Autism in Polyvagal Terms with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen (283)

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Oct 21, 2025

Dr. Sean Inderbitzen, an autistic psychotherapist and Mayo Clinic researcher, shares his journey and insights into autism and neurodiversity. He breaks down the evolution of autism diagnosis and discusses the term 'disorder' in relation to identity. The conversation pivots to the application of polyvagal theory, emphasizing safety and authentic connection in therapy for autistic individuals. Topics include neuroaffirming therapy, attachment patterns, and practical strategies for healthcare providers to better support neurodivergent clients.

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INSIGHT

History Shapes Autism Labels

Diagnostic categories for autism have shifted over decades, merging earlier subtypes into DSM-5's single spectrum.
Sean questions whether diverse presentations are truly one condition given historical changes.

INSIGHT

'Disorder' Is Complex And Contextual

The word 'disorder' is politically and personally loaded; Sean sees both harm and practical benefit in diagnostic labels.
He urges viewing autistic traits as fluid patterns (verbs) rather than fixed nouns.

ADVICE

How To Approach Self‑Diagnosis

Find a trusted clinician with enough training and a 'loyal opposition' who can discuss self-diagnosis and testing collaboratively.
If testing is inaccessible, consider self-diagnosis pragmatically for accommodations.

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This episode challenges what you thought you knew about autism, attachment, and empathy

Join Sue Marriott and Dr. Sean Inderbitzen – an autistic psychotherapist and advocate for neurodiversity – as he shares his powerful personal and professional journey in understanding autism. Together, they explore the evolution of autism diagnosis, the intersections between attachment and neurodivergence, and how polyvagal theory can both illuminate and complicate the autistic experience. Dr. Inderbitzen offers insights on self-diagnosis, identity formation, and what truly person-centered therapy looks like for autistic individuals. This conversation highlights the central role of trust, safety, and authentic connection in helping neurodivergent clients thrive.

“…Autism in Polyvagal Terms… is about giving people the tools they need, specifically giving therapists the tools they need to help autistic clients with a lens that really familiar with.” – Sean Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW

Time Stamps for Autism in Polyvagal Terms with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen (283)

01:43 Understanding Autism: A personal journey
03:38 Defining Autism: Perspectives and misconceptions
07:11 The evolution of autism diagnosis
11:31 The debate on ‘disorder’ in autism
24:59 Neuroaffirming Therapy: What does it mean?
31:21 Heart rate variability and autism
37:27 Understanding attachment and autism
41:24 The complexity of autism and parenting
44:09 Navigating the ethical quandaries in autism care
57:28 Upcoming events and future works

About our Guest – Sean M. Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW

Sean M. Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW, an autistic psychotherapist and researcher through Mayo Clinic Health System. He regularly trains healthcare professionals to be more confident when working with people on the spectrum.

Resources for Autism in Polyvagal Terms with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen (283)

Autism in Polyvagal Terms: New Possibilities and Interventions – Get your copy of his book, here!!

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