PANS/ PANDAS

An Introduction for Occupational Therapists 

 

90-Minute Webinar with Michelle Newby BHSc(OT), MSc, PhD(c).

Occupational Therapist and Clinical Director

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Spot the red flags –

Learn how to identify sudden-onset behaviours that may indicate PANS/PANDAS.

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Understand the impact –

Discover how this medical condition affects children’s function across self-care, play, school, and sleep.

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Act with clarity –

Gain practical strategies to support children during exacerbation and remission phases.

Unlock the Secrets to Supporting Children with PANS/ PANDAS in Therapy

Are you an OT puzzled by children who suddenly develop intense anxiety, OCD-like behaviours, or regression in skills - seemingly overnight? Do these clients present like they’re in psychological crisis, but your go-to approaches aren’t helping?

You’re not imagining it - and you’re not alone.

Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and PANDAS (its strep-triggered variant) are real, complex, and often misunderstood medical conditions that can masquerade as mental health disorders. Children may suddenly stop eating, lose skills, resist daily routines, or spiral into rage - leaving therapists and families desperate for answers.

This webinar gives you the tools to make sense of the chaos. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of:

  • What PANS/ PANDAS is and how it impacts a child's independence and participation
  • What red flags to look for in your clinical assessments
  • How to adapt your OT intervention for exacerbation and remission phases of the condition.

Not an OT? Not a problem... 

Whether you're a psychologist, speech pathologist, educator or other allied health professional - this webinar is packed with practical insights that can help you better support children affected by PANS/PANDAS and collaborate more effectively across disciplines.

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Join me, Michelle Newby, for this insightful webinar where you'll discover: 

💡 The Hallmark Signs of PANS/PANDAS – Learn how to recognise the sudden-onset symptoms that distinguish this condition from other neurodevelopmental or mental health challenges.
💡 OT Strategies That Support, Not Trigger – Explore practical, phase-specific therapy approaches to reduce overwhelm, build trust, and maintain therapeutic momentum during exacerbation and remission periods.
💡 Real-Life Stories – Hear powerful case studies that bring the condition to life and deepen your clinical insight.

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Join me, Michelle Newby, for this insightful webinar where you'll discover: 

💡 The Key Characteristics of PDA – Understand the behavioural traits that make PDA unique.
💡 The Extreme Demand Avoidance Screening Tool– Learn about an evidence-based screening tool to help identify PDA traits and guide your clinical approach.
💡 Practical Therapy Strategies – Discover tried and tested therapy strategies to reduce resistance, foster engagement, and create therapeutic success.
💡 The Lived Experience of PDA – Gain insights from real-world perspectives to deepen your understanding and empathy.

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About me...

Hi, I’m Michelle Newby - occupational therapist, Clinical Director of Stepping Stones Therapy for Children, researcher, and international speaker. For over 25 years, I’ve worked alongside children with neurodevelopmental conditions and the therapists who support them, helping make sense of complex presentations and find practical ways forward.

I’m currently finalising my PhD, which explores the sensory and occupational challenges experienced by children with PANS. My research is grounded my in real-world clinical experience—supporting children with PANS/PANDAS from across Australia who come to my clinic seeking answers and support.

I’ve had the privilege of sharing my research findings with professionals around the world, presenting in Sweden, Brazil, the UK, the USA, and here in Australia. These international conversations continue to shape my understanding of what’s truly effective for children living with this condition.

My passion is helping occupational therapists move from confusion and overwhelm to clarity and confidence. This webinar blends the latest research, clinical insight, and lived experience - so you can walk away with strategies that actually work for children with PANS/PANDAS.

What are others saying about Michelle's webinar...

As Michelle so clearly articulates, the role of occupational therapists in supporting children and young people with PANS or PANDAS is crucial.  Grounded through Michelle's own research findings, this webinar shares the knowledge and skills necessary to support early identification and effective support, addressing the often-complex and evolving needs of these children and young people. The case studies also highlight the significant positive impact that early detection can have on children, young people, and their families. It is essential for all occupational therapists and allied professionals to be aware of these conditions.

Tina Coope, Education Lead, PANS PANDAS UK

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