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Therapy For those labeled weird, strange, or different

experience genuine love and joy in being uniquely yourself

Understand and embrace your authenticity in a space where your differences are seen, valued, and affirmed.

Hermosa Beach and online for California Residents

Autism, ADHD, trauma and LGBTQ Affirming Therapy for all ages

you are:

overwhelmed
exhausted
shutdown
Anxious
Lonely
LOST
DIFFERENT

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neurodiversity and queer affirming therapy

a space where you belong

Affirming
Empowering
inclusive
validating
nurturing
accommodating
respectful

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neuroqueer affirming therapy is

Work with us

meet the team

Julia Gaw

she/her
LICENSED THERAPIST | REGISTERED ART THERAPIST
Neishamia Kayizzi

they/them
ASSOCIATE THERAPIST | PROVISIONAL ART THERAPIST
Amber Bliss

she/they
ASSOCIATE THERAPIST | PROVISIONAL ART THERAPIST
Marissa Barajas

they/she
ASSOCIATE THERAPIST | PROVISIONAL ART THERAPIST
Jenn Ortega

she/her
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Anya Kavanaugh

they/them
FOUNDER & OWNER | LICENSED THERAPIST | BOARD CERTIFIED ART THERAPIST

Meet us

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our specialties

Do you feel like the world wasn’t designed for how you think, feel, or process? It can be exhausting trying to mask who you are or feeling misunderstood in your relationships, work, or daily life. You deserve support that honors your unique needs and helps you build a life where you feel seen, valued, and at ease with yourself.
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Are you navigating the challenges of being queer in a world that often feels unwelcoming or even unsafe? Whether you’re processing identity, facing rejection, or searching for community, it’s hard to do it all on your own. You deserve a space where you can be completely yourself, find support for the struggles you face, and celebrate the beautiful, complex person you are.
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Do you feel stuck in survival mode, struggling with overwhelming memories, or constantly on edge? Trauma can leave deep wounds, but it doesn’t define who you are. With the right tools and support, you can learn to find safety, reconnect with yourself, and reclaim your life on your own terms.
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Do you feel like your unique partnership structure or neurotype often leads to misunderstanding or burnout? Negotiating boundaries in a polycule or bridging communication gaps in a neurodiverse relationship can feel exhausting. You and your partner(s) deserve a space that affirms your identities and structure while providing practical tools to strengthen connection, build sustainable systems, and thrive together.
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Do you struggle to put your feelings into words or feel overwhelmed by traditional therapy approaches? Art therapy offers a creative, nonjudgmental space to explore your emotions and experiences in new ways. You don’t need to be an artist—just open to discovering healing through creativity and self-expression.
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Are you looking for guidance in your work with neurodivergent or LGBTQIA+ clients? Whether you’re building confidence in your skills, navigating complex cases, or exploring new approaches, supervision and consultation offer you a safe, affirming space to learn and grow. Together, we can help you bring your best to your clients while honoring your own unique style.
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We understand that speed and accessibility are critical. We provide WPATH-aligned assessments and letters for hormones and surgery pro bono (free of charge) and can often complete the required documentation in a single, affirming session. Get the support you need quickly and respectfully.
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How it works

One

Reach ouT

Book a free consultation to discuss your needs and ensure a good fit. This is your time to ask questions and learn more about how we can support you.

two

Create Your Plan

Collaborate with your therapist to create a therapy plan tailored to your goals and experiences, including sessions, assessments, or other services.

three

FIND RELIEF

Start your sessions and begin your journey towards healing, self-discovery, and growth in a supportive and affirming environment.

reach out

Your Safe Space Awaits

book now to get started

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Practical Steps for lgbtq youth to Stay Safe in Challenging Situations

This free safety planning guide is designed specifically for LGBTQ+ teens facing harassment, bullying, or violence. It offers practical advice on building a support network, staying safe at school, home, and online, and preparing for emergencies. Whether you're navigating difficult situations or looking for ways to feel more secure, this guide can help you take small, meaningful steps toward safety and well-being.

read our recent POSTS

Blog

Unleashing Creativity: The Transformative Power of Art Therapy for Autistic, ADHD, Queer, and cPTSD Individuals

Discover how art therapy provides a safe, affirming space for autistic, ADHD, queer, and cPTSD individuals to heal, express, and thrive. By embracing creativity, art therapy empowers unique identities and fosters resilience through inclusive, trauma-informed care. Learn more about its transformative potential.

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Beyond Pronouns: The Essential Role of Gender Affirmation in Recognizing Unique Identities

Gender affirmation goes beyond pronouns; it’s about genuinely respecting someone’s self-perception and the unique, internal sense of who they are. Real affirmation recognizes gender as part of one’s identity, not the entirety of it, and invites us to understand our own gender assumptions. It’s a journey of empathy and ongoing respect, seeing each person as they wish to be seen.

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Empowering Teens: Recognizing the Signs of Control and Abuse in Relationships

Teen relationships play a critical role in shaping self-worth, emotional health, and future connections. This post explores the difference between abusive behaviors—such as isolation, peer pressure, and emotional manipulation—and healthy relationship dynamics rooted in trust, respect, and equality. By understanding these patterns, teens can build empowering, supportive relationships that promote mutual growth and well-being.

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Reparenting and Boundaries: Essential Steps in Healing from cPTSD

cPTSD is not about what’s wrong with you, but about what happened to you. It’s an understandable response to repeated injury. Healing from cPTSD is not linear; it’s a journey of unlearning the harmful lessons of trauma and relearning how to love yourself. The inner critic keeps us trapped, echoing the voices of our past, but self-compassion can begin to silence it. By embracing reparenting, setting healthy boundaries, and managing emotional flashbacks, those with cPTSD can move from merely surviving to truly thriving.

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The Unique Characteristics of the Autistic Nervous System: Fostering Self-Compassion and Effective Coping

The autistic nervous system processes the world in unique ways, often leading to heightened sensory experiences and challenges with emotional regulation. In this post, we explore how these differences shape daily life and offer practical strategies to create a more supportive environment. From sensory-friendly spaces to stress management techniques, learn how to empower the autistic nervous system for greater well-being.

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How to Manage Chronic Pain: Essential Strategies for Neurodivergent Individuals

Chronic pain can feel overwhelming, especially for neurodivergent individuals who face unique challenges in managing it. In this post, we explore practical strategies to help you navigate pain with more ease, focusing on mental health tools that honor your neurodivergent experience. Learn how to prioritize self-care, build resilience, and find relief on your terms.

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Embracing Neurodiversity: Challenging Neuronormative Myths and Creating Inclusive Spaces

In a world shaped by neuronormative standards, neurodivergent individuals often face misconceptions and barriers. This post explores the importance of challenging these myths and fostering inclusive spaces where neurodiversity is celebrated. Discover how embracing differences can lead to a more compassionate and equitable society.

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We’re Here to Support You Every Step of the Way

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Journey?

No matter where you are on your path, you deserve support that honors who you are and what you’re experiencing. Whether you’re seeking therapy, an affirming assessment, or professional guidance through consultation, we’re here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and begin a journey toward healing, growth, and self-empowerment.

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