This episode dives into one of the most frustrating realities facing the neurodivergent community: getting an autism diagnosis is harder than it should be — and that's not an accident.

We explore the flaws of the ADOS assessment, the financial and systemic incentives that drive gatekeeping, and the lack of adequate training among professionals evaluating adults. Maria and Tabitha also discuss why self-diagnosis and community-based knowledge are not only valid but vital, and what meaningful advocacy for change looks like.

Key topics covered:

• Systemic barriers in autism diagnosis
• Critique of the ADOS and its limitations
• Financial incentives behind diagnostic gatekeeping
• Neurodiversity beyond standard testing
• Advocacy for broader access to evaluations

🌸 We're joining this year's #Podcasthon and proudly supporting the Paperflower Foundation, which works to bridge mental health access gaps for underserved Arizonans.

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In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria and Tabitha unpack how hormones hijack mental health, especially for people with ADHD navigating birth control, perimenopause, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

They explore how hormonal shifts affect dopamine, medication response, mood regulation, and executive function, why ADHD symptoms often worsen during hormonal transitions, and how testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone interact with psychiatric treatment.

The conversation also highlights gaps in women’s health research, the importance of individualized care, and why patients must advocate for themselves when treatment suddenly stops working.

If you’ve ever wondered why your meds feel different, your symptoms escalated out of nowhere, or no one warned you about menopause being a mental health event, this episode is for you.

🔔 subscribe for more neuroaffirming, evidence-based conversations
 🌸 learn more at paperflowerpsychiatry.com

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In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria and Tabitha unpack the hormonal chaos of pregnancy and postpartum through a neurodivergent lens. They explore what happens to neurotransmitters during pregnancy, why postpartum can feel like a neurochemical ambush, and how ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence intersect with hormonal shifts.

The episode also addresses medication management during pregnancy, the emotional and hormonal aftermath of miscarriage, and the long-term changes many people experience for years after giving birth. Maria and Tabitha highlight the importance of supportive providers, evidence-based guidance, and compassionate community care.

Whether you are pregnant, postpartum, navigating loss, or supporting someone through it, this episode offers validation, clarity, and practical tools grounded in clinical experience.

Key Topics Covered:
• How pregnancy hormones reshape mental health
• Why postpartum depression is common and often overlooked
• The unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face postpartum
• ADHD and hormonal fluctuations
• Medication safety and management during pregnancy
• Miscarriage and the neurochemical fallout
• The long game of hormonal change
• Finding providers who understand both hormones and neurodivergence
• Support systems and community resources, including PSI

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Your hormones aren’t just background noise — they’re out here running monthly side quests that impact mood, focus, energy, and mental health.

In this episode, Maria and Tabitha dig into how the menstrual cycle actually works, why hormonal education is so inaccessible, and why neurodivergent folks often feel hormonal shifts more intensely.

From “why do I feel feral today?” to “is this ADHD or estrogen?”, this is the breakdown your providers should have given you years ago.

We also share practical, neurodivergent-friendly ways to track your cycle so you can understand your patterns and support your mental health with more clarity and self-compassion.

🌸 Listen now on Brain Trash.
🌸 Learn more at https://www.paperflowerpsychiatry.com

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Are psychedelics the future of psychiatry—or just another wave of hype? In this episode, Maria and Tabitha sit down with John Greeley to break down what the research really says about psychedelics like psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine. We cover safety, harm reduction, cultural concerns, and what clinicians and patients alike need to know.

✨ Learn about:

• The science behind psychedelics and the brain
• Why harm reduction matters
• How providers can support patients using psychedelics
• The cultural and ethical tensions shaping this field

🔔 Subscribe for more honest, neurodivergent-affirming conversations on mental health.

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Ketamine has been called a breakthrough treatment for depression, PTSD, and anxiety. But behind the hype lies a complex reality. In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria Ingalla, Tabitha Arey, and John Greeley take on the promises and pitfalls of ketamine therapy—exploring its science, ethical dilemmas, and why integration is essential.

This conversation is a must-listen for clinicians, patients, and anyone curious about where ketamine fits into the future of mental health.

👉 Subscribe to Brain Trash wherever you get your podcasts.
 🌸 Learn more at paperflowerpsychiatry.com

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Buying cannabis shouldn’t feel like gambling with your mental health—but often it does. From high-THC strains that increase risk of negative outcomes to poorly regulated CBD products for kids, cannabis is far from simple.

In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria and Tabitha talk with John Greeley about cannabis, psychiatry, and why informed choices matter.

