FASD Informed

Welcome to the 17th episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed.  This episode is titled "Disability Rights North Carolina". Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Lisa Nesbitt, Senior Attorney with Disability Rights North Carolina. Disability Rights is a legal advocacy agency that fights for the rights of people with disabilities in North Carolina. This episode includes the following topics:-  Lisa's background, her law education and what sparked her work in being an advocate for individuals with disabilities.-  Explaining Disability Rights North Carolina and how DRNC serves the North Carolina community.-  When Lisa first learned about FASD through Disability Rights.-  The biggest hurdles and the rights that are not being met for children / teens / adults with both an Intellectual Developmental Disability (IDD) AND Mental Illness (MI), including those diagnosed with an FASD.-  Advice for parents / caregivers / loved ones of those with IDD/MI and other disabilities, who are fighting for services and supports. Resources-Disability Rights North Carolinahttps://disabilityrightsnc.org/ Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informedhttps://www.ncfasdinformed.org 

Welcome to the sixteenth episode of "FASD Informed", produced and sponsored by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. Today's episode is titled "Connection is Essential" and Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Nate Sheets of "Cognitive Supports" in Oregon. Nate is an international behavior consultant and trainer. In this key episode, Nate shares the following:-  How FASD Training has grown and his perspective on the movements in FASD trainings, especially in recent years.-  Key points that Nate truly wants people to understand about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.-  Advice and tips for parents,  who may face resistance from school and from other professionals. -  Advice for parents of children / teens / adults who have an new FASD diagnosis.-  Key points and concepts for parents, caregivers and educators to remember and implement when working with those with an FASD. Resources from this episode: -  Nate Sheetshttps://www.cognitivesupports.com Book mentioned-"Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges" by Mona Delahooke, Ph.D, PESI Publishing (2019) Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchione-natalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informed-https://ncfasdinformed.org   

Welcome to the fifteenth episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed.  This episode is titled "Out of the Darkness" and Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchione interviews Delaney Kay, an adult recently diagnosed with an FASD. Delaney is a mother of grown children, a personal coach and and has her own You Tube Channel. Delaney was recently diagnosed with an FASD after a lifetime of experiencing  significant neurological difficulties...and this recent diagnosis of an FASD was a major piece in putting her life back together.In this meaningful episode, topics discussed include:-  Delaney's journey with having significant, neurological difficulties and what led her to seeking a diagnosis for an FASD.- How having an official diagnosis, as an adult, has changed her life.-  The AMAZING accommodations that Delaney created for herself, even before she know she had an FASD (and the significant difference that these accommodations helped in her daily activities).- How Delaney has been able to BUILD ON HER STRENGTHS throughout her lifetime.- Her hope for the future, especially knowing her FASD diagnosis  and understanding how it impacts her.-  Her encouragement and advice to other adults, who may be struggling and may suspect they have an FASD. Resources-Delaney Kaydelaney@daylightoutofdarkness.com Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informedhttps://www.ncfasdinformed.org   

Welcome to the 14th episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed.  This episode is titled "Let's Talk Legislation". Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Sara Messelt, Executive Director of Proof Alliance (formerly MOFAS).  This "Call to Action" Episode includes the following topics:-  The background and growth of Proof Alliance and how it serves and advocates for the FASD Community.-  The exciting, new FASD legislation that is happening in Minnesota and what this legislation both requires and represents.-  Why this new legislation is SO important for children and foster care parents.-  The mission and vision of Proof Alliance (and how it has become a driving force of change in the FASD Community).-  Upcoming initiatives and events for Proof Alliance.-  Advice and encouragement for FASD advocates in the United States (and around the world) , who are hoping to start legislative efforts and assist individuals with FASD (and their families and caregivers). Resources- Proof Alliancehttps://www.prrofalliance.org/ Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informedhttps://www.ncfasdinformed.org   

