Date and Time: May 20, 2026, 7-8:30 pm
Chairpersons: Jocelynn B. Wallach, OT, MS, OTR, Esther Bertrand OT, MS, OTR
Location: Zoom - to be sent out the day before the event
Title: Anxiety-Informed Behavior Supports
Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Describe the relationship between anxiety and working memory.
2. Identify the three factors typically overlooked in behavior supports.
3. Describe why traditional breaks might not be effective for students with anxietyor trauma history.
4. Enumerate 1-2 strategies for reducing negative thinking toward writing.
Bio: Jessica Minahan, PhD, BCBA, is a licensed and board-certified behavior analyst, special educator, and best-selling author. With over 17 years of experience partnering with school systems globally, she is a recognized expert at the intersection of behavior, mental health, and learning. Dr. Minahan specializes in supporting students with trauma histories, anxiety-related challenges, and oppositional behaviors. An acclaimed international speaker and consultant, she is noted for translating complex mental health and behavioral concepts into actionable strategies for educational organizations. She is the author of The Behavior Code Companion (2014) and co-author of The Behavior Code (2012). Learn more at www.jessicaminahan.com.
References:
Frolek Clark, G., & Polichino, J. (2020). School Occupational Therapy: Staying Focused on Participation and Educational Performance. Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 14(1), 19–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/19411243.2020.1776187
Minahan, J. (2014) The Behavior Code Companion Strategies, Tools, and Interventionsfor Supporting Students with Anxiety-Related or Oppositional Behaviors. HarvardEducation Press, Cambridge, MA
Minahan, J., & Rappaport, N, MD., (2013) The Behavior Code A Practical Guide toUnderstanding and Teaching the Most Challenging Students
This event will be closed day before event. Please register by 4:00PM on 05/19/2026.
Please keep this copy for your own records and keep with your certificate. MAOT is not responsible for maintaining records for contact hours.