🌸 Learn more: here
📑 Info Resources: here
🌱 CBD Resources: here

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"I Want To Rip My Skin Off": Sensory Hell and Sex

What does sex feel like when sensory input is overwhelming or painful? In this episode of Brain Trash, we explore the intense (and often unspoken) connection between sensory processing and intimacy for autistic and neurodivergent individuals.

We talk about touch aversion, masturbation as self-discovery, aftercare, scripting your needs, and why hookup culture often fails neurodivergent bodies.

This one’s raw, honest, and validating as hell.

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

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The Safe Word is “Consent”: The Psychology of Autism and Sex

What do kink, structure, and sensory regulation have in common? For many autistic individuals, BDSM isn’t just about pleasure—it’s about safety, identity, and healing.

In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria and Tabitha explore:

• Why autistic folks are often drawn to kink communities
• The comfort of clear roles, rules, and rituals
• How consent and power exchange can support trauma recovery
• The connection between sensory needs and intimacy
• Why clinicians need to stop pathologizing kink

This isn’t a taboo—it’s a mental health conversation.
 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or right here.

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WELCOME TO THE SECOND SEASON OF BRAIN TRASH!

Autism and Sex: Myths, Consent, and Neurodivergent Intimacy

This episode of Brain Trash takes a bold step into a rarely discussed space: the intersection of autism and sex. Hosts Maria Ingalla and Tabitha explore the myths, misunderstandings, and unique challenges autistic people face in navigating intimacy, consent, and sensory overwhelm.

🔥 In this episode:

• Debunking myths about autistic sex and asexuality
• The pressure to perform and masking in intimate settings
• Why sensory awareness matters in sexual well-being
• The importance of consent and boundaries
• A call to action for providers and community advocates

Whether you're neurodivergent, a healthcare professional, or just ready to listen—this conversation is essential.

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Why Autistic Brains Struggle with Sleep | Brain Trash Podcast

In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria Ingalla and Tabitha Arey unpack the science and lived experiences behind sleep struggles in autistic individuals. From melatonin dysregulation and altered sleep architecture to sensory processing and behavioral cycles—this episode digs into why sleep is so often misunderstood in neurodivergent care.

Whether you’re a provider, parent, or navigating your own neurodivergent sleep landscape, this one’s for you.

Topics Covered:

• Why melatonin works differently in autistic people
• What sleep architecture really looks like in autism
• How sensory needs affect rest
• The role of medication and when to consider it
• Why structure is more than just a bedtime routine

🎧 Subscribe for more episodes on autism, psychiatry, and neurodivergent mental health.

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In this episode of Brain Trash, hosts Maria Ingalla and Tabitha Arey take a brutally honest look at what psychiatric diagnosis actually means in 2025. From rushed 15-minute appointments to diagnosis codes written for insurance companies—not care—this episode unpacks the messy, outdated system we're all stuck in.

We dive into:

• How ICD-10 and DSM coding shapes your treatment
• The dangers of misdiagnosis (especially for neurodivergent folks)
• Why screeners don’t tell the full story
• The stigma and identity confusion that comes with labels
• What we really need from a modern diagnostic system

Whether you're a provider, patient, or someone navigating your own diagnosis, this one’s for you.

🧠 Subscribe, rate, and share.
 Visit www.braintrash.buzzsprout.com for more

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RFK's proposed Autism Registry isn’t about public health—it’s about power.

This week on Brain Trash, we dive into the controversial Autism Registry plan and what it means for neurodivergent communities. We discuss how data collection can be weaponized, why environmental blame narratives are harmful, and how this policy might impact access to services.

We’re calling it what it is: a dangerous precedent.

Hear the truth and download our free guide at paperflowerinstitute.com

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Is it clumsiness — or is it dyspraxia?

In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria Ingalla and Tabitha Arey break down what developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia) actually looks like — and why so many neurodivergent people are going undiagnosed.

We talk about: 

• Why dyspraxia is way more than just being “bad at sports”
• What dyspraxia means for motor skills, daily living, and mental health
• The real impact on kids and adults navigating a world not built for their brains
• The role of therapy, medication, and practical support
• Teaching strategies that actually work
• And why neurodivergence deserves more understanding — not more shame.

If you've ever been called “lazy” or “uncoordinated” when your brain just works differently — this episode is for you.

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In this conversation, Maria Ingalla and Tabitha discuss the implications of a new executive order related to child abuse prevention, focusing on the controversial topic of gender ideology and its perceived threat to children. They explore the realities of child abuse, the impact of trauma, and the importance of support for trans youth. The discussion highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare providers in the current political climate and emphasizes the need for advocacy and education to ensure the well-being of all children.

