COUNSELLING FAQs - ADHD, Autism and Neurodivergence
How can I make an appointment?
The first step is for us to have a free 15-20 minute chat over Teams or Telephone so we can both find out more and decide if we feel comfortable working together. You can book a first full session at the end of our chat, or take some time to think about it. It’s probably easiest to email to organise this but you can also phone, text, WhatsApp or use Facebook Messenger. Be assured that all messages and voicemails will be kept confidential. I will get back to you within 48 hours to suggest a time and date. Head over to the Contact Page for more details …
Do you specialise in ADHD and autism?
Yes, the majority of my clients are neurodivergent adults with ADHD, autism or both, often self-diagnosed, questioning their neurodivergence, awaiting a diagnosis or have recently received one. Many come to explore what this means for them as well as to navigate ways to cope with burnout, anxiety, low self-esteem, employment and academic challenges or managing overwhelm in day to day life.
Do I need an ADHD or autism diagnosis to work with you?
No. I understand the current barriers to diagnosis and fully support self-diagnosis as well as those who wish to pursue a formal assessment. Many of my clients are currently on waiting lists for ADHD or autism assessments.
What issues do you help with?
I work with adults facing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, life transitions and feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day life. I also have particular experience supporting neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD and autism, with issues such as burnout, masking, emotional regulation and understanding what being neurodivergent means for them. You don't need to fit into a particular category to benefit from counselling and you're welcome to bring whatever feels important to you.
What is counselling like and how will it help me?
Each session is yours to bring whatever issues or subjects you want to explore and I will never persuade you to talk about something you don't feel ready for. I will offer reflections which will help give you clarity or to see things differently and when I feel it would be helpful and appropriate, I will ask questions or invite you to consider other possibilities. If I think you would benefit from specific expertise with your issue, I will signpost you to further or alternative help. Many of the neurodivergent adults I work with, including people with ADHD, autism and those exploring a possible diagnosis, tell me they are exhausted from masking, overwhelmed by work or relationships or struggling to understand their needs. Counselling provides a space to explore these experiences without judgement. Many clients worry about burdening family and friends with their problems. I aim to build an honest and trusting relationship with my clients until they feel ready to face life without my help. This therapeutic alliance is the key to healing. Counselling can sometimes feel very difficult at first, particularly if you're talking about things that you've kept hidden away, even from yourself for a long time. That's why we will take things at your pace until you feel strong enough to explore further.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes, I offer online counselling via Microsoft Teams for adults across the UK. Counselling online can be a good option if you have mobility difficulties, a busy schedule, caring responsibilities or simply feel more comfortable at home. Just bear in mind you need a private space where you won't be overheard or disturbed.
Do you work with couples or children?
I only work with individual adults aged 18 or over.
When are you available?
I hold sessions Monday to Thursday between 1pm and 5pm. It’s good to let me know if you have limited availability when you first enquire in case I can’t accommodate you. Once we’ve agreed to start counselling, I will forward you a contract to read and sign.
How many sessions do I need?
This really does vary! And there is no obligation to sign up for a particular amount. You may find 3-5 sessions enough to work through an issue, or I am happy to accommodate you for long term support. Some people have weekly sessions, many fortnightly and some move to four-weekly sessions as they start to feel they need less support.
How much and how do I pay?
All 1 hour sessions cost £60 whether online or face to face. I ask for the fee to be paid in advance of our session by bank transfer, however cash is accepted at face to face sessions. My bank details and cancellation policy will be in our contract.
How do I find you?
I offer online counselling across the UK via Microsoft Teams. I also offer face-to-face counselling from my practice on Hayling Island, Hampshire, welcoming clients from Hayling Island, Havant, Emsworth, Waterlooville, Portsmouth, Southsea, Chichester and surrounding areas. Ample parking on the drive is available and there is a bus stop on a main route practically right outside. I don’t have a waiting area so please arrive at the correct appointment time. Full directions will be sent out with the contract once the first session is booked in. If you have accessibility requirements, click here for more details of the therapy space and do feel free to ask if I can make any accommodations!
Is everything I tell you confidential?
Everything you tell me is confidential except in a small number of circumstances where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, where there are safeguarding concerns, or where I am legally required to disclose information. Full details will be in our counselling contract so you know what to expect and I'm happy to answer any questions.
