Become certified in NVR for Brain-based Disabilities!
The Applied Training Program on Nonviolent Resistance for Brain-Based Disabilities is a four-day hybrid training designed for allied mental health professionals working with children, youth, and families experiencing complex developmental and behavioural challenges.
This program provides an adapted model of Nonviolent Resistance (NVR) that explicitly integrates neurodevelopmental science, trauma-informed care, and systemic practice. It is designed for clinical contexts in which standard behavioural or parenting approaches are insufficient or ineffective.
What This Training Includes
This is a four-day applied training program combining live instruction and self-paced learning:
- 9 hours of asynchronous online learning (Available on April 10)Â
- 5 Pre-recorded modules
- Completed at the participant’s own pace
- Hosted on a secure training platform
- 9 hours of live online training (April 29, 30, and May 1)
- Three consecutive morningsÂ
- Three hours per morning
- Delivered live by Dr. Maude Champagne
- 6-month follow-up group consultation with Dr Maude Champagne
- Two date options offered
- Case-based clinical discussions
- Integration of learning into real-world practice
- Certification upon completion
Participants who complete all components of the program will receive a:
Certificate in Applied Nonviolent Resistance for Brain-Based Disabilities
Graduates will also be invited to continue their learning through a Community of Practice in Canada, supporting ongoing clinical reflection, peer consultation, and professional development.
Module 1 – Foundations of Nonviolent Resistance
Introduce the theoretical foundations, philosophy, and clinical rationale of Nonviolent Resistance (NVR).
Content
- Origins and evolution of Nonviolent Resistance
- Core principles: non-escalation, presence, refusal of coercion
- Understanding power struggles and escalation cycles
- NVR as a systemic and relational intervention
 Learning Outcomes
- Explain the core principles of Nonviolent Resistance
- Describe why control-based approaches often escalate conflict
- Identify the role of caregiver presence in reducing escalation
Module 2 – Core NVR Tools and Clinical Strategies
Provide practical tools that clinicians can use to support families implementing NVR.
Content
- The Announcement: purpose, structure, and clinical considerations
- Sit-ins and vigilant presence
- Building and maintaining supporter networks
- Reconciliation gestures and relationship repair
Learning Outcomes
- Apply key NVR tools in counselling and group settings
- Coach caregivers through early implementation challenges
- Recognize common pitfalls in NVR application
Module 3 – Neurodevelopmental and Disability-Informed Adaptations
Adapt NVR for brain-based disabilities and neurodevelopmental differences.
 Content
- Understanding brain-based disabilities and behavioural expression
- Adapting communication, expectations, and pacing
- Co-regulation versus compliance-focused approaches
- Ethical considerations in disability-adapted practice
Learning Outcomes
- Differentiate behavioural non-compliance from neurodevelopmental challenges
- Adapt NVR strategies to cognitive and regulatory capacities
- Apply ethically sound disability-informed interventions
Module 4 – Trauma- and Attachment-Informed NVR Practice
Integrate trauma-informed and attachment-informed principles into NVR interventions.
Content
- Impact of trauma on regulation, behaviour, and relationships
- Attachment patterns and escalation dynamics
- Safety, predictability, and relational repair
- Integrating trauma and attachment frameworks into NVR planning
Learning Outcomes
- Formulate cases using trauma- and attachment-informed lenses
- Adjust NVR interventions to support relational safety
- Recognize signs of overwhelm and retraumatization
Module 5 – AFCCA: Aggression Toward Family and Caregivers
Address AFCCA and apply NVR to families experiencing aggression toward caregivers.
Content
- Understanding AFCCA patterns and impacts on families
- Intersection of AFCCA, trauma, and brain-based disabilities
- NVR strategies for high-risk and entrenched aggression
- Protecting caregiver safety and well-being
Learning Outcomes
- Identify key features of AFCCA presentations
- Formulate NVR interventions specific to AFCCA cases
- Support caregivers in reclaiming safety and well-being
Live Training Sessions
Three consecutive mornings of live training, three hours each.
Delivered by Dr. Maude Champagne.
Live Day 1 – Applied NVR Foundations
- Review and integration of asynchronous modules
- Demonstration and practice of core NVR tools
- Small-group clinical discussions
Live Day 2 – Neurodevelopment, Trauma, and Attachment
- Complex case formulation
- Adapting NVR for neurodevelopmental and trauma-related needs
- Group consultation and reflective practice
Live Day 3 – AFCCA and Sustaining Change
- In-depth AFCCA case studies
- Supporting caregiver well-being and endurance
- Long-term planning and implementation strategies
Six-Month Follow-Up Consultation
Participants will attend a group consultation session approximately six months after the live training. This session focuses on integrating learning into practice, addressing implementation challenges, and refining NVR interventions based on real-world experience.
Early bird promo
$1100
Enroll early and save with our Early Bird offer until March 31, 2026. After the deadline, the course returns to the regular price of $1,200.
Maude Champagne, RSW, MSW, PhD
This course is given by Maude Champagne, a clinician, researcher, and trainer with extensive experience supporting families affected by brain-based disabilities, trauma, and high-risk or aggressive behaviours. Her work integrates neuroscience, clinical practice, and lived experience, with a strong emphasis on applied and ethical intervention.
Still have questions? Contact me
