Diverse Thinking Different Learning

• Ep. 228: Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) with Dr. Samantha Levy

  We are excited to have Samantha Levy, PhD join the show again this week to discuss Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Dr. Samantha Levy is a clinical psychologist specializing in youth with chronic pain disorders. She uses a biopsychosocial approach to address both physical and emotional struggles, working with children, families, and parents to help them align the mind and body for improved functioning. Dr. Levy also runs parent groups, writes a parenting blog for Creative Healing for Youth in Pain, and works as a psychologist for Whole Child LA. Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a condition in which often debilitating neurological symptoms appear without a clear medical cause, and this episode helps make some sense of FND, from the ways it manifests (paralysis, seizures, sensory disruptions) to the underlying emotional and psychological factors that ultimately shape it. We explore why FND tends to surface in individuals with a history of anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or other medical conditions and how social media and peers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have played a role in its seeming to be more common. In this episode, you will gain insight into how staying calm, validating emotions, and avoiding reinforcement of symptoms can help support recovery. Dr. Levy helps us understand that treatment for FND is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We discuss the importance of a multidisciplinary approach instead, including individual therapy to address emotional triggers, physical therapy to rebuild control over the body, and family therapy to create a stable support system. We also stress how schools and healthcare providers play a key role in recovery, and we explore strategies to ensure that the right team is in place. This episode of the podcast ultimately offers a message of hope – that FND can feel overwhelming, but with the right interventions, many children see significant improvement, and the experience can even lead to personal growth for the entire family!   Show Notes: [2:46] - Dr. Levy explains how FND causes real neurological symptoms without medical explanation and has historically been misdiagnosed. [4:49] - FND can involve paralysis, sensory loss, and/or seizures, resulting from the brain misinterpreting signals. [7:14] - FND often affects individuals with anxiety and can spread via social influence. [10:13] - Dr. Levy discusses how pandemic-related stress and social media exposure contributed to FND symptoms. [12:22] - Dr. Levy argues that identifying emotional, physical, and environmental triggers for FND episodes helps prevent and reduce symptoms. [15:14] - To avoid reinforcing FND symptoms, parents should minimize attention during non-epileptic episodes. [18:45] - Professional guidance is very important for parents who have children with FND. [19:19] - Encouraging open emotional expression helps children with FND take on triggers. [22:43] - Therapy for teens with FND tends to address anxiety, trauma, and coping strategies. [25:22] - Dr. Levy discusses how physical therapy, guided imagery, and emotional validation help teens with FND regain body confidence. [28:38] - Dr. Levy reflects on how a child’s FND episodes decreased significantly after shifting family dynamics. [30:32] - Overprotectiveness can actually worsen FND symptoms, so teens should maintain safe, independent activities. [33:39] - Parents should seek support themselves because their stress can worsen their child's FND symptoms. [35:45] - Dr. Levy points out that FND can be a wake-up call, prompting families to develop healthier ways to handle emotions. [38:00] - Dr. Levy reflects on how a girl’s involuntary kicking symbolized suppressed anger, stressing a need for emotional expression. [41:27] - Various resources such as reactive programs and CHIP webinars help provide support for FND treatment. Links and Related Resources: CHYP’s Website Dr. Samantha Levy, PhD - “Navigating a Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) Diagnosis in Children: Understanding, Coping, and Finding Support” Episode 220: How to Support Children and Teens with Chronic Pain with Dr. Samantha Levy   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia    Connect with Dr. Samantha Levy: CHYP’s Website CHYP - Our Team  

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• Ep. 227: Teen Depression Gone Viral with Dr. Meredith Gansner

