Courtney A. Brandon, LPC, MHSP, RPT

05/03/2026

TNAPT has some great workshops planned this year! Can’t wait to see my fellow play therapists at some of these events!

01/20/2025

Want to see something amazing?

Pause.

Most parenting challenges eventually disappear without you changing a thing. Time heals a lot, doesn't it? Sleep struggles. Picky eating phases. Phases of more independence than you're ready for. Seek additional support if you need it, but the little things? They'll often be a thing of the past before you know it.

The days are long but the years are short. ❤️

01/20/2025

As we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., let us take his words to heart. With the pursuit of ultimate justice and unlimited kindness, good will win in the end, even if temporarily defeated. We cannot give up the fight for what is right for all.

11/07/2024

This graphic is adapted from the work of Dr. Bruce Perry and summaries his state-dependent brain model. It reflects the hierarchy of the brain's development and the areas in control in the sequence of engagement (also known as the Three R's).

The order of the Three R's is important when we are dysregulated. First, we must address sensory needs and regulate the autonomic nervous system. Then we an relate emotionally through physical hugs, words to convey understanding of feelings, and emotional safety. Finally, engaging the pre-frontal cortex through reasoning, questions, and reflection.

In brain development, the brainstem and autonomic functions are our most primitive and the pre-frontal cortex develops last and continues developing until age 25. This is why is it so important to help kids regulate their senses first through attunement and co-regulation, and to not expect as much verbal communication and understanding from kids when they are dysregulated.

Because a child's nervous system is immature, they often have sensory meltdowns more often than older adolescents and adults. Even more reason to be aware of children's sensory and emotional needs as we are helping to empower them to one day self-soothe and regulate their own nervous systems.

Reminder: Social media is not a replacement for mental healthcare. Posts are for entertainment, educational, and empowerment purposes only. Follow for more playful posts on child and family mental health and personal development.

11/07/2024