91. Nervous System Safety in Concussion/TBI Recovery (with Shelley Latendresse)
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In this episode…
After a brain injury, survivors often feel overwhelmed and on edge - one of the reasons for this could be nervous system dysregulation. Today, we are going to talk about nervous system safety and how to incorporate this into our recovery.
In this episode, Cristabelle Braden interviews occupational therapist Shelley Latendresse about the importance of understanding nervous system safety. Shelley shares her personal journey with brain injuries and how it shaped her approach to therapy. They discuss the complexities of the autonomic nervous system, the misdiagnosis of symptoms, and practical steps for creating safety in one's environment and body. It’s important to understand that feeling unsafe can hinder rehabilitation, but self-awareness and self-compassion can go a long way. The journey isn’t always linear, but you are not alone, and there are simple steps you can take today towards nervous system safety.
Meet Our Guest
Shelley is a registered Occupational Therapist from Tsawwassen BC, Canada. She loves hiking, cycling and all things outdoors. Her professional background is in all things neuro, from neurodevelopment to brain injury with specialty training in TBI/Concussion and sensory and reflex integration. Shelley is also a practicing certified yoga instructor with a focus on nervous system management and injury recovery. Shelley is a lifetime member of Concussion Nerds program which dives deep into concussion assessment and treatment and keeps concussion clinicians up to date on best practices.
Shelley has in the past had her own OT clinic, but now works in community settings; equestrian/farm, yoga, sports and more. She loves the versatility of seeing clients in real life, helping them reintegrate into activities they love. She also now coaches ONLINE and runs a with a THREE month signature online Post Concussion Recovery Program which includes Yoga as a recovery practice.
Last but definitely not least, Shelley has walked the persistent concussion path herself; dealing with a history of impaired systems and repeat concussions after a ski crash in 2017. The lack of proper concussion education, empowering treatment and comprehensive care is what prompted her to focus on now serving this population.
This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.