  We are joined this week by Dr. Meredith Gansner. Dr. Gansner is a child psychiatrist at Boston Children’s Hospital and an instructor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, specializing in high-risk digital media use in teens. She has received multiple research grants, including a K23 career development award from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, and she is an active member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry media committee. Her first book, Teen Depression Gone Viral, explores the challenges of treating adolescent depression in the digital age. In this episode, Dr. Meredith Gansner discusses depression in teens, something that has been on the rise especially in today’s digital age. She sheds some light on how adolescent depression often looks different from adult depression, sometimes showing up as irritability, aggression, or even physical symptoms like headaches and stomach pain. She helps us break down why it’s so important for parents to recognize these signs early on and seek professional support instead of just dismissing them as typical teenage behavior. Dr. Gansner also examines the relationship between social media and mental health. While some teens find support online, others are exposed to harmful content that can reinforce unhealthy coping mechanisms and worsen or even cause poor mental health. She offers some practical advice on improving digital media literacy, setting boundaries, and developing safety plans to help young people engage with the internet and social media in a way that is not detrimental to their well-being. Dr. Gansner also discusses effective treatments for teen depression, stressing a multi-faceted approach including lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication when appropriate. She also clarifies the differences between suicidal thoughts and non-suicidal self-injury, offering guidance on how parents and caregivers can respond with the right level of support. With a focus on family-based strategies, this conversation with Dr. Meredith Gansner helps provide insightful information for anyone looking to strengthen emotional resilience in today’s teenagers!   Show Notes: [2:13] - Dr. Gansner reflects on initially feeling optimistic about addressing mental health in youth online but grew frustrated. [5:56] - The youth mental health crisis peaked during COVID and remains a pressing issue. [6:23] - Depression is a physiological illness with many contributing risk factors. [8:03] - Teen depression often manifests as irritability or anger, making it harder for parents to recognize. [11:29] - Some children with depression experience physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches. [13:08] - Hear about the inspiration behind the title of Dr. Gansner’s book. [15:53] - Social media spreads both helpful and harmful information about depression, requiring careful oversight and guidance. [18:32] - Social media can both support and worsen teens' mental health, creating harmful echo chambers. [19:26] - Dr. Gansner feels that rather than banning social media, teaching digital literacy can help children take on harmful content. [21:40] - Teaching teens responsible internet use with guidance, like learning to drive, helps ensure safer engagement. [24:43] - What are some of the best ways to treat depression in teens? [27:31] - Parents often struggle to differentiate suicidal thoughts from non-suicidal self-injury in teens. [28:05] - Dr. Gansner explains that non-suicidal self-injury involves self-harm without suicidal intent, often as a distress signal or coping mechanism. [31:21] - Simply telling teens to "just stop" self-harm can lead to shame, worsening depression and leading to a harmful cycle. [33:17] - Improving sleep is important for teens' emotional resilience, helping prevent impulsive decisions and risky behaviors. [36:58] - Parents limiting their own screen use helps depressed teens feel supported and less isolated. [38:38] - Be sure to get Dr. Gansner’s book at a discounted price here! Links and Related Resources: Episode 131: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Kids and Teens with Dr. Shadab Jannati Episode 148: How Sleep Affects Academic Performance and Mood Episode 160: The Sleep-Deprived Teen with Lisa Lewis Episode 169: The Science of Exercise and the Brain with Dr. John Ratey Discount on Teen Depression Gone Viral   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia    Connect with Dr. Meredith Gansner: Boston Children’s Hospital - Meredith Gansner  

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• Ep. 226: Is It Autism? Recognizing, Assessing & Supporting Children and Teens with Dr. Chandni Singh

