Dr. Samantha Levy joins us this week to discuss the challenges of supporting kids with chronic pain. Samantha is a clinical psychologist specializing in youth with chronic pain disorders, using a biopsychosocial approach to address both physical and emotional challenges. She also supports parents through individual sessions, group facilitation, and a parenting blog for Creative Healing for Youth in Pain, while working with Whole Child LA. In this episode, we discuss the complexities of chronic pain and explore its neurological nature and the effects that it has on one's body, mind, and family dynamics.  Dr. Levy explains the difference between acute and chronic pain, highlighting how the latter often persists even after healed injuries, creating a cycle of anxiety and misunderstood suffering.

Our conversation goes into common causes of chronic pain in children and teens, including the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. We talk about how these can contribute to the development of pain around puberty, and Dr. Levy highlights the emotional and social burden that this puts on kids, with children often withdrawing from school, friends, and activities which, of course, only worsens their pain and mental health.

With practical advice, Dr. Levy shares how treatment can address the root causes via a more holistic approach, including psychotherapy and mindfulness. She also discusses the importance of family support, the idea of "backward parenting," and strategies to reintegrate children into daily activities such as modified school accommodations.

Finally, Dr. Samantha Levy offers insights for caregivers, encouraging them to prioritize their own well-being via self-care and support networks!

[2:19] - Dr. Levy explains how acute pain alerts us to harm, while chronic pain creates anxiety and misunderstood distress. [4:51] - Chronic pain is a neurological condition that causes changes in the brain, often making it invisible. [6:06] Chronic pain is typically viewed holistically and includes biological, psychological, and social factors. [8:43] - Things like puberty, stress, and social complexities can make it even more difficult for kids to manage chronic pain. [11:16] - Kids with chronic pain are often perfectionists, emotionally sensitive, and/or tend to internalize stress. [14:47] - Chronic pain leads to isolation which then affects daily life, school, and relationships. [15:20] - Chronic pain ultimately impacts every aspect of a child's life, worsening mental health and often resulting in isolation. [18:54] - Isolation, anxiety, and chronic pain often create a vicious cycle that's further affected by family dynamics and support. [19:30] - Samantha explains how medical trauma from misdiagnosis or mistreatment leaves many kids feeling hopeless and resistant to new treatments. [21:02] - Strategies such as a team approach, psychotherapy, and/or mindfulness can help break the chronic pain cycle. [24:23] - Recovery from chronic pain involves re-engaging in activities and a shift in the approaches that parents are used to taking, [27:02] - Dr. Levy discusses how backward parenting encourages connection and avoids pressuring progress. [29:17] - Dr. Levy feels that parents must acknowledge discomfort and anxieties to support their child's recovery. [32:09] - Samantha argues that advocating for accommodations such as extra time and modified schedules helps kids with chronic pain. [35:19] - Physical accommodations, such as flexible bathroom breaks or desk signals, ultimately support kids with chronic pain! [36:57] - Dr. Levy points out how caregivers of children with chronic pain need self-care, therapy, and activities that offer healing.

• CHYP’s Website

• CHYP’s YouTube Channel

• Fact Sheet: Chronic Pain in Children and Adolescents

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This week, we discuss the complexities of dyspraxia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that can greatly affect written expression.  We are joined by Natasha Gray, founder of Spark Learning in the Caribbean. We unpack dyspraxia and what it is and highlight its varied types and how it often overlaps with other challenges such as ADHD and dyslexia.

Natasha explains the different ways that dyspraxia can manifest and discusses some of the warning signs such as illegible handwriting, avoidance of writing tasks, and challenges with spelling and spacing. Natasha also shares her insights into the neurological and motor components behind these struggles, and she highlights why it's important to understand each child’s individual needs.

Our conversation offers strategies and advice for parents and educators to support children with dyspraxia, with Natasha discussing the role of occupational therapy in developing fine motor skills and classroom accommodations such as typing out assignments and providing extra time for written tasks. We tackle common challenges, such as how to address fatigue and pain caused by writing, and Natasha offers some ways to build on patience and understanding in educational environments.

