Notes:
Please pay close attention to event dates. If you are interested in participating, you may need to register or RSVP at least one week prior to the event starting. We will be working with our teachers and presenters at that time to see if enrollment warrants cutting off registration or possibly canceling the event. We appreciate your understanding.
Child Care is available for many events. Please follow the links in the event description to register.
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Parent Night - Topic -TBA
Dr. Paul Beljan
Topic - Posting soon
Paul Beljan, PsyD, ABPdN, ABN
Neuropsychologist & Founder, Beljan Psychological Services
Dr. Beljan is a pediatric and adult neuropsychologist specializing in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of neuropsychological disorders. He has lectured nationally and internationally (Netherlands, Czech Republic, Belgium, Ireland, Argentina, Mexico and Canada) on topics of giftedness, ADHD, executive functioning, developmental disorders, learning disorders and neurocognitive therapy. Dr. Beljan has published research on of neurocognitive intervention and math learning disorder.
Free for parents and caregivers!
RSVP - https://forms.gle/dD2A9wXDvtnkpnt66
Game Time Child Care - $15 - Register on our Courses & Classes Page
Please bring your questions and be ready to enjoy a fun evening of learning!
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Bright Sparks! Grades K-1 Meet The Teacher Coffee Chat
Meet the Teacher Coffee Chat
Hello. ! I'm Linda Henley-Smith, Mrs. Red, and I would love to be your child's teacher.
I've spent my whole career, over 20 years of teaching, helping children fall in love with learning. With degrees in both Education and Music, I've taught in classrooms across Arizona and trained teachers throughout the country. Along the way, I've written children's books, created an Arizona studies curriculum now used in schools statewide, and developed curriculum for educators at the university level. But at the end of the day, my favorite place has always been right beside a curious child, watching the spark when something clicks.
I believe learning should feel like an adventure. In my classroom, a great story can open the door to science, art, music, and big questions, and children learn best when they're making, exploring, singing, and discovering rather than sitting still. I bring warmth and a steady, joyful structure to the room, so every child feels safe enough to take risks, stretch their thinking, and follow the things that light them up.
Working with bright young learners is a genuine privilege. These are children brimming with ideas, questions, and imagination, and they deserve a teacher who can keep pace with their curiosity while nurturing their hearts along with their minds. That's exactly what I hope to do here, to help each child grow not just as a learner, but as a confident, creative, wonderfully whole little person.
I'd love the chance to meet you and your child and tell you more about our program. Please come say hello, reach out anytime to set up a time to chat. I can't wait to hear about your little learner and share what makes this place so special.
- Mrs. Red
Parent Night - Being Gifted is Challenging!
Join us for our first guest speaker of the Fall!
Being Gifted is Challenging! with Christopher J. Nicholls, Ph.D.
Join us for a parent talk exploring giftedness and twice-exceptionality, including what it means to be gifted and how giftedness can intersect with other learning and mental health needs. We’ll discuss twice-exceptionality as an educational concept and most importantly, explore why anxiety, ADHD, and other challenges shouldn’t be dismissed as simply part of being gifted. The goal is to celebrate children’s intelligence and talents while also recognizing and addressing the areas where they need support.
Dr. Nicholls is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist with 40+ years of experience across medical centers, teaching hospitals, and private practice. A Fellow of the American Psychological Association and National Academy of Neuropsychology, he holds diplomate status from the American Board of Professional Psychology and the American Board of Pediatric Neuropsychology. He's a published author of two books and numerous articles, a frequent speaker at local, national, and international conferences, and a former President of the Arizona Psychological Association. He specializes in diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders (learning disabilities, ADHD, autism) as well as personal injury and trauma-related conditions.
Tuesday September 22nd at 5:30pm
Free for parents and caregivers!
RSVP - https://forms.gle/dD2A9wXDvtnkpnt66
Game Time Child Care - $15 - Register on our Courses & Classes Page
Please bring your questions and be ready to enjoy a fun evening of learning!
Bright Sparks! Grades K-1 Meet The Teacher
Join us a little early before for our guest Speaker Dr. Nicholls, and meet the teacher of our new Bright Sparks Microschool Program!
Hello. ! I'm Linda Henley-Smith, Mrs. Red, and I would love to be your child's teacher.
