neuro-affirming support for highly-sensitive and/or neurodivergent kids
Nice to meet you,
I’m Nadine VIKER!
I’m a certified Play Therapist + consultant who provides therapeutic support for highly sensitive and/or neurodivergent children from a trauma-informed, neuroaffirming, and pDA-informed perspective.
As a neuro-affirming therapist, I offer a nurturing haven for both neurodivergent and highly sensitive children to explore their unique experiences. Within the enchanting confines of my sensory playroom, complemented by the comforting presence of therapy dogs (by consent), I guide young individuals through their therapeutic journey.
By integrating sensory techniques and interactive play, my approach caters to the diverse needs of children, fostering healing, self-discovery, and empowerment in a safe, sensory-friendly space that celebrates their individuality and promotes holistic well-being.
WE WILL BE IN A SAFE, SENSORY-FRIENDLY SPACE.
A SENSORY PLAYROOM IS A SPECIALLY DESIGNED SPACE THAT PROVIDES CHILDREN WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO ENGAGE IN SENSORY-RICH ACTIVITIES, STIMULATING THEIR SENSES AND PROMOTING VARIOUS ASPECTS OF DEVELOPMENT
Overall, a sensory playroom provides a rich and engaging environment where children can learn, explore, and grow across multiple domains of development while having fun and enjoying sensory-rich experiences.
book your initial parent consultation to get started!
it’s important that we get to know one another, so we can collaborate on how to best support your child.
Hi, I’m Oakley!
aNIMAL THERAPY, ALSO KNOWN AS ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY (AAT), INVOLVES INTERACTIONS BETWEEN HUMANS AND TRAINED ANIMALS TO HELP IMPROVE INDIVIDUALS’ PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL, AND COGNITIVE WELL-BEING.
I’m a gentle support pup who spends time with kids in my mom, Nadine’s, sessions sometimes. I know that many of the kids that see my mom have had a ruff moment or two.
You can decide if you want me to hang out - it’s up to you!
I’m here to offer cuddles, check in to see if you’re okay with a nose nudge (but, only if you want me to), and I’m good at protecting you while you play if you need a big guy to make sure you’re safe. I’ll lie in front of the door.
Lots of my friends like to put their heads or hearts near me to listen to me breathe (or snore!). If you want me to join in and snuggle up on the floor next to you, you don’t have to ask twice.
SERVICES OFFERED
Virtual Online parent session
(50 min)
CHILD/PLAY THERAPY SESSION (50 min)
Individual counselling
(50 min)
Behavioural Intervention
(50 min)
FAST FACTS and
Common Terms
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A neurotype refers to the unique neurological characteristics and patterns of an individual's brain function. It encompasses how a person's brain processes information, perceives the world, and regulates emotions and behaviors. Neurotypes can vary widely among individuals and are influenced by factors such as genetics, environment, and life experiences.
In the context of neurodiversity, the concept of neurotype is often used to describe the different ways in which people's brains are wired and how this impacts their cognitive, sensory, and social experiences. For example, individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental differences are considered to have different neurotypes that shape their unique strengths, challenges, and perspectives.
Understanding and recognizing different neurotypes is important for promoting acceptance and inclusion of neurodiverse individuals in society. It emphasizes the value of diverse ways of thinking and experiencing the world, and highlights the importance of accommodating and supporting individuals with different neurotypes to thrive and reach their full potential.
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Neurotypical individuals who think, feel, behave, and relate within a typical or expected range of function for their age.
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Neurodivergent individuals who think, feel, behave and relate in a way that is considered outside of the typical range of function for their age.
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A person may be considered to be neurodivergent if they are diagnosed with or identify as having one or more of the following conditions:
Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Pathological Demand Avoidance or Sensory Processing Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – all types
Dyslexia, Hyperlexia
Learning Disability – all types
Alexithymia
Synaesthesia
Tourette’s Syndrome
Dyspraxia
Dysgraphia
Anxiety
Depression
Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD)
Schizophrenia
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Personality disorders
Dissociative disorder
Bipolar disorder
Etc.
What is neuroaffirming therapy?
Neuroaffirming therapy for kids is an approach that focuses on understanding and supporting the neurodivergent experiences of children, including those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences. It emphasizes affirming and validating these individuals' unique neurological experiences rather than trying to change or "fix" them to fit into neurotypical norms.
This involves creating a supportive and accepting environment that respects the child's sensory needs, communication preferences, and cognitive processing differences. It often includes strategies to enhance the child's self-awareness, self-regulation, and self-advocacy skills.
Neuroaffirming therapy may also involve collaboration with parents, educators, and other caregivers to ensure that the child's needs are understood and accommodated in various settings.
The goal is to empower the child to thrive and reach their full potential by honoring their neurodivergent identity and promoting their strengths and interests.