Neuro-Affirming Resources for Twice-Exceptional (2e) and Gifted Kids: A Guide for Families in the New England Area

Supporting a twice-exceptional or gifted child can often feel overwhelming. As parents, we are constantly searching for resources that can challenge and nurture our child's amazing strengths, while also offering the right support for areas where they struggle. Of equal importance is finding spaces where they feel truly seen and safe, where they can be themselves without fear of being misunderstood, judged, or othered.

For families of gifted and 2e children living in the New England area, finding the right professionals and services can be overwhelming. That's why we've put together this guide, to help connect families with resources that address both the intellectual and emotional needs of gifted and 2e children, while also fostering a neurodivergent-affirming approach. In this post, we'll highlight a range of services available across the New England area and share why each one is crucial for families with neurodivergent kids.

Why Neuro-Affirming Resources Matter

When we refer to neuro-affirming resources, we're talking about professionals and practices that embrace and honor neurodiversity. Neuro-affirming professionals don't view neurodivergent children through a deficit-focused lens, where their challenges are seen as issues to be "fixed." Instead, they adopt a strength-based approach, focusing on the child's abilities and talents while offering support for areas of difficulty. The aim isn't to reshape the child to fit neurotypical standards, but to foster an environment where the child's unique wiring can flourish.

This approach is especially vital for twice-exceptional and gifted children. These children may have strengths in certain areas, but also face challenges in others. A traditional approach that concentrates mainly on "fixing" their weaknesses can unintentionally overlook or undervalue their strengths. This can lead to negative self-perceptions, where they may feel defined by their struggles rather than empowered by their abilities. A neuro-affirming approach ensures that both their strengths and challenges are acknowledged and supported, enabling them to grow in a way that nurtures their entire identity.

For parents of 2e children, seeking out neuro-affirming resources is a proactive and thoughtful decision. It's important to ensure that these children are not only supported through their challenges but also celebrated for their strengths. The right professional can have a profound impact on their educational and emotional journey.

Disclaimer: While we've made every effort to ensure the quality of these resources, some of whom are colleagues of Mr. Sam, the resources mentioned in this blog are for informational purposes only and are not endorsed or guaranteed by Young Scholars Academy. We encourage you to do your own due diligence in selecting the right fit for your family. Young Scholars Academy is not responsible for any outcomes or experiences resulting from the use of these resources. It's important to choose professionals and organizations that align with your values, understand your child's unique needs, and create an environment where your child can truly thrive.

Neuropsychologists & Testing for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

For families of gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) children, working with neuropsychologists who specialize in the unique cognitive and emotional profiles of 2e kids is essential. These specialists conduct comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations that go beyond traditional assessments to uncover both strengths and challenges. These evaluations help families gain a deeper understanding of how their child's giftedness may intersect with neurodivergences like ADHD, learning disabilities, or anxiety, and inform the creation of customized educational and emotional support strategies.

Here are some neuropsychologists and testing resources for families in the New England area:

• Anya Dashevsky, Psy.D. atGrowing Minds, LLC (Lexington, MA) — a clinical psychologist with extensive training in neuropsychological assessment of children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Dashevsky takes a whole-child approach, helping parents understand their child's behavior, improving family communication, and guiding children through developmental challenges with warmth and care.

• NESCA (Neuropsychology & Education Services for Children & Adolescents) — one of the most respected pediatric neuropsychology practices in New England, with offices in Newton, Hingham, and Plainville, MA; Londonderry, NH; and the Burlington, VT area. NESCA offers comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, transition assessments, executive function coaching, OT, SLP, and more for clients from infancy through young adulthood.

• Anna R.M. Hebert, Psy.D. atDr. Moldover & Associates (Wellesley, MA) — a pediatric neuropsychologist experienced in evaluations and treatment planning for children, adolescents, and young adults with a range of learning disabilities, developmental conditions, and acquired neuropsychological challenges.

Psychologists for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Psychologists specializing in giftedness and twice-exceptionality (2e) are invaluable resources for families seeking a deeper understanding of their child's unique cognitive, emotional, and behavioral needs. These professionals conduct thorough assessments and provide targeted interventions that address the complex intersection of strengths and challenges faced by gifted and 2e children, including issues such as anxiety, ADHD, learning differences, and social-emotional struggles.

Here are some excellent psychologists in the New England area to check out:

• Dr. Lori Baudino, PsyD, BC-DMT (virtual) — integrative parent and child therapy using a mind-body approach, specializing in developmental and learning differences.