Welcome to the 13th episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "A Voice To Be Heard- A Bio Mom's FASD Journey". Podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Melissa Moore. Melissa is a biological mom of a child with an FASD. Melissa is also a mama of four and raising her family with her number one supporter and love- her spouse. Melissa's passions are keeping active and being outdoors. Her other priorities include quality time with her family, family game night and family movie night. Melissa is a fierce advocate in the FASD and Mental Health communities. Melissa works as an Educational Assistant by day and active mom of 4 kids by night....and she loves helping others to understand their worth and importance in life. This candid and important episode includes:-  Melissa's journey and her pregnancy story.-  When Melissa began to become aware of the symptoms that were a result of her drinking in  the first weeks her pregnancy (when she didn't realize she was actually pregnant).-  The steps and action she took in supporting her child's needs, once she learned that her child had an FASD.-  The stigma that she faced of a biological mom of a child with an FASD.-  What made Melissa decide to be an advocate in the FASD community.-  Her message to other biological moms who may suspect their child may have an FASD and to ALL parents of children / teens / adults with and FASD. Resources-Melissa Moore on Instagram @ms.melissajan Podcast HostNatalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informedhttps://ncfasdinformed.org/ 

"Tips from a Tutor"Welcome to the 12th episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "Tips from a Tutor- An Interview with Jennifer Donaldson". Podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Jennifer Donaldson, owner of the private, tutoring business, Tailor Joy Tutoring.Jennifer is a teacher, tutor, curriculum writer and the mom of two grown children.  Jennifer has taught in both Virginia and North Carolina.  Her favorite part of teaching and tutoring is when she can "see the light come on" for students as they grin with confidence, and her favorite students are the ones that she has to try hardest to find that "light switch".Topics covered in this episode include:-  Jennifer's experience learning about FASD and working with students with FASD and other brain-based diagnoses.-  How brain-based symptoms may look like "behaviors" and why it is SO important for parents, teachers and administrators to understand that MAKING ACCOMMODATIONS will better address these symptoms.-  Which teaching / tutoring strategies are most helpful in working with students with FASD and other brain-based diagnoses?-  Identifying "out of the box" strategies and "real life" learning experiences that parents, teachers and tutors can use to reinforce learning.-Tips for parents, particularly during these changing times, who are schooling at home or parent-led homeschooling. Resources-Jennifer Donaldson, Owner of Tailor Joy Tutoringhttp://tutoring.tailorjoy.com or https://tailorjoy.wordpress,com/ Podcast Host- Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informedhttps://ncfasdinformed.org  

Welcome to the 11th episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "Self Care for Caregivers? (Yes, Please!). Podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Cami Nichols of "My Kiddos Advocate". Cami is the mom of two kids, ages 13 and 15, both of whom with diverse abilities, whom grew in Cami's heart and not in her belly. Cami's daughter, who joined their family through adoption, was diagnosed with an FASD at the age of 9. Cami's son also lives with ADHD and ODD. Both of Cami's children have experienced trauma in different ways. Cami currently works at Chehalis Community School on the S'tailles Aborignal Land Reserve and volunteers as a Resource Parent for the Family Support Institute in British Columbia. Cami started "My Kiddos Advocate" (on Instagram and Facebook) about a year ago, as a way to spread awareness and support other caregivers who have similar experiences. Topics included in this episode:-  Cami's journey in becoming a mom (and learning about FASD prior to becoming a mom) and how Cami is involved in the FASD Community as a support and advocate.-  Why are caregivers, of those individuals with an FASD, at a higher risk for burnout and added stressors (and defining those added stressors)?-  What obstacles do caregivers, of individuals with an FASD, face in trying to practice self-care? -  Everyday examples of self-care- Different breathing techniques to aid in relaxation and focus- The importance of connection, sleep and breathing! Resources-Cami Nichols on Instagram and Facebook as @mykiddosadvocateCami Nichols- mykiddosadvocate@gmail.com Podcast Host- Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informed-https://ncfasdinformed.org    

