Guest: Ruby Orwenyo, PhD, MA, LMSW

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/sensory-gyms-and-glp

In this episode, host Corinne Zmoos, a CCC-SLP, discusses the importance of creating sensory-friendly environments for neurodivergent children with guest Dr. Ruby Orwenyo, a behavioral scientist with a PhD in social work. Dr. Orwenyo shares the inspiring story behind BeeZee Sensory Gym, which she co-founded with her sister to provide a safe and inclusive space for children with sensory processing differences. The discussion highlights the importance of incorporating music, movement, and rhythmic rehabilitation to enhance language and motor development in children with autism. The topic extends to cultural perspectives on music's role in learning and social cohesion. Tune in to gain valuable insights into creating spaces that allow neurodivergent children to thrive.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:26 Meet Dr. Ruby Orwenyo: Background and Expertise

02:54 Journey into Linguistics and Social Work

05:19 Creating BeeZee Sensory Gym: A Labor of Love

13:04 Designing a Sensory-Friendly Environment

31:57 The Importance of Visual and Auditory Simplicity

36:12 The Impact of Tempo on Mood and Regulation

36:38 Entrainment: Syncing Inner and Outer Rhythms

37:45 Practical Applications of Music in Everyday Life

38:59 Study Highlight: Rhythm, Movement, and Autism

39:51 Proprioception and Movement in Autistic Children

41:27 Using Rhythm to Aid Proprioception

43:48 Gestalt Processing and Music

48:37 Cultural Perspectives on Music and Language Development

01:00:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Ruby Orwenyo, PhD, MA, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker, Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work, and mother to an autistic child. Ruby has extensive experience in case and program management, working with diverse populations in the U.S. and internationally. She specializes in supporting minoritized individuals navigating workplace discrimination and microaggressions, helping them advocate for themselves and cope effectively. Ruby is also the co-founder of BeeZee Sensory Gym, which was developed in recognition that "inclusive" play environments often fall short in truly accommodating neurodivergent children.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Guest: Cassidy Quick, MA, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/compliance-and-connection

Join Corinne Zmoos and guest Cassidy Quick in the season 2 premiere of 'The gestalt get-together!' This episode dives deep into the world of Gestalt Language Processing (GLP), AAC integration, and the core principle of connection over compliance in speech therapy. Cassidy shares her transition from a compliance-based approach to a connection-focused practice, highlighting the importance of therapeutic presence and how to build authentic relationships with clients. They explore actionable strategies for ensuring AAC device relevance and engagement, critically evaluating traditional goal-setting methods, and fostering a deeper understanding of how our therapeutic presence affects client outcomes. Ideal for speech therapists seeking to expand their scope and invest in evidence-based, data-driven practices.

Episode Timeline:

00:25 Introduction to Gestalt Language Processing

02:08 Meet Our Guest: Cassidy Quick

02:52 Cassidy's Career Journey

06:08 Building Connection Over Compliance

07:44 Challenges in Implementing AAC in Schools

12:42 Programming AAC for Gestalt Language Processors

25:43 Therapeutic Presence and Polyvagal Theory

27:37 The Impact of Self-Integration on Therapy

28:13 Pulling from Other Disciplines

29:30 The Disconnect in Clinical Practice

31:00 Therapeutic Presence and Safety

35:57 Rethinking Goals and Progress

42:49 Child-Led Therapy and Compliance

44:07 Gestalt Psychology and Therapeutic Presence

54:32 Final Thoughts and Resources

About the Guest: Cassidy Quick, MS, CCC-SLP, is a speech pathologist and self-proclaimed “AAC lover” who owns a private practice for children with complex communication needs. She studied at West Chester University and gained experience in a private autism school and early intervention. Cassidy supports children with echolalia, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and parent coaching.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Guest: Bridget Hoffman, MA, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.15 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/preschool-glps

Join host Corinne Zmoos and guest Bridget Hoffman in this episode of the Gestalt Get Together podcast as they delve into the intricacies of Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) within the realm of early intervention. Corinne and Bridget discuss strategies for fostering relationships with teachers and parents, the importance of understanding varied value systems, and innovative approaches for integrating Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices in preschool settings. Learn how to effectively build therapeutic alliances to create a supportive environment for autistic children and individuals with learning differences (GLPs), and gain insights into blending Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles into your practice. This engaging conversation touches on practical tips, personal anecdotes, and evidence-based practices to enhance your work with GLPs and their educational ecosystems.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Welcome to the Gestalt Get Together

