Parenting a neurodivergent child or teen can be exciting and richly rewarding, as well as
exhausting and isolating. Fathers may find themselves advocating at school, researching
supports, coordinating appointments, helping their child through big feelings, and caring for
everyone else, often with little time or energy left to keep themselves on track.
Held is a small, supportive counselling group for fathers raising neurodivergent children and
teens. You are welcome whether or not you identify as neurodivergent. The group also makes
space for the particular joys and challenges of parenting while navigating your own
neurodivergence.

Across six 90-minute sessions, fathers will share experiences, learn practical strategies, and
reflect on what might make family life more sustainable. There is no expectation to have
everything figured out. You can participate at your own pace, listen, ask questions, and connect

with men who understand the complexity of this journey. The aim is not perfect parenting, but
greater understanding, support, and room to breathe. Sessions blend discussion, practical
exercises, and reflection, with space to bring real-life situations and adapt ideas to your family's
needs. Share only what feels useful here.

Topics may include:
• Neurodiversity-affirming parenting and strengthening family relationships
• Growth mindset and supporting learning without overlooking real support needs
• Executive functioning: recognizing strengths and challenges in yourself and your child
• IFS-informed self-awareness and responding to parenting triggers with compassion
• Nervous-system regulation and supporting emotional wellbeing
• Burnout prevention, recovery, and sustainable self-care
• Boundaries, mental load, guilt, shame, and perfectionism
• Building practical supports and finding connection and community

A Circle of Oaks offers more than information. It is a chance to exhale, feel understood, and
discover that you do not have to carry everything alone. Through shared stories, reflection, and
mutual encouragement, participants can build meaningful connections and take away small,
realistic steps that support themselves, their children, and their families.

Facilitator
The group will be facilitated by Tavis du Preez, RCC, Registered Clinical Counsellor,
educator, ADHD specialist, and neurodivergent father of three neurodivergent
children. Tavis’ approach is neurodiversity-affirming, compassionate, and practical,
blending professional expertise with lived experience to create a space where fathers
feel genuinely understood, supported, and empowered.