Blind Abilities

In this Wellness Wednesday episode, Beth and Robin explore the growing role of AI in supporting mental health. With a compassionate and grounded perspective, they weigh the benefits and limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT as supplemental resources for emotional support, especially when traditional help isn’t accessible. While AI can offer journaling prompts, grounding techniques, and even a touch of humor, they emphasize that it’s not a replacement for the irreplaceable human connection found in therapy. From boosting mindfulness to aiding late-night anxiety, AI may belong in your wellness toolkit—just be mindful, intentional, and always double-check what it offers.

Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.

Show Hosts:

            Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com

            Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS

            Www.transitioningthroughchange.com

You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

In this episode of Wellness Wednesday , Beth and Robin explore the emotional challenges of facing the unknown. Drawing on their therapeutic experience, they offer gentle grounding techniques such as mindfulness, affirmations, and power songs to restore a sense of control. They remind listeners that anxiety is a natural response and emphasize the healing power of music, routine, and intentional presence. Through relatable insights, they encourage self-compassion and staying connected during uncertain times.

Anchoring in the Now: Tools to Navigate Anxiety and Uncertainty

Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.

Show Hosts:

            Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com

            Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS

            Www.transitioningthroughchange.com

You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

This Blind Abilities episode features peer ambassadors Amy and Maddy, who share how Minnesota’s State Services for the Blind (SSB) has supported their educational and vocational journeys. From summer camps to career exploration and technology training, SSB has played a vital role in helping them develop independence, self-advocacy, and professional readiness. Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis explains how SSB collaborates with students, schools, and families starting at age 14, providing individualized services like job shadowing, orientation and mobility training, and Braille instruction. The episode highlights real-world experiences, resources, and the long-term impact of SSB on the lives of blind and visually impaired students.

To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call 651-385-5205.

Full Transcript

In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson speaks with three professionals from State Services for the Blind (SSB)—Kate Larson, Randi Lasher, and Shane DeSantis—who support students with vision loss as they prepare for life after high school. They share helpful tips about applying for college, getting financial aid (like FAFSA and scholarships), gaining job experience through internships, and working closely with counselors for support. They also talk about the importance of accessibility, orientation and mobility, and how internships and campus resources can help you feel confident and ready to succeed in college and beyond.

To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call 651-385-5205.

Full Transcript:

This podcast episode highlights the alarming legal challenge to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a foundational disability rights law in the United States. Kaleigh Brendle, a student advocate, explains that 17 attorneys general have filed a lawsuit arguing that Section 504 is unconstitutional. If repealed, this could strip away protections for millions of disabled Americans, impacting education, employment, healthcare, and accessibility. The conversation emphasizes the lack of media coverage on the issue and urges public action to defend disability rights. The discussion also connects this case to broader civil rights issues, stressing the potential consequences of dismantling federal oversight on disability protections.

Here is a link to the article with Kaleigh Brendle on USA Today.

full Transcript