Diverse Thinking Different Learning

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

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• 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.

Welcome back! In this episode, we’re diving into the world of managing challenging behaviors—a topic every parent can relate to. We often think of behavior as just an action, but today’s guest, Dr. Andrew Kahn, highlights that behavior is a form of communication. By reframing how we understand what our children are trying to express through their actions, we can open up new possibilities for positive outcomes for both parents and children. This shift in perspective can be a powerful tool for responding to even the most challenging behaviors in ways that support growth and connection.

Dr. Kahn also emphasizes the role of self-regulation, a skill that is valuable for both parents and children. Dr. Kahn describes how parents can model self-regulation by managing their own emotions first, taking a moment to pause before addressing a challenging behavior. 

Listen on for practical advice on adjusting expectations and being realistic about the consequences we set for our children. This episode is full of insights to empower you as a parent in handling challenging behaviors with empathy, patience, and in a way that allows your child the room to fall and learn.

[1:56] - Understanding a child’s behavior can lead to more positive outcomes for parents and children. Behavior is communication.

[3:02] - As adults, it is hard for us to remember the frustration and other emotions associated with not being understood as children.

[4:44] - When people are upset, especially children, they revert to the behavior of a younger child, which creates frustration for parents.

[7:01] - Self-regulation can be a primary barrier to being able to think and problem solve.

[8:54] - Taking a moment to regulate your emotions as a parent is a form of modeling, as long as you return to the moment and explain.

[10:44] - There’s no instruction manual, and parenting a child with learning differences certainly does not have a rule book.

[13:26] - It is incredibly important to parents to understand their child’s differences.

[16:07] - As parents, we like to think we have a bag of tricks, but some of these tricks don’t work every time.

[18:00] - Social media is great in creating a sense of community. But the information there is not always vetted and can have a lot of misinformation.

[20:58] - Resources at Understood.org are completely free and accessible.

[23:51] - One strategy is to reflect on how realistic our expectations are regarding a child’s behavior.

[25:30] - Consequences for behaviors need to also be realistic based on the situation, the child, the behavior, and whether natural consequences take place.

[26:37] - If you can’t handle your child being in distress, as a parent, you will be in more distress.

[28:06] - If a parent does not give their child moments of failure, they will feel invincible as they grow up.

[30:16] - It is important for parents to care for themselves. This is also an important modeling opportunity for children.

Dr. Andrew Kahn is Understood’s Associate Director of Behavior Change and Expertise, and is a licensed psychologist. He focuses on ADHD, learning differences, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, behavior, executive function, and emotional regulation. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Kahn worked within the public school system providing training, evaluations, direct consultation, and therapeutic support to students, their families, and staff. 

• Understood Blog

• Dr. Andrew Kahn on LinkedIn

• Understood.org

• Parenting Behavior with Dr. Andy Kahn: Your Guide to Getting Through the Hard Stuff

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses on ADHD, Dyslexia and Youth Anxiety 

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.

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’ll be diving into the Science of Reading with our guest, Dr. Benjamin Powers. If you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how students learn to read, this episode is packed with insights on evidence-based reading instruction and how it can transform classrooms.

Dr. Benjamin Powers is an educator, researcher, and thought leader who believes that cerebrodiverse learners should be embraced for their strengths and potential. Throughout his career, he has championed evidence-based approaches that recognize individual strengths, promote independent thinking, develop self-esteem and self-advocacy, and fuel academic achievement.

In this episode, you’ll learn what the Science of Reading is and how decades of research can give teachers the tools that can truly empower them to improve outcomes for all students. One particularly eye-opening aspect of our conversation is how much researchers have learned about reading from studying individuals with reading and language-based learning disabilities. 

Dr. Powers also shares about the systemic challenges educators face, from curriculum selection to a need for comprehensive teacher training in the Science of Reading. He believes each of these barriers presents an opportunity for positive change and encourages educators and parents to take small steps that will lead to meaningful improvements.