  This week on the podcast, we are happy to have Dr. Chandni Singh on the show. Dr. Singh is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than a decade of experience in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions in children, adolescents, and young adults. She is committed to providing evidence-based assessments and tailored treatment recommendations, and she strongly focuses on serving culturally and ethnically diverse communities. At West LA Neuropsychology, PC, she specializes in early diagnostic evaluations for young children and comprehensive assessments for school-aged children with neurodevelopmental challenges and co-existing mood disorders. While assessments can feel overwhelming for parents and educators who suspect that a child might be autistic, Dr. Chandni Singh breaks down the assessment process, from recognizing early signs to understanding why some children are diagnosed later than others. She explains how social and emotional challenges often become more noticeable as kids get older and why autistic traits can be mistaken for anxiety, ADHD, or other conditions. Dr. Singh also sheds some light on the gold standard tools used in evaluations, including the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), which creates structured social scenarios to observe how a child interacts. We discuss the importance of gathering input from multiple sources such as parents, teachers, and the children themselves to get a full picture of their strengths and challenges. This episode of the podcast also explores the lived experiences of autistic children and teens, with Dr. Singh highlighting the role of masking, where kids adjust their behavior to fit in but often experience exhaustion and distress as a result. She also discusses the impact of cultural background on both receiving and understanding an autism diagnosis.   Show Notes: [3:04] - Dr. Singh explains how autism diagnoses are often delayed because early strengths can mask challenges. [5:03] - Social difficulties in children can stem from autism, ADHD, anxiety, or overlapping conditions. [8:50] - Autistic teens often withdraw socially, reinforcing isolation, low mood, and struggles in school. [10:45] - Parents often seek autism assessments after noticing persistent behavioral, emotional, or communication challenges. [13:44] - Dr. Singh points out how increased school refusal often signals deeper emotional or social struggles. [16:13] - Dr. Singh discusses and explains the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule). [19:57] - One-on-one evaluations can provide important insights into a child's social world and emotional experiences. [22:35] - Comprehensive autism assessments include IQ tests, behavioral observations, and parent-teacher scales. [25:05] - Cultural background, values, and parenting styles shape families' understanding of autism. [27:01] - Dr. Singh discusses how families and schools increasingly embrace neurodivergence, reducing stigma. [30:43] - Many parents seek guidance on supporting their child's development rather than just seeking a diagnosis. [31:34] - Providing support includes therapy, and school and community recommendations customized to individual needs. [34:12] - Autism support tends to focus on therapeutic tools, school accommodations, and social skills. [38:24] - Autism assessments can strengthen parent-child relationships by leading to understanding. Links and Related Resources: Episode 119: Autistic Girls - Overlooked and Underrecognized with Megan Beardmore, PhD, NCSP Episode 185: Late Diagnosis: Why Did I Get Missed? with Monica Blied Episode 205: Understanding ADHD Assessments Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Dr. Chandni Singh: West LA Neuropsychology, PC - Website Email: ​​[email protected]  Email: [email protected]   

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• Ep. 225: Moving Beyond Accommodations and Modifications to Cognitive Change for Academic Gains with Shelley Woon

  This week on the podcast, we welcome Shelley Woon to the conversation. Shelley is a dedicated educator and school leader with over three decades of experience supporting students, families, and staff in overcoming learning challenges. She holds a Master of Education in Leadership, has specialized qualifications in Special Education and Reading, and serves as Head of School at Arrowsmith School and Superintendent of Special Education. Shelley values the brain-learning connection and is committed to helping others unlock their potential. Shelley joins us to explore how we can move beyond compensatory strategies and actually strengthen cognitive function for students who have dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning challenges. We discuss why depending only on accommodations can actually limit students’ career opportunities and how interventions that are rooted in neuroplasticity can actually rewire the brain. She explains the Arrowsmith approach, which involves targeting cognitive weaknesses via specific exercises designed to create real, measurable improvements in reading, writing, and executive function. We also take on common skepticism around cognitive training. With so many programs that promise miracles, how can parents and educators separate science-backed interventions from empty claims? Shelley shares research that supports neuroplasticity-based learning, and she gives us real-world success stories from students who have greatly improved their academic abilities through structured training. Show Notes: [2:52] - Shelley transitioned from focusing on accommodations to addressing cognitive challenges. [4:15] - Accommodations help, but actual progress comes from strengthening cognitive skills. [6:28] - Shelley discusses how ignoring learning disabilities can hinder careers and mental health, even with accommodations. [8:51] - We learn that Arrowsmith identifies cognitive deficits and uses neuroplasticity-based exercises to improve reading and writing. [10:04] - Shelley explains how neuroplasticity enables the brain to rewire itself. [13:52] - Addressing learning difficulties requires not just accommodations but also cognitive training. [15:01] - The Arrowsmith program develops cognitive functions by integrating supportive technology. [18:53] - Cognitive training can improve executive functioning, but programs like Arrowsmith are and should be evidence-based, [21:52] - It is reiterated that the Arrowsmith program improves learning capacity using neuroplasticity for academic and cognitive success. [23:02] - In Arrowsmith classrooms, Shelley discusses, students engage in individualized cognitive exercises customized to their needs. [25:52] - Shelley further explains that teachers guide students with personalized feedback. [27:33] - Education is evolving with neuroplasticity and integrating technology. [29:14] - Improving cognitive functions can improve multiple skills, sometimes yielding unexpected benefits in daily life. [31:33] - We learn how cognitive training such as sports practice requires mastering basic skills. [35:23] - Shelley shares how she can be contacted online. Links and Related Resources: Unleashing the Power of Neuroplasticity (Webinar Series) Shelley Woon - “Overcoming Dysgraphia and Dyslexia with Neuroplasticity” Barbara Arrowsmith-Young - The Woman Who Changed Her Brain: How I Left My Learning Disability Behind and Other Stories of Cognitive Transformation Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Shelley Woon: Arrowsmith’s Website Email: [email protected]

