Library: Kamloops Resources and Community Connections Directory

In today's ever-evolving society, it is crucial to support and uplift diverse families to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Diversified Kamloops, strives to stay up to date on unique needs and challenges that diverse families face, which is why we are dedicated to providing a range of resources and community connections to support them on their journey.

This is a live resource and is updated regularly. If you are a service provider and would like to have your services added please send an email to: diversifiedkamloops@outlook.com

This website advocates for families' right to select services that best fit their needs without judgment. While we primarily recommend Neuro-Affirming services, ABA services are also included in this resource and are distinctly marked. This resource aims to be inclusive of all families' needs while providing education and information.

If you have any questions about Neuro-Affirming therapies I encourage you to reach out and speak with me directly.

This resource list is organized into categories for easier navigation. click on a highlighted category to expand the section to show the resources. Click the highlighted header again to collapse the section.

ADULT SERVICES (Support &Employment)

AXIS Family Resources - Child, Youth, Family Services, programs for adults with developmental disability's, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Community living, specialized supportive housing, substance abuse

Canucks Autism Network – Community & Family Events, Recreational programs, social programs, mental health supports, Employment services. Neuro-Affirming

Camp Amasa - providing camping opportunities for adults with special needs in the

province of BC since 1983. We offer bible-based, summer camps, overnight camps, and off-season

weekend retreats.

Community Companion Program - The Community Companion Program offers group and individualized support for adults with diverse abilities in Kamloops to make connections with their community through: Social opportunities, peer support, community resources, Advocacy, Life skills, Social and transition into adulthood.

Community Living BC (CLBC) - A provincial crown agency, mandated under Community Living Authority Act, that funds supports and services to adults with developmental disabilities through service agencies throughout British Columbia. Housing & Day Programs.

Services to Adults with Developmental Disabilities (STADD) -

STADD offers a team-based, person and family-centered approach to services and supports for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities transitioning to adulthood, focusing on the age range of 16 to 24.

Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction - The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction Youth Transition team processes

applications for youth aged 18 and on applying for disability assistance. Disability assistance can help you if you need financial or health support.

Thompson Community Services (TCS)  – Children and youth services, community inclusion program, employment, home sharing, independent living, residential programs, ADULT SERVICES)

ACCESS 2 FRIENDLY BUSINESSES

Apex Adventure Plex - Free adult jump pass with the purchase of a child jump pass.

Big Little Science Center - Free admission for adult with child entry purchase

Cineplex Cinemas Aberdeen Mall - Free ticket for guardian

Kamloops Film Society - free admission for accompanying adult

Okanagan Science Center (VERNON) - free admission for the guardian with purchase of child entry.

Salmon Arm Waterslides (VERNON) - free admission with the purchase of admission for the cardholder. (Actually, they did this for us even without the Access2 card - I found them fantastic and better for us sensory wise compared to Vernon)

WestCoast Amusements - When the fair comes you can get a free wrist band for yourself with the purchase of your child's wrist band.

Wildlife Park - Free admission for the guardian or accompanying adult with the purchase of child entry.

Have a place you wish took Access2? Email me at DiversifiedKamloops@outlook.com and I will contact them and try to make it happen!

ACADEMIC (ALTERNATIVE) SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism - educational, therapeutic, life skills and family support services for children and adults. Neuro-Affirming

Insight Support Services – Workability Program, Family Support Work, FASD/CDBC Keywork Program, Education Program, Adult Services. Neuro-Affirming

New Heights Autism Support - Academic home support for diverse learners.

Pivot Point – Autism Therapy Center: Group Activities, Early Intervention, School age services, Educational Services, teen transition planning, mental health services, Adult services, Complex care services. ABA

Social Butterflies Activities & Learning Ltd. - Autism Support Services, Early, PreK, School Age, Behavior Intervention, IEP, After School groups, Summer camps and parent workshops. ABA

ACTIVITIES AND EXTRA-CURRICULARS

Accessible Recreation Support - program Support for People with Disabilities

The City of Kamloops supports all residents by providing the opportunity for everyone to participate in our programs. Staff will work with you to find the right program with adaptations that address a full range of special needs.

Big Little Science Center - public visits, clubs and programs. These are not diverse specific but staff tends to be inclusive.

