What if your identity is a tapestry of diverse threads, each contributing to a complex, vibrant whole? This episode invites you to uncover the intricate intersections of queerness and autism with our insightful guest, Danny, an autistic and queer existential coach. Danny’s journey of self-discovery as a queer person with a late autism diagnosis sheds light on the unique experiences of feeling like an outsider while embracing the strengths and challenges of neurodivergence. Through personal stories and reflections, we explore the nuanced overlap of queer and autistic identities, emphasizing the richness and authenticity they bring to life.
Our conversation delves into the intertwining nature of gender and sexual identities, examining concepts like “autigender” and the impact of societal pressures. With poignant narratives from the restrictive era of Section 28 in the UK, we discuss the complexities of navigating identity amidst homophobic bullying and varying societal acceptance. Danny shares their experiences in academia and coaching, highlighting the importance of visibility and representation for marginalized communities. By critically examining traditional perspectives and incorporating subjective experiences, we consider how educational programs can evolve to embrace inclusivity and diversity.
We also tackle broader societal issues, such as internalized stigma and the responsibilities we all share in fostering understanding and safety for marginalized groups. Danny guides us through the political landscape, exploring the potential for progressive change and the crucial role empathy plays in bridging divides. This episode challenges us to engage with diverse viewpoints and advocate for inclusive, meaningful dialogues. With a focus on promoting social change through empathy, we aim to inspire listeners to embrace a more inclusive and authentic approach to understanding identity.
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Danny is an existential coach and course leader for the MA in Existential Coaching at the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling where they are also Deputy Principal. Danny co-facilitates a monthly support group for LGBTQ+ autistic adults, and runs NHS training on the topics of neurodiversity and queer identities. In their coaching practice, they work predominantly with autistic and LGBTQ+ clients.
The Therapy and Social Change (TaSC) Network is a broad affiliation of people interested in exploring the interface between therapeutic ideas and practices and social justice perspectives and actions. We are interested both in the ways that counselling and psychotherapy can be practiced with social justice concerns in mind (for instance, tackling unconscious biases in the consulting room), and also in the ways that therapeutic principles and practices can be extended out to the wider social realm (for instance, developing social and emotional literacy in schools).
