Previous Guest

Patricia Kasper (she/her)

Patti joined Momma on December 12, 2022 live on Twitch to talk about the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, FASD & Child Welfare

Patti is committed to improving children's lives by providing practical tools to parents and professionals who care for children with brain-based differences, whose behaviors are reflective of either brain changes that resulted from exposure to prenatal toxins and/or from trauma, or reflective of the poor fit between their cognitive abilities and the world's expectations of them. Patti has worked in the fields of mental health and child welfare for over thirty years and has worked with hundreds of foster and adoptive families. She has led workshops in the areas of adoption, trauma and resiliency, attachment and neurobehavior for several years. Patti's other work, as a hospice chaplain, has fueled her fire of helping others to live life well and end the cycle of intergenerational trauma.

Patti formed her company, Patricia Kasper, MA MTh, Training Services, LLC, to increase her reach beyond the foster/adoptive parents served by her previous employers. Recognizing that training is inconsistent between public and private sectors, between various counties and states, Patti seeks to share her depth of knowledge and understanding gained through three decades of work in the mental health and child welfare fields - knowledge that is not taught in grad school - with all those caring for our most vulnerable: our children and youth.

As a Certified Facilitator of FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Consultation Education & Training Services), Patti is also committed to work with state agencies and contracting partners to become FASD-informed in their practices in preparation to meet expected regulations once FASD is nationally codified as a developmental disability.

Socials / Links for More Info

References / Things Mentioned During the Stream

Episode Summary

In this episode, Patti Kasper and I delved into a profound discussion centered around the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and its implications in child welfare. The conversation was enlightening and touched on various critical aspects of these complex subjects.

Patti began by highlighting her extensive background in child welfare and her journey through different academic disciplines, including social work and psychology. Her diverse experiences led her to develop a deep passion for understanding and assisting children with FASD, a condition caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation was the emphasis on viewing FASD as a developmental disorder that persists beyond childhood. Patti pointed out that this condition doesn't simply disappear when a child reaches a certain age, challenging the prevailing perception of FASD as a childhood disability. This understanding is crucial in ensuring that individuals with FASD receive adequate support throughout their lives.

The heart of the discussion revolved around the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, a tool that helps parents and caregivers understand and support children with FASD. Patti explained how this model focuses on identifying brain tasks, assessing what is easy and difficult for the child and tailoring support accordingly. This approach allows caregivers to provide individualized care and accommodations, helping children with FASD thrive.

Throughout the conversation, Patti passionately addressed the misconceptions and stigmas associated with FASD. She emphasized the need for a shift in societal perception, particularly regarding behavioral challenges. Patti urged parents and caregivers to consider that behaviors in children with FASD are not intentional choices but often the result of how their brains are wired.

We also discussed the parallel between FASD and other neurobehavioral conditions. Patti highlighted the importance of recognizing the unique wiring of each child's brain and advocated for the application of the FASCETS model to support children with various neurobehavioral conditions, whether diagnosed or not.

Our conversation also touched on the challenges faced by parents and caregivers, including the immense mental load of caregiving and the toll it takes on their own mental and physical health. Patti shared her own experiences as a caregiver for her mother, and the importance of self-care and support for caregivers.

Patti highlighted the urgent need to dispel the assumption that behaviors in individuals with neurobehavioral conditions are intentional choices. She stressed the importance of considering the role of their brains in shaping their behavior.

This conversation with Patti Kasper provided a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, FASD, and their broader implications in child welfare. We underscored the need for a shift in perception, increased understanding and tailored support to help individuals with FASD lead fulfilling lives. Patti's extensive knowledge and passionate advocacy for this cause made for a captivating and enlightening conversation.