Neurodiverse Family Group

The WHPS Neurodiversity Affinity Group is a family-focused community celebrating children who “think differently.” Our mission is to create an environment where diverse ways of thinking are seen as unique strengths to be embraced and nurtured. We warmly welcome and celebrate all forms of neurodiversity, including giftedness, ADHD, ASD, dyslexia, Down syndrome, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, epilepsy, chronic mental health conditions, language disorders, and more.

Learn More About the Group

Contact us at: N-Diversity@WHPSchool.com

Our Neurodiversity Affinity Group offers a supportive community designed specifically for parents and guardians of neurodivergent children. This group offers a wealth of resources and a network of fellow parents navigating similar journeys, with a focus on using a strengths-based approach to working with neurodiverse learners.

What We Offer:

  • Access to expert speakers covering relevant topics in parenting neurodivergent children, including managing parenting stress and overload and strategies for handling challenging times like tantrums and meltdowns.

  • Practical tools, guides, and strategies to help your child build resilience and thrive through middle school and beyond.

  • Planning for the future, with insights and guidance on supporting your child's transition into high school and beyond.

  • A space to share experiences, connect with others who understand your challenges, and gain insights tailored to your family's needs.

This Year’s Informational Workshop Presenters

  • Dr. Hilya is a pediatric psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children and teens to better understand their social, emotional, and learning needs. Her mission is to uncover the reasons behind a child's challenges and collaborate with parents to implement meaningful supports that foster growth and maximize potential. Dr. Hilya provides psycho-educational evaluations to identify learning, processing, or attentional issues, as well as autism, and uses her insights to tailor recommendations for each child's unique needs.

    In addition to evaluations, Dr. Hilya maintains a small therapy caseload, where her knowledge of brain-behavior relationships informs her approach to supporting children. She helps children develop self-management skills and offers strategies to address mood disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, or disruptive behaviors. Dr. Hilya also assists families in navigating school-based supports through collaboration with educators and attendance at IEP meetings.

    Dr. Hilya earned her bachelor's degree from UCLA, her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, and completed post-doctoral training in psycho-educational evaluations. In private practice since 2010, she is also the proud mother of two young daughters, which deepens her appreciation for the humbling journey of parenting.

  • Sharon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience specializing in the needs of children and adolescents. She uses art, play therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to create a safe space for young clients to express themselves in ways beyond words. Sharon's approach helps parents gain deeper insights into their children's experiences and implement positive changes at home to support their needs.

    Sharon is extensively trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and Gestalt Play Therapy, and her expertise spans a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, family conflict, and parenting challenges. In addition to her work with children, she enjoys helping couples strengthen their relationships by fostering healthy communication and deeper connection, which positively impacts the entire family.

    Sharon brings warmth, acceptance, curiosity, and honesty to each client and family. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Syracuse University and a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

  • Christine Henry is an expert Art Therapist with over 16 years of experience providing outpatient services to children, adolescents, families, and adults. Bilingual in Spanish, Christine values culturally sensitive care and acknowledges the diversity of families in Los Angeles. She is committed to cultural humility, offering a Queer Affirming/LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent safe space.

    Christine specializes in working with neurodivergent adults, including those on the Autism spectrum, helping them find balance and integrate their authentic selves through techniques focused on self-compassion, reflection, and small, positive changes. With children and families, Christine emphasizes that “children aren’t giving you a hard time, they’re having a hard time,” using individualized art and play therapy to enhance emotional regulation, communication, and coping skills. She also supports parents in strengthening parenting skills and fostering healthy attachment.

    Certified in several Evidence-Based Practices, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Managing and Adapting Practices (MAP), Christine also holds a Certificate in Play Therapy. A self-proclaimed Geek Therapist, she incorporates videogaming, pop culture, and technology into her sessions, using these tools to connect with clients and build healthy relationships.

    Christine earned her Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy with an emphasis in Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Spanish from the University of Redlands, and a post-graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from UC San Diego Extension. She also provides clinical supervision for therapists pursuing licensure.