Welcome to the tenth episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This interview is titled "FASD, Skilled Trades and Work Experiences". Podcast Host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Cindy LaJoy, who is the founder of Blue Collar Homeschool. Cindy and her husband live in Colorado with their five young adult children, all of whom were adopted from orphanages in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Three of her children have a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Cindy has homeschooled all five of her children for the past eleven years. Passionate about those who need other avenues in life to achieve success in adulthood, Cindy created "Blue Collar Homeschool", which is an 8,000 member Facebook group and website where homeschool families can find encouragement for learners who are not headed down the traditional college path.  As a part of their journey, Cindy led her children through an exciting, year long adventure of creating "Buckaroos Slices and Scoops", a pizza and ice cream restaurant they developed and built by themselves, and which her young adult children run autonomously, with occasional mentoring from mom and dad. Topics included in this episode include:-  Cindy and her husband's journey in building their family through international adoption, learning about FASD and their decision to homeschool their children.-  What led Cindy to create "Blue Collar Homeschool".-  Why skilled trades / creative arts / work experiences are SO important to our kids/teens/young adults with an FASD (or other brain based diagnoses).- How parents need to create opportunities, mentor their children and focus on what CAN be done (not what can't) for the future.- Ways to help kids/teens/adults with an FASD learn their passion or gifts by paying attention to their interests, exposing them to a variety of "real life work experiences".-  Why it is SO vital for any expectations to be developmentally appropriate...and the importance of brain based parenting.- Shifting the mindset to think about SKILLS and RELATIONSHIP FIRST. Resources-Cindy LaJoy, Blue Collar Homeschool (group on Facebook)https://bluecollarhomeschool.comcyndilj@aol.com Buckaroos Slices and Scoops Restaurant-https://buckaroosmontrose.com Podcast Host- Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org NCFASD Informed-https://ncfasdinformed.org   

Welcome to the ninth episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "Sibling Relationships and FASD". Podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Michelle Catania, who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Michelle and her husband live in Connecticut with their three children.  Her youngest son joined their family through domestic adoption and he has taught them so much about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Michelle was a preschool teacher for over 15 years and she now has a small private practice, that allows her to use both life experiences as well as education to support her family and other families in her community. Topics covered in this episode include: -  Michelle and her family's journey, learning about FASD and becoming informed about FASD and the Neurobehavioral Approach. -  How the changes and challenges that accompany parenting a child with an FASD can teach valuable life lessons....even in the midst of chaos! Chaos is often part of the family enviornment....and that's OK! -  The importance of giving siblings (of those with an FASD) an opportunity to "hear their hard", having time for them to "tap out" and "emptying their resentment bag". - The importance and value of the Neurobehavioral Approach in Parenting a Child with an FASD or other Brain-Based Diagnosis. -  Her lessons learned about her family's faith, sense of humor and remembering the "moments of aweseomeness". -  Her advice and feedback for siblings of children with an FASD (and for parents, too!). Resources- Michelle Catania, LMFTwww.michellecatanialmft.com FASCETS (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Consultation, Education and Training Services)https://fascets.org "Trying Differently Rather Than Harder" by Diane Malbin NCFASD Informed-https://ncfasdinformed.org Podcast Host- Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org       

