The NeuroAffirm Podcast

Episoder

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  Ep. 125 How to Run Successful Social Groups 10.09.2026 17min

  Want to learn how to target social goals without promoting masking? Join Jessie + Chris for a free 90 minute masterclass where they'll share how to work on inferencing, self-advocacy, perspective taking, conversation skills and more! https://www.neuroaffirm.com/social-skills-masterclass 
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  Ep. 124 Building Rapport Isn’t Enough...How Therapists Become Part of the Intervention 20.08.2026 14min

  Building rapport is important...but rapport isn’t the end goal. It’s the beginning of the therapeutic relationship. In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between rapport and the therapeutic relationship and exploring an idea that can completely shift the way we think about therapy: the therapist is part of the intervention. We’ll talk about what it actually means for a child to experience us as safe, trustworthy, responsive, and attuned - and why autonomy, flexibility, and repair matter just as much as having a “good connection.” I’ll also introduce therapeutic use of self: intentionally adapting your presence, energy, voice, pacing, body language, expectations, and responsiveness based on what a particular child needs from you. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between rapport and the therapeutic relationship Why building rapport shouldn’t simply lead to increasing demands The roles of trust, safety, autonomy, responsiveness, attunement, and repair What “therapeutic use of self” means—and what it looks like in practice How your energy, affect, voice, pacing, and physical presence can shape an interaction Why being a great pediatric therapist is about more than being fun or likable How to ask, “What does this child need from me right now?” If you want to attend the upcoming training: Ready, Set, Connect: The Roadmap to Better Engagement & Communication - then click here to become a paid subscriber on Substack to join this training (plus trainings every month!) https://substack.com/@sensoryslp And for Chris's upcoming AI Webinar, click here: https://www.speechdude.com/ai-for-slps-webinar-reg-aug-2026 
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  Ep. 123 Not Seeing Progress in Speech Therapy? Start Here. 13.08.2026 21min

  Ready to actually start making progress with your autistic clients? I'm going to show you steps you can take to build regulation, engagement and motivation in a live training on Substack. Click here to join Substack as a paid subscriber and get access to this training plus my full training archive: https://substack.com/@sensoryslp
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  Ep. 122 Screen Time Considerations for Autistic Kids 06.08.2026 28min

  Are screens good or bad for autistic kids? Why are transitions away from the iPad so difficult? And what does the research actually say about screen time and autism? In this live discussion, pediatric speech-language pathologists Jessie & Chris Wenger explores the complex relationship between screen time, sensory regulation, and autism—without the guilt or fear-based messaging. We cover why screens can feel incredibly regulating for many autistic children, why ending screen time can trigger intense dysregulation, and how to create healthier, more successful screen time routines while supporting your child's nervous system. In this episode, you'll learn: Why screen time can feel so regulating for autistic children Why transitioning away from screens is often so difficult The neuroscience behind dopamine, attention, and screen use What research says about screen time, executive functioning, sleep, and self-regulation Why the first two years of life are especially important for language and social development How monotropism and sensory processing influence screen use Practical, neurodiversity-affirming strategies for reducing transition struggles Realistic screen time tips for busy families—without shame or perfectionism Whether you're a parent, speech-language pathologist (SLP), occupational therapist (OT), educator, or caregiver, this conversation will help you better understand why autistic kids often rely on screens as a regulation tool and how to support them through challenging transitions.
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  Ep. 121 The Biggest Sensory Mistakes SLPs Make 02.07.2026 30min

  On this episode, Jessie covers the biggest sensory mistakes SLPs make!  This episode was the Pre-Party for our free training, the Sensory Intensive for SLPs.  While the Sensory Intensive has ended, you can check out our other sensory trainings for SLPs here: Sensory Training for SLPs
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  Ep. 120 Why Anxiety is So Common in Autism (And What Actually Helps) 18.06.2026 24min

