Learn how gestalt-based approaches can transform feeding therapy for autistic children and their families.

Guest: Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP

Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD

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How can GLP-informed strategies support pediatric feeding therapy for autistic children? In this episode, Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC-SLP, interviews Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, host of the First Bite SLP podcast, to explore her work on pediatric feeding disorders in young autistic individuals. They discuss subtle, often overlooked signs of PFD, as well as medical factors that can impact feeding and swallowing. Together, they explore evidence-informed approaches to care, including how to incorporate linguistic and cognitive gestalts into therapy to support meaningful progress. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how GLP-informed strategies align with feeding therapy to better support autistic children and their families.

About the Guest: Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP works for Augusta County Public School as a full-time early intervention speech-language pathologist with the Infant and Toddler Connection of Augusta-Highland in Staunton, VA, and as an adjunct professor at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in Durham, NC. Additionally, she is the acclaimed host of “First Bite: Fed, Fun, Functional,” a weekly speech therapy podcast that addresses “all thangs” of pediatric speech therapy and is presented by Speech Therapy PD. Michelle authored Chasing the Swallow: Truth, Science, and Hope for Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Disorders.

Show Notes:

Feeding Matters

Feeding Matters PFD pdf

Gut: The Inside Story of Our Body's Most Underrated Organ

Talk to Me Technologies

SOS Approach to Feeding

Turn everyday play into powerful support for language and executive functioning.

Guest: Rachel Terrell, M.S., CCC-SLP

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In this episode of The Gestalt Get-Together, Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC-SLP, is joined by Rachel Terrell, M.S., CCC-SLP, CBIS, to explore the connection between gestalt language processing and executive functioning through play. Together, they discuss how to recognize different GLP play styles and what those preferences may reveal about underlying executive functioning challenges. The conversation highlights how play can offer valuable insight into regulation, flexibility, and organization.

About the Guest: Rachel Terrell, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and founder of Rooted and Rising Therapies and NeuroNook. Through Rooted and Rising Therapies, she specializes in working with autistic children and gestalt language processors, focusing on executive functioning, AAC, and unmasking. NeuroNook aims to break down silos between disciplines and equip clinicians for regulation-first care. Through mentorship, speaking engagements, and digital resources, Rachel encourages therapists to build collaborative teams, challenge outdated models, and create therapy spaces where children feel seen, respected, and truly understood.

Show Notes:

Honoring Diverse Styles of Play

What if hyperlexia is not a barrier, but a bridge to language?

Guest: Liz Watson, MS, CCC-SLP

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In this episode of The Gestalt Get-Together, host Corinne Zmoos, MS, CCC-SLP, sits down with Liz Watson, MS, CCC-SLP, to talk about hyperlexia through the lens of Gestalt Language Processing. They explore what hyperlexia really is, why many GLPs are drawn to what Liz calls “human codes” such as letters, numbers, and symbol systems, and how these interests can become powerful entry points into language.

About the Guest: Liz Watson, MS, CCC-SLP, is a lifelong school-based SLP with a passion for working with hyperlexic kids. She specializes in the preschool age group and loves AAC. She is also a writer for The Informed SLP. Liz lives in Maryland with her wife, son, and two tiny dogs.

Show Notes:

What do autistic children who are interested in letters and numbers do with them? A qualitative study