Welcome to the eighth episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "Accommodations are AWESOME". Podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Wendy Brown, who is a certified trainer of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model. FASCETS stands for "Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Consultation, Education and Training Services". Wendy enjoys helping caregivers and community partners to learn differently when working with those challenged by FASD or other neurobehavioral diagnoses. Wendy previously worked for Eastern Washington University through the Family Resource and Training Center as a mentor to foster families in Southwest Idaho. Wendy and her husband have parented over 80 children through foster care and adoption, most of whom have been neurodevelopmentally challenged.  Now settled in a small, east-coast town....Wendy and her family continue to enjoy homeschooling, their RV adventures and working in their family garden.Topics discussed in this AWESOME episode include:-  Wendy and her husband's story of becoming parents, becoming foster parents, and building their family through adoption.-  Wendy's experiences learning about FASD, when she began her journey as a foster mom and her mission to become a foster mom educator, FASCETS Certified Trainer and FASD Advocate.-  An Introduction to FASCETS.-  What are accommodations and why are they SO important in parenting / caregiving or working with a child / teen / adult with an FASD (or other Neurobehavioral Diagnoses)?-  Breaking down accommodations: how to start learning about accommodations and the purpose of making accommodations.- How parents and caregivers may already be making accommodations....and not even realize it!-  The importance of objectivity, compromise and letting go of the emotions involved in "expectations".-  The importance of being intentional, listening to your child and meeting your child where they are in a developmental sense.-  How accommodations can be FUN (and examples of fun accommodations)!-  Taking the next steps in learning more about how to make accommodations and the Neurobehavioral Model in working with FASD and other brain based diagnoses. Resources-Wendy Brown, FASCETS Trainer  fasdwow@gmail.comFASCETS (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Consultation, Education and Training Services) https://fascets.org/"Trying Differently Rather Than Harder" by Diane MalbinNCFASD Informed-https://ncfasdinformed.org/ Podcast Host: Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org    

Welcome to the seventh episode of "FASD Informed", sponsored and produced by the North Carolina nonprofit organization, NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "An Introduction to the Brain Based Approach". Podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews Adrienne Bashista, who is the co-founder and training director of FAFASD, Families Affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Adrienne received her FASD training from Diane Malbin, author of the book "Trying Differently Rather Than Harder" and founder of FASCETS. Adrienne spends part of her time educating people about FASD and part of her time running her small flower farm and floral design studio. She has a BA from Bates College, an MSLS from UNC- Chapel Hill and worked as a teacher and as a school librarian for many years. Adrienne's younger son has an FASD and Adrienne lives in Western Massachusetts with her family.FAFASD provides training to parents and professionals in the Brain Based Approach with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and other Neurobehavioral Diagnoses. Topics covered in today's episode include:-  The journey of Adrienne's family, the road that led to her son's FASD diagnosis and how Adrienne first learned about the Brain Based Approach with FASD.-  What led Adrienne to going from a parent of a child with an FASD to becoming an advocate and educator in the FASD Community.-  The importance of understanding that FASD is a Developmental Disability and Developmental Age versus Chronological Age.-  Shifting from "trying to fix" an individual with an FASD to "accommodating and supporting" an individual with an FASD.-  What is the Brain Based Approach in working with individuals with an FASD?-  What are primary characteristics of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders? -  What role do primary characteristics play in the Brain Based Approach in working with individuals with an FASD or other Neurobehavioral Diagnoses.- The importance of "Understand and Accommodate" versus "Correct and Fix". Resources-Families Affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FAFASD) fafasd.orgAdrienne Bashista, Co-Founder and Training DirectorFAFASD is also on Facebook as F.A.F.A.S.D "Shifting the paradigm: towards a neuro-behavioral approach to FASD" Facebook Group"Trying Differently Rather Than Harder" by Diane MalbinFASCETS (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Consultation, Education and Training Services)fascets.orgNCFASD Informed-ncfasdinformed.orgPodcast Host: Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org       

