Autism Community Voices Michael Coles
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am currently the host of The Deep Dive Podcast, and do some Public Speaking work. I am also a Peer Mentor and Content Developer at Empower Autism, which I do on an Adhoc basis.
As I am monotropic, I can only do one thing at a time. My stress levels need to be kept at a minimum.
As I have had to resign from work because a huge Autistic Burnout episode back in 2023, and because both of my children are Autistic, I have had to relearn how to engage with my children, and to do things a lot differently to the Neurotypical population.
When did you first realise your brain worked differently?
When I was diagnosed PDD-NOS when I was 3, I knew I was different. I read books when I was 4, but within my working life, my “differences” were noticed by other people.
They said I was quite a bit odd.
Looking back, what is something you wish people had understood about you growing up?
A lot of things were misinterpreted by the general community, due to the diagnosis criteria being rather strict at the time.
I was interpreted as odd, didn’t have many friends at all, and wanted to be by myself a lot of time.
I was also bullied quite extensively throughout my life.
Has your Autism influenced the way you work, create or connect with others?
I am quite good with visual aids and friendly written communication, as this helps with understanding the situation.
A collaborative approach is very critical to my health and wellbeing.
We have situations that have not been collaborative, and this has resulted in increases of stress, and flight, fight or freeze reactions.
What has been one of the biggest challenges you've faced—and what has genuinely helped?
Non understanding or misunderstanding of people with Autism.
We have had some really supportive people, others not so much, and it’s really hard to trust people until you have worked with them a few times.
The Neuroaffirming approach has really worked for us, and our Therapists have been nothing but fantastic.
Was there a moment when you finally felt understood or accepted in the Autism Community?
I have met some really great Neurokin of late through conferences and online, that have really got me, and we have made some really good friends.
Before 2023, I really didn’t have anyone as friends, so it is really good that I can truly be myself with these people.
If someone is newly diagnosed, or a parent has just learned their child is neurodivergent—what would you want them to know?
There is some really great support for the Autism community now compared to 15 years ago, back then there was almost nothing.
Believe me, you will not be alone.
What does living authentically look like for you now?
This has been become really critical for me over the last 2 and half years.
Having neurokin that really gets me, respecting stress, anxiety and energy levels, and having a great team that can lighten the load when times gets tough is so critical.
What's one misconception about neurodivergence that you'd love to challenge?
That Autism and ADHD is over diagnosed.
It’s not.
There are tools, people and more knowledge out there than there was before, and it is more accessible.
There is only been recent acknowledgement by the National Autistic Society that Autism is hereditary, and it really is, and that needs to be acknowledged and respected.
Finish this sentence: "If my younger self could see me today, they would know..."
I am better now with the right support, knowledge and team to back me and my family. It is so critical.
Follow Michael at The Deep Dive - https://deepdiveau.net/
Watch Podcast on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDeepDiveAU
At The Neurodiverse Network, we’re a neuro-affirming psychology clinic based in Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, offering ADHD and Autism assessments, therapy, and NDIS supports for children, teens, and adults.
Our team of Gold Coast psychologists provide neurodiversity-affirming care, recognising and celebrating the strengths of every individual.
We provide a range of services including:
Gold Coast ADHD assessments and therapy for adults and children
Gold Coast Autism assessments and support across the lifespan
Individual counselling and emotional regulation support
NDIS psychology and functional capacity assessments
Neurodiverse support groups and online workshops
Our psychologists draw on lived experience and evidence-based approaches to create a space where neurodivergent people feel safe, understood, and empowered.
Whether you’re seeking a Clinical Psychologist on the Gold Coast, a neuro-affirming therapist near Burleigh Heads, or NDIS support, our team is here to help you navigate your journey with compassion and clarity.
Located in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast — close to Miami, Palm Beach, Robina, and Varsity Lakes.
Learn more about our neuro-affirming care or book an ADHD or Autism assessment here.
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