Complex Kids, Simple Solutions

Is your child heading into psychoeducational testing, or do you disagree with what the school found?

Dr. Whitney Hall, a psychologist who focuses only on learning-difference assessments, explains how private testing works and how to use the results with your school.Host Michelle Choairy and Dr. Hall cover:
• What happens at the intake appointment and how long testing takes
• How an assessor chooses tests for each child, including IQ testing, dyslexia and ADHD evaluations
• How virtual testing works, and why results are comparable to in-person testing
• How private testing differs from school testing
• What schools must do with outside evaluations at an IEP meeting
• Why a school may not repeat a test that was recently given
• Dr. Hall's advice for parents: trust your instincts, because you know your child best

Timestamps
0:00 Welcome and introduction
1:11 Dr. Hall's path into assessment work
2:53 How the testing process starts
4:09 How long testing takes
5:35 How tests are chosen
8:28 Assessing for dyslexia, ADHD, attention and memory
11:49 Virtual testing, before and after COVID
17:43 Private testing vs. school testing
19:05 Bringing outside results to your IEP team
22:06 Why schools may avoid repeating a test
26:49 Dr. Hall's advice for parents

#IEP #SpecialEducation #ParentingSpecialNeeds #ADHD #Dyslexia

What happens when a mom turns her hardest chapter into a community for others? In this episode, host Michelle Choairy sits down with Jessica Patay, founder of Brave Together, a community for caregiving moms. It now has over 4,500 members across all 50 states and about 30 other countries.Jessica shares what life is like caring for her 23-year-old son, Ryan, who has Prader-Willi syndrome and autism. She explains how blogging with honesty led to retreats, support groups, a podcast and two books, including Suddenly Brave Together, a collection of letters to caregiving moms. Michelle also shares her own experience raising a son with a rare genetic disorder.In this conversation:

• Why Jessica started the community she needed herself
• Why breaks are a win-win for caregivers and their kids
• How to build a village, and when to walk away from people who aren't right for it
• What's next: more retreats, a couples retreat, and a new weekly mental health education program, Brave and Empowered

Jessica's three takeaways: you're not alone, invest in your own mental and social health, and there's always a way to make meaning out of crisis.

Let It Be Simple: Ending Caregiver Burnout for Moms of Complex Kids

Michelle Choairy talks with Rebe about caregiver burnout, self-care, and how moms of neurodivergent kids can protect their nervous system without needing extra time, money, or perfection. Rebe shares from lived experience as a mom of two neurodivergent teens and offers practical ways to make self-care fit into real life, even in the middle of chaos.In this episode:

• Rebe shares how burnout showed up during a long fight to get her oldest child’s IEP and supports in place, while her younger child also needed significant care.
• She explains the turning point of realizing that if she got into the car dysregulated, she would make the situation worse for everyone.
• Michelle and Rebe discuss how self-care often feels selfish to moms, especially when kids have extra needs and schedules are already overloaded.
• Rebe reframes self-care as survival, not luxury, and says the goal is the minimum effective dose that still helps.
• She introduces habit stacking, using an existing routine like walking the dog or brewing tea to anchor a tiny meditation practice.
• Rebe describes her “stoplight meditation” and “two-breath micro meditation” as ways to reset throughout the day in seconds, not hours.
• The conversation covers how to find calm in the middle of real life, not in an idealized quiet environment.
• Michelle and Rebe talk about movement, including walking, stretching on the couch, and making exercise smaller when a full workout is unrealistic.
• Rebe challenges the idea that guilt is always guilt, suggesting it may actually be judgment, discomfort, or internalized pressure.
• She closes with a simple message for listeners: let it be simple.
  
  Meet Rebe Goebel — Parent Advocacy Coach, Author & Trauma-Informed Somatic Healer

Rebe Goebel is a Parent Advocacy Coach, author of Lanterns in the Dark: A Holistic Guide to Navigating Special Education Without Losing Your Sanity, and a trauma-informed somatic healer who helps parents of children with complex needs move out of survival mode and become confident, grounded advocates.

After experiencing a disastrous IEP meeting for one of her two neurodivergent children, Rebe drew on her background as a former Air Force officer and corporate contract negotiator to navigate the special education system more effectively.

She went on to serve five years on the Executive Committee of the Special School District of St. Louis County's Parent Advisory Council, including three years as president, advocating for approximately 24,000 students across 22 school districts.

Today, through Freya's Haven, Rebe combines practical IEP advocacy strategies with nervous system regulation, breathwork, and somatic techniques to help parents navigate difficult conversations without sacrificing their well-being.

