In this episode of the DIVERG. Podcast, we’re joined by Brian Middleton, BCBA and leader in values-driven behavior support. Brian walks us through his journey of integrating the ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) framework into his practice, offering a powerful alternative to compliance-based behavior plans.

Together, we explore how ACT shifts the conversation from “fixing behavior” to helping individuals live in alignment with their values, even in the face of difficult thoughts or emotions. Brian shares how this approach fosters autonomy, emotional resilience, and connection—especially for neurodivergent kids whose needs are often misunderstood in traditional systems.

This episode is an invitation to reimagine support—not as control, but as collaboration rooted in dignity, consent, and purpose.

In this episode, we cover:

 * An introduction to the ACT Framework and how it applies to neurodivergent support
 * The role of language, acceptance, and psychological flexibility in long-term growth
 * Practical strategies for parents and practitioners who want to shift their approach

Episode Resources:

Behavior Analysis & Foundational Texts

 * The Four Free-Operant Freedoms [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2733618/]
 * Coercion and Its Fallout
 * Tactics of Scientific Research: Evaluating Experimental Data in Psychology
 * Executive Function: What They Are, How They Work, and Why They Evolved [https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functions-What-They-Evolved/dp/146250535X]
 * Executive Functioning Workbook for Kids [https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functioning-Workbook-Kids/dp/164876306X]

ACT-Based Resources for Adolescents

 * The Thriving Adolescent
 * Stuff That Sucks
 * Your Life, Your Way

ACT Resources for Children and Behavior Analysts

 * ACT for Adolescents
 * The ACT Workbook for Kids [https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Workbook-Kids-Activities-Emotional/dp/1684037379]
 * ACT and Applied Behavior Analysis [https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Applied-Behavior-Analysis-Acceptance/dp/B0CZ7L7G43]

Additional ACT-Related Resources

 * Superhero Therapy [https://www.amazon.com/Superhero-Therapy-Mindfulness-Anxiety-Depression/dp/1684030331]
 * It Shouldn't Be This Way [https://www.amazon.com/Shouldnt-Be-This-Way-Learning/dp/1472145984]

•  • Super-Women: Superhero Therapy for Women Battling Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma [https://www.amazon.com/Super-Women-Superhero-Therapy-Battling-Depression/dp/1684037522]

Episode 18: Radical Behaviorism & Radical Accountability: A nuanced conversation about ABA, ethics and how we move forward. (Part 3) 

In this episode of the DIVERG. Podcast, we’re joined by Brian Middleton, BCBA and leader in values-driven behavior support. Brian walks us through his journey of integrating the ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) framework into his practice, offering a powerful alternative to compliance-based behavior plans.

Together, we explore how ACT shifts the conversation from “fixing behavior” to helping individuals live in alignment with their values, even in the face of difficult thoughts or emotions. Brian shares how this approach fosters autonomy, emotional resilience, and connection—especially for neurodivergent kids whose needs are often misunderstood in traditional systems.

This episode is an invitation to reimagine support—not as control, but as collaboration rooted in dignity, consent, and purpose.

In this episode, we cover:

 * An introduction to the ACT Framework and how it applies to neurodivergent support
 * The role of language, acceptance, and psychological flexibility in long-term growth
 * Practical strategies for parents and practitioners who want to shift their approach

Episode Resources:

Behavior Analysis & Foundational Texts

 * The Four Free-Operant Freedoms [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2733618/]
 * Coercion and Its Fallout 
 * Tactics of Scientific Research: Evaluating Experimental Data in Psychology
 * Executive Function: What They Are, How They Work, and Why They Evolved [https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functions-What-They-Evolved/dp/146250535X]
 * Executive Functioning Workbook for Kids [https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functioning-Workbook-Kids/dp/164876306X]

ACT-Based Resources for Adolescents

 * The Thriving Adolescent
 * Stuff That Sucks
 * Your Life, Your Way

ACT Resources for Children and Behavior Analysts

 * ACT for Adolescents
 * The ACT Workbook for Kids [https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Workbook-Kids-Activities-Emotional/dp/1684037379]
 * ACT and Applied Behavior Analysis [https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Applied-Behavior-Analysis-Acceptance/dp/B0CZ7L7G43]

Additional ACT-Related Resources

 * Superhero Therapy [https://www.amazon.com/Superhero-Therapy-Mindfulness-Anxiety-Depression/dp/1684030331]
 * It Shouldn't Be This Way [https://www.amazon.com/Shouldnt-Be-This-Way-Learning/dp/1472145984]
 * Super-Women: Superhero Therapy for Women Battling Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma [https://www.amazon.com/Super-Women-Superhero-Therapy-Battling-Depression/dp/1684037522]

Episode 18: Radical Behaviorism & Radical Accountability: A nuanced conversation about ABA,  ethics and how we move forward. (Part 3) 

In this very special episode of The DIVERG. Podcast, we’re hosting our first-ever panel—and the topic is one close to our hearts: Neuroaffirming Parenting.

