Advertise on podcast: Autism Unpacked
This podcast has
30 episodes
Explicit
No
Date created
2024/09/18
Latest episode
2026/09/06
Average duration
29 min.
Release period
28 days
Description
Welcome to Autism Unpacked - a podcast exploring autism and the wider world of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Through honest conversations with families, educators, clinicians and professionals, we explore the topics that matter to the SEN community - from diagnosis, education and mental health to behaviour, relationships, family life and beyond. Autism will always be at the heart of our journey, but as the podcast grows, so does the conversation. Our aim is to share real experiences, expert insight and practical advice to help parents, carers, educators and professionals better understand and navigate SEN. Podcast host Rosie Moss. As a mum of three children, two of whom are proudly neurodivergent, and a neurodivergent woman herself, Rosie’s story is one of an advocate for shared experiences. A trusted and award-winning podcast host, Rosie is known for her empathetic and insightful approach - authenticity is always at the heart of every conversation. Rosie's blend of personal experience and professional insight allows her to connect with guests and audience on a profound level, creating podcasts that are engaging, entertaining and honest. Autism Unpacked is brought to you by Options Autism, part of the Outcomes First Group and the UK’s leading provider of educational support for neurodivergent children and young adults from Early Years to FE. Watch full episode, discover real-life stories and hear from experts across education and care. www.optionsautism.co.uk/autism-unpacked-podcast/ www.youtube.com/@autismunpacked Disclaimer The content shared in this podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered health advice.The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the company.Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding Autism and any other medical, neurodevelopment and/or mental health condition.We shall not be liable for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast or any reliance of the matters discussed.Any logos or images used in the podcast are the intellectual property of the company or its guests and may not be used commercially without permission.
Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from Autism Unpacked podcast
Episode 22 - School Behaviour and Meltdowns: Your Questions Answered
2026/09/06
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Starting school, navigating the education system and understanding your child's behaviour can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re trying to work out what your child needs and how best to support them.
In this episode of Autism Unpacked, we’re joined by Clinical Psychologist Dr Freya Spicer White to explore some of the questions and challenges that parents of children with Special Educational Needs, including autism, may face at school.
What should you do if your child is being described as “naughty” when you feel there could be something more going on? How can you recognise the impact of bullying, and what can you do to support your child? And what can you do when busy, noisy environments become overwhelming and your child reaches the point of meltdown?
We explore:
Bullying – recognising when something may be wrong and supporting your child through the emotional impact“Naughty” behaviour – understanding what behaviour might be communicating and how parents can work with school to advocate for their childBusy environments – recognising sensory overload and finding ways to make overwhelming situations more manageableMeltdowns – understanding what happens when a child reaches their “point of no return” and how parents can respond safely and supportivelyWhether your child is autistic, has other Special Educational Needs, is awaiting an assessment, or you’re simply trying to understand behaviour that doesn’t seem to fit the explanations you’ve been given, this episode offers reassurance, practical advice and a different way of looking at some of the challenges families can face.
You’re not alone – and your child’s behaviour may be telling you more than you realise.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Series 3 Trailer
2026/08/30
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Series 3 is here — and we're widening the conversation.
Autism Unpacked returns with honest, real-life conversations that go beyond autism to explore the wider world of Special Educational Needs (SEN). From the school environment to behaviour, crucial advice and real-life stories, we're navigating SEN together.
Whether you're a parent, carer, educator or clinician, Series 3 has something for you. Hit follow and join us as we take the next step.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 21 - Autism Diagnosis: What Parents Need to Know
2026/07/05
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Wondering if your child might be autistic? This highlights episode brings together the most powerful conversations from Autism Unpacked on the autism diagnosis journey - from early signs to the benefits and challenges of assessment, and life after diagnosis.
For many parents, the road to an autism diagnosis feels overwhelming, emotional and full of questions. From recognising early signs of autism in boys and girls, to deciding whether to seek an assessment, navigating the assessment process, and the moment diagnosis is confirmed — it's a journey filled with both challenges and revelations.
In this special compilation episode, we revisit some of the series' standout conversations with expert guests, exploring:
Common signs of autism in boys and girls that may prompt families to seek an assessmentWhat the autism assessment and diagnosis process involvesThe emotions parents often experience before, during and after diagnosisConcerns about labels, stigma, and what a diagnosis might mean for a child's futureEarly diagnosis and why understanding your child's needs can make such a differenceWhether a diagnosis can change over timeWhether you're at the very start of your journey, currently navigating assessment, or reflecting on life after diagnosis - this episode brings expert insight, reassurance and practical guidance to help you feel informed and supported.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 20 - Is My Child Autistic? Early Signs and More - A Parent Q&A
2026/05/31
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If you've found yourself Googling "is my child autistic?" at 2am, this episode is for you. We sit down with consultant clinical psychologist, Dr Freya Spicer-White, to get honest, clear answers to the questions that so many parents are asking — but may be too worried to say out loud.
