Neuro-Affirming Resources for Twice-Exceptional (2e) & Gifted Kids: A Guide for Families in the Greater New York City Area

Nov 18

Supporting a twice-exceptional (2e) child can often feel overwhelming, like trying to put together a puzzle with pieces that don’t always fit together the way you expect. As parents, we are often 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 or judged.

For families of 2e children living in or near New York City, 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 children, but also embrace a neurodivergent-affirming perspective in their practices. In this post, we’ll introduce a variety of services available throughout the NYC area and explain why each is important for families with neurodivergent kids.

What Does "Twice-Exceptional" Mean?

First, let’s define what we mean by "twice-exceptional." A twice-exceptional (2e) child

"evidences exceptional ability and disability, which results in a unique set of circumstances." Their exceptional ability may dominate, hiding their disability; their disability may dominate, hiding their exceptional ability; or each may mask the other so that neither is fully recognized or addressed (Baldwin, Baum, et al.).

In other words, someone who has both above-average abilities (strengths) and also has learning differences (struggles), such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism, etc. This duality can create a unique set of challenges: they may excel in certain areas, like math, art, or creativity, but may also struggle in others, such as writing, reading, or executive functioning.

When the strengths and challenges of 2e children are acknowledged and supported, they can find a path to authenticity, learning to navigate their gifts and differences in ways that empower them to be their best and happiest selves.

What Does "Gifted" Mean? More importantly, What "Gifted" Doesn’t Mean!

Giftedness is often associated with high intelligence or exceptional talents in specific areas, such as mathematics, language, music, or creative thinking. However, it’s essential to understand that being gifted doesn’t mean a child will excel in every area of life, nor does it guarantee that they will conform to conventional educational expectations. Gifted children often display an intense passion for learning and may work at an accelerated pace, but they may still, and often do, face challenges with executive functioning, or emotional regulation.

Moreover, giftedness does not mean perfection, and it doesn’t imply that a child is "better" than their peers in every way. Many stereotypes about giftedness couldn’t be further from the truth. Many assume that being gifted means that someone is a perfect student. That’s often not the case at all. Life twice-exceptional students, many gifted students struggle with the demands of school.

Here’s the kicker… school often has it wrong, as it’s often focused on deficits. There is an alignment issue here… While school is focused on deficits, the real world seems to be only focused on strengths and talents.

As Dr. Joseph Renzulli famously said,

“No one cares about Picasso’s ability to do complex math, or Einstein’s ability to paint. Yet, schols are so focusrd on making students ‘good’ at everything.”

The focus should be on cultivating and supporting the child’s individual strengths—whether that’s problem-solving, creative thinking, or artistic talent—while also recognizing that every child, including gifted ones, has areas where they need help or growth.

Why Neuro-Affirming Resources 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 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—gifts 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.

Educational Therapists: More Than Just Tutoring

One resource many families of 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. For 2e kids, educational therapists are especially important because they can tailor their approach to the child’s specific learning styles, strengths and challenges.

For example, an educational therapist can help a child with dyslexia develop strategies for reading, or support a child with ADHD in developing organizational skills. One such professional in NYC is Dr. Sandra Clifton, an educational therapist who focuses on building psychological well-being alongside academic success. Dr. Clifton works primarily with children from 2nd grade and up, using techniques such as "learned optimism" to support emotional growth and academic achievement. She specializes in working in-person and prefers to take a holistic approach, looking at identity development and overall psychological health. You can contact her directly at Sensitive Students.

Parent Support Groups: Connecting with Other Families

Parenting a 2e child can be isolating, and it’s often difficult to find others who truly understand the unique experience of raising a child with both exceptional abilities and challenges. Parent support groups are invaluable for families in this journey, offering a space to share experiences, exchange advice, and access resources.

A fantastic resource for parents in NYC is Melissa Sornik, LCSW, who provides support tailored specifically to families raising twice-exceptional children. Melissa brings a compassionate, strength-based approach to her work, helping parents navigate the complexities of 2e parenting. You can learn more about her services on her website.

Additionally, Young Scholars Academy offers a virtual support group where parents of 2e children can connect in a safe, understanding environment. The group provides an opportunity to share stories, learn strategies for managing the unique challenges of raising a 2e child, and offer mutual support (Young Scholars Parent Group).

Therapists & Psychologists: Supporting Emotional and Mental Health

In addition to educational support, therapy is often crucial for helping 2e children navigate emotional or social challenges. Many 2e children face struggles with anxiety, depression, or social difficulties, and working with a therapist can provide essential tools for coping and growth.

One excellent resource in NYC is Dr. Dana Suozzi, a psychologist who specializes in therapy and psychological testing for twice-exceptional children. Dr. Suozzi uses a holistic approach, focusing on both the strengths and challenges of the 2e children she works with. You can learn more about her services here.

Another highly regarded professional is Dr. Matt Pagirsky at Growing Minds New York, who specializes in neuropsychological assessments, testing, and therapy for 2e kids. His approach integrates both emotional and academic support, offering families a comprehensive understanding of how best to support their child.

Additionally, Dr. Lisa Zaretsky, an experienced consultant and therapist, takes a unique approach to supporting 2e children. With a strong background in working within the NYC Department of Education (DOE), she helps schools and families secure the resources their children need to succeed. Dr. Zaretsky specializes in building collaborative teams around each child, ensuring alignment between educators, therapists, and parents. Recently, she has also incorporated rapid-results hypnotherapy into her practice, which can be especially effective for helping children manage anxiety, overcome academic blocks, and improve focus. This tailored, team-oriented approach ensures comprehensive support for each child. You can learn more about Dr. Zaretsky’s services here.