01:53 Introducing Bridget Hoffman

02:52 Bridget's Journey into Early Intervention

07:41 Building Rapport with Teachers

18:43 The Importance of Values in Therapy

39:00 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Practice

49:02 Exploring ACT and ABA in Therapy

50:28 Speech Therapy and ABA: Bridging the Gap

51:12 Challenges and Realities of ABA

53:33 Introducing AAC in Early Intervention

54:54 Strategies for AAC Implementation

58:46 Building Connections Through AAC

01:22:10 Therapeutic Alliance and Secondary Systems

01:26:00 Conclusion and Resources

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Earn 0.15 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=SelfAdvocacy-and-AAC

Join us in this captivating episode of the Gestalt Get Together, where Corinne Zmoos delves into the intersection of Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) with special guest and speech-language pathologist, Brianna Guerrero. From personal anecdotes of working with GLP clients to discussions of bodily autonomy, advocacy, and inclusivity, this conversation is brimming with valuable insights. Learn how creating tailored AAC strategies and collaborating with other professionals can enrich the lives of neurodivergent individuals, and discover the importance of preparing clients for medical procedures through sensory and language experiences. Don't miss this invaluable dialogue geared towards growing your knowledge base and boosting your confidence in working with GLPs.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to the Gestalt Get Together Podcast

01:33 Meet Brianna Guerrero: A Passionate Speech Language Pathologist

02:14 Brianna's Journey with Gestalt Language Processors

05:03 The Role of AAC in Communication

06:58 Client Success Stories with AAC

14:35 Self-Advocacy and Its Importance

26:00 Challenges and Strategies in AAC Implementation

33:30 Ethical Considerations in AAC and Physical Prompting

46:33 Collaborative Approach to AAC and Motor Planning

47:57 End Silence Project: AAC Users and Abuse

49:09 Motor Differences and Sensory Processing in Autism

50:17 Challenges in Communicating Pain and Discomfort

53:11 Technical Difficulties and Communication Breakdown

54:07 Reflecting on Body Scheme Representation

01:08:18 Preparing for Medical Procedures with AAC

01:16:52 Advocacy and Resources for AAC Users

01:29:28 Final Thoughts and Resources

About the Guest: Brianna Guerrero, MS, CCC-SLP, founded Lotus Bloom Speech Therapy Inc. She is a certified bilingual (English/Spanish) speech-language pathologist and received her master's degree at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona. Brianna has experience working in school, clinic, and home settings, specializing in supporting individuals with complex communication needs, augmentative and alternative communication, and scripting (gestalt language processing). The mission of Lotus Bloom Speech is to provide neurodiversity affirming, strengths-based, child-led speech therapy services. Brianna strives to continue learning and growing in her practice as a therapist, helping children blossom into the best versions of their authentic selves.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Guest: Monica Reaves, LCSW-C, M.Ed.

Earn 0.15 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=An-Interprofessional-Discussion-About-GLPs-and-Imagery

Join Corinne Zmoos in an illuminating episode as she welcomes guest Monica Reaves, a clinical social worker and special education teacher, to discuss Gestalt Language Processing (GLP). Monica shares profound insights from her professional experience and personal life, raising an autistic child who is a GLP. The episode explores strategies for connecting with GLP kids, understanding their unique expressions, and promoting an inclusive environment both at home and in clinical settings. Learn about the importance of detective work, the role of special interests, and the use of declarative language to improve communication with GLP individuals. Whether you're a speech therapist, a parent, or a professional working with neurodiverse individuals, this episode is packed with valuable information and practical takeaways.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:42 Meet Monica Reaves: A Unique Perspective

