Occupational therapists Amy and Evelyn Gutman explore baby development and early anxiety prevention in this episode. They challenge the myth that young children simply "grow out of" anxiety, pointing out that disorders are increasingly diagnosed in children as young as four.The hosts explain “physiological anxiety”—early signs like sleep issues, separation anxiety, and GI problems—which stem from nervous system immaturity rather than trauma. They stress the importance of early bonding, developmental milestones, and reflex integration, especially those related to the vestibular system, in building emotional regulation.Maternal stress, tummy time, sleep, and feeding routines all impact a baby’s ability to handle stress. Amy and Evelyn emphasize early intervention and urge parents to trust their instincts, seek support, and understand that even well-cared-for babies can face developmental challenges.They close by encouraging parents to learn more about early development and to reach out for guidance—reminding listeners the podcast is for educational purposes and not a substitute for medical advice.

This podcast delves into children's reading and writing challenges, emphasizing the importance of sensory systems in literacy development. Amy and Evelyn Gutman address common misconceptions about reading difficulties, particularly the overlooked roles of vestibular and proprioceptive systems. They encourages parents and educators to assess children's sensory and motor skills, offers practical support strategies, and highlights the need for professional help when necessary. Resources for further assistance are also provided, promoting active parental involvement in their children's learning journey.

"From Chaos to Clarity" explores the Amy's tumultuous week filled with personal and professional hurdles while managing a business development initiative with her sister Evelyn. The discussion highlights the challenges of logistical issues and household responsibilities, emphasizing that achieving control can be more important than seeking calmness. Through personal anecdotes, Amy and Evelyn illustrates how perception shapes our experience of chaos and the value of small, manageable actions. Listeners are encouraged to engage in simpler tasks and to connect with children about their preferred activities, reinforcing that small steps can lead to clarity and accomplishment amidst the chaos.

Amy and Evelyn discuss misophonia and hyperacusis, which involve a heightened sensitivity to sounds. Misophonia triggers strong emotional or psychological responses to specific sounds, leading to physical discomfort and aggressive behaviors, while hyperacusis causes general sounds to be perceived as louder than normal. These conditions can coexist and significantly impact daily life. The episode emphasizes recognizing these sensitivities as real and debilitating disorders similar to mental health conditions like anxiety or OCD. It highlights the need for a dual approach to treatment, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of sound sensitivities. The importance of validating and supporting individuals with these conditions and making accommodations to help them manage their sensitivities is stressed. Additionally, the podcast mentions an upcoming webinar on misophonia treatments and encourages listener engagement and feedback.

The podcast episode titled "Anxiety Dissected" discusses the topic of anxiety and its various components. Amy and Evelyn acknowledge that anxiety is a hot topic in today's society and that it has medical, psychological, and cognitive components. They explain how anxiety can manifest as feelings of being overwhelmed, difficulty achieving goals, and problems with executive functioning skills. They also mention physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal issues. Amy and Evelyn highlight the importance of understanding the physiological basis of anxiety and discuss sensory systems, hidden systems, reflex integration, and neurochemical imbalances. They emphasize that anxiety is a complex issue that can have a significant impact on individuals' lives and overall well-being. They share personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate the challenges individuals with anxiety face. Amy and Evelyn conclude by announcing a four-day boot camp called "Hacking Anxiety" that aims to provide tools and strategies to address anxiety based on participants' physiological profiles.

This podcast explores the ongoing debate between sensory and behavioral issues in therapy and education. It highlights the challenges faced by parents, teachers, and therapists in differentiating between the two. The importance of understanding the physiological aspects of behavior, including sensory issues, trauma, and developmental milestones, is emphasized. Tailoring interventions based on individual brain profiles and promoting effective adaptive responses are crucial for a child's development. Amy and Evelyn emphasize the significance of input from teachers and professionals in making informed decisions and interventions. Approaching behavior with humility and exploring underlying causes is essential to avoid detrimental approaches.

