Trauma-Informed Resources · TI-01

A Flexible Window for Noticing Activation

Use a flexible metaphor to notice changing levels of activation and identify supports that may help you move toward enough steadiness for the moment.

Clinician-created · specialist review required

Client group: Teens and adults with a licensed trauma-informed clinician10-20 minutesGuided worksheetAdult professional use

For clinician-facilitated use

This is a professional resource, not a child-facing online service. A licensed clinician or other qualified adult must determine suitability, explain and adapt the activity, and supervise its use. Do not direct a child to access this webpage independently or enter client information.

Download for facilitated useView collection

The full-resolution WebP includes print-safe margins and should be downloaded by an adult professional. Read the guidance below before using the page.

How to use it

With support, adjust the zones so they reflect your experience rather than a fixed model.
If you want, add signs you notice and supports that sometimes help in each area.
Draw more than one return path, including pausing, leaving, or seeking support.
Stop if the metaphor feels inaccurate or activating.

Reflection prompts

What tells you that your level of activation may be shifting?
Which support feels most available or least demanding right now?

Facilitator guidance

Present the window as an optional, changeable metaphor rather than a diagnosis, target state, or measure of success. Collaboratively define language, validate protective responses, and prioritize present-moment safety over completing the page.

Adaptations & accessibility

Rename, resize, add, or remove zones.
Use colors, objects, gestures, or AAC instead of body-language labels.
Complete only the supports section or use a separate blank page.

Professional-use review

Enhanced licensed trauma-specialist review required before use. Review for dissociation, shame, body-focused activation, cultural meaning, and the need for individualized stabilization planning.

This clinician-created resource is published for professional evaluation. Before client use, the treating clinician or other qualified adult must determine whether it is appropriate and complete every specialist, accessibility, safeguarding, and local-policy review named above. Publication does not represent individualized clinical approval.