Think-Feel-Do sensory bears

• How to use the Think-Feel-Do sensory bear to facilitate storytelling and emotional expression
• Techniques to engage with the Think-Feel-Do Bears with PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy)
• Ways to personalise and adapt the Think-Feel-Dobear for diverse needs and preferences
• Strategies for using the bear as a conversation starter and regulation aid in therapeutic settings
• Practical applications of the Think-Feel-Do sensory bear in child protection, out of home care, trauma work, and emotional literacy.

It is a fabric bear filled with rice or beads and decorated with symbols representing thinking (brain), feeling (heart), and doing (hands). Their creation was inspired by storytelling and the critical importance of co-regulation.

You can read more about Think-Feel-Do bears in this toolkit.

Participants are encouraged to bring paper, cardboard, scissors and materials to make marks on the paper. If you have a Think Feel Do Bear already, bring them along! We will be practicing in small groups using the paper/card or material bears.

No prior experience is required, and an interest in trauma-informed tools and creative approaches to therapy is recommended.

“The training was really interesting and completely relevant to my role.” Training participant.

Karen has been a dedicated Therapeutic Life Story Work (TLSW) practitioner since 2017, bringing her expertise to both government and not-for-profit sectors. Currently working with Settlement Services International in their multicultural foster care program, Karen is exploring innovative ways to adapt TLSW for culturally diverse communities, ensuring this transformative work reaches those who need it most.

In 2018, Karen completed Richard Rose’s Professional Diploma in TLSW, solidifying her commitment to this field. That same year, she co-presented at the Australian Childhood Trauma Conference alongside Amy Payne and Natalia O’Keefe on “Think.Feel.Do. Using Sensory Bears in Therapeutic Life Story Work”. Karen has since shared her knowledge widely, presenting to NSW Department of Communities and Justice, TLSW Professional Diploma students, and hosting TLSWa Drop-In sessions. In 2024, she took her expertise global, presenting “Cultural Consciousness in Practice” at the TLSWi conference in London, further highlighting her passion for inclusive and culturally aware therapeutic practices.

Karen’s contributions extend beyond practice; as part of the communications team for TLSW Australia, she plays a vital role in spreading awareness and fostering community within the TLSW network. Her work exemplifies a commitment to innovation, cultural sensitivity, and the power of storytelling to heal and connect.

Amy Payne (she/they) is a psychologist with over 20 years of experience specialising in trauma. As the director of As Above So Below Therapeutic Services on Dharug Land in the place known as Australia, Amy strives to create safe spaces for healing and storytelling for all she works with.

After being in the 2017-2018 TLSW Diploma cohort, Amy was developing the Adult Therapeutic Life Story Work (TLSW) model from 2018 and this was then endorsed by Richard Rose in 2023. They share their expertise through consultation, supervision, and training. They have presented at conferences in Australia and internationally, showcasing their innovative tools and approaches. Amy has also shared their knowledge and practice, running workshops with Government and Agency practitioners, TLSW Professional Diploma students, and hosting TLSW Australia drop-in sessions

Co-founder of Think Feel Do Sensory Bears and co-creator of the TLSW Practice Pocket Cards (Karmy Cards), Amy blends creativity with practice. As an EMDR Therapist, trained in Relational-Integrative EMDR, and a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) Practitioner, Amy integrates holistic, trauma-informed methods into their work.

As the social media lead for TLSW Australia, Amy fosters community and spreads awareness. Known for their ‘PACEful’ approach, Amy’s work centres on connection, creativity, and community.

• You will receive a zoom link to access the live classroom at least 48 hours before the live classroom takes place.
• Our Live Classrooms are delivered via Zoom. If you haven’t used Zoom before, or need a refresher, take a look at this guidance. If you are planning on attending via a work device, to ensure access is not blocked you may need to seek permission in advance.

• Already a member? This Live Classroom is included in Creative Life Story Work members’ 12 free events per year.
• Not yet a member? This Live Classroom costs £50 for non-members.
• Interested in becoming a member? Find out about becoming a member here.