Autism Central Podcast

By Autism Central
  • 5.0 (10)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Real stories and honest conversations, we bring together autistic people and the people who love, support, and care for autistic people of all ages and backgrounds to explore every aspect of life. Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people in England, the programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. Through education, coaching, and connection, we offer resources, webinars, one-to-one peer support, and community events that centre lived experience and build real understanding www.autismcentral.org.uk

  1. The power of peer support 

    2 DAYS AGO

    The power of peer support 

    In this final episode of Season Four of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by Emma Kluibenschadl, a passionate advocate, experienced professional and National Group Learning Facilitator Associate with Anna Freud who shares how Autism Central is creating a revolutionary space where families find community, understanding and practical support to help them thrive.  Emma shares a behind the scenes look at what Autism Central offers autistic people, parents, carers and families - from live educational webinars and reflective sessions to one-to-one peer support designed to help people feel less alone. Together, Catherine and Emma explore the emotional realities of parenting and supporting neurodivergent children and young people, including the isolation many families experience, the grief and uncertainty that can come with diagnosis journeys, and the pressure parents often feel to ‘get it right’ in systems that are not built for autistic people. The conversation focuses on the importance of neuroaffirming support, self-care through a neurodivergent lens and creating safe spaces where parents feel heard without judgement - as well as how small shifts in understanding can transform family life. Emma also talks about her son Stefan - who she sadly lost to suicide in March 2022 - and the legacy she and her husband Tristan continue through their work supporting neurodivergent young people and families.  Together, they discuss the power of lived experience, compassionate connection and peer support and why being seen, heard and understood can make such a profound difference to autistic people and the people who love and support them. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our ⁠FREE newsletter⁠ Explore our ⁠FREE support⁠ - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Catherine  ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram ⁠ Books: ⁠Rediscovered⁠ and ⁠Still Living⁠

    52 min
  2. Demystifying adult autism assessments with psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox

    24 APR

    Demystifying adult autism assessments with psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox

    In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Dr Alison Lennox, a Consultant Neurodevelopmental Psychiatrist to demystify the adult autism assessment process and explore what a good assessment should really offer. Together they unpack common misconceptions about diagnosis along with the fear and uncertainty many people carry into the process. As one of only a few UK psychiatrists working exclusively in adult autism, Alison shares her perspective on what a comprehensive assessment can involve. She reflects on how assessments can be shaped around the individual, why there is no single “gold standard” pathway and how safety, trust and curiosity are central to helping people feel seen and understood. The conversation also explores the realities of masking, invalidation and the emotional weight of seeking an assessment after years of misunderstanding or self-doubt. Catherine and Alison discuss the impact of family dynamics, the challenges of asking others to contribute to the process and the importance of creating space for people to bring their own notes and evidence in whatever form feels right to them. This episode is an honest and compassionate discussion about what an autism assessment can mean, not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of making sense of yourself with greater clarity and self-compassion. Alison also reflects on what happens after assessment, the limits of post-diagnostic support, the need for thoughtful, individualised reports and why understanding autism alongside trauma and mental health requires care, nuance and humanity. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Dr Alison Lennox https://www.dralisonlennox.com/ Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

    50 min
  3. Hyperfocused on health with Dr Helen Lawal

    10 APR

    Hyperfocused on health with Dr Helen Lawal

    In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Dr Helen Lawal to explore the realities of work, identity and wellbeing as a neurodivergent woman navigating a demanding career. Together they reflect on Helen’s journey through medicine, from her early inspiration to become a doctor to the barriers she faced before understanding her ADHD and autism, and how that self-knowledge transformed the way she works and lives. Late-discovered ADHD and autistic, she shares how years of masking, pushing through and internalising struggle led to burnout, low self-esteem and physical and mental health challenges, and how diagnosis helped her reframe those experiences with compassion rather than shame. The conversation explores the practical realities of working life, including sensory overwhelm, information processing, travel, long shifts, memory demands and the importance of reasonable adjustments. Catherine and Helen also discuss the power of understanding strengths, recognising what support is needed and letting go of career expectations that no longer fit.  At the heart of this episode is a hopeful and honest discussion about what helps when life feels overwhelming. Helen shares the practices that support her most, from movement and breath to time in nature, rest and nourishing food, and reflects on how parents and carers can begin to think ahead about supporting young neurodivergent people into adulthood, education and work. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Dr Helen  www.drhelenlawal.com Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Books - Rediscovered and Still Living

