Homebase Hope: All About Autism

Welcome to the very last episode of Homebase Hope. What a journey it has been! I have loved every minute of this podcast – from the interviews to the editing – knowing that this is a resource that will live on forever for parents of children on the spectrum. I started this podcast to reach more parents and to give you a smorgasbord of ideas and interventions – so you can pick and choose what works for you and your family (and what doesn’t)….because there is not a one-size fits all approach to the complexities of autism. I hope that you have gotten as much out of it as I have. Thank you for your support. You are all amazing. Today, in our last conversation, we are talking to Ariella Lew – a qualified paediatric nurse and Director of Kids on Track Consultancy, based in Melbourne. Ariella specialises in child’s behaviour and is simply incredible. We dive into defiance and the kids who say ‘no’ to everything, or simply refuse to follow instructions. How can we best support them? How can we change our thinking? This final episode is not to be missed….. See you on the flip side guys. Head to @homebasehope on Instagram to continue to follow my personal journey. Big love xxxx Kids On Track: Website: https://www.kidsontrackconsultancy.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kidsontrackconsultancy/ The post HBH 43: Defiance & Challenging Behaviours with Ariella Lew appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are talking about one of the most important topics I think we can cover – big feelings and self regulation! It doesn’t matter what age or stage your child is at, this podcast is going to be relevant. I’m super excited to be speaking with Katie Crosby – an Occupational Therapist based in the States. Katie specialises in emotions, behaviours and relationships through the lifespan. I connected with Katie over Instagram (as you do these days) and I was just blown away by her wealth of knowledge and how much brilliant content she shares with her community. So if your on Instagram go check her out @thrivinglittles. Get ready to open your mind and learn how to think differently when it comes to your child’s ‘big emotions’….. The post HBH 42: Big Feelings And Self Regulation with Katie Crosby appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Masturbation, erections, orgasms, puberty and sexual relations are NOT taboo in this podcast episode!! We cover it all in an open conversation with Nelle Francis, special needs educator and mum to a 29-year-old autistic son. We talk about how puberty presents in both girls and boys on the spectrum, common vulnerabilities, how to initiate these difficult conversations with your child (because they need to know the facts!) and practical strategies to support your child during these major life transitions. Above all, Nelle will give you SO many things to think about…..things you have never even considered! Join us – not matter what age or stage your child is at….trust me, you need to hear this! The post HBH 41: Puberty & Relationships On The Spectrum appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are talking all about sensory processing disorder and I am thrilled to be talking to Allison Davies on this topic! Allison is a Neurologic Music Therapist, educator, advocate and speaker. She has 15 years experience working as both a therapist and educator in childhood intervention and aged care, and specialises in anxiety and Listen In The post HBH 40: Sensory Processing Disorder – The Lived Experience with Allison Davies appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

You can go to all the therapy sessions in the world, but at the end of the day if the family home environment isn’t functioning well…..therapy certainly won’t be as helpful! Meet Sharon Collon. She’s an ADHD coach passionate about helping parents create home environments that are functional and joyful and by streamlining the day to day tasks with innovative systems and routines, you can get back time for the important things like enjoying your children. Sharon’s husband and eldest son have severe ADHD.  She tried everything for her son; occupational therapy, speech therapy, GAPS Diet, RPA Diet, Paleo Diet, Integrative Paediatricians, Developmental Paediatricians, Child Psychologists, cutting out all colours and preservatives, behavioural therapy and then different medications.  Everything helped to a certain degree but home life was exhausting.  So Sharon began developing routines to try and make my home life easier. She noticed that the more routined and organised her family became the calmer the ADHD family members were. Listen in to learn more about how Sharon has calmed the chaos at home and all about her course that can help you do the same. The post HBH 39: Calming The Chaos At Homebase appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are talking to Jeremy Samson who has turned his tough childhood experience into a learning program for children on the autism spectrum. As a kid, Jeremy had trouble understanding sarcasm and jokes. He says his brain worked in a curious way that often got him into trouble. He was bullied and he engaged in self injurious behaviours such as head banging. Eventually testing revealed why Jeremy found life more challenging than other kids his age, he had Aspergers syndrome. Jeremy’s mother, his greatest support and mentor, explored many avenues (traditional and non-traditional) to support his development. Based on the programs and experiences Jeremy had growing up and based on his extensive research in the area, Jeremy founded ‘Time 2 Train’ – an internationally recognised program for autism, health and fitness. The program is based on the understanding of neuroplasticity and not only has benefits for fitness and emotional management but also in clarity of thoughts and concentration The post HBH 38: Time To Train The Brain with Jeremy Samson appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

