Autism Therapy for Kids, Teens and adults


Whether you’re a parent of a child or teen, or an adult navigating life as an autistic individual, it
can feel frustrating or isolating when you feel misunderstood in a world that often doesn’t seem
made for you. At Sherwood Psychology, we provide a neuroaffirming, strengths-based
approach to therapy for individuals with lower-support-needs autism (e.g., Level 1 Autism), helping you or your teen develop strategies to thrive.

We see the unique strengths of our autistic clients: creativity, curiosity, attention to detail,
persistence, and thoughtful insight. We help them build on these strengths while supporting
areas that feel challenging. Our focus is on understanding your unique experiences, building
practical skills, and fostering self-acceptance. We meet you where you are, helping you navigate
challenges while honoring your neurodivergent identity.



Why Autism Therapy Can Help

Autistic individuals may face differences in sensory processing, social communication, executive function, and mental health. Many experience anxiety, stress, or low mood as a result of navigating a world designed for neurotypical people. Sherwood Psychology offers support for:

Kids, teens, and adults with lower-support-needs autism, including communication differences and social skills coaching

● Individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood, or social challenges

● Executive functioning and organizational difficulties

● Emotional regulation and coping with stress

● Co-occurring ADHD or other mental health concerns

Our neuroaffirming approach emphasizes understanding, acceptance, and collaboration.
Therapy is not about changing who you are—it’s about giving you the tools to navigate life
successfully while honoring your identity.

How Autism Therapy Helps

Provides a Safe, Non-Judgmental Space
Therapy offers a confidential environment where you or your child can explore thoughts and
feelings without fear of judgment or pressure to “fit in.”

Supports Emotional Regulation and Stress Management
Learn strategies to manage anxiety, frustration, overwhelm, and sensory differences.
Mindfulness and coping techniques help navigate everyday stressors.

Develops Practical Life Skills
Therapy supports executive functioning, organization, time management, and self-advocacy.
Teens and adults build the skills needed to thrive at school, work, and home.

Builds Self-Understanding and Self-Acceptance
Our neuroaffirming approach focuses on strengths, personal identity, and confidence. Therapy
helps you or your teen understand your unique neurodivergent profile and set goals based on
personal priorities.

Reduces Anxiety and Supports Mental Health
Many autistic individuals experience co-occurring mental health concerns such as anxiety,
depression, or ADHD. Therapy provides strategies to cope with these challenges and improve
overall wellbeing.

Enhances Relationships and Communication
Therapy can improve social confidence, communication skills, and relationship management,
whether at home, school, or work. Parent coaching ensures everyone is supported.

Tailors Support Without Judgment
Our approach is collaborative, strengths-focused, and respectful of neurodivergent experiences.
Sessions are guided by your needs and preferences—not rigid protocols.

At Sherwood Psychology, we tailor our approach to your individual needs, which may include:

Understanding yourself and your autistic identity, exploring what unmasking looks like for you

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) adapted for autism: Helps manage anxiety, stress, and low mood through practical strategies using visual supports, concrete language, incorporating special interests

Mindfulness and Emotion Regulation: Teaches coping techniques for sensory overwhelm and emotional challenges

Strengths-Based Coaching: Supports confidence, resilience, and self-advocacy

Parental Guidance (for kids and teens): Helps families understand and support their child’s needs

Whether we’re supporting a child, teen, or adult, our goal is to be accessible and affirming. We build on strengths, use clear and concrete language, weave in special interests, provide structure and visuals, and pace sessions to meet each person’s unique needs. This helps kids feel understood, teens build confidence, and adults feel safe embracing their authentic selves.

Our Neuroaffirming Approach

What to Expect

During your first session, we will:

Explore the challenges/differences you or your child are facing

● Understand your goals for therapy

● Identify strategies for home, school, or work

● Co-create a plan for ongoing sessions

Therapy is collaborative, empowering, and individualized. Children, teens, and adults often find it easier to engage in a safe, supportive environment while learning skills that improve daily functioning and confidence.

Ready to get started?

If you or your child are looking for support, Sherwood Psychology in Ottawa can help. We provide compassionate, tailored therapy in-person and virtually for kids, teens, and adults, focusing on strengths, coping, and self-understanding.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with our autism therapists in Ottawa to take the first step toward neuroaffirming support and practical strategies for everyday life.