Spirited Conversations - Engaging and Elevating Pediatric OT: Recent Episodes
Tracy Stackhouse, Cory Dundon, Michelle Maunder
We are on a mission to build the collective knowledge of paediatric occupational therapists and fellow human beings alike. Most of us are drawn this field because we love children and we believe in the infinite possibility of childhood. But. Once we enter practice, there is often a feeling of being overwhelmed by all there is to know in order to be effective. This podcast was conceived to include you in our SpIRiTed conversations. These discussions have kept us engaged and had an unmeasurable impact on us as therapists. We want to share our regular clinical conversations with others, not knowing all the answers, but allowing each of us to have the space to think and put the pieces together. Tracy’s ability to make clinical reasoning and neuroscience accessible to all is incredibly powerful and worth sharing. ‘Show Notes can be found at www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com
In this episode, we dive into the principles of adaptive responses and just right challenges as laid out by Jean Ayres in sensory integration therapy. We share our experiences and discuss the application of these principles in clinical practice. You’ll hear us talk about the developmental nature of this approach, the role of neuroplasticity, and the importance of individualized treatment. Through our conversation we highlight the significant impact of understanding and using these principles can have on children's functional abilities and overall quality of life.
00:00 Introduction and Excitement About the Sensory Integration and Learning Disorders
00:43 A Funny Story About a Lost Book
05:32 Discussing Adaptive Response and Just Right Challenge
06:55 Reading and Analysing Jean Ayres' Work
14:31 The Importance of Developmental Sequences in Therapy
23:48 Understanding Executive Functions and Developmental Insights
25:00 The Profound Concept of Developmental Approach
25:31 Adaptive Responses and Internal Motivation
27:15 The Just Right Challenge in Therapy
28:43 The Importance of the Spirit Tool
29:58 Tailoring Therapy to Individual Needs
31:44 Trusting the Developmental Process
32:44 Real-Life Success Stories
37:42 Applying Developmental Principles Across Domains
43:03 The Role of Neuroplasticity in Therapy
50:10 Quirky Stories and Insights
53:58 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOT
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OT
Website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/
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In this episode, we delve into the often cited but widely misunderstood concept of 'Follow the Child's Lead'. Through our personal anecdotes, theoretical explorations, and practical insights, we wonder about the origins of this principle, its application across different disciplines and its pivotal role in treatment and intervention strategies. We unpack the nuances of following a child’s lead versus following a child’s need, and the profound impact of tuning into a child’s developmental trajectory for effective treatment. Join us as we dive deep into how this principle shapes our approaches to therapy and beyond, providing actionable takeaways for professionals and parents alike.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction: Exploring Treatment Principles
00:54 Deep Dive into 'Follow the Child's Lead'
02:16 Clinical Perspectives and Personal Stories
03:30 Understanding and Misunderstandings of Following the Child
05:57 Expanding on 'Follow the Child's Lead' with Clinical Insights
32:27 Exploring the Concept of Affordances in Treatment
53:29 Concluding Thoughts on Following the Child's Lead
Both DFX and SEED are growing! Please message us if you are interested in joining either of our teams! <3
Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
For information about Regulation 101 contact info@seedpaediatricservices.com
Full transcription of our episode is available on our website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOT
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OT
Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us? Subscribe to our youtube channel!
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This episode is a detailed conversation about sensory modulation and its application in the field of occupational therapy. It examines various types of behaviours connected to sensory modulation and provides a thorough explanation of how to support individuals dealing with these behaviours. We discuss the intricacies of sensory modulation, particularly sensory over-responsiveness and under-responsiveness, sensory diets, and the impact of arousal and autonomic functions on sensory modulation. Key ideas include distinguishing between positive and negative valence responses, strategies for regulation and recovery, and the role of safety in sensory modulation.
