Guest: Alicia Smalls, MPH, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS, CDP, LSVT-C

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Join Renee Garrett and special guest Alicia Smalls as they delve into the topic of autonomic dysregulation in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. Alicia shares her extensive clinical and research experience, providing insights on diagnosis, symptoms, and impactful therapeutic strategies. Learn about autonomic imbalance, its effects on cognitive recovery, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing TBI. This in-depth conversation also includes real case studies and practical advice for clinicians and caregivers.

About the Guest:

Alicia Smalls, MPH, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS, CDP, LSVT-C, is a clinician-scientist in training with a passion for translational neuroscience. Currently pursuing her PhD in Exercise Science with a focus on Rehabilitation Science and Neuroscience at the University of South Carolina, Alicia’s research bridges the gap between diagnosis and therapy by integrating advanced neuroimaging techniques, objective assessments, and subjective evaluations to inform and implement innovative therapeutic strategies. With extensive clinical experience spanning inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient care, and community-based therapy, Alicia specializes in treating individuals with traumatic brain injuries, strokes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Her work combines evidence-based interventions with patient-centered care to optimize recovery and enhance quality of life. Dedicated to advancing the field of translational neuroscience, Alicia aims to develop tools and therapies that improve diagnostic precision and treatment efficacy for individuals with brain injuries. As a board member of the Brain Injury Association of South Carolina, she also advocates for brain injury awareness, education, and policy initiatives. Her contributions to research and clinical practice have been recognized through honors such as the Norman J. Arnold Fellowship and the SCSHA Award for Outstanding Poster Presentation.

Mentioned in this episode:

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