Canadian Cadets: The Cadet Program is a dynamic, funded program for young Canadians aged 12 to 18 across the country. Join the Sea, Army or Air Cadets and participate in exciting and challenging activities that you can’t experience anywhere else - inclusive and diverse.

Canucks Autism Network – Community & Family Events, Recreational programs, social programs, mental health supports, Employment services. Neuro-Affirming

Challengers Baseball -An adaptive baseball program provides a team where children with physical and cognitive disabilities can find a sense of belonging.

City of Kamloops Adapted Programs - Adapted hockey for youth and adults, adapted skating for kids, Wheelchair sports, Adapted Zumba, Adapted Yoga, Move Together (Neurodiverse Multisport program for ages 2-7 years)

Kamloops Art Gallery - Programs and events provide opportunities for all ages to explore art's connection to daily life. Offerings include art camps, interactive tours, workshops, and activities focusing on current exhibitions. Events feature exhibition openings, fundraisers, and special happenings in the Gallery Store.

Kamloops Art Party - Welcome to Kamloops Art Party! Immerse yourself in a world of artistic expression with our professional team of artists. Our offerings include acrylic painting, resin pouring, glassware painting, paint pouring, wood burning, sculpting, and pottery.

KGTC Adaptive Gymnastics - Gymnastics is an inclusive sport. That means our coaches adapt every activity around your physical, sensory and learning requirements. So whatever type of gymnastics you want to try, it really couldn’t be easier to get involved – and find out what you are capable of.

People in Motion – Adaptive Programs: youth programs, active living programs

educational programs

The Inspired Child – Sensory Store, Social Groups, Day Camps, and kids clubs. Neuro-Affirming

Special Olympics Kamloops- Provides athletic opportunities for Diverse children and adults with intellectual disabilities from all around the province. They are finding success, joy, and friendship as part of our global community. They're also having lots of fun!

TCSC Cross-Fit - provides youth and adult classes that are fun and encouraging and they are great at supporting diverse needs.

Zaaz Play – Indoor imaginative play center With sensory room and gluten free friendly cafe.

ADVOCACY

Inclusion BC -   Individual, Family and community advocacy for diverse needs.

Diverse Family Roots – Kootenays (Diverse Family Roots Society is a new non-profit based in the Kootenays . DFRS is unique in the Kootenays as it is the only grassroots, parent/ family driven support network for Families that have sons and/or daughters with diverse abilities ( disabilities) that is based in The Kootenays .Mentoring, Family Connections, Family Support, Connection to Resources, Advocacy, Family Navigating. Online Support Groups  

KinCare Family Group - Grassroots non profit local kamloops group that aims to advocate and lift up the voices of all diverse children and adults.

POPARD - Provincial outreach for Autism Related Disorders. Public school support, and courses and information on many life skill or important topics.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

BCG Boys and Girls Club Kamloops – Children’s programs, Youth programs and services, family programs, specialty programs

Social Butterflies Activities & Learning Ltd. - Autism Support Services, Early, PreK, School Age, Behavior Intervention, IEP, After School groups, Summer camps and parent workshops. ABA

ALTERNATIVE/CREATIVE THERAPY OPTIONS

 Kamloops Therapeutic Riding Association – Therapeutic riding for contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional, social and well being of individuals with special needs

Therapy Works – Counselling, Group therapy, Education Support, Executive Functioning Coaching, Virtual Services, Walk & Talk Therapy, Social groups, Art therapy. 100% Neuro-affirming.  

Lighthouse Therapy Jennifer Friend - Jennifer has worked with children, youth, and families since 2015 and she has experience working with children and youth of all ages, including those that are neurodivergent. Play and Art Therapist.

Bliss Float Therapy -When you float in a quiet and dark cabin that holds 10 inches of warm water and 1000 lbs of Epsom Salt for 90 minutes, some pretty amazing things can happen. Deep relaxation, meditation, pain relief, stress relief, comfort. Neurodivergent kids and adults often love floating - ask the reception to keep the lights and music on and plan to shower after.