00:00 Introduction and Updates on Training Programs
01:14 Addressing Listener Questions: Sensory Modulation and Language
02:12 Understanding Sensory Modulation and Behavioural Outcomes
04:43 The Complexity of Sensory Modulation and Its Impact on Treatment
08:48 The Importance of Differentiating Sensory Modulation Issues
09:29 The Role of Neurological Structures in Sensory Modulation
10:17 The Influence of Autonomic Functions on Sensory Modulation
11:04 Understanding the Behavioural Outcomes of Sensory Modulation
11:34 The Importance of Precise Differentiation in Sensory Concepts
13:57 The Role of Sensory Modulation in Adaptive Function
16:05 The Impact of Sensory Modulation on Treatment
18:07 The Role of Safety in Sensory Modulation
20:12 The Importance of Understanding Sensory Modulation in Treatment
38:10 The Role of Sensory Diets in Treatment
43:50 Conclusion: The Future of Sensory Modulation Treatment
Full Transcript Available on our website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/
Don’t forget you can take the Spirit and STEPPSI Course through DFX's learning journeys: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
For other courses on offer through Seed, email us for more information:
info@seedpaediatricservices.com
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This is our first ever Guest Episode, and who better to talk to than Kim Barthel!!
In this episode we continue to discuss interoception and making sense of this in treatment. We had a glitch with our video feed this episode so it’s audio only, but we so very excited to finally share this. Our conversation covers many levels, from trying to understand and discern interoception vs neuroception, to understanding interoceptive processing with clinical practice examples and hopefully offers everyone new insights into how we can support individuals with different interoceptive needs.
Kim is currently touring the world and we’re very excited to say is headed to Australia to offer a number of unmissable live, in-person events. You can check out the full list of possible workshops here: https://www.kimbarthel.ca/event-calendar
You can catch and connect with Kim online in a number of places:
https://www.facebook.com/KimBarthelOTR/
https://www.instagram.com/kimbarthel.ca/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK8PsNYNlakx1qx0BCqTg5w?view_as=subscriber
Don’t forget you can take the Spirit and STEPPSI Course through DFX's learning journeys: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
For other courses on offer through Seed, follow our link or email us for more information:
https://seedot.thinkific.com/courses/regulation-101
info@seedpaediatricservices.com
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In this episode we discuss the relationship between interoceptive processing, conscious and subconscious as well as how that relates to the polyvagal theory. We explore how interoception changes in the different states of the nervous system, such as ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal states. We also discuss the role of interoception in emotions and feelings, and how it can impact social interactions. Our conversation begins our discussion around the importance of understanding interoceptive processing in clinical practice and hopefully offers insights into how we can support individuals with different interoceptive needs.
Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
Curious about Regulation 101, follow our link or email us for more information:
https://seedot.thinkific.com/courses/regulation-101
Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and announcement of available training
00:03:23 - Discussion on the relationship between interoception and polyvagal theory
00:06:19 - Importance of understanding the receptors in interoceptive processing
00:08:13 - Interception extends beyond visceral organs to include other receptors
00:09:19 - Interception involves both physical sensations and emotional feelings
00:12:01 - Context of sensation and social touch
00:14:27 - Receptors becoming bristly when not open to receive touch
00:21:13 - Neuroceptive function of comfort and safety
00:23:26 - Tuning into social cues and internal/external focus
00:26:42 - Relationship between state and receptor activation
00:28:20 - Stretch receptors and their role in processing interoceptive information
00:30:07 - Electrical and chemical changes in interoceptive processing
00:31:44 - The role of mismatch and posterior insula in emotion
00:33:59 - Shift from subconscious to awareness-based processing
00:38:44 - Impact of interoception on mobilization
00:41:53 - Tracy discusses the interaction between polyvagal system and interoception
00:43:08 - Tracy explains how states impact interoceptive cues and choices
00:48:42 - Discussion on the role of attention in interoceptive awareness
00:49:52 - The anterior insula's role in drawing attention to interoceptive signals
00:50:59 - Individual differences in valence tipping and interoceptive awareness
00:54:40 - Treatment considerations for interoceptive cues and shame triggers
Key Takeaways:
- Interoception involves the processing of internal bodily sensations and emotions.
- Interoceptive processing is influenced by the state of the nervous system, such as the ventral vagal state, sympathetic state, and dorsal vagal state.
- The quality and function of interoceptive receptors can change depending on the state of the nervous system.
- Interoceptive cues can signal safety or threat, leading to different physiological and emotional responses.
- Attentional processes play a role in interoceptive processing, with the ability to shift attention between internal and external cues.
