Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy for ADHD & Autism

Serving Children, Teens & Adults in Los Altos & San Jose - with Trauma-Informed, Compassionate Care

You or your child deserve support that honors the way your brain works. At Mindful Child & Family Therapy, we provide warm, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for folks with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence. Our therapists offer evening and weekend availability, specialized support for children and teens, and deeply respectful, trauma-informed care.

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What "Neurodiversity-Affirming" Means to Us

We view ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent traits as natural variations in human thinking, learning, and processing - not problems that need to be "fixed." Our work centers on:

Respecting sensory, communication, & processing differences
Validating lived experiences (including masking, burnout, or overwhelm)
Supporting strengths, identity, and confidence
Offering strategies that fit your brain, not generic templates

You don't need to change who you are to access support. Therapy should meet you where you already are.

Who We Support

We welcome neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan:

Children (ages 4-12)

Play-based, sensory-friendly therapy with tools for emotional regulation, communication, and transitions. Parent support is included.

Teens

A space to explore identity, manage stress, understand emotions, and navigate school, friendships, and expectations.

Adults

Support for executive functioning challenges, relationships, boundaries, burnout, work stress, and self-advocacy.

Parents & Caregivers

Coaching and guidance to help you understand and respond to your child's unique needs with compassion and clarity.

Our Approach to ADHD & Autism Support

Every neurodivergent person is different - which is why our therapy adapts to you, not the other way around.

Trauma-Informed Care

Many neurodivergent folks experience chronic invalidation, school-based trauma, or years of masking. We prioritize safety, consent, and emotional pacing in every session.

Specialized Support for Children & Teens

This is one of our core strengths.Our work may include:

Emotion regulation skills
Coping strategies for sensory overload
Social communication tools
Support during school transitions or IEP/504 processes
Collaborative sessions with parents when helpful

Evening & Weekend Appointments

Because life is real and schedules are tight. We offer flexible appointment times so families and working adults can get the support they need without added stress.

Evidence-Based Modalities Adapted for Neurodiversity

We integrate approaches that honor each person's processing style:

IFS (Internal Family Systems) for parts work & self-understanding
CBT, adapted for neurodivergence
EMDR for trauma, overwhelm, or negative self-beliefs
Strengths-based, relational therapy

Nothing is one-size-fits-all - we match the therapy to the person.

Signs Therapy May Be Helpful

Therapy can be a supportive option if you or your child is experiencing:

For Adults

Burnout or exhaustion from masking
Difficulty with executive functioning
Emotional overwhelm
Feeling misunderstood in relationships
Chronic stress or sensory overload

For Children & Teens

School anxiety or avoidance
Challenges with transitions
Meltdowns or shutdowns
Sensory sensitivities
Social difficulties
Big feelings that feel hard to manage

For Parents

Feeling unsure how to support your child
Wanting tools for co-regulation & communication
Navigating school demands, assessments, or IEP processes

If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone - and you don't have to figure it out by yourself.

Support in Los Altos, San Jose & Across California

We offer neurodiversity-affirming therapy at our Los Altos and San Jose offices, with telehealth available for clients anywhere in California.

Meet Our Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapists

Katie Yvanovich, LMFT

Katie brings a warm, grounded, and affirming presence to her work with neurodivergent children, teens, and families. She integrates play therapy, trauma-informed care, and collaborative strategies that help young people feel seen, supported, and empowered. Katie's approach emphasizes emotional safety, resilience, and honoring each child's unique strengths.

Ellie Alvarez, AMFT

Ellie works with children, teens, adults, and parents, offering compassionate, identity-affirming support for neurodivergent clients. With an emotion-focused and IFS-informed style, Ellie helps clients navigate stress, overwhelm, executive functioning challenges, and relationship dynamics. Her warm, accessible presence and evening availability make therapy feel approachable and supportive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does neurodiversity-affirming therapy look like?

It's collaborative, strengths-based, and never tries to "fix" or force change. We prioritize comfort, consent, sensory needs, and pacing.

Do you diagnose ADHD or autism?

We do not conduct formal diagnostic evaluations, but we provide therapy for individuals with or exploring neurodivergence and can help you navigate referrals if needed.

Do you offer parent involvement?

Yes. Parent participation is available (and often recommended) for children and younger teens. You'll receive tools, strategies, and support tailored to your child's needs.

How do you adapt therapy for sensory needs?

We adjust lighting, seating, pacing, communication style, and activities. Every session is tailored to your comfort level.

Are you a good fit for twice-exceptional (2e) youth?

Yes - we frequently support 2e children and teens with ADHD, autism, and giftedness.

You Deserve Support That Understands You

Whether you're exploring your own neurodivergence or seeking care for your child, we're here to help you feel understood, empowered, and supported.

Request a Free Consultation to get started.

We'd be honored to support you or your family.

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