Expert Tips for Educators & Therapists

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Supporting Children with Selective Mutism: Quick-Reference Guide

Children with selective mutism aren’t choosing silence—they’re navigating anxiety that often goes unseen. For educators, therapists, and caregivers, knowing how to respond with compassion (not pressure) is key to building trust and supporting communication. That’s why we created this free quick-reference guide—a practical, at-a-glance resource with clear dos and don’ts for SLPs, teachers, and parents. Whether you're working in the classroom, clinic, or at home, this guide helps teams stay consistent and affirming across all settings.

Late Diagnosis, Autism Advocacy, and Neuroaffirming Practices

Therapist and advocate Dr. Destiny Huff shares her late-diagnosed journey with autism and ADHD, as well as the duality of being neurodivergent and parenting a neurodivergent child. Dr. Huff discusses navigating the special education system to support neurodivergent learners and the intersection of her personal and professional experience. Finally, Dr. Huff offers insights into how educators and families can advocate and embrace neuroaffirming practices to support diverse learners.

Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders with Christian Hancock

In this insightful Bright Conversations episode, Sarah sits down with Christian Hancock to explore a topic that is unfamiliar to many professionals in the field—Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Together, they discuss what FASD is, the challenges individuals with FASD face, and how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and other professionals can provide strength-based support. Christian shares her expertise, experiences, and practical guidance to help providers recognize and respond to FASD in a compassionate and effective way.

Creating Safer, More Supportive Spaces: Free Checklist + Masking Guide

Creating truly inclusive environments starts with understanding both what students need and what they may be masking to fit in. But many professionals still feel unsure how to spot signs of masking or evaluate whether their space is actually supportive for neurodivergent learners. That’s why we created this free resource bundle—a Safe Space Checklist and Understanding Masking Guide designed to help SLPs, educators, and school teams assess classroom environments and recognize the hidden challenges students may face. Both tools are printable, practical, and made for immediate use.

Understanding Selective Mutism with Emily Laracy

Emily Laracy, a school-based speech-language pathologist who specializes in selective mutism, joins us for a powerful and informative conversation that explores what selective mutism is, how it typically develops, and most importantly, how SLPs and other professionals can provide meaningful, evidence-based support.

Recognize the Signs: A free checklist to help identify Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Early recognition of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) can make a powerful difference—but many professionals still feel uncertain about what to look for or how to support students effectively. That’s why we created this free communication checklist—a quick-reference tool designed to help SLPs, educators, and school-based teams identify common language and executive functioning patterns associated with FASD. It’s printable, easy to use, and built for real-world collaboration.

Say This, Not That: A Free Language Swap Guide for Neuroaffirming IEPs

Too many IEPs are written for legal compliance—not for student success. When we rely on deficit-based language, we risk overlooking the strengths, communication styles, and real needs of neurodivergent students. That’s why we created this free Language Swap Chart—a printable tool that helps IEP teams shift from outdated labels to affirming, student-centered alternatives.

Level Up! Using Video Games in Speech Therapy with Erik Raj

In this engaging episode of Bright Conversations, Sarah sits down with Erik Raj to discuss how Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) can use video games as a legitimate and effective therapy tool. Erik, a well-known advocate for innovative therapy strategies, shares insights on how video games can increase engagement, improve communication, and provide meaningful interactions for clients.

Raising Awareness for CTE and Traumatic Brain Injury with Dr. Kelli Uitenham

In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye sits down with Dr. Kelli Uitenham, a medical Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), to discuss Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and the critical role that SLPs play in raising awareness and supporting affected individuals.

The Power of Relationship-based Therapy with Desiree Rusch

In this conversation, Shontaye Glover-Jones is joined by pediatric speech-language pathologist Desiree Rusch to explore the deep value of human connection in therapeutic practice. With over 20 years of experience in early intervention, schools, hospitals, and private settings, Desiree reflects on how intentional relationship-building is the key to long-lasting success in therapy. From practical approaches to play-based therapy to navigating challenging environments with empathy, this episode is a powerful reminder that therapy is not just about techniques—it's about trust.

Supporting Neurodivergent Kids Through Play & Connection

In this insightful episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Glover Jones welcomes Polina Shkadron, a trauma-certified Speech-Language Pathologist, to explore the power of play, relationships, and brain-based strategies in supporting neurodivergent children. Polina brings over 15 years of experience working with children with communication challenges, autism, ADHD, feeding difficulties, and more. She breaks down complex ideas in a relatable way, offering practical tools that families and educators can use right away.

Turning Passion into Business with Meredith Harold & Megan Sutton

In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Sarah sits down with two inspiring female entrepreneurs, Meredith Harold and Megan Sutton, to explore how they turned their passion into thriving businesses. They share their journeys from identifying gaps in the Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) field to creating impactful solutions, all while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

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