Understanding the root of long-standing challenges is the first step to moving past them.
Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns that originate in the brainstem and are present from birth. They are designed to be active in infancy and then integrate — become "absorbed" by the developing nervous system — as the brain matures. When these reflexes fail to integrate, they can remain active into childhood and adulthood, subtly interfering with movement, behavior, attention, emotional regulation, and nervous system function.
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Retained primitive reflexes are more common than most people realize, and they can underlie a wide range of challenges — from attention difficulties and sensory sensitivities to anxiety, coordination issues, and struggles with emotional regulation. The assessment is the first step in identifying what may be at the root of these patterns.
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Holly conducts a structured assessment to identify which primitive reflexes may still be active. This involves observing specific movement patterns, postural responses, and neurological indicators. Results are discussed in detail — what was found, what it may be connected to, and what options exist for supporting integration going forward.
What Is Possible
Root cause clarity
Identifies neurological patterns that may be driving long-standing challenges.
Coordination & movement
Addresses motor patterns that affect physical coordination.
Improved regulation
Reflex integration supports the nervous system's ability to self-regulate.
Emotional resilience
Nervous system maturation supports emotional stability and flexibility.
Better focus & attention
Retained reflexes are linked to attention difficulties — integration can help.
Support for all ages
Assessment is appropriate for children and adults alike.
How Holly works with you in the Primitive Reflex Assessment
Holly approaches the Primitive Reflex Assessment with a combination of clinical knowledge and genuine curiosity about each person she works with. She finds this one of the most illuminating assessments available — particularly for clients (or parents of clients) who have sensed for years that something wasn't quite connecting, but have never been able to identify what or why.
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The assessment is observational and movement-based — Holly guides you or your child through a series of specific postures and movements that reveal the status of each reflex. She is warm and patient throughout, particularly with younger clients, and creates an environment where the process feels exploratory rather than clinical or evaluative. There is no pass or fail here — only information.
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The debrief conversation at the end of the assessment is where Holly's depth really shows. She takes time to explain what was found, what it may be connected to in terms of the patterns and challenges you've described, and what integration work might look like going forward. Clients often leave this session feeling a profound sense of relief — not just because they have answers, but because those answers come with a path forward that feels genuinely hopeful.
