Neurodiversity Support for Children, Inc. (NSC) is a Massachusetts nonprofit charitable corporation and is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax exempt public charity. The mission of NSC is to empower and support the values, strengths, and mental health needs of neurodiverse children by providing access to neuropsychological evaluations, research-supported mental health therapy, and advocacy services. NSC helps families access these services through financial assistance and educational resources.

Dr. Jillian Bennett, founder of Neurodiversity Support for Children (NSC), was exposed to disparities in healthcare from a young age. She worked to put herself through school and was the first in her family to graduate college. The resiliency and strength of her own family propelled her forward to obtain a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and a certification as a behavior analyst. She established her own practice in 2017, with the goal of providing the kind of quality services that neurodiverse children and families need, including services that are empirically supported and effective, and care that is compassionate and comprehensive. 

Many neurodiverse children (and parents) have social, emotional, and/or behavioral vulnerabilities that put them at higher risk for mental health challenges. Dr. Bennett is passionate about advocating and supporting these families. However, some families cannot access needed services due to the financial barriers. Other families do not have the education or experience to know the type of therapy, evaluations, and/or other services that their child may need. Even worse, some families spend thousands of dollars on “therapy” that is not effective, leaving them with an even greater financial burden.

Neurodiversity is the recognition that variations in human brain functioning represent differences that are an important part of diversity and bring value to our community. Cognitive, learning, social-emotional, and behavioral differences can result in specific challenges related to autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neuropsychological profiles, which allow specific strengths and gifts to emerge. At NSC, we believe that when challenges are met with compassion, understanding, accommodations, and inclusive support, neurodivergent children can thrive. NSC is a board of passionate parents and professionals who understand neurodiversity on a personal level and work hard to support families through their individual journeys.