We interviewed Patricia Lemer about her latest book Total Load Theory – Transforming Lives in Autism, ADHD, LD, SPD, and Mental Health. You can watch the replay below. Please note that you will be asked to provide your email address at the 30-minute mark to continue viewing the replay.
What Is Total Load Theory?
Total load theory is an etiology that fingers not a single cause, but rather a complex combination of biological, environmental, immunological, neurological, psychological, and toxicological load factors for chronic health conditions. These conditions include neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, learning disabilities and mood/emotional disorders; autoimmune disorders, asthma, allergies and more. Potential root causes of these conditions include:
In This Webinar
In this webinar, Patty helped us to answer the following questions:
- What is total load theory?
- What are examples of root causes and stressors that contribute to autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, learning disabilities and mood/emotional disorders?
- What role does genetics play?
- How does a family start to address these root causes? Is there a plan or process to follow?
- What are examples of therapies and supports that can help a child to heal?
- If root causes are addressed, can children heal from these seemingly lifelong conditions?
Key Discussions
Total Load Theory as a Framework for Understanding Neurodevelopmental and Mental Health Conditions
Total Load Theory posits that it’s the accumulation of many stressors (biological, environmental, social, academic, and more) that leads to the “collapse” seen in conditions such as autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, learning disabilities and mental health conditions. There is rarely a single cause—it’s the interplay and buildup of multiple factors, and healing requires addressing the total load rather than chasing one root cause.
The Importance of Taking a Comprehensive History for Effective Intervention
Healing starts with a detailed health history, looking at everything from prenatal health, stress, environment, genetics, allergies, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, among other root causes. Only by understanding the unique mix of stressors can one prioritize and customize interventions, as the same therapy may not work for every child or adult—order and individual context matter. Patty emphasizes being a detective in figuring out how the family’s and child’s total load contributed to the diagnosis.
Foundational Role of Lifestyle and Environmental Changes
Changes to diet, sleep quality, removing environmental toxins (such as mold, chemicals, EMFs), and creating a safe, nurturing environment are foundational. These basic improvements often yield the biggest results and set the stage for more specific therapies to work. It’s not about expensive therapies first; it’s about cleaning up everyday living.
Developmental Milestones, Sensory Integration, and Vision’s Role in Learning and Behavior
Early childhood milestones such as crawling, integration of reflexes, and foundational sensory experiences (vestibular, motor, vision) are vitally important. Gaps or atypical development can lead to later learning and behavioral difficulties. Addressing sensory and vision integration can significantly enhance outcomes—even for speech and academic performance.
The Power of Mindset, Family Systems, and Emotional Safety in Healing
Feeling safe—emotionally and physically—is a prerequisite for learning and growth. The nervous system (especially the vagus nerve) must be regulated, and family dynamics, generational trauma, and belief systems can play a direct role. Family constellations work, stimulating the vagus nerve and cultivating safe, supportive environments help lower the total load and accelerate transformation. The body cannot heal if it is in a state of stress, and many children are stuck in “fight or flight”.
Timestamped Overview
17:54 Brain laterality challenges explained
30:07 Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle
38:32 Detecting hidden inflammation causes
51:57 The effect of EMFs and electrical fields on health
53:13 Guidance for life after school
01:06:08 Achieving depth perception with vision therapy
01:16:37 Dietary changes
01:29:46 Interventions can help anyone at any age
01:40:15 Healing starts with the basics
02:14:35 Progressive lenses and eye strain explained
02:18:19 Addressing learning challenges with vision therapy
Resources Mentioned in This Webinar
The CDC Has Worsened Developmental Delays
Webinar replay: Mold in the Home and Its Impact on Health with PJ Harlow
Mold, Mycotoxin and Biotoxin Illness Main Info Page
Medical & Scientific Literature
How Wireless Devices Might Contribute to Autism Symptoms
Webinar replay: The Role of EMFs in Excitotoxicity, Autism and Seizures with Peter Sullivan
The Invisible Health Hazard That Is Easy to Miss
Whole-Body Apraxia vs. Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Dana Johnson PhD OTR/L
Book review: Underestimated, an Autism Miracle
Webinar replay: How to Personalize Your Child’s Autism Nutrition Plan with Julie Matthews
Book review: The Personalized Autism Nutrition Plan
The Five Levels of Healing According to Dietrich Klinghardt MD PhD
Does My Child Have a Dysregulated Nervous System?
Documenting Hope Practitioner Directory
Acetaminophen and the Autism Connection
About Patricia S. Lemer LPC MEd
Patricia S. Lemer is a licensed professional counselor, holding a Masters of Education in counseling and learning disabilities from Boston College and a Masters in Business from Johns Hopkins University. She practiced as an educational diagnostician for over 40 years.
She was a co-founder and served as Executive Director of the international non-profit organization Developmental Delay Resources (DDR). After DDR merged with Epidemic Answers, she became Chairman of the Board. When she retired from the board, she became an emeritus board member.
She is the author of three books, the most recent of which is Outsmarting Autism, Updated and Expanded: Build Healthy Foundations for Communication, Socialization, and Behavior at All Ages (North Atlantic Books, 2019).
Lemer wrote over 50 editorials for "New Developments," the quarterly newsletter of Developmental Delay Resources (DDR), from 1995 - 2009. When DDR wound down, she wrote an online blog, "After the Diagnosis, Then What?" from 2009-2017. Her articles and blogs have been updated and archived on the Epidemic Answers website.
Since 2019, Patricia Lemer has recorded a bimonthly podcast, "The Autism Detective." In these hour-long shows, she interviews parents and professionals about their experiences in maximizing the potential of individuals on the autism spectrum. Over 100 episodes are available on Spotify and other online platforms. To learn more, go to PatriciaLemer.com and OutsmartingAutism.com
Disclaimer
This webinar is not a substitute for medical advice, treatment, diagnosis, or consultation with a medical professional. It is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on to make determinations related to treatment of a medical condition. Documenting Hope has not verified and does not guaranty the accuracy of the information provided in this webinar.
Still Looking for Answers?
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Join us inside our online membership community for parents, Healing Together, where you’ll find even more healing resources, expert guidance, and a community to support you every step of your child’s healing journey.
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A Global Fertility Crisis – Dr. Shanna Swan
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American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM)
