Relational Learning in Action
At InTandem, relationships come first. We believe meaningful learning and therapeutic growth happen when kids feel understood, respected, and supported—not pressured to perform or meet someone else’s expectations. Relational learning means we focus on connection and shared understanding. We take the time to learn how each client thinks, feels, and processes the world around them. From there, we build a space together that supports their goals and pace.
Some kids thrive with routine and clear structure. Others do best when they can explore freely and follow their own curiosity. We honour both. Each session is shaped with the client, not for them—so they can engage in ways that feel safe, relevant, and empowering.
Moving Away from Behaviourism
Historically, traditional therapy models for neurodivergent youth have relied heavily on behaviour-focused strategies, prioritizing compliance and visible outcomes. That’s not our approach. Instead of managing behaviours, we pay attention to what they’re telling us about a child’s needs, emotions, environment, or stressors. We aim to understand, not control. This shift opens the door to more ethical, responsive care that respects the whole child, not just how they appear on the surface.
Philosophy & Cultural Competence
Micaela’s work is informed by Educational Psychology and Moral Philosophy—fields that explore how we learn, grow, and decide what it means to act with care and fairness. She also draws on insights from critical disability studies and decolonial learning practices, which challenge systems that have historically excluded or marginalized many children.
Many kids in traditional school systems that don’t meet their needs often disengage from learning altogether. Micaela’s mission goes beyond supporting individual growth: she aims to nurture a genuine love of learning that empowers each child to feel capable, curious, and confident. This means helping raise kids who can think critically about the world around them – who understand their own strengths and interests, and know how to use them to navigate, challenge, and transform unfair systems. To do this, she creates learning environments that respect each child’s autonomy, honour their unique ways of communicating, and celebrate their full identities.
Cultural competence here isn’t a checklist—it’s an ongoing commitment to listening deeply, questioning assumptions, and acting with respect and equity. Micaela partners closely with families to understand each child’s social and cultural context, making sure the support she provides is meaningful, relevant, and empowering.