So what really is SPD?  Today we dive deep into Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), what it can look like and what you can do to help your child. We uncover the different subtypes of SPD; sensory modulation disorder, sensory-based motor disorder and sensory discrimination disorder.  I’m chatting with two energetic and insightful Occupational Therapy Assistants Listen In The post HBH 37: Making Sense Of SPD appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

As we become more interested in a whole body, whole child approach to autism, it becomes important to look at what is happening at a biological level. Good food is good for everyone, we know that. But what kinds of nutritional supplementation may be beneficial for kids on the autism spectrum? What kinds of dietary modifications can be made? And where do we start? Today I chat with a renowned Australian Naturopath, Peter Mullen who specialises in working with children, where we talk about immune dysregulation, detoxification and nutritional supplementation including fish oil, probiotics, Vitamin D, glutathione, zinc….PLUS SO MUCH MORE! The post HBH 36: Supplements & Nutritional Supports with Peter Mullen appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

If your child is diagnosed with ADHD or if you think your child fits the ADHD criteria, or even if you’re noticing signs of hyperactivity and inattention…then this podcast is for you! Today we talk all about the behaviour you may see in a child with ADHD and what strategies you can use at home, classroom hacks and how to improve focus, the social impacts of ADHD, the positive qualities and how to use a strengths-based model. I’ll be chatting with Paula Burgess. Paula is the founder of Beyond The Maze – where she works with parents and children affected by ADHD. Paula believes that if we help the community to understand and accept ADHD …..then we will not only open more opportunities, but we will give our kids permission to fly. Paula was driven to make a change in the world after her son was diagnosed with ADHD. The post HBH 35: ADHD – Beyond The Maze With Paula Burgess appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Oxidative stress & mitochondria; what on earth are they and how do they relate to autism? Today we are going to make sense of this in really easy to understand language. No need to dust off the old textbook, just listen in to find out the latest research in this area. Today’ you’ll learn what environmental factors trigger oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction and you’ll be empowered with ways to improve your child’s health today! Today I am talking with the incredible Rhonda Muller. Rhonda is a professional with first-hand experience. She’s been where you are now. With a combination of diet, nutritional medicine, behavioural, main stream and natural therapies, the health & development of her autistic son improved 10 fold. The post HBH 34: Oxidative Stress, Mitochondria & Autism appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be an autistic female? Or what’s it like to receive a diagnosis later in life? If so, buckle up, because today we are soaking up the lived experiences of the insightful Kristy Forbes! Kristy dives deep into her personal journey, why she prefers ‘autistic’ over ‘person with autism’,  if there is a fundamental difference between males and females on the spectrum and the neurodiversity movement. Kristy Forbes is an autism and neurodiversity support specialist and the Director of inTune Pathways. Kristy was diagnosed autistic at 33 years. She is raising 4 beautiful daughters who are also diagnosed autistic. The post HBH 33: Autistic Females & A Late Diagnosis appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Hands up if you have a little fussy eater? Does your child only eat beige, bland carb-loaded foods? Or are they limited to certain brands? Maybe they will only tolerate crunchy foods? Do they survive on a diet of 20 or less different types of food? Do they crave junk food? Then this episode is for you! Today we are talking all about fussy eater and how to kick picky eating habits to the curb! I’ll be talking with Ashley Thurn, who is a paediatric occupational therapist and picky eating specialist based in Florida. Ashely has a background in sensory related paediatric feeding issues and is passionate about exploring how food and environmental factors impact brain development, especially for children with Autism and ADHD. The post HBH 32: Feeding Fussy Eater with Ashley Thurn appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are soaking up all the practical advice and insights into how to make school a success, with the amazing Sue Larkey. We dive into anxiety, transitions, adjustments for tests, sensory tools and SO MUCH MORE! I have subscribed to Sue’s newsletter 7 years ago when I had my first pediatric caseload at a special development school down in Victoria. I’ve always loved Sue’s ideas because they’re super practical – and she makes everything make sense! Sue Larkey is an educator who has taught students with autism at both mainstream primary schools and special education schools. She combines practical experience with extensive research having completed a Masters in Special Education. If your child is at school – then this is one episode you don’t want to miss! The post HBH 31: Making School A Success with Sue Larkey appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Chloe Hayden, better known as Princess Aspien, is a 21 year old girl with Aspergers Syndrome. Chloe struggled throughout her childhood and early teenage years feeling outcast and unable to connect with anyone. She suffered relentless bullying at school which landed her in hospital.  When Chole was 18, she came to the realisation that she wasn’t the only child who had gone through these similar experiences. Chloe talks about what school life was REALLY like, how homeschooling changed her life in an instant, what she wishes teachers knew about her, how teachers can support autistic kids to thrive and so much more! The post HBH 30: Dear Teachers, What I Wish You Knew with Princess Aspien appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Sara Harvey aka Agony Autie is autistic and was diagnosed at the age of 26 after her sons diagnosis. Sara is completely unguarded when it comes to advocating for the neurodiverse. She openly and courageously shares what’s in her heart and on her mind. Sara is shedding light on autistic behaviours and the different experiences being autistic entails. We talk all about her personal experiences, how she describes autism, what the neurodiverse movement is all about, why masking is so damaging, and why stimming should not be discouraged. Buckle up…..and join us for one exciting ride! The post HBH 29: Unapologetically Autistic with Agony Autie appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

