In this episode of Brainstorms, host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is joined by Julie A. Fechter, MS, CCC-SLP, to explore dysautonomia, an often overlooked but highly impactful factor in neuro rehabilitation. Autonomic dysfunction can quietly influence attention, fatigue, communication tolerance, swallowing safety, and overall engagement, showing up in therapy sessions in ways that are easy to miss or misinterpret.
This conversation is especially relevant for clinicians working with adults following stroke, TBI, long COVID, and other neurologic conditions. Renee and Julie walk through common red flags, practical assessment considerations, and therapy modifications that help protect energy and support carryover. If you have ever questioned why a patient’s alertness, vitals, or cognitive endurance feel inconsistent from session to session, this episode offers a clearer framework for understanding what may be happening and how to adapt your clinical approach with greater confidence.
This conversation is especially relevant for clinicians working with adults following stroke, TBI, long COVID, and other neurologic conditions. Renee and Julie walk through common red flags, practical assessment considerations, and therapy modifications that help protect energy and support carryover. If you have ever questioned why a patient’s alertness, vitals, or cognitive endurance feel inconsistent from session to session, this episode offers a clearer framework for understanding what may be happening and how to adapt your clinical approach with greater confidence.