If you’re a parent, teacher, or someone eager to learn about supporting neurodivergent children, this episode is filled with expert advice, actionable strategies, and a compassionate approach to navigating dyspraxia!

[2:59] - Dysgraphia varies widely and affects writing speed, expression, and presentation differently in each child. [4:44] - Natasha addresses dyslexic dysgraphia which impacts spelling, handwriting, and articulation despite strong verbal skills. [7:11] - Lexical dysgraphia in older children and adults stems from weak mental visualization of words. [8:43] - Writing difficulties in dysgraphia include poor spacing and dexterity, requiring customized accommodations. [11:46] - Dysgraphia often co-occurs with dyslexia, sharing sound-symbol association and written expression challenges. [12:58] - Natasha explains how children with dysgraphia often avoid writing and require patience, support, and therapy from teachers and parents. [15:30] - Natasha highlights the importance of improving children's fine motor skills in order to improve their handwriting. [17:05] - Natasha uses techniques such as practicing letter formation, strengthening exercises, and spacing tools to improve writing skills. [19:46] - Older children and adults can benefit from functional handwriting tasks, multisensory techniques, and assistive technology. [22:17] - ​​Assistive tools and accommodations can help individuals demonstrate knowledge despite writing challenges. [24:53] - Natasha asserts that writing simple notes or emails helps adults improve skills, confidence, and vocabulary. [26:38] - Practicing low-pressure writing builds important skills for students and supports struggling adults in workplaces. [29:05] - Natasha stresses the need for teachers to have empathy and to intervene with custom solutions.

• Episode 39: Why Fine Motor Skills Matter with Jennifer Morgan

• Episode 175: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Writing with Shanna Trombetta

• Coping with Executive Function Deficits in the Context of Writing

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

• Spark Learning’s Website

• Spark Learning’s Instagram Page

Natasha C. Gray M.Ed., B.Sc., Dip.Ed., Cert.(Dyslexia) Board Certified Cognitive Specialist BPS Test User No. 398326

Spark Learning Suite #3 Gertz Plaza Upper Collymore Rock St. Michael Barbados Phone:1-246-825-8697 Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we had a wonderful conversation with Marisol Chianello, TIGER Director at Learning Rights Law Center where she empowers parents of children in special education through the "Know Your Rights" program. With a legal career that began in 2005, Marisol has worked with many nonprofits advocating for marginalized groups, and she also currently serves as the President of the Rotary Club of Mental Health and Wellness.

Marisol joins us for this episode to help us break down the differences between IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) and 504 plans, two essential tools that help children with disabilities receive the support they need in school. She explains how a 504 plan ensures students with disabilities receive necessary accommodations like providing Braille for blind students or access to elevators for those with mobility issues. An IEP, however, provides more specialized educational services, such as speech therapy or learning support, intended to help children make academic progress.

Our conversation also explores how different disabilities (ranging from ADHD to learning disorders like dyslexia) might align with either plan and what steps parents should take if they believe that their child might need extra support.

Marisol also delves into the legal safeguards that come with IEPs, empowering parents to advocate for their children’s needs in IEP meetings. With practical advice on how to request an IEP, prepare for meetings, and ensure that children receive the required assessments, this episode is a must-listen for parents who want to navigate the educational system with confidence!

Show Notes:

[2:42] - Marisol explains the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP. [5:37] - It's common for parents to misunderstand the IEP and 504 plan, associating certain conditions with each. [8:35] - Marisol encourages parents to trust their instincts, communicate concerns with the school, and collaborate to determine the best action plan. [10:18] - A good starting point is to request an IEP in writing, outlining concerns, and carefully reviewing the assessment plan. [13:02] - Marisol reiterates that schools must assess students suspected of disabilities, while IEPs address all school-related challenges. [16:45] - An IEP or 504 plan is necessary when a child's ability to function in school is impacted. [17:51] - Marisol points out how IEPs offer more protections for parents, including consent and participation. [20:49] - It's common for parents to be unaware of their involvement in IEPs and the rights they have. [21:23] - Marisol argues that parents are equal team members in IEP meetings and should confidently speak up for their child. [23:05] - Marisol recommends reviewing records and assessments before the IEP meeting. [26:21] - IEPs should also highlight a child's strengths! [29:33] - Parents can request assessments in a child's second language, especially for bilingual or immersion students. [30:30] - Marisol adds that the assessment should be in the child’s primary language as determined by an appropriate assessment. [32:17] - Don't allow fear or stigma to prevent you from seeking help; early intervention greatly benefits the child's progress! [34:42] - The TIGER program empowers parents through education and community.