When the brain and body are overloaded with toxins they don’t have the opportunity to function optimally. Our modern day world is full of chemicals which although are often hard to avoid, there is a great deal you can be doing to safely navigate the chemical maze. We conversation dives deep into the common toxic chemicals (‘fragrances’, phthalates & fluoride) you should be avoiding plus the everyday products you should be thinking twice about! This is one episode you can’t miss – because friends, the strategies shared in today’s episode are within your control. Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Bill Statham. Bill is a researcher and writer with an interest in health education and a commitment to making a positive difference to the health of people and the environment. Bill studied and practised homeopathy both in Australia and the UK for over ten years. During this time he became increasingly concerned about the detrimental effects on health caused by synthetic chemicals in the foods we eat and cosmetic products we use every day. The post HBH 28: Navigating The Chemical Maze appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Kids on the spectrum are drawn to digital devices, and lets face it, many kids prefer the virtual world over the real world. Electronic devices can provide predictability where kids feel safe, secure and can play a game tailored to their current interest. This sounds far more appealing than the real world which is full of unpredictability, judgement, misunderstandings, sensory overload and constant social challenges. But the tricky thing is trying to limit screen time and take back a device when time is up. This can trigger all sorts of meltdowns and behaviours. Today, we’ll be diving into techno tantrums, safe screen time and practical advice on how to manage things like social media. I’m super excited to be talking with Dr. Kristy Goodwin. Kristy is a children’s technology and development expert, speaker, author & mum. She takes the guesswork and guilt out of raising kids in the digital age and arms parents with facts, not fears, about the best ways to parent when it comes to technology. The post HBH 27: Techno Tantrums, Safe Screen Time And Raising Our Kids In A Digital World appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

