside, everything feels heavier, your skills start slipping, and resting doesn’t recharge you.In this episode, we talk about what burnout actually looks like for autistic people, why “functional” doesn’t mean mild, and how years of masking, adapting, and pushing past limits can quietly erode your energy and abilities. We explore the signs, the misunderstandings from the outside world, and what support really looks like.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongrouphttps://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Is it okay to let your kid “f*ck around and find out”? For autistic kids, it’s complicated.Natural consequences are supposed to teach responsibility, reduce power struggles, and help kids learn from real life. But in practice, it can get messy. Some kids don’t connect behaviour with outcome, some consequences are too harsh or confusing, and sometimes what’s framed as a lesson just ends up being distress.We talk about what “letting them find out” really means, how autistic kids experience cause-and-effect differently, and why explanations and support can often teach more than leaving a child to learn on their own.We explore what works, what doesn’t, and how parents can find the right balance between independence and guidance without creating unnecessary stress for their child.

They say to never start a business with family or friends.So we did.In this episode, we get candid about building Totally Over the Spectrum.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongrouphttps://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

What if some of the most effective autism therapies don’t happen in a clinic?In this episode we explore the non-clinical therapies that can help autistic people with emotional regulation, communication, confidence, and routine.Topics include autism therapy, animal-assisted therapy, horseback riding therapy, art therapy, and supports for autistic children and autistic adults.What non-clinical therapies have helped you or your autistic child?We’d love to hear from you👇Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongrouphttps://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Life hurts, stress builds, and sometimes words are the best therapy. In this episode, we explore the benefits of swearing and why context and intent really matter.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials! https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroup https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Seasonal changes aren’t just about the weather. For many autistic people, shifts in light, temperature, and routine can seriously disrupt daily life. In this episode, we explore why and share strategies that can help.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongrouphttps://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Exercise isn’t always the fix everyone expects. For some autistic people, it can reduce anxiety and support focus, but it can also increase stress, sensory overwhelm, or fatigue. In this episode, we explore the surprising pros and cons of exercise and why what works for one person may not work for another.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Autistic special interests aren't just hobbies. They are intense, in-depth passions that have some amazing benefits and a few potential problems.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Play isn’t just fun, it’s how children develop skills. Autistic kids may play differently, but their curiosity, creativity, and learning are just as meaningful. In this episode, we explore why it's important to support play on their terms and why letting kids lead the way matters more than you might think.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Some days the world feels overwhelming and finding calm can feel impossible. A sensory diet can help autistic people navigate the chaos and tune into their own needs. In this episode, we explore how intentional sensory support can transform daily life and help create a sense of calm.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Token economies can be helpful tools, but they aren’t without risks. In this episode, we talk about how rewards are used with autistic kids, when they work, and when they can undermine motivation, trust, and autonomy.👉 Like and follow for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

For some caregivers, taking their autistic child anywhere is a huge challenge. But sometimes, you just have to go. In this episode, we explore why it’s so hard and share strategies to make trips easier.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/Getting a Shot: You Can Do It! FULL EPISODE! - Sid the Science Kid - The Jim Henson Company - YouTube

Autistic people are more likely to have chronic physical health conditions. With a life expectancy of 15-20 years less than the average population, it's important to talk about why and what needs to change. 👉 Like, follow, and subscribe for new episodes!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Autistic Barbie is here! Do you love it or hate it? Leave a comment.

Autistic people tend to learn and communicate explicitly, unlike neurotypical people who often use implied communication. This difference in communication can lead to some very difficult situations. As an autistic person, I do my best to puzzle out what a person is trying to say, when they aren't actually coming out and saying it. It's exhausting. Do you think it would be better if people just say (kindly) what they mean? Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Literal thinking isn't a flaw, it's a different processing style. For those of us who experience literal thinking, I hope that we can all truly appreciate the hilarity in the irony that neurotypical people believe autistic literal thinking is always, and only, completely literal. Would you agree? Leave us a comment.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Hyperfocus is a calming and healing state of mind. Being completely immersed in a task is often a reprive from the daily bombardment of sensory issues, anxiety and emotional dysregulation inherent to the autistic experience. So how could that possibly be a bad thing? In this episode we discuss the joy and the dangers of hyperfocus.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Anyone can perseverate, it isn't exclusive to autism, but it is a component of the autism diagnostic criteria. In this episode we talk about why autistic people perseverate and some strategies to help.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Neurodiversity affirming language is all about acknowledging and accepting the concept of neurodiversity. With most things, people tend to get carried away and take a concept too far. In this episode, we talk about whether or not we've gone from encouraging to demanding and if that is hurting the community in the long run.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