[2:02] - Dr. Powers explains what the Science of Reading is and how it differs from other approaches in education. It is a combination of decades of research.

[4:10] - The research of the Science of Reading has come from college departments of psychology, and there is a delay in getting the research to educators.

[6:44] - Part of how we know so much about the reading brain, is because of those with disabilities.

[8:49] - By bringing in evidence-based reading practices, teachers feel empowered and reading instruction outcomes are improved.

[11:12] - Dr. Powers compares early intervention to learning a second language.

[13:59] - Many words that students encounter early in school differ greatly from those in later grade levels when the language shifts to textbook, multisyllabic words.

[17:56] - It is important for parents to ask questions. Some parents hesitate to ask questions to better understand instruction and curriculum.

[19:40] - There are things that we can do as parents to help support reading instruction.

[21:40] - Sometimes administrators are put into a tricky position as they evaluate and vet curriculum.

[23:59] - Each barrier is an opportunity for change.

[26:24] - One huge opportunity is for teachers to be trained in the Science of Reading, no matter what subject they teach. In every class, students are reading.

[29:58] - A student’s ability is not a reflection on the teacher’s intention.

[32:16] - Taking the first step is what starts a crucial change.

Dr. Benjamin Powers holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from Grenoble Ecole de Management, an Executive MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology, and a Bachelor of Arts from La Salle University. He is a Certified Dyslexia Practitioner, a member of the International Dyslexia Association, and an associate member of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators.

He is Executive Director of The Southport School and CoLAB, Director of Yale’s and UCONN Haskins’ Global Literacy Hubs, and President of The Dyslexia Foundation. He holds appointments in the Yale School of Medicine’s Child Study Center, and in the Departments of Psychology and Educational Psychology at UCONN. 

• Email: [email protected]

• Southport Schools Website

• Episode 111: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing the Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz

• Episode 37: Literacy, a Social Justice Issue with Resha Conroy

• Dyslexia

• Improving Literacy

• Dyslexia Foundation

• Get on our Email List

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses for PARENTS on Dyslexia, ADHD or Childhood Anxiety Sessions

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.

It’s not only ADHD Awareness Month, it is also Dyslexia Awareness Month! So today, let’s revisit a conversation with Dr. Sally Shaywitz about overcoming dyslexia and addressing the reading crisis, which is still relevant and a huge concern.

We are in the midst of a reading crisis in the United States. This problem has existed for a long time, but it was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been said that the pandemic has caused the loss of 2 decades worth of progress made in reading. We have the knowledge, research, and science to address this issue, but we are lacking action.

Today’s guest is Dr. Sally Shaywitz, one of the world’s preeminent experts on reading and dyslexia and author of Overcoming Dyslexia. Dyslexia is the most common learning disorder on the planet, affecting about one in five individuals, regardless of age or gender. In today’s episode, Dr. Shaywitz shares what is known about dyslexia, the 40 years of data to show what works in overcoming dyslexia, and the sad reality that there is little action being taken to improve screening students and providing the appropriate interventions.

There is so much we can do and it all starts with understanding. 

[3:31] - Regardless of decades of research, there are still a lot of misconceptions.

[4:44] - Dyslexia is a very specific learning disability, but the term “learning disability” is very vague.

[6:21] - Through brain imaging, Dr. Shaywitz was able to determine the neuro signature of dyslexia.

[8:21] - Educators, parents, and the individual with dyslexia need to know that they are intelligent and have the intelligence to read, but dyslexia makes it a struggle.

[9:58] - Dyslexia is common in all areas of the world. The consequences are similar in all cultures.

[11:06] - Those with dyslexia can be good readers while still reading slowly.

[12:02] - The most important step is for the student to be identified as dyslexic.

[13:34] - Through her studies, Dr. Shaywitz has nearly 40 years worth of data for both typical readers and dyslexic readers from childhood to adulthood.

[14:50] - Indicators of dyslexia can be seen as early as first grade. Identifying those at risk for developing dyslexia and intervening early can accelerate reading growth.

