SOS Approach to Feeding with Dr. Kay Toomey

In this episode of Growing OT, host Claire O'Byrne welcomes an extraordinary mother-daughter occupational therapy duo: Rosemary White and Zoe White. Rosemary, who has been practicing since 1971, brings legendary clinical insight having trained directly with the pioneering founders of pediatric OT—the Bobaths (NDT), Dr. A. Jean Ayres (Sensory Integration), and Dr. Stanley Greenspan and Serena Wieder (DIR Floortime). Zoe shares her unique perspective of growing up immersed in the clinic before establishing her own distinct path as an OT specializing in sensory feeding, DIR, and early intervention. Together, Rosemary and Zoe unpack the true heart of the DIR (Development, Individual Profile, Relationships) model. They discuss why relationships are the primary engine of human development, how to shift from prescriptive problem-solving to "empathetic inquiry," and how reframing dysregulation and stimming as self-organizing behavior honors neurodiversity. Packed with practical wisdom, reflective video analysis tips, and real-life clinical stories spanning infancy to young adulthood, this conversation is an inspiring masterclass in relational, strengths-based occupational therapy. Key Takeaways The Evolution of Foundational OT Models: Trace how Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) and Ayres Sensory Integration naturally culminate in DIR Floortime—shifting the goal from motor normalization to emotionally connected, relational responses. The Therapist-Parent-Child Triad: Understand why the caregiver-child relationship must take center stage, and how therapists can support parents through "empathetic inquiry" and collaborative exploration instead of handing down unilateral solutions. Reframing Stimming & Dysregulation: Learn to recognize behaviors as vital communication and self-organizing tools, investigating environmental or bodily triggers rather than attempting to extinguish them. The Five Cs of Regulation: Discover the clinical value of cultivating Comfort (safety/neuroception), Competence, Confidence, Control, and Communication within therapeutic interactions. Goal-Setting Without Pressure: Explore how to write measurable, functional goals that satisfy system requirements while maintaining child-led curiosity, emotional engagement, and lifelong developmental progress.

In this episode of Growing OT, host Clare O'Byrne sits down with Alexandra Dunn—a trauma-informed integrative counselor, life coach, reflexologist, and equine facilitator with 25 years of experience. Alex opens up about her personal journey, from growing up in a mental health-focused family in London to surviving a life-altering workplace trauma that pushed her into functional freeze and survival mode. Alex candidly shares what it felt like to transition from being the practitioner "sitting near the door" to becoming a client navigating workers' compensation and rehabilitation systems. She details how occupational therapy and equine-facilitated therapy played vital roles in her recovery, demonstrating the co-regulatory power of animals and the profound impact of feeling truly seen. Packed with practical wisdom on holding space, dropping rigid agendas, and prioritizing self-compassion for clinicians, this conversation is an essential guide for healthcare professionals and anyone on a healing journey. Key Takeaways Understanding Functional Freeze & Fawning: Learn how trauma can present as high-functioning survival mode—where smiling, pleasing others, and over-functioning mask deep internal exhaustion and hyperarousal. The View from "The Other Side": Gain insight into what clients experience when entering care systems after trauma and how empathetic practitioners can make all the difference. The Power of Being Noticed: Discover how subtle, present-moment observations from an OT can anchor clients during flashbacks and panic attacks. Equine-Facilitated Co-Regulation: Explore how horses pick up on internal state over outer appearances, reflect energy without judgment, and create a powerful environment for silent healing. Practitioner Self-Care & Trusting Your Gut: Learn actionable techniques for co-regulation, grounding, and making sure clinicians place themselves on their own list of unconditional care.

In this episode of Growing OT, host Clare O’Byrne welcomes back award-winning occupational therapist, author, and internationally recognized interoception expert Kelly Mahler. Together, they explore the fascinating intersection of interoception, trauma, and neurodiversity-affirming practice. Kelly explains how trauma and chronic stress can cause the body to suppress its interoceptive system and why moving away from traditional assumptions toward deep curiosity is essential for meaningful therapeutic support. She also challenges occupational therapy’s traditional focus on complete independence, advocating for a shift toward valuing interdependence and validating clients’ lived sensory experiences. Whether you are an occupational therapy practitioner, parent, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode offers actionable insights into honoring body signals and fostering genuine connection. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Trauma and Interoception Connection Learn how trauma or chronic feelings of unsafety can cause the body to shut down or disconnect from internal interoceptive signals. • A Neurodiversity-Affirming Lens Discover why therapeutic success begins with curiosity rather than assumptions and why every person’s internal experience should be recognized as unique. • Rethinking Goals Beyond Independence Explore the shift away from potentially ableist notions of complete independence toward embracing interdependence and client-directed outcomes. • The Power of Believing Body Signals Understand the therapeutic value of believing and validating a client’s reported internal experience without accidentally dismissing it. • Bridging Theory and Practical Application Gain actionable ideas for using interoception resources, learning from community experiences, and honoring individual regulation needs. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED Kelly Mahler’s Official Website Access free interoception tools, curriculum frameworks, and additional resources: https://www.kelly-mahler.com Upcoming SAOT Workshop Five Keys to Supporting Behavior Regulation, featuring Kelly Mahler and Chloe Rothschild Dates: October 15–16, 2026 Course Overview: This course critically examines traditional behavior-based assessments and supports while introducing neuro-affirming, regulation-focused alternatives. Participants will explore the root causes of behavior regulation needs across diverse learning profiles through the framework of the 5 Keys: building positive relationships, meeting sensory needs, increasing predictability with visual supports, providing communication supports, and empowering interoception. By the end of this training, attendees will be able to describe the limitations of traditional behavior approaches, explain the impact of these 5 Keys on the regulation process, and implement practical strategies applicable to diverse clients and settings. Registration information: https://saot.ca/event/five-keys-to-supporting-behaviour-regulation/ Book Series Connecting My Body Signals, co-authored by Kelly Mahler and Madeleine Mahler.

Welcome to Growing OT, the podcast that's developed and produced by the Society of Alberta Occupational Therapists. SAOT is a voluntary, non-regulatory body that provides networking, education, and advocacy opportunities for its members. SAOT wants to get listeners excited about the fascinating world of occupational therapy. So whether you're an OT, a colleague in a related field, or simply wanting to know more about what we do, we hope you find this podcast informative and inspiring. You can subscribe to Growing OT wherever you get your podcasts, so come grow with us at Growing OT.

We’re thrilled to announce the latest episode of Growing OT! This time, we’re talking about aging in place and accessibility with Margot McWhirter, an inspiring OT with over 30 years of experience in gerontology and home modifications. 🌿🏠 Margot shares her insights on creating accessible environments, fighting ageism, and the importance of designing homes that support older adults in thriving where they live. Whether you’re an OT, caregiver, or interested in inclusive design, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge and heartwarming stories.