Not Moving Forward with Therapy Right Now?

You’re Still in the Right Place.

We understand. Starting therapy is a big decision—and it’s not always the right time.

  • Maybe you’re feeling unsure about whether your child needs therapy.

  • Maybe you’re overwhelmed by logistics or already stretched too thin.

  • Maybe you're still deciding what kind of support would be the most helpful.

Whatever your reason, we want you to know: pausing or postponing therapy doesn’t mean you're failing your child. In fact, honoring your own capacity and moving at a pace that feels right is a sign of wisdom and care.

This page is here to offer support, clarity, and next steps—whether you revisit therapy later or take a different path entirely.

When Is It Helpful to Seek Therapy?

Therapy can be beneficial at any point—but here are some signs it might be especially helpful to reach out for support:

  • Your child seems frequently dysregulated, anxious, or withdrawn

  • You’re seeing behaviors that feel confusing or extreme for their age

  • Big life changes (like divorce, medical issues, or school challenges) are taking a toll

  • Your child struggles to make or keep friends

  • You find yourself unsure how to help, even though you're trying everything

  • You're feeling burned out, stuck, or overwhelmed as a parent

At The Real Work, our approach to therapy is rooted in relational neuroscience, sensory integration, and a deep respect for each child’s unique wiring. Whether it’s play therapy, occupational therapy, or parent consultation, we start by building safety and connection—because growth only happens when kids feel seen and supported.

Why It Might Not Be the Right Time

Sometimes, even when support is needed, it’s just not the right season for therapy. You might be:

  • In survival mode as a family (financially, logistically, or emotionally)

  • Between providers or unsure what kind of therapy is the best fit

  • Already receiving other support and want to avoid overloading your child

  • Just not ready—and that’s okay.

If that’s you, we hope the resources below will meet you where you are. There’s no pressure, no judgment—just tools and encouragement for your journey.

Resources You Can Use Right Now

Learn More About Play Therapy and OT

Local Providers and Referrals

If you're still seeking support, but we're not the right fit right now, here are a few local options we trust:

  • Columbia Pediatric Therapy (Cedar Mill and Vancouver)– Offers speech, OT

  • Empower Psychological Services – Specializing in psychological assessment for neurodivergent kids and adults

  • The Hope Connection (N. Beaverton) – Affordable therapy options for families

Want personalized referrals? Reach out to us anytime! We’re happy to help connect you to the right place.

Podcasts & Books for Parents

Sometimes a podcast episode or good book can shift everything. These resources are thoughtful, practical, and affirming:

Podcasts

  • Unruffled by Janet Lansbury (gentle parenting support for big behaviors)

  • The OT Butterfly by Laura Petix (sensory strategies from a neurodivergent OT)

  • Tilt Parenting by Debbie Reber (raising differently wired kids)

Books

  • The Explosive Child by Ross Greene

  • The Whole-Brain Child by Dan Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

  • Balanced & Barefoot by Angela Hanscom

  • What Happened to You? by Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey

We’re Still Here If You Need Us Later

Your spot on our 8-week list may have closed, but you're always welcome to return. If your needs shift and you're ready to explore services again, reach out. You don’t need to start from scratch.

In the meantime, we’re cheering you on. You’re doing brave, thoughtful work just by showing up for your child with curiosity and care.