Links and Related Resources:

• Learning Rights Law Center

• Learning Rights Law Center - TIGER Program

• Learning Rights Law Center - Education Rights Clinic

• How to Initiate a Special Education Assessment

• Navigating Parent-Teacher Conferences with Neurodivergent Kids: Tips and Questions

• Episode 217: Assessing Learning Differences in Bilingual Students & Students in Dual Language Programs with Dr. Vindia Fernandez

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Joining us for this episode of the podcast is Dr. Vindia Fernandez, who has been on the show before back in episode 3. Dr. Fernandez earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Houston and completed her APA-accredited internship and fellowship at UCLA, specializing in neurodevelopmental issues like autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. As founder of the Center for Pediatric Neuropsychology and director at UCLA’s Cultural Neuropsychology Program, her focus is on culturally appropriate evaluations for Latino/a children and teaching social skills to neurodiverse youth.

Dr. Fernandez discusses how bilingualism in children is often misunderstood and that it’s usually good for cognitive development. She also elaborates upon some red flags when it comes to identifying possible learning disabilities such as dyslexia and how her procedures differ depending on whether or not the bilingual child is in an English-only classroom or if the child is in a dual language immersion program. She reflects on some of her frustrations around how bilingual children are assessed and what she hopes to see change in the future.

While we have certainly seen great strides and progress in this area, there is still much work to do, such as honoring heritage languages, increasing integration, and identifying problems earlier. Dr. Fernandez is a wealth of knowledge on this topic, and her passion truly shines through. 

[2:40] - Assessing bilingual children is a true passion for Dr. Fernandez. [3:44] - She feels that bilingualism in children is often misunderstood. [5:22] - Learning another language is incredibly dynamic and complex and is different for every child. [7:06] - Vindia reflects on a recent change of more children engaged in dual language immersion programs. [9:55] - What red flags should be paid attention to that don’t tend to be problems with monolingual children? [13:11] - Vindia explains why her procedures differ depending on whether the bilingual child is in a dual language immersion program. [15:46] - Vindia explains why assessments might need to be done in both of a child’s languages. [18:07] - What role do language disorders play in bilingual children? [21:28] - We ultimately want these children to be confident and to reach milestones. [24:15] - “You teach to the skill that you want to see improvement in.” [27:16] - Dr. Fernandez mentions that 50-75% of behavior therapy involves parents.  [30:55] - She gives some helpful advice to parents.

• Episode 3: Neuropsychological Evaluations Through a Cultural Lens with Dr. Vindia Fernandez

• Episode 214: Private Neuropsychological Evaluation vs. School Evaluation

• How to Initiate a Special Education Assessment

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

• Dr. Vindia Fernandez’s Website

• Dr. Fernandez’s ChildNEXUS Page

• Email: [email protected]

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc. or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.

This week, we had an engaging and enlightening discussion with Dr. Ashley Smith about teen anxiety. Dr. Ashley Smith is an award-winning licensed psychologist and expert in anxiety, and we explore the critical differences between stress and anxiety, the various factors that are causing the surge in teen anxiety, and actionable strategies for parents and educators to support teens who are struggling.

Dr. Ashley highlights the importance of distinguishing typical adolescent stress from pervasive anxiety that disrupts daily life, and she discusses the role of societal shifts like technology, social media, and recent global events in shaping teens' mental health, alongside challenges like academic pressure. She also offers some practical advice on recognizing hidden signs of anxiety, such as perfectionism, avoidance, and emotional dysregulation.

