The Real Work
We are a therapy collective with a specific focus on neurodiversity, early childhood, brain science, attachment, expressive arts and the power of play.
March at The Real Work: The missing step in emotional regulation
Hi parents and caregivers, Welcome to March at The Real Work! This month we have a treat: A warm, thoughtful conversation with Kimia that will get us reflecting on safety, slowing down, and connection to self as parents. Plus a resource for parents outlining how to apply strategies we use with kids, to our own daily routines. Why do we avoid slowing down to notice difficult emotions? An Interview with Kimia Amirifar, LPC: Kimia Amirifar, LPC practices Synergetic Play Therapy with kids ages...
Is the behavior actually Sensory Overload or even a clue to sensory processing disorder? A Parent’s Guide to the 8 Sensory Systems
Is the behavior actually Sensory Overload or even a clue to sensory processing disorder? A Parent’s Guide to the 8 Sensory Systems In this post, we summarize what it might look like if difficult behaviors are actually coming from sensory processing differences, and how to tell. Here are some signs that your child may be experiencing consistent under- or over-activation of a sensory system: • Perseverating- Repetition of Behaviors, repetition of a script • Panic/Anxiety • Rigidity • Obsessing...
February at The Real Work: What is "masking" and does that explain my child's experience? Plus, a coping skills menu download
Hi parents and caregivers, We hope you're well this February! We have some great resources for you this month. Dive in and learn with us! Understanding High-Masking Kids and the After-School Regulation Crash School is neurologically demanding. Even when a child is not struggling academically, they may be navigating: Constant social interpretation Noise and sensory input Performance pressure Transitions every 30–60 minutes Unwritten social rules Suppressing stimming or movement Trying very...
Fun Monday News: Photos from our last Special Interest Group!
Hi Reader, Check out photos from our latest Special Interest Group, we had such a cozy time hanging with fellow dinosaur lovers, and with sensory exploration and social interactions. We feel so glad to be able to facilitate small moments of joy for families, and we are so grateful for all of you. Our next group is on Rocks, Minerals, and Plants and we wanted to tell everyone about it so you all have a chance to sign up. You can learn more about Gabi and Bonnie's groups on the buttons below :)...
Drama Therapy Group for Kids: Starts March 1 on Sundays
Hi Reader, I wanted to put this on your radar because it looks like such a supportive option for some of the kids we work with. Our upcoming Drama Therapy Group is designed for children ages 5–7 who learn best through play, imagination, and movement. This group can be a great fit for kids who: • Have big feelings that come out as shutdowns, meltdowns, or silliness • struggle with transitions, flexibility, or peer dynamics • Benefit from a safe space to be themselves in a group setting • Have...
January at The Real Work: Is it Picky Eating or ARFID, plus a neuroafffirming booklist for teens/parents!
Hi parents and caregivers, We hope you're well this January! 2026 is hitting hard in many areas, and we have been working hard over here. Here are some fresh resources and kindness for you. Our newest teammate and therapist for Teens, brings us information on disordered eating, neuroaffirming resources, drama therapy, and MORE. Is it "picky eating" or ARFID? What is ARFID? ARFID stands for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It is an eating disorder where a child does not eat enough...
Introducing Mick! Plus a Few More Updates!
Hi Reader, We’re excited to introduce Mick James, LPCA (she/they), the newest therapist to join The Real Work. Mick works with adolescents and adults and brings a thoughtful, creative, and deeply affirming presence to therapy. Their work is especially supportive for clients navigating identity exploration, body image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, and emotional overwhelm. Mick’s approach is trauma-aware, fat-affirming, and HAES®-informed, with a strong foundation in LGBTQIA+ affirming...
Meet Mick James, LPCA: Afternoon spots for TEENS at The Real Work
Hi Reader, You're receiving this because you are on our updates list, and we are so excited to announce that we are bringing a therapist for teens on board! Mick is a wonderful addition to our team and will fill quickly! She will have afternoon spots open Monday-Friday, so if you're looking for those after-school therapy openings, now is your chance. Reply here if you're interested and we will set you up with free initial inquiry call with Mick. Meet Mick We’re excited to introduce Mick...
3 Opportunities for Parents or Kids Coming Up
Hi Reader, We have 3 community support options coming up this week! Now might be a great time to get some comfort, learn from our team, and connect with one another whether at: Amber's in-person Autism Parent Support Group Diana's online class on Sensory Meltdowns Special Interest Group with Bonnie and Gabi (for ages 5-12). Here are the details for each of these events: Join our newest teammate from our merge with Thrive Outside, Diana Fitts, OTR/L for an informative and nurturing class on...
December at The Real Work: new diagnoses, a great new resource and NATURE.
Hi parents and caregivers, We hope you're well this December! For many families, it’s full of noise, transitions, and expectations. We want to share some resources and kindness with you before the months is up. We often see more parents exploring possible evaluations this time of year, as school stressors and expectations ramp up Supporting newly diagnosed kids and their parents Many parents we work with come to us after an autism or ADHD diagnosis feeling unsure about what actually helps....
We are a therapy collective with a specific focus on neurodiversity, early childhood, brain science, attachment, expressive arts and the power of play.