Episode 12: Interview with Bryden

In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing fellow neurodivergent OT, Bryden Carlson-Giving. We explore the past, present, and future directions of Occupational Therapy in the world of neurodiversity. The bio below was provided by Bryden Carlson-Giving. "Bio: Bryden Carlson-Giving is a neurodivergent, doctoral student at Boston University and a pediatric occupational therapy practitioner with experience in pediatric outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation settings. He is passionate about community-defined evidence practice, mental health promotion, trauma-informed care, and incorporating strengths-based approaches to promote a positive self-identity for his pediatric patients. Bryden’s work includes encouraging a shift away from an impairment-based perspective and returning to strengths-based, occupation-centered practices. He seeks to promote neurodiversity-affirming practices, amplify the voices of the disabilities community, and challenge ableism within healthcare and research. From helping individuals discover and embrace their sensory processing differences to collaborating with their family and education team to improve their ability to be neurodiversity-affirming, Bryden aims to maximize his client's quality of life and well-being to support authentic, neurodivergent development." Resources: Bryden and Katherine McGinley's Tedx Talk that we reference throughout: https://youtu.be/yhhhyV-q9KQ The term "Neurodistinct" was coined by Tim Goldstein VAST or "Variable Attention Stimulus Trait" was introduced by Drs Hallowell and Ratey Dr. Kristie Patten's quote that Rachel butchered, "Be willing to be wrong, be curious, be better." Finding Our Strengths: Recognizing Professional Bias and Interrogating Systems | The American Journal of Occupational Therapy | American Occupational Therapy Association (aota.org)