03:15 Understanding Gestalt Language Processing

05:38 GLP at Home: Personal Experiences

07:56 Clinical Insights and Therapeutic Approaches

18:35 The Role of Metaphors in Therapy

40:45 Building Rapport and De-escalation Techniques

46:41 Exploring Somatic Techniques

49:16 The Power of Declarative Language

54:49 Self-Advocacy in Pre-Teen GLP Life

01:03:22 Analogical Reasoning and Special Interests

01:19:48 Building Trust Through Special Interests

01:25:25 Q&A and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Monica Reaves, LCSW-C, M.Ed., is a clinical social worker with 14 years of experience in various settings, including mental health clinics, hospital psychiatric units, forensic interviewing for child welfare services, and special education environments. For the past 9 years, Monica has also worked as a special education teacher, providing individualized and group instruction in both private homes and clinic settings. She hold a Master's degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration in children and families from the University of Maryland, Baltimore's School of Social Work, and a Master’s degree in Education with a concentration in special education with a certificate in autism from George Mason University's College of Education and Human Development. Monica's practice, My Pace Learning and Behavioral Health, supports neurodiverse clients in making empowered choices and achieving their goals, while providing tools to help navigate a neurotypical world.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Guest: Rachel Gorman, MS, CCC-SLP, TSSLD

Earn 0.15 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Monotropism-in-Gestalt-Language-Processors

In this episode, Corinne dives deep into GLP (Gestalt Language Processing), the autistic neurotype, and the importance of musical language and psychoacoustics. Corinne is joined by fellow Speech-Language Pathologist Rachel Gorman, and together, they explore the concept of monotropism, attention tunnels, and neurodiversity-affirming strategies in therapy. Learn about the latest insights and methodologies to enhance your practice and support GLP clients effectively. Join us for an engaging discussion rooted in scholarly research, personal anecdotes, and innovative therapeutic approaches.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to The Gestalt Get-Together

01:46 Meet Rachel Gorman: From Dance to Speech Pathology

06:44 Understanding Monotropism and Attention Tunnels

12:14 The Theory of Monotropism and Its Implications

24:22 Attention Funnels: A Deeper Dive

28:10 Practical Applications and Personal Anecdotes

48:52 Discovering the Melody in Communication

50:08 Exploring AAC Software: Grid

52:34 Engaging with Autistic Clients through Interests

55:04 Skilled Noticing and Gentle Joining

56:36 The Importance of Predictable Structures

01:03:57 Using Special Interests in Therapy

01:15:47 Building Super Highways in the Brain

01:22:23 Joining the Sensory Experience

01:31:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Rachel Gorman, M.S. CCC-SLP, is a dedicated speech-language pathologist and owns Every Mind Speech LLC, a pediatric private practice in Ridgefield, CT. Her practice specializes in Gestalt Processing, Verbal Dyspraxia, and Social-Cognitive Processing, emphasizing trauma-informed, sensory-regulating, and neurodiversity-affirming care. As a multi-neurodivergent individual and parent of a GLP and PDA-er, Rachel brings both personal insights and professional expertise to her work. She is passionate about normalizing disability and enhancing caregiver-child joy and connection through coaching, observation, and clinical education. With a BFA in dance and experience as a professional modern dancer in NYC, Rachel naturally integrates rhythm and movement into her therapeutic approach to supporting GLPs and the individuals lucky enough to know them.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Enhancing Language Through Music: Exploring Gestalt Language Processing and Melodies - A presentation by Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC SLP, as part of the Gestalt Get-Together webinar series and podcast.

Earn 0.15 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Segmentation-and-Extraction-Ann-Peters-Heuristics-and-the-Im

In this episode of the Gestalt Get Together, speech-language pathologist Corinne Zmoos delves into the world of Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and its critical relationship with linguistics and psychoacoustics. Corinne introduces Anne Peters' 1983 seminal work 'Units of Language Acquisition', exploring foundational concepts like heuristic segmentation, extraction, and slot-and-frame relationships essential to language development. With practical techniques and examples, she explains five key saliency heuristics (meaning, silence, super segmentals, tune, and rhythm) and their therapeutic implications, particularly for neurodivergent and autistic children. This 1.5-hour podcast recording offers invaluable insights for SLPs and parents, designed to enhance understanding and effective intervention strategies in GLP.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to the Gestalt Get Together

00:57 Exploring Anne Peters' Units of Language Acquisition

02:42 Understanding Heuristic Segmentation and Extraction

03:51 The Challenge of Language Extraction for Children

09:04 The Role of Technology in Language Learning

11:37 Ann Peters' Contributions to Linguistics

17:46 Heuristics in Language Acquisition

22:51 Saliency Heuristics: Meaning and Silence

37:04 Super Segmental Heuristics and Their Importance

46:40 Tune and Rhythm in Language Acquisition

48:57 A Surprising Gestalt Moment

50:29 The Power of Tune and Rhythm

51:28 Leveraging Musical Language

52:18 Acknowledging and Reinforcing Attempts

53:16 Introduction to Segmentation

55:35 Segmentation Strategies and Heuristics

58:21 Internal Segmentation Heuristics

01:06:13 Understanding Frames and Formulas

01:14:59 Practical Applications of Frames

01:27:46 Conclusion and Further Resources

Here is the link for the referenced text: https://communicationdevelopmentcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Units-of-Language-Acquisition.pdf

