Where Pre-Teens Can Just Be
A low-pressure group for neurodivergent pre-teens who want connection without expectations.
Weekly connection for pre-teens with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, or just feeling different.
At Summit Ranch, we’ve created something different, because not every adolescent wants therapy, and not every space feels safe enough to be real.
This 8-week group is designed for neurodivergent preteens who are navigating school stress, social exhaustion, or just feeling out of step with the world around them. Here, they can connect, create, move, and breathe—no fixing, no judgment.
What the Group Is
This is a place where pre-teens can show up as themselves, build community, and explore through art, animals, and conversation—on their terms.
No pressure to speak
Activities like art, movement, and animal time
Conversation about things that actually matter to them (even if it’s Minecraft or K-Pop Demon Hunters).
What to Expect Each Week
Gentle arrival
Optional participation in structured discussion, collaborative activity + choice of activities
Consistent, weekly rhythm
Emotional safety and support
Is this the Right Space for your Teen?
Good Fit:
Are 9-12 years old
Identify as neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, etc.)
Feel out of place or burned out in traditional social settings
Mask in school but long for real connection
Enjoy animals, movement, creativity, or need low-pressure activities
Not a Fit:
Are younger than 9
Are in active crisis (e.g., severe self-harm or suicidal ideation)
Require 1:1 behavioral support or clinical supervision
Are currently aggressive or unsafe with peers or animals.
Facilitator Bio
Katie Black, M.Ed., is an executive function coach, MSW student, and longtime educator who brings both professional expertise and lived neurodivergent experience to her work.
Autistic and ADHD herself, Katie has spent over 20 years helping children and teens strengthen executive function skills like attention, organization, and emotional regulation. She combines deep research with creative, neurodivergent affirming strategies that make learning meaningful, movement based, and fun.
Katie collaborates closely with families to offer practical support that honors each child's unique brain and journey.
If you would like to learn more about Katie’s personal journey with neurodivergence, you can read her story here.