The Integration Station (Michael Crisci)
Explore every episode of The Integration Station
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07 May 2023 | 'Still sleepy, but awake': Annie O'Connell's sleep wisdom, Pt.2 | 00:35:51 | |
Occupational Therapist and Sleep Specialist Annie O'Connell joins Michael and Dino to discuss how good sleep is one of the biggest factors in quality of life. In second part of this two-part interview, Annie discusses how the sensory world impacts sleep some other sleep tips, her upcoming sleep training and a sleep quiz.
Some resources discussed by Annie in the episode:
Australian sleep health foundation https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au 'A clinical Guide to Pediatric Sleep: Diagnosis and Management of Sleep Problems' by Jodi Mindell and Judith Owens
Podcast: Why we sleep by Matthew walker https://open.spotify.com/episode/1WtITGcwwZYQZHVJGciMJp If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 21 Jun 2021 | A Paediatrician's view on childhood development, medication and what every child needs | 00:48:42 | |
Dino and Esther interview Paediatrician Dr Anthony Chitti, from Adelaide Peadiatrics, Flinders Medical Centre and Calvary Hospital. Dr Chitti unpacks the medical and developmental milestones he looks for in children, as well as 'the thing' he believes every child needs to develop optimally. Dr Chitti and Dino also discuss the common misconceptions about prescribing medication to children and the considerations behind this decision for parents. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 17 Oct 2024 | Disc-o-seats and regulation strategies at school | 00:31:51 | |
The Integration Station continues its Q&A format. We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael and Eleanor discuss the pros and cons of certain classroom sensory tools and items, including the beloved Disc-O-Seat! They also spend time outlining what are some ways that children can obtain needed regulation during a school day during the primary and high school years. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 16 Apr 2023 | 'Sleepy but awake': Annie O'Connell's sleep wisdom, Pt.1 | 00:40:34 | |
Occupational Therapist and Sleep Specialist Annie O'Connell joins Michael and Dino to discuss how good sleep is one of the biggest factors in quality of life. In the first part of this two-part interview, Annie discusses the three main components of sleep, explains melatonin and it's role in sleep, how waterbeds led her to specialise in sleep and answers the most important question, how good are siestas?!
Some resources discussed by Annie in the episode:
Australian sleep health foundation https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au 'A clinical Guide to Pediatric Sleep: Diagnosis and Management of Sleep Problems' by Jodi Mindell and Judith Owens
Podcast: Why we sleep by Matthew walker https://open.spotify.com/episode/1WtITGcwwZYQZHVJGciMJp If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 10 Feb 2024 | The Aarts and Science of Marte Meo with Maria Aarts | 01:01:31 | |
Maria Aarts is in Australia for the first time in 6 years and joins us for a two part series to discuss the Marte Meo Approach. In part one, Maria discusses the approach, how it came to be and what her training offers others. A special thank you to Licensed Marte Meo Supervisor Italia Parletta for organising the interview. For those interested in Marte Meo training in Adelaide, please contact Italia at italia.parletta@gmail.com
Some resources were discussed in the episode and have been listed below:
Marte Meo International Inaugural Words Matter Conference Ayres' Sensory Integration Approach
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 03 Dec 2021 | Fletcher's Story: Parenting a Complex Needs Child | 00:46:52 | |
Kellie Halpin shares her powerful journey caring for her beautiful 8-year-old son, Fletcher, a beloved OTFC client who lives with various diagnoses. Kellie openly shares the struggles, challenges and joys of parenting a complex needs child. She also explores her experiences with various health professionals and therapies, as well as the pressure to 'find a solution' to Fletch's challenges. Kellie and Fletch's stories are real, powerful and inspiring - a must listen for any parent or therapist out there! If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 24 Sep 2023 | Singing the song of music therapy with Natalie Oliveri | 00:57:12 | |
We return for a third season of the Integration Station with Michael hosting music therapist Natalie Oliveri. Natalie gives us an insight into how music therapy supports clients, how to change mood with music and even sings an original song live! Natalie mentions her business, some research and also an interesting phenomenon, the iso-principle, with the links to these listed below. Creative Therapy https://www.creativetherapyadelaide.com.au The iso-principle https://www.creativetherapyadelaide.com.au/music-to-alter-your-mood-iso/ If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 31 Oct 2024 | Global Developmental Delay, Figdet Toys, High School Transitions | 00:27:06 | |
The Integration Station continues its Q&A format. We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael is joined by OTFC Director, Eleanor, to unpack all things Global Developmental Delay, Fidget Toys and, High School Transitions.
