In this episode of the Listen for LIFE Aphasia podcast, we dive into the world of caregiving for individuals with communication with Dr. Kristin Schaffer Mendez. Dr. Kristin Schaffer Mendez, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and an assistant professor at the University of St. Augustine in Austin, TX. Her primary areas of focus are in adult neurogenic communication disorders and counseling. Kristin researches holistic treatment approaches and lived experiences of people with aphasia/PPA and their care partners. She shares her expertise and insights on providing support for patients, families, and caregivers.

To uncomplicate aphasia and enhance the well-being of both patients and caregivers, Kristin encourages establishing a strong therapeutic relationship with patients and their families. By doing so, treatment outcomes can be improved, and overall well-being can be enhanced.

Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved ones. If you want to learn more about LIFE Speech Pathology and their resources, be sure to check out their website and social media channels.

Take action today and prioritize your well-being as a caregiver. You're doing an incredible job, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

If you want more information regarding Kristin's research, or if you have any questions for her, please email her at kmendez@usa.edu!

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

“I wasn’t lazy. I was lost.”

If that line hits too close to home, this conversation is for you.

After stroke or aphasia, it’s easy to believe you’re just not trying hard enough. That you should feel more motivated. But what if it’s not a lack of willpower? What if the real issue is apathy, grief, or a recovery mindset that no longer fits?

This episode with Aaron Avila (Stroke TV Media) is honest, grounded, and deeply needed. We talk about what it means to rebuild when motivation feels gone—and why the “try harder” advice survivors often get isn’t just unhelpful. It can actually backfire.

• Why stroke survivors feel stuck—even when they want to move forward • The difference between apathy and depression (and why it matters) • How purpose—not willpower—actually fuels motivation • The mindset shift that helped Aaron take back his life • One small way to start rebuilding today

If this episode hit home—there’s a guide I want you to have. https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/take-it-back-phrasebook

More Resources: Speak up for yourself after stroke—Take It Back: https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co/f/take-it-back Are you Lisa or Elena? https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co/f/lisa-or-elena Feel stuck? This will remind you why progress is still possible: https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/neuroplasticity Care partner resources: https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co/care-partner-resources Explore therapy options: https://dolifespeechpathology.com Join our private support community: https://dolifespeechpathology.co/collective Subscribe for new episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@LIFESpeechPathology/videos Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listen-for-life-aphasia-podcast/id1621948384

Start small. Start here. Start with you.

He looked down and said, “I don’t even know how to talk to her anymore.”

That moment didn’t happen in the hospital. It happened at home—months after stroke rehab ended. When the support disappeared, and recovery got… quiet.

If you’ve ever felt like the plan vanished after discharge, like you're carrying something no one prepared you for—this episode is for you.

We’re naming the therapy shift no one explains. And we’re breaking down what actually helps after stroke… and what leaves families stuck.

• What “the therapy shift” really means—and why it catches families off guard
• How to know if therapy is working (and when it’s not)
• What care partners should be included in—but often aren’t
• What to look for in a therapist who truly gets aphasia
• A short, powerful story that might sound like your own

If this episode hit home—

For the stroke survivor: You might be wondering, “How do I take back control of my recovery?”

We created the Take It Back guide to help you do exactly that—with tools and insights that center your identity, voice, and goals. 👉 https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co/f/take-it-back

And if you’re a care partner: You’re holding so much—being protective, being the cheerleader, managing all the new responsibilities. This role doesn’t come with a manual—but this tool is a powerful first step to getting control.

The Care Partner Self-Reflection Wheel helps you see where you’re strong—and where you might need more support. It’s not about judgment. It’s about visibility. 👉 https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co/f/care-partner-strengths-wheel

More Resources:

• LIFE Aphasia Collective® Community: https://dolifespeechpathology.co/collective
• 3 Reasons Aphasia Progress Never Stops: https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/neuroplasticity
• Care Partner Resources: https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co/care-partner-resources
• LIFE Speech Pathology® Services: https://dolifespeechpathology.com
• YouTube Channel (More Episodes): https://www.youtube.com/@LIFESpeechPathology/videos
• Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listen-for-life-aphasia-podcast/id1621948384

You’re not doing this wrong. You’re doing something no one prepared you for. And you’re not doing it alone anymore.