The brain consists of several functional layers that can be compared to gears in a vehicle. In situations of trauma, crisis, or any type of fear, the brain downshifts in an attempt to access functions that promote safety. While this is a helpful strategy, it can be very deleterious when activated frequently or when sustained over time. Strategies to help you identify downshifting in a timely manner, suggestions for ways to promote upshifting and for communicating congruently with someone who is in a downshifted state are presented in this 2006 NAD Teachers Convention PowerPoint presentation.