Spirited Conversations - Engaging and Elevating Pediatric OT

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-101info@seedpaediatricservices.com 

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 Timestamps00:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and announcement of available training00:03:23 - Discussion on the relationship between interoception and polyvagal theory00:06:19 - Importance of understanding the receptors in interoceptive processing00:08:13 - Interception extends beyond visceral organs to include other receptors00:09:19 - Interception involves both physical sensations and emotional feelings00:12:01 - Context of sensation and social touch00:14:27 - Receptors becoming bristly when not open to receive touch00:21:13 - Neuroceptive function of comfort and safety00:23:26 - Tuning into social cues and internal/external focus00:26:42 - Relationship between state and receptor activation00:28:20 - Stretch receptors and their role in processing interoceptive information00:30:07 - Electrical and chemical changes in interoceptive processing00:31:44 - The role of mismatch and posterior insula in emotion00:33:59 - Shift from subconscious to awareness-based processing00:38:44 - Impact of interoception on mobilization00:41:53 - Tracy discusses the interaction between polyvagal system and interoception00:43:08 - Tracy explains how states impact interoceptive cues and choices00:48:42 - Discussion on the role of attention in interoceptive awareness00:49:52 - The anterior insula's role in drawing attention to interoceptive signals00:50:59 - Individual differences in valence tipping and interoceptive awareness00:54:40 - Treatment considerations for interoceptive cues and shame triggersKey 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.

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/ Timestamps00:00Importance of somatosensory system in attachment relationships and development02:40Impact of insecure attachment on somatosensory amplification and somatization07:00Neurodevelopment as a window into wellness and decline10:00Phantom limb experiences from missing relational experiences12:30Importance of sensory integrative processing and Dr. Ayres' work16:00Importance of touch in building empathy and connections19:00Enhancing somatosensory experiences in therapy23:00Balancing respect for individual boundaries and supporting adaptive function26:00Challenges of touch in vulnerable populations and the need for boundaries30:00Importance of psychoeducation and consent in touch interactions Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OTWebsite: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/ Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us? Subscribe to our youtube channel!

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 Processing00:05:27 - Discussion of Somatosensory Receptors and Interoception00:07:26 - Discussion on the Vestibular Labyrinth as a Proprioceptor00:10:08 - Conversation on Somatosensation and Perception-Action Processing00:11:46 - Exploring the Role of Somatosensory Modulation in Skill-Based Actions00:14:41 - Discussion of Vestibular Processing in Relation to proprioceptive modulation00:19:45 - Exploring the Effects of Phasic and Tonic Movement on Proprioceptive Input00:21:59 - Exploring the Perception-Action Cycle: How Proprioception and Phasic Receptors Impact Motor Action00:24:00 - Modulation of Tactile, Proprioceptive, and Vestibular Inputs00:25:41- Discussion on Tactile and Proprioceptive Processing in Clinical Observations00:31:07 - Exploring the Role of Tactile and Proprioceptive Systems in Motor Functioning00:32:58 - Exploring the Role of Proprioception and Affordances in Tactile Development00:36:28 - Discussion on Motor Skill Development in Infants00:40:57 - Discussion on Sensory Motor Development in Toddlers00:42:04 - Discussion of Praxis Categories for Treatment Planning00:47:44 - Discussion of Praxis Difficulties and Bilateral Motor CoordinationOther episodes you'll enjoy:4. Sensory Discrimination for Skilfulnesshttps://youtu.be/X3xMJbZkbyM Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OTWebsite: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us? Subscribe to our youtube channel!

This episode is our first attempt to discuss some of the vestibular based contributions to why some children just never. stop. moving. In comparison to others, who seem to fear movement. We attempt to explore how both of scenarios are related to weakened vestibular processing. This is a part one episode, as we've only just scratched the surface of this topic.-In this episode, Tracy, Cory and Michelle cover the following:1. The importance and power of the vestibular system and its role in neurological functions, sensory integration and higher cognitive capacities.2. Some ways to identify and assess vestibular processing issues in a child and the challenges of testing for this.3. The importance of understanding the purpose of vestibular activation and how to effectively treat it in children.Resources: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. Other episodes you'll enjoy:17. Vestibular Based Treatmenthttps://youtu.be/jFHatI5lmyUConnect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedconversations_ot/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiritedconversationsOTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritedconversations_OTWebsite: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/Loved this episode and want an easy cost free way to support us? Subscribe to our youtube channel!Chapter Summaries:[00:00:36]We are going to talk about vestibular integration. When a child seems to be not registering the information from movement, how do we describe it? How do we talk about it?[00:06:17]Tracy: If you can help the sensory systems integrate with the vestibular system in a better way then that's likely to have improved impact on their function and development. The thing that changes all the time is the individual presentation of the behaviors that reflect the challenges with those underlying systems.[00:16:55]Tracy: If the person gets super activated by movement and then they might have a little bit of sympathetic activation. In the vestibular apparatus, as you move through space, you should have the fluidity and freedom of movement. But if you're not able to integrate and take in the details of space movement, that is more discrimination.[00:21:36]Cory: What's the difference between kids that have a hard time processing vestibular information and those that move all the time? Tracy: Focusing the conversation on that adaptive response is always a pivot point. And those kids are easier to treat because the treatment goes faster.[00:31:04]When things really come together for little developing kids, all of this circuitry just is sort of almost automatic. Sometimes we have to go a little bit slow to go fast. But if we remember to follow their lead, we can stick with them.[00:37:50]There is an indication that with prolonged Nystagmus that some of this treatment may have less efficacy. Most of the time, it's about discerning the relationship between the integrative partners. And the vestibular processing can change pretty drastically as the processing overall changes.

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 those who want to know you can find it here:https://web.cvent.com/event/836a907a-9b07-4503-8069-934a100e49db/summaryFull 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 -> SEEDhttps://www.instagram.com/seedpaediatric/ https://www.facebook.com/seedpaediatricserviceshttps://www.seedpaediatricservices.comDFXhttps://developmentalfx.org/https://www.instagram.com/developmentalfx/https://www.facebook.com/developmentalfx/?fref=tsShow 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 on our website (coming soon):spiritedconversationspodcast.com Want to do the SpIRiT Course? You can find it here:https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com