Neurodiversity Affirming Feeding Therapy: Where do I Start? with Amy Zembriski

Guest: Amy Zembriski, MBA, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Neurodiversity-Affirming-Feeding-Therapy-Where-do-I-StartIn this episode of First Bite, host Michelle Dawson introduces a valuable conversation between Erin Forward and Amy Zimbrisky, a seasoned speech therapist specializing in neurodiversity affirming feeding therapy. After highlighting insights from the Feeding Matters Conference, Erin and Amy delve into practical strategies for beginning feeding therapy with neurodiverse children. They discuss creating a safe and welcoming environment, the importance of caregiver education, and the significance of understanding each child's unique relationship with food. Amy shares her personal journey in overcoming challenges and learning to support her clients in a more holistic and relationship-based manner, emphasizing the significance of autonomy and trust. Tune in to learn how to build therapeutic strategies personalized for each child, utilize AAC effectively, and foster a positive mealtime experience. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:41 Feeding Matters Conference Highlights01:31 Creating a Safe Space for Feeding Therapy03:33 Personal Reflections and Announcements05:25 Introduction to Amy Zembrisky07:16 Amy's Journey in Feeding Therapy11:44 Building Trust and Autonomy in Feeding Therapy15:29 Caregiver Education and Support17:44 The Importance of Routine and Flexibility35:28 Validating Caregiver Concerns36:44 Navigating Social Media Judgments on Parenting37:51 Understanding Children's Food Preferences38:54 The Importance of Flexibility in Feeding Therapy40:24 Building Trust and Safety in Therapy42:10 Case Study: Engaging a Child in Mealtime43:42 Personalizing Therapy Approaches47:45 The Role of Caregivers in Feeding Therapy58:12 Advice for New Therapists01:00:55 Resources and Mentorship01:05:19 Conclusion and Contact InformationAbout the Guest: Amy Zembriski, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP is a certified speech language pathologist with an extensive background working in a variety of settings, including acute care, skilled nursing facilities, schools, early intervention, and private practice. Additionally, she has had past experience working as an adjunct professor supervising graduate students during their diagnostic clinical practicum. She is the owner of Speech Therapy Connections in Fair Lawn, NJ, where she specializes in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and gestalt language processing; Amy offers expert support for families with autistic children. Her passion lies in educating and empowering both professionals and families through neurodiversity-affirming practices.