   Anxiety is incredibly common in autistic people. But what if we're asking the wrong question? Instead of asking, "How do we reduce anxiety?" maybe we should be asking, "What is this anxiety trying to tell us?" In this episode, we'll explore why anxiety shows up so often alongside autism and why many traditional approaches miss the mark. You'll learn: Why anxiety rates are significantly higher in autistic people The hidden role of uncertainty and unpredictability How sensory experiences can impact anxiety levels Why seemingly small things like phone calls, haircuts, and schedule changes can feel overwhelming The connection between masking and anxiety Why "pushing through" often makes things worse What actually helps: predictability, autonomy, sensory supports, and clear communication How to view anxiety through a neurodiversity-affirming lens
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  Ep. 119 From Behavior Therapist to NeuroAffirming SLP: Lessons that Shifted My Practice 11.06.2026 24min

  On this episode, you'll learn: Why behavior-focused approaches often miss the deeper reason a child is struggling The questions that helped me move beyond compliance and toward a neuroaffirming perspective How my experiences as a behavioral therapist influenced the philosophy behind my book How to begin shifting from behavior management toward connection, regulation, and meaningful engagement Want to learn more about the approach I use to build regulation, connection & communication? Then check out my best selling book, Ready Set Connect. And when you order the book, you also get some amazing high value bonuses to go with it…absolutely FREE (!!)...including: an awesome guidebook to implement what you’re learning a training webinar to walk you through the strategies PLUS the audiobook (narrated by me)! Click here to grab the book & bonuses: www.readysetconnectbook.com 
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  Ep. 118 My Best Tips for Parent Coaching in Therapy 02.04.2026 16min

  Fast track your session progress with my Top Tips for Parent Coaching Webinar! If you want to learn how to: Get coaching buy-in from families Implement a simple 5 step parent coaching session structure Adjust your coaching based on the parent's unique personality Generate follow through from families Then click below to grab my Top Tips for Parent Coaching webinar: https://www.sensoryslp.com/offers/eLNGNSHV/checkout 
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  Ep. 117 How to Build Real Connection with Autistic Kids 12.03.2026 19min

  Join me on Substack here! https://substack.com/@sensoryslp If building therapy around relationship, safety, and connection resonates with you, and you want to go deeper… Join me on Substack as a paid subscriber to get access to my Ready Set Connect Book Club Kit, which includes: 🎧 Ready Set Connect Audiobook - narrated by me so you can listen on the go. 📘 Ready Set Connect Guidebook - a practical workbook designed to help you apply the concepts from each chapter as you read. 🚀 Communication Accelerator  - my best strategies for supporting communication development in autistic kids. Join me here: https://substack.com/@sensoryslp 
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  Ep. 116 Why Routines Don’t Always Work for Autistic Kids 05.03.2026 15min

  Check out Jessie's full Sensory Based Routines Training on her Substack: https://sensoryslp.substack.com/p/engaging-the-most-difficult-to-engage?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true Many SLPs are taught that routines are a cornerstone of language development, especially for younger autistic children. But routines designed for neurotypical children often fall short because autistic kids present with differences in joint attention, focus, and how they process sensory input. On this live show, we’ll break down why typical routines can fail, how to honor a child’s autonomy and interests, and why meeting sensory needs is just as critical as engagement and communication. Want more on Sensory-Based Routines? Check out the latest on Substack: https://substack.com/@sensoryslp 
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  Ep. 115 The Biggest Sensory Challenges + Solutions for SLPs 12.02.2026 23min

  One of the biggest myths in our field is that “sensory” and “speech” live in different lanes. In reality, how a child processes sensory input directly impacts how they attend, regulate, move, and communicate. On this episode, we'll talk about what sensory-informed speech therapy really looks like in real-world settings, how to support regulation without stepping outside your scope, and why communication becomes more accessible when we stop separating “speech goals” from the nervous system. Join me for my upcoming 2 Day Live Online Sensory Certificate Training for SLPs. https://www.sensoryslp.com/sensory-certificate-course-virtual Check out my free Sensory Training for SLPs: https://www.sensoryslp.com/sensory-based-sessions-training  Substack (mentioned on the episode): https://substack.com/@sensoryslp Amazon Sensory Tools & Equipment Recs: https://www.amazon.com/shop/sensory.slp?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_GP17042MYT2SENW14JRW  
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  Ep. 114 Natural Language Acquisition & Gestalt Language Development with SLP Marge Blanc 29.01.2026 55min

