Child & Teen Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapy
Helping young people understand themselves, build skills and feel supported
Neurodivergent children and teens may experience the world differently, and those differences can affect emotions, learning, relationships, routines and family life.
A young person may become overwhelmed easily, struggle with transitions or organization, experience anxiety around school, have difficulty communicating what they need or feel discouraged after repeated experiences of feeling misunderstood.
Neurodivergent-affirming therapy focuses on understanding the young person behind the behaviour.
We work with their strengths and needs while helping them develop skills for emotional wellbeing and everyday life.
Who We Support
Children | Ages 6-11
Child neurodivergent-affirming therapy is provided in person at our Milton office.
This format allows therapists to engage younger children through developmentally appropriate conversation, play, movement, games, creative activities and practical skill-building.
Preteens & Teens | Ages 12-17
Preteen and teen therapy is available in person in Milton and virtually across Ontario, where clinically appropriate.
Sessions provide a supportive space to better understand emotions, relationships, school pressures, identity and everyday challenges.
Therapy May Help With
- ADHD-related challenges and executive functioning
- Autistic and other neurodivergent experiences
- Emotional overwhelm and regulation
- Anxiety and school stress
Transitions and changes in routine - Sensory overwhelm
- Self-esteem, confidence and self-understanding
- Friendship and communication challenges
- School avoidance
- Self-advocacy and family communication
What Does Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapy Look Like?
There is no one therapy formula for every neurodivergent child or teen.
Your therapist considers the young person’s age, communication style, strengths, emotional needs, environment and goals.
Therapy may include:
- Emotional-regulation strategies
- Executive-functioning supports
- Psychoeducation
- Creative and play-based approaches
- Communication and self-advocacy skills
- Anxiety-management strategies
Parent consultation or family sessions where appropriate
The purpose is not to teach a young person to hide who they are.
Therapy focuses on helping them understand themselves, communicate their needs and develop strategies for the challenges they experience.
Parent & Caregiver Involvement
Parents and caregivers can play an important role in supporting a young person outside the therapy room.
Depending on the young person’s needs, capacity to consent and therapy goals, parent involvement may include initial consultation, periodic parent check-ins, parent-child sessions, education about neurodivergence, strategies for home and support with communication or routines.
Consent, confidentiality and parent involvement will be explained before therapy begins.
Therapists Who Work With Neurodivergent Children & Teens
Looking for a Psychological Assessment?
Psychotherapy sessions at Elpizo do not include formal psychological or diagnostic assessment.
If you are looking for a psychological assessment, Elpizo can provide information about assessment services available through a psychologist who works with our practice or, where appropriate, help connect you with an external provider.
Psychological assessment has a separate intake process, fees and eligibility requirements. Contact our client-care team for information about current assessment options, availability and next steps.
Find the Right Support
Tell us what you have been noticing at home, at school or in everyday life.
Our client-care team can help identify an appropriate starting point and recommend a therapist whose experience may fit your child or teen’s needs.