Working with Neurodivergent & Disabled People
A thoughtful, thorough understanding of neurodivergence, disability and mental health. I have nineteen years’ experience working with neurodivergent and disabled young people, adults and their families. I have led Neurodevelopmental Pathways in the NHS and, as a Senior Leader in an Autism Specialist Secondary School, oversaw the implementation of students Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPS). I have worked in services which specialise in the ways that people can be hurt by, and hurt others. I support individuals, families and professionals to have a good assessment of the risk of harm to and from a person, and understand the unmet needs linked with their behaviour. We start by understanding behaviour as a communication. I have given lectures, published academic articles and a book chapter on working with neurodivergent and disabled people, particularly women and girls, who tend to be diagnosed later in life, and who, the research tells us, struggle more with physical health challenges and experiences of abuse. There are many debates about the ways in which diagnoses of Autism and ADHD can be helpful or unhelpful among professionals, parents, and Autistic and ADHD communities. Conversations can lose complexity. My approach is to share all of the perspectives and evidence that I am aware of with you, so that you feel confident understanding your own, or your family member’s difference. I have experience working with people experiencing chronic physical health conditions, nervous system dysregulation and burnout. I have presented internationally on the experience of 'epistemic injustice' - being misbelieved by health professionals.
Parenting Autistic Children Group
Join a thinking space with other parents and a specialist clinician. You will pick topics to explore as a group, drawing from academic and neurodivergent research. Whilst some information will be shared, the group focuses on building an understanding of your child and your relationship. Families are often thrust into 'action mode' as they advocate for their child's needs to be met. This can sometimes mean that there is less space to reflect on what Autism means in your family, your hopes and expectations, or how a child's profile might change over time. The group pays attention to the 'adaptation dilemma' - how families balance the need to make Reasonable Adjustments for a child whilst setting boundaries that all children need. Example topics include; How children hide their Autistic traits (Masking), Stimming, Strong Interests, Attention and ADHD, Siblings, Friendships, Demand Avoidance, Education & EHCPs, Gender Differences, Adolescence, Promoting Independence, Transitions, Sex and Sexuality, Behaviours that Challenge, Vulnerability and Risks, Autistic Wellbeing.
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Neurodivergence Informed Therapy
Adapted therapy and space to make sense of neurodivergence for children, adolescents and adults. There has been a stereotype that neurodivergent people can only make use of practical, skills focused therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Yet, in a National specialist Autism team in the NHS, we found that when offered choice, Autistic adults chose a range of therapies, including those that focused on their inner life and relationships. I offer a range of therapies to neurodivergent people and we would work together to choose an approach following assessment. What we know about neurodivergence is rapidly changing and we have increasing research from neurodivergent communities on their experience of wellbeing. My approach adapts to these ideas, but it is also to share them with you, so that you can build you confidence understanding your unique cognitive and emotional profile.
Child and Adolescent ADHD Assessments
NICE Guideline compliant diagnostic assessments. Families come to me for assessments to gain a broad understanding of their child's needs. This includes assessment of other mental health needs, family, school, social, and cultural experiences. This approach takes time but offers confidence that you have taken a considered, balanced approach. Three post diagnostic sessions, which might include you, your child, their school or other important people in their life are included as part of the assessment.
Care Coordination
Practical support to coordinate mental health care and professional relationships Care Coordination is an alternative, or compliment to therapy. It involves regular consultations with you, services, educators or workplaces as required, following up emails and making referrals. Care Coordinators take a lead in bringing professionals together. Many, support for health, education, social care, benefits and workplace systems to work together is a priority. This flexible intervention can take place during particular transitions, or on a regular basis, giving you the security that you can put some tasks down and that you will only have to tell your story once.