(WC 150406 BOWEN-IRISH 2025) Reactive, Aggressive, and Withdrawn Kids: A Complete Guide to Transforming Extreme Dysregulation

Course overview

Decode extreme behaviors as nervous system distress - not defiance Integrate polyvagal, sensory, and trauma-informed tools Build Relational safety for even the most reactive kids Walk away with practical, ready-to-use strategies for meltdowns, shutdowns, elopement, and aggression. You've tried everything - but some kids still lash out, shut down, bolt, throw chairs, scream, or hit. These aren't just "challenging behaviors" - they're survival responses from nervous systems stuck in distress. What if the issue isn't a lack of tools, but a fragmented approach that overlooks the deeper causes? Today's kids face complex dysregulation rooted in trauma, sensory challenges, executive functioning delays, anxiety, and neurodivergence. And traditional methods often fall short, leaving these kids misunderstood, labeled and underserved. This transformative training with Tere Brown-Irish, OTR/L - creator of the Drive Thru Menu Suite of Exercises - introduces a polyvagal- and sensory-informed framework to address behavior at its root: through connection, regulation, and a whole-child approach. Designed for occupational therapists, mental health clinicians, educators, and other child-serving professionals, this course offers a practical, compassionate path forward for even the most reactive, aggressive, or withdrawn children. You'll discover: How to decode extreme behaviors and design a path forward Coregulation and sensorimotor-based strategies to restore connection New tools for responding to elopement, shutdowns, aggression, and self-injury Polyvagal-informed techniques that support nervous system resilience Personalized "Go-To Menus" for prevention and recovery routines Coaching methods to foster consistent, compassionate environments This course won't just expand your toolbox - it will help you organize it into a powerful, integrated system to support the kids who need it most.