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In this episode, Heather and Kerissa chat with Robin Goebel, a former therapist and play therapist, about supporting children with big baffling behaviors and vulnerable nervous systems. Robin discusses her shift from focusing solely on trauma to a broader understanding of neurodivergent minds and the impact of the autonomic nervous system on behavior. She emphasizes the importance of understanding behavior as a response to safety or lack thereof, and the need to support the nervous system rather than trying to control or change behavior. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by parents and the cultural beliefs that contribute to shame and judgment. The conversation explores the concept of felt safety and its impact on the nervous system. It discusses how external demands can turn into internal cues of danger, leading to chronic stress and burnout. The importance of lowering stress levels below the threshold for the stress response system is emphasized. The conversation also highlights the need for a paradigm shift in how we view and support the nervous system. Practical steps for supporting the nervous system include addressing basic needs like food, water, and movement, as well as focusing on regulation, connection, and felt safety.

Robyn Gobbel, MSW, loves coffee, P!NK, and everything about the brain. Once (recently!) her teenager went ballistic on her for getting ANOTHER (glitter!) coffee mug in the mail. Robyn loves cultivating deep, resonant connections with anyone who is up for it, and is especially fond of all the grown-ups in the world who love and care for kids impacted by trauma- helpers, healers, educators, and parents.  Her favorite thing ever (besides glittery coffee mugs) is teaching anyone who will listen to harness the power of neuroscience so they can cultivate deep, resonant connections. What would change in the world if we could all do that? To see, be with, feel, and deeply know each other…and ourselves. Robyn thinks everything could change. 
You can get your hands on all sorts of free resources at www.RobynGobbel.com, including her podcast, The Baffling Behavior Show. Robyn is the author of Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors: Brain-Body-Sensory Strategies that Really Work (September 2023).

Join Heather & Kerissa as they share from an authentic & real-life perspective with in-depth conversations around neurodiversity, PDA autism profile, and the autistic experience. This on occasion includes sensitive and difficult topics. (Topics include but are not limited to;  mental health crisis, depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma, and suicidal ideation.)  All listeners need to be aware of their own emotional wellbeing and ability to engage in such topics.

We offer connection, community & co-regulation. (And a few laughs!)
Journeys With PDA (Heather & Kerissa) and any special guests are not able to diagnose or prescribe treatments. All information is for educational purposes.

To learn more about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) autism profile visit our website at https://journeyswithpda.com/

Heather & Kerissa are Certified PDA Trainers. They offer advocacy, education & family support through one-on-one coaching sessions.
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