Dr. Leah Merle International Ltd

19/12/2025

Why Isn’t This Working?” When Sleep Advice Makes Parents Feel Like Failures

“When sleep advice doesn’t work, parents don’t question the advice—they question themselves.”

In this candid clip from Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle, Macall Gordon, M.A., explains how traditional, one-size-fits-all sleep guidance often leaves parents feeling confused, inadequate, and blamed—especially when their child’s temperament doesn’t match the advice.

This moment powerfully reframes the problem: when strategies fail, it’s not because parents are doing something wrong, but because the information may not fit the child in front of them. For parents, educators, and clinicians, this is a critical shift—from self-blame to understanding temperament, neurobiology, and individuality.

👉 Watch the full episode here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMvTwBAOSts&t=335s

18/12/2025

✨ Grateful Beyond Words ✨

This Christmas, my Level 6 student surprised me with these beautiful flowers as a gesture of appreciation for what we’ve covered together over the past months. I was genuinely moved.

Teaching at this level is not just about content delivery, it’s about ethical gatekeeping, clear boundaries, and responsibility to the profession, while also holding collaboration, curiosity, and relational learning at the centre. That balance matters deeply to me and this is my lifes work 🫶

I am profoundly passionate about this work and feel privileged to walk alongside students as they grow into reflective, competent, and ethical practitioners. Watching them move closer to graduation, with integrity, self-awareness, and courage, is one of the greatest honours of my professional life. LITERALLY ❤️

To this cohort: thank you for your commitment, your willingness to be challenged, and your trust in the process. 🌱
Moments like this remind me why I do what I do. THANK YOU 🙏

LeadershipInLearning Level6Counselling PrivilegeToTeach

17/12/2025

“Some children come into the world already switched on.”

In this powerful clip from *Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle*, Macall Gordon, M.A., shares the deeply personal story that led her to study infant sleep—raising a child who never slept, even from birth. This moment challenges the myth that all babies are wired the same and highlights how temperament and neurobiology shape sleep from day one.

For parents, educators, and clinicians, this insight reframes sleep struggles not as failure—but as biology. Some children are alert, sensitive, and deeply engaged with the world from the very beginning—and they deserve understanding, not blame.

👉 Watch the full episode here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMvTwBAOSts&t=335s

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11/12/2025

Neurodivergent people don’t lead “despite” their brains.

They lead because of them.

Across coaching, higher education, and clinical practice, I’ve witnessed a powerful truth:

When neurodivergent individuals step into leadership, innovation increases, teams become more adaptive, and psychological safety improves.

This isn’t anecdotal, it’s supported by research.

✔️ Nonlinear thinkers drive creative problem-solving

Neurodivergent cognitive patterns, particularly in ADHD and autism are associated with divergent thinking, rapid ideation, and unconventional solution pathways (White & Shah, 2006; Austin & Pisano, 2017).

✔️ Lived experience strengthens trauma-informed and inclusive leadership

Studies show that leaders attuned to emotional nuance, relational repair, and systemic inequities foster stronger team cohesion and improved outcomes (Brown, 2018).

✔️ Self-compassion predicts resilience and reduces burnout

For high-performing women with ADHD and masking histories, self-compassion is a protective factor that improves executive functioning and emotional regulation (Neff, 2011; Sibley et al., 2021).

✔️ Micro-action strategies support sustained leadership growth

Research in habit formation demonstrates that small, consistent actions produce more durable behavioural change than large, high-pressure goals (Fogg, 2019; Duckworth et al., 2011).

Here is the reframe:

You are not “too much,” “too intense,” or “too scattered.”

You are an untrained asset waiting to be optimised.

Leadership for neurodivergents isn’t about masking harder:

it’s about structuring your world around how your brain actually works.

If you take one evidence-based shift today, let it be this:

➡️ 10–15 minutes toward a goal

➡️ One courageous boundary

➡️ One streamlined decision

➡️ Permission to lead differently

“Your leadership is not the exception.

It is the evolution”.

— Dr. Leah Merle Batty-Hibbs

Podcast Host | Speaker | Neurodivergent Coach

Dr Leah Merle International Ltd

References (APA 7)

Austin, R. D., & Pisano, G. P. (2017). Neurodiversity as a competitive advantage. Harvard Business Review, 95(3), 96–103.

Brown, B. (2018). Dare to lead: Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts. Random House.

Duckworth, A. L., Kirby, T., Gollwitzer, A., & Oettingen, G. (2011). From fantasy to action: Mental contrasting and implementation intentions. European Journal of Social Psychology, 41(3), 404–413.

Fogg, B. J. (2019). Tiny habits: The small changes that change everything. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Neff, K. D. (2011). Self-compassion, self-esteem, and well-being. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 5(1), 1–12.

