Bee Ready Series - Behaviour

Not a Therapist... But Therapeutic! How SNAs Can Create Safe and Regulating Relationships Without Providing Therapy

Webinar Description

One of the most common statements heard in schools is:

"SNAs are not therapists." This is absolutely true.

However, research over the last decade has become increasingly clear that every interaction with a child can either increase or reduce stress. While SNAs do not diagnose, assess or deliver clinical therapy, they can become one of the most important therapeutic adults in a child's school day.

Children rarely remember our behaviour plans.
They remember how we made them feel.

This webinar explores what it means to be therapeutic without being a therapist. Drawing on current research in neuroscience, attachment, trauma-informed education, co-regulation and positive relationships, participants will learn how everyday interactions can support emotional safety, resilience and learning while remaining fully within the SNA role. The webinar will help SNAs recognise that therapeutic practice is not a programme - it is a way of being with children.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this webinar participants will be able to:

1. Distinguish between therapy and therapeutic practice, understanding professional boundaries within the SNA role.
2. Explain how relationships, emotional safety and co-regulation influence children's behaviour, wellbeing and learning using current research.
3. Apply practical therapeutic approaches including co-regulation, validation, unconditional positive regard, emotional coaching and attuned communication.
4. Reflect on their own interactions and identify small everyday moments that can become powerful therapeutic opportunities.

Facilitator: Magdalena Landziak

Magdalena is an advocate for special and inclusive education and an experienced SNA, with over 10 years of experience supporting children with additional needs in primary school settings. She works as a tutor delivering QQI Level 6 SNA courses and provides CPD training for various Education Centres across Ireland. Recognising the need for ongoing, tailored support for SNAs, Magdalena founded SNA Academy to deliver practical, research-informed training and resources. She is also the Editor of AMYGDALA - the First National Magazine for SNAs, sharing insights, strategies, and inspiration to enhance inclusive practice in schools. Recently, she launched her own podcast, From the Bottom of My Heart, creating a space for meaningful conversations, inspiring stories and diverse perspectives on education, inclusion, wellbeing and life experiences. Magdalena holds a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education and SEN, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate (level 9) in 21st Century Teaching and Learning from Trinity College Dublin. She is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and equally dedicated to sharing her knowledge, experience and practical strategies with SNAs and educators to promote meaningful inclusion and strengthen everyday practice. Through her social media platform, @sna_zone, she shares practical strategies, educational resources, professional insights and inspiration to support SNAs and educators in their everyday practice.