Neurodiversity Support (Autism, ADHD & Other Neurodevelopmental Differences)
About this service
We provide practical, respectful, neurodiversity-affirming support at home and in the community—helping autistic, ADHD, and otherwise neurodivergent children, teens, and adults build daily-living skills, participate in meaningful activities, and reduce overwhelm from sensory and executive-function demands. Our approach centres on quality of life, autonomy, and adapting the environment (routines, visuals, sensory inputs) rather than “normalizing” the person—an approach supported by emerging research and practice guidance. (PMC)
In Alberta, families of children may also access public programs alongside private supports—for example Pediatric Community Rehabilitation (OT/PT/SLP) and the provincial Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) program; we coordinate our services around these pathways.
Who it's for
- Children & youth who benefit from goal-focused OT/PT/SLP strategies at home (play-based, family-centred) and from FSCD-funded supports; AHS pediatric rehab emphasizes participation in daily life and early, functional goals.
- Adults seeking help with routines, organization, meal planning, appointments/transport, advocacy at clinics, and community participation using sensory-aware, executive-function supports. (MyHealth Alberta also highlights the value of training/support for families caring for autistic relatives.)
- Families who need coordinated care across home, school, community programs, and (when applicable) AHS/FSCD services; we bridge schedules and share plain-language updates.
What´s included in the service?
Daily-living skill building
Break tasks into visual steps, create checklists/timers, practise meal prep, hygiene, and room resets, and build “low-demand” alternatives for tough parts of the day—aligned with evidence that a neurodiversity lens can improve daily-living skills and well-being.
Sensory strategies & environment tweaks
Reduce overload (lighting/noise, fabrics), add calming stations, schedule movement breaks, and use preferred sensory tools for regulation—consistent with neuroinclusivity recommendations that target sensory barriers.
Executive-function supports
Visual schedules, first-then boards, reminders, and transition plans for outings/appointments; scaffold time-blindness with alarms and check-ins. (AHS pediatric rehab focuses on functional, family-driven goals that fit daily life.)
Communication & participation
Support preferred communication (AAC, scripts, text), prep for appointments, and coach self-advocacy; we can accompany clients to clinics and summarize next steps.
Caregiver coaching & respite blocks
Teach de-escalation, collaborative problem solving, and predictable routines; MyHealth Alberta notes family training reduces stress and improves functioning.
System navigation (children)
Coordinate with FSCD caseworkers and AHS Pediatric Community Rehabilitation (single-entry points exist in zones) so private services complement public OT/PT/SLP plans.
Community connections
Link families to the Autism Society Alberta and AHS information hubs (e.g., Information Prescriptions) for programs, peer groups, and practical resources.
Frequently asked questions
What does “neurodiversity-affirming” mean in practice?
It means we prioritize comfort, consent, and participation over “masking” or forcing neurotypical behaviours. Goals focus on quality of life and accessibility, not normalization—reflecting current practice discussions and research directions.
How do you coordinate with public services in Alberta?
For children, we align with FSCD service plans and AHS Pediatric Community Rehabilitation (OT/PT/SLP) through central access points, so home strategies match clinic goals and don’t duplicate work.
Do you offer therapy?
We provide in-home support and coaching (routines, sensory environments, participation). Formal diagnosis/treatment and progression of therapy goals remain with the medical and rehab teams (e.g., pediatric rehab, specialized clinics).
Can parents get training or peer support?
Yes—AHS and community partners maintain resource hubs; MyHealth Alberta notes that training family members reduces stress and improves functioning. Local societies (e.g., Autism Society Alberta) also run education and community programs.
How do you prevent sensory overwhelm during visits?
We use a brief sensory profile to set up the space (lighting, noise, textures), offer choice/control, and schedule breaks—approaches highlighted in neuroinclusivity guidance.
Download our guide
Check out our guide to Home and Community Care.