Sorcha Rice, AuDHD PDA Senior Occupational Therapist

I’m Sorcha Rice, an AuDHD PDAer and Senior Occupational Therapist passionate about supporting neurodivergent children, teenagers, adults, and the people around them. My practice is grounded in the understanding that behaviour is communication, regulation comes before expectations, and every person deserves support that honours their neurotype rather than trying to change it.

I have extensive experience supporting autistic, ADHD, AuDHD and PDA individuals, as well as those with sensory processing differences, dyspraxia, dysgraphia, emotional regulation differences and executive functioning challenges. I also have a particular interest in Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and how communication, sensory processing and the nervous system interact.

As an AuDHD PDAer myself, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to my work. I understand how exhausting it can be to navigate a world that often misunderstands neurodivergent nervous systems. My goal is never to teach someone to mask or appear “less autistic” or “less ADHD.” Instead, I work collaboratively to understand what their nervous system is communicating, identify barriers to participation, and develop supports that genuinely improve quality of life.

My approach is child-led, neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed. I focus on building safety, trust and connection before introducing any challenge. Sessions are flexible and responsive because regulation and capacity naturally fluctuate. There is no expectation to sit at a table, complete predetermined activities or work towards compliance. Instead, I follow each person’s interests, sensory needs and nervous system, using meaningful occupations and co-regulation to support participation in everyday life.

Occupational therapy looks different for every person. Sessions may involve movement, play, sensory exploration, problem-solving, environmental adaptations, developing self-understanding, executive functioning strategies or working together to understand why daily activities feel difficult. Progress is measured by increased wellbeing, autonomy, confidence and participation—not by how well someone fits neurotypical expectations.

I also work closely with parents, caregivers, schools and other professionals. I believe lasting change happens when the environments around a person become more understanding and supportive, rather than expecting the individual to carry all of the responsibility for adapting.

Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child or your family, you can expect a collaborative, compassionate and non-judgemental space where your experiences are believed, your strengths are recognised and your nervous system is respected.