Sibley, M. H., et al. (2021). Emotional regulation and executive functioning in women with ADHD: Implications for adult functioning. Journal of Attention Disorders, 25(9), 1235–1247.

White, H. A., & Shah, P. (2006). Uninhibited imaginary processes: Creativity in adults with ADHD. Personality and Individual Differences, 40(6), 1121–1131.

01/12/2025

What Is the Link Between Temperament and Sleep in Infancy and Childhood?
🌟 Welcome to another episode of "Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle"! 🌟
🎙 Season: 02
🎙 Episode: 01
📅 Release Date: December 01, 2025
👥 Guest: Macall Gordon
____________________________________________

Why do some babies and children struggle so deeply with sleep—despite parents doing “everything right”?
In this powerful Season Two opening episode, Dr. Leah Merle sits down with researcher, speaker, and author Macall Gordon, M.A., to explore the complex and often misunderstood relationship between temperament, neurobiology, and sleep.

With more than 30 years dedicated to studying the science, misconceptions, and emotional realities of sleep training, Macall offers a transformative perspective on why traditional behaviorist approaches frequently fall short—especially for sensitive, alert, or “spirited” children.

Together, Dr. Leah and Macall explore:
✔️ How temperament shapes sleep from infancy through childhood
✔️ Why some children simply don’t respond to standard sleep training methods
✔️ The deep neurobiological differences in highly sensitive children
✔️ What “gentle sleep coaching” really means—and what it is not
✔️ How parents can support their children with compassion, attunement, and evidence-informed strategies
✔️ Why moving beyond behavior modification can transform family well-being

Whether you’re a parent navigating long nights, a clinician supporting families, or an educator helping children thrive, this conversation offers research-based insight and heartfelt reassurance:
Some children don’t fit the mold—and that truth deserves understanding, not blame.

🫖 So pour yourself a warm cup of tea and join Dr. Leah Merle for a grounded, honest, and deeply human conversation about sleep, sensitivity, and the emotional landscape of childhood development.

🔗 Learn more about Macall Gordon’s work:
www.littlelivewires.com
www.whywontyousleep.com

*Disclaimer:* The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional mental health counseling, therapy, or psychological care. If you are experiencing mental health issues or need support, please seek advice from a licensed mental health professional in your area. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please contact emergency services in your local area immediately.

🔗 Listen to our all episode here: https://www.teawiththeexperts.com/podcast

____________________________________________
*Stay Connected With Us*
🔵 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeaWithTheExperts
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drleahmerle
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/.leah.merle
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Website: https://www.teawiththeexperts.com

30/11/2025

🌙 COMING SOON — Season 2, Episode 1

Premieres December 1 at 9:00 PM

What Is the Link Between Temperament and Sleep in Infancy and Childhood?
Guest: Macall Gordon, M.A.

Why do some infants and children struggle so intensely with sleep—no matter what parents try?

In this upcoming episode of Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle, researcher and author Macall Gordon, M.A. joins Dr. Leah for a powerful, evidence-informed conversation that challenges the traditional narratives around sleep training.

Together, they explore:
• How temperament and neurobiology shape a child’s sleep patterns
• Why behaviorist models often fall short for sensitive or alert children
• What “gentle sleep coaching” truly means in practice
• How families can move beyond guilt, shame, or one-size-fits-all advice
• What compassionate, attuned, science-grounded support really looks like

Whether you’re a parent, clinician, educator, or simply someone who works with families, this episode offers deep insight into why some children “don’t fit the mold”—and how understanding that truth can transform the entire sleep experience.

🫖 Settle in with a warm cup of tea and join Dr. Leah for this honest and heartfelt Season 2 opening conversation.

👉 Subscribe and be the first to watch:
https://www.youtube.com/

Episode drops December 1 at 9:00 PM.
Stay tuned!

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31/10/2025

“The Missing Piece in Self-Care and Neurodivergence”

Most helping professionals know the importance of self-care, but very few of us were ever taught how to do it in a way that honors our culture, our nervous system, and our neurodivergence.

Too often, “self-care” becomes a checklist:

🕯️ Take a bath
📖 Read a book
🚶 Go for a walk

But what happens when those things don’t work,,because your exhaustion isn’t about effort, it’s about identity, belonging, and sensory safety?

As a trauma-informed clinician and educator, I’ve seen the same pattern for years:

• Brilliant neurodivergent women (and therapists) masking through burnout
• Compassionate practitioners giving endlessly until their own well-being becomes the ethical dilemma
• Cultures and systems that praise productivity but ignore collective and embodied healing

That’s why I’m creating two new spaces under Dr Leah Merle International: Dr. Leah’s Inner Circle:

🌿 1. Culturally Competent Self-Care (CPD)
A creative, trauma-informed training where self-care becomes an ethical and multicultural practice.
Rooted in the ADDRESSING model and somatic tools, this 3–6 hour CPD helps you move from “coping” to “reconnection.”

