Finding the right support when you or your child is neurodivergent can be overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating an autism diagnosis, ADHD, or another neurodevelopmental condition, access to the right people, tools, and services can make a huge difference.
Thankfully, there are organisations in South Africa that offer practical help, education, community, and understanding. This article lists some of the key centres and non-profits making an impact, both nationally and regionally.
National organisations
These organisations offer support across South Africa or have multiple branches that serve various communities.
1. The Academy for Adults with Autism
Cape Town (Southern Suburbs)
adultswithautism.org.za
The Academy for Adults with Autism is a non-profit based in Cape Town, working to create better opportunities and care for adults on the autism spectrum. They were founded in 2007 and began as a small social support group for families and caregivers.
Today, they’ve grown to include:
- A weekday enrichment programme
- A full-time communal care home
- An eco-friendly recycling project (Eco Bugs) that gives adults with autism meaningful work
They also offer online and correspondence-based support for families who need advice, referrals, or someone who understands what they’re going through.
2. Autism Resources South Africa
Online / National
autismresources.co.za
This site was started by two parents raising neurodivergent kids. Their journey through diagnosis (including ADHD, anxiety, and even bipolar disorder) was confusing and exhausting. In the process, they collected helpful articles, books, and tools—and now they’re sharing them with others.
The platform is filled with real-life advice, things that actually helped them, and a touch of humour. They even help parents source and import useful tools (like no-tie shoelaces!) that aren’t easily available in South Africa.
3. Goldilocks and The Bear Foundation
Various locations
gb4adhd.co.za
Goldilocks and The Bear was born in 2017 when Prof. Renata Schoeman (a psychiatrist) and Nic de Beer ran a trail race to raise funds for children with ADHD—only to find no existing non-profit in South Africa was offering that kind of help. So, they created one.
The foundation offers free ADHD screening and early intervention services, making it one of the first in South Africa to do so. They work directly with schools and communities to identify and support children who need it early on.
4. Neurodiversity Centre
Western Cape HQ, with national branches and outreach
neurodiversitycentre.co.za
The Neurodiversity Centre (NDC) supports individuals and families with a range of neurodevelopmental conditions—from autism and ADHD to other learning and mental health differences. Inspired by international pioneers in the field, the Centre was formally established in 2016.
Today, the NDC operates eight branches across the country and partners with local support teams to offer care, diagnosis, therapy, and training. They also run:
- A multidisciplinary clinical team (around 80 professionals)
- Research and education programmes
- Nationwide and international support collaborations
The Neurodiversity Foundation, their non-profit arm, focuses on helping families without access to private healthcare. Based in the Breede Valley, the foundation offers community-based early intervention, research, and capacity-building, aiming to bridge the massive service gaps that still exist.
👉 Next: Neurodiversity support by province
Reviewed April 2025. Always consult a professional for individual guidance.