I've spent my whole career, over 20 years of teaching, helping children fall in love with learning. With degrees in both Education and Music, I've taught in classrooms across Arizona and trained teachers throughout the country. Along the way, I've written children's books, created an Arizona studies curriculum now used in schools statewide, and developed curriculum for educators at the university level. But at the end of the day, my favorite place has always been right beside a curious child, watching the spark when something clicks.
I believe learning should feel like an adventure. In my classroom, a great story can open the door to science, art, music, and big questions, and children learn best when they're making, exploring, singing, and discovering rather than sitting still. I bring warmth and a steady, joyful structure to the room, so every child feels safe enough to take risks, stretch their thinking, and follow the things that light them up.
Working with bright young learners is a genuine privilege. These are children brimming with ideas, questions, and imagination, and they deserve a teacher who can keep pace with their curiosity while nurturing their hearts along with their minds. That's exactly what I hope to do here, to help each child grow not just as a learner, but as a confident, creative, wonderfully whole little person.
I'd love the chance to meet you and your child and tell you more about our program. Please come say hello, reach out anytime to set up a time to chat. I can't wait to hear about your little learner and share what makes this place so special.
- Mrs. Red
Social Skills Group with Parent Group
Monthly Social Skills Group for Twice-Exceptional Children
with a Concurrent Free Parent Support Group
A collaborative program hosted at The Gifted Collective
Program Overview
This program offers a monthly, evening social skills group designed for gifted and twice-exceptional children whose social-emotional development lags behind their intellectual ability most often children on the autism spectrum, but also children who show autism traits without a formal diagnosis and children with another diagnosed learning disability (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a specific learning disorder) alongside giftedness. General social-skills programming rarely accounts for this combination. This group pairs clinical expertise in autism and social-emotional development with a specialized understanding of gifted development, giving children a consistent space to build social skills alongside peers who share similar developmental and social profiles.
The group is co-facilitated by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with autistic and gifted children and families, and by Adam Laningham, owner and founder of The Gifted Collective, who specializes in special education and working with gifted students. A free, concurrent support group gives parents and caregivers their own space to connect and gain support while their child is in group.
Program Goals
• Social skill-building: Build explicit, developmentally appropriate social communication and perspective-taking skills.
• Peer navigation: Practice navigating friendships, conflict, and social misunderstandings in a supportive setting.
• Emotional regulation: Strengthen self-regulation and emotional awareness within social situations.
• Peer connection: Foster genuine connection with same-neurotype peers, reducing isolation and social anxiety.
• Self-advocacy: Support self-understanding and self-advocacy around being autistic and gifted.
• Family support: Equip parents and caregivers with community, tools, and support through the concurrent parent group.
Who This Group Serves
Children generally ages 8–13 who are gifted or twice-exceptional and who have an autism diagnosis, show autism traits without a formal diagnosis, or have another diagnosed learning disability (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or another specific learning disorder). A brief intake conversation with the facilitators is required before enrollment to confirm fit and give each child the best chance of success in the group. If enrollment is high, the group can be split into two age bands (e.g., 8–10 and 11–13) or by profile to keep developmental levels and needs close within each cohort.
Expanded eligibility: the group is not limited to children with a formal autism diagnosis.
• Undiagnosed autism traits: Children who show social-communication differences or autism-spectrum traits — including those currently in the evaluation process or on a waitlist for one — may enroll without a formal diagnosis. Because the curriculum draws on autism-informed strategies, intake will focus on whether the group's approach is a good match for the child.
• Other diagnosed learning disabilities: Children with a diagnosed learning disability other than autism (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or an executive functioning disorder) who are also gifted or twice-exceptional may enroll, provided intake confirms that their social-emotional and communication needs fit the group's format and peer group.
• Fit determines placement, not label: Eligibility is based on whether a child can meaningfully engage in a group built around autism-informed social skills strategies, not on diagnostic label alone. The LPC facilitator makes the final determination at intake and may recommend a different resource if this group isn't the right match.
Program Structure
• Format: Closed cohort: the same group of children meets each month for continuity and trust-building.
• Duration: 8 sessions across the school year, held once each month in September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May (no session in December, June, July, or August).
• Session length: 1 hour per session (children's group and parent group run concurrently).
• Group size: Limited to 6–8 children so each child gets individualized attention and coaching.
• Location: The Gifted Collective.