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 05 Feb 2025 | Working with Non-Verbal Clients & Reinforcement Behaviour Explained | 00:40:22 | |
This week we take a look at the best way we can support non-speaking and non-verbal clients, and unpack what reinforcement behaviour is. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 30 Jan 2025 | A Lesson In Stress Management - Michelle Mennillo | 00:36:49 | |
This week, we take the back seat and let our CEO Michelle Mennillo to walk us through a lesson in Stress Management. But Michelle’s story goes beyond professional achievements. Like many, she has battled self-doubt, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome. Refusing to let these struggles define her, she embraced the hard work of growth, self-awareness, and resilience. This week Michelle shares her insights and proven strategies to help professionals unlock their limitless potential, embrace their true selves, and leave an indelible mark on the world. It's something different from our format, but equally as impactful and informative for you to take into your week hopefully having found new insight to show up in life the way you want to. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 03 Apr 2025 | Children & Adolescent Mental Health Conference - Wrap | 00:36:04 | |
Last week, we travelled all the way up to the Gold Coast for the annual Children and Adolescent Mental Health Conference #CAMH25 to hear from industry experts on how we can all aim to provide better outcomes for the young people in our lives. On this week's episode, Michael welcomes Dino back to the podcast. They unpack the key takeaways from the conference, the importance of sensory rooms, and how to manage social media and it's effect on young people's sense of identity and mental health. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 24 Sep 2024 | Can you help my child find a job, ADHD Interventions, Continence Care Plans | 00:20:06 | |
The Integration Station returns with a Q&A format! We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael is joined by OTFC Director, Eleanor, to briefly discuss thoughts how OTs can assist with identifying skills required for the workforce, the role of OT in supporting young people with ADHD and what a continence care plan is and how OTs can assist. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 24 Feb 2024 | Part 2 of The Aarts and Science of Marte Meo with Maria Aarts | 00:59:43 | |
Maria Aarts is in Australia for the first time in 6 years and joins us for part two of a two part series to discuss the Marte Meo Approach. In part two, Maria outlines the scope of Marte Meo in a variety of settings, her love of cooking, life with 13 siblings and an introduction to Italia Parletta and how Marte Meo is a way of life. A special thank you to Licensed Marte Meo Supervisor Italia Parletta for organising the interview. For those interested in Marte Meo training in Adelaide, please contact Italia at italia.parletta@gmail.com
Some resources were discussed in the episode and have been listed below:
Marte Meo International Inaugural Words Matter Conference Ayres' Sensory Integration Approach
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 17 Nov 2024 | Early Intervention, Disengaging At School, Body Socks | 00:21:00 | |
Michael and Eleanor run through your questions about early intervention criteria, managing challenges at school, and how to use a body sock to regulate your young person.If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from
listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or
colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the
better!
If you have any questions you'd like answered, please send a question
to the integration station via Instagram or our email
podcast@otfcgroup.au
| |||
| 27 Nov 2024 | Teeth Grinding, Core Strength, How To Chose The Right School | 00:24:14 | |
Back to regular programming this week with Eleanor and Michael tackling a few questions asked by our parents in our OT sessions.
We delve into why teeth grinding could mean you need oral regulation, go through some core control activities that your young person won't even know they're working and how to work towards choosing the right school for your young person. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from
listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or
colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the
better!
