In this powerful episode, host Brian Keene welcomes Dr. Martine Laventure, a licensed
social worker, mother, and passionate advocate for autism and inclusion. Together, they
explore the complexities of navigating an autism diagnosis as a parent, the importance of
building a village, and how cultural understanding shapes access to care.
Dr. Martine shares her personal journey as a mother to an autistic child, how she uses her
lens as a clinician and parent, and offers encouraging, real-world advice for families trying
to find their footing. They also discuss disparities in autism care within Black and Brown
communities, the importance of culturally competent services, and how to avoid therapy
burnout.

Key Topics Discussed:
- Building your support system and treatment team
- Talking to your child and family about autism
- Understanding and honoring cultural differences
- Self-advocacy and caregiver empowerment
- When therapy becomes too much – recognizing the signs of burnout
- The need for culturally informed care and inclusive assessments
- Encouragement for teens, young adults, and parents to seek support

Guest Info:
Dr. Martine Laventure is a licensed social worker, school clinician, per diem therapist, and
founder of LaVenture Consulting. She offers training and consulting on autism, cultural
competence, and family empowerment. She’s also releasing a children’s book on autism!
Connect with Dr. Martine Laventure:
- Website: http://laventureconsultant.com
- Instagram: @laventure.csllc

Resources Mentioned:
- ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
- Philadelphia Expanded ACEs Study
- Autism education and caregiver advocacy

Love this episode? Share it with another parent or therapist who needs to hear it. Don’t
forget to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!
Connect with Us:
- Website: https://www.pureheartstherapy.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pureheartstherapy
- Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autismfamilyresource
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purehearts_therapy

Autism Family Resource Podcast Episode 45 (Sensory integration series Part 2)

Welcome Back!

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, we delve into the world of sensory needs and explore the often-misunderstood behaviors of mouthing and chewing in children. Join us as we welcome back occupational therapist Dipali Devani for the second episode of our Calming the Chaos Sensory series.

Dipali sheds light on the reasons behind these behaviors, how sensory needs influence these actions, and practical strategies to support your child.

Guest: Dipali Devani

Dipali Devani is a licensed occupational therapist specializing in sensory integration and a certified Ayurveda practitioner. She works with individuals of all ages to help them process sensory input, develop emotional regulation skills, and build independence in daily life. Her holistic approach blends modern therapy techniques with ancient wellness practices to promote overall well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• Mouthing & Chewing: Children may put non-food objects like clothing, toys, or even their own hands or arms in their mouths excessively. This can disrupt daily activities and may be accompanied by chewing or sucking on these objects.

• Sensory & Regulation: Mouthing and chewing often stem from a need for oral sensory stimulation and regulation, especially in children with autism or sensory processing disorder. These behaviors can be triggered by anxiety, boredom, or a lack of deep pressure input.

• Red Flags: Mouthing and chewing are typical in children under three. If these behaviors persist beyond age five, it's crucial to seek an evaluation from an occupational therapist (OT).

• Potential Impacts: Excessive mouthing and chewing can lead to difficulties with eating, social interaction, and overall health. This can include nutritional deficiencies, increased risk of infections, and social isolation.

• Strategies & Interventions: OTs can help identify triggers, develop sensory diets, and provide interventions such as chewable jewelry, weighted activities, and sensory breaks.

• Home Strategies: Parents can incorporate strategies like blowing bubbles, using an electric toothbrush, engaging in animal walks, and creating a safe corner with sensory toys.

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Autism Family Resource Podcast Episode 44

Episode Title: Embracing the Autism Voyage: Parenting, Life Planning, and Entrepreneurship with Michael Pereira

Welcome Back!

Parenting a neurodivergent child is a journey filled with unique challenges, unexpected turns, and moments of profound growth. In this episode, we embark on an insightful conversation with Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage, as he shares his personal parenting experiences, practical daily living strategies, and financial planning insights for families with special needs.

We'll also explore how entrepreneurship can offer parents greater flexibility, allowing them to create a lifestyle that supports both their family's well-being and their professional aspirations.

Guest: Michael Pereira

Michael Pereira is a father, autism advocate, and founder of The Autism Voyage, a blog and newsletter dedicated to supporting families on their autism journey. With expertise in financial and insurance planning, he provides guidance on life insurance, disability income insurance, and long-term financial security for families raising children with autism.

Key Takeaways:

• The Autism Voyage Blog and Newsletter: In both the The Autism Voyage blog and the newsletter, Michael offers practical guidance tailored for special needs families with topics in three key areas—Daily Living, Life Planning, and Entrepreneurship.

• Daily Living Strategies: Learn effective approaches for managing everyday challenges, from sensory-friendly haircuts to preparing for new experiences like swimming lessons.

• Financial & Life Planning: Understand why life insurance, disability income insurance, and long-term care planning are crucial for securing your child's future.

• Entrepreneurship & Flexibility: Discover ways Entrepreneurship can provide the freedom and flexibility to balance work and family life while being present for your child.

• Building a Supportive Community: Learn how The Autism Voyage is creating a network of support for families navigating similar challenges.

Resources:

• My Autism Voyage Website

• The Autism Voyage Blog

• Michael Pereira on LinkedIn

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Visit our Website:

www.pureheartstherapy.com

Follow Us:

Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy