When Imposter Syndrome Shows Up in Pediatric Feeding Therapy (and What to Do Next)

In this episode of The Untethered Podcast, Hallie Bulkin addresses one of the most common challenges clinicians face when entering pediatric feeding therapy: imposter syndrome.
Many speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists feel unqualified or “not ready” to begin working with pediatric feeding cases. Hallie explains why this feeling is normal, why it doesn’t mean you lack competence, and why waiting for confidence before taking action can keep clinicians stuck for years.

This episode explores why confidence in pediatric feeding therapy is not built through endless studying or certifications alone. Instead, confidence is cumulative and develops through real clinical experience, repetition, mentorship, and supported decision-making. Hallie reframes imposter syndrome as a sign of professional growth and stretching into new clinical skills, not a signal to stop.

If you’re interested in pediatric feeding therapy but feel unsure where to start, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and a realistic path forward grounded in action and support.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why nearly every pediatric feeding therapist starts out feeling unqualified
How imposter syndrome shows up in feeding therapy and what it really means
Why studying alone doesn’t build clinical confidence
How hands-on clinical reps accelerate learning in pediatric feeding
The role mentorship plays in developing feeding therapy competence
Why confidence grows through experience, not readiness

If you’re feeling unsure where to start in pediatric feeding, Screen The Peds to Feed The Peds is the perfect next step.

Join me for this free 3-day training, where I’ll show you how to screen feeding cases clearly, confidently, and with intention — so you know what to do next.

Join the free 3-day Screen The Peds to Feed The Peds training
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