Our conversation also uncovers how modern culture, including the “good vibes only” mindset and misinformation on social media, impacts teens' ability to process their emotions, with Dr. Ashley highlighting early intervention and equipping listeners with tools to help teens build resilience, from modeling healthy coping strategies to encouraging bravery in the face of adversity.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver of teens who suffer from anxiety, this episode provides valuable insights into supporting teens through challenges while fostering their psychological strength. 

[2:23] - Anxiety, Dr. Ashley explains, acts as a warning system, but excessive anxiety can disrupt functioning and become a disorder. [5:45] - Dr. Ashley stresses the importance of early intervention for anxiety; it worsens over time and increases the risk of depression and suicide. [7:39] - Anxiety shows up in various ways, including aggression, perfectionism, and avoidance. [10:23] - Phones aren't inherently bad, but social media use can worsen anxiety through comparisons, cyberbullying, and sleep disruption. [12:17] - Dr. Ashley argues that technology and social media have amplified teen anxiety, with factors like COVID-19 and social inequality contributing. [15:14] - Anxiety and depression often exist in tandem, with societal pressures and heavy workloads increasing teens' stress. [18:00] - Anxiety should not be used as an excuse for inaction; building resilience and equipping teens with tools is very important. [19:26] - It's so important for parents to help kids manage anxiety, teach coping skills, and encourage being brave. [22:42] - Modeling anxiety strategies shows kids how to cope, but therapy can offer further support. [23:52] - Ashley points out that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are effective treatments for anxiety. [26:38] - Parents should approach therapy conversations gently, understanding that their teen may not recognize their anxiety. [27:24] - Treating teen anxiety can involve parents using strategies like SPACE, focusing on calm, non-judgmental conversations. [30:21] - Parents of teens with anxiety often feel isolated and judged, but Dr. Ashley encourages listeners that support groups can help. [32:57] - To manage social anxiety, parents should limit exposure to social media to prevent unnecessary stress.

• Anxiety Mini-Course for Parents

• Episode 131: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Kids and Teens with Dr. Shadab Jannati

• Episode 153: Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with Dr. Jesse Spiegel

• ADAA

• SPACE Treatment

• Dr. Ashley Smith - The Way I See It: A Psychologist’s Guide to a Happier Life

• Jonathan Haidt - The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

• Ashley’s Website

• Ashley’s Instagram Profile

• Ashley’s TikTok Profile

• Email: [email protected]

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc. or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.

This week we sit down with Dr. Emily Levy, founder and director of EBL Coaching, to explore the complexities of reading comprehension, a skill crucial for learners of all ages. While phonics and decoding often dominate discussions around reading challenges, Dr. Levy highlights the often-overlooked significance of comprehension, explaining that it’s the very essence of why we read.

Tune in to learn about common signs parents notice when their children struggle with comprehension and how these challenges often emerge as students transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." Dr. Levy shares actionable strategies, such as the tri-colored highlighting method, which helps students become active readers by identifying topics, main ideas, and key details.

From auditory techniques for younger learners to practical interventions for high school students tackling complex subjects, Dr. Levy emphasizes the importance of tailored, research-based approaches. She also addresses how attention challenges like ADHD can compound comprehension issues and offers ways to adapt strategies accordingly.  So whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about enhancing reading skills, this episode provides valuable insights into fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning.

[1:52] - Many students struggle with reading comprehension, especially during the grade 3 to 4 transition. [4:25] - Research-based strategies like tri-colored highlighting help students actively engage and comprehend material. [6:30] - Dr. Levy discusses how younger students benefit from auditory-focused comprehension strategies, while older students apply strategies to coursework. [8:50] - Teaching students to form mental images while reading significantly enhances their comprehension skills. [10:21] - With the right methods, most students show reading progress within a month, aided by multimedia tools. [12:29] - Dr. Levy argues that active reading strategies improve focus and comprehension but are customized for each child's needs. [14:24] - Parents can enhance comprehension by reading together, asking questions, and encouraging discussions about content. [16:43] - Engaging struggling readers with topics they enjoy builds confidence and fosters a love for reading. [19:12] - Emily points out how encouraging regular reading and providing classroom accommodations supports comprehension and standardized test performance. [22:42] - One-on-one multisensory tutoring supports students who struggle with reading.

