Posts by zoeymaster
Safety isn’t declared
When I first meet a client who doesn’t feel safe in their body or environment, one of the most important things I remember is this: telling someone they are safe can feel like gaslighting. If a person’s nervous system is dysregulated, or their history has taught them that safety isn’t reliable, simply saying “You’re safe”…
Read More✨It’s not about shutting it down
🔑 One of the most powerful things I teach my clients?How to have a relationship with their amygdala. ✨This little part of the brain is essential for survival—it scans for differences and sounds the alarm. But sometimes, it jumps in fast and strong, hijacking our response before the prefrontal cortex (our thinking brain) can weigh…
Read More💭 Let’s Talk About “Fading Support”
In some behavior programs, there’s a concept called “prompt fading” —It’s when adults slowly pull back support so a person “learns” to do things on their own. But here’s the thing 👇 ⸻ 🚨 For many of the kids I work with, this feels like abandonment.They can feel when support is being pulled — but…
Read MoreMacro vs. Micro
For years, I’ve worked to drive change at the macro level when my clients transition into supported living— advocating with social services, DSHS, and providing training and coaching to caregivers. Recently, though, I’ve shifted more focus to the micro level, helping my clients build resilience and better manage the challenges of supported living and the…
Read MoreWhat I Noticed: relaxed vs tired
Don’t assume yawning means tired.When I notice that my client has yawned, I pause and appreciate the yawn. Rarely does it mean that they are tired or not paying attention. Most of the time it means they are settling in and co-regulating with me. Neuroscience: Yawning is often associated with fatigue, but it can also be a…
Read MoreAccepting the Facts: Navigating Client Decisions
In my line of work, I’ve often encountered clients who find themselves stuck in a cycle of saying no to various requests or situations. How do we move forward? Well first we must “accept the facts” and then acknowledge out feelings and one crucial aspect of my approach is emphasizing that clients are not obligated…
Read MoreA regulated prediction vs. worry
In our journey towards self-regulation, making predictions can be a powerful tool. But here’s the thing: not all predictions are created equal. There’s a difference between a regulated prediction and plain old worry prediction. As a somatic behavioral coach, I often guide my clients through this distinction. Regulated prediction involves a thoughtful assessment of potential…
Read More“Listen to be impacted”
Over the recent weekend, I had the privilege of attending a workshop led by Marie Thouin, and she shared some insights that truly resonated with me: “listen to be impacted.” While we often hear about the importance of active listening – nodding, paraphrasing, and showing attentiveness – Marie emphasized something deeper. She urged us to…
Read MoreInnovating out of necessity
Did you know back in 2009 I started a side business helping neurodivergent children and adults use the iPad? Innovating out of necessity, I devised various solutions to make iPads more user-friendly for my clients. From crafting home button covers to designing gloves with the pointer finger exposed for precise interaction, every invention aimed to…
Read MoreAssume that I can Video
I love this sentiment. Let’s see more!
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