Welcome to the sixth episode of “FASD Informed”, sponsored and produced by the nonprofit NCFASD Informed. This episode is titled "Not Alone". FASD Informed podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews two guests in this episode- Andrew Bremser and Nick Vecchione. Andrew Bremser served as a Scout Sniper section-leader in the United States Marine Corps. After three deployments in five years, Andrew transitioned into civilian life where he earned his BS in Psychology from Coastal Carolina University in 2017 and his MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology in 2019.Nick Vecchione, who is Natalie’s son, recently graduated from homeschooling and he continues to study his trade as an apprentice in woodworking and carpentry. Nick is an aspiring, young woodworker/carpenter who lives with an FASD. Andrew became Nick’s first carpentry & woodworking apprenticeship teacher in 2018 and he quickly learned about working with individuals an FASD and the prevalence of FASD in the US. Andrew became inspired to serve as a board member on NCFASD Informed. In this episode, we have a candid conversation, including the following topics:-  How the Bremser and Vecchione families met, and how Andrew and Nick’s unique journeys allowed them to form an instant connection.- The importance of trust and building connections when working with individuals with brain based diagnoses. -   The importance of breaking down directions and recognizing when a method of instruction is not working. and how “The burden of connection lies on the teacher.”- Why woodworking and carpentry are a good fit for individuals with an FASD or other brain based diagnoses. - Nick’s advice and hope for teens / young adults living with an FASD or other brain based diagnoses. Resources-Andrew can be reached at:joshshopefoundation.org NCFASD Informed-ncfasdinformed.org Podcast Host- Natalie Vecchionenatalie.vecchione@ncfasdinformed.org

Welcome to the fifth episode of FASD Informed, sponsored and produced by the nonprofit NCFASD Informed! This episode is titled "Two Moms Talking". FASD Informed podcast host, Natalie Vecchione, interviews FASD Advocate and Foster Mom, Aubrey Page.  Aubrey has been a treatment-level foster parent for 3 years and noticed many of her kids had similar symptoms that were not exactly trauma. As one of her children got diagnosed with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, her eyes were open to the prevalence of this disability. When she requested a trainer come to Cincinnati to spread the word, she found that the need for training and support was expansive. After months of training from world-leaders in the FASD community, she started training and advocating to anyone and everyone who would listen. To date, she has trained over 600 people about the most common form of developmental disabilities in America.Topics covered in this episode include:-  Why FASD training should be in all pre-placement foster family training classes? -  "Behaviors are just symptoms that don’t have the proper accommodations."-   Why schools / universities need to teach about FASD to social service / criminal justice majors (and other     professions)?-  The shift in parenting when focusing on brain differences and brain-based approaches needs to go jointly with trauma based, parenting approaches. -  Thinking about accommodating your lifestyle when parenting a child / teen / young adult with an FASD. -  What led Aubrey and husband to begin homeschooling her kids. Aubrey can be reached at: https://www.aubreypage.org/  as well as her Facebook Group  "At Wit's End with Aubrey Page". Look for Aubrey on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter @aubreypagefasd. Aubrey can be also reached at info@aubreypage.org  

Welcome to the fourth episode of FASD Informed! Today's show is titled "FASD Call to Action for Social Work and Legal Professionals- An Interview with Sontina Barnes."FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, a brain based, whole body disorder with behavioral symptoms. FASD Diagnoses are a result of prenatal exposure to alcohol The disabilities caused by such exposure fall under the umbrella of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.FASD Informed is a podcast series sponsored and produced by NCFASD Informed. NCFASD Informed (501c3) is producing this series to further it's mission...to create FASD informed communities to empower individuals affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol. Through our podcast series, we also hope to educate our audience, by interviewing those in the FASD community, to be FASD Informed.On today's episode, we will be interviewing Sontina Barnes. Sontina holds both a Master of Social Work and a Juris Doctorate in Public Interest with a Concentration in Child Welfare. Sontina serves as a board member of NCFASD Informed. She currently teaches in the Social Work Department at North Carolina State University. Sontina is also the coordinator of the new dual degree JD/MSW program jointly between North Carolina State University and Campbell Law School.Some of the topics covered in today's episode include:-  Sontina's experience as a clinical social worker and what led her to learn more about FASD and the populations / families that she served.- How limited the awareness of FASD is in both the Social Work and Legal Professions.- Misconceptions and myths about FASD that are still in the community.- How FASD impacts the community that is served by social work / social services / legal professions.-  Changes that could be made in the community that would better support and serve individuals living with FASD (and their loved ones / families).- How trainings and educational opportunities about FASD can help social workers and legal professionals better serve their clients.- An FASD Call to Action to inspire social workers, legal professionals and those in the social services professions to receive training, education about FASD, learn more and become more FASD informed.  You can reach Sontina Barnes through her NCFASD Informed email at:sontina.barnes@ncfasdinformed.org 