Mindful Moon Healing Energy - reiki master, advanced reflexologist, sound healer

BEHAVIORIAL CONSULTING (typically ABA supports)

Anderson Behavior Consulting – Kamloops (Autism, ABA, Verbal Behavior & Early Intervention Programs)

Horizon Kids – Behavior Consultation and Behavior Interventionist services to families with children under 6 years of age and school-aged children and youth, ABA

New Heights Autism Support Society – Alternate Education, Behavioral intervention

New Horizons Professional Support Services – Behavior support, Autism Services, Training and workshops, Assessment services CLBC, Community connections, Person-centered planning

Thompson Valley Kids - Autism or Special needs services for kids: Counselling, Social Emotional group, Tutoring, BI Program, Programs for Camps & groups. ABA

COMMUNITY FAMILY SUPPORTS

AXIS Family Resources - Child, Youth, Family Services, programs for adults with developmental disability's, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Interior Community Services (ICS) – Child & Family: baby, Behavioral consulting and support, children & Youth with support needs, early connections, Family Service Program)

Pivot Point – Autism Therapy Center: Group Activities, Early Intervention, School age services, Educational Services, teen transition planning, mental health services, Adult services, Complex care services. ABA

DENTISTS (Recommended by other Neurodivergent Families)  

Empire Dental: (Dr. Dhaval Admar)  a friendly and skilled dentist in the Kamloops neighborhood. He and his team are dedicated to ensuring your teeth remain healthy and your smile shines brightly. They are committed to providing care for all their patients

Happy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry (Vernon): worth the drive! Staff is very friendly and great with diverse individuals and sedation is offered and they have hospital privileges.

Horizon Dental (Dr Nagel): Facility provides comprehensive dental treatment for children in the Kamloops area. Sedation Available.

Kamloops Pediatric Dentistry: (Dr. Jon Campbell) specializing in dentistry for infants, toddlers, children and adolescent as well as children with special needs. Sedation available.

Thompson Valley Kids Dental (Dr Barros) : Specializes in providing dental to children. Website also provides information to help parents make more informed decisions about their children's oral health needs. We hope you find this website both useful and interesting.

Seymour Dental (Dr Peeters &Dr. Bouwmeester):  dental examinations and hygiene, to restoring your smile and to addressing all kinds of dental emergencies. Sedation Available.

EDUCATION SUPPORT (TUTORS)

ABC Autism Support - Academic support K -12

Banyon Tree Tutoring – Tutoring and Academic Support: Michele Marchio Certified Teacher and Tutor

 Study Spot Okanagan – Kelowna, Penticton, Kamloops, Vernon, Salmon Arm (Academic Coaching Support and Education services: study skills, learning disabilities)

FUNDING

Access2 - Easter Seals Canada - Access2 offers individuals with permanent disabilities a support person at entertainment, cultural, and recreational venues without extra cost. Presenting the Access 2 Card at participating venues grants the support person free or discounted entry.

Adult Upgrading Grant: This grant helps with costs related to unsubsidized child care and more. It also supports the cost of tuition for adult special education programs.

​Affordable Child Care Benefit: A monthly payment to help families with child care costs. Children who have a special need may be eligible for an additional $150 per month towards the cost of child care.

​Athletics for Kids: Provides families funding so that all BC children, regardless of socioeconomic status, can participate in organized sport

Autism Funding Unit (AFU):  Autism funding helps pay for eligible services or supports that promote skill development for children living with autism children age 0-18.

​Autism Program Bursaries: The Pacific Autism Family Centre provides funding to assist families with the cost of programming

Bear Essentials : Offers financial support for equipment, travel costs, and therapy for kids with special needs

​Cops For Kids: Raises awareness and funds to assist children in medical crisis or with special needs

​CKNW Kids’ Fund: Provides funding and support to vulnerable kids with physical, mental, and social challenges living in BC communities

​Down Syndrome Resource Foundation Bursary Program:  offers a bursary to help families with program costs

​Friends of Children: Provides financial support to BC families with children in medical need

Jordan's Principal: child-first and needs-based principle used in public policy and administration in Canada to ensure that First Nations children living on and off reserve have equitable access to all government funded public services

JumpStart: Canadian Tire: Removing financial barriers with child grants for sports and extra-curriculars for children 4- 18 years.

KidSport Canada: KidSport supports children who need financial assistance with sport registration fees and equipment costs.

Kids Up Front: Provides free access to sports, arts, and cultural events to children and youth with diverse abilities across Canada

 Kiwanis Children's Fund: The foundation’s main purpose is helping children, including those with disabilities. Contact the Kiwanis International Foundation for more information.

​MCFD Special Needs Funding: Specialized service and funding options from the Ministry of Children and Family Development are available for children or teens who have special needs.

