Autistic Peer Connections
Being able to connect with and build community with other Autistics is essential to developing a healthy Autistic identity. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to find other Autistics that you connect with since just because you’re both Autistic, it doesn’t mean that you will get along with each other! One of the best ways to connect with other Autistics is to find people who share your interests – it’s much easier to socialize and feel confident when you are talking about something you are interested in! This resource lists a variety of ways to connect with other Autistics through shared interests. [Neurodivergent Counselling Services has no affiliation with these groups and we cannot take responsibility for whether you have a positive experience, so please listen to your gut instincts if the group doesn’t feel like it aligns with your values or expectations]
Social Platforms
Facebook Groups
- 2.0 Redefining Autism – Neurodiverse Families in BC
- Canadian PDA – Pathological Demand Avoidance
- Autistic Women Support Group | LGBTQ+ Inclusive | Safe Place
- Mums on the Spectrum
- Intersectional Neurodivergent Cleaning Crew
- Autistic Adults with ADHD
- Neurodiversity Affirmative Therapists (therapists only)
- Canadian Neurodiversity Affirming Therapists (therapists only)
Peer Support Groups
- AANE: various adult and teen support groups
- AHA! ADHD Peer Support Group (adults, ADHD-specific)
- WAM – Women with ADHD meetup (adults, ADHD-specific)
- Neurodivergknit: free knitting classes in the Lower Mainland
- Canucks Autism Network: virtual youth & adult programs
- Autism BC: a list of community support groups
- BCTF: monthly Neurodivergent Teachers Meet-up
Therapist-run Groups
- Shauna Kaendo: Art Therapy Neurodivergent Support Groups (adults)
- Samantha McGee, RCC: groups for newly identified Autistic adults and lunch & learns about neurodivergent issues
- Candida Moreira, RCC: groups for parents of neurodivergent kids/teens and emotionally exuberant people
- Dori Zener & Associates: Good Company (women/non-binary adults), Chilling on the Spectrum (age 18-29), Navigating Work (adults), Rainbow Spectrum Pride (adults)
- Scattergram Counselling & Consulting: The ND Room (grades 7-12) and A.C.C.E.P.T. Group for Neurodivergent Adults > 30 (adults)
- Mud Club OT (uses Minecraft): Adventures (age 7-12), Mentors (age 12-16), Quest VR (age 13-18)