Welcome to the third episode of "FASD Informed", a podcast series sponsored and produced by the North Carolina Nonprofit Organization, NCFASD Informed. FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, a brain-based, whole body disorder and FASD Diagnoses are a result of prenatal exposure to alcohol. The disabilities caused by such exposure fall under the umbrella of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.In today's episode, we are speaking with Dr. Yasmin Senturias. Dr. Senturias is a Professor of Pediatrics and Interim Division Chief of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Atrium Health-Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Senturias started the first FASD Clinic in North Carolina. She is one of the authors of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) "FASD Toolkit" and Dr. Senturias serves as one of the AAP FASD Champions, as well as a member of the AAP's FASD Expert Panel.Dr. Senturias will be discussing the following topics:-  How she became involved in working with children / teens / young adults with FASD-  What are the "red flags" that a child may have an FASD?-  The "SNAP" Acronym used in evaluating / diagnosing patients with an FASD.  "SNAP" stands for S- Self Regulation, N- Neuro-cognitive, A- Adaptive Functioning, P- Prenatal History-  Addressing the concern about having concrete evidence of a biological mother's drinking during pregnancy-  Advice for parents / caregivers who may suspect their child / loved one may have an FASD-  Encouragement for parents / caregivers / support workers to focus on the strengths of individuals diagnosed with an FASD

Welcome to the second episode of "FASD Informed" a podcast series sponsored and produced by NCFASD Informed.Josh's Hope is a non-profit organization in North Carolina that provides training, skills building and a variety of programs for older teens and young adults living with mental illness / developmental disability / substance abuse (and supports for their families). These programs address building confidence, instilling hope and inspiring self-determination. Josh's Hope provides a variety of platforms and skills to help participants learn skills and grow in a supportive environment.Steve and Julie Jarrell Bailey co-founded Josh's Hope in 2010, following the 2008 murder of their son, Josh, who lived with mental illness issues and learning disabilities.The Baileys created Josh's Hope to fill the need for a comprehensive program to offer participants structured days with job and vocational skills in a supportive environment.In this episode, Steve Bailey, Executive Director of Josh's Hope Foundation will speak with FASD Informed Host Natalie Vecchione about the following:- The history of Josh's Hope- How Josh's Hope works closely with many community supports and organizations- How Josh's Hope grew and information about the five programs offered by Josh's Hope- How Josh's Hope addresses a variety of client / participant needs- How Josh's Hope has been successful for quite a few participants, who live with an FASD- Future plans for Josh's Hope   

“FASD Informed" Podcast Series Podcast Episdode  #1 - An Introduction to FASD with Kathy Hotelling, Ph.D Co-Founder and Board Chair of NCFASD InformedPodcast Host- Natalie Vecchione, MS. MT-BC Welcome to the first podcast of FASD Informed, a new podcast series produced by NCFASD Informed!FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, a brain-based (and whole body) disorder. FASD diagnoses are a result of prenatal exposure to alcohol. The disabilities caused by such exposure fall under the umbrella of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.Some of the topics we’ll cover in this first episode of FASD Informed include:- What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)? - A Brief description of the FASD “umbrella” of diagnoses - What are primary and secondary characteristics? - What is Developmental Age versus Chronological Age? - Why is an “official” diagnosis so important? - Learn about NCFASD Informed, why it was developed and resources it provides to the FASD   Community.