Sessions
Session 1 -Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Session 3 - Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Session 4 - Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Session 5 - Tuesday, February 9, 2027
Session 6 - Tuesday, March 9, 2027
Session 7 - Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Session 8 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Facilitation Team
Stephen Sommers, LPC — Clinical Facilitator
A Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in autism and giftedness/twice-exceptionality. Brings clinical training in social-emotional development, evidence-informed social skills curricula, and group facilitation experience with autistic and gifted children.
Adam C Laningham — Co-Facilitator & Host Site Director
Owner and Founder of The Gifted Collective. Specializes in special education and working with gifted students, contributing expertise in gifted cognitive and educational needs so the group's approach addresses the whole child — not just the autism piece or the giftedness piece in isolation.
Concurrent Parent Support Group (Free)
While their children are in group, parents and caregivers meet in a separate space at The Gifted Collective for a free, facilitated support group running the same evening and same length as the children's group. Topics may include navigating 2e identification and school advocacy (IEPs/504 plans), understanding the intersection of autism and giftedness, coping strategies, and connecting with other parents on a similar path. There is no fee for this group, and it is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the children's group. Mr. Sommers will be the primary facilitator of the children’s group and Mr. Laningham will be the primary facilitator of the parent group though they with rotate for a limited time for questions and support in both groups.
Costs
Single Session (pay as you go) - $75 / session
Full Program — All 8 Sessions (paid in full at registration) - $500 flat
• Package discount: Paying for the full 8-session program at registration saves $100
• Parent group: The parent support group is free for parents/caregivers of enrolled children.
• Insurance: Sessions are private pay. A superbill can be provided upon request for families who wish to seek out-of-network insurance reimbursement; coverage for group services varies by plan.
• ESA: This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective which accepts ESA funding. Please let us know if you would like to be invoiced directly for ESA payment.
Registration & Enrollment
• Step 1 — Intake: A brief intake call or questionnaire with the LPC to confirm the group is a good fit for the child. Please contact Steven Sommers for intake and before enrolling.
• Step 2 — Enrollment: Families choose single-session or full-package pricing at the time of registration. This group is facilitated by The Gifted Collective.
• Step 3 — Deadline: Registration closes one week before the first session (by September 1, 2026) to allow time to finalize the cohort.
• Cancellation policy: Individual, pay as you go ses play somesions are nonrefundable.Package fees are non-refundable after the second session, with credit offered for excused absences.]
Contact
Stephen Sommers, LPC — 801.616.8819 | ssommerscmhc@gmail.com
Adam Laningham / The Gifted Collective — 623.986.8408 | Inquiries@TheGiftedCollective.com
Rigester on our Courses & Classes Page
Meet The Teacher Night & Open House
Please stop in to chat with the teachers and hear our plans for the year!
School starts August 19th!
Don’t want to wait? Please email us to schedule a personalized tour!
Meet The Teacher
Meet the Teacher Nights
Please stop in to meet our teachers, here our plans for the year and tour our learning center!
March 5th, April 29th, & May 12
From 5:30 to 6:30
Open to all!
Meet The Teacher
Meet the Teacher Nights
Please stop in to meet our teachers, hear our plans for the year, and tour our learning center!
March 5th, April 29th, & May 12
From 5:30 to 6:30
Open to all!
Energy = Reinforcement
Energy = Reinforcement
Understanding and Intervening Appropriately to Problematic Behaviors
with Stephen Sommers, LPC
This parent night session unpacks the science of reinforcement and how children’s behavior—both helpful and challenging—is shaped by the energy adults give it. Families learn to recognize the patterns that keep problematic behaviors going and explore practical, compassionate strategies for shifting them. Through real examples and easy-to-apply tools, parents leave with a clearer understanding of how to respond in ways that build regulation, connection, and positive change.
Join Counselor Stephen Sommers, LPC from Beljan Psychological Services & The Gifted Collective for a fun and informative evening.
Also tour our our learning center and chat with our Founder & Lead Teacher!
Free Event - Open to all
Please RSVP HERE
Child Care is available for this event for $15 - Link to register & pay
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Thank you for your interest in our Homeschool Coffee Chat Event co-hosted by The Gifted Collective and Serna Educational Services. This event will be hosted both in-person in Phoenix, AZ and online. The purpose of this event is to provide resources and support to families around education (i.e. options, challenges, curriculum, SPED). There are no sales of any kind involved with this event. Our intention is to provide a space for families to feel supported and to find answers to questions.
