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

First Bite

Guest: Amy Zembriski, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Neurodiversity-Affirming-Feeding-Therapy-Where-do-I-Start

In 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 Overview

00:41 Feeding Matters Conference Highlights

01:31 Creating a Safe Space for Feeding Therapy

03:33 Personal Reflections and Announcements

05:25 Introduction to Amy Zembrisky

07:16 Amy's Journey in Feeding Therapy

11:44 Building Trust and Autonomy in Feeding Therapy

15:29 Caregiver Education and Support

17:44 The Importance of Routine and Flexibility

35:28 Validating Caregiver Concerns

36:44 Navigating Social Media Judgments on Parenting

37:51 Understanding Children's Food Preferences

38:54 The Importance of Flexibility in Feeding Therapy

40:24 Building Trust and Safety in Therapy

42:10 Case Study: Engaging a Child in Mealtime

43:42 Personalizing Therapy Approaches

47:45 The Role of Caregivers in Feeding Therapy

58:12 Advice for New Therapists

01:00:55 Resources and Mentorship

01:05:19 Conclusion and Contact Information

About 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.