Empowering Neurodivergent Teens: Lawrence C Harris's Advice for Young People and their Parents

In this episode, Lawrence talks with Dr. Inyang Takon about what a late autism diagnosis looked like from the inside, why cultural and faith-community stigma can delay families getting support, four years of therapy and what actually changed for him, and the practical, no-jargon advice he now gives teens and parents navigating similar struggles. Diagnosed with autism at 15, bullied through school, and later dealing with an abusive parent, Lawrence knows what it feels like to be a teenager who's struggling and doesn't know why. Now 20, he's a public speaker who helps other teens and young adults work through mental health challenges and low self-worth — using everything he learned getting through his own. You'll learn: - What it's like to grow up autistic and undiagnosed, and why late diagnosis is common - How cultural and faith-based stigma can affect whether families seek assessment and support - The turning point that shifted Lawrence from surviving to healing - Simple, repeatable tools Lawrence teaches teens for managing difficult emotions - What parents can do to support a struggling teen — starting with their own wellbeing first **Timestamps** **00:00** — Lawrence’s story: autism, bullying, and mental health struggles **02:12** — Receiving an autism diagnosis at 15 and missing early support **12:13** — Family trauma, therapy, and beginning the recovery process **17:05** — The turning point: taking responsibility for getting better **21:34** — Practical steps for improving mental health one day at a time **30:42** — Why autistic young people may struggle to express their feelings **41:04** — Advice for parents supporting a child through a difficult period **About the guest:** Lawrence C. Harris is a youth speaker and author who helps students handle difficult emotions, make better decisions, and prepare for life after high school. He has spoken to thousands of students through school assemblies, workshops, conferences, podcasts, and virtual events. His presentations give students specific strategies for calming themselves during stressful situations, working through conflict, challenging negative beliefs, building confidence in their ability to succeed academically, and turning long-term goals into actionable plans.  He began sharing what he'd learned on YouTube at 16 and now speaks in schools and organizations across the country. **Resources:** **The Story of Your Life (Journal):** This 111-day journal is for anyone who feels stuck, overthinks everything, struggles with confidence, or knows they want more out of life but doesn’t know where to start.  https://www.lawrencecharris.com/shop/e5cbad63-f80b-42c1-885d-7d8d9982d8d5 **Connect with Lawrence:** Website: https://www.lawrencecharris.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawrencec.empowers  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lawrencecempowers TikTok: Lawrence C Empowers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-harris-8b0177324/ Speaking/podcast enquiries: [lawrence@lawrencecharris.com](mailto:lawrence@lawrencecharris.com) Support the show **Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon:** (**NEW!): https://braindiverse.org**  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals **Website:** www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents www.school-doctor.com **Questions?** Email Us at [eim@drtakon.com](mailto:eim@drtakon.com) Connect on LinkedIn Subscribe to Ask a Developmental Paediatrician  Read our SUBSTACK Articles for Short Simple Smart tips for parents, health professionals  Guest enquiries: podcast@drtakon.com