We need to look at autism through a completely different lense. We need to unlearn what we have known to be true. We need to challenge deeply ingrained belief systems and embrace a whole child approach to the complexities of autism. Today it’s just you and me! I chat about how my understanding of autism was challenged when I stepped out of my therapy bubble and started to look beyond the information that was handed to me. I show you why the confusing history of autism means we need to keep our minds open to interventions that don’t necessarily address ‘autism’. I discuss epigenetics and why our divided autism community needs to work together…now more than ever before. The post HBH 26: The eyes are useless when the mind is blind- Unlearning What We Know About Autism appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

We know genes play a major role in autism, but are you aware that autism is also heavily influenced by environmental factors? The more we learn about autism as an epigenetic condition – the more we start to realise that lifestyle really matters! This is a really empowering model to work from – because it means you can make a difference. We know there is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach to the complexities of autism but there are simple and effective strategies that ALL children can benefit from such as eating real food, restoring gut health and eliminating chemicals from around the home. Tune in today as we talk to (the incredibly passionate) Shandy Laskey who will empower you with the knowledge and tools to make health promoting changes and help your child reach their full potential! The post HBH 25: Lifestyle Matters For Autism- Exploring Epigenetics with Shandy Laskey appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Does your child often feel isolated and have low self esteem? Chris Varney is 31 years old and has Asperger’s Syndrome. He grew up with a group of mentors who pushed him to think ‘I CAN’ and is driving a rethink of autism, from ‘I Can’t’ to ‘I CAN’!! In today’s episode Chris empowers you with ways to support your child at school and work – to boost their confidence and help them reach their full potential. Chris is the founder of the I CAN Network. The I CAN Network mentors young people on the Autism Spectrum to live life with an ‘I CAN’ attitude. They build networks across schools, universities, TAFEs, communities, businesses and governments. This is Australia’s first social enterprise founded by people with Autism! The post HBH 24: Creating An “I Can” Network With Chris Varney appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