​Variety: The Children's Charity of BC: the Children’s Charity of BC has been stepping in where healthcare ends to provide vital support for children with disabilities and complex health needs across British Columbia. Child grants, Family Support grants for assessments, therapies and equipment.

HAIR DRESSERS/BARBERS

First Choice Hair (Walmart Location): Nicole Bailey is a Neurodivergent mom and is highly recommended.

First Choice Hair (NorthShore): recommended by parents to call first and outline sensory issues when making appt.  

Manhandlers Barbers: request Alyssa and Amir and also suppoort for the owner Deanna

Straight 8 Barbers (Northshore and Valleyview locations): very quick and efficient and well loved by the community and diverse kiddos.

HOME SUPPORTS AND 1:1 WORKERS

Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism - educational, therapeutic, life skills and family support services for children and adults. Neuro-Affirming

Children's Therapy and Family Resource Center – Occupational Therapy, Physio, Speech & learning pathologist, Child Development, Family support, early intervention, School therapy, hearing and provincial outreach

Insight Support Services – Workability Program, Family Support Work, FASD/CDBC Keywork Program, Education Program, Adult Services. Neuro-Affirming

Social Butterflies Activities & Learning Ltd. - Autism Support Services, Early, PreK, School Age, Behavior Intervention, IEP, After School groups, Summer camps and parent workshops. ABA

MENTAL HEALTH AND COUNSELLING

Collaborative Counselling – Counselling, Psychotherapy, EMDR)

Collins Counselling and Equine Therapy – A Kamloops Counselling company with specialties that include Equine Assisted Counselling

Lighthouse Child and Family Therapy – Counselling, We are a group of therapists in Kamloops, BC working together to provide support for children, youth, adults and families experiencing difficulties

Therapy Works – Counselling, Group therapy, Education Support, Executive Functioning Coaching, Virtual Services, Walk & Talk Therapy, Social groups, Art therapy. Neuro-affirming.

The Foundry East Kamloops COMING SOON - Wellness center where young people aged 12-24 and their families can find help and support when they need it: Mental health, Substance abuse, Life School & Work, Tough topics

 Thrive Clinical Counselling – Katherine Gulley RCC – neurodiversity-affirmative therapist who focuses on strengths and building resilience. She is passionate about working with neurodiverse children, youth, and adults

Synergy Counselling – counselling; Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Expressive Play, Narrative, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Satir Family, Solution-Focused, Dialectical Behaviour (DBT), Self-Regulation (SRT), Gottman Couples Counselling, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapies and Emotion-Focused Family Therapy and The Daring Way™ (based on the work of Brené Brown) events.

MINISTRY AND PROVINCIAL SUPPORT

Children and Youth with Support Needs (CYSN) -Provides services to children and you with support needs 0-19 (In Home and Community), as well as respite and special needs plans.

Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) - The Ministry of Children and Family Development’s primary focus is to support all children and youth in British Columbia to live in safe, healthy and nurturing families and be strongly connected to their communities and culture.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS (OT)

Creative Therapy Consultants – Occupational Therapy, Counselling, Kinesiology. Online services also available.

Children's Therapy and Family Resource Center - Occupational therapy: A child’s main occupations are playing, learning, and daily living, and occupational therapy can help a child to take part in activities from all areas of life.

Kids Creative Therapy - Private Pediatric Occupational Therapy Clinic – Offers online and in Person

Meridian Therapy - Occupational Therapists in the Kamloops office

Mind in Motion - Occupational therapy for chlidren, youth and teens.

Therapy 4 Kids Okanagan - Speech -Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Kinesiology, ADHD Specialist

Therapy Works – Counselling, Group therapy, Education Support, Executive Functioning Coaching, Virtual Services, Walk & Talk Therapy, Social groups, Occupational Therapy 100% Neuro-affirming. 

PSYCHOLOGIST/PSYCHATIRISTS & ASSESSMENT SERIVCES

Okanagan Ability Center (Kelowna) : Offers diagnostic assessments and consultation for children and youth with learning difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, developmental disabilities, social-emotional or behavioral challenges, and giftedness.