  In this episode, we're sitting down with Marge Blanc to trace the full history of Gestalt Language Processing and Natural Language Acquisition – from the earliest research, through Marge Blanc’s landmark 2005 case study, to the years of research that shaped the NLA framework used today. On this episode, you'll learn: Where Gestalt Language Processing research began – and what the original findings actually showed How 15 years of research led to the Natural Language Acquisition framework What we’re beginning to learn about dual processors and why this matters clinically Why oversimplified summaries of GLP/NLA miss critical context for real-world practice And more! Check out Marge's Natural Language Acquisition Book and Courses: https://www.northernspeech.com/school-age-strategies/natural-language-acquisition-on-the-autism-spectrum/
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  Ep. 113 My Top 3 Activities for Autistic Toddlers & Preschoolers 22.01.2026 33min

  Ready to join us in the NeuroAffirm Academy & get access to our BRAND NEW NeuroAffirm Library? Click here to learn more: http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/  On this show, I'm sharing my three go-to activities that balance regulation, engagement, and skill-building – plus tips for adapting them so they stay fresh, flexible, and effective for every child. On this episode, you'll learn: How to keep autistic toddlers and preschoolers engaged while supporting regulation Three go-to activities that are flexible, fun, and easy to adapt How to incorporate sensory input and interests to make activities meaningful Tips for building routines that feel familiar but stay exciting And more! For ALL of our trainings, resources, and new video library, join us in the NeuroAffirm Academy: http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/ 
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  Ep 112 Why Team Collaboration Breaks Down & How To Fix It This Year 15.01.2026 15min

  Join us in the NeuroAffirm Academy to get a full training on my exact step-by-step process for training teams! http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/ Team collaboration can feel impossible – especially on teams supporting autistic kids. People often resist change, not because they’re difficult, but because they don’t feel safe, understood, or aligned. In this show, we break down why collaboration falls apart, what really builds it, and how you can make progress even when you’re not on the same page. On this episode, you'll learn: Why collaboration feels hard and simple steps you can take to make it easier The four key practices that actually build trust, alignment, and success How to collaborate effectively with teammates who are at different stages in their neuroaffirming journey How to turn small wins into lasting change on your team And more! To get more incredible resources on training teams, plus an entire library of trainings, monthly live calls, AND access to our brand new NeuroAffirm Therapy Video Library, join us in the NeuroAffirm Academy: http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/ 
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  Ep. 111 Strategies to Prioritize in the New Year (And What To Let Go Of) 08.01.2026 29min

  This episode is about resetting your priorities for the new year in a way that’s sustainable, values-driven, and actually realistic, especially for therapists who give a lot of themselves to their work. Instead of chasing goals, productivity hacks, or “new year, new you” pressure, we’ll focus on how to clarify what truly matters, identify what’s draining your time and energy, and intentionally choose where to put your focus in this season. You’ll leave with a clearer sense of direction, permission to let go of what no longer fits, and a framework for setting priorities that support your nervous system, not just your to-do list. Want to continue your neuroaffirming learning in the New Year? Click here to join us in the NeuroAffirm Therapy Academy: www.neuroaffirmacademy.com
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  Ep. 110 The Great GLP Debate Explained: Should We Use the Natural Language Acquisition Framework? 01.01.2026 19min

