Our COACHING Initiative

Help your talented, neurodivergent teen thrive — not just survive

At The Hyphen Project, we understand that twice-exceptional (2e) teens don’t follow a one-size-fits-all path — and that’s exactly where their potential lies. Our COACHING initiative is designed to help them understand their unique strengths, navigate challenges, and carve out fulfilling career pathways. Whether they're just beginning or standing at a crossroads, we’ll help them:

  • Identify opportunities that align with their talents

  • Work around barriers with creative, personalised strategies

  • Understand how they function best — and use that to their advantage

  • Rehearse real-world situations to build confidence

  • Sharpen decision-making and self-advocacy skills

  • Craft a niche that reflects who they are and what they bring

At The Hyphen Project, we don’t just coach. We collaborate, co-design, and co-create futures that fit.

You don’t have to figure it all out alone — and neither do they.
We’re here to walk alongside you both, helping your teen to build a meaningful, authentic life they can own with pride.

Key information

  • WHAT

    Weekly one hour zoom sessions with one of our specialist team members from The Hyphen Project who gets talented, neurodivergent life.

  • WHO

    For talented, neurodivergent 16-19 year olds who live outside of Auckland so aren’t able to access our COHORT or CO-WORKING initiatives, and those who are just outside our target age range.

  • WHEN

    We will liaise with you about what time and day suits your schedule to zoom on a weekly basis - sign up to get started any time!

The kinds of things we cover in our coaching sessions…

  • Review of how the coachee’s last week went

  • Well-being check in

  • What’s top of mind for the coachee

  • Troubleshooting/ brainstorming/ new ideas

  • Introduction of a new tool or strategy

  • Plan for next week

FAQS

What are the costs involved?

Fees per rangatahi are $175 per session. Minimum session number is 10. A 5% discount is applied to up-front payments. Payments can be made weekly, fortnightly, or in two installments.

I’m not sure if my teen is gifted or talented?

Many gifted and talented young people in New Zealand have not been identified as gifted and talented. By talking with you about their history, by talking with them, and by finding out more about their interests and how they spend their time, we’ll be able to get a clear picture of whether The Hyphen Project environment is a good fit for them or not.

Our family can’t afford the costs but need your help - what can we do?

We’d still love to hear from you so we have a good understanding of your situation.

I’m not sure if my teen is neurodivergent?

Many autistic people or people with ADHD or dyslexia in New Zealand do not have a diagnosis. This is particularly the case if they are intellectually able as well because they are able to scrape by academically through drawing on their strengths. They might be described as highly anxious or sensitive. We do not require a formal diagnosis for participation in our programmes.

I’m not sure how my teen will go on zoom sessions and if they will be confident enough to chat?

Before we confirm enrolment in coaching sessions, we’ll have a meet-and-greet session on zoom so your teen can get to know what we’re about and what to expect first. In our experience what they imagine in their head is much more challenging than what it’s really like, and they will gain confidence quickly!

Will there be an opportunity to meet in person?

We are super keen on in-person meet ups! We have had great success with our coaching teens making a trip to Auckland to meet in person and attend events in relation to their interest.

Testimonials...

“When Holly asked me for a testimonial I didn't know how I would do The Hyphen Project justice because I honestly don’t know where I would be without The Hyphen Project’s coaching program. Encouraged by my parents, I signed up, though I honestly didn’t expect much help, having often felt misunderstood at school. I couldn't have been more wrong.

Holly has gone above and beyond for me at every step. When I began, I was directionless, often taking Zoom calls from my bed just after waking up. Now, thanks to her support, I’ve gained full confidence in my abilities. Holly’s constant encouragement and enthusiasm motivate me, and she knows just how to challenge me without pushing me beyond my limits. I genuinely look forward to our weekly sessions, where she takes a keen interest in my passions, even those outside our business discussions. I underestimated the value of being supported by someone who not only understands the neurodivergent brain but is neurodivergent herself. I trust Holly completely.

Now, as I embark on the journey of setting up my own business, I can confidently say that Holly has been the key to my success. 

Holly and The Hyphen Project team are worth taking a chance on, you won't regret it!”

- EMMA, COACHING GRADUATE

Holly and The Hyphen Project have supported and encouraged Emma to identify and explore her strengths. This has seen Emma grow into a confident, competent and creative young women. She has grown so much in such a short period of time and we all have The Hyphen Project to thank for that.

The Hyphen Project has worked with Emma to identify and use the strengths that are a natural part of her. This takes genuine empathy, caring and an ability to know just the right balance of support and challenge to get the best from Emma.

- PARENT OF EMMA, COACHING GRADUATE