[16:06] - Screening can take place later, but by then, the window of time for the most reading growth has passed.

[18:03] - Currently, we are scoring worse in previous years in identifying dyslexia in young students.

[19:09] - Dr. Shaywitz describes the screener used to determine the risk of dyslexia.

[21:08] - A universal screener is a solution to this reading crisis.

[22:13] - Given that we know a great deal about dyslexia, it is disgraceful that more isn’t being done to support students.

[23:14] - ADHD and anxiety often co-occur with dyslexia.

[24:36] - We often hyperfocus on the struggles, but what are the common strengths for those with dyslexia?

[25:42] - School policies and teacher training surrounding dyslexia need to be changed.

[26:46] - There is also research on individuals incarcerated who are also dyslexic.

[28:06] - Dr. Shaywitz offers a course on Coursera that can be found here.

[30:36] - We need screening, intervention, and education for parents, teachers, and students.

Sally E. Shaywitz, M.D. is the Audrey G. Ratner Professor in Learning Development at Yale University and Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity. She is a world renowned scientist and dedicated, compassionate physician who is devoted to bringing ground-breaking scientific advances to benefit dyslexic children and adults.

• Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz, MD

• Overcoming Dyslexia Online Course with Sally Shaywitz, MD

• What is Dyslexia?

• 6 Quick Questions for Parents Concerned About Dyslexia

• ChildNEXUS Dyslexia Mini Course for Parents

Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com

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.

It is ADHD Awareness Month, and we are revisiting an excellent conversation with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw about ADHD in girls. We’ve discussed ADHD on the podcast before and it continues to be an important topic. Dr. Stephen Hinshaw has conducted years of research including a longitudinal study on girls with ADHD and his findings are not only fascinating but important to consider especially if you are the parent of a daughter with ADHD.

Dr. Hinshaw wrote a book called Straight Talk About ADHD in Girls: How to Help Your Daughter Thrive. Parenting a daughter with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is no easy path, especially because of the myth that the disorder is rare or nonexistent in girls. In his book, Dr. Hinshaw provides vital information and advice to help you understand and meet your daughter’s needs. And in this episode, he does the same. He delivers up-to-date facts on what ADHD is, why symptoms often appear differently in girls than in boys, why girls with ADHD behave the way they do, how to get an accurate diagnosis, and what treatments are most effective.

There is so much pressure on girls to be perfect and for those with ADHD, it feels especially hard to measure up. The social stigmas and academic challenges ADHD presents to girls are often isolating and painful. So listen to Dr. Hinshaw explain the science behind it all and what we can do as parents and educators to help our girls with ADHD.

[2:42] - ADHD is more prevalent in boys than girls, but why?

[3:43] - Because of the difference in development, symptoms of ADHD in girls are often overlooked.

[4:47] - Girls with ADHD tend to show their symptoms differently. Many don’t get diagnosed until they are teenagers or even young adults.

[5:48] - ADHD causes problems with the self-regulation of attention.

[7:36] - Some girls may show their hyperactivity verbally instead of physically.

[9:03] - Dr. Hinshaw conducted the largest longitudinal study on girls with ADHD.

[9:57] - In childhood, girls with ADHD are just as impaired as boys. Socially, they tend to get rejected by their peers more so than boys.

[11:46] - Dr. Hinshaw shares the differences in the larger consequences like delinquency, substance use, and mental health.

[13:54] - ADHD increases the risk of self-harm and suicide.

[15:28] - Low self-esteem, difficult peer relationships, and increasing academic struggles, make things challenging in young adulthood too.

[17:21] - Across many studies and types of research, both males and females and the differences between them are not taken into consideration.

[23:20] - Milder conditions or conditions that don’t have as many outward indicators, result in more stigma.

[26:53] - Motivation, regulation, and even medication are things to be considered.

[27:48] - What are your daughter’s strengths?

[28:51] - One valued and strong friendship can offset the social complications they experience.

[30:05] - Research has shown that parents of girls with ADHD tend to have much more parental stress. Parent management training is beneficial.

