Autism Support Groups in Port Moody, BC

Is your child anxious? Every child deserves a life free of worries and full of joy. Though no matter how much reassurance you provide, the worrying thoughts of your child can become relentless in stealing the care-free spirit of their day. With helping your child understand what anxiety is, how it manifests and how they can manage it, they will have the tools and confidence to effectively curb that overwhelming pervasive feeling, they battle with.
Photo of Rubina Mangat - Rubina Mangat - SupportedGuidance.com , Counsellor, MA, RCC, NCC, BCBA
Hosted by Rubina Mangat - SupportedGuidance.com
Counsellor, MA, RCC, NCC, BCBA
Group meets in Port Moody, BC V3H
Is your child anxious? Every child deserves a life free of worries and full of joy. Though no matter how much reassurance you provide, the worrying thoughts of your child can become relentless in stealing the care-free spirit of their day. With helping your child understand what anxiety is, how it manifests and how they can manage it, they will have the tools and confidence to effectively curb that overwhelming pervasive feeling, they battle with.
(855) 642-8010 View (855) 642-8010
Does your child struggle with: * Initiating, joining or maintaining a conversation with peers? * Taking on the perspective of others when problem solving? * Increased anxiety in novel social situations? * Making and keeping friends * Handling peer rejection, teasing, bullying, rumors and gossip * Being assertive without being rude/bossy. GET SET. GET SOCIAL! Offers 3 groups. Teachings will be tailored to meet the needs of each group member. Intermediate and Advanced teaching will use PEERS curriculum - an evidenced based treatment. Primary groups will be taught using integrated evidenced based CBT and ABA approaches.
Photo of Rubina Mangat - Rubina Mangat - SupportedGuidance.com , Counsellor, MA, RCC, NCC, BCBA
Hosted by Rubina Mangat - SupportedGuidance.com
Counsellor, MA, RCC, NCC, BCBA
Group meets in Port Moody, BC V3H
Does your child struggle with: * Initiating, joining or maintaining a conversation with peers? * Taking on the perspective of others when problem solving? * Increased anxiety in novel social situations? * Making and keeping friends * Handling peer rejection, teasing, bullying, rumors and gossip * Being assertive without being rude/bossy. GET SET. GET SOCIAL! Offers 3 groups. Teachings will be tailored to meet the needs of each group member. Intermediate and Advanced teaching will use PEERS curriculum - an evidenced based treatment. Primary groups will be taught using integrated evidenced based CBT and ABA approaches.
(855) 642-8010 View (855) 642-8010

