Patti Andrich, OTR/L, COVT is a clinical manager, business owner, occupational therapist, and certified optometric vision therapist. She is internationally recognized for her expertise in treating sensory and motor processing disorders in both children and adults. Named Vision Therapist of the Year in 2020, Patti holds a master's degree from Ohio State University and an occupational therapy degree from Cleveland State University. She is certified in auditory processing, INPP-permitted reflex integration techniques, and vision therapy. Patti is the founder of the Sensory Foundations Program, a neurosensory motor program designed to integrate primitive reflexes and improve postural stability. She specializes in helping individuals with attention, behavioral, coordination, visual, auditory, vestibular, and emotional regulation challenges.

In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis and co-host Kaylee Blair sit down with Patti Andrich to explore the critical role of primitive reflexes in brain injury recovery. Patti shares her journey from struggling with undiagnosed vision issues to becoming a leading expert in reflex integration and neuro-optometric rehabilitation. She explains how primitive reflexes act as neurological "codes" that, when disrupted by brain injury, can lead to symptoms like emotional dysregulation, balance issues, and sensory overload.

Patti dives into practical strategies for reintegrating these reflexes, including movement exercises, visualization techniques, and sensory stimulation. She also highlights the importance of a team approach, involving neuro-optometrists, OTs, and other specialists, to restore optimal brain function. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how vision, reflexes, and sensory processing interconnect—and how addressing these foundational systems can accelerate recovery.

Resources Mentioned:

• Patti’s Website: sensoryfocus.com

• Work Email: info@sensoryfocus.com

• Book: Indicators of Primitive and Postural Reflexes by Patti Andrich

• Neuro-Optometric Resources:

• • COVD.ORG (College of Optometrists in Vision Development)

  • NORA Vision Rehab (Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association)

Contact info:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patti-andrich-2298a3134

• Instagram: @thevisiondevelopmentteam

  
  

If you would like to sign up for a free concussion coaching consultation with me to learn how you can understand and manage your symptoms, speed up your recovery, and get your life back following a concussion, click here: ⁠https://theconcussioncoach.com/contact

In this episode, Bethany Lewis, The Concussion Coach, welcomes ReNae Cox—a close family friend, former piano teacher, and concussion survivor—to share her powerful journey of recovery. ReNae opens up about the challenges she faced after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the emotional and cognitive hurdles, and the unexpected lessons she learned along the way.

She shares the confusion, frustration, and emotional turbulence that followed her concussion, including memory struggles, sensory overload, and the impact on daily tasks. ReNae discusses the tools that helped her recover—such as music, breathing techniques, vision therapy, and faith—and how her relationship with her husband deepened through the process. One of Bethany’s favorite quotes that ReNae said was “The Lord puts us on a path to figure out the next answer to the next question.”

This heartfelt conversation highlights the importance of patience, curiosity, and trusting the journey of healing. ReNae’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of support, offering hope to anyone navigating life after a concussion.

Resources Mentioned:

• Brainwave Entrainment (for calming overstimulation)

• Vision Therapy (for post-concussion eye issues)

• Breathing Techniques (to regulate the nervous system)

• HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) for energy recovery

  
  

Connect with Bethany Lewis (The Concussion Coach):

• Website: www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Bethany’s FREEBIE (5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with Concussion): theconcussioncoach.com

  
  

If you or someone you love is struggling with lingering concussion symptoms, please know that recovery is possible. Subscribe to this podcast for practical tips, hope-filled stories, and expert guidance from Bethany Lewis. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share to spread concussion awareness!

If you would like to sign up for a free concussion coaching consultation with me to learn how you can understand and manage your symptoms, speed up your recovery, and get your life back following a concussion, click here: ⁠https://theconcussioncoach.com/contact

Chandani Khan is a concussion survivor turned educator who experienced a life-altering brain injury six years ago from a car accident. Her journey through persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) led her to identify critical gaps in concussion care and advocate for systemic change. Now, she educates practitioners through workshops and is launching a learning community for professionals in 2025. Chandani is passionate about improving concussion recovery by bridging the gap between lived experience and clinical knowledge.

Episode Summary:In this episode, Chandani shares her deeply personal concussion journey—from losing basic cognitive functions (like making a sandwich or choosing clothes) to rebuilding her identity and purpose. She discusses:

• The invisible struggles of PPCS and how symptoms ripple into daily life.

• The lack of public and medical awareness around long-term concussion impacts.

• The importance of active rest, pacing, and self-advocacy in recovery.

• How she regained hope through personal growth and "win stacking" (small victories).

• Her mission to transform concussion care through Return to Life, her company offering:

• • Educational workshops for concussion professionals.

  • A soon-to-launch learning community for providers.

  • One-on-one support for PPCS survivors

Chandani’s story highlights the need for patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and redefining recovery beyond symptom lists.

Key Resources & Contact Info:

• Website: returntolife.ca

• Email: hello@returntolife.ca

• LinkedIn: Chandani Khan (for professional collaboration)

• Instagram: @chaankhan

1. Advice for Survivors:

2. • Seek providers with concussion-specific expertise (experience > credentials).

   • Advocate fiercely—fire ineffective therapists.

   • Embrace "messy" recovery; time is a non-negotiable factor.

3. For Loved Ones:

4. • Replace "How are you?" with specific, low-pressure questions.

   • Offer practical help (e.g., meal prep, grocery orders).

   • Listen without problem-solving.

5. For Professionals:

6. • Prioritize lived experience in treatment plans.

   • Build interdisciplinary teams to reduce patient burden.

Notable Takeaways:

• Bethany’s FREEBIE (5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with Concussion): theconcussioncoach.com

  
  

If you would like to sign up for a free concussion coaching consultation with me to learn how you can understand and manage your symptoms, speed up your recovery, and get your life back following a concussion, click here: ⁠https://theconcussioncoach.com/contact