Date: Friday, April 3, 2026
Time: 10 am - 11 am (in person in Phoenix, AZ)
11 am - noon (AZ/PT), 1-2 pm (CDT), 2-3 pm (EDT) (online option)
Cost: FREE!
In-Person Location: The Gifted Collective, 15255 N 40th St Building #6, Phoenix, AZ 85032 (Cross Streets: Highway 51 and Greenway Rd.). Call (623) 986-8408 if you need directions or have any questions.
Online (via Zoom): A Zoom link will be emailed to you closer to the event date.
Who Can Attend? Any parent/family who is actively (or wanting to learn more about) homeschooling/educating at home and/or other educational options - as well as their children (in person only) - are invited to attend! We serve families across the United States.
Hosts: Adam Laningham, owner/CEO of The Gifted Collective, is the "Gifted Guru", specializing in supporting neurodivergent children. Brenda Serna, Founder & CEO of Serna Educational Services, is the "education" expert, including homeschooling.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are a business owner, serving the homeschooling community, please refrain from sharing about your business. This event is intended as an opportunity for families to discuss questions, challenges, and support needs. There may be an option in the future to be able to advertise your business. If you would like to join our interest list, please send an email to Admin@SernaEducationalServices.com. Thank you for understanding.
Purpose of Event:
Connections with other parents
We want to hear from you! Tell us what homeschool-related information and resources you need to be successful.
Connections with homeschooling and neurodivergent experts, as well as other resources
What To Expect (all at no cost!)?
Coffee and treats (in-person event only)
Meet and chat with other parents
Connection with homeschool/educational resources
Talk with a homeschool/education expert
Children's activities (in-person event only)
Looking for more information about this event?
Please send an email to Admin@SernaEducationalServices.com with the subject line of "Homeschool Coffee Chat Event - April 3, 2026".
Here is the registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfMCEldU2vWYcZrkGXSCbftOAYqnhBPReNf6roFLs_yC0bPIg/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=106912490565990430742
The New Rules of Parenting!
Parent Night & Open House
The New Rules of Parenting!
Digital Age - New Parenting Rules?
Your child is part of the first generation that grows up with tablets and mobile phones. Their brains might be wired differently from any generation in history. If you’ve ever felt that your child is too sensitive, too intense, or simply doesn’t fit the old system—and that you are expected to have all the answers—take a breath. You’re not alone.
I’m Otto Siegel, Genius Coach, and for over two decades, I’ve worked with families who are ready for something different. Join this presentation about the new role of parents today: creating emotional safety, trusting curiosity, and guiding children to grow into who they already are.
No blame. No labels. Just new rules that actually work.
Also tour our our learning center and chat with our Founder & Lead Teacher!
Free event and open to all
Please RSVP HERE
Child Care is available for this event for $15 - Link to register & pay
Meet The Teacher
Meet the Teacher Nights
Please stop in to meet our teachers, here our plans for the year and tour our learning center!
March 5th, April 22nd, & May 12
From 5:30 to 6:30
Open to all!
A Loving Push
Parent Night & Open House
A Loving Push
How to encourage children to get out of their comfort zone. Strategies to help all parents with a special focus on supporting those of gifted and Neurodiverse children.
Join Counselor Stephen Sommers, LPC from Beljan Psychological Services & The Gifted Collective for a fun and informative evening.
Also tour our our learning center and chat with our Founder & Lead Teacher!
Free Event - Open to all
Please RSVP HERE
Child Care is available for this event for $15 - Link to register & pay
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Time to chat, share ideas, and enjoy some coffee!
Date: Friday, November 7th, 2025
Time: 10 am - noon (in person in Phoenix, AZ)
11 am - noon (AZ/PDT), 1-2 pm (CDT), 2-3 pm (EDT) (online)
Cost: FREE!
Additional information and RSVP here
Self-Esteem, It’s Not just Important for Our Kiddos!
Self-Esteem, It’s Not just Important for Our Kiddos!
Part of Finding Balance Workshops
Self-esteem is crucial for overall mental and emotional health. It influences how individuals feel about themselves and how they relate to others. A healthy sense of self-esteem enables a person to approach challenges with confidence, set personal boundaries, and build positive relationships. This workshop will offer tips and strategies, as well as some good laughs, for nurturing a healthy sense of self confidence in both you and your children.
Presenter by Linda Henly-Smith
Cost - Free for adults
RSVP - https://forms.gle/YRa2YuQTH7t1FJnZ6
Child Care - $15 - Register
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Time to chat, share ideas, and enjoy some coffee!