More Groups Nearby

Group for folks who identify as neuro-atypical to learn about a variety of topics (Nutrition, Emotions, Planning, Aging, Studying and more!) *Fall 2026*
Photo of Jenny Lynn Simpson, Counsellor, MA , RCC, BEd
Hosted by Jenny Lynn Simpson
Counsellor, MA , RCC, BEd
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V5L
Group for folks who identify as neuro-atypical to learn about a variety of topics (Nutrition, Emotions, Planning, Aging, Studying and more!) *Fall 2026*
(249) 496-3124 View (249) 496-3124
This process oriented therapy group at Pacific Maple Psych Centre in Vancouver, BC helps adults improve relationships, confidence, and emotional awareness through real time interaction with others. In a supportive and professionally guided setting, members explore communication patterns, practice new ways of relating, and receive honest feedback. Many people join to work on social anxiety, loneliness, relationship challenges, or difficulty connecting with others. Group therapy offers a unique opportunity to better understand how you relate to people and develop more satisfying, authentic connections.
Photo of Mickey Stein - Pacific Maple Psych Centre, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Pacific Maple Psych Centre
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V6C
Mickey Stein works with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, and developmental concerns including autism and ADHD.
This process oriented therapy group at Pacific Maple Psych Centre in Vancouver, BC helps adults improve relationships, confidence, and emotional awareness through real time interaction with others. In a supportive and professionally guided setting, members explore communication patterns, practice new ways of relating, and receive honest feedback. Many people join to work on social anxiety, loneliness, relationship challenges, or difficulty connecting with others. Group therapy offers a unique opportunity to better understand how you relate to people and develop more satisfying, authentic connections.
(604) 774-5501 View (604) 774-5501
We are a neuroaffirming group practice offering virtual therapy and consultation across most Canadian provinces. Our diverse team includes PhD-level therapists, clinical counsellors, social workers, and art therapists with advanced training in EMDR, DBT, narrative, and trauma-informed approaches. We support youth, adults, and fellow therapists through compassionate, identity-affirming care. Grounded in lived experience and critical reflection, we approach each modality in a neuroaffirming way that centers authenticity, collaboration, and respect. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your family, or your practice, we provide an inclusive space to explore challenges, build skills, and foster growth.
Photo of Alisha Stubbs, Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, PhD(c)
Hosted by Alisha Stubbs
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, PhD(c)
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V6Z
We also consult with fellow therapists seeking to grow in neurodivergent-affirming, trauma-informed care.
We are a neuroaffirming group practice offering virtual therapy and consultation across most Canadian provinces. Our diverse team includes PhD-level therapists, clinical counsellors, social workers, and art therapists with advanced training in EMDR, DBT, narrative, and trauma-informed approaches. We support youth, adults, and fellow therapists through compassionate, identity-affirming care. Grounded in lived experience and critical reflection, we approach each modality in a neuroaffirming way that centers authenticity, collaboration, and respect. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your family, or your practice, we provide an inclusive space to explore challenges, build skills, and foster growth.
(226) 455-1444 View (226) 455-1444
parenting is the hardest job on earth! parenting NDers in a world not built for brains like theres? that's next level! if you're tired of feeling judged and overwhelmed, this group's for you! both psychoeducational and process based, this space is for parents looking to better understand and support kids/youth/young adults with big feelings -- they may have labels like PDA, AuDHD, BPD and others. each week will focus on a different topic or theme connected to parenting and neurodivergence; participants will be invited to share and explore together. **now accepting applications for feb 2025 group**
Photo of Candida Moreira, Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Hosted by Candida Moreira
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Group meets in New Westminster, BC V3M
i offer steady, non-pathologizing support for queer folks, trauma survivors, and neurodivergent souls who've been told they're too much, too sensitive, too confusing
parenting is the hardest job on earth! parenting NDers in a world not built for brains like theres? that's next level! if you're tired of feeling judged and overwhelmed, this group's for you! both psychoeducational and process based, this space is for parents looking to better understand and support kids/youth/young adults with big feelings -- they may have labels like PDA, AuDHD, BPD and others. each week will focus on a different topic or theme connected to parenting and neurodivergence; participants will be invited to share and explore together. **now accepting applications for feb 2025 group**
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At Arches Counselling our mission is to provide therapy that is respectful, validating, and collaborative. What matters to us is that you have an experience of compassionate curiosity. Together we will determine the best approach of support to improve the quality of your life, as decided by you. Arches Counselling strives to empower you to navigate your situation and not the other way around. This is a space to connect with clarity, confidence, and compassion. We acknowledge seeking help may have included your experiences being silenced, invalidated, and judged. We welcome you with validation and compassionate curiosity.
Photo of Akeiko Rawn, Counsellor, MNTCW, RCC, ACS
Hosted by Akeiko Rawn
