Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs

Guest: Sonya Floyd, MEd, CCC-SLP - Renee is joined by Sonya to discuss community reintegration, specifically for TBI survivors. Discover the range of services and support systems designed to help patients return to their daily lives and participate in their communities. This process requires a multidisciplinary approach, including medical and therapeutic support, social support, vocational rehabilitation, community resources, and education and advocacy programs. Join Renee and Sonya as they discuss personalized approaches to community reintegration that encompass the unique needs and goals specific to the TBI survivor.

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Guest: Robert "Bob" McKinney, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Robert (Bob) McKinney to discuss all things accent modification. From the origins of accents to treatment techniques SLPs can use tomorrow, consider this a dive into accent modification for the curious SLP. Join Renee and Bob as they discuss SLPs and accent modification.

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Guest: Rachael Silveira, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Rachael Silveira to discuss tracheostomies and ventilators and how to create a team of multidisciplinary professionals to aid in caring for patients with respiratory compromise. Managing patients with tracheostomy and/or ventilator dependency requires an interdisciplinary approach to ensure safety and optimal care. Through continuous monitoring, regular assessments, and nutritional support, SLPs are a crucial component of this team. SLPs are also critical in communication for these patients and the providers of education and support for the caregiving team/families. Effective management of tracheostomy and ventilated patients with compromised respiratory systems requires comprehensive and coordinated care tailored to the patient's individual needs. Join Renee and Rachael for an hour dedicated to this unique population.

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Guest: Kristin Koch, AuD. - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Koch to discuss hearing loss and cognitive communication disorders. Numerous studies have identified a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline. Some studies suggest that hearing loss may contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of conditions like dementia. Learn how communication science professionals address social isolation, cognitive load, and common pathological pathways linked to hearing loss. By addressing hearing loss, communication science professionals are improving auditory capabilities and promoting overall cognitive health. Early intervention and continued support from SLPs and audiologists can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline and enhance the quality of life for older adults.

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Guest: Courtney Welch, MS, ATC - In this episode, Renee is joined by Courtney to discuss post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Concussions, Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS), and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) are terms often heard in the context of sports injuries. But what do they really mean? In this episode, Renee and Courtney demystify the differences between these conditions, shed light on lesser-known facts, and explore the challenges faced by individuals with brain injuries. Join Renee and Courtney to uncover the complexities and discover how healthcare providers can offer support.

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Guest: Cheryl Pelletier, MS, SLP, CCC, CLC - In this episode, Renee is joined by Cheryl to discuss dysphagia tools as part of a comprehensive swallowing treatment plan. Feeding and swallowing services encompass a range of assessments and therapeutic interventions aimed at individuals who have dysphagia. These services are critical for individuals with various medical conditions, such as stroke, neurological disorders, head and neck cancers, or age-related changes. From clinical swallowing evaluations to instrumental assessments and other therapeutic interventions, our patients rely on us to bring every “tool” needed to provide a comprehensive and evidence-based dysphagia treatment plan. Traditional dysphagia exercises, rooted in exercise-based practices and physiological needs (determined via an instrumental examination such as FEEs or VFSS), are now being combined with therapeutic devices that measure things like tongue strength and endurance, resistance training neuromuscular electrical stimulation and sensory enhancing devices. These tools and services are provided by trained and qualified SLPs specializing in dysphagia management. The aim is to enhance the patient’s safety, nutrition, and quality of life by restoring or compensating for impaired swallowing function. Join Renee and Cheryl for a unique discussion about developing and using a unique dysphagia tool.

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Guest: Patrick Flanigan, Retired Chief EOD Technician, Purple Heart Recipient - In this episode, Renee is joined by Patrick, a retired Navy veteran and TBI survivor. In 2011, Renee and Pat's paths crossed, creating a unique bond. Renee's role as Pat's speech-language pathologist during a pivotal two-month inpatient rehabilitation stay left a lasting impression. Pat's recollection of the distinct functional treatment activities stands out. In 2016, Renee and Pat recorded an educational video for the independent project Outside My Wire. Since then, Pat has continued to recover from the life-changing impacts of the TBI he sustained in 2011. Join Renee and Pat to discover the journey of TBI recovery from the patient's perspective.

Trauma Warning: As a trauma-informed care provider, it's important to let you know that this episode may contain subject matter that triggers some listeners. Incidents of traumatic events, injuries, and mental health issues will be discussed. Please listen with caution if these situations are a trauma or mental health concern. While our guest continues to recover from these events, we want to inform you that these events may be difficult to listen to.

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Guest: Lisa Milliken, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP, CDP, RAC- CT, CADDCT - In this episode, Renee is joined by Lisa to discuss the impacts of polypharmacy and explore the pathophysiological changes behind drug-induced cognitive impairment, which sheds light on the complexities of this condition. Determining when Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) poses a significant risk is crucial for patient care and recovery, as is understanding how aging changes impact adverse medication reactions. In this episode, join Renee and Lisa as we delve into these topics to enhance our understanding and awareness of cognitive health in medical contexts.

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Guest: Nicole DePalma, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Nicole to discuss mobile FEES. Mobile FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is powerful in dysphagia assessment. It improves patients' access to care by providing another option for an instrumental swallowing exam. This episode will delve into what mobile FEES can and cannot provide. Join Renee and Nicole as they share insights on gaining competency in FEES. Let's explore how collaboration can enhance patient outcomes in this crucial area of healthcare.

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Guest: Alexandria Wynter Russell, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by, Alexandria to discuss effective treatment plans for the adult patient. In the dynamic field of speech-language pathology, catering treatment plans to individual patient needs is paramount. Let's explore how incorporating patient-centered tasks and goals can elevate the effectiveness of therapy. Join Renee and Alex as we delve into practical strategies to empower SLPs and patients toward improved communication and neurological function.

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Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7