Stephen P. Hinshaw is Distinguished Professor of Psychology at UC Berkeley and Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UC San Francisco. His work focuses on developmental psychopathology, child and adolescent mental health (particularly ADHD), and the use of clinical trials to understand underlying mechanisms. He also actively investigates mental illness stigma and interventions to reduce it. Hinshaw has authored over 400 articles, chapters, and commentaries plus 13 books. He has won numerous national and international research awards, including the James McKeen Cattell Fellow Award from the Association for Psychological Science, the Distinguished Scientific Contributions Award from the American Psychological Association, and the Sarnat International Prize in Mental Health from the National Academy of Medicine. He was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2021. His extensive media coverage includes the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Today Show, CBS Evening News, ABC World News Tonight, and many more. 

• Email: [email protected]

• Hinshaw Lab at The Institution of Human Development at Berkeley

• Dr. Stephen Hinshaw’s Website

• Getting Ahead of ADHD: What Next-Generation Science Says about Treatments that Work and How you can Make them Work for Your Child by Dr. Joel Nigg

• Is ADHD Overdiagnosed?

• What are the signs of ADHD?

• Understanding ADHD Assessments

Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com

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.

It is ADHD Awareness Month, and we are committed to providing resources and information that increase understanding about ADHD. Today, let’s revisit an episode with Dr. Joel Nigg about lifestyle activities that can improve ADHD symptoms.

Dr. Joel Nigg, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at Oregon Health and Science University, is the author of the book Getting Ahead of ADHD. In this episode, he offers great insight, describes some ADHD research studies, and gives actionable steps to take now to help children thrive at school and in life. 

We discuss things to look for regarding ADHD symptoms and some simple changes in our daily routines as families that can make a huge impact. Dr. Nigg is doing fantastic work with the OHSU Center for ADHD Research and I am thrilled to revisit this podcast episode.

[2:55] - There has been an increase in parents seeking evaluations for ADHD after seeing children learn from home.

[3:47] - Dr. Nigg shares some data that shows the impact of distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic across the world.

[5:01] - For those already diagnosed with ADHD, services were challenging during the pandemic and school closures.

[6:25] - You lose the advantage of a teacher’s perspective when learning from home. Demands at home from a parent are much different than those in the classroom.

[7:42] - Dr. Nigg recommends seeking services for the difficulties the child is experiencing 

[10:39] - A valuable goal is to think hard about structuring your day to fit self care in.

[12:23] - Another factor that impacts mental health is sleep and the quality of rest.

[15:00] - The key is to shift the thinking around sleep to be positive. Counselors can help with this transition.

[19:52] - Family rules for a screen-free bedtime are hard to follow, but they are important.

[20:54] - Dr. Nigg addresses the claim that high levels of screen time causes ADHD.

[22:25] - Media content needs to be monitored for children and teens even though it is a part of their social experience.

[25:16] - Children with ADHD are more inclined to experience depression and anxiety.

[29:33] - Children need to be prepared for possible changes again as they go back to school.

[32:27] - Medical centers around the world have websites with tons of resources. They will also have current and updated recommendations and guidelines.

[33:36] - Dr. Nigg’s book is a great resource for parents of children with ADHD.

Joel Nigg, Ph.D., is a Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Vice Chair for Psychology, and Director of the Center for ADHD Research at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon. He obtained his AB at Harvard College, MSW at The University of Michigan, and PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of California at Berkeley. He is a licensed clinical psychologist with clinical experience in multiple settings. He is a leading researcher in the area of developmental psychopathology with a focus on ADHD. He is the author of 2 books on ADHD including a recent book written for parents: Getting Ahead of ADHD: What Next-Generation Science Says about Treatments that Work and How you can Make them Work for Your Child. His work has been funded continuously by NIMH for over 20 years. The recipient of several awards, Dr. Nigg has served on the editorial boards of several leading scientific journals.

