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.
2 New Special Interest Groups: Nintendo and Arts + Crafts!
Hi Reader, New Special Interest Groups are here! Do you have a kiddo in your life who would love to connect or simply be around peers who share an interest in Arts and Crafts, or in Nintendo? Gabi Rookard, LCSW, RPT is facilitating two new recurring groups starting in May! Upcoming dates (Arts and Crafts): Tuesday 5/12 from 6-7 PM Tuesday 6/9 from 6-7 PM Tuesday 7/7 from 6-7 PM (rescheduled to the FIRST Tuesday of the month) Tuesday 8/11 from 6-7 PM Upcoming dates (Nintendo): Tuesday 5/26...
Would the Orchids or the Ferns Social Group be a fit?
Hi Reader, Your social group leaders, Dr. Diana, Pierce, and Kristy, have decided to open as-needed enrollment for their two social groups that meet here in Beaverton. If you have or know of a little one who would want to join, even for a few sessions to see if it's a fit, please apply below! Here are the details: The "Ferns" Group: For ages 4-7. Meets Thursdays 3:30-5:00 in Beaverton. This group is focused on early regulation, play skills, and confidence. 97.00/90-minute session The...
Fairytale MAGIC Drama Camp? Yes please!
Hi Reader, We’re so excited to offer a Fairytale MAGIC Drama Camp this summer: a playful, creative experience designed to help children grow in confidence, connection, and emotional expression.Through storytelling, imaginative play, and drama games, children get to explore big feelings, build friendships, and step into magical roles like dragons, fairies, and heroes. Camp DetailsAges: 5–7Dates: July 6–10Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PMLocation: The Real Work’s Outdoor Play Space (Beaverton) Why...
April at The Real Work: Regulated doesn't mean calm, Congrats to Collin, and More
Hi parents and caregivers, We hope you're well this April! It's been such an intense few months both on individual levels for families, in the larger community, and in our world, that we want to focus in on some nurturance and hope here locally this month. We hope you're well. Read on for some reflections on regulation, learn how seasonal changes may affect kids and families, and sweet news about a teammate: Regulation is NOT calm! In this month’s feature, Dr. Emilee from our Occupational...
Resending: Summer Camps with The Real Work!
Hi Reader, We hope you are well! We are so pleased to present our first-ever summer programming here at The Real Work! I'm so proud to introduce two camps, one with Gabi Rookard, LCSW, RPT, Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, and one with drama therapist Mick James, LPCA! Learn more at the button below or via the attached flyers! Summer with The Real Work What else are we up to? Learn from us about the 8 Sensory Systems Learn April Special Interest Group: Engineering and Physics VIew Outdoor...
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...
We are a therapy collective with a specific focus on neurodiversity, early childhood, brain science, attachment, expressive arts and the power of play.