We know diet impacts gut health, but what else influences the state of the gut? ….It’s so much more than we think! Today we chat with Kirsty Wirth – Gut Health Guru, Founder of Kultured Wellness and mother to a child on the autism spectrum. She talks us through all the things that can help or hinder gut health….and we look beyond the diet to explore the impacts of nature, movement and SO MUCH MORE!  She empowers us with so many practical tips including letting us know the type of non-toxic sunscreen she uses on her kids! The post HBH 23: Healing The Gut – Beyond Dietary Intervention with Kirsty Wirth appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are viewing autism through the lens of a teen on the spectrum. Clay Lewis is 16, girl crazy, car mad, loathes school and lives for music. Just your typical teenager. He’s also on the autism spectrum and is just realising he’s a person his peers want to get to know. Clay has his own bin cleaning business with a loyal customer base. His ultimate dream is to race cars but he’s willing to settle for independent living – having his own unit on the Gold Coast, owning a car and financial independence! We’ll be talking about growing up on the spectrum, school, friendships, sensory processing and employment….join us! The post HBH 22: Teenage Life On The Spectrum appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Children on the spectrum are easy targets for school bullies. I feel it is SO necessary that we shed light on what can be such a dark topic and spend a whole episode equipping you with the tools to approach bullying. We show you how you can bully proof your child! Susan Hyde is our beautiful guest who has been working in the field of education for nearly 30 years. Her background in classroom teaching lead to her interest in specialising in children’s behaviour, and boy, she has got some incredible gems to share with you today! Take a listen….. The post HBH 21: How To Bully Proof Your Child appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are delving right into nutrition for kids and getting some really practical advice. Beck Warke, an incredibly knowledgable and passionate functional nutrition consultant walks us through the types of foods we should be packing into the lunchbox. We dive into the foods that sustain our kiddies energy and attention, how to navigate food labels, best shopping tips, how make the best choices if your on a plant based diet and SO MUCH MORE! Beck is the founder of the Omaha Kids In School Nutrition Program and is dedicated to educating children on how real, whole food can enable a healthy and vibrant life. Beck wants to change the health of our kids by improving one lunch box at a time… The post HBH 20: Changing Lives, One Lunchbox At A Time appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are diving into the world of Asperger’s with none other than Professor Tony Attwood. We delve into how our understanding of autism has changed over the years, what autism actually is, how you can celebrate Asperger’s, managing your child’s ‘challenging behaviour’, supporting your child through anxiety and depression ….and SO MUCH MORE! Tony has worked with thousands of individuals of all ages with Asperger’s syndrome or an Autism Spectrum Disorder and today he is sharing his wisdom and insight with us. The post HBH 19: All About Asperger’s With Tony Attwood appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Do our kids actually need homework? Is it really doing them any favours? Today we are talking to a fabulous teacher who’s based down in Adelaide and she’s not afraid to speak up when it comes to ditching homework and replacing it with more time to relax, connect, move and play. Clare Crew is an early childhood and inclusive education teacher who specialises in the brain-body connection. She helps the children the system leaves behind – those with learning, attention​, ​developmental ​and behavioural challenges. Her message is simple; children need more movement and play in the early years of life. And when we’re able to deliver this, children begin to thrive. The post HBH 18: Ditch Homework For More Play appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Music and movement combined has the power to re-map the brain! Autism Movement Therapy® is a program designed by Joanne Lara – a professional dancer turned classroom education specialist turned university professor! The program is based on interhemispheric sensory integration to help children reach their potential. Music and movement can literally rewire the brain to benefit a child’s communication, cognitive function, behaviour and motor skills. And she show’s us how this is possible! Joanne is just as passionate about empowering people on the spectrum to find suitable employment. As the Executive Director for Autism Works Now! – she has lots of good tips on teaching pre-employment skills to teenagers and young adults. The post HBH 17: Movement Therapy, Waking Up The Brain & Job Skills with Joanne Lara appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Impaired communication is a core challenge for children with autism. However, many kids on the spectrum learn effectively through the use of visual supports. Visuals can increase predictability, reduce anxiety, improve listening and independence and empower children to effectively communicate their message. Whether you are currently using visuals or you are curious to learn more, I encourage you to strap in for some really practical advice as I chat with the amazing Shae Rodgers from Small TALK Speech Therapy based in Newcastle. The post HBH 16: Visual Supports For Children With Autism appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Children with autism often experience very high stress levels which can lead to problem behaviours and a decline in their physical and emotional health. Dr Hamlin is the Associate Executive Director at The Centre for Discovery, a premier specialty centre for children and adults with complex developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders. Today she discusses a revolutionary empowering approach which can be used on the most complex cases of autism, yet the approach itself is quite simple in nature. It focuses on a lifestyle approach. She walks us through her 4 step approach to reducing stress and implementing tools for self-regulation. This episode is FULL of gems you do not want to miss. The post HBH 15: Autism And The Stress Effect appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Today we are talking all about inflammation. Many children on the spectrum experience chronic stress caused by everyday stressors such as transitions, social situations, a diet high in processed foods and poor quality sleep. And this constant stress day after day can cause inflammation in their little bodies. Eliminating inflammation from the body requires a really holistic approach and this is exactly what we are delving into today! Today we are talking to the most enthusiastic, most passionate doctor I have ever met! You just can’t help get excited when you hear her speak. Her energy is seriously contagious! Today we are talking to Dr Madiha Saeed an integrative holistic family physician, but most importantly a mother of four boys under the age of nine. The post HBH 14: Inflammation & Autism – A Holistic Approach with Dr Madiha Saeed appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

We live in a toxic soup of EMF (electromagnetic fields). We’re surround by mobile phones, phone towers, wireless Internet and power lines. It is almost impossible to escape in today’s technology-driven society. EMF interferes with our very biology and may even contribute to autism. Today I have the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Libby – Functional Medicine practitioner and Doctor of Chiropractic – who explains exactly what EMF is and how you can start to reduce your exposure. This episode is jam-packed with useful tips so you can take back control over your families health – today. The post HBH 13: The Truth About EMF And How You Can Protect Your Kids appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