All of these professionals provide a neuro-affirming, strength-based approach that is essential for helping twice-exceptional children thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

Occupational and Speech Language Therapists: Building Life Skills

Occupational therapy (OT) and speech therapy (SLP) are additional avenues of support for 2e children, particularly those who struggle with fine motor skills, sensory processing, or social communication. These therapies help children develop key life skills and can make a significant difference in their ability to navigate daily challenges.

One excellent resource is Apple Blossom Therapy, a child-centered practice founded by occupational therapist Vaishali Khandare. Apple Blossom Therapy is dedicated to helping children embrace their unique ways of learning and interacting with the world. The clinic specializes in empowering children with diverse developmental needs, including motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living tasks. With a compassionate, strengths-based approach, the team at Apple Blossom Therapy provides a safe, nurturing environment where children can build functional skills, gain confidence, and thrive. Each therapy plan is personalized to honor the child's strengths, ensuring they receive the right support to reach their full potential in a way that works for them.

Another great resource for 2e children is Nili Geldwert, a speech-language pathologist who runs social skills groups through Social Adventures NYC. These groups help children improve their social communication skills and build confidence in peer interactions. Nili’s approach is tailored to address the specific social challenges often faced by 2e children, offering a supportive and structured setting where kids can practice conversation, understand social cues, and form meaningful connections.

By seeking out specialized therapy services like OT and SLP, parents can help their 2e children develop essential life skills, build confidence, and better navigate the world around them. These resources play an important role in creating a strong foundation for emotional, social, and academic success.

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Schools for Twice-Exceptional Students: Finding the Right Fit

For many 2e children, traditional schools may not offer the right level of support. Fortunately, there are schools in NYC and the surrounding areas specifically designed for them. These schools create environments where children can thrive academically while receiving the support they need for their challenges.

Quad Prep is one such school, providing a highly supportive, individualized educational experience for gifted children who also have learning differences. If you’re interested in learning more about Quad Prep, visit their website.

The Lang School is another excellent option for families of twice-exceptional children. Lang emphasizes neurodiversity and specializes in working with gifted children with ADHD, dyslexia, and other challenges. Their approach is to celebrate children’s gifts while addressing their struggles. You can find out more about the Lang School here.

Finally, if you're in the suburbs of NYC, consider checking out Flex School in Bronxville. This school provides a personalized approach to education for gifted and 2e children, offering a supportive and understanding environment.

Choosing the right school for your twice-exceptional child can make all the difference in their academic and personal growth. These schools not only celebrate the unique abilities of 2e children but also provide the specialized support they need to succeed in a way that honors both their strengths and challenges. For parents, finding the right fit can bring peace of mind, knowing that their child is receiving the care and attention they deserve in an environment tailored to their needs.

Social Skills Groups & Enrichment Learning: Building Confidence and Friendships

Twice-exceptional children thrive in environments that celebrate their unique strengths and provide opportunities for both intellectual and social growth. Social groups and enrichment programs are designed to meet the needs of 2e children, helping them connect with like-minded peers while pursuing their passions in a supportive, neuro-affirming setting. Below are some great options for fun, enriching activities that can help 2e kids develop new skills, build social confidence, and most importantly, have fun!

Enrichment Programs and Social skills groups can offer an excellent opportunity for 2e children to practice and refine their social interactions in a supportive setting. These groups are especially beneficial for kids who may have different ways of processing social cues or engaging with peers, as they provide a safe space for children to develop self-awareness, understand social norms, and improve their communication skills.

Young Scholars Academy (Online)

The magic behind Young Scholars Academy is that bright kids are exploring radically accelerated content in niche areas they usually have to explore alone—except here, they’re learning the material they LOVE with mentors to guide them and peers to share their interests.

This community is a dream come true for kids with unique interests who might be struggling socially. They get to dive into the content they love, guided by passionate mentors who help them reach new heights. And the best part? Their social group is built right in.

Like-minded students gather together with teachers who mentor them, creating an environment where making friends is easy and meaningful. The wins here are endless—friendships forged over shared fascinations with World War I submarines, Dungeons & Dragons fandom, the blackest black paint, obscure historical trivia, Minecraft mods, niche skills in Photoshop, etc.

At Young Scholars Academy, the vision is simple: empower clever, quirky kids to explore their passions, build confidence, and connect with others who are as uniquely awesome as they are.

Our program covers over 50 unique subject areas, including everything from conceptual physics, executive function skills, and AP Psychology, to Minecraft, Roblox, and Anime, providing intellectually stimulating content that aligns with each child’s individual strengths. Courses are designed to challenge students at their own pace, offering a safe and supportive environment for kids to explore their passions without feeling overwhelmed.

The best part? These online courses allow children from all over NYC (and beyond) to engage in high-quality enrichment learning that works for their unique learning styles and schedules, without having to worry about New York City traffic. Whether your child is passionate about STEM, the arts, humanities, or gaming, Young Scholars Academy offers a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach to learning that helps kids grow in their areas of interest and talent. Learn more about what Young Scholars has to offer 2e kids and their families here.

Conclusion

For families of twice-exceptional and gifted children, finding the right resources can be the key to helping your child reach their full potential. Whether you’re looking for educational therapists, support groups, or specialized schools, there are many neuro-affirming professionals and organizations in the greater NYC area that can help.

Each of these resources has been carefully selected based on recommendations from trusted colleagues who work closely with neurodivergent children and families.

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 NYC list?

What city should we explore next?

Let us know in the comments!

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