Episode 32: Understanding Sensory Processing and the Power of Neuroplasticity

In this episode of the Autism Learning Lab Podcast, host Chris Blankenship sits down with occupational therapist and Mountain Valley Treatment Center Executive Director Zachary Schafer to discuss sensory processing challenges in adolescents. Together, they explore the remarkable power of neuroplasticity and explain why it's never too late to support meaningful change. Zachary challenges the common belief that sensory development is fixed after early childhood, offering hope, practical insights, and encouragement to families and individuals navigating sensory sensitivities.

Links:

Autism Learning Lab: https://www.autismlearninglab.com/

Email: [email protected]

Fear Less Podcast: https://mountainvalleytreatment.org/resources/podcast/

Mountain Valley Treatment Center: https://mountainvalleytreatment.org/

Quotes:

[1:30-1:38] Zachary  “Did you know that we could actually maybe change the way that they process sensory information and that this might not be a fixed challenge?”

[6:20-6:22] Zachary “Before you can do any of this, you have to educate.”

[11:03 - 11:07] Zachary “Your sensory processing capacity is something that's a  lifelong experience.”