BRAVE Speech & Language Services
BRAVE Self-Regulation SUPPORT
Helping each child and family find their BRAVE voice
Helping Autistic children thrive through self-regulation Support
Self-regulation is not the same as self-control. It’s the ability to recognize and manage stress in ways that support emotional, social, and cognitive growth. By understanding how biological, emotional, cognitive, and social stressors affect a child’s well-being, we can develop strategies to restore balance and energy, helping children feel safe, connected, and ready to learn.
At BRAVE, we believe self-regulation is the foundation for everything—communication, relationships, and resilience. Our founder, Narmilee Dhayanandhan, a certified Self-Reg® facilitator, works closely with Dr. Lisa Bayrami, a leading expert in self-regulation science. Together, they go beyond traditional therapy, combining speech and language expertise with cutting-edge self-regulation research. This approach empowers autistic children not only to find their voice, but to express themselves authentically, build meaningful connections, and develop the confidence to thrive.
Self-regulation starts with connection
Integrated Self-Regulation Services for Autism at BRAVE
At BRAVE, we believe self-regulation is not built in isolation—it takes an integrated, collaborative approach. That’s why we’ve built a unique model where Speech Pathology works hand-in-hand with Psychology, Social Work, and autistic voices. Together, these partnerships create a holistic foundation for children and families: blending communication support, emotional well-being, and lived experience into one comprehensive service.
We provide three integrated pillars of care designed to nurture self-regulation in children and families:
1. Speech-Language Pathology & Psychology Collaboration
Our founder, Narmilee Dhayanandhan, SLP, collaborates closely with Dr. Lisa Bayrami, former Executive Director of the Self-Regulation Institute, to develop deeply personalized intervention plans including the Safe and Sound Protocol.
By blending speech-language knowledge with cutting-edge self-regulation research, BRAVE goes beyond traditional therapy, fostering:
- Safety and connection to support emotional growth
- Effective communication strategies based on a child’s unique profile
- Resilience-building approaches rooted in the latest neuroscience
Our SLP & Psychology team bridges communication and self-regulation
2. Speech-Language Pathology & Social Work Collaboration
Narmilee partners with Karyn Robinson-Renaud, a registered social worker, to provide families with support in navigating:
- Anxiety and emotional overwhelm in autistic children
- Parental burnout and stress management
- Tailored interventions that strengthen resilience and well-being
Caring for a neurodivergent child can be overwhelming; let us help you navigate self-regulation with confidence!
3. Consulting with autistic adults
Lived Experience Meets Clinical Expertise
At BRAVE, we believe effective self-regulation support must be informed by the lived experiences of autistic individuals, not just research alone.
That’s why we:
- Consult with autistic adults who have firsthand experience with dysregulation
- Help families to understand their child's regulation needs with clarity and confidence
- Develop meaningful goals that respect neurodivergent perspectives
Learn from the experiences of autistic individuals to support your child’s regulation, communication, and well-being. Call us today.
Why BRAVE's Approach is Unique
Through our interdisciplinary partnerships, BRAVE provides a personalized, comprehensive approach to self-regulation and communication. By integrating expertise from Speech-Language Pathology, Psychology, and Social Work, we address each child’s emotional, social, and communication needs in a holistic way—supporting well-being, meaningful growth, and lasting success.
Call us today to explore how we can support you and your child, on the journey.
A GLIMPSE INTO OUR WORK ON SELF-REGULATION
Discover how our approach can support your child
Growing Evidence for the Role of Speech-Language Pathology in Self-Regulation
Research continues to highlight the critical role of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in supporting self-regulation, especially in autistic individuals. These studies explore how communication and emotional regulation are deeply interconnected and how SLPs can help children develop both effectively.
- The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists in Supporting Autistic People – Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC), April 2023. This position statement highlights how SLPs play a critical role in enhancing communication and self-regulation for autistic individuals, emphasizing neuroaffirming practices and collaboration with families. www.sac-oac.ca
- Binns, A. (2019). Applying a Self-Regulation and Communication Framework to Autism Intervention. Autism and Developmental Disorders Journal (Russia), 17(2), 34-45. This study examines how a combined self-regulation and communication approach enhances intervention outcomes for autistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of co-regulation strategies in speech therapy.
- Binns, A. V., Hutchinson, L. R., & Oram Cardy, J. (2018). The Speech-Language Pathologist’s Role in Supporting the Development of Self-Regulation: A Review and Tutorial. Journal of Communication Disorders, 78, 1-17. This review explores how SLPs can actively contribute to self-regulation by addressing language processing, emotional communication, and cognitive flexibility. It outlines practical strategies for integrating self-regulation into speech therapy.
Additional Self-Regulation Resources
- Self-Reg Institute (MEHRIT). Explore research, courses, and expert guidance from The MEHRIT Centre, founded by Dr. Stuart Shanker, a leading authority on self-regulation. https://self-reg.ca
- Podcast on Self-Regulation. Listen to thought-provoking discussions on self-regulation, stress management, and supporting neurodivergent children, featuring experts in the field. https://self-reg.ca/podcasts
“The better we understand Self-Regulation, the better we can turn challenging behaviors into active opportunities for engagement.”
– Stuart Shanker –
GET STARTED WITH BRAVE TODAY
Location
Located in the heart of Ajax, Ontario
Phone
(416) 738-5775
info@bravespeech.ca
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Culturally Responsive Autism Care
Bridging Connection, Compassion, and Co-Regulation