• The new executive order on child abuse prevention raises concerns.
• Gender ideology is framed as a threat to children's well-being.
• Actual child abuse statistics reveal different perpetrators than suggested.
• Trauma significantly impacts children's mental health and behavior.
• Legislation affects access to care for trans youth.
• Misconceptions about gender-affirming care are prevalent.
• Suicide rates among trans youth are alarmingly high.
• Support from adults can drastically reduce suicide risk.
• Healthcare providers face ethical dilemmas in their practice.
• Advocacy and education are crucial for informed decision-making.

Video is available on Youtube and the Podcast is available everywhere!

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Summary
Psychiatric meds but make it a high school yearbook superlative. 🏆 In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria and Tabitha dive into the chaotic world of mental health medications—who’s the MVP, who’s most likely to ruin your sex life, and who’s the overachiever you can’t live without. From SSRIs and benzodiazepines to ADHD meds, we’re breaking down what they do, their side effects, and the real conversations doctors aren’t always having. Plus, let’s talk about what no one wants to admit—meds affect sexual health, dependency, and how we function daily. We’re making the conversations around psych meds transparent, unfiltered, and a little unhinged (as it should be).

Takeaways
✔ Psychiatric meds can absolutely be ranked like high school superlatives—because why not?
 ✔ SSRIs (Lexapro, Zoloft, etc.) are commonly prescribed but affect everyone differently.
✔ Stacking Wellbutrin with SSRIs can help mitigate sexual side effects.
✔ Benzos (Xanax, Ativan) work fast but can lead to dependency & withdrawals.
✔ Seroquel? The “knocks-you-out” MVP of sedation.
✔ ADHD meds are vital, but stigma makes them misunderstood.
✔ Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction is a real issue that no one talks about enough.
✔ Open convos about medications, sexual health, and side effects need to happen more.
✔ Adderall’s hype is real, but misinformation makes it a hot topic.
✔ The psych med convo needs more honesty, less stigma, and better transparency.

Chapters
⏳ 00:00 – Intro: Mental Health Meds & Their High School Awards
 📖 00:36 – Superlative Awards for Psychiatric Medications
 🍆 04:34 – The Impact of SSRIs on Sexual Health (Let’s Be Real)
 💊 09:56 – Benzodiazepines: Fast-Acting but High Risk
 ⚡ 11:32 – The Stimulant Debate: ADHD Medications & Social Stigma
 🎤 21:11 – Closing Thoughts & What Needs to Change

🎧 Listen Now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & ANYWHERE you get your podcasts!

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Episode Summary:
Mental health is under fire—again. In this episode, Maria and Tabitha break down the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ executive order and its dangerous implications for people with autism, ADHD, and mental health conditions. From medication access to Big Pharma’s grip on treatment options, we’re exposing the misinformation fueling public fear and the real consequences of misguided health policies. 

• Why are mental health diagnoses like autism and ADHD being questioned?
•  Who decides what treatments are “valid” or “necessary”?
•  How much control does Big Pharma really have?

We’re diving deep into the political, financial, and systemic forces shaping mental health care, medication access, and military disqualifications—because this isn’t just about policy. It’s about real people, real lives, and real consequences.

Key Takeaways: 

• Mental health medications are under threat, leaving many patients worried about losing access to essential treatment.
•  The executive order questions the validity of psychiatric research, fueling harmful narratives about autism and ADHD.
•  Autism and ADHD aren’t “new” conditions—but society’s understanding is evolving, and that’s a good thing.
•  Many parents struggle to accept their child’s neurodivergence, seeking to “fix” them instead of supporting them.
•  The military’s exclusion of people with mental health conditions raises serious ethical concerns about inclusion and discrimination.
•  Yes, nutrition and lifestyle matter—but medications play a vital role, and we need both, not one over the other.
•  The commission behind this executive order is full of red flags, with unqualified members making critical health decisions.
•  Big Pharma controls more than we realize, influencing medication availability, public perception, and government policy.
•  Misinformation spreads faster than facts—and it’s harming the people who need treatment the most.
•  The future of psychiatric medications is being shaped by political agendas, financial interests, and systemic biases—so we better start paying attention. 

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Summary
In this episode, Maria and Tabitha explore the intricate connections between neurodivergence and connective tissue disorders, particularly focusing on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and POTS. They discuss the prevalence of these conditions in women, the role of collagen in bodily functions, and the challenges faced by patients in the healthcare system, including gaslighting and misunderstandings in treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for better education, advocacy, and understanding among healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes.

