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"Parenting is DoAble with ParentAble"
The Neurodiverse Brain
and
Naturalistic Neurodevelopment Philosophy
I work with neurodiverse children, teenagers, their siblings and their parents.
My expertise ranges from working with highly Gifted and Talented children to, more specifically, those with ADHD, those with Executive Function deficits and Working Memory challenges, those on the ASD spectrum and all of those in between, including a myriad of coexisting conditions.
I firmly believe that a neurodiverse child, teenager or young adult is also gifted and talented. The brain does not differentiate between one or the other and a deficit in one area often means a surplus in another.
I am trained in how the brain works in neurodiverse children and young adults, which I am fervently passionate about. I am a master at integrating neurology, behavior, academics and social pragmatics to help them find their path. In short, I work with the neurodiverse brain to access and foster the twice exceptional.
I am a member of NATSAP, The Child Mind Institute, NAMI, The Mindsight Institute & The Arbinger Institute.
To see further qualifications and ongoing career development, click here.
To read Client Testimonials, click here.
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Naturalistic Neurodevelopment Philosophy
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Naturalistic Neurodevelopment is grounded in principles of cognitive development and neuroscience, focusing on the brain’s incredible ability to change and adapt—what we call neuroplasticity. This is when the brain rewires itself, creating new pathways that allow it to function in ways it couldn’t before.
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This philosophy embraces the richness and complexity of real-world experiences and interactions. It’s based on the idea that the brain develops best when it’s responding to the dynamic, natural environment around it. By following a child’s lead and using items or activities they’re naturally drawn to—those they’re internally motivated to engage with—we can jumpstart the process of building new brain connections.
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For neurodiverse children, including those with high-functioning autism, ADHD or similar profiles, this approach can lead to meaningful shifts. It helps move them from a place of frustration or uncertainty to one where they feel empowered and capable. Over time, as they learn to make their own choices and follow through, even when it’s hard, they develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and a clearer perspective on their world.
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By focusing on intentional, individualized development, we help children tap into their innate strengths and internal motivation, allowing them to discover their own unique path forward. This natural, child-led process opens the door to growth, resilience, and a greater sense of possibility.​
The Foundations of Naturalistic Neurodevelopment Philosophy
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Tailoring to the individual working brain
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Providing a non-judgemental foundation
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Cultivating emotional intelligence
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Assisting in discovering intrinsic motivation
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Aiding in releasing internal resistance
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Supporting the establishment of routines
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Facilitating a transition from feelings of defeat
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Assigning responsibility appropriately
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Emphasizing the importance of understanding the 'why'
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Promoting feel good activities and verbal communication
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Concentrating on effective skill sets that work for neurodiverse minds
Each brain is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Expert-Guided, Research-Based Approach
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My mentor, Douglas Maughan, CMHC, is the former Consulting Clinical Director of a residential treatment center specializing in neurodiverse individuals.
His innovative approach, rooted in the principles of Naturalistic Neurodevelopment, has been adapted to support a broader range of neurodiverse needs.
Douglas' work is informed by the latest research from the Center for Translational Social Neuroscience at Emory University, one of only three NIH Autism Centers of Excellence. This center is led by Ami Klin, a globally recognized clinical psychologist and researcher specializing in autism and social neuroscience. By integrating this cutting-edge research, our approach remains at the forefront of evidence-based strategies for neurodevelopment and cognitive growth.​
