Understanding Autism and ADHD: A Journey That Started at Home

*Disclaimer*

I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, BCBA, or diagnostician.
Nothing here is meant to diagnose or replace professional evaluation.

I am a behavioral technician in training, someone actively working in the field, and someone who has walked beside families for years — first as a mother navigating unknown territory, and later as a support worker helping others find clarity and resources. My goal is to educate, guide, and help people understand where to begin.

This is information. This is experience. This is lived reality — not medical advice.

What to Expect Here

 

This space will grow over time. I’ll be starting with the basics — laying solid groundwork, defining terms clearly, and addressing the most common questions and misconceptions. From there, we’ll go deeper.

 

As new research emerges, language evolves, or understanding shifts, I’ll update and expand what’s shared here. Neurodivergence is not static, and neither is this work. Think of this as a living resource — one you can return to as your questions change and your understanding deepens.

 

I always welcome comments. I read every one of them. If you have specific questions, uncertainties, or topics you want addressed, leave them in the comments. If it’s something others are likely wondering too, I’ll write a post on it.

 

There are no dumb questions here. The only dumb question is the one not asked.

 

If this resonates, check back often. Each post will build on the last, slowly widening the lens and adding clarity where there has long been confusion.

 


ADHD:

ADD and ADHD: Same Umbrella, Different Experiences

For decades, the terms ADD and ADHD were used as if they described two entirely different conditions. Even now, many people say things like, “He has ADHD, but she just has ADD,” or “I can’t have ADHD because I’m not hyper.” That confusion didn’t come from nowhere—it grew out of outdated language, limited research, and a narrow view of how attention differences actually present.

Read more »

Autism/AuDHD: