Mind over Matter (NW)

As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist with over a decade in practice and extensive SEND experience, I support adults, young people, parents & carers navigating identity, burnout, anxiety and life transitions.

Are you or your child navigating life as a neurodivergent person by perhaps feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, burnt out, or struggling with identity following diagnosis?

I am an accredited integrative counsellor with over 13 years’ experience in practice and more than 17 years working within SEND settings. I specialise in supporting neurodivergent adults and young people (including ADHD, autism, learning differences and sensory differences), as well as parents and carers who are supporting neurodivergent children.

My work is informed by over 22 years of lived experience with disability, alongside professional training and clinical practice. I offer a neurodivergent affirming, compassionate and practical approach that recognises difference rather than viewing it as deficit.

I support clients with:

• Identity following diagnosis

• Burnout and overwhelm

• Anxiety and low self-esteem

• Masking and people-pleasing

• Parenting challenges and carer stress

• Life transitions and confidence building

Sessions are available online across the UK, with in-person work in Blackpool and surrounding areas.

Therapeutic Approach

I work integratively, grounded in Person-Centred therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Sessions are collaborative, paced around you, and tailored to your individual needs.

Together we may:

• Explore anxiety, overwhelm or low mood

• Understand how past experiences or identity issues are affecting you now

• Develop practical tools for emotional regulation, confidence and self-worth

Clients often describe my approach as warm, grounded and non-judgemental, with gentle structure when things feel confusing.

Who I Work With

While I specialise in neurodivergent adults, young people and parents/carers, I also support individuals experiencing:

• Anxiety and social anxiety

• Depression and low self-esteem

• LGBTQ+ identity exploration

• Carer burnout and emotional exhaustion

• Grief, bereavement and trauma

• Work stress and relationship difficulties

You don’t need to fit into a specific label to seek support.

Training, qualifications & experience
Experience & Specialist Training

I am an accredited counsellor with over 17 years’ experience supporting individuals across the lifespan from young children to older adults facing a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including low mood, anxiety, self-esteem issues, motivation difficulties, and life transitions. I also support parents and carers navigating the education, health, and social care systems, particularly in SEND contexts.

I hold:

Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic Skills and Theory

Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

My professional experience includes:

Over 17 years supporting SEND in education settings (nurseries, schools, and universities).

Supporting parents and carers through SENDIASS and charity roles.

Specialist mentoring for neurodivergent university students, including those with long-term mental health needs and disabilities.

Volunteering with Blackpool Carers Centre, providing therapy to carers.

Recent & Specialist Training

Neurodiversity & Mental Health

ADHD, King’s College London

Understanding Autism, Level 3

Understanding Dyslexia & Specific Learning Differences

Autism Awareness

Autism and Eating Habits

Trauma, Identity & Inclusion

Intergenerational Trauma

LGBTQIA+ Mental Health & Discrimination

Understanding ODD & Conduct Disorder

Attachment: What Counsellors Need to Know

Bereavement & Suicide Prevention

Suicide First Aid, City & Guilds

Suicide Prevention Refresher

Supporting People with Learning Disabilities in Bereavement

Sight Loss & Accessibility

RNIB Counselling & Sight Loss

RNIB Domestic Abuse & Sight Loss

Other Relevant Training

Safeguarding Children & Adults

GDPR & Data Protection

Sexual Harassment Awareness

Spiritual Intelligence PHD Module

Online Counselling (Open University, 2020)

SEND Law (IPSEA Training Conference, 2019)

I also use alternative communication methods for individuals with severe and complex needs. Additional training details are available on request.