Guest: Monica Reaves, LCSW-C, M.Ed.

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Join Corinne Zmoos in an illuminating episode as she welcomes guest Monica Reaves, a clinical social worker and special education teacher, to discuss Gestalt Language Processing (GLP). Monica shares profound insights from her professional experience and personal life, raising an autistic child who is a GLP. The episode explores strategies for connecting with GLP kids, understanding their unique expressions, and promoting an inclusive environment both at home and in clinical settings. Learn about the importance of detective work, the role of special interests, and the use of declarative language to improve communication with GLP individuals. Whether you're a speech therapist, a parent, or a professional working with neurodiverse individuals, this episode is packed with valuable information and practical takeaways.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:42 Meet Monica Reaves: A Unique Perspective

03:15 Understanding Gestalt Language Processing

05:38 GLP at Home: Personal Experiences

07:56 Clinical Insights and Therapeutic Approaches

18:35 The Role of Metaphors in Therapy

40:45 Building Rapport and De-escalation Techniques

46:41 Exploring Somatic Techniques

49:16 The Power of Declarative Language

54:49 Self-Advocacy in Pre-Teen GLP Life

01:03:22 Analogical Reasoning and Special Interests

01:19:48 Building Trust Through Special Interests

01:25:25 Q&A and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Monica Reaves, LCSW-C, M.Ed., is a clinical social worker with 14 years of experience in various settings, including mental health clinics, hospital psychiatric units, forensic interviewing for child welfare services, and special education environments. For the past 9 years, Monica has also worked as a special education teacher, providing individualized and group instruction in both private homes and clinic settings. She hold a Master's degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration in children and families from the University of Maryland, Baltimore's School of Social Work, and a Master’s degree in Education with a concentration in special education with a certificate in autism from George Mason University's College of Education and Human Development. Monica's practice, My Pace Learning and Behavioral Health, supports neurodiverse clients in making empowered choices and achieving their goals, while providing tools to help navigate a neurotypical world.

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