Challenging behavior in neurologically diverse children and adults is a symptom of deeper issues—not simply a problem to be controlled, contained, and managed. In this session, we will explore how physical and emotional trauma, including physical illness and imbalances, can be at the root of challenging behaviors and how, as direct supporters, we can help through our interactions, our communicative presence, and a healing environment and lifestyle.

OBJECTIVES

• Identify the prevalence and range of traumatic experiences in individuals with neurological differences
• Develop a set of practical interventions to help calm a person in the moment and develop rapport
• Understand the need to explore the person's health, interpersonal communication, and sense of connection in their environment as part of the trauma treatment path

PRESENTER

Beth I Barol, PhD, LSW, BCB, NADD-CC Beth Barol has dedicated the past 50 years to serving and supporting people with intellectual, developmental, and neurological differences who have also experienced trauma and co-occurring mental health issues. She is passionate about person-centered approaches grounded in compassionate connections as part of the healing path, and uses Biographical Timelines to enhance that perspective when supporting complex individuals and their caregivers. Barol has held multiple roles: live-in house parent, agency administrator, Associate Dean and Director in Clinical Social Work, and clinician. She served as Clinical Director for the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs’ Statewide Training and Technical Assistance initiative for ten years. Barol is currently Co-Director of the Capacity Building Institute for Pennsylvania. She is trained in EMDR, biofeedback, and neurofeedback. In 2020, Barol received the NADD Earl L. Loschen, MD Award for Clinical Practice. When not at work, Barol walks, plays with loved ones, and tries to practice what she preaches regarding healthy living.

Enduring Modules - This module originated on 9/23/2026 and will remain available for CE credit through 12/30/2026

Criteria for Successful Completion:

Live attendees must join the zoom link via the LMS site, be logged in for a minimum of 90% of the session, and successfully complete the attestation and evaluation. Upon completion, a CE certificate for 1.25 contact hours will be awarded. 

Recordings of the live session will be made available within one week of the live date. 

Asynchronous attendees must utilize the LMS to obtain resource information (if available), view 100% of recording(s), complete all modules, and successfully complete the attestation and evaluation. Upon completion, a CE certificate for 1.25 contact hours will be awarded.

No relevant financial relationships exist for any individuals in a position to control content of this educational activity.

NOTE:

The Academy of Forensic Nursing is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.