
A SPACE FOR YOU
Many clients who come to see me are diagnosed or identify as autistic, ADHD, and often both ASD & ADHD (sometimes known as Au-DHD). There are many other forms of neurodevelopmental differences and co-occurring difficulties such as OCD that may bring people to my door.
Often a parent or sibling wanting to better understand the neurodiversity within their family may come to therapy with me because of my experience in this area.
My aim is to create a neurodivergent-friendly counselling space to explore ADHD, autism other neurodevelopmental differences and related mental health challenges.
THE THERAPY SPACE AND AUTISM
I offer counselling with people at different stages of life. It is often the case that the most painful struggles don’t come from autism itself, but rather from being misunderstood or trying to manage in environments that weren’t designed with neurodivergence in mind.
In therapy you will find a space in which you feel free from the pressure to mask or 'fit in.' We can adapt how we work in creative ways if it is helpful. This might mean changing the pace or length of sessions, adding structure, or bringing creativity into our meetings, including finding different ways to communicate beyond the standard therapy format.
The diagnostic experience is often something which might prompt someone to seek autism support as they make sense of new information that can inform how they navigate their particular life challenges or understand their family history.
The counselling process provides space to explore the whole picture of your experience — the exhaustion, anxiety, or stress that can come with navigating the world, alongside the creativity, focus, and resilience that may also be part of your experiences. Both struggle and strength can find expression in therapy.
(I am aware that some people search online for “autism therapy.” Based on research, evidence, and my experience with clients, I am cautious of this phrase, as I do not see autism as something to be treated, cured, or fixed. My role is to support people with their mental health and well-being, in ways that are respectful.)
ADHD & THERAPY
ADHD can present challenges such as overwhelm, difficulties with focus, or self-criticism. However, it also offers energy, creativity, and a unique perspective on the world.
In supporting your understanding of ADHD in counselling, we help you make sense of your experiences, find effective strategies, and explore your relationships, wellbeing, and sense of self.
Additionally, for those who may also be navigating autism, our autism aware sessions are designed to support neurodivergence and foster a deeper understanding of individual experiences.
AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH
My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing on relational and systemic ideas.
In seeking to support my clients in attaining their goals if something feels too rigid, we may adapt it to be more useful.
I stay up to date with evidence-based approaches and the latest research in how to bring the best of counselling to clients who are experiencing mental health challenges and are also neurodivergent. This means the counselling I offer, including specific therapy supporting ADHD and Autistic clients, is both flexible to your needs and grounded in the best knowledge we have.
Alongside my clinical work, I also train other therapists in working supportively with neurodivergent clients, developing a model for therapy that reflects both research and the life experience of clients.
PARENT OR SIBLING?
I offer therapy with an understanding of ADHD and Autism for parents and siblings who are seeking a better understanding of neurodiversity within their family and may be looking to strengthen or make sense of family bonds. Mothers, fathers, and guardians of children awaiting assessment or those newly diagnosed often come to me for support with the emotional demands of their situation.
PLEASE NOTE:
I do not carry out any diagnostic work, rather talking therapy that helps you process feelings, manage stress, and enhance family relationships.