Frequently Asked Questions
About the Approach …
"Is this just permissive parenting in disguise?"
Not at all. We maintain clear boundaries while respecting your child's nervous system. There's a huge difference between accommodating neurodivergent needs and having no expectations. We're not removing all demands - we're being strategic about which demands are worth the activation they cause.
"Will this approach make my child more demanding or manipulative?"
Your child's nervous system responses aren't manipulation - they're protection. When children feel safer and more understood, they actually become more cooperative, not less. Better communication replaces meltdowns.
"What if my partner/family doesn't support this approach?"
Start with yourself. As family members witness the positive changes in your child's responses and your family stress levels, they often become more open to understanding. We provide resources for educating extended family members.
"How is this different from other autism parenting programs?"
Most programs focus on changing the child's behavior to fit neurotypical expectations. We focus on understanding your child's neurological needs and creating environments where they can thrive authentically. We're not trying to make your child appear more "normal" - we're helping them develop genuine skills while honoring their neurodivergent way of being.
About PDA …
"My child hasn't been formally diagnosed with PDA. Can these strategies still help?"
Absolutely. PDA isn't officially in diagnostic manuals yet, and many professionals aren't familiar with it. If your child shows demand-avoidance patterns, these strategies can be helpful regardless of formal diagnosis. The techniques work for any child with a sensitive nervous system.
"My child only shows PDA behaviours at home, not at school. Are they really PDA?"
This is incredibly common, especially for children who mask their struggles. Many PDA children appear compliant at school but fall apart at home because you're their safe person. This pattern actually supports a PDA understanding rather than contradicting it.
"Can children grow out of PDA?"
PDA is a neurological difference, not a phase. However, with proper support and understanding, children can develop better self-advocacy skills, emotional regulation, and coping strategies. The goal isn't to eliminate PDA traits but to help your child thrive with them.
About the program …
"What if my child has other diagnoses like ADHD, anxiety, or trauma?"
These approaches work beautifully alongside other conditions. We adapt strategies to your child's complete profile. Many times, what looks like separate conditions is actually one nervous system responding to different types of stress.
"Do you work with teenagers too?"
Yes! While the examples often focus on younger children, these principles work across all ages. Teenagers especially benefit from the collaborative respect approach and having their autonomy recognised.
"What if I try these strategies and they don't work?"
Every child is unique, and some situations require additional professional support. If you're not seeing improvements after consistent implementation, we can explore what additional support might be needed. Sometimes it's about timing, sometimes it's about finding the right combination of strategies."What if my child has other diagnoses like ADHD, anxiety, or trauma?"
These approaches work beautifully alongside other conditions. We adapt strategies to your child's complete profile. Many times, what looks like separate conditions is actually one nervous system responding to different types of stress.
About the practical concerns …
“Do you offer payment plans?"
Yes, payment plans are available by arrangement. Please contact me before booking to discuss options that work for your family's budget.
"What if my child is violent or aggressive?"
Safety always comes first. These strategies can help reduce aggression by addressing the underlying nervous system activation, but if there's immediate safety risk, please seek professional support first. I can work alongside your professional team once safety is established.