In this episode:
How to tell the difference between the early signs of autism and a developmental quirkDoes autism run in siblings - and what that means for your familyNavigating diagnosis process - those all important questionsWhen autism and ADHD overlap - and what that meansCan a diagnosis changes over time?Could I have caused my child's autism?Is it ok to call on Google and AI when it comes to autism?When and how to push for a second opinionIf you're in the thick of it, or just starting to wonder - this one will help you feel less alone and more prepared for whatever comes next.
For more detail on the topics covered, explore our previous episodes where we dive into many of these subjects in more depth.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 19 - Being An Autism Brother
2026/05/03
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This is the second in our two episodes focusing on the reality of being an autistic sibling, featuring Becky Smith and her son, Max. Together, Becky and Max have written two amazing books: I'm An Autism Brother, and I'm A Big Autism Brother.
In this episode, we delve into Max's experiences of growing up with two autistic sisters, navigating complex emotions and challenging situations, and his place in a family shaped by autism.
Whether you’re a sibling of an autistic young person, a parent wanting to better support neurotypical siblings, or someone looking for honest autism family stories, this conversation offers powerful lived experiences, practical advice and real insight.
We cover:
The emotions of having an autistic siblingCommon challenges faced by siblings and ways to copeThe pride and positives that come with having autistic siblingsHow Max helps his sisters communicateWhy writing two books helped Becky to support Max How the writing experience was a powerful experience for them bothHow the books are helping other young people understand autismTo end this heart-warming episode, Max reads an extract from his wonderful books.
To find out more about Becky and Max's story, visit: https://autismbrother.com/
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 18 - Growing Up with Autistic Siblings
2026/04/05
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In this episode, we shine a light on a group quitely growing up alongside autism: siblings. Brothers and sisters who love fiercely, adapt instinctively, sometimes worry deeply and often understand more than we realise.
We're delighted to be joined by Becky and Max Smith. Becky is mum to three children - Daisy and Georgie-Rose who are autistic - and their brother, Max.
Drawing on their lived experience, Becky and Max have co-written written two books to share with others what it's like to grow up with autistic siblings.
Join us for part one of this two part conversation, as we meet Becky and Max and find out more about Daisy, Georgie-Rose and family life.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 17 - Highlights: Understanding Your Child's World
2026/03/08
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In this special recap episode of Autism Unpacked, we look back at some of the standout moments so far from series two, helping parents to better understand the world of their autistic child.
We revisit some powerful conversations on emotional based school avoidance, autism and eating disorders, mental health, maths anxiety and not fogetting a dash of myth-busting.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on key insights, lived experience and thought-provoking perspectives, with a focus on practical advice and real-life strategies.
This is a chance to catch up on the standout moments from the series so far. And if you enjoy these tasters, revisit our previous episodes to hear in full the conversations that matter.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 16 - Unpacking Maths Anxiety and Autism
2026/02/01
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Maths is everywhere — but for many young people, it can be one of the biggest sources of stress. In this episode, Rosie explores maths anxiety, why maths can feel so overwhelming for many, and why autistic children in particular may experience heightened stress, avoidance or anxiety around maths.
We're joined by James Birchenough, Educational Quality Advisor for Maths at Options Autism, who explains why the way maths is taught can make a huge difference to confidence, emotional safety and how capable children feel.
With a big emphasis on reassurance, advise, real-world ideas and strategies to support, Rosie and James cover:
Why maths anxiety is so common among autistic learnersHow traditional teaching approaches can unintentionally increase stressThe importance of practical, real-life maths experiencesSome hands-on ways schools and families can help children develop a more positive relationship with maths
And if you'd like to find out more or you're looking for further support and advice, the links below may be helpful:
British Dyslexia Association (2025), What Is Dyscalculia, https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyscalculia
Dyscalculia Network (2024), What Is Dyscalculia, https://dyscalculianetwork.com/what-is-dyscalculia/
National Numeracy (2025), What Is Maths Anxiety?, https://www.nationalnumeracy.org.uk/what-issue/about-maths-anxiety
The Maths Anxiety Trust (2024), https://mathsanxietytrust.com/
Third Space Learning (2025), Understanding Maths Anxiety At School And What Teachers and Parents Can Do To Support Children, https://thirdspacelearning.com/blog/understanding-maths-anxiety/
Joint Counsil for Qualifications (JCQ): https://www.jcq.org.uk/exams-office/access-arrangements-and-special-consideration/
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 15 - Autism Myth-Busting, Decoding Fact from Fiction
2026/01/04
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“Everyone’s a little bit autistic.”
