Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs – Details, episodes & analysis

Guest: Ashley Muñoz López, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S - In this episode, Renee is joined by Ashley to discuss Disorders of Consciousness. Ashley co-authors the peer-reviewed journal article “A Conscious Approach to Decannulation: Clinical Application of a One-Way Speaking Valve With Disorders of Consciousness.” Join Renee and Ashley as they discuss Disorders of Consciousness (DoC), including coma, vegetative state, and minimally conscious state, as well as assessment and treatment options for these patients. These complex conditions need both expert insight and practical advice to promote recovery. Join us to embark on a topic unfamiliar to many CSD professionals.

Guest: Julie Sullivan, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Julie, the Covid Recovery Center program manager in Boston, MA. Learn what the journey of battling long covid entails, including expert insights, practical advice for navigating patients' challenges, and understanding the recovery process. Join Renee and Julie for an hour of discovery and exploration of research initiatives.

Guest: Patrick Flanigan, Retired Chief EOD Technician, Purple Heart Recipient - In this episode, Renee is joined by Patrick, a retired Navy veteran and TBI survivor. In 2011, Renee and Pat's paths crossed, creating a unique bond. Renee's role as Pat's speech-language pathologist during a pivotal two-month inpatient rehabilitation stay left a lasting impression. Pat's recollection of the distinct functional treatment activities stands out. In 2016, Renee and Pat recorded an educational video for the independent project Outside My Wire. Since then, Pat has continued to recover from the life-changing impacts of the TBI he sustained in 2011. Join Renee and Pat to discover the journey of TBI recovery from the patient's perspective. Trauma Warning: As a trauma-informed care provider, it's important to let you know that this episode may contain subject matter that triggers some listeners. Incidents of traumatic events, injuries, and mental health issues will be discussed. Please listen with caution if these situations are a trauma or mental health concern. While our guest continues to recover from these events, we want to inform you that these events may be difficult to listen to.

Guest: Lisa Milliken, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP, CDP, RAC- CT, CADDCT - In this episode, Renee is joined by Lisa to discuss the impacts of polypharmacy and explore the pathophysiological changes behind drug-induced cognitive impairment, which sheds light on the complexities of this condition. Determining when Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) poses a significant risk is crucial for patient care and recovery, as is understanding how aging changes impact adverse medication reactions. In this episode, join Renee and Lisa as we delve into these topics to enhance our understanding and awareness of cognitive health in medical contexts.

Guest: Nicole DePalma, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Nicole to discuss mobile FEES. Mobile FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is powerful in dysphagia assessment. It improves patients' access to care by providing another option for an instrumental swallowing exam. This episode will delve into what mobile FEES can and cannot provide. Join Renee and Nicole as they share insights on gaining competency in FEES. Let's explore how collaboration can enhance patient outcomes in this crucial area of healthcare.

Guest: Alexandria Wynter Russell, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by, Alexandria to discuss effective treatment plans for the adult patient. In the dynamic field of speech-language pathology, catering treatment plans to individual patient needs is paramount. Let's explore how incorporating patient-centered tasks and goals can elevate the effectiveness of therapy. Join Renee and Alex as we delve into practical strategies to empower SLPs and patients toward improved communication and neurological function.

Trauma Warning: As a trauma-informed care provider, it's important to let you know that this episode may contain subject matter that triggers some listeners. Incidents of traumatic events, injuries, and mental health issues will be discussed. Please listen cautiously if these situations are a trauma or mental health concern. Guest: Carly DeLaurier-Flanigan - In this episode, Renee is joined by Carly who is the spouse and long-term caregiver for her husband, Patrick Flanigan, who has had multiple TBIs. The most recent was in 2011, and it changed the course of both of their lives. The moment the TBI occurred was a pivotal and catastrophic flip of everything they had known. Carly had to navigate everything from loss of income to coverage of therapy costs associated with Patrick's recovery. Carly remains Patrick's biggest advocate, all while working and volunteering with her two Belgian Malinois search and recovery dogs. Join Renee and Carly to unravel the challenges of long-term caregiving and empower yourself with strategies to educate your patients and caregivers.

Guest: Casey Lewis, MS CCC-SLP, CNT, NTMTC - Renee is joined by Casey Lewis, who will discuss her growth as the owner of TexScope, a mobile endoscopy company in Texas, while continuing to nurture her relationships as a hospital employee. Casey will also review advocacy strategies regarding salary negotiation. Finally, Casey will discuss the importance of being intentional in personal and professional relationships, as both are necessary for happiness and career success. Join Renee and Casey for an hour packed with tangible career tools.

Guest: Rene Utianski, PhD., CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Rene Utianski to discuss functional speech disorders. Dr. Utianski’s research focuses on defining these disorders, effective treatment to address them, and cough and related disorders. SLPs are an integral part of the treatment team for these disorders. Join Renee and Rene to learn more about what they are, how we treat them, and how you can get more information to support your practice.

Guest: Jerrold Jackson, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Jerrold Jackson to discuss advocacy, SLPAs, and ways we, as professionals, can incorporate SLPAs into our practice. Jerrold’s experiences with mentorship, supervision, and interprofessional collaboration are integral to the conversation. These topics help us uncover why we continue practicing in the Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences. Join Renee and Jerrold to learn more about these topics in an hour packed with ideas to spark your innovative practice.