Her approach is refreshingly realistic: self-care should work in the middle of actual parenting life, not require another hour you don't have.

Connect with Rebe:

Website: https://www.rebegoebel.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebegoebel/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccagoebel/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2D7QHQxLO2HBYdm3ZjqHYQ

A mischievous witch, a snowy Christmas Eve, and a story that teaches kids to see the world differently—this episode is a warm, thoughtful conversation about George's Snowy Christmas Eve Ride and the childhood story that inspired it.Michelle Choairy sits down with author Leigh Crawshaw, who shares how a tale told by her grandmother nearly 60 years ago became a 44-page children's book, now being released through Miriam Laundry Publishing with illustrations by Fernando Lopez Juarez. Leigh reveals why George is a “happy witch,” how the character’s name came from Georgetta, and why this story is just as much about perspective, preferences, and self-acceptance as it is about Christmas magic.You'll discover:

• How a bedtime story from childhood grew into a published children's book decades later
• Why George's love of darkness and dislike of bright Christmas lights gives the story its spark
• What Leigh learned from working with an illustrator who brought George to life exactly as she imagined
• Why the book is being released in both English and Spanish
• How the story connects to bigger lessons about listening to children and honoring what they need

Michelle also connects the story to her own family, Christmas traditions, and the way kids—especially complex kids—often respond to the world in their own unique ways. Leigh expands on that idea with a powerful reminder for parents: children grow up, their interests change, and the real work is learning how to support their independence without forcing them into a mold that doesn't fit.This conversation is perfect for parents, educators, and anyone who loves children's books that do more than entertain. If you want a holiday story with heart, humor, and a deeper message about seeing people for who they are, George is waiting for you.

Leigh Crawshaw is the author of George's Snowy Christmas Eve Ride, a new children's book rooted in a story she has carried since childhood. Her work blends playful storytelling with lessons about identity, perspective, and meeting children where they are.

Kim from Mendability reveals why simple sensory enrichment can unlock neuroplasticity, reduce meltdowns, and create real gains for kids with autism and other neurological differences—without relying on endless hours of pressure-filled therapy.

Michelle Choairy brings the real-world parenting perspective, sharing what she has tried with her own son and the questions every parent eventually asks: What actually helps? What is too much? And how do you support growth without burning a child out?

Kim explains how Mendability’s approach, developed with his mother, starts with two of the brain’s most fundamental sensory systems: smell and touch. He breaks down why pairing them can trigger an elevated state of neuroplasticity, how the program is measured on a simple zero-to-five scale, and why families often see meaningful progress within months when the routine is done consistently.

You’ll discover:

• Why a short daily sensory routine can matter more than hours of repetitive intervention
• How smell, touch, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine work together to prime the brain for change
• Why older kids may sometimes progress faster than younger ones
• What families can expect from Mendability’s assessment and therapy process
• How the team is preparing a University of Wisconsin study to look for structural brain changes on MRI and EEG

Kim also shares a powerful reminder for overwhelmed parents: the brain grows during breaks, not only during constant intervention. That idea reframes everything for families balancing school, therapy, work, and real life—especially when they are trying to help a child who needs support without making every moment feel like work.

If you are parenting a child with autism, apraxia, sensory challenges, or complex developmental needs, this conversation offers a fresh lens on what progress can look like when connection, pleasure, and recovery are built into the process. Essential listening if you want practical hope, not just more advice.

A new season of Complex Kids Simple Solutions starts with a personal reset, a bigger mission, and a sharper focus on what families of complex and rare kids need most right now.

Michelle opens up about her medical leave, why she created the show in the first place, and how this season will go deeper into science, rare disease, autism, IEPs, and real-world parent support. After 58 episodes and a top 5% podcast ranking, Michelle is steering the show into a more specific, more practical direction. Expect conversations with scientists, providers, and most importantly, moms who are living it every day—parents who will share their stories and then work through the next right steps for school supports, diagnoses, and treatment decisions.

You’ll hear why “simple” does not mean easy, how Michelle thinks about labels like “complex kids,” and why parents of rare and ultra-rare children deserve to be heard. She also explains what’s changing this season, why the episodes will stay short and conversational, and how the show will keep delivering clear, actionable guidance without the fluff.Michelle also makes an important reminder for parents in the first weeks of school: the things you’re noticing at home, at drop-off, and in the classroom matter.

If something feels off, it’s information, not overreacting—and this season is designed to help you act on it with confidence.

If you’re navigating an IEP, searching for the right team, wondering what to do next after a diagnosis, or trying to make sense of a child’s behavior, this season is for you.

Join Michelle for candid conversations, practical support, and a new set of episodes built to make the complex feel a little more clear.

