ADHD & Autism Therapy for Children, Teens, and Young Adults in Portland, OR

Please note: Dr. Naomi Wright does not offer Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy.

Understanding Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is a natural part of human diversity. It refers to differences in how people think, learn, process information, communicate, regulate emotions, and experience the world. Neurodivergent individuals may have diagnoses such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), though every person's strengths, challenges, and experiences are unique.

Many neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults face difficulties related to executive functioning, organization, emotional regulation, attention, sensory sensitivities, social relationships, school demands, or self-esteem. These challenges often become more manageable when individuals better understand their brains, receive appropriate support, and develop strategies that work for them. Rather than focusing on "fixing" neurodivergence, my goal is to help clients thrive while honoring their unique strengths and ways of experiencing the world.

Neurodiversity-Affirming, Evidence-Based Support

As a child and adolescent psychologist in Portland, OR, I provide neurodiversity-affirming therapy for children, teens, and young adults with ADHD, autism, and other developmental differences.

My approach begins with understanding each individual's strengths, interests, values, and goals. Together, we identify practical strategies to support challenges related to attention, executive functioning, emotional regulation, anxiety, social relationships, school stress, self-advocacy, and daily living skills.

I draw from evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), parent coaching, and family-based interventions. Treatment is adapted to each person's developmental level, sensory needs, communication style, and learning preferences.

Because neurodivergent individuals frequently experience anxiety, depression, OCD, sleep difficulties, school avoidance, or challenges related to identity and belonging, therapy may also address these concerns within a neurodiversity-affirming framework.

Parent Support and Collaboration

Parents and caregivers are often important partners in treatment. I provide education, consultation, and coaching to help families better understand neurodivergence, support emotional regulation, reduce conflict, and advocate effectively at home, school, and in the community.

The goal is not to make a child appear more neurotypical. Instead, we focus on building skills, reducing distress, increasing self-understanding, and creating environments where children and teens can succeed as their authentic selves.

What to Expect During Therapy

Therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment of your child's strengths, challenges, developmental history, goals, and current concerns. Together, we create a treatment plan that reflects your child's unique needs and priorities.

Treatment may focus on:

• Executive functioning skills

• Organization and planning

• Emotional regulation

• Attention and focus

• Social relationships

• Self-esteem and self-advocacy

• Anxiety and stress management

• Sensory sensitivities

• School-related challenges

• Family communication and support

The goal of therapy is to help children, teens, and young adults better understand themselves, build confidence, develop effective coping skills, and create lives that align with their strengths and values.