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📅 Published: 08 December 2025

🎙 Introduction

Welcome to the Connected Kidz Podcast! Each month we share stories, strategies, and expert insights to help parents and practitioners supporting children with autism, ADHD, and sensory challenges.

In this episode, Join Josh Davison on the Connected Kidz Podcast as he speaks with Gene Handyside, registered counselor and head of Adapticare.

Gene shares his professional journey, why he explored the Melillo Method, and what practitioners value most when supporting autistic children and teens. He explains why the PACE model aligns so naturally with MMM and why consistency, measurable progress and individualized care are the foundations professionals look for, but often struggle to find, in traditional programs.

Gene also touches on clinician burnout and the shift that happens when a method moves beyond symptom management and supports balanced, functional brain systems underneath. His insights are honest, practical and grounded, the kind parents and professionals genuinely benefit from.

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✨ Key Takeaways

00:00 – Introduction to Connected Kidz Podcast
00:00 Introduction to Connected Kidz Podcast
00:33 Meet Gene Handyside
01:17 Gene's Professional Background
01:56 The Importance of Support Workers
05:47 The PACE Model Explained
09:49 Gene's Involvement with Connected Kidz
10:27 The Melillo Method: A Counselor's Perspective
10:44 Primitive Reflexes and Brain Development
11:58 The Role of Occupational Therapists
14:52 Adapticare's Vision and Goals
17:24 How to Access Adapticare Services
18:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents

✅ Resources & Next Steps

• Learn more about the Connected Kidz Program. Contact Us

• Follow us on Spotify 👉 Spotify

• Watch on YouTube 👉 YouTube Playlist