Our Favourite Quote from this episode:
"The valence-based function of interoception tells us if something is good or bad, and if we want more or less of it." – Tracy M Stackhouse.
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This episode we discuss the importance of the somatosensory system in forming our sense of self through our relationships and how it shapes neurodevelopment. We explore how individuals who have not experienced secure attachment early in life may struggle with somatosensory amplification and somatization later on. We chat about the role of touch in creating a sense of safety and connection, and how sensory integrative processing can impact overall wellness. If you’re curious about the need to balance and respect boundaries while providing positive somatosensory experiences for individuals with neurodiversity this episode is for you. Hopefully, like we did, you get a deeper appreciation of the power of touch in building empathy, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging.
Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
Timestamps
00:00
Importance of somatosensory system in attachment relationships and development
02:40
Impact of insecure attachment on somatosensory amplification and somatization
07:00
Neurodevelopment as a window into wellness and decline
10:00
Phantom limb experiences from missing relational experiences
12:30
Importance of sensory integrative processing and Dr. Ayres' work
16:00
Importance of touch in building empathy and connections
19:00
Enhancing somatosensory experiences in therapy
23:00
Balancing respect for individual boundaries and supporting adaptive function
26:00
Challenges of touch in vulnerable populations and the need for boundaries
30:00
Importance of psychoeducation and consent in touch interactions
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOT
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OT
Website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/
Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us? Subscribe to our youtube channel!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us as we explore the interplay between feed forward and feedback in the somatosensory system. Learn how this impacts our ability to perform skilled movements and how our brain prepares for the next action. Find out how inhibition plays a crucial role in allowing us to venture forward in novel experiences.
Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical
reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
Full transcription of our episode is available on our
website.
Timestamps:
0:00:00 Introduction and revisiting the topic of praxis
0:01:28 Difficulty of replicating human praxis in robots
0:02:48 Somatosensory basis of dyspraxia
0:05:01 Importance of enhancing somatosensation, movement, and vision
0:05:41 The dynamic and solidified body map of the homunculus
0:06:25 Purpose of somatosensory processing and sensory integrative processing
0:07:49 Treating the whole, not just practicing the end products
0:08:12 Understanding the homunculus and its dynamic nature
0:10:04 Feed forward and feedback happening simultaneously
0:11:35 Interplay between feed forward and feedback happening simultaneously in the brain
0:12:22 Peripheral receptors learning in the neural network
0:13:03 Neurodevelopmental changes in the peripheral and central nervous system
0:13:45 Preparing the body for the next activity
0:14:44 Sensitization of peripheral receptors in response to unexpected events
0:16:12 Pre-emptive preparation of the brain in eye movement control
0:17:19 Interplay between somatosensory, vestibular, and visual systems in response to uneven surfaces
0:17:50 Importance of somatosensation as a perceptual layer that supports skilfulness
0:18:58 The interplay between modulation and discrimination processing in novel experiences
0:20:40 Treating the modulation issue to clear the slate for discrimination to become relevant
0:21:57 Co-regulation through touch in discrimination processing
0:22:25 The spreading activation of the homunculus enriching the body map
0:23:10 The nervous system drawing somatosensory information to create inhibition and engagement
0:23:41 The somatosensory system as the primary inhibitory system
0:24:26 The whole process being somatosensory dependent
0:24:42 The valence and tipping in the somatosensory system
0:25:21 The role of the social engagement secretary in somatosensory modulation
0:27:01 Co-regulation and the importance of a partner in somatosensory experiences
0:29:20 The impact of not meeting a child's somatosensory needs on adaptation and efficiency
0:29:54 The power of OT observations in shifting perceptions and supporting children's sensory needs
0:34:20 The importance of separating modulation from discrimination in clinical reasoning for effective intervention
0:34:54 The interplay between modulation, discrimination, cognition, and executive function in treatment.
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOT
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OT
Website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/
Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us?
Subscribe to our youtube channel!
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If you've ever wondered what somatosensory processing and breaking down what that really is and how we can observe it in our sessions then this episode is certainly for you!
-
Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/
Full transcription of our episode is available on our website.