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• Ep. 224: Should I Medicate My Child? – Part 2 with Lance Steinberg, M.D.

  Following up on last week’s episode, we are joined once again by Lance Steinberg, M.D. to further discuss the complex issue of medicating children with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and if you missed part 1 of the discussion, be sure to go back and listen to that before diving into part 2! In this continuation of our discussion, Dr. Steinberg sheds more light on the approach that is required when considering medication, stressing that a thoughtful evaluation is important before immediately jumping to medical solutions. Dr. Steinberg offers some insights into the FDA-approved medications, why it's important to adhere to age guidelines, and the differences between stimulant options. Dr. Steinberg also explores balancing managing side effects while optimizing benefits, the use of non-stimulant alternatives, and the possibility of off-label treatments for unique situations. The conversation touches on the variety of medication forms available and why it is necessary to customize treatments to each child's needs, taking into account academic, social, and psychological factors. Dr. Steinberg’s practical advice on starting with low doses, monitoring progress, and adjusting strategies offers a great perspective on this important part of mental health care for youth.  Show Notes: [1:20] - Karen stresses that it's important to take a thorough, holistic approach before considering ADHD medication for children. [2:08] - Dr. Lance Steinberg discusses why understanding FDA age limits and medication safety for ADHD treatment is important. [5:34] - Stimulant medications are generally highly effective for ADHD. [8:32] - Dr. Steinberg advises starting ADHD medication at low doses in order to minimize possible side effects. [11:28] - Regular evaluation is important when managing ADHD treatment via medications. [13:27] - Non-stimulant and off-label medications can also be effective for ADHD, especially with comorbid conditions. [16:16] - Dr. Steinberg discusses the effectiveness and side effects of off-label medications like Modafinil for motivation. [19:03] - Dr. Steinberg talks about structured support for executive functioning. [21:37] - Intervention requires a holistic approach and involves therapists, coaches, and team communication. [24:00] - Dr. Steinberg stresses careful medication management for neurodiverse individuals. [26:04] - He touches upon combining stimulants and non-stimulants for ADHD treatment. [29:18] - Dr. Steinberg warns about the careful combination of SSRIs and stimulants due to potential electrical abnormalities. Links and Related Resources: Episode 105: Medication Helps But is Not a Magic Potion for ADHD with Syed Naqvi, MD Episode 173: Why Treating Symptoms Isn’t Enough for Child Wellbeing with Hokehe Eko, MD MPH FAAP Episode 203: ADHD and the Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring Integrative Treatments with Sara Langley, MSN, PMHNP-BC Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Dr. Lance Steinberg: Lance Steinberg, MD's Website Phone: 818-224-3540 Email: [email protected]   

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