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In this episode of The Pause That Connects podcast, Crystal Herrington opens up about her meaningful journey into financial planning, with a special focus on supporting families who have loved ones with special needs. She shares insights into the emotional and practical aspects of this path, including the often-overlooked grieving process families may experience. Crystal explains the differences between tools like special needs trusts and ABLE accounts, helping to demystify financial planning in a space that can feel overwhelming. Her approach is rooted in empathy, education, and empowerment.

Crystal emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community and reminds families that they are not alone—there are resources and professionals ready to help. To explore some of the tools she mentions, check out the ABLE account comparison tool, this helpful resource on government benefits, or find a qualified attorney through the Special Needs Alliance. You can connect directly with Crystal via email at crystal.c.herrington@nm.com, through her website at Northwestern Mutual, or on Instagram at @crystalherringtonnm.

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Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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In this inspiring conversation, LeeAnna shares the heartfelt journey behind starting Sensory Style, a company dedicated to creating supportive and empowering environments for families. With a deep understanding of family dynamics and the challenges many face, she highlights the importance of intentional planning and collaboration with other professionals to design spaces that truly meet each family’s unique needs. Her approach goes beyond aesthetics—it's about building environments that foster independence, boost engagement, and promote a sense of calm and belonging.

LeeAnna also dives into the vital role mental health and community play in the process, offering thoughtful organizational strategies and encouraging families every step of the way. Her passion for making a difference shines through in every aspect of her work. Want to learn more or connect with LeeAnna? You can find her on Instagram at @sensorystylecompany, visit her website at www.sensorystylecompany.com, or reach out via email at sensorystyleco@gmail.com.

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Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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In this inspiring conversation, Neta shares her incredible journey to becoming a devoted practitioner, working alongside her business partner Hagit to support children and families through emotional regulation and the wisdom of the Chinese five elements. She speaks passionately about the importance of creating inclusive tools for children and the need to understand emotional dynamics in both kids and adults. Together, Neta and Hagit are committed to meeting each child with compassion and care, creating a supportive space for growth and connection.

The conversation also explores essential topics like sensory processing, ADHD, and the transformative role of art and storytelling in helping children and parents thrive. Neta emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches in parenting and highlights how vital self-care is for caregivers. Her insights, combined with Hagit's collaboration, offer a heartfelt and refreshing perspective that encourages empathy, creativity, and holistic family support.

You can find Mistake and Friends online at www.mistakeandfriends.com, on Instagram @mistakeandfriends, on YouTube at @mistakeandfriends, and on Etsy at their shop https://www.etsy.com/shop/MistakeAndFriends?msockid=122ebe85bb9166180735a8adbafb673f.

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Let's stay connected!

Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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In this heartfelt and powerful episode of The Pause That Connects, Cindy invites us into her deeply personal journey as a parent raising a neurodivergent child. From the earliest signs to the diagnosis, she shares the emotional highs and lows of navigating an often overwhelming system—and why early intervention made all the difference.

Cindy opens up about the tough conversations, the moments of self-doubt, and the strength she found in building a strong support network. She talks candidly about advocating for her son in schools, finding communication strategies that work, and the complex dynamics of sharing a diagnosis within a family that may not always understand.

As her son prepares to step into high school, Cindy reflects on the transitions, growth, and quiet triumphs that mark their journey. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, resilience, and community when raising a neurodivergent child.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone seeking to better understand autism, this episode is a must-listen for its raw honesty, practical insights, and ultimately hopeful message.

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Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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In this gentle and reflective mini episode, we explore the quiet power of simply being present. Instead of reaching for questions or solutions, what happens when we choose stillness—especially when supporting someone who’s overwhelmed, neurodivergent, or just not ready to engage? Drawing from personal experience and professional insight, this episode offers a thoughtful look at why silence isn’t a lack of care, but often a deeper, more respectful form of connection.

You’ll hear practical ideas for creating supportive, low-pressure spaces—whether you're with a client, a child, or someone you care about. With a calming tone and an invitation to slow down, this episode is a gentle reminder that sometimes, doing less is actually doing more.

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Let's stay connected!

Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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What really happens when autistic individuals become adults? In this episode of The Pause That Connects, Amber discusses the often invisible journey of autistic people after they age out of school-based support systems. Many families don't discover critical services — like Medicaid waivers — until it's almost too late. One parent shared, "We got on the waitlist 4 years ago and I got a call today that I have about 16 more years left." It's not just about long waits — it's also about the lack of providers once the support is finally approved.

We talk about:

• The steep drop-off in services after high school
• Waiver waitlists that can last over a decade
• Employment barriers, with up to 85% of autistic adults unemployed (https://autismsociety.org/employment/)
• The long-term effects of social isolation and segregation
• Why schools must better integrate neurotypical and neurodivergent students
• How systems often fail autistic adults — but how hope, advocacy, and connection can lead the way forward

This is a candid, compassionate conversation meant to illuminate what so many families and autistic individuals experience — and what needs to change.

Resources & Support:

• The Arc of Texas – Advocacy & support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  https://www.thearcoftexas.org
• Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) – Waiver programs, Medicaid, and IDD services
  https://www.hhs.texas.gov
• Disability Rights Texas – Legal advocacy for Texans with disabilities
  https://www.disabilityrightstx.org

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Let's stay connected!

Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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In this episode of The Pause That Connects, we’re joined by physical therapist Dr. Jenny Johnson and Rebekah Dilks, PTA for a powerful conversation about the unique role physical therapy can play in supporting neurodivergent individuals. We explore how PT can address both motor development and underlying regulation needs, and discuss when it might be the right time to seek services for your child.

Jenny and Rebekah also reflect on their personal journeys into the field, share how they collaborate with other professionals, and emphasize the importance of asking why—not just what. If you’re a parent, educator, or therapist working with neurodivergent learners, this episode is full of insight into how PT can become a collaborative, strengths-based part of the team.

Connect with our guests:
• Rebekah Dilks – rdilks@strivehs.com
• Jenny Johnson – www.thegymlady.com

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Let's stay connected!

Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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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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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.

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Let's stay connected!

Follow us on Instagram: @thepausethatconnects & @shinebehaviorconsulting

Live in TX and looking for support? Reach out today at www.shinebehaviorconsulting.com

Disclaimer:

The conversations on The Pause That Connects are for informational and discussion purposes only. It is not intended as medical, therapeutic, or behavioral advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.