Date: Friday, October 3, 2025
Time: 10 am - noon (in person in Phoenix, AZ)
11 am - noon (AZ/PDT), 1-2 pm (CDT), 2-3 pm (EDT) (online)
Cost: FREE!
Additional information and RSVP here
Beyond the Pressure: Supporting Gifted & 2E Children Through Anxiety and Perfectionism
Beyond the Pressure: Supporting Gifted & 2E Children Through Anxiety and Perfectionism
September 27th - 10:00am-11:00am
Join Dr. Matteson and Dr. Sanchez from InSight Psychology for a presentation, group discussion, Q&A, and some coffee!
Free for parents and $15 for child care
RSVP - https://forms.gle/Apx2S1tRYCFXoqsh9
Child Care - www.thegiftedcollective.com/course-catalog
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Homeschool Coffee Chat Event co-hosted by The Gifted Collective and Serna Educational Services
Who Can Attend? Any parent/family who is actively (or wanting to learn more about) homeschooling/educating at home - as well as their children - are invited to attend!
What To Expect?
Coffee and treats
Meet and chat with other homeschooling/educating at home parents
Connection with homeschool resources
Talk with a homeschool expert
Children's activities
Registration link:
Laughter: The Medicine With No Bad Side Effects
Laughter: The Medicine With No Bad Side Effects
Part of This Fall’s Finding Balance Workshops
August 23rd 10AM-12PM
When is it OK to laugh? The time is now! There is a valuable healing property in laughter but some of us have broken funny bones! We have forgotten how to connect with our inner children! We live in a chaotic and constantly changing world! A sense of humor and our ability to find joy are valuable tools for dealing with challenges and finding solutions to problems. The very act of laughter has numerous health benefits. This workshop will offer tips on how to develop and maintain a healthy laugh life for you and your children!
Presentor - Linda Henly-Smith
Cost - Free for adults
RSVP - https://forms.gle/bpfenmkPuXaUHEBf9
Child Care - $15 - Register
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Homeschool Coffee Chat Event co-hosted by The Gifted Collective and Serna Educational Services
Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
Time: 10 am - noon
Cost: FREE!
Who Can Attend? Any parent/family who is actively (or wanting to learn more about) homeschooling/educating at home - as well as their children - are invited to attend!
What To Expect?
Coffee and treats
Meet and chat with other homeschooling/educating at home parents
Connection with homeschool resources
Talk with a homeschool expert
Children's activities
Open House & Meet the Teacher Night
Our last Meet the Teacher Night before school starts!
Please join us at 5:30 PM
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Are you a homeschooling parent or interested in homeschooling? Join us for an opportunity to chat and collaborate with fellow homeschooling parents. Bring your ideas and questions! Children are welcome to attend. We will have games and activities for the children and coffee and snacks for the adults.
This is a free event provided by The Gifted Collective and Serna Educational Services.
Parent Playtime
Parent Playtime
Discover a genius way to relieve tension and charge your soul!
Join us for an engaging evening and experience several fun and proven strategies to help you support your mental health!
Prevent or resolve conflict
Reconnect after misunderstandings
Dissolve stress
Spark creativity
Boost curiosity
Foster joyful connection
Heal potential "Play Disorders"
Free Parent Workshop!
Homeschool Coffee Chat
Hello! Thank you for your interest in our Homeschool Coffee Chat Event co-hosted by The Gifted Collective and Serna Educational Services.
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2025
Time: 10 am - noon
Cost: FREE!
Location: The Gifted Collective, 15255 N 40th St Building #6, Phoenix, AZ 85032 (Cross Streets: Highway 51 and Greenway Rd.)
Who Can Attend? Any parent/family who is actively (or wanting to learn more about) homeschooling/educating at home - as well as their children - are invited to attend!
Purpose of Event:
Connections with other parents
We want to hear from you! Tell us what homeschool-related information and resources you need to be successful.
Connections with homeschooling experts
We hope to continue to offer this event each month through the end of 2025!
What To Expect (all at no cost!)?
Coffee and treats
Meet and chat with other homeschooling/educating at home parents
Connection with homeschool resources
Talk with a homeschool expert
Children's activities
RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe2LVb02V14d641rWt0ACFWnMpTcKD7AIqZbJ5SQRl2QaPEsA/viewform
