EP. 301: Understanding ADHD and Aphantasia with Dr. Chelsea Twiss

Imagine trying to visualize something in your mind, only to be met with a blank canvas. This is the reality for people with aphantasia, a condition where the mind"s eye struggles to conjure images. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I"m joined by Dr. Chelsea Twiss, a licensed psychologist from Colorado with an impressive background. She specializes in ADHD, women"s health, chronic pain, and relationships, and conducts psychological testing with a focus on adult ADHD. As if that wasn"t enough, she"s also a talented musician and artist, holding a doctorate in counseling psychology from New Mexico State University. Interestingly, Chelsea experiences hyperphantasia, the opposite of aphantasia, where mental imagery is remarkably vivid and detailed. Her research delves into the fascinating connections between ADHD, trauma, and brain function, particularly in relation to visual memory and identity. Our conversation explores how cognitive differences like aphantasia and hyperphantasia can significantly influence the ADHD experience, especially for women who often face unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Twiss and I discuss the ways in which ADHD can alter how we perceive and process visual information, highlighting the importance of understanding these nuances when diagnosing and treating ADHD, particularly in women who are frequently misunderstood and underdiagnosed. Resources: Website: https://www.drchelseatwisscounseling.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healththruconnection/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-twiss-755092196/ Eastwood & Holly - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iyNkncezKr61GX7GVMHvN?si=yN4oLcwFRwyVvKf4jKb9lQ Russick Smith - Cello Trees 🌲 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnNvvMVcy_Y ___ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.