The podcast episode discusses the topic of self-regulation and its development throughout different stages of life. Amy and Evelyn explain that babies are not born with the ability to regulate themselves and that self-regulation is a skill that needs to be learned. They introduce the concept of the "fourth trimester," which refers to the period after birth when babies still require external help to regulate their physiological responses. Amy and Evelyn emphasize the role of co-regulation in the development of self-regulation in babies, highlighting the importance of caregivers providing a regulated and calm environment. They also stress the significance of taking care of basic physiological functions, such as sleep and eating, as building blocks for self-regulation. They mention that self-regulation is not a static process and can change throughout life, emphasizing the need for personalized techniques and self-awareness. They conclude by highlighting the importance of self-regulation in executive functioning, emotional regulation, and interpersonal connections, and invite listeners to join their self-regulation challenge.

Please note:  Sexual trauma content is discussed during this podcast episode.  Please be advised if listening with sound on before children.   Disclaimer:  Evelyn's Question Starts: 42:25 - Ending: 49:51 Rape/Incest Story: Starts: 51:34 - Ends: 54:41 Important note about this podcast: At times during the interview, there were intense moments.  At about mark 42:25, Evelyn shares a question to reflect the pain of those who may be experiencing abuse currently.  We wanted to share this for anyone who may be sensitive to such a discussion at this time.    Dr. Demartini expresses the approach at about mark 51:34, he suggests that victims of abuse should take. We differ in many ways with his approach. In fact, we differ so strongly that we considered removing that section from the podcast recording. (In short, Dr. Demartini is espousing a particular cognitive approach to dealing with the trauma of abuse. But trauma neurologically affects the amygdala - the more primitive, visceral aspect of our brains - and not the prefrontal cortex - the cognitive, intellectual aspect of our brains. Therefore, the primary approach to healing from the trauma of abuse needs to address the deeper, sub-conscious neurological impact.) In the end, however, we decided to leave the section in, because we respect the right of others to express opinions different than our own. Additionally, we feel that there are a small number of situations where his approach may be valid. But if you have suffered abuse, be aware that this section may be both triggering and potentially unhelpful. 

In this engaging podcast discussion, Amy and Evelyn, neuro-developmental occupational therapists, delve into the critical aspects of learning readiness, regulation, and emotional development, underscoring their pivotal role in achieving academic and behavioral excellence. The conversation emphasizes the significance of addressing precursor skills, including neurochemical components, gross motor skills, balance skills, and sensory systems, as a proactive measure to prevent potential challenges in the future. Amy and Evelyn shed light on the profound impact of early intervention while navigating the complexities of securing services for older children. Their insights extend to practical suggestions for specific issues, such as knee walking and fisted penmanship. The conversation extends to the importance of selecting developmentally appropriate toys and setting limits on screen time. The podcast concludes by encouraging parents to actively seek support and information, empowering them to make informed decisions about their child's developmental journey.

The podcast delves into the intricate relationship between sleep and eating issues in babies, revealing the profound impact of hunger and fullness levels on the ability to fall asleep. Amy explores the developmental nuances of sleep and nutrition in infants, emphasizing that their sleep patterns are uniquely influenced by stomach size. As infants grow and their tolerance for food increases, their sleep patterns undergo a shift. Amy underscores the crucial role of nutrition in brain development, stressing the need to ensure babies receive adequate food. The discussion extends to the reciprocal influence of sleep on feeding issues and vice versa. Amy highlights the importance of establishing a consistent sleep routine, allowing babies to naturally relax and fall asleep. Genetics also play a role in sleep patterns, prompting parents to observe and adjust daytime preparations for better sleep. Additionally, the podcast underscores the significance of addressing physiological and muscular issues that may impact feeding. Amy suggests exercises and therapies to tackle sensory system and reflex-related challenges. In conclusion, Amy emphasizes the interconnectedness of sleep and eating, emphasizing the pivotal role of regulatory responses in both aspects. In a concise summary, sleep and eating issues in babies are interconnected, influenced by hunger, fullness, nutritional needs, and developmental factors. Establishing a consistent sleep routine is crucial, and addressing various factors like muscular or physiological issues is essential for overall well-being. Understanding the connection between sleep and eating facilitates better management of issues in babies and children.

