Connected Growth & Wellbeing Psychological Services

12/19/2025

Dr. Delahooke shares more of her wise words…

Self-regulation doesn't come from sticker charts or consequences. It comes from co-regulation, or the attuned, caring relationships we build with children.

We can't expect children to regulate themselves when their brains and bodies are still developing that capacity. They need us to be their calm, their safety, their steady presence through the storm.

Through our tone of voice, our facial expressions, and our gentle presence, we help their nervous systems learn what safety feels like. Over time, this becomes their own ability to self-regulate.

12/02/2025

📌 Last minute reminder! Need some support before the holiday season? Dr. Lauren's parent support group for parents of children diagnosed with ASD meets TOMORROW via Zoom at 7:15PM.
For inquiries or RSVPs, reach out to connectedgrowth@drtobingpuente.com

11/07/2025

📌Our Adult Transitions Parent Group is meeting on November 18!
Are you a parent or guardian supporting a neurodiverse adult as they transition to adulthood? Know someone who is? Inquire at connectedgrowth@drtobingpuente.com

10/29/2025

🔍Looking to build friendships and strengthen real-world social skills in a fun, supportive setting?
👥Our Developing and Strengthening Friendships Class group meets at local spots around Union Square, Manhattan, including restaurants, parks, and board game cafes. Each session focuses on connection, confidence, and practicing social skills in the community. Come join us and make meaningful connections while enjoying great conversations and activities!
📬 Interested? Want to learn more? Inquire at connectedgrowth@drtobingpuente.com

10/01/2025

Today marks 10 years in Bayside!

Dr. Lauren opened the Bayside office on October 1, 2015 when she expanded to full-time private practice after eight years part-time in Manhattan.

Since then, the practice has expanded in countless ways, including adding more clinicians and their expertise, connecting with and serving the Bayside community, and further individualizing the care and support provided to neurodivergent people and their families.

Cheers to the past decade! Looking forward to many more great things.

09/25/2025

We are excited to welcome our new full-time Postdoctoral Psychology Fellow, Amna Khan, PhD!
Dr. Amna comes to us with impressive predoctoral experience, including evaluations and psychotherapy with children, adolescents, adults, and families using developmental and relational approaches, from very established clinical settings.

🔍For more on Dr. Amna, check out her bio on our website: connectedgrowthnyc.com

09/24/2025

Read AANE's entire statement responding to recent disinformation about autism here: (IG link in bio) https://tinyurl.com/aane-statement-Sep23-2025

09/24/2025

I came across the Newsweek story saying that Tylenol in pregnancy causes autism and I feel it is important to speak up.

Autism is not a disease. It is a complex neurodevelopmental difference and a spectrum of ways that people experience and relate to the world. There is no single cause and it cannot be reduced to one product or one headline.

The science does not support the claim. Some studies have found associations but association is not causation. Stronger research designs often show no link which is why major medical organizations have not changed their guidance.

What worries me most is the harm these statements cause. They put guilt on parents especially mothers. They devalue autistic lives by painting autism as something to be prevented. They fuel stigma and fear instead of understanding and support. They also risk eroding trust in healthcare and make pregnancy even more stressful.

Autistic people deserve respect and inclusion not fear driven stories. Autism is not something to be cured. It is part of human diversity. Let us listen to autistic voices and demand careful science and compassionate communication.

09/24/2025

There is more to be said on causes and intervention than what can be contained on a Facebook post. I am re-posting those that articulate the main points to inform the public.

The American Psychological Association is deeply concerned about the Administration’s recent announcement on autism.

Promoting unsupported scientific theories risks fueling stigma, undermines public trust and distracts from real scientific progress.

09/22/2025

Know someone interested in improving their relationship skills? Josh Noble's Developing and Strengthening Friendships Class is meeting every week in the Union Square area!
📌View our curriculum on our website, connectedgrowthnyc.com, or inquire at connectedgrowth@drtobingpuente.com

09/08/2025

Very important tips for keeping kids safe.

On average in the U.S., 7 children with die each month after wandering or eloping from all types & levels of supervision. It often happens silently and quickly, usually by drowning or traffic-related accidents.

Many are nonspeaking, making it hard for them to ask for help or even respond when found. Your ability to recognize the behavioral differences and act quickly can potentially save a life.

Suspect A Child May Have Autism? Here's What You Can Do:

1. Do not assume the child is okay just because they are calm. Children with autism may not show fear even in dangerous situations.
2. Approach slowly and calmly. Sudden movements or loud voices can cause distress or flight.
3. Offer something familiar or comforting. Hold out food, water, a smartphone, or a tablet if available. These items may help gain the child’s attention or create a sense of safety.
4. Avoid physical contact unless the child is in immediate danger.
5. Use simple language and a gentle tone. Even if they do not respond, they may still understand.
6. Call 911. Describe the child's appearance, location, and any behaviors you observe.
7. Stay with them. Ensure the child doesn’t enter roads or water until help arrives.

07/29/2025

✨ Behavior is communication.