Mental Health Therapists for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Mental health therapists who specialize in working with gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) children play a crucial role in addressing the emotional and psychological needs of these students. These professionals offer therapeutic support for a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and school-related challenges, while also helping children and families navigate their unique complexities.

Here are some great mental health therapists in the New England area to check out:

• Heather Lerminiaux, LICSW

Educational Therapists, Executive Functioning Coaches & Parent Consultants for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Many families with gifted and twice-exceptional children find educational therapists, executive functioning coaches, and parent consultants to be invaluable resources. Educational therapists focus on addressing specific learning challenges, executive functioning coaches help students build essential skills such as organization, time management, self-regulation, and problem-solving, and parent consultants work directly with caregivers to strengthen communication and build skills at home.

Here are some skilled professionals in the New England area:

• 2tametheshamE, Inc. (virtual and in-person) — executive function and life coaching for neurodivergent individuals of all ages (including college students and adults) and their parents, based on the B.R.A.I.N Method and using a systems and collaborative approach to strengthen relationships and build confidence, skills, and independence.

• Down the Road Education (virtual, with instructors based in MA and VT) — founded to support diverse learners and their families as they navigate education; wrap-around support sets students and families up for success now and down the road.

• Brendan Mahan from ADHD Essentials -an internationally recognized ADHD and executive function coach, consultant, and speaker, and host of the ADHD Essentials podcast. Brendan brings both professional expertise and lived experience to his work, helping individuals, families, and institutions address the emotional, academic, and lifestyle impacts of ADHD.

Occupational & Speech Language Therapists for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Occupational therapy (OT) and speech-language therapy (SLP) are vital resources for twice-exceptional and gifted children, particularly those who experience challenges with fine motor skills, sensory processing, or social communication. These therapies help children build essential life skills, enhance their independence, and boost their confidence.

Here are some great SLPs and OTs for gifted and 2e kids in the New England area:

• The Lark Center in Norwood, MA — a proudly neurodiversity, gender, and identity affirming center offering occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, physical therapy, mental health counseling, and feeding therapy, as well as interest-based social groups for all ages and day programs including MeadowLARK and SkyLARK.

Schools for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

For many 2e and gifted children, traditional schools may not provide the specific support they need. Fortunately, there are schools in the New England area designed to address the unique challenges and strengths of 2e learners.

Here are some great school options for gifted and 2e students in the New England area:

• Tremont School (Concord, MA) — grades 5-12. Tremont's mission is to reignite a passion for learning by honoring each student's individuality and empowering them to become critical thinkers and compassionate citizens. Grounded in the core values of trust, connection, and independence, the school embraces diverse capabilities and works to create a community where students access their full potential as engaged, joyful learners.

• The Sage School (Foxboro, MA) — PreK-8. The Sage School has been New England's leader in advanced education for academically gifted students since 1990. With small class sizes, co-teachers who specialize in their subject areas, and a rich curriculum that includes STEAM, foreign languages, and the arts, Sage provides gifted children with the academic challenge and social-emotional support they need to thrive.

• Landmark School (Beverly/Prides Crossing, MA) — grades 2-12. Landmark is a nationally recognized day and boarding school for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. Every student receives individualized, language-based instruction in small groups of 6-8, along with a one-to-one daily tutorial designed specifically for them. Landmark graduates leave with the skills, confidence, and independence to succeed in college and beyond.

• The Brighton School (Framingham, MA) — PreK-6. The Brighton School is a nonprofit independent elementary school designed to meet the intellectual, emotional, and social needs of talented, inquisitive children who are eager to learn. With small class sizes and an individualized, accelerated curriculum, Brighton allows children with exceptional abilities to move ahead at their own pace while receiving the support and nurturing they need to grow as whole people.

Advocates / Lawyers / IEP Help

Many families with gifted and twice-exceptional children find advocates, lawyers, and IEP support professionals to be crucial resources. These experts help navigate the complexities of special education law and ensure that schools provide the appropriate accommodations and services for gifted and 2e children.

(Know someone we should add here? Let us know in the comments!)

Tutors for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Many families with gifted and twice-exceptional children find tutors to be an invaluable resource. Unlike traditional classroom instruction, tutors work one-on-one with students to provide personalized attention and tailored learning strategies.

(Know a great tutor in the New England area? Let us know in the comments!)

College Applications & Transition Planning

For many gifted and twice-exceptional students, the transition to college or post-secondary life is one of the most significant and complex steps they will take. Finding the right fit goes far beyond academics. It means identifying schools, programs, and supports that understand and accommodate their unique learning profiles. The professionals below specialize in helping 2e and neurodivergent students navigate this process with confidence.

