Training

Learning, together

Sarah delivers a range of evidence-informed training programmes. Each is grounded in attachment, developmental trauma and what the science of secure relationships actually asks of us.

Most training is delivered in person, with online options for some groups. Sessions can be arranged for an existing team, fostering service, school, or as part of an open programme — and Sarah is happy to adapt content to the specific needs of the group.

For Parents, Carers & Family

Training to support your understanding

Programmes for anyone parenting a child who would like some additional support

2 hour overview

Theraplay® Awareness Session

A two-hour training developed by Sarah as a brief overview of Theraplay® - what to expect in treatment and a little about the theory underpinning the model — A helpful introduction delivered to parents and others in the system around the child

6-8 hours

Everyday Theraplay® - Parenting with Joyful Connection

A 6-8 hour training programme developed by the Theraplay® Institute for any parent or carers of children, supporting an understanding of the importance of play in the child's development. Usually delivered over one or two days

15 hours · 5 × 3hr sessions

Nurture and Play

A fun, relationship-building programme designed by Lampi & Salo to help parents and their little ones (ages 0–5) tune into each other's feelings and grow closer. Usually delivered in five three-hour sessions — playful, warm, and grounded in what very young children need from us.

Therapeutic Parenting Programmes

Training for the people who hold the child

Programmes for adoptive parents, foster carers, kinship carers, and anyone parenting a child whose early experiences have shaped how they connect.

3 hour overview

Recovery from Developmental Trauma

A three-hour training developed as an overview of the impact of developmental trauma on children's attachment to their caregivers — and the therapeutic models commonly used in Ireland to support recovery. A good first step for parents and carers wanting to make sense of what is happening with their child.

18 hours · 6 × 3hr sessions

Foundations for Attachment

An 18-hour group programme developed by Dr Kim Golding for parents and carers of children who have experienced developmental trauma, usually delivered in six three-hour sessions. The programme builds a shared understanding of attachment and trauma, and equips parents with tools they can carry into the daily moments.

Also valuable for professionals working with children.

42 hours · 12 × 3.5hr sessions

Therapeutic Parenting with PACE

A 42 hour group programme developed by Deborah Page and Rachel Swann for parents and carers of children who have experienced developmental trauma, usually delivered in twelve 3.5 hour sessions. Shifting to a trauma-informed PACE approach, this programme teaches practical strategies and co-regulation tools.

54 hours · 3 × 6 sessions

Nurturing Attachments

A 54-hour group programme for adoptive parents, foster parents and kinship carers developed by Dr. Kim Golding, usually delivered in three blocks of six three-hour sessions. A longer, deeper journey — designed to grow confident, reflective, therapeutic parenting over time.

For Professionals

Training for practitioners and teams

For therapists, social workers, residential and educational staff — and anyone whose work brings them into relationship with children affected by trauma.

Theraplay®

Theraplay® Training

Sarah is the identified Theraplay® trainer for Northern Ireland.

All Theraplay® Level 1 and Group Theraplay® training in Northern Ireland is organised by Psychological Pathways. In the Republic of Ireland, all open Theraplay® training is organised by Solamh.

psychologicalpathways.com →
solamh.com →

For bespoke Theraplay® training for your team in the West of Ireland, contact Sarah directly.

15 hour training

Working Collaboratively with Parents

A 15-hour training developed for social work teams to support professionals to work with families who find it hard to engage. Practical, reflective, and rooted in the realities of statutory and voluntary work with hard-to-reach families.

Booking & delivery

How training works

For Theraplay® training in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, please use the partner links above. For everything else — bespoke training, Working Collaboratively with Parents, Nurture and Play, Nurturing Attachments and Foundations for Attachment — contact Sarah directly to discuss dates, venue and group size.

Interested in training your team or group?

Tell Sarah a little about the people you'd be bringing, what they're working with, and what you're hoping the training will do — and she'll come back with options.

Enquire about training