Episode 95 - Unlocking Neurodiversity: Bailey Pilant’s Journey and Insights
What if the way your brain works isn’t something to “fix”—but something to understand? In this insightful episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Bailey Pilant gets real about her personal journey with ADHD and autism (two neurodivergent conditions), and how finally understanding her neurodivergence changed everything—from how she sees herself to how she supports others.
She talks with Co-Host Julie Woon about what it actually looks like to navigate a world that isn’t built for neurodivergent minds—and why neurodivergent-affirming therapy and finding the right community can be game-changers. Bailey breaks down the difference between feeling “off” and feeling understood, and why that distinction matters more than most people realize.
This conversation goes beyond personal insight—it’s about rethinking the system itself. From therapy approaches to broader cultural shifts, Bailey shares what needs to change so neurodivergent individuals aren’t just getting by—but are actually supported in ways that help them thrive.
🎧Tune in now to learn and better understand neurodivergence from Bailey and help be a part of the change to transform mental health support in your community and beyond! And don't forget to share this episode with a friend!
Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Neurodivergence and Mental Health
(01:56) Personal Journey: From Diagnosis to Therapy
(05:46) Understanding Neurodivergence: Definitions and Forms
(11:17) The Gender Gap in Neurodivergence Diagnoses
(17:06) Subtle Signs of Neurodivergence in Women
(23:49) Understanding Neurodivergence and Its Impact
(25:11) Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy: A Holistic Approach
(29:02) Therapeutic Techniques for Neurodivergent Individuals
(30:07) Finding the Right Therapist for Neurodivergence
(32:58) The Importance of Community and Peer Support
(34:40) Reflections on Personal Mental Health Journeys
(38:09) Empowerment and Acceptance for the Different
(39:12) Changing Societal Perceptions of Neurodivergence
Links:
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Learn more about this episode's guest, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, Bailey Pilant at The Wave Counseling here: https://thewavecounseling.com/about
Follow her daily @ on her pages on Instagram and Tiktok.
Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host and Content Marketing Strategist, Julie Woon, here:
https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon
Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com