Pathological Demand Avoidance
Our team of clinicians, including psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists, has specialized experience supporting children and youth with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). We use a compassionate, flexible, and collaborative approach tailored to each child’s unique needs, focusing on reducing anxiety and supporting positive engagement. Some services may be covered by private insurance or OAP funding.
What is PDA?
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), sometimes referred to as Persistent Drive for Autonomy, describes a unique profile characterized by an intense need for autonomy and a strong resistance to demands. While PDA is not yet officially recognized as a separate diagnosis, we, along with many other professionals and advocates, acknowledge its distinct features and challenges. PDA is most commonly observed as part of the profile of autistic individuals, but not always.
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Learn more about PDA in our blog HERE!
Meet the need, not just the behaviour.
WonderTree Services for Pathological Demand Avoidance
Assessment
Are you wondering if you or your child is autistic? Or are you looking to further explore other aspects of your child’s profile, like the way their brain works or how they learn best?
Our clinical, school, and neuropsychologists can help.*
OR
Mental Health and Well being
Our child and youth therapy sessions provide a safe, supportive space for children with PDA to explore their feelings, build emotional regulation skills, and develop strategies to manage anxiety and control needs.
Our psychologists and social workers can help by working directly with your child or through parent coaching.
OR
Child Therapy
Parent Therapy
These services are not covered by OHIP, but may be covered under your extended health insurance benefits. Check with your insurance provider for details (here is a list of questions you can ask).
Educational Advocacy
We work closely with schools to help educators understand PDA and implement flexible, anxiety-reducing strategies in the classroom. Our clinicians assist with creating individualized support plans and advocating for accommodations that consider the unique needs of children with PDA.
OR
Occupational Therapy
Are you looking for support with sensory processing and regulation? Emotion regulation? Functional skill development for learning? Wondering how you can strengthen fine and gross motor skills?
Our Occupational Therapist (OT) has years of experience and is a mom of autistic youth/young adults that takes an affirming and individualized approach to care. We also have in-clinic Occupational Therapy in Orangeville, Ontario.
OR
Medication Support
It can be hard to access specialists that have knowledge of autism and co-occurring concerns when medication management is needed for things like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Not sure if medication is the right type of support and want someone who will take the time to understand your child and discuss your options in depth without a rush?
Our Nurse Practitioners have extensive experience in mental health and neurological concerns. You can schedule an in depth consultation with them and can have frequent follow up appointments.
OR
ADHD
Mental Health (anxiety, OCD, depression, etc.)
Contact Us
One of our family coordinators will return your call/e-mail within 2 business days. Our family coordinators will help determine which service provider would be the right fit and assist in scheduling your appointment.
905-425-9525
685 Riddell Rd., Unit 105
Orangeville, Ontario
L9W 4Z5