The infantilization of autistic individuals is painfully prevalent and it just needs to stop.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Holidays are a stressful time for most people, but for autistic individuals, they can be absolute torture. In this episode, we discuss why holidays are hard and what you can do to give everyone a reason to celebrate.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Lying is a learned behaviour and widely considered to be part of the social norm as being polite and as a means to uphold social harmony. Lying can be difficult for many autistic individuals and often being honest also means being very trusting of others. This can leave autistic people very vulnerable to victimization. In this episode, we discuss strategies to help keep yourself or your loved one safe from deception.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

People pleasing is when you put the needs of others first, at the expense of your own needs. At it's extreme, it's referred to as fawning, and is a trauma response. In this episode, we talk about why people pleasing is so common for autistic individuals and how to set some healthy boundaries.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

A big thanks to "TheAnthillCommunity" for asking us to discuss this topic!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Autistic inertia is the unofficial term used to describe the difficulty an autistic individual can have when starting, stopping or changing activities. It range from being bothersome to debilitating and with little information on how to cope, it once again falls to the autistic community to talk about personal experience to help support each other.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Rejection sensitive dysphoria is characterized by strong emotional reactions to real or perceived rejection. Although this isn't an official diagnosis, it is commonly considered to be experienced by many neurodivergent people. In this episode, we talk about what it's like to have RSD and some strategies to help cope.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

There has been some confusion with the music, so this episode and the previous will not have music in the intro/outro. We will resolve the issue soon - so sorry! Resiliency is described as the ability to bounce back from a negative experience. While this is a necessary life skill for anyone to learn, we need to take a step back and look at the entire picture before we start throwing around negative experiences and demanding that autistic people just get over it.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Resiliency is described as the ability to bounce back from a negative experience. While this is a necessary life skill for anyone to learn, we need to take a step back and look at the entire picture before we start throwing around negative experiences and demanding that autistic people just get over it.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.caFollow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

There has been some confusion with the music, so this episode and the next will not have music in the intro/outro. We will resolve the issue soon - so sorry! Many parents of autistic kids struggle with the expectations surrounding Halloween. Whether it's going out trick-or-treating, or celebrating at home, in this episode we give some helpful tips on how to make this Halloween fun for everyone!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decision-Making-Role-Play-Social-Skills-Scenarios-Problem-Solving-Task-Cards-3856329https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/browse/free?search=role%20play%20scenario%20cardshttps://www.twinkl.ca/resource/t3-s-93-truth-vs-lie-quiz-cards

Perfectionism can be both an asset and a hinderance. In this episode we talk about how perfectionism can lead to some serious problems and what you can do to help reduce your anxiety and your expectations. Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Many autistic individuals are selective eaters and it can be very overwhelming trying to figure out how to navigate food intake challenges. In this episode we provide some evidence-based beginner strategies that really work!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/https://www.autismdietitian.com/blog/food-chaining-for-autismFood Charts:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vjQ5ZVtyzAU-AOdj4pROvl2NWqql3egtf_XFwmGHojg/copy?tab=t.0#heading=h.r0t9g6va764k

Everyone has a different idea of what it means to be your authentic self. It can be really easy for someone to say that you should unmask and just be true to who you are, but it's not as simple as that. Autistic individuals are often the most genuine people in a room, but get criticized for it. In this episode we discuss what it means to be authentic and also finding acceptance.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Being a caregiver is a stressful job and the physical, emotional and financial strain can be overwhelming some days. In this episode we talk about what it's like to have an autistic family and why it's not the tragedy some people think it is.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Autistic brains are wired differently, so it isn't much of a surprise that our love languages are also different. That doesn't mean that relationships are impossible, just that they require understanding, open communication and acceptance. Not sure how that isn't the basis for any solid relationship, but regardless, in this episode we talk all about autistic love languages. Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/⁠Orion Kelly - that autistic guyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ggzwu1MLpG4

PDA is a behaviour profile that can be very difficult to navigate, both for the autistic person and for their loved ones. In this episode we talk about the inner turmoil of the PDAer, how that may look on the outside and lots of strategies to help everyone.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