If you have any questions you'd like answered, please send a question
to the integration station via Instagram or our email
podcast@otfcgroup.au
| |||
| 17 Jan 2025 | Helping young people listen to their body, Stimming & Regulation. | 00:33:43 | |
We're back for season 5 in 2025. We take the questions that have been sent in by our audience about interception and helping your young person to stim and regulate at home. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 03 Oct 2024 | Screen Time, Impusivity, Kicking and screaming at home after school | 00:29:39 | |
The Integration Station continues its Q&A format. We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael and Eleanor briefly discuss thoughts on screen time and younger children, the challenges and where it could be okay, how to work through impulsivity and does it change? and what might be happening for a young person having big emotions after school. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 04 Dec 2024 | Audio Sensitivity, Sensory vs Attention Difficulties, My Young Person Doesn't Like Therapy | 00:33:22 | |
Michael and Eleanor unpack a few questions from our parents like why do children with auditory sensitivities tend to make a lot of noise themselves, what the difference between sensory vs attention difficulties are, and how to manage a conversation with your young person if they're not liking therapy. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from
listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or
colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the
better!
If you have any questions you'd like answered, please send a question
to the integration station via Instagram or our email
podcast@otfcgroup.au
| |||
| 19 Feb 2023 | California Dreamin Pt.2 (feat. Dr Susanne Smith Roley) | 00:52:48 | |
In this episode we are fortunate enough to speak to Dr Smith Roley for a second time. Dr Smith Roley is an occupational therapist with over 40 years of experience in paediatric practice. She has been at the forefront of Ayres’ Sensory Integration research and clinical practice for many years and along with Dr Zoe Mailloux, is a founding partner of CLASI (Collaborative for Leadership in Sensory Integration) and first-generation student of Dr Jean Ayres. With CLASI, she is providing a sensory integration certificate education program, offered in many countries around the world. In this chat, we cover the current state of the EASI (Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration), recent data on trends in sensorimotor development, the impact of funding models on accessing care and whether or not Susanne likes cheese... Throughout this chat, and in Susanne's last chat, she makes reference to aspects of SI research and the role of her organisation, CLASI. Links to some of these areas can be found here.
Understanding the Nature of Sensory Integration with Diverse Populations Newell Kephart – brief biography ISIC Program https://www.cl-asi.org/program International Council for Education in Ayres Sensory Integration CLASI Previous Podcast with Dr Susanne Smith Roley - OT school house https://www.otschoolhouse.com/single-post/sensory-63) ASI 2020 Vision https://sites.google.com/site/2020asivision/home 2019 Article by Lane et al. on the Neural foundations in Ayres Sensory Integration https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334103176_Neural_Foundations_of_Ayres_Sensory_IntegrationR
A selection of current evidence-based research regarding the use of Ayres' Sensory Integration for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Bodison, S. C., & Parham, L. D. (2018). Specific sensory techniques and sensory environmental modifications for children and youth with sensory integration difficulties: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72, 7201190040.https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.029413 Bodison, S. C. (2015). Developmental dyspraxia and the play skills of children with autism. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 69, 6905185060. http://dx.doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2015.017954 Hume, K., Steinbrenner, J.R., Odom, S.L., Morin, K.L., Nowell, S.W., Tomaszewski, B., Szendrey, S., McIntyre, N.S., Yucesoy‑Ozkan, S. Savage, M.N. (2020). Evidence‑Based Practices for Children, Youth, and Young Adults with Autism: Third Addieeration Review.Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04844-2 Lamash, L., Grady-Dominguez, P., Mailloux, Z., Parham, L. D., Schaaf, R. C., Smith Roley, S., & Gal, E. (2022). Brief Report—EASI Praxis tests: Age trends and internal consistency.American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 76, 7602345020.https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2022.049145 Odom, S.L., Hall, L.J., Morin, K.L., Kraemer, B.R., Hume, K.A., McIntyre, N.S., Nowell, S.W., Steinbrenner, J.R., Tomaszewski, B., Sam, A.M., DaWalt, L. (2021). Educational Interventions for Children and Youth with Autism: A 40‑Year Perspective.Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-04990-1 Omairi, C. (2022). Effect of occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration®: A randomized trial. American Journal of Occupational Therapy. https://research.aota.org/ajot/article/76/4/7604205160/23325/Occupational-Therapy-Using-Ayres-Sensory Pfeiffer, B., Frolek Clark, G., & Arbesman, M. (2018). Effectiveness of cognitive and occupation-based interventions for children with challenges in sensory processing and integration: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72, 7201190020. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.028233 Schaaf, R. C. (2011). Interventions that address sensory dysfunction for individuals with autism spectrum disorders: Preliminary evidence for the superiority of sensory integration compared to other sensory approaches. In B.Reichow, P.Doehring, D. V.Cichetti, & F. R.Volkmar (Eds.), Evidence-based practices and treatments for children with autism (pp. 245–273). New York: Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6975-0_9 Schaaf, R. C., Benevides, T., Mailloux, Z., Faller, P., Hunt, J., van Hooydonk, E., . . . Kelly, D. (2014). An intervention for sensory difficulties in children with autism: A randomized trial. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 44, 1493–1506. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-013-1983-8 Schoen, S.A., Lane, S.J., Mailloux, A., May-Benson, T., Parham, L.D., Smith Roley, S. & Schaaf, R.C. (2018). A Systematic Review of Ayres Sensory Integration Intervention for Children with Autism. Autism Research, 1-14_._ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/aur.2046 Smith Roley, S., Mailloux, Z., Parham, L. D., Schaaf, R. C., Lane, C. J., & Cermak, S. (2015). Sensory integration and praxis patterns in children with autism. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 69, 6901220010. http://dx.doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2015.012476 If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 13 Nov 2022 | The Principal of Special Education is the family's choice: In conversation with Cathy Sires | 00:54:11 | |
In this episode we will hear from Cathy Sires, the Principal of St Patrick’s Special School in Dulwich. From Principal positions in rural South Australia in Maree and Nepabunna Aboriginal Schools, to the last 6 years at St Patrick's, Cathy shares her story and the importance of Special Schools. Cathy has been a passionate and strong leader in education for children with additional needs and gives some great insight into her teaching experience, personal life and how the children and young people she works with everyday give her inspiration.
based on royal commission hearing on 7th June
Phasing out of special schools
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbANTGyuOp4 Crunchy granola suite
Cathy's work on the Co-Principal model
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 26 Mar 2025 | The Default Mode Network, Neuroaffirming Language & The Double Empathy Problem | 00:29:47 | |
This week we discover what Milton's double empathy problem is and how it can affect the young people in our lives and we learn all about the default mode network. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 22 Jan 2025 | The National Autism Strategy, Back To School Tips & Humour in Therapy | 00:31:41 | |
This week we cover the recently released National Autism Strategy and get how it will practically help the community, cover some strategies to manage the back to school routines, and ask the question - is there room for humour in therapy? If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 31 May 2021 | The story behind Occupational Therapy For Children | 01:08:42 | |
Dino and Esther chat with Occupational Therapist and Kinesiologist, Veronica Steer, who founded OTFC over 30 years ago. Veronica shares how OTFC came to be, how it evolved and why she passed on the practice to Dino and Michelle Mennillo in 2005. Veronica also shares why Ayres Sensory Integration therapy is so effective and how OT can help to integrate children's primitive reflexes. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 20 Feb 2025 | Baby Sensory vs ASI® - What's the difference? | 00:33:04 | |
What's all this sensory stuff about? Is sensory play ASI“? What's the difference? If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 19 Mar 2025 | Sensory Integration for the Neurodiverse Population - The Research | 00:41:02 | |
This week we field your questions asking more about Sensory Integration for the neurodiverse population and walk you through some strategies to help your young person get to sleep from an OT lens! If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 05 Feb 2023 | Mel: The person behind Child Psychiatrist Dr Melanie Turner | 00:50:36 | |
Dr Melaine Turner discusses her upbringing, school life, undertaking a medical exam with a one year old and answering a quick Psychiatrists quiz! Dr Turner's Practice Chinese musical instrument: The Erhu https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erhu
For the younger generation, who may not be as familiar with some of Dr Turner's references... Holly Hobbie https://wallpapercave.com/holly-hobbie-wallpapers Bonanza https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonanza If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 25 Dec 2024 | Holiday Activities, Generalised Learning for Sensory Integration, Increasing Interoceptive Awareness | 00:22:22 | |
We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 02 Feb 2021 | Talking all things sensory with Dr Zoe Mailloux | 00:45:21 | |
Calling in from California, Zoe shares her experience working as an Occupational Therapist during a global pandemic. Zoe describes the origin, evidence-base and principles of Ayres Sensory Integration therapy, sharing invaluable advice to parents, teachers and therapists caring for children with sensory integration difficulties. Zoe also unpacks the vision behind the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration (EASI) assessment initiative, striving to increase the accessibility of Dr Jean Ayres' work around the world. You don't want to miss this opportunity to hear from Sensory Integration royalty!
