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, I can relate to the life challenges and strengths that my clients experience, which allows me to connect on a deeper level.

I don’t think anyone can claim to be an expert in working with conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, and AuDHD (the term used to describe Autism and ADHD combined), because every client is unique and every neurodivergent person presents differently. I recognise that neurodivergence can present very differently in male and female clients - something that is frequently overlooked or misunderstood - aspects such as burnout, communication, masking, and executive functioning. This awareness supports how I tailor therapy to each individual.

I have dedicated a large part of my continued professional development and training to counselling clients with various neurodivergent conditions and the challenges they may face. Autism is my main area of knowledge, but I also work with the client groups noted above, as many people have elements of one or more conditions within their diagnoses.

    My training is ongoing, driven by both personal interest and the regular developments in research, understanding, and legislation. I’m proud to have undertaken 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 support my clients in the process!

My intention is always to empower clients by helping them appreciate their strengths, particularly as wider society tends to focus mainly on the negative aspects of neurodivergence. My practice is neuro-affirming and positive, while also acknowledging – and never minimising – the real difficulties people may experience.

I welcome both diagnosed and self-diagnosed / self-identified neurodivergent clients. Long assessment waiting lists can leave people without adequate support, so recognising this, if you strongly suspect you are neurodivergent, I will tailor my work with you just as I would for someone who has already received a formal diagnosis.

I am only qualified to work with clients who may have been described in assessments as ‘Level 1’ or ‘Level 2’. These terms simply indicate how much support someone might need across different areas of life – from lighter support with social or organisational challenges, to more consistent support with communication, sensory needs, executive function, or adapting to change. While acknowledging that every person’s experience is unique, my approach is always respectful, collaborative, and focused on creating a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves.

It’s important to note that I am not a medical professional within any neurodevelopmental field. My expertise lies in providing psychotherapeutic support rather than screening, assessing, or diagnosing. However, I am knowledgeable about common traits associated with each condition and can offer guidance, psychoeducation, and emotional support where helpful. My therapeutic work follows the same core principles as my work with neurotypical clients – exploring thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences – with an added layer of neurodivergent awareness that allows me to adapt my approach when appropriate. My long-term professional goal is to gain further knowledge in the field, so I can then begin to offer an informal assessment service to screen for neurodivergent traits in adults.

At the moment, I am excited to be undertaking British Psychological Society-approved training with the NCAMH (National Centre for Autism and Mental Health) - an amazing organisation that really cares about making sure that autistic individuals can access top-notch professional support.

I have designed my therapy room to be sensory-stimulating while maintaining a relaxed and calming feel. Where possible, clients can tailor their environment using the following options, and I'm also open to suggestions from clients, if there's anything I've not thought of:

• Weighted blanket – Particularly helpful for those who experience anxiety or panic attacks. Stimulates pressure points to help release serotonin and oxytocin (the body’s natural soothing chemicals),
   
• Noise machine – offering white noise, birdsong, campfire sounds, rainfall, or meditation music
   
• Water feature – gentle trickling sound with calming or visually engaging movement
   
• Adjustable lighting – including a salt lamp, hanging bulbs, string lights, and adjustable blinds
   
• Seating choices – a reclining chair and a bean-bag chair
   
• Fidget items – a variety available on a side table near your chai
   
• Floor space – for clients who prefer to move around rather than sit still
   

You are also welcome to bring anything that brings you comfort, such as your own blankets, fidget items, or drinks (please no food). If you have any additional needs or preferences, I’m always just a message away.