The Stephens–Sarlós Program – Individual and Group Mentor Training Course

The Stephens–Sarlós Program – Individual and Group Mentor Training

Professional training in the assessment of primitive reflexes and the practical application of sensorimotor development. Online theoretical learning, an in-person practical weekend and ongoing professional support after the training.

11–12 weeks  •  4 live online consultations  •  2 days of in-person practical training

From understanding to independent application

How do we choose exercises for a child whose attention difficulties are accompanied by motor clumsiness or unusual sensory responses? What should we look for when assessing reflexes? How do we develop an individual exercise program or plan a complete group session?

 

The Stephens–Sarlós Program Mentor Training provides the theoretical foundations, assessment considerations and detailed exercises needed to make these professional decisions. Participants become familiar with the program's approach, learn how to apply the assessment protocol taught on the course, and practise planning sessions adapted to individual needs.

 

Who is the training for?

The training is primarily intended for professionals who work with children, young people, adults or older people and who wish to expand their professional toolkit with sensorimotor knowledge. The topics covered are particularly relevant to the following fields:​

• education, special education, preschool and early childhood education;

• motor development, adapted physical education, sport and recreation;

• healthcare, rehabilitation, psychology and helping professions;

• social care and care of older people.

Applications are assessed on the basis of prior qualifications, professional experience and motivation. Each participant applies the knowledge gained within the scope of their own professional competencies.

 

Course Director

Dr Erzsébet Stephens-Sarlós, developer of the Stephens–Sarlós Program, sensorimotor therapist and Senior Research Fellow at Széchenyi István University, Győr, Hungary>. She combines several decades of experience in education and developmental work with university teaching and research. The training incorporates practical experience, case analysis and relevant research findings.

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What you will learn

The relationship between nervous system function and movement

The theoretical foundation covers the structure of the nervous system, communication between nerve cells, the role of neurotransmitters and neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the nervous system's capacity to change in response to experience and learning. This knowledge helps participants understand the professional basis of sensorimotor development.

Primitive reflexes and sensorimotor function

Participants learn about infant reflexes, fundamental movement patterns and postural reactions. They explore the relationship between sensory information processing and motor responses, as well as the roles of balance, muscle tone and proprioception.

 

The course covers retained primitive reflexes as well as frontal release signs that may appear in older age. Topics also include sensorimotor aspects associated with attention, learning, speech development and sensory difficulties. The emphasis is on understanding these relationships and their implications for developmental work.

Assessment and individual exercise programs

Participants practise assessing reflexes, evaluating observed responses and documenting findings according to the protocol. They learn how to use assessment findings to select appropriate exercises and how to develop an exercise program adapted to the individual's condition, age and physical capacity.

Session planning and exercise instruction

The training covers the structure of warm-up, main exercise and cool-down sections, as well as the selection of repetitions, intensity and rest periods. Participants practise demonstrating movements, identifying and correcting errors in execution, and modifying exercises to make them easier or more challenging. A separate section focuses on the methodology of group sessions.

Case analysis and a research-informed approach

Self-assessment tests, working through individual cases, developing exercise programs and case discussions help participants apply their knowledge in practice. The autumn schedule includes 12 tests and dedicated time for studying research findings and publications.

The results of reflex assessments are interpreted in the context of the individual's overall functioning. The reliability of a measurement protocol and the effectiveness of a developmental intervention are separate questions; when interpreting research, we also distinguish between associations and demonstrated cause-and-effect relationships.

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How the learning is structured

The training combines online theory and in-person practical work over approximately 11–12 weeks. Independent study follows the prescribed schedule, while the consultations provide opportunities to clarify questions and discuss areas of uncertainty together.

Online theoretical learning

The theoretical component is completed online. The learning materials are accompanied by tests and application-based tasks, allowing participants to arrive at the practical weekend well prepared. A stable internet connection and a computer suitable for accessing the course materials are required.

Four live online consultations

Each course includes four synchronous online consultations. These provide an opportunity to ask questions directly, review the material covered and discuss any areas of uncertainty. The consultations are recorded, so participants who are unable to attend can watch them afterwards.

In-person practical weekend

During the two-day weekend, the focus is on reflex assessment, correct exercise technique and session planning. Participants present their own cases, explain and practise exercises, and receive feedback on their work. Attendance at the practical training is compulsory.

The practical training takes place at the Ferencvárosi Művelődési Központ in District 9, Budapest. The total duration of the winter–spring course is 180 training hours: 156 hours of online learning and consultations, plus 24 hours of in-person practical training.

 

What participants receive

Participants are provided with materials to support both their learning and their subsequent professional work:

• Online training materials: content supporting the study of the theoretical material and preparation for the practical training.

• 22 video packages: exercises organised by problems and reflexes, with 12–14 exercises in each package. The videos help participants understand and recall the movements.

• Two books of their choice: participants can choose two books by Dr Erzsébet Stephens-Sarlós.

• Printed exercise collection: 120–140 exercises grouped according to reflexes, for planning and practical work.

• Recordings of the four online consultations: recorded explanations and professional discussions available for later review.

Certificate and application of the program

Upon successful completion of the training requirements, participants may request a certificate. The certificate can also be issued in English or German upon request. Completion requirements include the theoretical assignments, application of the exercises, presentation of an individual case and attendance at the practical training.

 

Within the Stephens–Sarlós Program, the certificate authorises the participant to use the validated assessment protocol taught during the training for testing purposes, and to provide individual and group mentoring within the scope of their own professional competencies.

Professional community after the training

Participants can join a private Facebook group where research materials are shared and professional assistance, support and supervision opportunities are provided. The community offers a space to discuss questions and experiences arising from practical application. A conference is organised once a year, where mentors can share their experiences and present their results on a particular topic.

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Application and contact

The training is organised by Reflex Mentor Kft. Adult Education Registration Number: B/2024/000067. Applications for advertised courses are accepted in accordance with the current application notice; admission is based on consideration of prior qualifications, professional experience and motivation.

The participation fee for the spring 2027 course is HUF 577,850 gross (HUF 455,000 net + 27% VAT). The dates and fees for courses starting later will always be specified in the relevant course announcement.

Interest in the next training course:
If you would like to be notified when applications open for the next course, please complete the Expression of Interest form (Hungarian language.)

We warmly welcome colleagues who would like to deepen their knowledge of sensorimotor function and expand their everyday professional practice with carefully considered exercises tailored to individual needs.​