How to support your neurodiverse teen

Let's All Talk Mental Health
01:01:41
The discussion focuses on supporting neurodivergent teenagers, particularly those experiencing sensory sensitivity and emotional overwhelm. Dr. Knight provides insights into recognizing signs of sensory overload and offers strategies for parents to help their teens manage these challenges. The conversation also covers the importance of understanding individual sensory profiles, the role of routine, and the need for parents to balance support without being overbearing. Audience questions address various concerns, including managing screen time, dealing with OCD, and supporting teens with eating disorders.
Highlights
- Discussion on supporting neurodivergent teens with sensory sensitivity and emotional regulation.
- Importance of recognizing individual sensory profiles and triggers.
- Strategies for parents to help teens manage sensory overload and emotional overwhelm.
- Emphasis on routine and structure in managing screen time and daily activities.
- Audience questions on topics like OCD, eating disorders, and balancing support.
Quotes
- "It's about checking in and recognizing what state your kid is in as much as possible."
- "You want to build up a shared understanding with them because it doesn't look the same in everybody."
- "Routine, routine, routine is really important."
Speaker
Sarah-Jane Knight
Dr
Dr Sarah-Jane Knight is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Psychology Specialism Lead for a national provider of specialist education as well as the lead for Commune Psychology. She has core training in CBT, systemic and psychodynamic approaches and additional training in group psychoanalytic psychotherapy, attachment-focussed therapies and approaches used in treating trauma. In addition, she has training in specialist assessment tools, such as the ADOS (autism assessment).
Working in outpatient and inpatient services in the NHS for many years and then in her own and a specialist practice for adopted children prior to establishing Commune. When in Commune Psychology, Sarah-Jane spends much of her time offering a consultation services to specialist education settings, residential children's services and other specialist providers.

How to support your neurodiverse teen
01:01:41