Consultancy

Karen O'Neill

Tara McDonald

Working with PIP Solutions

Karen & Tara work in partnership with organisations to design and deliver engaging, evidence-informed learning experiences that inspire meaningful change.

From keynote presentations, workshops and speaking events to bespoke training programmes tailored to your organisation’s unique needs, we combine expertise in relational and trauma-informed practice with practical, real-world strategies. Whether supporting education, health, social care or community organisations, our aim is to equip professionals with knowledge and confidence that creates lasting impact.

Current Projects

Partnership with Fostering Connections:

We are proud to partner with Fostering Connections to deliver: A Professional Development Series of Workshops for Adoptive, Foster and Kinship Carers: Understanding the Child Behind the Behaviour: A Brain Body Approach for Foster Carers

This accredited online programme has been designed by Karen & Tara to equip carers with a deeper understanding of how early adversity, trauma, attachment and neurobiology shape children’s behaviour.

Drawing on current research and our extensive clinical and practice experience, the series bridges theory and practical application, giving carers evidence-informed strategies they can use every day to build safety, connection and resilience.

Across ten interactive workshops, participants explore:

  • Early Beginnings: The Effects of Trauma Before Birth

  • Connected Brains: Mirror Neurons and Co-Regulation

  • Nurture and the Nervous System

  • Shield of Shame: Understanding and Supporting Children Affected by Toxic Shame

  • Understanding Toileting Challenges: Supporting Foster Children with Sensitive Care

  • When Food Tells a Story: Understanding Eating Behaviours in Foster Care

  • Safe to Sleep: Understanding Why Sleep Matters

  • Building Brains and Bonds Through Play

  • Introducing The Needs Paradox®

  • Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others: Self-Care for Foster Carers

This programme reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality, trauma-informed training that translates complex neuroscience into practical, compassionate approaches for those caring for children who have experienced adversity.

Through our partnership with Fostering Connections, we are helping carers strengthen their confidence, deepen their understanding, and create the relational environments children need to heal, grow and thrive.

https://www.fostering-connections.com/

Past Speaking Events

PESI: 2026 Kids Trauma Conference”. 23-24th April 2026 A two-day training event focused on child trauma, neuroscience, attachment, and play-based interventions.

PTUK Conference ‘Working with Aggression and Intensity in Play Therapy. On Saturday 21st June 2025, Karen and Tara presented a session on ‘Aggression as a Trauma Response’

BACP Children, Young Persons and Family Conference ‘Systems around the child’: Saturday 15th March 2025. Karen and Tara presented a session on ‘Parental engagement in action: Utilising the parent system in child therapy’

BACP Children, Young Persons and Family Conference 18th March 2023: ‘Linking Principles of Polyvagal Theory to Clinical Work with Children and Young People’

Consultancy

PIP Solutions offers consultancy expertise to help organizations and individuals navigate complex challenges with a relational and trauma-informed approach. We provide tailored guidance, drawing on extensive knowledge and experience to support growth, enhance understanding, and develop effective strategies. Whether you need assistance in program development, training, or organizational support, we work collaboratively with you to achieve sustainable solutions that foster positive change. Let PIP Solutions Training and Consultancy help you build a stronger, more resilient foundation for success.

We have provided bespoke services for the following organizations:

  • Fostering Connections
  • Trauma-Informed Partnership: Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
  • Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse (CARA): Essex

Supervision

PIP Solutions offers expert supervision services designed to support the professional growth and development of counsellors, psychotherapists, and other mental health practitioners. Our supervision is rooted in a relational and trauma-informed approach, providing a safe and reflective space for your staff to explore their practice, navigate challenges, and enhance their skills. Whether your organisation is seeking guidance on client work, ethical dilemmas, or personal development, PIP Solutions Training and Consultancy is here to offer tailored support that fosters confidence, competence, and continued professional growth.

Next Steps

Contact us to find out how we can support your organisation. Simply complete the form below, and we will respond within 72 hours to discuss your needs and explore how PIP Solutions Training and Consultancy can assist you.