In this episode of The Taking Good Care Podcast, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave continue the conversation on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), shifting their focus from assessment to treatment and support. While ASD is not something to be “cured,” there are many effective strategies and accommodations that can make a meaningful difference in daily life.

Together, they explore practical approaches to managing challenging behaviours and supporting individuals with ASD across different settings. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or someone navigating life on the spectrum, this episode offers thoughtful insights and actionable tips you won’t want to miss.

Following last episode’s introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take the conversation further with a deeper look at how ASD is actually diagnosed. In this episode, they explore the key factors and clinical variables that determine whether a child or adult meets the diagnostic criteria. Along the way, they discuss why diagnostic accuracy matters, what can happen when assessments miss the mark, and how clinicians can ensure individuals receive the most appropriate evaluation and care.

Whether you’re a psychology student, a parent, a professional, or simply curious to learn more about ASD, this episode offers an insightful and accessible look at the complexities behind getting the diagnosis right.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurodiversity are widely discussed, and at times politically charged topics in today’s cultural landscape. In this first installment of a special multi-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take a thoughtful, in-depth look at ASD from multiple angles.

Together, they explore the history of the diagnosis, unpack the diagnostic criteria, and examine ongoing debates surrounding prevalence and epidemiology. With clarity and balance, they address key controversies while grounding the conversation in research, clinical insight, and real-world experience.

Whether you’re an emerging mental health professional, an educator, a parent, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of autism and neurodiversity, this episode lays an essential foundation you won’t want to miss.

What exactly does a pediatric occupational therapist do and how do they work alongside psychologists to support kids?

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave chat with Venita Rajput and Kassandra Rago, the co-founders of Mighty OT’s. They break down how occupational therapy supports developing children, covering everything from emotional regulation and sensory sensitivities to feeding struggles and day-to-day routines.

It’s an insightful conversation about teamwork, child development, and helping families feel empowered every step of the way.

You can find out more about Mighty OT's at www.mightyots.ca and you can also follow them on Instagram @mightyots

Student mental health is shaped by a network of influences including students themselves, caregivers, teachers, and school leaders. Everyone plays a vital role. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with veteran Toronto principal, Vince Galea, to explore how schools can better support student well-being. Together, they examine why resilience rarely develops in isolation and why a collective, community-based approach is essential. The conversation highlights the critical need to equip educators with practical tools and strategies, and underscores how fostering a positive, respectful school culture benefits not only students, but teachers as well.

Vince Galea is very active on social media and can be found @thefriendlyprincipal on Instagram.

How much does culture influence what happens in therapy, often without us realizing it? In part two of this two part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive deeper into the powerful, and often overlooked, role culture plays in the therapy room. From therapists’ personal values and hidden biases to the messages conveyed by an office space, and even how clients choose their therapists, this episode offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at the therapeutic relationship. Through compelling personal stories and real-world insights, the psychologists reveal why cultural awareness isn’t optional - it is essential for meaningful, effective care.

Culture is everywhere! It shapes our beliefs, behaviours, and sense of self in ways we don’t always notice. In the first of this two-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take a deep dive into what culture is and how it influences our psychological development. From early childhood experiences to navigating today’s political climate, they explore how cultural forces impact us all. Along the way, the conversation gets candid, as both psychologists reflect on their own biases and perspectives, setting the stage for part two’s discussion on culture in the therapy room.

Many men still hesitate to talk openly about their mental health, fearing they’ll be seen as “weak” or overly vulnerable. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with registered psychologist, Nathan Foerger, for an honest conversation about the transformative power of group therapy for men. Together, they explore what makes a strong therapeutic group: 1) compassionate leadership, 2) psychological safety, and 3) genuinely supportive peers. The discussion also unpacks some of the biggest challenges facing men today, including loneliness, lack of intimacy, and the pressure to live up to rigid societal expectations. This episode offers a powerful introduction to group therapy and a nuanced look at the realities of men’s mental health.