  Recently, there has been a surge of conversations and debates surrounding gestalt language processing (GLP) and the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Framework. Between ASHA presentations, published responses, social media discourse, and growing criticism of NLA, many clinicians are left wondering: “Is GLP valid?”, “Does the research support it?”, and “Am I doing something wrong if I don’t fully buy into it?” In this episode hosted by Melanie Weber (SLP & NeuroAffirm Team Member), we’ll unpack what’s actually being debated in the GLP conversation and break down the key criticisms alongside the shared points of agreement through a thoughtful, neuroaffirming perspective. Want to learn more about supporting your gestalt language processors? Jessie puts every one of her team members through the Meaningful Speech Course by Alex Zachos. Use code SENSORYSLP for 15% off. If you loved this conversation and want to continue to stay on top of what's new and relevant in autism, join us in the NeuroAffirm Academy: http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/
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  Ep. 109 Go From Survival Mode to Learning Mode with a Trauma-Informed Approach 18.12.2025 20min

  Trauma-informed care isn’t just about avoiding harm – it’s about intentionally creating therapy experiences where autistic kids feel safe, respected, and in control. Because trauma isn’t always a “big event.” It’s often subtle, ongoing, and woven into traditional compliance-based approaches. On this episode, you'll learn: What the core principles of trauma-informed therapy are and how to apply them with autistic kids. How to build safety through sensory-friendly environments, predictable routines, and co-regulation. Why trust, transparency, and honoring autonomy are essential for real therapeutic progress. Practical, in-session examples of what trauma-informed therapy actually looks like. And more! Join the NeuroAffirm Academy to get the resources we mentioned today, including 1) The Trauma & Regulation Lens Packet, 2) our NeuroAffirm SAFE System & training and 3) the Trauma-Informed Reframe Cheat Sheet! http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/ 
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  Ep. 108 Why Trauma-Informed Therapy is a Non-Negotiable for Autistic Kids 11.12.2025 14min

  Trauma doesn’t always look like abuse - it can be subtle, ongoing, and systemic. And for autistic kids, many “traditional” or compliance-based therapy approaches can actually retraumatize the very children we’re trying to support. In this episode, we'll break down how familiar methods like suppressing stims, forcing eye contact, withholding AAC, or correcting natural autistic communication can trigger the nervous system into protection mode. We’ll talk about what it truly means to follow a trauma-informed approach. And why this shift is a non-negotiable one. On this episode, you'll learn: What trauma-informed therapy actually means and why it’s essential for autistic kids. How trauma shows up in the nervous system, communication, and behavior. Why traditional compliance-based methods can be traumatizing for autistic kids Practical strategies to support regulation, learning, and connection without relying on compliance. Want access to our Trauma & Regulation Lens Packet? It's available in our NeuroAffirm Academy: www.neuraffirmacademy.com 
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  Ep. 107 Supporting Attention & Executive Functioning in Autistic Kids ft. Tera Sumpter SLP 04.12.2025 45min

  On this episode of the NeuroAffirm Show, we'll dive into strategies to strengthen foundational skills that make attention, focus, and daily planning easier, explore practical ways to support kids in staying on track, and share tips for building routines that actually stick.  Joined by Tera Sumpter, an SLP who specializes in executive functioning, this episode will give you actionable insights you can use right away. Whether you’re a professional, caregiver, or loved one, you’ll walk away with tools to help kids feel more confident, capable, and supported in their everyday lives. Learn more about Tera on IG @terasumpter_slp And about Tera's courses: https://terasumpter.com/ 
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  Ep. 106 Supporting Parents Facing Burnout Hosted by Celina Wright SLP Ft. Casey Mouton LMFT 06.11.2025 28min

  In this episode, we'll dive into strategies to prevent and address parental burnout, explore self-care practices that actually work, and share ways to build a supportive network for families. Hosted by Celina Wright & Casey Mouton, both clinicians and parents of disabled children, this episode will give you actionable insights you can use right away. On this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize the signs of parent burnout Simple, realistic ways parents can recharge without guilt Tips for creating a network of family, friends, & professionals to lighten the load Whether you’re a professional, caregiver, or loved one, you’ll walk away with tools to help parents feel seen, supported, and empowered. Learn more about Casey here: https://www.caseymouton.com/ And on social: @therapy.with.casey Looking for more resources to support your neurodivergent clients and their families? Check out our training and tools in the NeuroAffirm Academy: http://neuroaffirmacademy.com/