Joining us today are three incredible parents and advocates who are leading voices in this space:

Leila Toigo (@SprinkledSpectrum [https://www.instagram.com/sprinkledspectrum]) – Mother to an autistic daughter and passionate advocate for centering autistic voices in how we approach parenting and support.

David Coe (@DaDavidCoe [https://www.instagram.com/dadavidcoe]) – Father to Asher and served as a board member of his local Regional Center in California. David brings a grounded, fatherhood-forward perspective to the conversation.

Elena Croy (@AtHerOwnPace [https://www.instagram.com/atherownpace]) – Writer, advocate, and mom to a neurodivergent son and a daughter with Down syndrome. Elena works closely with NDSS, fighting for better resources and recognition for families in the disability community.

This panel is honest, hopeful, and full of life. Whether you’re deep in the journey or just starting out, you’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and a little less alone.

Tune in for connection, community, and real-talk about what it means to parent with intention, empathy, and respect for neurodivergence.

EPISODE 17: Parenting as Advocacy: The Radical, Reflective  Work of Raising Neurodivergent Kids  

Dr. Karyn Harvey [https://www.karynharvey.org/] Ph.D. and Author of Positive Identity Development

In this powerful episode of The DIVERG. Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Karyn Harvey—a renowned psychologist, author, and leading voice in trauma-informed care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With over 35 years of clinical experience, Dr. Harvey has dedicated her career to shifting the way we think about disability, trauma, and healing.

Together, we explore what it really means to center dignity in support systems, why trauma—not disability—is often at the root of challenging behavior, and how practitioners, families, and educators can create environments that foster true connection and emotional safety.

Dr. Harvey’s work challenges us to move beyond behavior-focused interventions and instead focus on identity, community, and the basic human right to a meaningful life. Whether you're a parent, professional, or advocate, this conversation will leave you with a deeper understanding of how trauma-informed, person-centered care can change lives.

Dr Harvey’s Website [https://karynharvey.org/professional-services.html]
The Alliance Against Seclusion & Restraint [https://endseclusion.org/]

Disability Isn’t the Problem—Trauma Is: Dignity, Disability and Trauma-Informed Practices

Sam Drezin, Founder & Executive Director of Changing Perspectives

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sam Drazin, educator, speaker, and founder of Changing Perspectives—a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering social-emotional learning (SEL) and promoting inclusive school communities. Sam shares his personal journey and the pivotal experiences that led him to create Changing Perspectives, as well as insights into why SEL and disability awareness are critical to creating compassionate, equitable learning environments.

We dive into how Changing Perspectives helps schools integrate empathy-building programs, the importance of embracing diversity in all its forms, and actionable ways educators and communities can champion inclusion. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or advocate, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to rethink how we nurture understanding and belonging in our schools—and beyond.

Changing Perspectives Website [https://changingperspectivesnow.org/]
Social-Emotional Learning and Disability Awareness Curriculum  [https://changingperspectivesnow.org/curriculum/]

Episode 15: What’s Good For One Is Good For All: A Practical Look At Inclusion 

Join us for an engaging episode featuring Brian Middleton, the Bearded Behaviorist, as we delve into the heart of Radical Behaviorism and Radical Accountability. In this conversation, Brian unpacks the evolving landscape of ABA, explores pressing ethical challenges, and offers fresh perspectives on how the field can move forward with renewed accountability. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to behavior analysis, this episode promises insightful dialogue, innovative ideas, and a touch of Brian’s signature wit. Tune in to rethink the future of ABA, ethics, and transformative accountability.

Episode 14: Radical Behaviorism & Radical Accountability: A nuanced conversation about ABA, ethics and how we move forward.

Marge Blanc, M. A., CC C-SLP and Author of Natural Language Acquisition

Episode 13: Embracing the WHOLE Voice: How Natural Language Acquisition Supports Autistic Language Development

Marge Blanc, M. A., CC C-SLP and Author of Natural Language Acquisition

In this special Autism Acceptance Month episode, I’m honored to share a conversation with the incredible Marge Blanc, Speech-Language Pathologist and author of Natural Language Acquisition: On the Journey with Echolalia.

Marge’s work has been transformational for my family, opening up a whole new understanding of how autistic kids acquire and use language—especially those who are Gestalt Language Processors.

We talk about what it really means to “embrace the whole voice,” how echolalia is meaningful, and how Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) provides a compassionate, neuroaffirming framework for supporting language development.

