Meet Brandon Heugly, LCSW
BJ (Brandon) Heugly is a dedicated child advocate, therapist, researcher, and teacher with over two decades of experience working alongside neurodivergent individuals and their families to develop practical approaches that truly improve quality of life.
At the heart of BJ’s work is his commitment to the long-term well-being of kids in general, with particular interest in providing more practical support to youth and young adults within the neurodivergent community. Throughout his career, BJ has aggregated tools from across a wide range of diverse settings while serving in public and private schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations both as a clinician and mentor.
Why I Use the Name Gopal Das
“My licensure is under Brandon Heugly, LCSW, reflecting my formal training and years of working alongside neurodivergent individuals and families. That name carries the depth of my professional experience, but Gopal Das is the name given to me by my primary guru—an offering, a reminder of my devotion to love itself, whether we call it Krishna, God, or simply Life. Das means servant, and everything I do under this name is in service to that love—helping others step into their own clarity, strength, and self-trust.”
“This shift is about focusing my own path forward with intention. Just as True North is about growing into systemic and neurological independence, my name reflects my own commitment to living that truth—free from ego, aligned with service. Whether you see Brandon Heugly, LCSW or Gopal Das, know that my work remains the same: guiding with sincerity, showing up with presence, and honoring each person’s unique path toward their own True North.”
A More Positive, Research-Driven Approach
The potential-focused approach behind True North Neurodiversity is deeply rooted in extensive research and applied practical application, developed over fifteen years as BJ has led families and professionals alike to seek his guidance when needing a fresh perspective when dealing with “spicy” kids.
His research has also informed neurology trainings specifically designed to better equip parents, teachers, administrators, youth coaches, and clinicians with more practical ways to support kids in a positive and empowering ways.
Before heading the center, BJ served as the founder and former headmaster of Chiron Academy in Utah, a research-backed educational environment delivering both transformative and sustainable outcomes for neurodivergent children and their families through comprehensive training in personal responsibility, respect, and excellence across physical, mental, and academic domains.
He also led and developed the much-beloved Camp Takoda—a specialized educational summer camp for neurodivergent children developed in partnership with the University of Utah’s Graduate School of Social Work. BJ’s leadership was central to the rapid success and growth of the strengths-focused program over 14 years prior to the pandemic, benefiting countless families and professionals.
The Healing Power of Art & Music in Empowering Neurodiversity
The healing power of art is woven into the center’s training programs, where music and creative expression play a vital role in the holistic expression of neurodivergence. With a deep foundation in Special Education from Utah State and a Master of Social Work (LCSW) from the University of Utah, BJ is also an accomplished musician, pianist, and gifted tenor, having performed and recorded with the Utah Chamber Artists and in various stage productions over the years. Beyond music, BJ is a skilled visual artist, woodworker, stonemason, craftsman, and lover of plants—all a reflection of the deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world he works to explore alongside fellow travelers.
Families and professionals turn to BJ for practical expertise, encouragement, and perspective to help them expand self-trust and understanding in order to enjoy a more harmonious life and relationships. His beloved dog, Percy—named after the fictional hero Percy Jackson—is a cherished member of the research and support team, and can often be found learning alongside the humans and bringing joy to all who meet him.
Brandon provides clinical therapy sessions to residents of the State of Utah. Appointments for new and returning clients can be made in the client portal here.