Counsellor, MNTCW, RCC, ACS
Group meets in White Rock, BC V4B
Currently, offering workshops around PDA and neurodivergent affirming care.
At Arches Counselling our mission is to provide therapy that is respectful, validating, and collaborative. What matters to us is that you have an experience of compassionate curiosity. Together we will determine the best approach of support to improve the quality of your life, as decided by you. Arches Counselling strives to empower you to navigate your situation and not the other way around. This is a space to connect with clarity, confidence, and compassion. We acknowledge seeking help may have included your experiences being silenced, invalidated, and judged. We welcome you with validation and compassionate curiosity.
(778) 403-4837 View (778) 403-4837
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support teens in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun. Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Run by a RCC, and may be claimable through extended medical or AFU. Join us for 7 weekly sessions - Starting May 4th (afternoons on Thursday, or daytime on Tuesdays)
Photo of Chloe Storrey, Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Hosted by Chloe Storrey
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Group meets in North Vancouver, BC V7P
I work with neurodivergent adults who are looking for a space that truly gets it.
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support teens in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun. Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Run by a RCC, and may be claimable through extended medical or AFU. Join us for 7 weekly sessions - Starting May 4th (afternoons on Thursday, or daytime on Tuesdays)
(431) 244-0640 View (431) 244-0640
come meet others whose brain works like yours! in this group you will learn to identify, express and take charge of your emotions. through conversation, art and expressive exercises, you will learn to better understand your emotional needs and limits and to identify patterns of reactivity. you'll have a chance to meet others who like you feel things deeply. being part of a group helps you learn more about yourself and your relationships with others. groups run year round for both youth and adults. **feb group FULL. reach out to join waitlist for april 2025 group**
Photo of Candida Moreira, Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Hosted by Candida Moreira
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Group meets in New Westminster, BC V3M
i offer steady, non-pathologizing support for queer folks, trauma survivors, and neurodivergent souls who've been told they're too much, too sensitive, too confusing
come meet others whose brain works like yours! in this group you will learn to identify, express and take charge of your emotions. through conversation, art and expressive exercises, you will learn to better understand your emotional needs and limits and to identify patterns of reactivity. you'll have a chance to meet others who like you feel things deeply. being part of a group helps you learn more about yourself and your relationships with others. groups run year round for both youth and adults. **feb group FULL. reach out to join waitlist for april 2025 group**
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The Parent Circle is an online support group for parents & caregivers raising children & youth who are divergent. We meet once per month on the 2nd Monday of each month. If there is enough interest, we can move to in-person. To learn more or register for this group, please email NorthShore Counselling & Wellness at: hello@nscw.ca, and please add in the email title: "The Parent Circle."
Photo of Heather Carrell, Counsellor, RTC, MPCC-P, CCPA
Hosted by Heather Carrell
Counsellor, RTC, MPCC-P, CCPA
Group meets in North Vancouver, BC V7J
The Parent Circle is an online support group for parents & caregivers raising children & youth who are divergent. We meet once per month on the 2nd Monday of each month. If there is enough interest, we can move to in-person. To learn more or register for this group, please email NorthShore Counselling & Wellness at: hello@nscw.ca, and please add in the email title: "The Parent Circle."
(428) 308-6198 View (428) 308-6198
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support teens in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun. Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Run by a RCC, and may be claimable through extended medical or AFU. Join us for 7 weekly sessions - Starting May 4th (afternoons on Monday daytime on Tuesdays)
Photo of Chloe Storrey, Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Hosted by Chloe Storrey
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Group meets in North Vancouver, BC V7P
I work with neurodivergent adults who are looking for a space that truly gets it.
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support teens in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun. Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Run by a RCC, and may be claimable through extended medical or AFU. Join us for 7 weekly sessions - Starting May 4th (afternoons on Monday daytime on Tuesdays)
(431) 244-0640 View (431) 244-0640
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support teens in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun. Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Run by a RCC, and may be claimable through extended medical or AFU. Join us for 7 weekly sessions - Starting May 5th (Daytime on Tuesdays)
Photo of Chloe Storrey, Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Hosted by Chloe Storrey
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Group meets in North Vancouver, BC V7P
I work with neurodivergent adults who are looking for a space that truly gets it.
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support teens in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun. Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Run by a RCC, and may be claimable through extended medical or AFU. Join us for 7 weekly sessions - Starting May 5th (Daytime on Tuesdays)
(431) 244-0640 View (431) 244-0640

