About me

Hi, my name is Shelley (She/Her). Thank you for taking a look at my therapist profile! I am a fully qualified and insured Relational Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist.

I have worked with people who are curious about neurodiversity and suspect that they may have neurodivergent traits, as well as those who self-identity as neurodivergent or have a formal diagnosis of a neurodivergence (e.g.) autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia or Tourettes. Additionally, I have supported parents, carers and guardians who may be caring for a neurodivergent child, as well as partners of neurodivergent people.

I recognise that people can have fluctuating support needs and may want to address different issues in therapy at different times, so I aim to work collaboratively with you at a pace that is sensitive and responsive to your individual needs. 

It has been my honour and privilege to work with people from a wide age range, diverse cultural, ethnic and social backgrounds and with a range of neurotypes. This has complemented my lived experience of coming from a multi-cultural and neurodivergent family. My therapy practice is inclusive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, neurodiversity-affirmative and trauma-informed. 

Ways of Working

I offer a warm, compassionate, confidential and non-judgmental space in which I hope that you can be yourself. 

I believe that a therapeutic relationship that is respectful and trustworthy is the key to effective therapy. My practice of relational therapy is person-centred, values human connection and allows me to draw from a range of theoretical approaches, concepts, tools and techniques. I aim to support clients to develop self-awareness and coping strategies, whether this involves building understanding of the connection between your body and how you feel or making links between your past experiences and current relational patterns. I aim to offer a balance between support and compassionate challenge so that I can support you to flourish and thrive. 

To help you decide whether you might like to work with me, I offer an introductory discussion lasting 20 minutes, free of charge. This can take place by video call, using an online platform or by telephone. 

Please let me know whether there are any accommodations you might need to support you to access therapy. Feel free to talk to me about your stims and/or tics.

The Types of Issues I Support Neurodivergent Clients With 

I have supported people to explore a range of difficulties including (but not limited to): 

• Abuse
• Anxiety and stress
• Confidence and low self-esteem
• Depression and low mood
• Emotional regulation
• Exploring neurodivergence and neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome) 
• Identity (including exploring gender, sexual and relationship diversity)
• Bereavement, grief and loss experiences (e.g.) loss of occupation etc
• Issues with family
• Relationship breakdown or issues
• Understanding and processing trauma

Additionally, some neurodivergent clients that I have worked with have asked for specific support with:

• Gaining greater clarity over difficulties, issues and problems you have been thinking about
• Developing ways of understanding and expressing emotions
• Exploring energy levels and managing the impact of burn-out
• Developing courage and inner strength
• Exploring and establishing appropriate personal boundaries
• Developing communication skills for assertiveness to navigate situations in education, work or social activity
• Identifying strengths and areas where you might need support
• Exploring the impact of intersectional difference and diversity
• Talking about sensitivity to rejection or feelings of abandonment

Qualifications

Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Post Graduate Certificate in Interpersonal and Counselling Skills

BSc (Honours) Health Sciences

Additional CPD Specific to Neurodiversity

Best Practice when Supporting Autistic Clients – Aspire Autism Consultancy

ADHD in The Therapy Room – Aspire Autism Consultancy

BACP Children, Young People and Families Conference 2024- Neurodiversity: The therapeutic encounter

Fundamentals of Dyslexia Awareness – British Dyslexia Association

Understanding Tourette Syndrome – Tourettes Action