Steve Gundy Coaching, LLC

12/07/2024

A special time with my special needs son, attending a Christmas party for individuals in my local community. Making community go is crucial for helping individuals progress socially, emotionally and makes them seen and known. ❤️❤️❤️

05/17/2024

What would you say to your panicked young adult if he called you from work, unwilling to try, and saying, “I want to come home!”

My high-functioning, young adult, autistic son got his first job as a part-time grocery bagger at our local store! 🎉 But it hasn't been easy—he battles a mischievous monster we call the “Gremlin.” This gremlin ignites obsessive hand-washing and overwhelming fears, making everyday tasks a huge challenge.

It impacted my son so much that he wouldn’t listen to me when I gave help. Honestly, I secretly regretted each time I felt frustration over what looked like stubbornness and lack of effort.

I came to understand that my son was in pain. Why? He wanted to do the work, so he could be self supportive, but the gremlin made it extremely hard for him to see what he must do in order to move toward the things he wants.

Recently, he called me from work, panicking and wanting to come home. He was convinced that touching a food product would give him flesh-eating bacteria. It was heartbreaking to hear, but then inspiration struck! 💡

I asked him to take 5 deep breaths to calm his mind and then quoted his favorite show, "The Office." Together, we created a mantra: “False! Bears, Beats, Battlestar Galactica!” 🐻🎶🚀

Here’s our 3-step action plan:
1. Spot the food product and think “False!”
2. Touch the food product and say “Bears!”
3. Place it in the bag and say “Beats!”
4. Tie off the bag and say “Battlestar Galactica!”

This strategy helps him focus on something he loves while tackling the task at hand. 🌈✨

The gremlin does come back, but each time it’s an opportunity for my son to practice his skills and grow his confidence. I’m so proud of him and feel more confident in guiding him through these tough moments. 💪❤️

Do you want to help your child face their gremlins and gain independence? Contact me for a strategy session: https://stevegundycoaching.com/

05/02/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/autism/what-are-the-societal-attitudes-towards-autism/

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) covers a range of neurodevelopmental conditions marked by challenges in social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and

04/19/2024

You are your child's greatest asset!

In an era where autism diagnoses are increasing globally, it is crucial to understand the underlying risk factors. This knowledge not only aids in proactive

04/05/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/autism/which-demographic-groups-are-impacted-by-autism/

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and restricted or

03/29/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/autism/what-is-the-impact-of-autism-on-learning-and-education/

Autism, a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication skills, and repetitive behaviors, significantly

03/15/2024

I was a guest on the "Owner's Corner" Podcast. What I do, how I do it and why I do what I do to support those living with Autism & ADHD and my future are discussed.

This podcast is about navigating the landscape of people with behavioral challenges and coaching for adults with special needs.

03/08/2024

Before you see a weakness with a young adult living with ADHD/Autism remember that the weakness you see is a hidden strength looking for the correct context where it will thrive.

03/07/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/autism/understanding-the-spectrum-a-guide-to-the-different-types-of-autism/

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive

02/29/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/autism/breaking-the-cycle-strategies-to-manage-obsessions-perseveration-in-autism-and-adhd/

What is the difference between obsessing and perseveration? Perseveration refers to the repetition of a particular behaviour, thought, or activity. How it

02/23/2024

02/16/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/adhd/how-does-hyperactivity-manifest-in-someone-with-adhd/

Hyperactivity in individuals living with ADHD is often visible through behaviors like an inability to stay seated, persistent fidgeting, and an overabundance

02/16/2024

While working with a young adult living with Autism or ADHD, think in terms of "1". One skill practiced in one context or with one person or using one item in one place. For example, the skill of making a meal using a stove in the kitchen to make one food item and practiced repeatedly until the young adult is doing it correctly and safely. A skill is learned and retained more realistically when we use the concept of "1". We will otherwise overwhelm the young person and cause them to retreat.

02/09/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/adhd/how-does-autism-affect-navigating-daily-life-and-functioning/

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that shows up in a wide range of challenges, affecting social interaction, communication, and

02/09/2024

People living with ADHD and Autism need smaller incremental steps to climb one step at a time and at a pace their capacity can manage. That gives the young adult the space to climb as high as typical people. Maybe not at the same speed or quantity, but still going up! 💪

02/08/2024

https://stevegundycoaching.com/autism/what-are-the-current-research-trends-in-autism-and-adhd/

Neurodevelopmental disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions

12/28/2023

The SGC team wishes you a safe and Happy New Year! We look forward to serving families in 2024.

12/28/2023

How do we achieve emotional balance living with a neurodivergent mind?

ADHD and the challenge of regulating emotions go hand in hand. It’s like trying to row a boat in a sea with thunder and waves. How do we begin to address the