The NeuroAffirm Podcast

Speech Dude & Sensory SLP

We're Jessie & Chris, an SLP couple from California with 5 boys and a passion for finding better ways to support Autistic kids. Join us weekly to learn neurodiversity affirming ways to strengthen social-emotional development and regulation in your Autistic students.

  1. FEB 12

    Ep. 115 The Biggest Sensory Challenges + Solutions for SLPs

    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

    23 min

  2. JAN 29

    Ep. 114 Natural Language Acquisition & Gestalt Language Development with SLP Marge Blanc

    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/

    56 min

  3. JAN 22

    Ep. 113 My Top 3 Activities for Autistic Toddlers & Preschoolers

    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/

    33 min

  4. JAN 15

    Ep 112 Why Team Collaboration Breaks Down & How To Fix It This Year

    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/

    16 min

  5. JAN 8

    Ep. 111 Strategies to Prioritize in the New Year (And What To Let Go Of)

    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

    30 min

  6. JAN 1

    Ep. 110 The Great GLP Debate Explained: Should We Use the Natural Language Acquisition Framework?

    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/

    19 min

  7. 12/18/2025

    Ep. 109 Go From Survival Mode to Learning Mode with a Trauma-Informed Approach

    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/

    20 min

  8. 12/11/2025

    Ep. 108 Why Trauma-Informed Therapy is a Non-Negotiable for Autistic Kids

    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

    14 min
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4.9
out of 5
148 Ratings

About

We're Jessie & Chris, an SLP couple from California with 5 boys and a passion for finding better ways to support Autistic kids. Join us weekly to learn neurodiversity affirming ways to strengthen social-emotional development and regulation in your Autistic students.

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