Behavioral & Self-Regulation Challenges
When a child’s emotions or behaviors start to feel “too big,” it’s often a sign they’re struggling to regulate what’s happening inside their body and brain. We help children develop the tools to manage those big feelings, transitions, and daily routines with confidence.
Challenging behaviors—meltdowns, avoidance, outbursts, or shutting down—are often a child’s way of communicating overwhelm, not defiance.
Difficulties with self-regulation can stem from challenges in sensory processing, emotional awareness, communication, or executive functioning. When those systems aren’t balanced, it can make even everyday tasks—like dressing, schoolwork, or mealtimes—feel like too much.
At The Therapy Collaborative, we look beyond behavior to understand why it’s happening and teach children how to identify, manage, and express what they’re feeling.
Our goal is to help children recognize what their body is telling them, understand their triggers, and develop strategies to feel calm, focused, and in control.
Occupational Therapy may focus on:
Sensory processing and emotional regulation
Building body awareness and interoception (“how does my body feel?”)
Developing calming and alerting strategies that work for each child
Creating routines and environmental supports that promote regulation
Strengthening flexibility, problem-solving, and transitions
Speech Therapy may focus on:
Expressing emotions and needs with words
Understanding social cues and communication during stress
Building confidence and clarity in communication
Reducing frustration-based behaviors related to communication breakdowns
Signs a Child May Be Struggling with Regulation
You may notice that your child:
Has frequent meltdowns or emotional outbursts
Becomes overwhelmed in noisy, busy, or unpredictable environments
Has difficulty following directions or switching activities
Withdraws or “shuts down” when upset
Struggles with sleep, attention, or transitions
Reacts strongly to sensations like clothing, sounds, or textures
We focus on helping children understand what’s happening in their body and brain—and build strategies that make them feel safe and successful in all environments.
By combining sensory-based therapy, emotional coaching, and communication support, we help children learn to regulate from the inside out—not just “behave better.”
Parenting a child who struggles with regulation can feel exhausting and confusing. We work closely with families to share practical, real-world tools that make home life calmer and more predictable—while also empowering parents to respond with confidence and understanding.
Every behavior is communication. Let’s help your child find calm, confidence, and connection again.