ADHD Toolkit: The Default Mode Network Artwork

Real Over Ideal

Function, not perfection.

Hosted by occupational therapist and executive coach Vanessa Gorelkin, Real over Ideal cuts through the noise to bring you practical strategies for life in a stressful world.

All Episodes

Real Over Ideal

ADHD Toolkit: The Default Mode Network

February 12, 2026

0:00 | 14:06

Summary

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the Default Mode Network (DMN) of the brain, its role in neurodivergence, and how it influences rumination and creativity. She discusses the importance of understanding the DMN as a feature rather than a flaw, especially in the context of ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions. Vanessa offers practical strategies for managing rumination and building a healthier relationship with one's internal narrative, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and self-reflection.

Takeaways

The default mode network (DMN) is active during internal thought.
ADHD can cause the DMN to pull attention inward at inappropriate times.
Mind wandering is not inherently negative; it can foster creativity.
Therapy can help shift maladaptive DMN activity to more flexible processing.
Deliberate mind wandering can help manage ruminative thoughts.
Grounding techniques can help redirect focus from the DMN.
Labeling thoughts can interrupt rumination loops.
The DMN serves as both a wise narrator and a critic.
Understanding the DMN can improve mental health management.
Your brain's default mode is a meaning-making machine.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Default Mode Network
06:31 Navigating Neurodivergence and Rumination
09:28 Strategies for Managing the Default Mode Network

Click here to get in touch

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

realoveridealpod@gmail.com

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467