Bay Area Neuro-Affirming Resources for Twice-Exceptional (2e) and Gifted Kids: A Guide for Families in San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Marin, & Beyond

Feb 3

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 near the Bay Area, finding the right professionals and services can be daunting. That’s why we've compiled this guide: to connect families with resources that not only cater to the intellectual and emotional needs of 2e and gifted children, but also embrace a neurodivergent-affirming perspective in their practices. In this post, we’ll introduce a variety of services available throughout the Bay Area and explain why each is important for families with neurodivergent kids.

Why Neuro-Affirming Resources for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids Are So Important

When we talk about neuro-affirming resources, we’re referring to professionals and practices that recognize and celebrate neurodiversity. Neuro-affirming professionals do not view neurodivergent children through a deficit-based lens, where their challenges are seen as problems to be “fixed.” Instead, they take a strength-based approach focusing on the child’s talents and abilities, while providing the necessary support for areas of challenge. The goal is not to change the child to fit into neurotypical molds, but rather to create an environment where the child’s unique wiring can thrive.

For twice-exceptional and gifted children, this approach is especially important. Because they have strengths in certain areas while also facing challenges in others, a traditional educational or therapeutic approach that focuses primarily on "fixing" their weaknesses can unintentionally overlook or undervalue their talents. This can lead to negative self-perceptions, where they begin to feel defined by their difficulties rather than empowered by their strengths. A neuro-affirming approach ensures that both aspects of their identity—strengths and challenges—are recognized and supported, helping them grow in a way that nurtures their whole self.

As parents of 2e children, seeking out neuro-affirming resources is an active and conscious choice we need to make in order to ensure that they are not only supported in their challenges but also celebrated for their strengths. The right professional can make all the difference in 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 for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

For families of gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) children, it’s crucial to work with neuropsychologists who are experienced in understanding the unique cognitive and emotional profiles of 2e kids. These specialists provide in-depth neuropsychological evaluations that go beyond traditional assessments to uncover both strengths and challenges. These evaluations help families gain a clearer understanding of how their child’s giftedness may interact with neurodivergences like ADHD, learning disabilities, or anxiety, and guide the development of tailored educational and emotional support strategies. Having a neuropsychologist who understands 2e can ensure accurate testing and provide insights that lead to meaningful interventions, helping children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Here are some neuropsychologists and resources for families in the Bay Area:

Summit Center– Dr. Dan Peters, co-founder and Executive Director, is a psychologist, author, and executive coach specializing in neurodiversity, giftedness, and twice-exceptionality. He focuses on helping children and families overcome worry and the unique challenges of 2e individuals. Dr. Lisa White, a licensed psychologist, provides strengths-based psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations, as well as coaching and consultation to help parents raise their 2e children and find the best educational environment.
CHC (Children's Health Council) – Provides neuropsychological evaluations and support for gifted and neurodivergent children, helping families address academic and emotional needs.

These professionals provide invaluable expertise in understanding the complex nature of twice-exceptionality, helping families get the insights they need to best support their child’s learning and well-being.

Claim Your Free Classes!

Unlock 12+ FREE classes NOW! Tell us where to send them, and start watch your child love learning—all at no cost to you!

Educational Therapists for Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

One resource many families of gifted and twice-exceptional kids find invaluable is an educational therapist (ET). Unlike a traditional tutor, an educational therapist works with children to address specific learning challenges, often using a combination of specialized teaching techniques to help a child succeed academically. Ultimately, educational therapists help our students learn about their own learning. For gifted and 2e kids, educational therapists are especially important because they can tailor their approach to the child’s unique learning styles, strengths, and challenges.

Here are some skilled educational therapists in the Bay Area for you to check out:

Kara Scanlon at Scanlon Educational Center – Specializing in dyscalculia, dyslexia, ADHD, and executive function difficulties, using a multi-sensory and holistic approach to engage and build confidence in students.
Stefan Oste – Focuses on math support and executive function coaching, tailoring sessions to help students develop organizational skills and time management strategies.
Executive Functioning First- Sarah Lovell is an executive functioning coach who offers one-on-one coaching and membership support to help college students and adults build key skills like organization, self-regulation, time management, and problem-solving. Sarah's approach emphasizes self-care and positive self-talk as the foundation for success.

