Neurodivergent Parenting

The complexities of Neurodivergent Parenting

Do you feel that you've tried everything but aren't seeing improvements? Have you grounded, taken away phones and cars, set up rewards and still cannot seem to get your child/teens’ cooperation or attention?

Parenting is tough, and can be made even more complex if you and/or your child are neurodivergent.

How we can help

No matter where you are in the parenting process, whether it’s a simple change or a parenting revamp, together we can develop and implement a plan to help.

We also recognize the unique challenges of separated and blended families, and have found that co-parenting therapy sessions can provide clarity and increase cohesion by focusing on you role as ‘parent’ separate from your relationship with an ex-spouse or new stepparent.

    • Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria is an intense emotional response to perceived rejection, criticism, or failure—real or imagined. For many neurodivergent people, especially those with ADHD or autism, RSD can feel overwhelming and deeply painful. It’s not about being “too sensitive”—it’s about having a nervous system that feels rejection as a full-body experience.

    • If you or your child feel crushed by criticism, avoid situations where you might be judged, or seem to take things “too personally,” this may be part of what’s going on.

    • We see this as a sign of how deeply you care. RSD often comes from a history of being misunderstood or feeling like you have to work extra hard just to belong. In therapy, we create space to untangle those experiences, strengthen self-worth, and build resilience—without asking you to shut down your feelings.

    • Some neurodivergent individuals—both kids and adults—experience what’s known as a Persistent Drive for Autonomy (sometimes called the PDA profile). This isn’t about being defiant or oppositional—it’s a deep, nervous-system-level need to feel safe, in control, and not pressured. Even everyday requests (like “put on your shoes” or “answer this email”) can feel threatening if they’re experienced as a loss of agency.

    • Underneath the surface is often anxiety, sensitivity, and a creative, adaptive mind trying to find freedom in a world that feels unpredictable or overwhelming.

    • We approach PDA with compassion, flexibility, and a deep respect for autonomy. That means working collaboratively, reducing pressure, and finding ways to honor needs without triggering overwhelm. When safety and trust are present, connection and growth naturally follow.