How to Find the Right Therapy for Neurodivergent Kids in Sydney
- reception5127
- Jan 12
- 3 min read
Finding the right therapy for a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to navigate waitlists, funding options, and differing therapy approaches.
As speech pathologists working with neurodivergent children across Sydney, we know how important it is to find supports that are not only effective but respectful, affirming, and child-centred.
This guide will break down what neurodivergence means, what to look for in therapy services, and some red flags to be aware of when choosing the right kind of support for your child.
What Does “Neurodivergent” Mean?
The term neurodivergent describes individuals whose brains develop or work differently from what is considered “neurotypical.” This includes children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), along with children who may have ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, intellectual disabilities, or variations in communication, learning, attention, or sensory processing.
Neurodiversity recognises that these differences are a natural part of human variation, not deficits that need to be “fixed.” From a therapy perspective, this means focusing on strengths, supporting access and participation, and helping children communicate and engage with the world in ways that work for them.
Key Considerations When Choosing Therapy for Neurodivergent Kids
When choosing therapy for neurodivergent children, several key considerations can help ensure the support is effective, appropriate, and tailored to the child’s needs.
1. Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice
Look for therapists who explicitly describe their work as neurodiversity-affirming. This approach:
Respects a child’s identity and communication style.
Avoids goals focused on masking or appearing “more typical.”
Supports regulation, autonomy, and authentic communication.
Works with the child, not just on the child.
Affirming therapists will value alternative communication (AAC), sensory needs, stimming, and diverse social styles.
2. Individualised, Child-Led Goals
No two children are the same. Therapy should be tailored to your child’s strengths, interests, and priorities, not a one-size-fits-all program. Goals should be meaningful to both the child and family, such as:
Functional communication.
Emotional regulation and self-advocacy.
Participation in preschool, school, or the community.
3. Family Collaboration
Effective therapy should involve an individual's family. Therapists should:
Take time to understand your child's and your family's values.
Share strategies you can use at home.
Communicate openly about progress and challenges.
You should feel listened to and respected as the expert on your child.
4. Experience with Neurodivergent Children
Ask about the therapist’s experience working with neurodivergent children and whether they engage in ongoing professional development in areas such as autism, AAC, sensory processing, and practices that recognise the impact of stress and support a child’s emotional regulation and safety.
This ensures your child is supported by someone knowledgeable, skilled, and committed to their well-being.
Why Choosing the Right Therapy Matters
The right therapy can support a child’s confidence, communication, and overall well-being. The wrong approach, however, can contribute to anxiety, burnout, or a child feeling that something is “wrong” with them.
Early, affirming, and supportive intervention helps neurodivergent children:
Build strong communication skills in their own way.
Feel understood and accepted.
Develop self-advocacy and independence.
Thrive across home, school, and community environments.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When searching for therapy services in Sydney for your child, consider these potential red flags:
Goals focused solely on making a child “look typical.”
Discouraging stimming, AAC use, or sensory supports.
Using compliance-based or behaviour-only approaches without considering regulation and communication.
Limited collaboration with families.
Promising quick fixes or guaranteed outcomes.
Trust your instincts; if something does not feel right, it is okay to ask questions or look elsewhere. You know your child best, and advocating for their needs is both valid and important.
Finding the Right Support in Sydney
Sydney offers a wide range of therapy services, which can feel overwhelming when trying to find the best fit for your child. Ultimately, choosing the right fit is key! Look for clinics that prioritise neurodiversity affirming care, evidence-based practice, and genuine collaboration with families.
At Milestones Kids Therapy Hub, we are passionate about supporting neurodivergent children in a way that is respectful, strengths-based, and individualised. Our speech pathologists work closely with children and families to support communication, regulation, and participation, without trying to change who a child is.
If you are looking for affirming speech pathology or occupational therapy support for your neurodivergent child in Sydney, we would love to hear from you.
📞 Call us on 8201 3599 or click here to book an assessment today.
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