ADHD & Autism
Children and teens with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may struggle with attention, organization, communication, flexibility, emotional regulation, or behavior. These difficulties are not caused by poor parenting or a lack of effort.
Neurodivergent kids often have meaningful strengths, including creativity, curiosity, honesty, persistence, attention to detail, enthusiasm, and deep knowledge of subjects they care about. They may also experience challenges that interfere with daily life.
Common Challenges We Address
ADHD and ASD can affect attention, impulsivity, organization, social issues, and emotional regulation.
Attention and Executive Functioning
We help young people develop realistic systems for starting tasks, organizing materials, remembering responsibilities, managing time, and completing work.
Impulsivity
Treatment can help children recognize the pause between an impulse and an action, find appropriate outlets for movement, and practice making more deliberate choices.
Emotional Dysregulation
Some children move from calm to overwhelmed very quickly. We help young people recognize early warning signs, communicate what they need, and recover from intense emotions.
Social and Communication Challenges
Young people may need support understanding social expectations, joining conversations, resolving disagreements, maintaining friendships, or communicating when they need space or assistance.
What Parents Can Do at Home
Neurodivergent children often do best with clear expectations, predictable routines, and directions broken into small, manageable steps. Visual schedules, advance notice before transitions, limited choices, and consistent follow-through can reduce stress and confusion. Notice and reinforce positive behavior, effort, flexibility, and attempts to communicate—not just the final outcome.
During difficult moments, try to stay calm and reduce demands until your child is regulated. Behavior may be communicating overwhelm, anxiety, frustration, sensory discomfort, difficulty with transitions, or an unmet need. Looking for the reason behind the behavior can help parents respond with support while still maintaining clear and consistent limits.
How Can We Help?
If you have questions or would like to make an appointment, please complete this form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also call our Santa Cruz Center at (831) 222-0052 or email audrey@cymh.org.
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