therealworkpdx

03/03/2026

Slowing down and noticing difficult emotions is an essential part of regulation for kids and parents alike. Our latest blog talks about: ✨ The Missing Step in Emotional Regulation ✨Learn with us about why we might avoid slowing down and truly noticing what’s going on inside our bodies, and why we might do this with our kids as well. 💭 When we override our internal signals, we disconnect from ourselves — but slowing down and accepting them helps us respond more intentionally to ourselves and our kids. Read the full conversation on the blog (link in bio!).

03/01/2026

Newsletter is out!

We are a therapy collective with a specific focus on neurodiversity, early childhood, brain science, attachment, expressive arts and the power of play.

02/21/2026

WE MADE A THING! Our first paid visual based on our knowledge from DIR/Floortime, Developmental Neuroscience, and Occupational Therapy.

This cute and research-backed visual works to help you understand the 8 sensory systems and to answer a common question: Is my child having sensory issues, or is this just “difficult behavior?” They seem overwhelmed, overstimulated, and can’t stay regulated at school or home. What is going on?

There are 8 sensory systems, and they all have specific jobs! Kids who have sensory differences often fall on one or the other end of a spectrum. They may be Sensory Craving/Seeking, or Sensory Avoiding. Take a look at the following signs, and if they are familiar, consider taking a look at our newest resource on the 8 sensory systems to learn more about what your child might be experiencing in one or more system, plus get some activities to do with them.

As always, consult an Occupational Therapist if you have concerns for your child, as this content is purely education and not therapy nor a diagnosis!

A child who is sensory craving/seeking:

seems to be constantly moving, jumping climbing, crashing

may speak loudly even when asked to lower voice

loves loud music, bright lights, stimulating environments

has a hard time giving personal space, might get too close to others or even hug or bump or crash when not appropriate

can be physically aggressive

might engage in risk-taking like jumping off things, running off

this profile might be mistaken for adhd or trauma reaction

A child who is Sensory Avoiding

May meltdown often and it may seem like they melt down for no reason

Has intense preferences around clothing, tags, seams in socks, textures of fabrics, wearing shoes.

Might be “picky eater” or avoid foods with specific textures or smells

might startle or be afraid of sudden noises like sirens, vaccuum cleaner, blow dryers

May be highly anxious

02/21/2026

Click through each of the 8 sensory systems to learn how it works, what difficulties look like, and activities to do with your child.
Perfect for parents or child providers!

https://realwork.kit.com/products/sensorysystembundle

02/16/2026

High masking children are often described as mature, compliant, and self-controlled.

But appearing functional is not the same as being well.

Children who camouflage heavily may:
• Hide confusion
• Suppress movement
• Avoid asking for help
• Monitor their tone and facial expressions
• Work intensely to avoid being “too much”

Over time, chronic masking can contribute to anxiety, shame, and autistic burnout.

If your child crashes after school, it may be nervous system fatigue rather than oppositional behavior.

Our latest Monthly Magic Newsletter explores masking in children and includes a practical after school regulation menu to help families respond with support instead of escalation. Learn more at the link in bio

02/06/2026

March Special Interest Group for Neurodivergent Kids! At this time, the group is open for neurodivergent kids ages 5-12. Finally… a space where your kid just gets to be their neurodivergent self. No agenda, no “goals,” no skill-building… just a safe space for neurodivergent kids to hyperfocus on the thing they love with other kids who are just as passionate as they are about their beloved special interest.

02/05/2026

February is here, and our Drama Therapy Group starts March 1.

If your child could benefit from practicing social and emotional skills in a creative, low-pressure environment, this group may be a strong fit. Groups are kept small, and enrollment is intentional.

Once spots are filled, registration will close.

Learn more or reach out now while there is still time to join.
https://realworkwellness.com/drama-therapy-group

02/05/2026

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
• feel anxious or overwhelmed in group settings
• have a hard time using words when emotions are big
• benefit from creative, body-based ways of learning

Drama therapy supports emotional expression, social learning, and confidence through storytelling, pretend play, and movement. Children are not asked to perform or act for an audience. Participation is flexible and guided with care.

The group is facilitated by Mick James, who creates a warm, structured, and developmentally supportive environment where young children can practice social and emotional skills at their own pace.

The group begins March 1, and enrollment is limited.

Learn more and see if this feels like a fit for your child:
https://realworkwellness.com/drama-therapy-group

02/03/2026

Spring outdoor groups are here with NO enrollment free and now with weekly pricing!

01/22/2026

Monthly Magic is published for The Real Work!

Learn from some of the best and most cutting edge child therapists practicing in a thriving collective in Portland Oregon!

01/21/2026

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 and sex-positive care. They integrate traditional talk therapy with expressive and drama-based approaches, offering teens more than one way to understand and work with what they’re experiencing, especially when talking feels hard.

Mick may be a good fit for your teen if they are:

Struggling with body image, food, or self-esteem concerns

Exploring gender identity, sexuality, or other aspects of who they are

Feeling emotionally shut down, overwhelmed, or unsure how to express feelings

Carrying a lot of pressure, shame, or perfectionism

Resistant to traditional talk therapy but open to creative or experiential approaches

Needing a therapist who is affirming, nonjudgmental, and attuned to safety and consent

Mick is currently accepting new adolescent and adult clients. If you’re curious whether working with Mick might be a good fit, you’re welcome to schedule a free initial inquiry call through our website. As always, we’re happy to help you think through clinician fit and next steps.

01/20/2026

Next Special Interest Group: Dinos! 2/8 3:00-4:00 at The Real Work: 4775 SW Watson Ave
Sign up at link in bio or on our website!

What is the format of the groups?
There will be a facilitator present (Gabi) as well as 1-2 volunteers associated with the Real Work. Group gatherings will be one hour in length. There will be some materials provided related to the monthly topic, and your child is encouraged to bring their own items to show and tell too! Parents and/or caregivers will be asked to stay present for the duration of the group.

As described above, this will be a low pressure space to simply hang out, connect, and hyperfocus in the company of other neurodivergent kids. The facilitators will not be “teaching skills” but skills may be learned naturally. The facilitators will be there to host the groups, connect and interact with kids who would like to, and provide opportunities for kids to connect with each other when appropriate.

Currently, we are capping group meet ups at 5 families.

Learn more about the group facilitator, Gabi, on her bio here!

What are the days/times of groups?
Our special interest groups are hosted once/month. They take place every SECOND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH from 3-4 pm. They are one hour in length.

What are the topics of groups?
Every 3-6 months, we will host a different “series” of special interest topics. Within each series, there will be a more specific topic of the month. We are hoping this will allow kids who have very niche special interests to connect, while also offering the opportunity to attend the whole series for those interested.

Right now we are in our SCIENCE series!

Other topics to look forward to include video games, vehicles, and creating/building… you can sign up to be notified when the next series of special interest groups is announced!

We decided which topics to offer based on your feedback (thank you!) If you’d like to share what your child’s special interest is to inform future topics, you can email Gabi at gabi@realworkwellness.com.