Neurodiversity Program

Our Approach

At Visiting Counselors of New York, our Neurodiversity Program is dedicated to providing top-quality, in-home and telehealth counseling services for adults ages 21 and over who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual developmental disorder, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and chromosomal genetic disorders such as Down syndrome and Fragile X.

We understand that individuals living with disabilities often face a variety of psychosocial stressors throughout their lives, including bullying, feelings of isolation, and trauma. These experiences can lead to emotional and psychiatric impairments that negatively impact quality of life and hinder independence and happiness. Our licensed clinicians are committed to providing innovative, comprehensive therapeutic services to help enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and improve their overall functioning and wellness.

Our evidence-based, person-centered approach allows us to tailor our clinical interventions to meet the specific needs of each client. Our team of licensed clinicians will work with clients to identify and achieve self-identified goals, and provide them with the support and guidance they need to improve their overall emotional health and wellbeing. At VCNY Neurodiversity Program, we are proud to offer these essential services to those who may otherwise feel marginalized and without a confidential outlet to express themselves and receive the help they need.

 
 

Specialized Services and Clinical Interventions we Provide:

  • Talk therapy

  • Development/utilization of healthy coping tools

  • Communication skills training

  • Role modeling of appropriate social cues and skills

  • Anxiety/depression/stress/anger management techniques

  • Cognition reframing methods

  • Self-esteem, self-care skills, interpersonal skills training

  • Advocacy skills

  • Relaxation techniques

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

  • Social skills education/training

  • Human sexuality/sexual health education

  • Parent/caregiver training to assist with coaching and skills practice outside of session (with permission of client)

  • Using concrete examples to teach therapeutic tools

  • Tailoring strategies to the person’s developmental level

  • Use of visual aids, checklists, schedules, sensory materials

Criteria for Services:

  • Clients must be intellectually capable of participating in counseling independently with their clinician without the need for regular intervention from family members/caregiver in sessions (when applicable)

  • Clients must be 21 and older

  • Clients must reside in a private residence

  • Diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disability, chromosomal genetic disorder, or traumatic brain injury 

  • Clients must be non-violent, (hx of aggression can be discussed with referring provider to assess appropriateness)

  • Clients must be verbal or have minimal language deficits and be capable of engagement with our clinicians.

Please note:

  • Counseling services are provided on a voluntary basis

  • We currently accept Medicare Part B, Aetna, Cigna, and Humana