Connection Beyond Words

Welcome to Connection Beyond Words!

I believe every child, including those with autism, has unique strengths and valuable lessons to share. I see them not as having a disability, but as individuals with translation and regulation needs. They deserve to be seen, loved, and respected, just like anyone else. My approach is to empower you, their teachers and them, by understanding their love languages, creating safety, and focusing on removing the barriers that hold back their growth.

But who am I? I am Katrien.
My dream is that all children can learn to communicate their needs, things they enjoy and what they don’t like. And that their communication (in whatever way) will be understood or at least accepted. My dream is that people learn to see when a child is showing their true happiness. That people can learn to see over time that everyone, also people that are non-verbal and have autism have something beautiful to bring to the world. As I do in every person I meet.

As a child I had difficulties communicating my needs. As I am a really sensitive person, but was not great at communicating in words. I have strengths in picking up things that most people do not pick up on. But it can be a heavy load on my nervous system too. Being in contact with my body and listen to it helps me find balance.

I finished studies with specialization Youth and Disability Care. In Belgium. And I worked with children and adults with special and complex needs all my life. In both Belgium and in the UK where I lived for some time, And now also here in the beautiful Portugal. If it was working as a caregiver, supervisor or as a teachers assistant, SEN-teacher, as a child minder,… I always loved the people I worked with and am always looking forward to meet each one of them again somewhere in life.

So if you want some support in any of the ways, I offer Services , feel free to contact me. Also for just a coffee to first get to know each other a bit and check how it feels. :)

You can also find tips and tricks written out in my blog or on the following pages.

Navigating overwhelm with connection.

If your child with autism shuts down or withdraws, it doesn’t mean they don’t want connection. They need to feel safe and connect at their own pace. I help parents and teachers navigate this journey with patience, insight, and practical tools. Find information here.

Unlock growth for non-verbal children with autism

Every child deserves to feel safe, understood or at least accepted, and supported. For non-verbal children with autism, creating the right environment makes all the difference. By focusing on communication, emotional security, and sensory needs, we help remove barriers that hold back their growth.

Let’s create a space where they can thrive with confidence. Find information here.

Creating safe spaces for growth

Feeling safe is the first step toward learning and independence. We help non-verbal children with autism build confidence by understanding their needs and supporting them where it matters most. Find information here.

Does your child with non-verbal autism hate going to school?

When children feel safe, they can thrive. By creating secure environments, together we can unlock the barriers holding back their growth, helping them explore, connect, and grow with confidence. Let’s work together to support your child’s journey and unlock their full potential! Learn more about fostering safety and growth

Is your non-verbal child truly feeling seen and loved?

Children with non-verbal autism express love in their own unique ways. If you’re a teacher, parent, or caregiver, understanding their love language is essential to building a positive and supportive relationship.

Let me guide you in strengthening your connection, so together we can create a loving environment where every child feels valued and has the space to thrive.

start making a lasting difference today!

Every child deserves to be heard

Every child with non-verbal autism has their own unique way of communicating. It can be challenging to truly understand what they need, but with the right support, we can help them feel heard, valued, and accepted. Let’s work together to create meaningful connections. Find more information here.