Takeaways:

• Neurodivergence and connective tissue disorders often overlap, especially in women.
• Research on these conditions is limited, particularly regarding sex differences.
• Collagen plays a crucial role in connective tissue health and related disorders.
• Patients with POTS often experience symptoms that are misattributed to anxiety or neurodivergence.
• Gaslighting in healthcare can lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment.
• Understanding autonomic dysfunction is key to addressing symptoms in patients with POTS.
• Stimulants may actually help patients with POTS rather than worsen their symptoms.
• Education and advocacy are essential for patients navigating the healthcare system.
• Healthcare providers need to listen to and validate their patients' experiences.
• Arming patients with knowledge can empower them to advocate for their health.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Connective Tissue Disorders
00:27 Patterns in Neurodivergence and Connective Tissue Disorders
04:55 The Role of Collagen in Health
06:49 Understanding Autonomic Dysfunction
10:39 Gaslighting in Healthcare
16:17 Treatment Approaches and Misunderstandings
19:35 Advocacy and Seeking Care

#neurodivergence #connectivetissuedisorders #ehlersdanlos #EDS #podcast #psychiatry #ADHD #autism #POTS #mentalhealth #gaslighting #healthcare #advocacy #mentalhealthawareness

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Autism has long been boxed into a narrow stereotype—white, male, socially awkward, obsessed with trains. But what about the autistic people who don’t fit that mold? The girl who made it to adulthood without a diagnosis because she was “just shy”? The high-achieving professional who burns out repeatedly but is told they’re just anxious? The Black kid who gets labeled as “defiant” instead of supported? The adult who spent years self-medicating with alcohol or drugs because they were never given the right framework to understand themselves?

In this episode of Brain Trash, we’re breaking down the DSM’s diagnostic criteria for autism, point by point, and exposing just how many people slip through the cracks. We’ll dig into how sensory sensitivities, social differences, and repetitive behaviors manifest in ways that aren’t always obvious—especially in those who mask or were forced to adapt from a young age. From hyper-empathy to burnout, camouflaging to substance use, we’ll explore the many ways autism can present that the DSM fails to capture, and why this misunderstanding has real, harmful consequences.

If you’re a clinician who works in mental health or you’re a person who questioned neurodivergence to your provider only to get shot down because you don’t “look” autistic, then you better have a seat and pop on your headphones.  Don’t miss our deep dive into how the DSM leads clinicians to the stereotypical presentations. Subscribe and leave any questions or thoughts!

#podcast #podcasts  #autismdiagnosis #autismawareness #actuallyautistic #neurodivergent #autisticwomen #autisticadults #autisticblack #autismstereotypes #autismmasking #autismacceptance #autismadvocacy #autismmisdiagnosis #mentalhealthmatters #psychiatrypodcast #braintrashpodcast #dsmcritique #autismdiagnostics #autismburnout #sensoryprocessing #autisticcommunity #undiagnosedautism #misdiagnosedautism #selfdiagnosedautistic #neurodiversitymovement #maskingautism #mentalhealthpodcast #pmhnp #mentalhealthproviders #psychiatrymatters #dsmfails 

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Is TikTok actually helping people understand neurodivergence, or is it just fueling a wave of self-diagnoses? In this no-BS, unfiltered first episode of Brain Trash, we’re tackling the big debate about social media and self-diagnosis.

We’re Maria Ingalla and Tabitha Arey, psychiatric nurse practitioners who are super tired of the outdated approach to mental health. We’re here to dive into:

•  The real reason so many people are turning to TikTok for answers
•  How the system is screwing over neurodivergent people (especially women & queer folks)
• Why psych screenings can get it so wrong
• The dangers of blindly throwing meds at symptoms instead of getting to the root cause
• What clinicians AND patients need to know in navigating this mess

If you’re a clinician tired of outdated psych takes, a med-nerd who loves dark humor, or just someone who’s been told “you can’t possibly have ADHD/autism”, you’re in the right place.

Subscribe and send us your questions—we’re just getting started.

#Psychiatry #MentalHealthPodcast #Neurodivergence #ADHD #Autism #TikTokDiagnosis #BrainTrashPodcast #Mentalhealth #PMHNP #Nursing #Nursingstudent #AUDHD #Latediagnosedautistic #latediagnosedADHD #womenwithADHD #autisticwomen #neuroqueer

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