Timestamps:
00:03:21 - Exploring Modulation Challenges in Somatosensory Processing
00:05:27 - Discussion of Somatosensory Receptors and Interoception
00:07:26 - Discussion on the Vestibular Labyrinth as a Proprioceptor
00:10:08 - Conversation on Somatosensation and Perception-Action Processing
00:11:46 - Exploring the Role of Somatosensory Modulation in Skill-Based Actions
00:14:41 - Discussion of Vestibular Processing in Relation to proprioceptive modulation
00:19:45 - Exploring the Effects of Phasic and Tonic Movement on Proprioceptive Input
00:21:59 - Exploring the Perception-Action Cycle: How Proprioception and Phasic Receptors Impact Motor Action
00:24:00 - Modulation of Tactile, Proprioceptive, and Vestibular Inputs
00:25:41- Discussion on Tactile and Proprioceptive Processing in Clinical Observations
00:31:07 - Exploring the Role of Tactile and Proprioceptive Systems in Motor Functioning
00:32:58 - Exploring the Role of Proprioception and Affordances in Tactile Development
00:36:28 - Discussion on Motor Skill Development in Infants
00:40:57 - Discussion on Sensory Motor Development in Toddlers
00:42:04 - Discussion of Praxis Categories for Treatment Planning
00:47:44 - Discussion of Praxis Difficulties and Bilateral Motor Coordination
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
- Sensory Discrimination for Skilfulness
https://youtu.be/X3xMJbZkbyM
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOT
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OT
Website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/
Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us? Subscribe to our youtube channel!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode is our first attempt to discuss some of the vestibular based contributions as to why some children just never stop moving in comparison to others who seam to fear movement. And how could both of these challenges be potentially related to weakened vestibular processing. We very much hope to tackle this topic again as we feel we only just scratched the surface.
You can get a full transcript of this episode in our show notes:
https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/post/19-sensory-seekers-vestibular-discrimination-part-1
Have a listen as we reflect with Tracy on the 2022 PVI Gathering & Unyte Safe and Sound Summit. We discuss many things Polyvagal (big thanks to Dr. Stephen Porges!). Our journey takes us most deeply into co-regulation and some new ways of integrating this concept with Tracy's insights!
The Summit is currently still available for online access (live recordings). So to anticipate that for all that want to know you can find it here:
https://web.cvent.com/event/836a907a-9b07-4503-8069-934a100e49db/summary
Full disclosure we do not get any kick backs from directing you to the site.
SEED and DFX are both looking for Occupational Therapists to join our teams!
Get in touch ->
SEED
https://www.instagram.com/seedpaediatric/
https://www.facebook.com/seedpaediatricservices
https://www.seedpaediatricservices.com
DFX
https://developmentalfx.org/
https://www.instagram.com/developmentalfx/
https://www.facebook.com/developmentalfx/?fref=ts
Show notes on our website (coming soon):
spiritedconversationspodcast.com
Want to do the SpIRiT Course? You can find it here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com
Join us for this episode as Tracy describes the treatment process for a young woman with gravitational insecurity.
Show notes for this episode are coming soon!
This episode was inspired by a lister!
Most of us have had this quandary in our learning as professionals - how to think about reflexes holistically, do they even matter and what to do when we see them in treatment?
We dive into the neurology of some of the reflexes and discuss them from a Sensory Integrative perspective, why they may or may not be present and how they can impact on functional performance.
We love learning as much as you do and if you have questions, send them our way! spiritedconversationspodcast@gmail.com
References:
Shelly Lane and Anita Bundy's - Sensory Integration Theory and Practice 3rd Edition.
Show notes will be up soon on our website:
spiritedconversationspodcast.com
Want to do the SpIRiT Course? You can find it here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com
"We have to give predictability to allow for flexibility, and we have to give rhythm to allow for a-rhythm" - Tracy Murnan Stackhouse 2022
This episode Cory highlights how becoming a parent has changed her appreciation for predictability, rhythm and routine. Tracy links these principles to their influence on our nervous systems and whole gang speaks to how predictability, rhythm and routine influence their treatment sessions.
No show notes for this episode, just a good discussion between great friends.
Website:
spiritedconversationspodcast.com
SpIRiT Course:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com
This Episode we continue with our case from episode 3. Michelle walks us through the next surprising steps of the treatment journey and how she followed the child’s lead to new and wonderful places, like ADLs! Tracy highlights Michelle’s use of Dan Seigal’s 4 E’s of cognition and offers many pearls for us to ponder. We hope you enjoy!