You can be a highly sensitive person without a formal diagnosis. Some diagnoses include aspects of high sensitivity, but can be highly sensitive without anything else being “wrong.” And when there is no diagnosis, then it can be overlooked. If realize that there is a physiological way body interprets internal and external stimuli, then can address that in way that you can’t with a personality thing. People who feel sense of urgency in certain situations - crowds, hunger. And often can’t articulate what it is that’s prompting that feeling. Just go through days and feel this unrest.  Even when you identify feelings (e.g. fear), because don’t know what’s causing that feeling, feel funny verbalizing it (if intelligent). Big issue in relationships (family, employers, employees) to be overwhelmed internally without the ability to share those feelings. Can prevent from showing true self. People feel like they need to “walk on eggshells” around them. Can lead to resentment on both sides and also issues down the line for the highly sensitive person, like depression. Another component of being highly sensitive - because feeling so much without being aware - can have strong (over)reactions to perceived injustice or criticism. Intensity is way of expressing feeling out of control.  Black-and white thinking is sometimes coming from a physiological loop response. Need to be that way in order to feel the control that they are not getting from their own physiology. The intensity is not necessarily a reflection of who and what they are and think.  If reach an impasse, may need to table a conversation In survey they did, biggest issue for HSP in workplace is “Feeling misunderstood” - and that creates self-esteem issues and self-image issues. How can you support someone like that (when they are being very black and white, my way or the highway) when they do not have that awareness on their own?  Try to disconnect for a bit; they will need time to interrupt that physiological loop and access the intellect. Also validate - reflect and pause. Don’t need to agree, but validate. HSP are very sensitive to others’ emotions and signals also. Can pick up on intentions, honesty. So if you switch what you’re doing, go away from the regular script, you change a variable for them and that can help them shift. Positive side - when HSP is more regulated, extra open to creativity, connection to others, new experiences.

Early birds and night owls. Catching some Z’s, winks and shut-eye. Jet lag and insomnia. Why do we need to sleep, anyway? In this podcast, Amy and Evelyn delve into the impact of sleep on our lives, and how it influences our children’s and teens’ development and our daily functioning as adults. They reveal how much sleep affects what we can do the following day, as well as how much our daily actions affect how we sleep the following night. Amy and Evelyn also touch on what happens in your body when you use a screen device (including Kindles!) close to bedtime, the pros and cons of using natural supplements like melatonin, and how our society’s attitude toward sleep may mess up our health. A must-hear!

PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) is a condition in which high levels of strep antibodies can end up attacking the body’s cells and causing extreme, intense, acute-onset sensory issues, OCD-like symptoms and more. In this podcast, Amy and Evelyn discuss their 20+ years of experience with PANDAS in the context of their clinical work. They provide important insights for parents of children who are suffering, as well as for therapists who perform treatment protocols that could trigger physical or psychological responses in clients with PANDAS.  Note: PANDAS is somewhat controversial in the medical field, since the research is very new and there aren’t established diagnostic or treatment protocols. The information in this podcast is presented in light of how we have encountered it as clinicians. For more information, see the National Institute of Mental Health’s overview of PANDAS.

Join us as we delve into the good and bad of attachment items. How to determine what's "normal", unhealthy and how to help our children who may be struggling with forming or separating from attachment (or transitional) items. Finally, are they important to begin with? All this answered during the live. Please ask us your questions below. We'd love to continue the dialogue. :) Be sure to comment and share your thoughts! Feel free to follow us on instagram at:  www.instagram.com/handsonapproaches  Join our weekly room on Clubhouse for open Q and A in our club "Quiet the Noise": https://www.clubhouse.com/club/quietthenoise

Recorded live on April 26, 2020 Quoted from Tsippi Gross: "How did these two sisters with training in the world of finance completely pivot, build companies and charities around helping children and parents deal with anxiety and other issues? How did they create magic around their brand and become industry innovators? How did they become sought out around the globe in the world of occupational therapy? How do Amy and Evelyn do so much including work in their private practice, teach courses, consult, educate educators, and help so many while living a stress free life? How do they continue to come up with ideas and inspirations to do more? What is their secret? In today’s episode, neurodevelopment therapists Amy and Evelyn, founders of Hands on OT, Hands on Approaches, and the Hope Foundation, get real about the strategy to their success; the things that keep them grounded and flourishing, connected to each other and all they are accomplishing in this world. The secrets to success are always surprisingly simple and refreshingly fresh, and this episode is a great teacher and reminder."