• EBL Coaching - Website

• Book a Consultation

• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Get on our Email List

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc. or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.

Listen in to dive into a topic this week that often confuses parents, educators, and professionals alike: the differences between neuropsychological assessments, psychoeducational evaluations, and school-based assessments. Listen as Karen breaks down the purpose, scope, and key distinctions of these evaluations. We begin by exploring the reasons why families might seek assessments, from academic struggles to behavioral or emotional challenges, and even to identify giftedness. Learn how school-based evaluations focus on academic impact and eligibility for accommodations, while neuropsychological assessments offer a comprehensive view of a child's brain functioning, including cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and social skills. You can also expect to hear how evaluations provide a middle ground, often focusing on learning profiles and classroom support.

Whether you’re a parent trying to understand your child’s struggles, an educator seeking clarity, and/or a fellow professional navigating these assessments, this episode provides essential guidance to help determine the best path forward!

[0:53] - Parents often seek evaluations to understand their child's academic or behavioral challenges. [3:08] - Assessments can explore emotional, social, cognitive, or processing factors impacting school performance and peer interactions. [6:02] - School-based evaluations determine eligibility for school-based support but do not provide medical diagnoses like ADHD. [8:38] - We learn how neuropsychological assessments offer a detailed analysis of cognitive, academic, behavioral, and emotional functioning. [11:38] - Children benefit from neuropsychological assessments to address unexplained struggles or track cognitive changes over time. [14:16] - Discover how neuropsychological assessments explore broader brain-behavior relationships. [16:55] - Psychoeducational assessments emphasize academic skills and learning profiles. [18:24] - In closing, parents can seek help from practitioners to determine the most suitable evaluation for their child.

• How to Initiate a Special Education Assessment

• Episode 113: Demystifying the Assessment Process

• Episode 205: Understanding ADHD Assessments

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.

Listen in as we discuss executive functioning and unpack its critical role in managing daily life and long-term success. There are the three core executive functions - inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility – and they form the foundation for skills like organization, planning, and emotional regulation.

Hear compelling research that highlights the lifelong impact of executive functioning, including studies linking early skill development to improved academic, social, and career outcomes. We also discuss interventions that can significantly enhance these skills, with surprising findings that reveal that practicing mindfulness with movement, such as Tai Chi produces the strongest results.

Discover practical insights and evidence-based strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals - and anyone looking to strengthen their executive functioning skills. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious, this episode offers invaluable tools for fostering growth and resilience.

[0:48] - Hear about a recent presentation on executive functioning interventions at a summit on neurodivergence in Los Angeles. [2:06] - Executive functioning involves applying problem-solving skills for goals, with core functions such as inhibitory control. [5:06] - Cognitive flexibility fosters perspective-shifting, enabling problem-solving, planning, and decision-making in daily life. [7:45] - Strengthening executive functions early enhances academic performance, societal opportunities, and long-term success. [10:18] - Research shows impulse control predicts better adulthood outcomes than IQ, gender, or social class. [13:52] - Movement-based mindfulness practices like Tai Chi and Taekwondo most effectively improve executive functioning skills. [16:54] - Non-computerized cognitive training excels due to in-person interaction, boosting executive functioning outcomes. [20:06] - Sports improve executive functioning through attention, self-regulation, and social bonding while fostering joy. [23:34] - Multimodal approaches to executive functioning training reduce inequality and enhance skills across diverse populations.

• What Is Executive Functioning?

• Be the Executive-in-Charge

• Coping with Executive Function Deficits in the Context of Writing

• Episode 11: Executive Functioning 101

• Episode 12: Executive Functioning Support for Struggling Learners with Hannah Ross

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.

Today, we’re exploring a crucial yet often overlooked topic: the impact of dyslexia on mental health. Dyslexia affects nearly 20% of people in the United States, yet its influence goes far beyond reading challenges. Many don’t realize the deep connection between dyslexia and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and self-esteem struggles. Misunderstandings and stigma can lead to feelings of isolation, particularly in children who face early reading difficulties. This episode explores how misconceptions contribute to mental health challenges and why addressing these issues is so important.

