From Isolated to Inspired: How Connection Transforms the Pediatric Provider Experience
Gail Garza, MS, CCC-SLP Gail Garza, MS, CCC-SLP

From Isolated to Inspired: How Connection Transforms the Pediatric Provider Experience

Burnout doesn’t always start with exhaustion—it often begins with isolation. At ICAN, we believe no clinician should have to do this work alone. In our latest blog post, we explore the silent toll of professional loneliness and how a truly collaborative culture can change everything.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected in your role, this one’s for you. 💬👇

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Trust, Teamwork, and Empathy (Part 2): Improving Pediatric Therapy Team Dynamics
Gail Garza, MS, CCC-SLP Gail Garza, MS, CCC-SLP

Trust, Teamwork, and Empathy (Part 2): Improving Pediatric Therapy Team Dynamics

Strong teams don’t just happen-they’re built on trust, understanding, and genuine empathy. In the high-stakes world of pediatric therapy, Brené Brown’s four pillars of empathy can help team members connect, communicate, and collaborate more effectively. This post explores how embracing perspective-taking, nonjudgment, emotional awareness, and mindfulness can improve relationships among colleagues, reduce conflict, and create a supportive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.

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Trust, Teamwork, and Empathy (Part 1): Compassion Fatigue
Gail Garza, MS, CCC-SLP Gail Garza, MS, CCC-SLP

Trust, Teamwork, and Empathy (Part 1): Compassion Fatigue

While empathy is essential for building trust and collaboration in pediatric therapy teams, it also comes with a hidden cost: compassion fatigue. This emotional exhaustion can quietly creep in when staff members are consistently exposed to the challenges and traumas faced by the children and families they serve. Recognizing the signs of compassion fatigue and supporting one another through open communication, peer support, and mindful self-care is crucial. By addressing compassion fatigue head-on, teams can maintain their well-being, preserve strong interpersonal relationships, and continue providing the highest quality care to those who need it most.

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Leveling the Playing Field: The Power of Adaptive Sports
Gail Garza Gail Garza

Leveling the Playing Field: The Power of Adaptive Sports

For years, conversations around disabilities have focused on raising awareness-but now, we’re moving toward something even more powerful: acceptance and true inclusion. Nowhere is this shift more inspiring than in the world of sports. When people with neurodivergence and different disabilities are welcomed onto the field, the benefits ripple far beyond the scoreboard. Inclusive sports programs foster confidence, friendship, and a sense of belonging, reminding us that everyone deserves the chance to play, grow, and celebrate their unique strengths-together.

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Understanding the New CDC Autism Prevalence Estimates: A Parent-Friendly, Neurodiversity-Affirming Guide
Gail Garza Gail Garza

Understanding the New CDC Autism Prevalence Estimates: A Parent-Friendly, Neurodiversity-Affirming Guide

The CDC’s latest numbers show that 1 in 31 children in the U.S. are now identified as autistic—a noticeable increase from previous years. But what’s behind this rise? In this parent-friendly, neurodiversity-affirming post, we explore how changes in diagnostic criteria, growing awareness, and a better understanding of autism as a spectrum have led to more children being recognized and supported. Discover why these numbers are a sign of progress, and how embracing neurodiversity can help every child thrive.

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Resiliency in Healthcare: A Path to Minimizing Burnout
Gail Garza Gail Garza

Resiliency in Healthcare: A Path to Minimizing Burnout

As healthcare professionals working with neurodivergent youth, we face unique challenges that can lead to burnout if not managed effectively. Building resilience is key to thriving in these roles. By focusing on strategies like mindfulness, self-care, and fostering a growth mindset, we can enhance our ability to handle stress and maintain our well-being. Additionally, utilizing tools like the Circles of Control can help us channel our energy more effectively, reducing stress related to uncontrollable factors. By prioritizing resilience, we not only benefit ourselves but also improve the quality of care we provide to our clients. Dive into this blog post to explore these strategies and more, including recommended books to deepen your understanding of personal growth and resilience.

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