Neurodiversity counselling near Beaconsfield

In recent years the world of psychotherapy has undergone a revolution brought about by the growth in awareness of the prevalence of neurodiversity in society and all of us have had to learn how best to respond to the variety of neurodiverse conditions which present in the counselling room. My approach is to celebrate the range of variations in how people’s brains function and to embrace the differences in thinking, learning and behaving presented by neurodiverse clients.

The term neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of neurological differences, including:

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder: A developmental condition characterised by challenges with communication, social interaction and repetitive behaviours.
2. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ ADHD): A condition that affects attention, focus and impulse control.
3. Dyslexia: A learning disorder that affects reading and writing skills.
4. Dysgraphia: A learning disorder that affects writing skills.
5. Dyscalculia: A learning disorder that affects maths skills.
6. Dyspraxia: A condition that affects motor skills and physical coordination.

I respond to the concept of Difference rather than Disorder in neurodiverse clients and I am committed to creating a safe, informed and non-judgmental space for those whose lens on the world isn’t neurotypical (I sometimes wonder if the word neurotypical has any relevance in a world where we celebrate the uniqueness of every individual with whom we work!).

I aim to empower my neurodiverse clients by helping them to feel more knowledgeable and confident in who they are and, through greater understanding and acceptance, to reframe past experiences, build self-compassion and recognise their strengths.

My partner, Judy MacAuley, is trained as an ADHD assessor and, although she doesn’t offer formal assessments, she offers a range of referral options. She works with many young neurodiverse clients and their parents and much of this work is helping parents– very often neurodiverse themselves – to deepen their understanding of neurodivergence and better support their child/children.

Whether you are neurodiverse yourself or seeking to better understand and support someone who is, we are here to walk alongside you, on a journey of self-empowerment, self-acceptance and compassion. 

 Barrie and Judy