After a brain injury, survivors often feel overwhelmed and on edge - one of the reasons for this could be nervous system dysregulation. Today, we are going to talk about nervous system safety and how to incorporate this into our recovery.
In this episode, Cristabelle Braden interviews occupational therapist Shelley Latendresse about the importance of understanding nervous system safety. Shelley shares her personal journey with brain injuries and how it shaped her approach to therapy. They discuss the complexities of the autonomic nervous system, the misdiagnosis of symptoms, and practical steps for creating safety in one's environment and body. It’s important to understand that feeling unsafe can hinder rehabilitation, but self-awareness and self-compassion can go a long way. The journey isn’t always linear, but you are not alone, and there are simple steps you can take today towards nervous system safety.
00:00 Introduction with Cristabelle
04:57 Introducing Shelley and OT
11:31 Exploring the Autonomic Nervous System
19:02 Identifying Symptoms of Dysregulation
31:10 Creating Safety in the Nervous System
39:30 Holistic Approaches to Recovery
48:22 Words of Hope
ABOUT SHELLEY
Shelley is a registered Occupational Therapist from Tsawwassen BC, Canada. She loves hiking, cycling and all things outdoors. Her professional background is in all things neuro, from neurodevelopment to brain injury with specialty training in TBI/Concussion and sensory and reflex integration. Shelley is also a practicing certified yoga instructor with a focus on nervous system management and injury recovery. Shelley is a lifetime member of Concussion Nerds program which dives deep into concussion assessment and treatment and keeps concussion clinicians up to date on best practices.
Shelley has in the past had her own OT clinic, but now works in community settings; equestrian/farm, yoga, sports and more. She loves the versatility of seeing clients in real life, helping them reintegrate into activities they love. She also now coaches ONLINE and runs a with a THREE month signature online Post Concussion Recovery Program which includes Yoga as a recovery practice.
Last but definitely not least, Shelley has walked the persistent concussion path herself; dealing with a history of impaired systems and repeat concussions after a ski crash in 2017. The lack of proper concussion education, empowering treatment and comprehensive care is what prompted her to focus on now serving this population.
Connect: @ot_shelley | otshelley.com
ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate.
Connect: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com
About This Podcast
Have you or a loved one experienced a traumatic brain injury, stroke, concussion, or ABI? This podcast is for you. Sharing hope, support, and education for brain injury survivors, caregivers, and families. Hosted by award-winning TBI survivor, advocate, and singer/songwriter Cristabelle Braden, this is an uplifting podcast to bring hope to your darkest days. Subscribe and stay tuned for messages of encouragement, interviews with professionals, and survivor stories.
Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community
Brain Injury Bible Study | braininjurybiblestudy.com
This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.
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