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 10 May 2021 | Communication is more than words: the Speech Pathology role | 00:48:12 | |
Dino and Esther catch up with Andrea Ferguson, Senior Speech Pathologist and Clinical Manager of TALK Speech Pathology. Andrea shares key communication milestones for kids and strategies for working with children with speech delays. Andrea also unpacks the Speech Pathology role, Assistive Communication Devices, as well as the demand for rural clinicians. Speech Pathology Australia Communication Milestone resource: https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/SPAweb/Resources_for_the_Public/Children_Communication_Milestones/SPAweb/Resources_for_the_Public/Communication_Milestones/Communication_Milestones.aspx?hkey=fb6753df-a757-4c4a-8100-aaebdd4451fd If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | Dyspraxia Picky Eating, W Sitting Position - What does is mean? | 00:27:46 | |
The Integration Station continues its Q&A format. We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael and Eleanor discuss what really is Dyspraxia and what works to support it, how to explore picky eating in a supported manner and what is w-sitting and what does it mean? If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 17 Sep 2021 | Occupational Therapy Student, Autism Spectrum Disorder Advocate, Actor, Dancer, Producer, Mentor: Kate's Story | 00:49:53 | |
Esther unpacks Kate Watts inspiring story. Kate is an OTFC client and University of South Australia Occupational Therapy student who advocates for young people on the Autism Spectrum. Formally diagnosed when she was 16 years of age, Kate shares how she felt liberated by her diagnosis and now benefits from regular OT and Psychology support. Kate mentors younger adolescents on the Spectrum through volunteer and paid work at Mark Le Messuirer's What's the Buzz program. She is also a member of Tutti Art's 'Company AT' drama program, where she acts and produces with other performers on the Autism Spectrum. The Impersonal Questions Video by Company AT can be found here. https://www.facebook.com/watch/CountryArtsSA/382575162913855/ If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 29 Sep 2022 | California Dreamin: an hour with Dr Susanne Smith Roley | 00:58:32 | |
Throughout the chat, Susanne makes reference to aspects of SI research and the role of her organisation, CLASI. Links to some of these areas can be found here.
Understanding the Nature of Sensory Integration with Diverse Populations Newell Kephart – brief biography ISIC Program https://www.cl-asi.org/program International Council for Education in Ayres Sensory Integration CLASI Previous Podcast with Dr Susanne Smith Roley - OT school house https://www.otschoolhouse.com/single-post/sensory-63) ASI 2020 Vision https://sites.google.com/site/2020asivision/home 2019 Article by Lane et al. on the Neural foundations in Ayres Sensory Integration https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334103176_Neural_Foundations_of_Ayres_Sensory_IntegrationR
A selection of current evidence-based research regarding the use of Ayres' Sensory Integration for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Bodison, S. C., & Parham, L. D. (2018). Specific sensory techniques and sensory environmental modifications for children and youth with sensory integration difficulties: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72, 7201190040.https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.029413 Bodison, S. C. (2015). Developmental dyspraxia and the play skills of children with autism. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 69, 6905185060. http://dx.doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2015.017954 Hume, K., Steinbrenner, J.R., Odom, S.L., Morin, K.L., Nowell, S.W., Tomaszewski, B., Szendrey, S., McIntyre, N.S., Yucesoy‑Ozkan, S. Savage, M.N. (2020). Evidence‑Based Practices for Children, Youth, and Young Adults with Autism: Third Addieeration Review.Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04844-2 Lamash, L., Grady-Dominguez, P., Mailloux, Z., Parham, L. D., Schaaf, R. C., Smith Roley, S., & Gal, E. (2022). Brief Report—EASI Praxis tests: Age trends and internal consistency.American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 76, 7602345020.https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2022.049145 Odom, S.L., Hall, L.J., Morin, K.L., Kraemer, B.R., Hume, K.A., McIntyre, N.S., Nowell, S.W., Steinbrenner, J.R., Tomaszewski, B., Sam, A.M., DaWalt, L. (2021). Educational Interventions for Children and Youth with Autism: A 40‑Year Perspective.Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-04990-1 Omairi, C. (2022). Effect of occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration®: A randomized trial. American Journal of Occupational Therapy. https://research.aota.org/ajot/article/76/4/7604205160/23325/Occupational-Therapy-Using-Ayres-Sensory Pfeiffer, B., Frolek Clark, G., & Arbesman, M. (2018). Effectiveness of cognitive and occupation-based interventions for children with challenges in sensory processing and integration: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72, 7201190020. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.028233 Schaaf, R. C. (2011). Interventions that address sensory dysfunction for individuals with autism spectrum disorders: Preliminary evidence for the superiority of sensory integration compared to other sensory approaches. In B.Reichow, P.Doehring, D. V.Cichetti, & F. R.Volkmar (Eds.), Evidence-based practices and treatments for children with autism (pp. 245–273). New York: Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6975-0_9 Schaaf, R. C., Benevides, T., Mailloux, Z., Faller, P., Hunt, J., van Hooydonk, E., . . . Kelly, D. (2014). An intervention for sensory difficulties in children with autism: A randomized trial. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 44, 1493–1506. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-013-1983-8 Schoen, S.A., Lane, S.J., Mailloux, A., May-Benson, T., Parham, L.D., Smith Roley, S. & Schaaf, R.C. (2018). A Systematic Review of Ayres Sensory Integration Intervention for Children with Autism. Autism Research, 1-14_._ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/aur.2046 Smith Roley, S., Mailloux, Z., Parham, L. D., Schaaf, R. C., Lane, C. J., & Cermak, S. (2015). Sensory integration and praxis patterns in children with autism. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 69, 6901220010. http://dx.doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2015.012476 If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 12 Feb 2025 | What are Function Capacity Assessments? Applying Executive Function in ASI® | 00:38:53 | |
This week we delve into the history of Functional Capacity Assessments and why their outcomes, and how ASI® helps our young friends with their executive function. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 18 Dec 2024 | NDIS Funding Changes to Music Therapy, Therapressure Brushing, Harm in ABA | 00:17:58 | |
This week Edie joins Michael to unpack questions about other therapies outside of the ASI® scope. We cover funding changes in the NDIS regarding music therapy, what the Willbarger Protocol is and where you might study it, and cover an OT's concern about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 16 Sep 2024 | Season 4 trailer & R U OK? Day | 00:12:45 | |
We have been on quite a hiatus, however the Integration Station is looking to return for a Fourth Season in the coming weeks. We are previewing this with a brief chat between two of our excellent OTs, Siena and Tyson, who talk on R U OK? Day about supporting the well being of children in tricky period 7-10 years of age. We look forward to providing more content for you all and giving further insight into the world of OT and how to support your children.
