Kelly Mahler

In this engaging discussion, Kelly Mahler, an occupational therapist and interoception expert, shares her insights from over 20 years of working with children. She explains interoception, the 'eighth sense,' and its crucial role in helping kids regulate their emotions and behaviors. Listeners learn how parents can use play to bolster children’s awareness of body signals and explore why some kids struggle with this connection. Kelly provides practical strategies for everyday interactions, advocating for a gentle approach that fosters understanding and emotional growth.

Join Kelly Mahler, an experienced occupational therapist and a pioneer in interoception research, as she delves into the fascinating eighth sense that helps us recognize internal body signals like hunger and pain. Discover how interoception significantly influences emotional regulation, especially in children with autism. Kelly shares insights into innovative school-based programs designed to enhance interoceptive awareness, offering promising results in emotional management. With strategies for therapists and the importance of personalized approaches, this conversation is a must for those in the field.

Join Kelly Mahler, a pediatric occupational therapist and author, as she dives deep into interoception's impact on autism and mental health. She shares how interoception plays a crucial role in self-regulation and emotional awareness, especially for individuals on the autism spectrum. Kelly explores common misdiagnoses linked to interoceptive difficulties and emphasizes the importance of mindful practices in understanding one's body sensations. Her insights shed light on fostering better emotional health through enhanced awareness and curiosity.