“Autistic people don’t feel empathy.”
These phrases can be confusing, frustrating and even hurtful, particularly if you're a parent of an autistic child. While they’re often said casually, they can shape how autistic individuals are understood and supported at home, in school and beyond.
This episode is all about clearing the air, as we bust the most common myths about autism and explain what autism really is, and what it isn’t.
To help unpack the truth, we're joined by Dr Freya Spicer White, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Chief Clinical Officer at Options Autism. Together, we explore empathy, identity and support, helping parents cut through misinformation and feel more confident in advocating for their child.
This is an essential listen for anyone who wants to better understand autism beyond the stereotypes.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 14 - Unseen Overload - The Impact of Autistic Trauma on Mental Health
2025/12/01
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This episode of Autism Unpacked focuses on a subject that is often overlooked - the impact of autistic trauma and mental health on young people.
We welcome consultant clinical pschologist and Head of Trauma Informed Practice at Options Austism, Dr Leanne Johnson, and together we unpack key mental health challenges like burnout and anxiety.
And importantly, we look at how parents can recognise, understand and support their child, as well as practical strategies to help them care for their own wellbeing.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 13 Part 2 - Helping Families Navigate Emotionally Based School Avoidance
2025/11/09
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Welcome to the second part of our focus on Emotionally Based School Avoidance, or EBSA.
Anxiety works both ways and supporting a child struggling with EBSA can be incredibly challenging for parents also. Here, we pick up this empowering conversation with our experts - Dr Tina Rae and Dr Leanne Johnson - exploring strategies for parents to help their young person and to also help cope with the pressures they are feeling.
And if you find this conversation helpful, you could also check out the Not Fine In School Network https://notfineinschool.co.uk/, and Dr Tina Rae's EBSA resources, which can be found here https://bit.ly/43eV2Gb with a 10% discount if you use the code Tina10
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 13 Part 1 - Not Just Skipping - Understanding Emotionally Based School Avoidance
2025/11/02
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Welcome to the first of two episodes on Emotionally Based School Avoidance - or EBSA - a subject that many families find challenging.
We find out why EBSA is so often misunderstood as truancy or refusal, when in fact it's about anxiety and emotional distress, making school feel overwhelming or even impossible for so many young people.
We're joined by two amazing experts: Dr Tina Rae, an educational and child psychologist, passionate about helping children and parents; and Dr Leanne Johnson, a consultant clincial psychologist and Head of Trauma Informed Practice.
In this empowering pod we explore:
What EBSA isThe causes of EBSAWhat parents and schools can do to support young people struggling with EBSAFor further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 12 - Food Struggles Uncovered - Feeding Disorder Diagnosis and Parent Support
2025/10/05
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In this episode, Rosie is joined by Natalie Raven Morris, CEO fo the Feeding Trust, as they talk about paediatric feeding and eating disorders.
Together they uncover more about the feeding differencies and difficulties that some young people may experience, and discuss in detail how to get a diagnosis and different support strategies to help parents and families with this challenging issue.
This episode is packed full with advice, hope and reassurance for families, and for those looing for further support, please visit:
https://www.optionsautism.co.uk/support-advice/feeding-and-eating-disorders/
https://www.feedingtrust.org/
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Episode 11 - Beyond Picky - Understanding Feeding and Eating Disorders
2025/09/07
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We open series two with a topic that comes up a lot, but which is still so often misunderstood - feeding and eating disorders in chilren, particularly autistic young people.
This isn't just about 'fussy eating'.
In this episode, we're delighted to be joined by Natalie Raven Morris, co-founder and CEO of The Feeding Trust. Natalie brings a wealth of experience and a deep personal passion for helping families navigate the tricky world of paediatric feeding and eating disorders.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Series 2 Trailer
2025/08/18
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Autism Unpacked is a refreshingly real podcast that dives into what it really means to be autistic in today’s world. In series 1, we unpacked everything from relationships and parenting to diagnosis, myths, sleep, and so much more.
And the good news? We're back for more with a brand-new series, launching in September, shining a light on eating and feeding disorders, school avoidance, mental health, and more.
This isn’t just another autism podcast - it’s a vibrant mix of expert advice, practical tips, and honest, heart-warming stories.
For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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