Maayan Glaser-Koren at Educational Therapy LLC – Works with students and adults with ADHD, ASD, and learning differences, integrating executive functioning support and self-compassion techniques to foster both academic and emotional growth. Her practice is client-centered, ensuring individualized care and support.
Zivit Reiter at Reiter Coaching – Specializing in learning disabilities, attention difficulties, and language processing issues, using a strengths-based approach to address challenges and build academic skills.
Sean McCormick at EF Specialists – guides middle, high school, and college students in overcoming procrastination, disorganization, and anxiety by teaching time management, prioritization, and communication skills so they feel motivated, prepared, and empowered. Sean is also the founder of the Executive Function Coaching Academy and the co-founder of UpSkill Specialists, an Adult Executive Function Skills coaching company.

These educational therapists bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, offering personalized services to help 2e kids overcome academic challenges while fostering their emotional and psychological growth.

Parent Support Coaches/Advisors/Groups for Families with Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

Parent support coaches provide essential guidance, helping families understand their child’s unique strengths and needs. These professionals offer emotional support, education about 2e and gifted traits, and practical strategies for advocating for the right educational services and accommodations. These experts educate parents about the emotional and cognitive profiles of their children, offering tools for managing challenges, and teaching families how to advocate effectively within and outside of school systems. Additionally, they provide coaching on how to build resilience, foster emotional well-being, and navigate the social and academic demands that 2e kids often face.

Here are some great Bay Area Parent Support Coaches/Advisors/Groups:

REEL – Ensures 2e learners thrive in school by increasing parent awareness of strategies to address their needs successfully. REEL offers expert speakers, support groups, and resources to help parents learn to advocate for and support their 2e kids on their educational journey. (run by some YSA moms)
Dr. Danika Maddocks at the Gifted Learning Lab – A 2e parent coach who helps families manage emotional and behavioral challenges, build resilience, and develop self-advocacy strategies.
Sequoia Gifted and Creative – Specializes in homeschool coaching, school advocacy, and emotional support, offering tailored services for gifted and 2e learners, including parent coaching.
Elisabeth Stitt – Provides personalized coaching and guidance for parents of gifted and 2e children, helping them navigate academic and emotional challenges. Elisabeth’s coaching focuses on building strong communication, advocacy skills, and emotional resilience for families, empowering them to advocate effectively for their children’s needs.
Square Peg Union- A supportive community for parents and guardians of neurodivergent children—sharing resources, building friendships, and driving change. (run by some YSA moms)
Dr. Melanie Hayes – Specializes in neurodivergent and 2e individuals, offering self-advocacy and empowerment coaching for parents and children.
BAGHS – A community of Bay Area families homeschooling intellectually gifted children, providing support, resources, and social connections for families learning outside traditional schools.

Occupational and 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. Whether it's improving daily living tasks, navigating social situations, or managing sensory sensitivities, OT and SLP are essential in helping our children thrive in everyday life.

Here are some great SLPs and OTs for gifted and 2e kiddos in the Bay Area:

World of OT - Focuses on holistic pediatric occupational therapy, addressing each child’s strengths and challenges. They collaborate with families, teachers, and professionals to create personalized therapy plans that promote growth, confidence, and independence.
Development is Child's Play – Specializes in pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy, with a focus on sensory integration. They help children with sensory processing challenges, developmental delays, motor coordination difficulties, and more.
Laughing Giraffe Therapy – Offers therapy based on empathy, mindfulness, and play. They focus on building authentic relationships, promoting physical activity, and helping children develop emotional intelligence. They believe in a balanced approach that includes family involvement, collaboration, and a focus on overall wellness.