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 30 Oct 2022 | Navigating the Abyss: Thomas' lived experience as a young person on the autism spectrum | 00:45:46 | |
Thomas provides an engaging insight into his experiences growing up as a young person on the spectrum. If you like this episode, please subscribe to The Integration Station on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to get each episode as they are released. Please also feel free to give us a short review if you have 30 seconds! We hope to have a Q+A episode in the future, so please send any questions you’d like discussed to podcast@otfc.com.au
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 08 Mar 2021 | Parenting 'tough' kids with Mark Le Messurier | 00:44:35 | |
Mark shares his heart behind the internationally acclaimed 'What's the Buzz?' program. He also unpacks his top parenting tips when caring for 'tough' kids and his perspective on the number one issue young people face today - loneliness. If you're a parent, caregiver, support worker, teacher or therapist - you won't want to miss this! Mark is a legend and a good laugh!! If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 19 Mar 2023 | Mel Pt.2: The doctor behind Child Psychiatrist Dr Melanie Turner | 00:54:48 | |
Dr Melaine Turner, or Mel to her clients, is a one of Adelaide's few Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists. I the first part, Mel discusses more about her personal life and her time leading up to medicine. In this second part with Mel, she discusses more about her clinical work, the concerns over screen time use trends, challenges facing children in guardianship care and the process involved in supporting the transition from adolescent to adult psychiatry. Dr Turner's Practice If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 22 May 2023 | A diamond tiara or nothing at all: the neurodiverse brain with Becky Blake | 01:13:41 | |
In the season finale, Michael and Dino chat to Becky Blake - tutor, mentor, mother and musician. Having a lived experience of ADHD, Becky discusses the benefits of a brain that is wired differently and how it assists her in her music and teaching. Becky gives the listeners an insight into her family life growing up in country Australia and how it shaped her interest in music, how ADHD has supported her creativity and the importance of an effective work life balance - including time to entertain others!
Becky's website
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 22 Sep 2022 | Integration Station Season 2 Trailer | 00:00:25 | |
We are excited to announce that The Integration Station will soon be returning for a second season! Dino, along with new host, Michael, will be introducing you to more of the amazing people we are fortunate to meet everyday. We can’t wait to reveal who will be joining us in the guest seat this season. Stay tuned and subscribe to get the latest episodes as they are released.
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 21 Nov 2024 | Dr Susanne Smith Roley - The Future of Sensory Integration Q&A | 00:45:52 | |
This special episode sees Dr Susanne Smith Roley host a Q&A session at our Parkside Clinic.
Susanne is an occupational therapist with more than 30 years of experience in paediatrics. She obtained her BS in OT at Indiana University, her MS in Allied Health Sciences at Boston University and her OTD at University of Southern California. She is in private practice in Orange County in Southern California and co-founder of the Collaborative for Leadership in Ayres Sensory Integration (CLASI).
She is an internationally recognised author and lecturer on the theory and application of sensory integration and managed to generously donate her time to feild some questions from our staff. Here she covers everything from managing burnout, the future of Sensory Integration, ASI® & autism, testing Adults using the EASI assessment and so much more.
So grab a pen and paper (or keyboard/computer), and get ready to take notes from insights from one of the pioneers of ASI®.If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from
listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or
colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the
better!
If you have any questions you'd like answered, please send a question
to the integration station via Instagram or our email
podcast@otfcgroup.au
| |||
| 11 Dec 2024 | Personal Space Bubbles, Highly Sensitive Kids & School Refusal | 00:27:39 | |
This week Michael is joined by our Parkside Clinical Lead, Edie! We dive into your questions about how to teach your young person about personal space, supporting highly sensitive kids, and discuss tips to manage school refusal. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 16 Oct 2022 | OTFC's Bigger Brother: Ten years of Tyson Klaassen-Smith | 00:52:44 | |
This year marks Tyson Klaassen-Smith's 10th year at OTFC and we couldn't help but take up the opportunity to chat to one of OTFC’s most loved, and longest serving OT’s. Father, amateur carpenter and mentor to many – Tyson has been such an important part of OTFC for many years. Loved by his families and staff alike, Tyson embodies the values of OTFC and OT in general. Michael and Tyson chat talk about all things OT, Sensory Integration, values, play, family life and who you'd choose to save you if you were trapped in a lift?! If you like what you have heard, follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Any questions can be sent to podcast@otfc.com.au or via OTFC Group Website: otfcgroup.com.au/podcast/ If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 10 Apr 2021 | Understanding the anxious child with Kerry Burke | 00:42:12 | |
Dino and Esther chat with Senior Clinical Psychologist Kerry Burke, who established the Children's Early Development Assessment Service (CEDAS) at Psychology South Australia. When assessing, Kerry discusses the importance of understanding the whole child before jumping to diagnostic boxes. Kerry shares key strategies when working with highly anxious children and girls living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Kerry also unpacks the importance of a collaborative relationship between a child's psychologist and OT. Kerry refers to the following resources:
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 02 Apr 2023 | The Three Pillars of Dr Libby Weaver | 00:58:59 | |
Nutritional Biochemist, Dr Libby Weaver, joins Michael and Dino to discuss her approach to health, food and wellbeing. Libby discusses her three pillared approach exploring the interplay between nutrition, emotions and biochemistry. Libby also enlightens us on her family history and how she got into nutrition, her research on the gut and children with ASD, the role language can have on food choices, what are 'healthiest' fast food options and how hot chips are the best guilty pleasure!