For many autistic people, including myself, routines are not just about preference, they're essential for daily function. Sometimes we put routines in place and we don't even notice we've done it, other times we might feel like we can't stick to a routine at all. This episode is all about how and why we need routines and when there isn't one, there's usually a system instead.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Excessive daily stress is a very real concern in the autistic population. While we can't completely eliminate stress from our lives, we can put strategies in place to mitigate the effects. This episode is all about putting strategies in place to minimize the amount of stress in our lives and how to decompress from the stressors we can't avoid.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

In the general population, only 4% of people suffer from PTSD. In the autistic community, that number is about 45%. We discuss why so many autistic individuals have PTSD or complex PTSD and why strategies that work for neurotypical people, need to be modified for autistic people.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Every single day can be stress inducing for autistic people. We already know that there are high rates of comorbidity between autism and mental health issues like anxiety and depression, but a recent study suggests that the impact of stressors might have a more profound impact on the brain than previously thought.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

The vast majority of autistic people are either unemployed or underemployed and that's partly because most workplace environments can be exhausting, dysregulating and unaccommodating for autistic needs. In this episode, we talk about some practical workplace workarounds as well as how and when to ask for accommodations. Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Interviews are stressful for everyone, but for autistic people, interviews can be absolute torture. In this episode, we talk about why interviews are so incredibly difficult for autistic individuals and we provide our top 7 hacks to help you be successful. Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

We all know that getting ready for a job is no longer as simple as putting out your resume and hoping for the best. In this episode, we talk about how to use your strengths, skills and interests to help you get a job that accommodates your needs. We also discuss the best ways to gain valuable job experience, as well as a list of free resources and organizations to help support you along the way. Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Anyone with an interest in autism will have heard the cry that it has become an epidemic. There are even people out there who think that autism is being glorified, with young autistic influencers romanticizing their fun 'quirks' and not recognizing autism as the debilitating disability that it is. In this episode we discuss the validity of these claims that having autism or pretending to have autism is the new trend.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

I've had lots of people ask me why anyone would need to bother to get an autism assessment done at the age of 50. "You've made it this far." "You're doing fine." "You're not really autistic autistic." There are lots of reasons people look for a diagnosis later in life. We discuss the most common ones and why my reason was completely different.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Parenting comes with a lot of challenges, and those challenges can take different forms depending on your child’s support needs. In this episode we talk about the differences and the similarities in parenting two autistic kids at different levels. From sensory sensitivities to social expectations, this episode is about the realities that don't always match the assumptions.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

In this episode, we explore the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals who are non-speaking, as well as the people who support them. We discuss why the term non-speaking is preferable to non-verbal and the difference between receptive and expressive language. Stay tuned to the end to hear some practical strategies that can help facilitate communication!Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

In this episode, we’re talking about how autistic communication often differs from neurotypical norms. We break down what communication actually means, how autistic people tend to express themselves, and why common social expectations can feel confusing or overwhelming.We also share some practical strategies to help bridge the communication gap.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

Grief is something we all face, but for autistic individuals the experience can be especially complex and often misunderstood. In this episode we talk openly about what grief looks like for autistic people, why it might show up differently, and some practical strategies to help support the autistic individual in your life.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

This episode tackles a question many parents quietly carry but rarely talk about. What happens to your autistic child if you’re not there to care for them anymore? We cover the basics of wills, naming an executor, and why it's critical to choose a guardian with care. We also discuss the emotional and practical side of planning for the future, from preparing potential caregivers to facing the uncomfortable truth that without a plan, the outcomes can be devastating.Check out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/

This episode is about my experience with the difficult, confusing and ridiculous process of applying for guardianship for my son when he turns 18. Legally, he becomes an independent adult. It doesn't matter that he has an intellectual disability and is non-speaking, I won’t legally be able to continue to make decisions for him without it. Yet not a single person has ever mentioned guardianship. Not during school meetings, not through the disability support application process, not anywhere. So I’m walking you through what I’ve learned the hard way: the process of applying for guardianship in Ontario, what the government doesn’t explain, and what I wish someone had told me months ago. - KCheck out our website!https://www.totallyoverthespectrum.ca/Follow us on socials!FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/totallyoverthespectrumautismdiscussiongroupINSTA: https://www.instagram.com/totallyoverthespectrum/