Neurodiversity, Birth Trauma & NICU: Untangling the Overlap with Jo & Lauren | S3E42
Have you found that ADHD or autism feels harder to manage since having a baby? Maybe you’re wondering if undiagnosed neurodivergence has been a factor all along, but birth trauma, NICU, and parenting have brought it to the surface. If so, you’re not alone. This is a conversation we have a lot, and in this episode, we’re diving into it with clinical psychologists who truly understand.
Dr. Jo Mueller and Dr. Lauren Breese are experts in neurodivergence, with over 15 years each working across clinical mental health, academic research, and specialist NHS services. Alongside Dr. Siobhan Higgins, they co-founded The Neurodiversity Practice, providing neuroaffirmative support to parents, families, workplaces, and professionals.
This conversation is a great starting point if you’re questioning your neurodivergence, struggling with overstimulation and masking, or trying to parent in a way that works for both you and your child.
In this episode, we cover:
- Why birth trauma or NICU often leads parents to question their neurodivergence
- How neurodivergence may show up in NICU and in life after
- How masking can impact assessment and what to do if you’re worried about misdiagnosis
- The reality of neurodiversity, beyond the “superpower” narrative
- Setting boundaries to reduce overwhelm and overstimulation as a parent
- Supporting neurodivergent partners and loved ones in a way that works for both of you
- Handling family and friends who don’t understand your parenting choices
If you’ve ever felt like the way you process the world doesn’t quite fit with what’s expected of you, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
Take what you need!
[00:48] Introducing Jo and Lauren from The Neurodiversity Practice
[07:16] Navigating neurodiversity questions after birth trauma or NICU
[15:17] Masking and camouflage and how to handle these during your assessment
[22:13] Thoughts around the neurodiversity “superpower” and toxic positivity
[30:40] Handling overwhelm and overstimulation as a parent
[36:54] Supporting your neurodivergent partner
[42:16] When others have opinions about your neurodivergent parenting style
[46:37] Connecting with Jo, Lauren and The Neurodiversity Practice
A huge thank you to Emma at Cover My Bubble for supporting our podcast - you can find out more about all that Cover My Bubble offer at www.covermybubble.co.uk
Connect with Miracle Moon:
Connect with our guests, Jo and Lauren:
The Neurodiversity Practice Website
Follow The Neurodiversity Practice on Instagram
Connect with The Neurodiversity Practice on LinkedIn
and Psychology website – Lauren’s private Autism and ADHD assessments
Follow and Psychology on Instagram
Dr Jo the Psychologist website – work with Jo to help you feel calmer and more confident in your parenting