As always show notes can be found at::
spiritedconversationspodcast.com
You can access training for the Spirit course online here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/courses/thespiritofpediatrictherapy
In this discussion we talk through the tension we have as therapists to step through our list of activities for each session and the need of the child to have us adapt in sessions moment-to-moment in order to create the essential ingredients for neurodevelopment to unfold.
Enjoy!
This episode we explore the neurological and developmental concept of imitation.
We dive into how it unfolds developmentally in a social context and how it supports the process of praxis. We even get into the concept of ‘perfectionism’ from a sensory integrative framework.
As always show notes can be found at::
spiritedconversationspodcast.com
You can access training for the Spirit course online here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/courses/thespiritofpediatrictherapy
Enjoy!
This episode continues on from episode 10 in exploring executive functions in treatment. We wander across a few different topics throughout including praxis, complex processing and motor skill development.
Show notes for episode 10 continue to be relevant for episode 11. You can access these here:
spiritedconversationspodcast.com
You can access training for the Spirit course online here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/courses/thespiritofpediatrictherapy
Enjoy!
On the 11th of January our profession lost a wonderful colleague, who had an incredible influence on so many lives around the world, particularly those of us in the field of paediatric OT. Given Tracy and Gen’s beautiful friendship and Gen’s influence on each of us, we are sharing a few stories to celebrate her life.
If you want to find out more about Gen, her Sensory Tools website is a good place to start: https://sensorytools.net/blogs/news/about-genevieve-jereb-o-t
Music for this episode by Gen:
‘Starfish’ - Jumpin’ Jellybeans
‘Do The Monkey’ - Say G’day
‘Push My Blues Away’ - Jumpin’ Jellybeans
May there always been a little Gen in our Spirited Conversations.
Wow we've made it to episode 10! This episode brings us another case discussion. We explore how executive functioning (EF) and effortful control (EC) - particularly inhibition, start to emerge in treatment for our young man.
Tracy references a mind map from the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) which we've attached in our show notes here:
https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/basic-01
As always you can access training for the Spirit course online here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/courses/thespiritofpediatrictherapy
Enjoy!
This episode takes us further along the path of social emotional development. We dance with the dilemma of knowing when the right time is in treatment to teach a specific social skill strategy. If you have ever thought about how much to challenge a child and how much to follow their lead then this discussion is definitely for you.
Hopefully we will have all the bugs in our audio sorted for our next episode but we hope you enjoy regardless!
Show notes for this episode can be found here:
www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com
For all those interested in taking the SpIRiT course you can find it here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com
We are back and taking our conversations into the realms of social-emotional development. If you haven’t heard episode 7 it will be helpful to go back and listen as we reflect on the same case and how treatment moved from regulation into the social-emotional domain.
We don’t specifically reference a number of key researchers in our discussion and deeply want to honour and respect the work these wonderful people have contributed to this field. So we have included their names for you here:
- Dr. Stanley Greenspan and Dr. Serena Wieder
- Dr. Edward Tronick
- Dr. Dan Siegal
- Dr. Daniel Stern
We also make reference to Mattingly and Fleming’s work in realation to clinical reasoning and occupational Therapy.
Bon appetite!
This episode we work to put the concepts from the last two episodes together with a clinical case.
As always show notes can be found here:
www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com
SpIRiT course can be found here:
https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com
Enjoy!
These two Modulation episodes are packed full!! Definitely don't skip this one, it's packed with gold.
So exciting that the SpIRiT course is now available for people to take online. If you're interested check it out here: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com
As always, our website has some links/resources to explore further from this ep in our show notes.
https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com
Get ready to dive into sensory modulation, a very unique and incredibly important topic. Show notes at www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com
Join us as we discuss sensory discrimination for the purpose of skilfulness. Enjoy the process as we ask why the brain needs details! Show notes at www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com
This episode we discuss a young man who demonstrates so clearly why posture is so important and how it can have such a profound impact on handwriting and function.
Our first episode gives you a little behind the scenes of how we landed where we are today and why we are really excited about starting this podcast.