In today’s podcast, we look at autism a little bit differently. Holly Bridges, author of ‘Reframe Your Thinking Around Autism’ and founder of Autism Reframe Technique (A.R.T), shares her new and optimistic approach to working with children on the spectrum. Her method is founded on the advances in neuroscience and our understanding of mind-body connections. A.R.T seeks to change the narrative: from one of ‘what’s wrong’ to ‘how to grow and thrive’. Rather than working from a ‘brain deficit’ model of autism, Holly starts from the premise that every student can upgrade their mind/body connection, if they are given the right tools and are treated respectfully, positively, and creatively. I can’t wait for you to soak up Holly’s incredible insight and wisdom! The post HBH 12: Reframe Your Thinking Around Autism appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Sensory processing can be a huge piece of the autism puzzle and when you can understand why certain behaviours may be occurring, instead of reacting to the behaviour you can bring a sense of understanding, offer strategies and learn to appreciate the difference. Carol Stock Kranowitz is the author of the best selling book, The Out-of-Sync Child – which has sold over 1 million copies. It is an absolute privilege to be chatting to her and picking her brain on all things sensory processing. In our chat she talks us through the different types of sensory processing disorders and empowers you with strategies to support your child today. The post HBH 11: The Out-Of-Sync Child & Sensory Processing Strategies appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

It’s time we talk all about toileting. Poos and wees. Yep. We’re going there! Because the reality is, toiling is often a big deal for kids – particularly kids on the spectrum. Today I chat with the ever so knowledgable Occupational Therapist, Di Collis. We cover the topics of chronic constipation, soiling, poo withholding and toilet refusal. All your questions are answered and you are given practical tips that you can implement today to help your child with toileting independently. We talk about medication, establishing routines, sensory processing issues and how to gain your child’s cooperation. This is a must listen if your child is having challenges with this massive life transition! The post HBH 10: Let’s Talk Toileting appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

There are many other parents who have travelled the path before you, and one mother in particular is making massive positive change within the schooling system to better support our kids on the spectrum. Randa Habelrih openly shares her story of how her son, Richard, experienced chronic bullying and completed high school without ever making one friend. This broke Randa’s heart, but served as rocket fuel for her autism mission. Randa developed a program called MATES (Mates Assisting To Engage Socially) which facilitates friendship between two students by pairing a student on the autism spectrum with another student who does not have an intellectual disability. This much needed program promotes a sense of belonging and inclusion in the school community. Randa is a beautiful passion driven mum who is changing the the landscape of how children on the spectrum experience school life. Her incredibly resilient and talented son Richard, is an autism advocate and sought-after speaker who travels to schools to spread awareness and a message of inclusion. The post HBH 9: From Autism Awareness To Autism Inclusion appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Gut health and autism – how do they relate? Autism is a brain condition, right? If you are curious about how the health of your child’s gut can impact the core characteristics of autism – then you have to tune in to today’s informative and empowering chat with the wonderful Kirsty Wirth. Kirsty is the founder of Kultured Wellness – a company who makes beautiful cultures and is on a mission to spread the message about gut health far and wide. Her fascination with the gut began when her son was diagnosed with autism. Kirsty took the road less travelled when she began exploring ways of addressing the root cause for her son’s behaviours and symptoms through nutrition and lifestyle change. In this episode, Kirsty talks about her personal journey, detecting gut issues, probiotics, leaky gut and healing the gut for overall health and vitality. The post HBH 8: Gut Health & Autism: Restoring A Healthy Gut appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