• Joel Nigg, Ph.D Home Page

• Twitter  |  Facebook

• Getting Ahead of ADHD: What Next-Generation Science Says about Treatments that Work and How you can Make them Work for Your Child by Dr. Joel Nigg

• Is ADHD Overdiagnosed?

• What are the signs of ADHD?

• Understanding ADHD Assessments

Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com

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.

In today’s episode, I’m focusing on a topic that impacts millions of children, teens, and adults: ADHD assessments. ADHD is a chronic condition that often persists throughout life, so understanding the assessment process is crucial for setting families up for long-term success. I’ll be diving into various aspects of this process, exploring the multiple steps involved to ensure that the diagnosis is thorough and accurate. From clinical interviews to lifestyle assessments, there are several key factors that play a role in understanding ADHD and its impact on a person’s daily life.

Listen to learn the steps in an ADHD assessment, why each step is important, and how this evidence-based approach ensures that children and families receive the support they need.

[1:36] - ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood. It is not something children grow out of.

[2:29] - Assessments include multiple steps, beginning with a thorough clinical interview.

[3:58] - A lifestyle assessment is important as well and includes looking into sleep habits, diet, and screen use.

[5:59] - It is also a part of an ADHD assessment to review a child’s functioning across multiple settings.

[7:35] - ADHD is never diagnosed based on test scores alone.

[8:24] - You do not need a neuropsychological assessment to diagnose ADHD.

[9:28] - No ADHD assessment is complete without a feedback session.

[11:33] - This evidence-based approach ensures that children and families receive an accurate diagnosis and the right support.

• Episode 33: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 101 with Dr. Nicholas Thaler

• Episode 148: How Sleep Affects Academic Performance and Mood

• Episode 160: The Sleep Deprived Teen with Lisa Lewis

• Navigating the Challenges of Social Media for Neurodivergent Youth

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

• Get on our Email List

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions

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.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a subject we haven’t yet explored on this podcast: eating disorders. This is an issue that affects millions of people worldwide, including many children and adolescents. For some, it’s a deeply personal battle that often goes unnoticed by those around them. Research even suggests that certain groups, like girls with ADHD, might be at greater risk of developing eating disorders. 

In today’s conversation, we’re joined by Robyn Goldberg, author of The Eating Disorder Trap. Robyn is here to shed light on this complex mental health issue and help debunk some common misconceptions. Many people think eating disorders are solely about food, but as we’ll discuss, they’re far more intricate—often tied to deeper emotional and psychological concerns.

Robyn covers red flags that parents and caregivers should be aware of and discusses the role that shame, depression, and anxiety play in these struggles. She also touches on the impact of diet culture and how it affects us all. Robyn offers practical advice for parents navigating this journey and even shares details about her free online course for caregivers.

[1:58] - The number of people who struggle with an eating disorder is startling.

[3:23] - Eating disorders are not about the food. It is a complex mental health concern.

[4:28] - Robyn shares common misconceptions, starting with the stereotyped appearance of someone with an eating disorder.

[5:41] - The most common eating disorder that is rarely talked about is binge eating. Robyn also discusses other disorders, like ARFID.

[7:47] - Robyn wrote a book that was released right before Covid lockdowns and she describes how it is written for everyone.

[9:57] - Doctors and clinicians can be very overwhelming to those struggling with answering questions about their eating disorders.

[12:18] - There has been a significant rise in mental health problems, including eating disorders, since the pandemic.

[15:03] - Robyn lists some of the frequently seen impacts on physical health that eating disorders have.

[17:01] - Things get complicated and confusing when parents have not resolved their own issues with eating.

[19:12] - Robyn describes some red flags that could be signs of an eating disorder.

[21:05] - Depression and anxiety can be heightened when malnourished.

[22:25] - Research shows that girls with ADHD are at greater risk for eating disorders.

[24:40] - There is a free online course that Robyn offers for caregivers who are helping someone with an eating disorder.

[27:52] - Oftentimes, there is a lot of shame around eating disorders.

[29:44] - What does treatment typically look like? It depends on the type of eating disorder, but Robyn explains what parents should expect.