• Joan Casey at Educational Advocates College Consulting — expertise in college planning for students with learning differences and ADHD.

• Linda Katz at Right Fit College Coaching — specializes in helping students with learning differences find the right college fit.

• Kelley Challen at Challen Education & Transition Services — expert transition specialist supporting teens and young adults with diverse learning and developmental profiles.

Parent Support Groups & Parent Consultants

Parent support groups and parent consultants are invaluable resources for families of gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) children, offering guidance, community, and expert advice.

Here are some great parent support groups and consultants in the New England area:

• In It Together Parenting Community (by 2tametheshamE, Inc.) — a community for people raising neurodivergent individuals, with weekly access to a parent coach and a library of videos and audio covering neurodivergent brains, executive function skills, communication strategies, and ways to strengthen relationships and empower skill building.

• Massachusetts Association for Gifted Education (MAGE) — resources, advocacy, and community for families of gifted and 2e learners in Massachusetts.

• The Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families at Framingham State University — a free resource serving families and educators across the New England region, offering individualized guidance, caregiver support groups, workshops, and one-on-one consultations for those navigating the needs of students with disabilities, gifted learners, and students with unmet needs.

Social-Emotional and Intellectual Enrichment for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Gifted and twice-exceptional children thrive in environments that support their intellectual, social, and emotional growth. Social connections groups, emotional support tools, and enrichment programs offer 2e kids the opportunity to build friendships, develop emotional regulation skills, and explore their passions in a supportive, neuro-affirming setting.

• Young Scholars Academy— a virtual village offering strength-based enrichment courses and community for 5-18-year-old gifted, twice-exceptional, and bright, differently-wired kids. With a wide range of subjects from math and science to arts and humanities, YSA challenges students at their own pace while fostering skills like time management, independent learning, and creative thinking. Students connect with like-minded peers and passionate mentors, forming friendships over shared interests. These neuro-affirming courses allow 2e children to dive into their passions, build confidence, and thrive socially, all from the comfort of home.

• AANE — The Association for Autism and Neurodiversity (Watertown, MA) — coaching, support groups, resources, and community for Autistic and similarly neurodivergent people and their families.

• The Network at UMass Lowell (Lowell, MA) — a social networking program for neurodivergent young adults aged 18-30 run by Dr. Ashleigh Hillier. Members meet monthly in person and online with the goal of making real, lasting friendships. A companion parent group meets at the same time.

• The Common Room (Brighton, MA) — a social hub for neurodiverse young adults, offering interest-based activities, community events, and a welcoming space to build real friendships.

Additional Resources

• Dawn Link at ReSolutions Organizing — a professional organizer based in Stoneham, MA who helps families reduce clutter, restore order, and rediscover a sense of calm in their homes and offices.

Conclusion

Supporting twice-exceptional (2e) and gifted children requires a thoughtful, holistic approach that honors both their strengths and challenges. By connecting with neuro-affirming resources such as neuropsychologists, educational therapists, parent support coaches, and occupational or speech therapists, families can create a nurturing environment where their children feel seen, understood, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

In the New England area, a wealth of specialized professionals and support networks are available to guide families in navigating the complexities of 2e and giftedness. From personalized coaching and therapy to in-depth neuropsychological assessments, these resources help ensure that children are not only supported in areas where they struggle, but also celebrated for their remarkable gifts.

By embracing a neurodivergent-affirming perspective, parents can empower their children to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally, while fostering an environment of acceptance, growth, and self-advocacy. With the right resources, every 2e and gifted child can thrive, embracing their unique potential and becoming confident, resilient individuals ready to make their mark on the world.

We want to find the best resources for 2e and gifted kids in as many cities as we can. Did we miss anyone you think we should add to our New England resource list? What city should we explore next? Let us know in the comments!

Disclaimer: While we've made every effort to ensure the quality of these resources, some of whom are colleagues of Mr. Sam, the resources mentioned in this blog are for informational purposes only and are not endorsed or guaranteed by Young Scholars Academy. We encourage you to do your own due diligence in selecting the right fit for your family. Young Scholars Academy is not responsible for any outcomes or experiences resulting from the use of these resources.

Help Your Child Feel Great and Make Friends

Do you worry about your child saying negative things about themselves and thinking there's something wrong with them? Have you struggled to find opportunities for your child's strengths to be identified and celebrated? Do you long for a space where your kiddo can experience social wins and build real friendships?

If you said yes, click here to explore Young Scholars Academy's Summer Camps — engaging, strength-based learning experiences your child can enjoy from the comfort of home and start as soon as today!