Unveiling the Interaction between the Second Brain, Epigenetics, and Sensory Processing of Autistic Children

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Handouts/Brochure

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Varleisha Lyons, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, ASDCS Related seminars and products

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Varleisha D. Lyons (formerly Gibbs), PhD, OTD, OTR/L, ASDCS, is an occupational therapist and author with over 20 years of experience working with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory processing disorders and neurological disorders. She developed and founded Delaware’s first occupational therapy program and became the first black indigenous American woman to serve as the Scientific Programs Officer at the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. 

Varleisha continues to lecture and provides training on sensory processing strategies and self-regulation to practitioners, parents, and teachers throughout the country and internationally. As co-author of Raising Kids with Sensory Processing Disorders, she has provided families with strategies to understand and care for their children. Dr. Lyons is the developer of the Self-Regulation and Mindfulness program and author of the best-selling book, Self-Regulation and Mindfulness: Exercises and Worksheets for Sensory Processing Disorder, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (PESI Publishing & Media). She is the co-author of Trauma Treatment in ACTION: Over 85 Activities to Move Clients Toward Healing, Growth and Improved Functioning (PESI Publishing & Media). Her areas of expertise include neuroanatomy, self-regulation strategies across the lifespan, health inequities, and trauma responsive approaches.

Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this presentation belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author's employer, organization, committee or other group or individual. Varleisha D. Lyons PhD, OTR/L is employed by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). This work is independent of her role and not affiliated with AOTA, Inc.

 

Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Dr. Varleisha Lyons maintains a private practice and is the founder and CEO of Wasut Sanctuary & Education, LLC. She receives royalties as a published author. Dr. Lyons receives a speaking honorarium, recording and book royalties from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Dr. Varleisha Lyons is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and the National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus. She serves as a board member of the National Association for Hearing and Speech Action.

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Objectives

1. Evaluate the neurology of the second brain, known as the enteric nervous system, and the various senses including interoception for treating autistic clients. 
2. Utilize the latest research on epigenetics to inform autism treatment.
3. Investigate environment impacts the gut ecosystem and the impact on sensory processing.  
4. Determine how self-regulation, and mindfulness, strategies and can improve brain-gut crosstalk and overall function.

Outline

Introduction to the Second Brain and Connection to Autism 

Research on the enteric nervous system 

Understanding the Brain-Gut connection and behavioral presentations 

Current evidence-based practices 

Connection to epigenetics; how behavior is passed to offspring 

Self-Regulation & Mindfulness program and ACTION from Trauma Approach: 

• Assessment Tools 
  • Screen areas of strength and areas revealing potential for growth  
  • Assess interoception and other areas of sensory processing  
  • Investigate epigenetics and familial influences  
  • Contextual Sensory Intervention (CSI); Investigating the environment  
• Treatment Planning  
  • Address interoception through sensory based and mindfulness activities 
  • Make a safe-space through modifying the environment and context to identify opportunities to improve upon self-regulation   
  • Daily schedules and methods to organize interventions  
  • Sensorimotor strategies to address the individual needs of children and families: Case examples 

Limitations of Research and Potential Risk 

Target Audience

• Addiction Counselors
• Counselors
• Marriage & Family Therapists
• Nurses
• Occupational Therapists
• Physicians
• Psychologists
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Social Workers
• Teachers/School-Based Personnel
• Other Mental Health Professionals