Positive Neurodivergent Representation in the 2026 Winter Olympics: An SLP’s Lens on Therapy for Neurodivergence in NYC
As I watched the ice skater Alyssa Liu’s winning performance at the Milan 2026 Winter Olympics, I was awe-struck by the pure joy, happiness, and ease with which she performed her skating routine, embodying the same sense of confidence and authenticity supported through speech therapy for neurodivergence in NYC.
She did not let the pressure of the moment or the judges shake her. And she remained focused by using the energy of the crowd to propel and excel in her skating performance. In this way, she reached an amazing state of natural flow.
After this mesmerizing gold medal skating performance, I learned that Alyssa Liu was evaluated and diagnosed with ADHD in her last year of high school.
Neurodivergent Strengths in School, Sports, and Creativity
In recent interviews, Alyssa describes struggling to finish homework, stay organized, and meet deadlines.
These are all common struggles people with ADHD experience daily when completing their school work.
“It is so refreshing to witness Alyssa being open about her neurodivergence as a young woman in 2026. After winning the gold medal this year, She told ESPN: “I have ADHD, and I love situations that I’m not expecting. It gives me a dopamine rush.”
This is a common learning thread for people with ADHD.
They often explore novel experiences to maintain self regulation. This provides consistent dopamine hits throughout the day.
Additionally, children with ADHD may excel and show a preferred interest for certain academic subjects, musical talents, art or sports – demonstrating an ability to remain hyper-focused on a particular idea, task, or assignment – within a desired and conducive learning environment.
It is clearly visible. Alyssa Liu (like many neurodivergent people) achieves calm, clarity, and creativity through movement and engaging activities!
By embracing movement, music, creativity and her athletic passions she is able to reach an ultimate flow state.
As a fellow neurodivergent learner and speech therapist in NYC, I am inspired by her lack of conformity. Her ability to advocate for accommodations, and her ability to rewrite the rules of Olympic sports.
Thriving Through Freedom: Setting Your Own Rules and Boundaries
Growing up, I have also felt the pressures of studying within rigorous, high-achieving academic environments. As a dedicated student, I had many obligations, including academic, athletic, spiritual, social engagements, and even weekly service projects in the community.
When I witness Alyssa’s empowering journey, I am reminded of the importance of self-advocacy in my own journey.
As a high school student at George School, a prestigious Quaker boarding school, I learned the importance of trust, thoughtful teachers, creative learning, and the power of accommodations.
I am reminded that within carefully crafted and tended environments, neurodivergent children can grow and thrive!
Alyssa Liu originally retired at 16 years old. She was exhausted and finished with the pressure of the sport. Alyssa took a 2-year hiatus to finish high school, travel with friends, hike Mount Everest, explore the world, and herself!
When Alyssa returned to skating, it was on her own terms! She missed the joy and calm that the ice provided for her. But this time – she would make the rules! Also, she would maintain creative control. She would pick her own costumes, music, routines, schedule, and diet.
When Alyssa learned how her body functions best, she was able to take her power back – winning the gold – with awe-inspiring joy and flow!
Empowering Kids Through Speech Therapy for Neurodivergence in NYC
This is a teachable moment for all neurodivergent people. We can all use this moment to remember these key tenets:
- Embrace your differences
- Always be authentic, honest, and true to yourself
- Listen to your body
- Follow what brings you joy in life
- Don’t be afraid to ask for accommodations
- Embrace movement and creativity
- Believe in your unique gifts
- Celebrate your wins
- Give a helping hand to others
- Follow the beat of your drum &
- Be the change you want to see in this world
At Chatty Child, we can help your children embrace their differences – finding calm, clarity, and creativity in their everyday lives.
We are here to help with neurodiversity affirming speech therapy in NYC. Let’s create voices and limitless possibilities – together!
Sincerely,
Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP
Celebrate Uniqueness with Neurodiversity-Affirming Speech Therapy in NYC
At Chatty Child, we’re committed to helping children feel confident, capable, and supported in their learning environments. If your child is having difficulty with attention, organization, literacy, social interactions, or expressing themselves at school, we offer personalized care to help them grow and succeed. Here’s what getting started looks like:
- Reach out to us or call 347.491.4451 to book a complimentary 15-minute conversation where we’ll talk through your child’s school-related challenges and how speech therapy may support them.
- Set up a comprehensive evaluation, which can include school-based observations to better understand how your child functions in their day-to-day classroom setting.
- Begin one-on-one speech therapy sessions tailored to your child’s unique needs, with goals targeting areas like auditory processing, executive functioning, and communication confidence.
- Stay connected with your child’s support team through ongoing collaboration, shared strategies, and consistent communication between home and school.
Your child deserves support that helps them feel empowered, connected, and successful. With the support of a speech therapist in NYC, they can strengthen their communication skills, enjoy learning more fully, and build meaningful relationships.
Comprehensive Therapy Services at Chatty Child in NYC
At Chatty Child, we help children grow the communication, cognitive, and social-emotional skills they need to flourish at home, at school, and in their communities. Our holistic approach recognizes that language development is interconnected with learning, relationships, and self-confidence.
We offer a range of services tailored to each child’s needs:
- Speech Therapy – Play-based, individualized sessions that improve language, articulation, social communication, and confidence in everyday situations.
- InterAct – An imaginative, story-centered program that promotes language development, connection, and self-assurance through creative play.
- Occupational Therapy – Support for sensory integration, fine motor skills, and independence in daily routines.
- Hum Studios – Mindfulness, meditation, and compassion-focused classes accessible to children of all abilities.
- Teletherapy – Virtual sessions for speech and occupational therapy, available to families throughout New York State.
- Tutoring – Personalized academic support to strengthen reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.
- Functional Nutrition – Nutritional guidance to enhance focus, regulation, and overall developmental well-being.
- Consulting – Collaborative strategies for parents, caregivers, and educators to support children across environments.
- Group Programs – Small-group experiences that encourage communication, cooperation, and social-emotional growth.
Meet Heather: Compassionate Speech Therapist in New York
Heather Lynn Boerner, MA, CCC-SLP, is a nationally certified, New York–licensed speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience supporting children in NYC. Her work combines clinical expertise with mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and the perspective of living as a neurodivergent individual.
Driven by personal insight and professional experience, Heather founded Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC, an inclusive practice offering creative, individualized support. She is also the author of Carrie the Colorful Chameleon, a children’s book promoting confidence, curiosity, and connection.
Heather and her team provide in-person therapy in Tribeca and virtual sessions across New York State, helping children build communication skills and express themselves with confidence in everyday life.