    49 min
  4. When the wheels fall off: Menopause and autism / ADHD

    27 MAR

    When the wheels fall off: Menopause and autism / ADHD

    In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Sophie Cartledge to explore the powerful intersection of perimenopause and late-discovered autism and ADHD. Together they discuss why many autistic and ADHD women describe perimenopause as the point where ‘the wheels fell off’ and how hormonal shifts can amplify sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges and burnout. Late-discovered autistic and ADHD at 44, Sophie speaks openly about how this collision is one of the most misunderstood and unsupported phases of a woman’s life, often leading to burnout, misdiagnosis and workplace exclusion. They reflect on the profound identity shift that can happen when decades of masking are no longer sustainable and how perimenopause can act as a catalyst for unmasking, self-advocacy and redefining what safety and wellbeing look like. The conversation also highlights gaps in healthcare and workplace understanding, the importance of tracking symptoms and the role of peer support in reducing isolation. At the heart of this episode is a compassionate discussion about rebuilding self-trust, reframing needs as preferences and finding practical ways to navigate this often misunderstood stage of life. Sophie shares the mindset shifts and small accommodations that have helped her move towards a more sustainable, authentic way of living. This episode is for you if: - You’re navigating perimenopause/menopause and noticing changes in your sensory sensitivities, emotions and/or capacity. - You’re late-discovered autistic or ADHD and experiencing unmasking or a shift in identity. - You’re feeling dismissed, misunderstood or unsure how to advocate for yourself in healthcare or work. - You’re looking for validation, practical strategies and reassurance that you’re not alone in this experience. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Sophie www.hormonesontheblink.com Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book

    47 min
  5. When Dad is neurodivergent

    13 MAR

    When Dad is neurodivergent

    In this episode, Mike and Phil, both mental health nurses and late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD, join Catherine Asta to explore their experiences of fatherhood. They speak about feeling unseen in schools and workplaces, confronting internalised rejection and navigating the expectations placed on fathers about how they ‘should’ show up. Through their own personal reflections, they share the journey of self-discovery that followed their diagnoses alongside their children, and the importance of finding community along the way. At the heart of this conversation is the creation of NADS (Neuroaffirming Dads and Dudes) a local peer support space created by Mike designed specifically for neurodivergent fathers. Mike and Phil discuss how spaces like these allow men to show up as their authentic selves, build connection and transform shame and isolation into strength and solidarity. In this episode we explore: - The challenges they have both faced in parenting, workplaces, and the SEND space. - How societal expectations and stigma can impact fathers navigating autism and ADHD. - The unique strengths neurodivergence brings to their parenting. - Why peer support spaces can be life-changing for fathers. - Tips for dads who want to get more involved in the SEND space. - Practical ways schools, services, and workplaces can better support neurodivergent dads and families. Listener Care: The views shared are personal perspectives from the guests based on their lived experiences. Their reflections highlight some of the barriers they have faced when engaging with schools and support spaces. Along with practical things that dads can do to become more involved in the SEND space, while also recognising the important role many mums and carers already play in advocating for their children. We recognise that many families and professionals are working hard to support children with SEND and that experiences may vary widely. We invite listeners to approach this conversation with curiosity and care. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book

    50 min
  6. The Power of Self-Advocacy

    27 FEB

    The Power of Self-Advocacy

    In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Heidi and Theo, a single mother and her only son from Wakefield in West Yorkshire, for a powerful and hopeful conversation about autistic burnout, rebuilding confidence, and the power of self-advocacy. When Theo was 15, he crashed out of school in what was later understood as significant autistic burnout. What followed were five years of navigating complex systems, challenging decisions, and fighting for his right to an education that truly met his needs. During that time, both Heidi and Theo were diagnosed as autistic and ADHD; a pivotal shift that reframed their past and reshaped their future. Now studying zoo management at university, Theo shares how he chose where to go based not on course appeal or location, but on the level of support available. Supported by Disabled Students’ Allowance and his assistance dog, Bertie, whom they describe as life-changing and life-saving, Theo reflects on building self-knowledge, independence, and the confidence to advocate for what he needs.  Theo speaks openly about learning to understand his nervous system, recognising his limits, and communicating them clearly, skills that have become foundational to both his wellbeing and his success. Heidi speaks candidly about the emotional complexity of sending your neurodivergent child to a university that isn’t close to home, and why trust, safety, and the right support structures matter. Together, they explore transition, sensory worlds, and the importance of asking the right questions when navigating education systems.  Heidi also shares practical strategies for parents and carers; how to challenge decisions constructively, how to prioritise safety, and how modelling honesty and resilience helps young people develop their own voice. This episode offers practical insight for families supporting neurodivergent young people, alongside an honest reflection on resilience, overcoming barriers and hope. It’s a conversation about the emotional and practical considerations of transitioning to university, about building self-advocacy skills early, and about choosing the right support over the “right” course, and what can happen when someone is finally given the space and understanding to come back to themselves. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book