We’ll also discuss how co-occurring challenges like ADHD and anxiety can make individuals with dyslexia even more vulnerable. Proper interventions not only improve reading skills but also build resilience and boost self-esteem, creating a foundation for positive mental health outcomes.

[1:20] - Research shows that up to 20% of people in the United States have dyslexia.

[2:09] - For years, dyslexia has been misunderstood. There is no link between dyslexia and intelligence.

[3:04] - Children who struggle early in reading are more prone to experience social anxiety and depression.

[4:25] - Many children with dyslexia often have co-occurring challenges like ADHD and anxiety disorders. This makes them even more vulnerable.

[5:50] - With proper interventions, not only can we improve reading skills, but we can boost self-esteem and resilience in children with dyslexia.

[6:31] - Early intervention and diagnosis make a big difference, but common myths and misconceptions slow things down.

[8:21] - Dyslexia is a part of a person’s identity but it's not the whole story. Understanding dyslexia is important to understanding its impact on mental health.

• What is Dyslexia?

• Episode 208: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing the Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz

• Episode 209: How the Science of Reading Can Close Literacy Gaps with Dr. Benjamin Powers

• Episode 115: A Family Approach to Dyslexia with Dr. Lauren

• Episode 183: Unlocking Potential - A Dyslexia Journey with Rosalin Abigail Kyere-Nartey

• Get on our Email List

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety or Dyslexia 

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.

Today, we’re exploring the transformative power of music therapy with our guest, Samantha Foote, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and Positive Discipline Parent Educator. Samantha brings her expertise to support neurodivergent individuals and their families by blending creativity with therapeutic intervention. With her approach, she uses music not just as a tool for expression but as a dynamic medium to accomplish non-musical goals such as enhancing social skills, emotional regulation, and fostering positive behavior. Samantha explains how music therapy intersects with occupational, speech, and behavioral therapies, providing an approach that encourages cognitive engagement in neurodivergent individuals of all ages.

In this episode, Samantha shares her journey into music therapy, explaining how her passion for music and psychology led her to this unique field. She illustrates how music therapy can create opportunities for clients, and shares anecdotes of children and adults alike experiencing success. Whether it’s helping clients develop confidence, manage anxiety, or learn calming strategies, Samantha’s work demonstrates music’s ability to stimulate multiple parts of the brain. We’ll also hear about a typical session, from the range of music styles used to the ways her interventions adapt to each client's needs. Samantha even shares resources and programs for those who might not have access to formal music therapy.

[2:32] - Samantha explains how she found herself in the unique field of music therapy, which for her was the perfect blend of music and psychology.

[3:45] - Music therapy is using music to accomplish non-musical goals, like building social and emotional skills. Music accesses many parts of your brain.

[5:40] - Especially for neurodivergent individuals, music is an excellent tool for stimulating cognitive function.

[6:53] - Samantha describes an example of a non-verbal student who receives music therapy to supplement speech therapy and his successes.

[8:46] - There are many ways that music has given students opportunities to do things they’ve never been able to do before.

[10:02] - Music therapy supports emotional regulation and flexible thinking.

[12:32] - Learning social skills through music is impactful, especially for neurodiverse individuals who struggle to understand social cues.

[15:40] - Samantha describes a typical session with clients and small groups, including what kinds of music she uses.

[17:32] - The interventions vary greatly per client and group.

[18:53] - Samantha also works with adults. Music therapy has helped clients with confidence struggles and anxiety.

[21:29] - There is a process for music therapists to follow to become board certified.

[22:57] - Samantha shares some programs and resources for those who don’t have access to music therapy.

[26:21] - Music helps learn calming strategies.

Samantha is a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and leverages the power of music to support neurodivergent individuals. She is also a Positive, Discipline Parent Educator, providing parents and caregivers with positive, effective parenting strategies while raising their neurodivergent children. 

• Email: [email protected]

• Every Brain is Different Podcast

• Episode 29: How Art and Music Can Improve Mood, Decrease Anxiety, and Empower Today’s Youth with Dr. Brette Genzel-Derman

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.