Swanson & Associates Psychology Services – (Dr Swanson) Autism Assessment, developmental disabilities, FASD and Learning Assessments, ADHD

Parkview Child and Adolescent and Mental Health Center - Provides services to the emergency department within Royal Inland Hospital for the treatment and assessment of children and youth for behavioral and emotional challenges, and for those in need of admission to the pediatric in-patient psychiatry unit. Also provides youth workers and social work services as needed. Referral needed

Therapy Works ADHD Diagnostic Services - now offering ADHD assessments for adult and youth as well as DTC forms with a nurse practitioner for a fee.

SOCIAL/EVENTS/LIFE SKILLS

Canucks Autism Network – Community & Family Events, Recreational programs, social programs, mental health supports, Employment services. Neuro-Affirming

The Inspired Child – Sensory Store, Social Groups, Day Camps, and kids clubs. Neuro-Affirming

Social Butterflies Activities & Learning Ltd. - Autism Support Services, Early, PreK, School Age, Behavior Intervention, IEP, After School groups, Summer camps and parent workshops. ABA

Therapy Works – Counselling, Group therapy, Education Support, Executive Functioning Coaching, Virtual Services, Walk & Talk Therapy, Social groups, Art therapy. Neuro-Affirming.

Thompson Valley Kids - Autism or Special needs services for kids: Counselling, Social Emotional group, Tutoring, BI Program, Programs for Camps & groups. ABA

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

ABC Autism Therapy -Service for Neurodiversity, Tourette's, ADHD, Autism (ASD/Asperger), Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Stress, Learning Disabilities & Giftedness in Children, Adolescents, and Adults

Children's Therapy and Family Resource: We assess communication development in children from birth to school entry, identify concerns, and offer support to enhance skills.

Interior Health Speech & Language: ages 0-5 Speech-Language Pathology clinics for children from infancy to kindergarten entry are located in several communities through Interior HealthKamloops Speech Therapy: Speech and Language Services are engaging and include real-life experiences, projects, games, books, and community outings. We involve families in the therapy process, empowering caregivers to positively impact their child's communication skills.

Therapy 4 Kids Okanagan - Speech -Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Kinesiology, ADHD Specialist

***Bonus Section #1 ****FACEBOOK GROUPS

2.0 Redefining Autism- Neurodiverse Families in BC : neuro-affirming autistic community page.

AFU FAMILIES : (AFU Funding ideas and approvals) and help filling out JFE's

Autism IN Kamloops : a local page for diverse families and individuals

Autism & Neurodiversity: Family Support in BC : a BC page for Neurodivergent families and individuals

Autistic Adults of the Okanagan : local Autistic Adult page.

Disability Tax Credit CANADA : (DTC, CDB, CCC Help)  

Incredibles:  (teens and young adults with lower support needs) 

Invisible's : Okanagan local group for invisible disabilities

Kamloops Caregiver/Respite Workers Unite : a great place to find respite workers

Okanagan Diversability Equipment Swap : equipment buy and sell

Partners for Inclusive Education : (SD23 Central Okanagan) School advocate info

PDA Parenting Solutions : resources and group for parents of PDA kiddos

Respite, Caregivers & BI’s for Individuals with Special Needs in B.C.Canada : another great place to look for respite or offer services.

***Bonus Section #2 **** FACEBOOK NEURODIVERGENT PAGES

The Autistic Teacher : Autistic and proud! Sharing insight and understanding to help the autistic community.

Jordan James  (Autistic Advocate And Photographer) : "Hi, I'm an Autistic, Adhd, Dyslexic and generally Neurodivergent Photographer, Parent, Husband, Advocate, ND Specialist, Author and host of The Neurodivergent Experience podcast 😀"

NeuroWild : "I'm Em, Autistic and ADHD speech pathologist, illustrator, advocate, and Mum to 3 ND kiddos"

Neurodivergent Geek Girl : Neurodivergent Geekiness

Summer Farrelly : 17-year-old Neurodivergent Inclusion Advocate, Education Consultant, Public Speaker, Animal Behaviorist, Creator & Facilitator of Animal Assisted Learning Program 'Chickens to Love'.

The Occuplaytional Play Therapist : Occupational therapist and mom of two, bringing play ideas for kids & adults of all ages and ability levels. We believe Black lives matter, play has no gender, children deserve respect as full human beings, kids do well if they can, and play is the thing!

ASSESSMENT PROVIDERS FOR ADHD, ASD and Psych ED

Under Construction - Please check back soon!

BI and RESPITE LIST

In the works! Please check back soon!