About the Presenter:

Corinne Zmoos, M.S. CCC-SLP, is a musical speech-language pathologist in Baltimore, Maryland. Her private practice, Messy Happy Music Lab, specializes in neurodivergent language acquisition, musical language therapy, Gestalt Processing, and AAC. As a neurodivergent individual, Corinne deeply understands how music lights up the brains of nontraditional learners and facilitates progress rooted in joy rather than compliance. Corinne presents her framework for music theory nationally and internationally as a critical element and intervention consideration in Gestalt Language Processing. Corinne’s current areas of qualitative inquiry are auditory-motor rhythmic cueing, musical syntax as a vehicle for linguistic syntax, and timbre-experience matching.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Original Enhancing Language Through Music: Exploring Gestalt Language Processing and Melodies - A presentation by Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC SLP, as part of the Gestalt Get-Together webinar series and podcast.

Earn 0.2 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=The-Gestalt-Get-Together-Supports-Grammar-of-GLP-

Join Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC-SLP, and Marge Blanc, MA, CCC-SLP, for an episode about the support we can provide at each of the six stages of NLA, especially regarding the nuance of stages 4-6! So, if you feel confident about Gestalts and mitigations but get nervous about grammar, this is the episode for you!

About the Guest:

Marge Blanc is the director of the Communication Development Center in Madison, Wisconsin, USA, and author of Natural Language Acquisition on the Autism Spectrum: The Journey from Echolalia to Self-Generated Language (2012). As a speech-language pathologist for 45+ years, Marge met her first autistic gestalt language processor as a clinical associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Marge subsequently founded the CDC clinic in Madison to serve autistic clients and others who benefit from sensorimotor support. Marge conducted clinical research in her practice, detailing gestalt language development in various children and young adults. Her longitudinal findings described and quantified the stages of gestalt language development outlined by Barry Prizant and supported by the research findings of Ann Peters.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Original Enhancing Language Through Music: Exploring Gestalt Language Processing and Melodies - A presentation by Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC SLP, as part of the Gestalt Get-Together webinar series and podcast.

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=The-Gestalt-Get-Together-Supporting-GLPs-through-an-Interdis

In this episode, Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC-SLP, is joined by Townsend Janney, MS, CCC-SLP, as they discuss how to connect with a professional from another discipline about GLPs on their caseload. In addition, melody matching with GLPs that are not yet intelligible will be explored. Finally, Scriptionary will be introduced and explained how it could support the team of a GLP.

About the Guest:

Townsend Janney, MSW, RBT (she/her) is an early intervention Developmental Therapist passionate about social justice. Having earned her Master of Social Work at Gallaudet University, Townsend has had the privilege to learn about disability from a cultural framework and is passionate about full communication access for all of our neighbors. Townsend lives in Washington, D.C., and spends her free time cheering on her favorite sports teams, watching nature documentaries, and trying new coffee shops. Townsend is learning more about AAC every day and is excited to dive deeper into the subject of natural language acquisition.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1

Enhancing Language Through Music: Exploring Gestalt Language Processing and Melodies - A presentation by Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC SLP, as part of the Gestalt Get-Together webinar series and podcast.

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses?query=Early+Signs

In this episode, Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC-SLP, is joined by Hana Brouse, MS, CCC-SLP, to discuss how a coaching model supports caregivers of GLPs & why it can be a preferable model to direct therapy. The guest will also describe some early signs of Gestalt Processing in birth-3 communicators and present a method for coaching families of GLPs in the birth-3 age range.

About the Guest:

Hana Brouse, MS, CCC-SLP, is a Southwest transplant who believes in the power of telling your own story and cutting your hair. They carry curiosity and queer joy alike into their everyday energy as a communication therapist, poetry advocate, and community member.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free Course August 4: Intro to Executive Function Skills for Managing the Home

Enrollment Link: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/executive-function-home-1