Trauma Informed Care

  • Heal, Grow, Thrive: Trauma-Informed Occupational Therapy at Pediatric Connections

    At Pediatric Connections, we specialize in understanding the neurobiology of trauma. We go beyond traditional approaches to gently rewire the nervous system, building a foundation of safety, resilience, and hope.

The Pediatric Connections Difference:
Specialized Trauma Informed Care

UNDERSTANDING THE “WHY” BEHIND THE BEHAVIOR: WE TREAT THE ROOT CAUSE.

We recognize that the challenging behaviors often seen in children with trauma histories—anxiety, emotional outbursts, or withdrawal—are the body’s natural response to a dysregulated nervous system. We utilize the Polyvagal Theory to guide our practice, focusing first on creating a “felt sense of safety” before expecting change.

  • We help regulate the nervous system: Our priority is to help your child’s brain shift from a constant state of “fight or flight” to a safe state of “rest and digest.”

  • Beyond Behaviors: We use the science of neurobiology and cutting-edge modalities to expand their “window of tolerance” for stress.

Our Unique, Advanced Modalities in Action

OUR TOOLKIT FOR RESILIENCE: ADVANCED & GENTLE THERAPIES
We combine specialized training with compassionate care to offer powerful pathways to healing:

Core Regulation & Integration Therapies:

  • Polyvagal Theory: We use this framework to understand your child’s emotional and behavioral responses, ensuring we meet them where they are and build safety through co-regulation.

  • Safe Sound Protocol (SSP) & Rest and Restore Protocol (RRP):  These innovative listening programs use filtered music to send cues of safety to the nervous system. SSP builds auditory resilience and social engagement, while RRP strengthens interoception (listening inside the body) and self-regulation skills.

  • Neurofeedback: A non-invasive system that gently helps the brain restore resilience and flexibility, improving focus and emotional balance without diagnosis requirements.

Brain-body based interventions:

  • MNRI Reflex Integration: We address the foundational automatic reflex responses to improve sensory processing and motor skills, crucial for a stable nervous system.

  • Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT): A gentle, non-invasive way to release deep tension in the connective tissues (fascia), promoting self-healing and physical balance.

  • Bal-A-Vis-X: Rhythmic balance, auditory, and vision exercises that teach calm precision and cross the midline, integrating brain hemispheres for better coordination and focus.

A Healing Environment & Aqua Therapy

Designed for Healing: In the Clinic & In the Water

  • Safety-First Clinic Space: Our environment is intentionally calming and predictable, prioritizing the core trauma-informed principles of safety and choice. You will have a predictable location, therapist and consistent weekly appointment time.

  • Aqua Therapy (8-Week Sessions): We offer unique sessions in the water, which provides unparalleled sensory input. This buoyant, supportive environment is an excellent opportunity to improve reflex skills and nervous system regulation in a fun, contained space with ability to regulate water temperature.

Who We Help

We’re Here Specifically For Your Family If Your Child Experiences:

  • Trauma History: We have extensive experience working with children and adults who have experienced complex trauma.

  • Foster/Adoptive Care: Specialized support designed for the unique challenges faced by foster children.

  • Frequent emotional meltdowns, anxiety, or hypervigilance

  • Withdrawal, numbness, or difficulty engaging in play/school

  • Challenges with self-regulation and body awareness (interoception)

  • And many more!

Start the Journey Towards Calm and Resilience Today

Discover how our specialized, trauma-informed approach can help your child thrive. Visit Pediatric Connections to get started.