This episode is just the beginning—a gateway into the Total Communication movement, where scripts, AAC, gestures, intonation, and every form of authentic communication is celebrated and supported.

Whether you're a parent, therapist, educator, or simply curious about how to support autistic communication in respectful and empowering ways, this episode is for you.

Resources + Links:

 * Marge Blanc’s Website (Communication Development Center):
   https://www.communicationdevelopmentcenter.com [https://www.communicationdevelopmentcenter.com/]
 * Natural Language Acquisition Book by Marge Blanc:
   https://www.communicationdevelopmentcenter.com/nla-book
 * Uniquely Human by Dr. Barry Prizant:
   https://www.barryprizant.com/uniquely-human
 * Ali Battye’s New Book – My Child is Gestalt Language Processor: A Parent’s Guide to NLA [https://www.routledge.com/Gestalt-Language-Processing-Supporting-Autistic-and-Neurodivergent-Children-with-Natural-Language-Acquisition/Battye/p/book/9781032716992?_ga=1311019044.1741984601&_gl=1%2A14ogk7g%2A_ga%2AMTMxMTAxOTA0NC4xNzQxOTg0NjAx%2A_ga_0HYE8YG0M6%2AMTc0MzU2MDA0Mi4yLjAuMTc0MzU2MDA0Mi4wLjAuMA.]
 * Affect Autism Blog & Podcast (DIR/Floortime & Gestalt Language) [https://affectautism.com/2024/02/16/glp/]

Additional Courses: 

 * Meaningful Speech (NLA Courses & Parent Resources):
   https://www.meaningfulspeech.com [https://www.meaningfulspeech.com/]
 * Natural Communication
   https://naturalcommunication.com/  [https://naturalcommunication.com/]
 * Gestalt Language Processing An Introduction
   https://www.uncleft.com/courses/Gestalt-Language-Processing-An-Introduction-1715581721243-6641b3198993f577c539bca8
 * Northern Speech Services
   NLA Level 1 Course: Linguistics of Echolalia in Language Development [https://www.northernspeech.com/speech-language-acquisition/natural-language-acquisition-in-autism-echolalia-to-self-generated-language-level-1/]
   
   

Dr. Alicia A. Broderick, Professor of Education

In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Dr. Alicia A. Broderick to unpack how branding, capitalism, and cultural narratives have shaped our modern understanding of autism. Dr. Broderick, a professor of education and a leading voice in critical disability studies, challenges us to reconsider how autism has been constructed in public discourse—and who benefits from those constructions.

We explore why it's vital to move beyond surface-level inclusion rhetoric and start asking deeper questions about the systems we're participating in. What if autism isn’t a “problem” to be solved but a neurotype to be understood? What if the way we talk about autism is more about marketing than truth?

This conversation is equal parts grounding and radical, rooted in academic rigor but fully accessible to anyone willing to reexamine their assumptions. Whether you're a parent, educator, practitioner, or just someone curious about how narratives shape lived experience—this episode will leave you with more questions, and the courage to start asking them.

The Autism Industrial Complex [https://www.amazon.com/Autism-Industrial-Complex-Marketing-Investment/dp/1975501853]
Raising Awareness of the AIC [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fxzfuvuek4&t=336s]

Episode 12: Moving Beyond Rhetoric: How Branding and Capitalism Shaped Autism as We Know It

with Corinne G. Catalano, PhD, IMH-E®, Montclair State University

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Corrine Catalano joins us to talk about what truly makes early childhood education transformative: inclusion, intention, and a spark of curiosity. We explore how high-quality, inclusive preschool programs create long-term educational success for children with disabilities—when we meet kids where they are and build from their strengths.

Dr. Catalano breaks down the tiers of support and how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) creates accessible environments where every child can thrive. We also dig into developmentally based approaches that honor children’s natural interests, helping them grow and engage without the need for bribes or compliance-based systems.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes that all children deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated from the start.

Just Give Them The Whale [https://www.amazon.com/Just-Give-Him-Whale-Fascinations/dp/1557669600]

Dr. Corinne Catalano [https://www.montclair.edu/profilepages/view_profile.php?username=catalanoc]


EPISODE 11: It’s The Spark: Embracing High Quality Inclusion In Early Childhood  

Inclusive of autistic and other neurodivergent voices, the DIVERG. podcast exists to bridge the gap between specialized knowledge and everyday parenting. We bring together forward-thinking experts who champion neuroaffirming and developmentally-based approaches to therapy, education, and life, while addressing the systemic challenges that families and individuals face in environments not designed for diverse minds. Insight by insight, we are building community and making space for all kinds of minds.

Kristi Bergeron

Shows