This week I have the absolute privilege of chatting with Kari Dunn Buron, the inventor of the Incredible 5-Point Scale! Parents of children with autism and teachers around the globe are using this practical scale to teach self-regulation skills and reduce challenging behaviours. Kari explains how this incredible scale can be used for children on the spectrum – with or without language, as well as adults. Listen in to hear how you can implement this simple tool in your everyday life to reduce stress and improve quality of life for your child and your family. The post HBH 7: Social Behaviour & The Incredible 5-Point Scale with Kari Dunn Buron appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

You’re in for a super practical podcast today! I chat with Tarryn an Occupational Therapist and Renee a Speech Pathologist, who developed the online resource store ‘My Diffability Australia’. Tarryn and Renee teamed up to develop the online store as a direct result of working with families and recognising that many stores were selling products which were overpriced, placing them out of reach of children and families in need. Tarryn and Renee discuss a range of resources which may support children with; anxiety, difficulties with self-regulation, speech or language delay, sensory challenges and those who do not cope well with transitions. They also share their most popular items to help children on the autism spectrum! If you are uncertain on which products may best help your child, tune in! This podcast is sure to point you in the right direction. The post HBH 6: All About Resources For Children With Autism appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

In this week’s podcast, Rhiannon chats to Darrielle Maree – a special needs mother and the founder of “Mums Reborn”. Darrielle shares her personal story of sadness, exhaustion and burnout following her daughter’s diagnosis. She recognised that this was not serving herself or her family well. Darrielle made a conscious decision to find a happier life and reaped the benefits of adopting a positive mindset and allowing herself 2 hours of ‘me time’ per week. Darrielle went on to study holistic counselling which saw her develop “Mums Reborn”. Darrielle talks of how the online community aims to inspire, empower and support mums across the globe through their daily struggles. She has launched “Empower You”, a program where she guides you through a 3 month transformative journey. Darrielle shares many inspiring tips which you can use today to reconnect with yourself and your family. The post HBH 5: The Life-Changing Magic Of A Mother’s Mindset appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

This week, Rhiannon speaks with Angela Hanscom, a paediatric Occupational Therapist based in the US and founder of Timbernook – an award winning developmental nature based program. Angela is extremely passionate about reconnecting children with nature and her book ‘Balanced and Barefoot’ highlights the importance of nature based play. Angela tells of how she first started working in a traditional clinic environment, however as her waitlist grew coupled with the birth of her own children and realising kids aren’t playing outside like they used to, Timbernook was born! Angela shares with listeners what this innovative approach looks like and the many benefits which children can reap from this. Angela also provides the parents at home with some strategies to connect their children with nature and utilise all their senses. Finally she shares some exciting news – that Timbernook is coming to Australia! To see the beautiful faces of my guests during this podcast visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnf13E4P31IE_PiG07kQepg Join the community: Facebook: www.facebook.com/homebasehope Instagram: @homebasehope Check out: www.homebasehope.com.au Get our awesome FREE e-Book by dropping us a line at: [email protected] So….until next fortnight, I encourage you to open your mind, respect the differences and above all believe that YOU can make a difference from homebase! xxx *You should always seek a health practitioner’s advice before starting any new health practice. The post HBH 4: The Therapeutic Benefits Of Nature with Angela Hanscom appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

Rhiannon speaks with Kris Barrett who wears a lot of hats including certified health and nutrition coach, bio individual nutrition practitioner, MINDD practitioner and certified GAPS practitioner. She is also an author of two books – No Cows Today and High Thrive Me! Kris specialises in helping families living with children on the spectrum through dietary changes and biomedical intervention. Kris saw the power of adopting a more alternate approach by making some practical and sustainable changes to her son’s diet and lifestyle following a diagnosis of ASD. Whilst at times it was a hard road, he is now a well adjusted thriving teenager. Kris shares with Rhiannon tips of what foods to substitute, eliminate or enhance in your child’s diet. To see the beautiful faces of my guests during this podcast visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnf13E4P31IE_PiG07kQepg Join the community: Facebook: www.facebook.com/homebasehope Instagram: @homebasehope Check out: www.homebasehope.com.au. Get our awesome FREE e-Book by dropping us a line at: [email protected]. So….until next fortnight, I encourage you to open your mind, respect the differences and above all believe that YOU can make a difference from homebase! xxx *You should always seek a health practitioner’s advice before starting any new health practice. The post HBH 3: Autism & Diet – The Foundations Of Healing with Kris Barrett appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

