Challenging neuronormativity: Why the old rules don't fit with Caitlin Hughes

We don’t need to follow the “old rules” and this episode will explain why.

In this thought-provoking episode, we’re joined by Caitlin Hughes, a multi-exceptional (Autistic, ADHD, Gifted) Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and founder of Cathartic Collaborations.

We unpack the hidden impact of neuronormativity, the unspoken social rules that define what’s “acceptable” and what gets labelled as “different”.

Caitlin shares both lived experience and deep professional insight as we explore how outdated ideas around communication, behaviour and productivity harm neurodivergent people, and what it looks like to rebuild systems through a neuroaffirming lens.

We also explore masking, systemic exclusion, school trauma, therapy done differently, and the big (and small) ways we can create safer, more inclusive spaces where neurodivergent people can be seen, supported, and self-defined.

✨ Try Understanding Zoe free for 7 days – the neuroaffirming app turning every report, observation and meltdown into an actionable next step.

KEY TAKEAWAYS 👇

🧠 Neuronormativity isn’t neutral.

🧠 The “old rules” are rooted in compliance and control.

🧠 Masking may look like success, but it comes at a huge cost.

🧠 Neuroaffirming practice starts with curiosity, not correction.

🧠 Small actions create big ripples. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, therapist or policymaker, you can help dismantle neuronormativity one inclusive decision at a time.

💛 Love what you heard? Subscribe, share with your care village, and leave us a review so more families can find this support.

🔗 Try Understanding Zoe for free today

ABOUT THE GUEST 👇

Caitlin Hughes (she/they) is a multi-exceptional (Autistic, ADHD, Gifted) Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and the founder of Cathartic Collaborations, a neuroaffirming private practice based on Meanjin (Brisbane).

Caitlin is also a PhD candidate at QUT, researching neuroaffirming mental health care for autistic adults. They offer somatic support, clinical supervision, and neurodiversity-affirming education across sectors.

They also co-host the Divergent Dialogues podcast, a powerful mix of research, lived experience, and advocacy for neurodivergent wellbeing.

🌐 www.catharticcollaborations.com.au
🎙️ Divergent Dialogues Podcast
📸 Instagram: @cathartic.collaborations
📘 Facebook: Cathartic Collaborations
🎵 TikTok: @cathartic.collaborations
💼 LinkedIn: Caitlin Hughes

ABOUT THE HOST 👇

Laetitia Andrac (Autistic & ADHDer) is an award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker, and podcast host.

She is the bestselling author of Light It: How to Trust Your Intuition and Build a Thriving Business. With over 15 years of experience in consulting, strategy, and innovation, Laetitia has worked with industry leaders like Deloitte and Telstra.

Inspired by my journey as a neurodivergent parent, she co-founded Understanding Zoe, an AI-driven solution dedicated to supporting caregivers of neurodivergent children.

Her passion is creating a more neuroinclusive world, where everyone can thrive—whether in their homes, communities, or workplaces.