Center for Neurodiversity

05/21/2026

There’s a lot to look forward to at Franklin Academy in 2026–2027!

Join us for our next Virtual Information Session on Thursday, May 28 at 5:00 PM EST to learn what’s new, what’s growing, and how Franklin continues to support neurodivergent students through a college-preparatory experience built around academics, executive functioning, social learning, residential life, and meaningful connection.

Whether you are just beginning your search or considering next steps for the year ahead, this session is a great opportunity to discover what makes Franklin Academy different — and why our students are able to Belong. Grow. Succeed.

🔗 Register here: https://events.veracross.com/franklin_academy/15-vis-reg

04/22/2026

On Monday, we introduced you to Linda. Today, we’re highlighting the incredible service Linda provides through the Center for Neurodiversity:

At the Center for Neurodiversity, we know that connection, community, and shared experiences matter.

Through Community Gatherings & Events, Linda helps create spaces where neurodivergent individuals, families, advocates, and allies can come together in meaningful and enjoyable ways. Whether it’s a game night, open mic, virtual hangout, craft night, conversation group, or community outing, these gatherings are designed to build connection, encourage belonging, and make community feel more accessible and affirming.

Whether you’re hoping to meet new people, enjoy a shared interest, or simply find a space where you feel comfortable showing up as yourself, Linda’s gatherings are rooted in warmth, inclusion, and community.

➡️ On Friday, we’ll share how to connect with Linda and get involved!

04/20/2026

We’re excited to continue introducing the team behind the Center for Neurodiversity—today, meet Linda Bennet!

Linda brings a deep passion for community building to her work through the Center’s Community Gatherings & Events. Inspired by a lifetime of connection, creativity, and collaboration, Linda creates spaces where people can come together in ways that foster belonging, encouragement, and joy. With a background that spans science, mentoring, education, program development, conservation education, and over 20 years of building community, she understands the power of gathering with intention. Through her work, Linda helps create opportunities for neurodivergent individuals and families to connect, feel supported, and experience the kind of authentic community where everyone has a place.

Keep an eye out to learn more:
📅 Wednesdays: Learn more about the Service(s) that the staff member provides within the Center—what it is, who it’s for, and how it supports growth
📅 Fridays: How to sign up and schedule a call with the Center and/or the staff member!

04/17/2026

On Monday, we introduced you to Marina. On Wednesday, we shared more about her Occupational Therapy services through Franklin Academy’s Center for Neurodiversity. Now, we’re inviting you to take the next step.

If you are looking for neurodiversity-affirming support that helps build independence, strengthen daily living skills, and support success across settings, Marina is here to help.

Get started here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7K_rsKrLE-ERl5dwF0DZO7xQKQWi66ox0s6R_7zL1E-rNKQ/viewform

Limited availability for 2026–2027 is expected, so we encourage families to connect early.

Please complete this non-committal form if you are interested in learning more about Occupational Therapy through the Franklin Academy Center for Neurodiversity. Initial consults will be scheduled before official contracts are offered. If you have questions about the program, please contact Josh Aco...

04/15/2026

On Monday, we introduced you to Marina. Today, we’re highlighting the incredible service Marina provides through the Center for Neurodiversity:

At the Center for Neurodiversity, we believe Occupational Therapy should be neuro-affirming, person-centered, and grounded in each individual’s strengths!

Through Occupational Therapy, Marina supports children and adolescents in developing the skills they need to navigate everyday life with greater confidence and success. This work may include a comprehensive evaluation focused on sensory processing, emotional regulation, activities of daily living, and fine and visual motor skills, as well as ongoing treatment sessions and regulation support for parents, caregivers, and others across environments. Services are available in person or via telehealth.

Whether building regulation strategies, strengthening daily living skills, or creating supports that help each individual thrive across settings, Marina’s work is rooted in affirmation, collaboration, and whole-person support.

➡️ On Friday, we’ll share how to connect with Marina and get started!

04/14/2026

BIG NEWS!!

Gatherings is adding more spaces! Look for us in Middletown at CNTR on Thursday, April 30. For this first time in the new space we've decided to do something special. We're getting PIZZA and bringing a variety of games - check back soon for more details.

You can sign up and find out more details on our MeetUp page: https://www.meetup.com/gatherings-centerforneurodiversity/

04/13/2026

We’re excited to continue introducing the team behind the Center for Neurodiversity— today, meet Marina Scott!

Marina brings 24 years of Occupational Therapy experience to her work at the Center for Neurodiversity, where she supports children, adolescents, and young adults in developing the skills they need to navigate daily life more successfully. Her work focuses on sensory regulation, executive functioning, and daily living skills—critical areas that help neurodivergent individuals increase independence, build confidence, and access meaningful growth. Through thoughtful, individualized support, Marina helps students better understand themselves and develop practical strategies for school, home, and beyond.

Keep an eye out to learn more:
📅 Wednesdays: Learn more about the Service(s) that the staff member provides within the Center—what it is, who it’s for, and how it supports growth
📅 Fridays: How to sign up and schedule a call with the Center and/or the staff member!

04/10/2026

This week, we introduced you to Josh and highlighted his Neuro-Inclusive Mental Health Counseling through Franklin Academy’s Center for Neurodiversity.

Now, we’re making it easy to take the next step.

Designed to support neurodivergent individuals in exploring identity, building confidence, strengthening self-esteem, and finding agency and belonging, this counseling service offers a neuro-inclusive approach to mental health and personal growth.

To learn more or express interest, complete the inquiry form here:
https://forms.gle/HZciEBio674yizgj9

Availability is limited, and we encourage interested families to connect early for 2026–2027.

Please complete this non-committal form if you are interested in learning more about Neuro-Inclusive Mental Health Counseling through the Franklin Academy Center for Neurodiversity. Initial consults will be scheduled before official contracts are offered. If you have questions about the program, ple...

04/08/2026

On Monday, we introduced you to our Executive Director, Josh. Today, we’re highlighting the incredible service Josh provides through the Center for Neurodiversity:

At the Center for Neurodiversity, we believe mental health support should honor and affirm the full experience of being neurodivergent.

Through Neuro-Inclusive Mental Health Counseling, Josh helps individuals explore what it means to be neurodivergent in a world that is not always designed with neuro-inclusion in mind. This work centers on developing healthy self-esteem, confidence, personal identity, and agency — while also fostering connection, belonging, and community.

Whether navigating challenges, building self-understanding, or shaping a more empowered personal narrative, this counseling is rooted in affirmation, insight, and support.

➡️ On Friday, we’ll share how to connect with Josh and get started!

04/06/2026

We’re excited to introduce the team behind the Center for Neurodiversity—meet our Executive Director, Dr. Josh Acocella-Stollerman!

Josh is the Founding Executive Director of the Center for Neurodiversity, bringing a deep commitment to empowering Autistic and neurodiverse children, adolescents, and families. A clinical psychologist with extensive experience in evaluation, therapy, family support, and school consultation, he has served Franklin Academy in multiple leadership roles and now leads the Center with a person-centered, community-driven vision for impact.

Over the next few weeks, we’re spotlighting the people and programs that make the Center a powerful resource.

📅 Mondays: Meet the Staff!
📅 Wednesdays: Learn more about the Service(s) that the staff member provides within the center—what it is, who it’s for, and how it supports student growth
📅 Fridays: How to sign up and schedule a call with the Center and/or the staff member!

Stay tuned as we highlight the faces, services, and impact of the Center for Neurodiversity.