Unlock the secrets to effective homeschooling for children with special needs—without burning out or sacrificing social skills. If you're feeling overwhelmed at the thought of teaching your complex kiddo, this episode is your game-changer.

Katelyn Deville, a seasoned homeschooling specialist, shares her insider tips on how to tailor education at home that works for your child's unique needs. Whether you're worried about losing services like speech therapy or concerned about socialization, she offers practical solutions grounded in real-world experience.

From navigating state requirements to customizing curriculums that meet your child's challenges, Katelyn breaks down exactly how to make homeschooling a sustainable and enriching option.

You'll discover:

• The key signs that signal homeschooling might be the best choice for your family
• How to incorporate therapies like ABA, speech, and OT into a flexible, home-based schedule
• Strategies to teach children with ADHD, autism, and other complex needs without becoming overwhelmed
• The truth about socialization and how homeschooling can actually foster better life skills
• How to adapt your child's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for home learning

This episode isn’t just about education—it’s about empowerment. Taking control of your child's learning journey can open doors to personalized growth and discovery, but it requires understanding both the challenges and the unique opportunities homeschooling offers.

If you’re a parent of a special needs child contemplating your options, Katelyn’s insights will give you confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of possibility. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and advocates considering homeschooling, especially those navigating the complexities of special needs education.

Don’t miss the upcoming free workshop and the three-step framework that Caitlin unveils to help you decide if homeschooling is right for your family.

Remember, you are more capable than you think—you've been your child's best advocate from day one. And now, you can unlock their full potential with tailored, compassionate education at home. For more resources and a free consultation, visit homebasedmethod.com.

Most parents of kids with speech delays feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn—until now.

Speech therapist Kira Howard shares her proven strategies for supporting children with apraxia and other Speech Disorders, revealing how her innovative techniques can accelerate progress—even when traditional therapy feels slow or frustrating.

Imagine understanding exactly how to boost your child's speech at home, even if you're not a therapist. Kira's practical, fun methods—like movement-based prompts and play-inspired exercises—are designed to fit effortlessly into your busy life.

You’ll discover her favorite hands-on cues for helping kids self-correct, how movement can unlock speech blocks, and why early intervention is shaping the future of children with complex communication needs.

In this episode, we break down:

• The real reasons diagnosis takes so long, and what parents can do while waiting
• How to identify early signs of apraxia in your young child and avoid costly delays
• Why some children thrive with less traditional approaches like movement and play
• The crucial role of parent advocacy and asking the right questions in therapy
• Why the best providers often don't take insurance—plus tips to find specialists you trust

If you're a parent navigating speech challenges, or a caregiver seeking fresh ideas, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Kira’s heartfelt stories and expert advice will empower you to become your child's strongest advocate—making therapy more effective and less stressful.

Don't miss this chance to learn how movement, play, and persistence can truly transform your child's communication journey.

Perfect for parents of young children, speech therapy students, and anyone eager to support speech growth in a fun, natural way. Tune in to hear why early, movement-based interventions could change everything—and how you can start today.

In this episode, Dr. Carla Caturia shares her journey from education to coaching, focusing on empowering teenagers and parents through emotional intelligence, confidence, and resilience. Discover practical strategies to support youth in overcoming anxiety, building self-esteem, and developing vital life skills.

Adaptive Show Notes for "Understanding EMDR and Supporting Complex Kids"

: Michelle welcomes Jenny Hornby, a counselor, children's book author, and EMDR-trained therapist, to explore innovative ways to help neurodivergent and complex kids process emotions and fears. Discover how trauma-informed tools like EMDR and engaging therapeutic stories can make a difference.

:

• What EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is and how it aids emotional regulation in kids
• The science behind bilateral movement and its role in de-escalating distress
• How play therapy and creative activities support emotional processing
• Practical tips for implementing EMDR techniques with children, including play and art strategies
• The importance of connecting with children at their pace and using their language
• The impact of storybooks, like "Made for This," on helping kids face fears and understand body sensations
• Approaches for supporting parents through their own trauma triggers and repair in relationships
• Techniques for managing rigid thoughts and encouraging asking for help (e.g., Nutella scenario)
• Upcoming projects including a book about anger management in children.

:

• Francine Shapiro on EMDR
• Anna Gomez's Resources on Play Therapy & EMDR
• Inside Out Movie
• Made for This Book on Amazon
• How to Train Your Dragon Book Series

:

• LinkedIn
• Website

: No matter how overwhelming parenting a complex or neurodivergent child may feel, repairing relationships and building resilience is always possible. Stay connected, stay hopeful, and keep supporting your child's journey.