Dr Libby's website https://www.drlibby.com/about-dr-libby/ Bio Blends Shake off Sugar https://shop.drlibby.com/go/shake-off-sugar?v=13b249c5dfa9 Dr Weaver's reference list (for interested readers) https://www.drlibby.com/additional-references/
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 08 Nov 2024 | Handling big emotions, Handwriting Assessments, ISIC 2024 Wrap | 00:30:09 | |
The Integration Station continues its Q&A format. We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael is joined by OTFC Clinical Director, Eleanor, to unpack all things ISIC, drill down on handwriting assessments, and what to say when managing big emotions after a young person comes home from school. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 05 Mar 2025 | Celebrating Neurodiversity Month - What is Neurodiversity? | 00:23:13 | |
Neurodiversity Week is coming up on March 17th-23rd and we thought it was appropriate to celebrate neurodiversity for the entire month of March. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 05 Mar 2023 | From A to C: Alana Lenart's pivot | 00:57:27 | |
In this episode Michael and Dino are joined by counsellor Alana Lenart. Alana reveals how she moved from her long career in aviation to counselling as a result of her lived experience with her autistic son. Alana discusses her journey and how counselling has allowed her to support families in ways she felt were missing when she was going through a similar experience. Alana has collaborated with Emily Bourke (Assistant Minister for Autism) and has advocated for families of neurodiverse children within Adelaide and rurally. Alana's story gives incredible insight into how life experiences can shape and reshape a person https://www.alanalenart.com.au
If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 12 Mar 2025 | Exploring an Adult ADHD Diagnosis - A Conversation with Siena | 00:37:49 | |
It's Neurodiversity Month all this month on The Integration Station. This week we have the privilege of sitting down with one of our OT's Siena to talk about receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 27 Nov 2022 | Putting the Occupation in Occupational Therapy with Dr Ben Sellar | 00:57:21 | |
In this episode Michael talks with Dr Ben Sellar, Lecturer in Occupational Therapy at the University of South Australia. Ben gives insights on the UniSA degree, the role of occupation and what that means in OT, play and development and the role of screen time for children growing up in a technological moment. If you like this episode, please subscribe to The Integration Station on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to get each episode as they are released. Please also feel free to give us a short review if you have 30 seconds! We hope to have a Q+A episode in the future, so please send any questions you’d like discussed to podcast@otfc.com.au Ben references some material in the discussion, with some links below: Ian Bogost Article: Risky Play and Children's Safety (Brussoni et al., 2012) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3499858/ Nature Deficit Disorder https://richardlouv.com/blog/what-is-nature-deficit-disorder/ If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 10 Oct 2024 | Handwriting, co-regulating with opposite needs and big emotions at drop off | 00:28:47 | |
The Integration Station continues its Q&A format. We take your questions, share some knowledge and try to find the fun in what we are learning. In this episode Michael and Eleanor briefly discuss thoughts on why OTs are often asked to work on handwriting and the importance of foundation skills in effective handwriting, how to think through a situation where your child has different sensory needs to your own and why big feelings may occur at a drop off to early learning and school, and what to do to support. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||
| 26 Feb 2025 | Why do children lie & unpacking the research of ASI® & ADHD | 00:39:45 | |
This week we're unpacking why children lie and how to manage it and we answer your question about the research of ASI® and ADHD. If you liked something we talked about, or you learned something from listening to us, share it with your friends, family, uni classmates or colleagues. The more people that know about occupational therapy, the better! | |||