Welcome to My Brain Explained

Stack of psychology and neuroscience books on a desk, with a notebook, a pen, a mug with the words 'Understand, Empower, Thrive', and a potted plant nearby, in a cozy workspace with a framed quote on the wall.

My Brain Explained was created to make complex topics about the brain easier to understand. Through education, practical resources, and self-advocacy tools, my goal is to help individuals, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals better understand how the brain can influence the way we think, feel, function, and experience the world around us.

I believe education can make a difference. When we have the right information, we can feel more prepared to advocate for ourselves, support someone we love, or provide more informed and compassionate care to those we serve.

Topics explored here include Autism, ADHD, Executive Functioning, Dementia, Mindfulness and more are informed by research, lived experience, and more than a decade of clinical experience as a nurse.

I also offer educational consults for autism & dementia. Education consultations can either be 1:1, 2 person or in a group (max of 4 people).

Learn More

The Story Behind My Brain Explained

My Brain Explained was created to be a place where complex information feels a little less overwhelming. From autism and ADHD to dementia and beyond, my goal is to break down topics I’m passionate about into information that is easier to understand and apply to everyday life.

I believe that education is empowering. When we better understand what is happening and why, we can feel more prepared to advocate for ourselves, support the people we love, or care for those we serve professionally. My hope is simple: to help people feel informed, empowered, and better equipped to thrive.

Meet Ashley
Book cover with a background of a sunset over the ocean, featuring a stone bench on rocks in the foreground and the title 'A Brain Like Mine' by Ashley Zapata.
Book cover with a background of a sunset over the ocean, featuring a stone bench on rocks in the foreground and the title 'A Brain Like Mine' by Ashley Zapata.
Beach scene at sunset with sandy shoreline, gentle waves, and a colorful sky, featuring the text 'Dementia Care Journey' and 'A Supportive Guide for Families and Loved Ones' by Ashley Zapata.
Beach scene at sunset with sandy shoreline, gentle waves, and a colorful sky, featuring the text 'Dementia Care Journey' and 'A Supportive Guide for Families and Loved Ones' by Ashley Zapata.

Follow Me for More Information

An elderly woman with gray curly hair and a younger woman with brown hair sharing a tender moment, holding hands and smiling at each other, in a cozy living room with sunlight coming through the window, a potted lavender plant, a lit candle, and a mug with the word 'CARE' and a heart symbol on the table. The image promotes dementia care with text emphasizing compassion, understanding, dignity, and every step of the way.
An elderly woman with gray curly hair and a younger woman with brown hair sharing a tender moment, holding hands and smiling at each other, in a cozy living room with sunlight coming through the window, a potted lavender plant, a lit candle, and a mug with the word 'CARE' and a heart symbol on the table. The image promotes dementia care with text emphasizing compassion, understanding, dignity, and every step of the way.
A colorful illustration of a brain with one half in cool colors and the other in warm colors, surrounded by puzzle pieces and neural network graphics.
A colorful illustration of a brain with one half in cool colors and the other in warm colors, surrounded by puzzle pieces and neural network graphics.
A desk setup with books on psychology, neuroscience, and brain behavior, an open notebook with notes and a brain diagram, a pen, and a book titled 'A Brain Like Mine.' There are two framed diagrams of the human brain and a neuron, potted plants, a lit candle, a mug with motivational words, and sticky notes with inspirational quotes.
A woman in profile with a digital illustration of a brain, tree, and glowing light bulb over her head against a sunset background. The text reads "Understand. Empower. Thrive."

Have Questions?

For inquiries regarding my books, educational resources, collaborations, podcast interviews, or community presentations, please complete the form below. I look forward to connecting with you.