Autism and Grief (Episode 126)

An episode that gets right in the feels.

Please note that this episode contains discussions about, death, suicide and self harm.

In Episode 126 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we explore how grief extends beyond the loss of a person with guest Mady Snyder—an autistic, PDA, ADHD, OCD, and cPTSD-identified therapist—who specializes in exactly this kind of nuance. Why do we grieve the loss of routines, relationships, and expectations. She’s here to help us unpack the ways autistic grief is different—not broken, not less, just different.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We discuss the concept of ambiguous loss, the limitations of traditional grief models, and the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief.

• Mady and Angela breakdown the role of special interests in processing grief and the impact of grief on the nervous system.

• We share various coping strategies, the significance of personal rituals, the importance of understanding individual needs, and the impact of social invalidation on the grieving process.

• Additionally, we address the challenges of internalized ableism and the importance of recognizing diverse expressions of grief and why you can grieve a grilled-cheese sandwich.

Mady Synder's Bio

Mady Snyder, LMFT, is a neuroaffirming therapist in private practice in Pasadena. She specializes in Autism, PDA, parenting, and mixed neurotype relationships. She’s also a consultant and educator committed to building environments where neurodivergent people can actually thrive. Oh—and when she’s not doing all that? She’s singing to her cats.

Mady’s Website

Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief — from the concept of ambiguous loss to the limitations of traditional grief models. We also explore coping strategies and the significance of personal rituals, the challenges of internalized ableism, and the necessity of finding supportive resources that cater to neurodiverse individuals! Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Related Episodes:

Autistic Sleep Problems

Aging and Executive Function

Autistic Affirming Social Skills

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