Question 1

What is a neurodivergent-affirming therapist?

Accepted Answer

A neurodivergent-affirming therapist works from the understanding that ADHD, autism, and other neurotypes are natural variations of the human brain, not problems to solve. We focus on supporting regulation, honoring authentic communication, understanding sensory needs, and building self-advocacy without forcing eye contact, discouraging stimming, or rewarding masking.

Question 2

How do I find a neurodiversity-affirming child and family therapist in Falls Church, VA?

Accepted Answer

When looking for a neurodiversity-affirming therapist for your child or family, look beyond whether someone simply lists autism or ADHD as a specialty. An affirming therapist should seek to understand your child’s communication, sensory needs, emotions, and behavior rather than focusing on making them appear more ‘typical.’

Ask potential therapists how they understand stimming, sensory differences, emotional regulation, and behaviors that may feel difficult or concerning. You can also ask how they involve caregivers, individualize therapy around the child’s needs and strengths, and support harmless forms of self-expression and self-regulation. Training and experience supporting autistic children, children with ADHD, and other neurodivergent children are also important considerations.

At NeuroPlay Falls Church, I provide neurodiversity-affirming, play-based therapy for children ages 3–12 and their caregivers. I use Child-Centered Play Therapy and Filial Therapy/Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, incorporating AutPlay principles when appropriate. My approach emphasizes connection, acceptance, regulation, caregiver partnership, and understanding behavior as communication. Play therapy sessions are provided in person in Falls Church, Virginia. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to explore whether NeuroPlay may be a good fit for your child and family.

Question 3

How much does play therapy cost in Falls Church VA?

Accepted Answer

Individual therapy for children, teens, or caregivers is $175 for 60 minutes. Family therapy including Filial or CPRT sessions is $225 for 75 minutes or $250 for 90 minutes. Miranda Singer is an out-of-network provider who provides detailed superbills for potential insurance reimbursement. FSA and HSA accounts are accepted.

Question 4

Do you work with teens?

Accepted Answer

Yes! While Miranda specializes in play therapy for children ages 3-12, she also provides counseling for neurodivergent teens using talk therapy approaches such as CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing adapted for neurodivergent communication styles and sensory needs.

Question 5

How long does play therapy take?

Accepted Answer

Every child’s play therapy journey is different, and there isn’t a set number of sessions that works for every child. Nationally, the average course of play therapy is approximately 30–40 consistent sessions, though some children may need fewer or more depending on their needs, experiences, developmental stage, and family circumstances.

I typically meet with children weekly and partner with caregivers throughout the process. Rather than expecting change within a predetermined number of sessions, we look at progress over time and regularly discuss how therapy is supporting your child and family.

Play therapy often unfolds in recognizable stages as children build trust, explore emotions and experiences through play, and gradually integrate new ways of coping and relating. You can learn more in my guide, ‘Phases of Play Therapy: What Caregivers Can Expect.’