🌸 2. Culturally Appropriate Neurodivergent Support for Women
A 5-phase journey: From Masking to Magic, for women ready to unmask, rebuild, and thrive as their authentic selves.

Because real self-care isn’t surface-level,
it’s cultural, creative, and collective.

If this speaks to you (or someone you supervise or mentor), I’m opening a free 45-minute masterclass + 5-day micro-challenge in the coming weeks.
Let me know in the comments if you’d like the link when it goes live. 💬👇

28/10/2025

Welcome back to Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle — the What Is Series continues!

I’m Dr. Leah Merle — counselor educator, trauma-informed coach, and lifelong advocate for compassion, curiosity, and courage in how we live, work, and connect.

This season, we’re going even deeper — exploring how science, story, and soul come together in the human experience.

Join me as we unpack questions that shape how we heal and grow:
✨ What is Healing in a Neurodivergent World?
✨ What is the Link Between Temperament and Sleep?
✨ What is Burnout Recovery?
✨ What is Ethical AI in Mental Health?
✨ What is Collective Healing?
✨ What is Trauma-Informed Leadership?
✨ What is Culturally Responsive Care?

Each episode uncovers the human side of helping — where empathy meets evidence.

So, pour yourself something warm, settle in, and join me for Season 2 of Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle, where we keep asking the questions that matter most.

🎧 Available soon on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/

28/10/2025

Surviving vs. Thriving at Work:

I saw a quote that stopped me scrolling: "The world wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds, but that doesn’t mean we don’t belong in it."

As a neurodivergent woman and former C-Suite executive, I’ve spent years learning how to lead in systems that weren’t built for the way my brain works.

For a long time, I masked, pushing through sensory overwhelm, executive dysfunction, and burnout because “high performance” was the expectation. But what I’ve learned is this: masking might keep you safe, but it also keeps you small.

When I finally started leading as myself, with transparency about how I work best, everything shifted. My creativity returned. My energy stabilized. My work connections became more open and authentic, too.

Neurodivergence isn’t a weakness to hide. It’s a different operating system, one that brings innovation, empathy, and a deep capacity for pattern recognition and insight.

The future of leadership isn’t about conformity. It’s about curiosity, compassion, and creating space for difference. Here’s to workplaces where authenticity isn’t a risk, it’s the standard. 🫶

24/10/2025

A Personal Update: Coaching & Consulting Now Available Internationally 🌍

It’s been quite a journey and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve transitioned from providing counseling services in Washington State to offering international coaching and consulting through Dr. Leah Merle International.

✨ Transformational Coaching & Consulting for individuals, teams, and organizations seeking trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and values-aligned growth.

Here’s what that means:

💫 Coaching – For professionals and high-functioning neurodivergent individuals seeking clarity, purpose, and balance. Future-focused and action-oriented.

🏛️ Consulting – For educators, leaders, and organizations integrating trauma-informed or inclusive practices, strengthening programs, or cultivating conscious leadership.

To celebrate this next chapter (and honor past collaborations), I’m offering a special client rate - reach out directly for details: [email protected]

All sessions are online via Zoom and fully tailored to your goals, whether it’s mapping your next season, creating balance, or exploring your next professional evolution.

And if we haven’t connected in a while, I’d love to hear how you’re doing.

With warmth and gratitude,

Dr. Leah Merle
Founder | Dr. Leah Merle International

🎙️ Podcast: Tea with the Experts & Dr. Leah Merle:

https://www.youtube.com/

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Welcome to "Tea with the Experts & Dr. Leah Merle" – your go-to channel for mental health insights, empowerment, and inspiration! Hosted by Dr. Leah Merle, a passionate Counselor Educator and Therapist, we delve into topics like anxiety, trauma, resilience, and mindfulness with top experts. Starti...

21/10/2025

🎙️ Season 2 is coming! ☕️
Tea with the Experts and Dr. Leah Merle is brewing new conversations and I’m looking for guests to join me!

If you’re an expert, advocate, or have lived experience in topics like mental health, trauma-informed care, motherhood, leadership, or healing, I’d love to feature your story.

💛 Upcoming themes:
Sexual Health | Trauma | Emotional Resilience | Neurodivergence | Boundaries | Social Justice | Healing | Mindfulness | Legacy

Let’s connect over real talk, shared humanity, and cups of truth.
DM me or email: [email protected] if a topic speaks to you!

❤️

01/10/2025

Hi Folks 🌿

I’m reaching out with a small favor: I’m updating my website and would love to include a few testimonials. If you feel comfortable, would you be open to sharing a short sentence or two about your experience working with me (coaching sessions, supervision, teaching, workshops, or our collaboration as peers in consultation)?

It would really help others know what to expect and mean so much to me. You can just send me a private message or email me at: [email protected]

Thank you so much for considering it 💜

Warmly,
Leah