Online Groups

At Vancouver Island Child, Youth & Family Counselling Services, we help children, teens, and families thrive. Our diverse team offers play therapy, art therapy, and parent support in person or online. We work with funders like AFU, CVAP, MCFD, and FNHA. Contact us to get started!
Photo of Favour Onwuka - Nurtured with Favour Counselling, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Hosted by Nurtured with Favour Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
I accept insurance from most providers, including Autism Funding.
At Vancouver Island Child, Youth & Family Counselling Services, we help children, teens, and families thrive. Our diverse team offers play therapy, art therapy, and parent support in person or online. We work with funders like AFU, CVAP, MCFD, and FNHA. Contact us to get started!
(438) 805-9756 View (438) 805-9756
HELD is a supportive group for mothers raising neurodivergent youth. We understand that parenting an ND child can bring unique joys, challenges, and demands, HELD offers a space where mothers can feel understood, supported, and less alone. Through a neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based lens, we explore topics such as parental overwhelm and burnout, nervous system regulation, self-care, boundaries, guilt and self-criticism, and specialized parenting support. Together, we build connection, strengthen self-understanding, and develop realistic strategies that support both your well-being and your family.
Photo of Mary Klovance, Counsellor, RCC, MA, BEd, BA
Hosted by Mary Klovance
Counsellor, RCC, MA, BEd, BA
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8V
HELD is a supportive group for mothers raising neurodivergent youth. We understand that parenting an ND child can bring unique joys, challenges, and demands, HELD offers a space where mothers can feel understood, supported, and less alone. Through a neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based lens, we explore topics such as parental overwhelm and burnout, nervous system regulation, self-care, boundaries, guilt and self-criticism, and specialized parenting support. Together, we build connection, strengthen self-understanding, and develop realistic strategies that support both your well-being and your family.
(778) 906-8626 View (778) 906-8626
Life’s “dragons” can include overwhelming emotions, anxiety, conflict, stress, relationship challenges, and uncertainty. This therapeutic Dungeons & Dragons group combines collaborative storytelling with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness skills. Through roleplay, teamwork, and problem-solving, participants practice managing emotions, coping with stress, communicating effectively, and making thoughtful decisions. While the adventures take place in a fantasy world, the skills connect directly to everyday life, helping participants build emotional awareness, resilience, confidence, coping skills, and social connection in a safe and engaging environment.
Photo of Mary Klovance, Counsellor, RCC, MA, BEd, BA
Hosted by Mary Klovance
Counsellor, RCC, MA, BEd, BA
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8V
Life’s “dragons” can include overwhelming emotions, anxiety, conflict, stress, relationship challenges, and uncertainty. This therapeutic Dungeons & Dragons group combines collaborative storytelling with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness skills. Through roleplay, teamwork, and problem-solving, participants practice managing emotions, coping with stress, communicating effectively, and making thoughtful decisions. While the adventures take place in a fantasy world, the skills connect directly to everyday life, helping participants build emotional awareness, resilience, confidence, coping skills, and social connection in a safe and engaging environment.
(778) 906-8626 View (778) 906-8626
Colour Wheel specializes  in child and youth therapy. We also support families and help parents learn to better understand their children and to develop a strong relationship based on attunement, attachment, and co-regulation.  We offer clinical supervision and consultation for neurodivergent and disabled practitioners or for those wanting to learn more about neuro-affirming practices, art therapy, or play therapy interventions. We use a client-centered, strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming approach to address therapeutic goals such as increased insight, emotional expression, regulation,  executive functioning and self-advocacy.
Photo of Kathryn Lee Schmidt - Colour Wheel Counselling and Supervision , Counsellor, MA, CCS, RCAT-S
Hosted by Colour Wheel Counselling and Supervision
Counsellor, MA, CCS, RCAT-S
Group meets in Comox, BC V9M
Colour Wheel specializes  in child and youth therapy. We also support families and help parents learn to better understand their children and to develop a strong relationship based on attunement, attachment, and co-regulation.  We offer clinical supervision and consultation for neurodivergent and disabled practitioners or for those wanting to learn more about neuro-affirming practices, art therapy, or play therapy interventions. We use a client-centered, strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming approach to address therapeutic goals such as increased insight, emotional expression, regulation,  executive functioning and self-advocacy.
(819) 809-2376 View (819) 809-2376
At Seasons Family Centre, we provide a family-centred space for healing and growth. Whether seeking therapy, assessments, or support, our team is here for you. Our mission is to nurture families through life’s seasons with care, guidance, and resilience.
Photo of Favour Onwuka - Nurtured with Favour Counselling, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Hosted by Nurtured with Favour Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8X
I accept insurance from most providers, including Autism Funding.
At Seasons Family Centre, we provide a family-centred space for healing and growth. Whether seeking therapy, assessments, or support, our team is here for you. Our mission is to nurture families through life’s seasons with care, guidance, and resilience.
(438) 805-9756 View (438) 805-9756
Do you want to connect with others on the autism journey? Join our virtual support group for adults with autism spectrum disorder ( ASD) to connect with others and feel included and accepted. This group is a safe space to share your experiences and find new strategies. Brittany, a registered clinical counsellor, will lead the group and provide helpful insights about ASD brain functions and behaviors to support everyone in achieving positive outcomes.
Photo of Brittany Hesketh, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Hosted by Brittany Hesketh
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Group meets in Nanaimo, BC V9R
Do you want to connect with others on the autism journey? Join our virtual support group for adults with autism spectrum disorder ( ASD) to connect with others and feel included and accepted. This group is a safe space to share your experiences and find new strategies. Brittany, a registered clinical counsellor, will lead the group and provide helpful insights about ASD brain functions and behaviors to support everyone in achieving positive outcomes.
(867) 292-1924 View (867) 292-1924
The Whole Cutlery Drawer | Ages 16+ Wednesdays 6–7:30 PM | Virtual or In Person | Across Canada- Virtual & In Person - Victoria, BC | The Whole Cutlery Drawer is a disability support group for anyone living with disability — visible or hidden, new or old. Together, we explore Spoon Theory and expand beyond it into "The Whole Cutlery Drawer,” creating shared space for capacity, care, burnout, access & mutual understanding. This is a space to welcome all of your utensils, so If you feel like your utensils belong here, you’re warmly invited to join us. To sign up or ask questions, contact Dizzy
Photo of Dizzy Feehan, Counsellor, MC, BCYC, RCC, CCC
Hosted by Dizzy Feehan
Counsellor, MC, BCYC, RCC, CCC
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8T
I center my practice on queer support (sex, gender, identity, transition, hormone & surgery readiness), relationships (monogamy & ethical non-monogamy), families (IFS, narrative therapy), neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, body doubling), disabilities, injuries chronic pain & illness, mood fluctuations & life transitions.
The Whole Cutlery Drawer | Ages 16+ Wednesdays 6–7:30 PM | Virtual or In Person | Across Canada- Virtual & In Person - Victoria, BC | The Whole Cutlery Drawer is a disability support group for anyone living with disability — visible or hidden, new or old. Together, we explore Spoon Theory and expand beyond it into "The Whole Cutlery Drawer,” creating shared space for capacity, care, burnout, access & mutual understanding. This is a space to welcome all of your utensils, so If you feel like your utensils belong here, you’re warmly invited to join us. To sign up or ask questions, contact Dizzy
(873) 514-7012 View (873) 514-7012

See more therapy options for Port Moody

Autism Support Groups
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.