The Autism Roundtable
The Autism Roundtable
Podcast Description
Parenting a child with autism is never easy. Hear from the experts to be empowered. Know more, to do more.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The show focuses on critical themes surrounding autism and neurodiversity, including holistic health approaches, early intervention strategies, the emotional journey of parenting children with autism, and supportive therapies such as ABA. Episodes include practical advice on gut health and brain function in children with autism, personal parenting stories, and strategies to aid siblings in understanding disabilities, emphasizing actionable insights and community support.
Parenting a child with autism is never easy. Hear from the experts to be empowered. Know more, to do more.
What does it really mean to accept an autism diagnosis—and how can that acceptance shape the lives of children, teens, and adults alike? In this episode, licensed professional therapist Kesley Rogers joins Leah Gross to explore the journey of navigating autism, ADHD, and related challenges across the lifespan.
Kesley Rogers shares her path from volunteering with Project Search to becoming a licensed therapist specializing in neurodivergence. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting autism diagnoses, not as limitations but as opportunities for growth and support. The discussion spans early childhood challenges, teenage struggles with anxiety and depression, and adult issues like masking, job placement, and black-and-white thinking. Kesley highlights the need for open communication, advocacy, and emotional support while encouraging families and individuals to embrace authenticity and pursue fulfilling work and relationships.
About The Guest:
Kesley Rogers is a licensed professional therapist practicing in Tennessee and Alabama. With over a decade of experience in the autism community, she works with children, teens, and adults, focusing on neurodivergence, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and related conditions. Her passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate diagnoses, find their strengths, and live authentically.
Time Stamps:
(02:09) Early inspiration and understanding the autism spectrum
(05:52) The debate around labeling and diagnosis
(09:55) Autism as a “superpower” and guiding strengths
(11:11) Accepting individuality instead of forcing conformity
(13:22) Common diagnoses in Kesley’s practice
(16:26) Communication and advocacy with families and schools
(19:50) Functional solutions for ADHD challenges
(22:30) Challenges from early childhood to school years
(25:28) Teenage years: anxiety, depression, and social struggles
(33:30) Masking: effects, risks, and long-term outcomes
(43:29) Adult challenges: late diagnosis, job placement, and fulfillment
(55:49) Using special interests to guide work choices
(59:23) Purpose, structure, and the importance of meaningful work
Ready to rethink how we approach autism, acceptance, and support at every stage of life?
Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies and heartfelt insights from Kesley Rogers.
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.