Pause Purpose Play

In this episode of the Pauses Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas speaks with Matt Buff, founder of the wellbeing and supplement brand Get Dopa. They discuss Matt’s journey through understanding and managing his ADHD, overcoming perfectionism, and the importance of self-compassion. Matt shares his experience of burning out in a high-pressure corporate job, discovering his ADHD, and subsequently creating a brand to support busy minds. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating pauses, purpose, and play into one’s life, maintaining self-awareness, the role of supplements in enhancing daily function, and the significance of building a balanced and fulfilling life. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their strengths and practice self-compassion, creating a life that suits their unique needs.

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, clinical psychologist Michaela Thomas discusses the pressure and myths surrounding the 'New Year, New Me' mentality. Michaela advocates for setting compassionate, intention-driven goals instead of rigid, outcome-based resolutions which can often lead to self-criticism and burnout. She explains the importance of being gentle and realistic, especially for neurodivergent individuals, and suggests focusing on manageable, long-term changes. Michaela also introduces her online course, the Compassionate Couple, and shares a special discount offer in honor of her birthday.

In this episode of the Pauses Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas discusses the challenges and tensions that arise during festive holidays and offers advice on maintaining compassion and connection with partners, especially in neurodivergent families. Michaela highlights the importance of self-compassion, meeting emotional needs, and understanding the dynamics of relationships. She talks about her book, 'The Lasting Connection,' and its accompanying online course, 'The Compassionate Couple,' which aims to help couples strengthen their bond. Michaela reflects on the book's release during the COVID-19 lockdown and expresses her desire to revive its message by engaging in more public discussions and events. She concludes with a special Christmas discount code for the online course.

Already feeling stretched by the festive season? This episode is your invitation to slow down and protect your energy. In this solo episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, Clinical Psychologist Michaela Thomas explores why the holiday season can feel so overwhelming and draining, especially for women with busy brains, ADHD traits, or perfectionistic tendencies - and how to move through it with more intention and self-compassion. Michaela introduces the idea of balancing what drains you with what sustains you, and shares how using a visual schedule can help you manage energy more realistically, plan ahead, and reduce burnout. Rather than striving for a “perfect” Christmas, this episode encourages lowering expectations, setting boundaries, and prioritising rest before you reach exhaustion. Michaela also shares more about Golden, her immersive in-person experience for high-achieving ADHD women who need space to pause and recharge, reconnecting with their purpose and values. The episode ends with little permission pieces in reflections from women who attended the previous Golden event - gentle reminders that you’re not alone and that slowing down is allowed. ✨ In this episode: Why the festive season can feel especially draining for busy, ADHD brains The concept of drains vs. sustains and why energy matters more than time Using a visual schedule to plan with compassion Letting go of perfection and choosing rest Permission slips from other women just like you Join the next Golden event on the 30th of January in London, grab your ticket here: https://thethomasconnection.thrivecart.com/golden-in-person-event-jan-2026/ 

If you’ve been wondering what actually happens in an ADHD assessment, or you’re thinking about booking one but feel unsure about the process, this solo episode walks you through everything you need to know.    Michaela breaks down what to expect before, during and after an adult ADHD assessment, based on her clinical process at her psychology practice The Thomas Connection.   Whether you’re exploring a diagnosis for yourself or supporting someone you care about, this episode brings clarity, reassurance and practical guidance.   In this episode you’ll learn: • What happens before the assessment  Why a clarity call can help you feel safe and informed, what forms you’ll complete, and how childhood history fits into the picture. • What the initial screening session is really for  How clinicians decide whether full ADHD assessment is appropriate, and why ruling in or out overlapping conditions is essential. • What a full diagnostic assessment looks like  A gentle, structured interview process (usually spread over a month if virtually, or all in one day if choosing the home retreat option in Michaela's home), how your life story is explored, and why input from someone who knew you as a child can be helpful. • What gets assessed — and what doesn’t  The difference between ADHD traits, burnout, anxiety and perfectionism…and why good clinicians never diagnose from a single questionnaire. • What happens after the assessment  What your diagnostic report includes, how to share it with your GP for medication or shared care, and what support options like therapy, coaching or community groups look like whether you receive an ADHD diagnosis or not. • Why a thoughtful assessment matters  How a proper evaluation offers clarity, validation, compassion and a personalised plan, and a lens to see yourself through rather than just a label.   •  Who this episode is for: Anyone curious about ADHD assessment, already booked in for one, or supporting a partner, friend or colleague through the process.   Book an ADHD assessment clarity call with Michaela here: https://tidycal.com/michaela-thomas/adhd-assessment-clarity-call