In this episode of The Pause That Connects, we explore the world of Gestalt Language Processing (GLP)—a way some individuals naturally acquire language through meaningful chunks, scripts, and echolalia. We walk through the stages of gestalt language development and how to identify and support GLP in everyday life.

You’ll hear about what to look for in a GLP-informed provider and why collaboration between speech therapists, behavior analysts, and caregivers is essential. We also discuss neurodiversity-affirming practices and how to advocate for approaches that honor each person’s unique way of communicating.

Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator, this episode offers grounded insight, compassionate guidance, and a reminder that honoring how someone communicates is the first step in building a real connection.

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Follow for More

To learn more about Gestalt Language Processing and neurodiversity-affirming support, be sure to follow:

• Rachel Terrell, SLP on Instagram: @rachelterrellslp
• Her practice, Rooted Therapies Texas: @rootedtherapiestx

You can also explore additional resources, courses, and support tools at meaningfulspeech.com—a trusted source for GLP education and training.

Disclaimer

The content of this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for personalized medical, therapeutic, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified provider for guidance specific to your needs or the needs of your child.

In this powerful and heart-centered conversation, therapist Candice Fraser LPC joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of mental health and how we can make it more accessible, inclusive, and supportive—especially for families.

We explore the importance of accessibility in mental health care and Candice's innovative approaches to therapy that meet clients where they are. She dives into the complexities of parent-child dynamics and how to recognize when therapy might be the right next step.

From tips on choosing the right therapist to the importance of community support for parents, Candice shares practical insights rooted in empathy and lived experience. She also speaks to building a strong foundation for families and the value of collaborative care in mental health.

We close with an uplifting conversation on the role of community and friendship in healing, leaving listeners with a renewed sense of connection and possibility.

Connect with Candice Fraser:

• Website: candicefraserlpc.com
• Instagram: @candicefraserlpc
• Podcast: The Couch Next Door with Candice Fraser

Follow us on Instagram @thepausethatconnects and don't forget to subscribe!

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Disclaimer:
This episode is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individualized medical, behavioral, or mental health advice. Always consult with a qualified provider regarding your unique situation.

In this episode, we sit down to pause and listen to Nicole Santiago, M.Ed., educator and founder of Family Addventures (@familyaddventures), as she shares her insight and lived experience navigating the world of special education. From decoding ARD meetings, IEPs, and 504 plans to advocating for strength-based, collaborative approaches, Nicole offers practical guidance for parents and caregivers at every stage of the journey. Her calm, informed voice reminds us that understanding your child’s rights and knowing how to communicate with schools can truly change the trajectory of a student’s educational path.

Nicole emphasizes the importance of building strong, respectful partnerships between families and schools, and highlights how empowering parents with resources and support can make a world of difference. Whether you're preparing for your first ARD meeting or seeking better communication strategies with educators, this episode covers key moments like transitioning between educational stages and viewing the child as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or set of challenges.

For families looking to dive deeper, we recommend exploring organizations such as The Arc (thearc.org) and COPAA (copaa.org) for up-to-date guidance on special education rights, advocacy training, and legal protections. You can also learn more from Nicole’s work at familyaddventures.com, where she provides support, tools, and workshops for navigating school systems with confidence and care.