    53 min
  7. Behind the mask

    13 FEB

    Behind the mask

    Listener note: We want to let listeners know that this episode includes discussion of trauma, suicidal ideation, and mental health crisis. Please listen in a way that feels supportive for you. In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Brian Haines for a deeply reflective conversation about the often-unseen mental health crises faced by late-diagnosed autistic adults, accumulated trauma, and the life-changing power of creativity - offering hope for anyone feeling unheard or misunderstood. Diagnosed as autistic at 61, Brian shares how his NHS diagnosis brought clarity to a lifetime of feeling “peculiar,” marginalised, and out of step with the social world. What followed was not relief, but a period of profound unravelling - burnout, mental health crisis, and standing, as he describes it, at the edge of the abyss. From that darkness, poetry emerged. Brian speaks openly about how writing became his emotional scaffolding when formal therapeutic support fell short - a way to structure overwhelming thoughts, process rage and loneliness, and give voice to what had long been hidden behind the mask. For someone who struggles with the spontaneity of social communication, poetry offers rhythm, certainty, and a space where his words can finally be heard, at his pace. Together they explore masking, marginalisation, suicidal ideation, autistic burnout, and the vulnerability of sharing creative work in a world that has not always felt safe. Brian reflects on isolation and the “crevasse” of autistic loneliness, and how creative expression - through poems such as Behind the Mask - has slowly built belonging, connection, and community. Brian also shares practical, gentle steps on how to begin your own creative journey, or support someone you care for, and why simply creating for yourself is enough to start. It’s a powerful episode about voice, survival, and the courage to step out from behind the mask - a reminder that creativity can become both scaffold and bridge to belonging. Autism Central Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, group coaching, online events and resources Connect with Brian  Instagram: @autistically61 YouTube: ⁠https://m.youtube.com/@brianhaines7922⁠ Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book

    47 min
  8. Waves of Compassion

    30 JAN

    Waves of Compassion

    Listener note: We want to let listeners know that this episode includes discussion of grief and the loss of a child. Please listen in a way that feels supportive for you. In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Sue Lansbury for a deeply moving and compassionate conversation about late autism discovery, grief, creativity, and aging as an autistic woman in a world that often overlooks older women, especially autistic older women. Diagnosed as autistic at the age of 68, Sue reflects on a lifetime shaped by confusion, overwhelm, masking, and the huge personal cost of pushing through. She shares how receiving her diagnosis brought both relief and the slow, ongoing work of rediscovering herself - reconnecting with her youngest self through art, making, and a lifelong relationship with the natural world. Sue speaks powerfully about burnout, invisibility, and the risks faced by autistic people whose needs remain undiscovered later in life. She also reflects with great tenderness on the death of her son Jay - a gifted, fearless artist - and how art, ritual, and the changing seasons have helped her hold grief, love, and memory together. Throughout the conversation, Sue offers “waves of compassion” -  for herself, for parents and carers navigating guilt around late discovery, and for autistic people and families living within systems that still struggle to understand and support them. She introduces the idea of creating a personal “self-portrait” to capture needs, sensitivities, and ways of being, as a way of protecting dignity and wellbeing as we age. Their conversation explores: - Late autism discovery and the emotional cost of masking - Burnout, aging, and the invisibility of older autistic women - Grief, loss, and autistic experiences of profound change - Art as a process for expression and healing when words aren’t enough - Compassion over guilt for families facing late discovery - Advocacy, legacy, and why a more diverse society benefits everyone It’s a wise and hopeful episode about grief and growth, creativity and care, and the importance of meeting ourselves -  and each other -  with compassion at every stage of life. Autism Central Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book

    47 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Real stories and honest conversations, we bring together autistic people and the people who love, support, and care for autistic people of all ages and backgrounds to explore every aspect of life. Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people in England, the programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. Through education, coaching, and connection, we offer resources, webinars, one-to-one peer support, and community events that centre lived experience and build real understanding www.autismcentral.org.uk

Information

  • Creator
    By Autism Central
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © By Autism Central
  • Show Website
    Autism Central Podcast

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