[33:03] - There are things that parents and families can do to help support their child or teen.

[34:04] - No one is immune to diet culture. It is everywhere and all-consuming.

Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C is a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified eating disorder specialist and consultant (CEDS-C), certified intuitive eating counselor and a Health at Every Size® (HAES) clinician. 

Robyn began her career at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles as the in-patient dietitian in the Department of Cardiology. For the last 26 years, she has had a private practice in Beverly Hills, CA, where she specializes in medical conditions, eating disorders, disordered eating, dual diagnosis, pre-pregnancy nutrition and women seeking fertility treatment.

• Your Recovery Resource Free Course

• (310) 273-0413

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• Ask About Food Website

• The Eating Disorder Trap by Robyn L. Goldberg

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions

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.

Welcome to this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning, where we dive into a topic that is of growing interest to parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with ADHD: integrative treatments for ADHD symptoms. Today’s guest, Sara Langley, is an expert in Nutritional Psychiatry and will share valuable insights on how diet and integrative approaches can complement traditional ADHD treatments.

ADHD is the most searched topic on ChildNEXUS, and our episodes on ADHD are among the most downloaded. It’s clear that parents and caregivers are eager to learn about different options to support their children, and this episode is packed with useful information.

Sara specializes in how diet can impact mood and behavior, and she offers practical advice on where to begin. She suggests some starting points, but acknowledges that making dietary changes can feel overwhelming, so she shares helpful tips for parents on how to start small and build from there.

Throughout the episode, Sara discusses the common challenges faced by children with ADHD and the supplements that can help. While she emphasizes that nutrition isn’t a “cure” for a problem, it is an important piece of the puzzle. Sara also highlights the strong connection between the gut and brain and how addressing this can benefit not only ADHD symptoms but overall well-being.

If you’re looking for new ways to support your child or simply curious about how integrative approaches can complement traditional treatments, you won’t want to miss this episode!

[3:16] - Sara specializes in Nutritional Psychiatry, which is about how diet can impact mood and behavior.

[5:16] - One good starting place that Sara recommends is to start integrating probiotics.

[6:28] - Supplements are commonly asked about by parents of children with ADHD and there are several that could benefit as an addition to a vitamin rich diet.

[9:17] - A lot of time, we cannot get the full nutritional benefit from the food we eat due to different factors.

[10:43] - It can be very overwhelming to parents to make dietary changes. Sara gives some tips on where to start.

[12:30] - Generally, children with ADHD have trouble falling asleep. There are supplements that can help with this as well.

[13:53] - Nutrition is part of a puzzle. It isn’t a “cure”.

[17:18] - Working with a mental health professional or pediatrician can help guide a parent in choosing the right things for their child.

[18:40] - There is a connection between the gut and the brain.

[22:31] - It is tricky for many parents to make dietary changes due to the pickiness of their child as an eater and their need for quick dopamine through snacking.

[23:47] - Some parents are seeking something different from medication.

[25:59] - This integrative approach benefits more than ADHD symptoms.

Sara Langley is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating children and adolescents with brain-based medical conditions. She is double board-certified in both Primary Care and Psychiatry. A graduate of the Columbia University School of Nursing, class of 2014, she later earned her Post Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from UCSF and completed a Fellowship in Primary Care Psychiatry with UCI. Additionally, she holds a certification in Nutritional Psychiatry through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute.

In her practice, Sara integrates Nutritional Psychiatry, focusing on how diet affects mood and behavior, and Functional Psychiatry, which aims to identify and treat the root causes of mental illness. This is combined with FDA-approved traditional medication management, providing families with care that is truly comprehensive and balanced.

• ChildNEXUS Provider Profile

• Email: [email protected]

• Child Kind Psychiatry Website

• ADHD for Parents: An Integrative Approach

• Episode 124: A Non-Medication Treatment for Children with ADHD with Dr. Sandra Loo

• Episode 40: Lifestyle Activities That Can Improve ADHD Symptoms with Dr. Joel Nigg

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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.