This week Rhiannon speaks with Jeanette Purkis, an autism advocate, author, renowned public speaker, radio presenter, group facilitator and the 2016 ACT volunteer of the year. Jeanette shares her personal story of growing up feeling “a bit different”, trying to “fit in” and being secluded and bullied by her peers. Jeanette shares how a late diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of 20 gave her a sense of identity and belonging, as well as opening the door to the autism community. Jeanette shares her thoughts of how a later diagnosis ultimately led her down a different path in life, the importance of focusing on strengths to build self esteem, and how with commitment and resilience you can achieve extraordinary things. To see the beautiful faces of my guests during this podcast visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnf13E4P31IE_PiG07kQepg Join the community: Facebook: www.facebook.com/homebasehope Instagram: @homebasehope Check out www.homebasehope.com.au. Get our awesome FREE e-Book by dropping us a line at: [email protected]. So….until next fortnight, I encourage you to open your mind, respect the differences and above all believe that YOU can make a difference from homebase! xxx *You should always seek a health practitioner’s advice before starting any new health practice. The post HBH 2: Life On The Spectrum & Autism Advocacy with Jeanette Purkis appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

I am so excited to share this brand new podcast series with you! Homebase Hope: All About Autism will inspire you to think differently when it comes to autism. I will be interviewing leading world experts who aren’t held back by conventional dogmas. I will be chatting to inspirational and courageous parents and people on the spectrum who are part of a grassroots movement for autism awareness, action and inclusion. I like to adopt a ‘whole child’ approach to autism and blend traditional therapy with natural lifestyle approaches to inspire growth and positive change in children on the spectrum. I understand the challenges you face as a parent – and I’m your biggest cheerleader! My love of real food, fitness and healthy living means that I delve into the topics of motherhood, self-care and wellbeing. Welcome to the Homebase Hope community, a place of positivity and possibility!! Rhiannon xxx Join the community: Facebook: www.facebook.com/homebasehope Instagram: @homebasehope Check out www.homebasehope.com.au. Get our awesome FREE e-Book by dropping us a line at: [email protected]. So….until next fortnight, I encourage you to open your mind, respect the differences and above all believe that YOU can make a difference from homebase! xxx *You should always seek a health practitioner’s advice before starting any new health practice. The post HBH 0: A Sneak Peek at Homebase Hope: All About Autism! appeared first on The Wellness Couch.

The first podcast of the series sees Rhiannon talking with Claire Gilmour and Francine McNabb from STEPS Autism Treehouse based on the Sunshine Coast of QLD, Australia. STEPS Autism Treehouse was born following Claire’s son’s diagnosis and the daunting feeling of not knowing where to turn for services and support. Its evolution has seen the development of a network of like-minded people who are able to provide support, access to relevant resources and knowledge of programs and specialists in the local area. Throughout the podcast, Claire and Francine share their personal stories of having children on the autism spectrum, discussing the diagnostic process, the joys and challenges. To see the beautiful faces of my guests during this podcast visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnf13E4P31IE_PiG07kQepg Join the community: Facebook: www.facebook.com/homebasehope Instagram: @homebasehope Check out www.homebasehope.com.au. Get our awesome FREE e-Book by dropping us a line at: [email protected]. So….until next fortnight, I encourage you to open your mind, respect the differences and above all believe that YOU can make a difference from homebase! xxx *You should always seek a health practitioner’s advice before starting any new health practice. The post HBH 1: Autism Awareness & A Tight-Knit Community appeared first on The Wellness Couch.