🧩 Unveiling Neurodivergent Strengths & "Dropped in a Maze: My Life on the Spectrum⁠" Book Talk 📕 with Sonia Chand and Favour Obasi-ike

Sonia Chand is a neurodivergent author, podcaster, and mental health expert. Sonia is also a licensed psychotherapist offering specialized coaching services designed to empower individuals to navigate social interactions, build meaningful connections, and foster self-confidence.

Whether supporting neurodivergent individuals with socio-emotional challenges or helping clients cultivate self-esteem, Sonia provides practical, personalized guidance to help clients thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Note from Sonia Chand

"Diagnosed with autism in my twenties, I turned my journey of self-discovery into a calling to help others embrace their unique paths.

Through my upcoming book, Dropped in a Maze: My Life on the Spectrum, and my podcast, I share stories and insights that challenge stereotypes and foster deeper understanding of neurodiversity.

My work is driven by a vision of a more inclusive world—one where neurodivergent habits, traits, and quirks are celebrated as strengths rather than seen as shortcomings. I believe our differences are not detours; they are the map to our truest selves."

Buy the Book Now => Dropped in a Maze: My Life on the Spectrum

Visit Sonia Krisha Chand's website here =>

About this podcast

Sonia discusses her book, which chronicles her experiences with high-functioning autism and navigating life's challenges. 

She shares her inspiration for writing, the positive reception the book has received, and its potential impact on understanding neurodiversity. Favour and Sonia also explore strategies for promoting the book, particularly through Pinterest and speaking engagements. 

They touch upon the themes of personal growth, advocacy, and using one's story to connect with and inspire others. 

Sonia also mentions her podcast, "On the Spectrum with Sonia," which further explores these topics and highlights stories of overcoming adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions with Sonia

1. What was the initial inspiration behind writing your book, "Dropped in a Maze"?

The inspiration struck in 2005 while attending a book fair in Chicago. Witnessing numerous authors openly sharing their personal stories, including experiences of war, trauma, and hardship, deeply moved me. It sparked the realization that my own story, navigating life after a late diagnosis of high-functioning autism, was also worth telling. As we were leaving, the thought, "Oh my god, I need to write my story. If they're telling their story, why can't I?" became the catalyst for "Dropped in a Maze."

2. What are some of the core themes explored in "Dropped in a Maze"?

The book delves into various aspects of navigating life with high-functioning autism, both before and after the diagnosis at age 20. Key themes include the feeling of being socially and emotionally lost ("like being blindfolded in the maze of life"), the challenges of social connection and peer rejection, struggles with sensory issues and change, and learning at a different pace (including failing second grade). It also explores navigating different types of friendships, including toxic ones, and the complexities of therapeuti