By engaging with specialized therapy services like OT and SLP, parents can help their gifted and 2e children develop crucial skills, build confidence, and enhance their social, emotional, and academic well-being. These services are integral in creating a strong foundation for long-term success, self-actualization and joy.

Empower Your Kiddo With FREE CLASSES, Now!

Unlock 12+ FREE classes NOW! Tell us where to send them, and start watch your child love learning—all at no cost to you!

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 Bay Area designed to address the unique challenges and strengths of 2e learners. These schools create environments where children can thrive academically while receiving the specialized support necessary for their development.

Here are some great school options for gifted and 2e students :

Pacific Prep offers a flexible, one-on-one learning experience for neurodivergent, gifted, and 2e students. With customizable full-time or single-course options, the school provides tailored education to meet each student’s unique needs, including those with ADHD, autism, and mental health challenges. Pacific Prep’s virtual model ensures personalized support, helping students thrive academically and emotionally in a nurturing, adaptable environment. Several YSA students attend Pacific Prep.
Big Minds Unschool offers a flexible, project-based curriculum for gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) students. With a focus on creativity, critical thinking, and self-direction, this innovative learning community provides individualized instruction and mentorship. The non-traditional model supports students’ unique strengths and challenges, fostering a positive environment where they can thrive without the constraints of traditional education. Several YSA students attend Big Minds.
Nueva School is a good option for families seeking an environment that supports the academic and emotional needs of gifted children. Nueva creates a holistic educational experience, ensuring that gifted students with diverse abilities can thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment.
Eclipse Academy offers fully customizable full-time and part-time programs for gifted and 2e students, one-to-one and in small groups, live online –– for school credit, homeschool, enrichment, and/or tutoring. To meet each student's unique needs, the school combines hands-on activities, problem-solving, Socratic methods, and traditional academic approaches, alongside social-emotional education and mentorship.

Choosing the right school for your twice-exceptional or gifted child can make all the difference in their academic and personal growth. These schools take a holistic approach, integrating both the strengths and challenges of 2e and gifted learners.

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.

Fawn and Friends- Being in emotional conflict with your kids is one of life's greatest challenges. Therapy and coaching can make a huge difference, but emotional outbursts don’t happen during therapy sessions. Sometimes you need a little help on a Wednesday evening when you’re in the middle of making dinner. The good news is there is something to help: Fawn Friends. Fawn Friends is an AI friend that helps neurodivergent kids learn to manage their emotions. Your kids can start talking to Fawn now, for free. Physical Fawns will be available to families in the Bay Area soon.

Young Scholars Academy- Young Scholars Academy is a virtual village that offers strength-based enrichment courses and community for 5-18-year-old gifted, twice-exceptional, and bright, differently-wired kiddos to empower them to develop their strengths, make like-minded friends, and thrive under the loving care of mentors!

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 also connect with like-minded peers and passionate mentors, forming friendships over shared interests such as World War I submarines, Dungeons & Dragons, and Minecraft mods. These neuro-affirming courses allow 2e children to dive into their passions, build confidence, and thrive socially—all from the comfort of home.

Picture a place where your child fits in, is celebrated, mentored, and loves learning the unique content that they crave. That is happening every day at YSA for nearly 400 families, and it can happen for your family too!

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 Bay 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.

Remember, the path to success for 2e and gifted children involves recognizing both their strengths and challenges. By seeking out resources that respect neurodiversity and embrace a strengths-based approach, you can provide your child with the support they need to flourish—just as they are.

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 San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Marin, East Bay, and Bay Area list? What city should we explore next? Let us know in the comments!

A big thank you to REEL for their collaboration and generous input on this piece. We truly appreciate their time and expertise. For more neuro-affirming resources and valuable support, visit https://www.reel2e.org/.

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 courses—engaging, strength-based learning experiences your child can enjoy from the comfort of home and start as soon as today!

#TwiceExceptional#GiftedChildren#Neurodiversity#2eKids#NeuroAffirming

Kyla Hunte & Mr. Sam