Counselling for neurodivergent clients

One of the subjects closest to my heart, both personally and professionally, is neurodivergence. In fact, I think it's fair to say that it's my main 'special interest'!

Growing up in a neurodivergent family and being a parent to an SEN child, I've seen first-hand some of the challenges, strengths and differences that can come with being neurodivergent. This personal understanding, alongside my professional training and experience, helps me connect with clients on a deeper level.

I work with adults with neurodevelopmental conditions including Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia and AuDHD (a term commonly used to describe the combination of Autism and ADHD). Every client is unique, and every neurodivergent person presents differently. Things such as burnout, masking, communication, sensory differences and executive functioning can affect people in very different ways, and this awareness helps me tailor therapy to the individual sitting in front of me.

I've dedicated a large part of my continued professional development and training to working therapeutically with neurodivergent clients and understanding the challenges they may face. Autism and ADHD are my main areas of knowledge, but I also work with the other forms of neurodivergence mentioned above, recognising that people can have overlapping traits and experiences.

My training is ongoing, driven by both personal interest and the continual developments in research, understanding and professional practice. I've been fortunate to undertake training led by some highly experienced and influential specialists within the field of psychotherapy. I love learning (this is one job where it never stops!), and the continuous training allows me to fully geek out, embrace my inner nerd, and hopefully support my clients better in the process.

My intention is always to empower clients by helping them recognise and appreciate their strengths, particularly because wider society can sometimes focus heavily on the difficulties associated with neurodivergence. My practice is neuro-affirming and positive, while also acknowledging — and never minimising — the very real difficulties that neurodivergent people can experience.

I welcome both diagnosed and self-identified neurodivergent clients. Long assessment waiting lists can leave people without adequate support, so if you strongly suspect that you are neurodivergent, you don't necessarily need to wait for a formal diagnosis before seeking therapeutic support. Where appropriate, I'll tailor my work to your individual needs in the same way I would for someone who has already received a diagnosis.

It's important to note that I am not a medical professional and I do not diagnose or formally assess neurodevelopmental conditions. My expertise lies in providing psychotherapeutic support, psychoeducation and helping clients explore the emotional and practical impact that neurodivergence may have on their lives.

My therapeutic work follows the same core principles as my work with all clients — exploring thoughts, feelings, relationships and personal experiences — with an added layer of neurodivergent awareness that allows me to adapt my approach where appropriate.

I'm currently undertaking British Psychological Society-approved training with the National Centre for Autism and Mental Health (NCAMH), continuing to develop my knowledge of autism, mental health and therapeutic practice.

I've designed my therapy room to be sensory-aware, flexible and calming, while still offering opportunities for clients to make their environment feel more comfortable and engaging.

Where possible, you can tailor your surroundings using the following options — and I'm always open to suggestions if there's something I've not thought of!

• Weighted blanket – available for clients who find deep pressure comforting or regulating.
• Noise machine – with options including white noise, birdsong, campfire sounds, rainfall and meditation music.
• Water feature – providing gentle background sound and visually engaging movement.
• Adjustable lighting – including a salt lamp, hanging bulbs, string lights and adjustable blinds.
• Seating choices – including a reclining chair and bean-bag chair.
• Fidget items – a variety available on a side table near your chair.
• Floor space – for clients who find it more comfortable to move around rather than sit still.

You're also welcome to bring anything that helps you feel comfortable, such as your own blanket, fidget items, drinks or snacks (although preferably nothing too strong-smelling!).

If you have any additional needs or preferences, I'm always just a message away. I want you to feel at home. :)