Frequently asked questions

What does "Neurodivergent" mean?

Neurodivergent (and neurodivergence) are words used for people whose brains work in ways that differ from what society considers “typical.” This can include autistic people, ADHDers, dyslexic or dyspraxic people, those with tic disorders, PTSD and many others.
Being neurodivergent doesn’t mean something is “wrong” — it simply means your brain processes the world differently.

These terms come from a perspective that values neurodiversity rather than pathologising it, and they acknowledge that:

  • there is no single “right” way for a brain to function

  • neurodivergent people often have unique strengths and challenges

  • many difficulties arise not from the person themselves, but from environments and systems not designed with them in mind

In counselling, these words offer a gentle and shared language for exploring your experiences — but you never need a diagnosis to use them or to work with me. Some people find these terms empowering, some are unsure, and others prefer not to use labels at all. All of that is completely okay.

My role is to support you in exploring what feels true, comfortable, and meaningful for you, without any pressure to fit into a specific identity or category.

What does "Neurodivergent-affirming Counselling" mean?

Neurodivergent-affirming counselling recognises neurological differences—like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others—as natural human variations, not problems to be fixed. It focuses on understanding each client’s unique needs, validating their experiences, and adapting therapy to fit their communication and sensory preferences. Instead of aiming to make someone appear “more typical,” it supports authenticity, reduces masking, and helps clients build a life that works for them. This approach also explores the impact of ableism and how external environments, assumptions, and expectations may create challenges and struggles for individuals.

What does "Neurodiversity" mean?

Neurodiversity (and neurodiverse) describes the natural variation in human brains and minds. Just as we all have different bodies, personalities, and ways of expressing ourselves, we also have different ways of thinking, processing, and experiencing the world. In this sense, everyone is part of neurodiversity.

Do I need a diagnosis to work with you?

No — you do not need any diagnosis to access counselling. Many people come to therapy while exploring whether they might be neurodivergent, or simply because they’re struggling and want support. A diagnosis is never required for you to be welcomed or understood.

For some, part of the challenge is feeling different but not fitting neatly into any of the boxes or categories society uses. Counselling can offer a space where you don't have to define yourself or have everything “figured out.” Instead, we focus on how you experience the world, in your own words, at your own pace.

Together, we can explore your identity, needs, and inner landscape with curiosity rather than pressure — giving you the freedom to grow, shift, and understand yourself more deeply over time.

How long will i need counselling for?

There’s no “right” amount of time to be in counselling — it truly depends on your needs, your goals, and what feels manageable for you.

Some people come for a short period, perhaps a few months, to focus on a specific challenge or life transition. Others choose longer-term therapy to explore patterns, understand themselves more deeply, or have ongoing support as they navigate day-to-day life.

We’ll move entirely at your pace. You’re always in control of how long you attend, and you can pause, reduce, or end counselling whenever it feels right for you. I’m here to support you for as long as it’s helpful — no pressure, no expectations, and no fixed timelines.

How often do i need to attend counselling?

Most people choose weekly or fortnightly sessions, as this helps build momentum and creates a steady, supportive rhythm. This can be especially helpful at the beginning of therapy as we build trust and develop a sense of safety together. However, the frequency is completely flexible. It can be shaped around your needs, energy levels, financial situation, and overall capacity. We can discuss what feels sustainable for you and adjust at any time.

What happens in the first session?

The first session is a gentle introduction — a chance for us to get to know each other and for you to get a sense of whether this space feels right for you. We’ll go through the initial assessment form and the counselling contract together, at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

You’ll have space to talk about what’s bringing you to counselling, what you’re hoping for, and any concerns or needs you have. There is absolutely no pressure to share more than you’re ready to. You can take your time, pause, ask questions, or explore things slowly.

The first session is simply about beginning to build safety, trust, and understanding — the foundation we need for meaningful therapeutic work. You can use the space however you need to, and we’ll move forward from there together.

Is online counselling as effective as in-person counselling?

Yes — online counselling can be just as effective as in-person work. Many people find online sessions to be supportive, grounding, and sometimes even more accessible, especially if sensory sensitivities, travel, mobility, or energy levels make in-person sessions difficult.

What matters most in therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship — feeling understood, connected, and safe — and this can absolutely be built online.

Everyone is different, and both formats offer unique benefits. In person, I’m able to pick up more easily on subtle shifts in body language, facial expressions, and the felt sense between us. For some people this depth of attunement feels reassuring and containing. For others, it can feel intense or exposing, and online work may feel gentler, safer, or more spacious.

Online counselling also gives you more control over how much of yourself you choose to share visually. Some people feel more comfortable regulating the environment, lighting, sound, and sensory input, which can make emotional exploration easier.

What’s most important is that you feel supported in the way that works best for you. We can talk together about what feels right, and adjust the format or boundaries of online work so the space meets your needs.

What if i don't know what to talk about?

That’s completely okay — many people feel this way, especially at the beginning. Sometimes there’s so much on your mind that it’s hard to know where to start, and sometimes things just feel blank or difficult to put into words.

We can begin wherever you are. You might start with a specific situation, a feeling, or even simply, “I’m not sure.” Counselling doesn’t require you to arrive with a plan — it’s a space where things can unfold gently and at your pace.

I’m here to support you in whatever way feels most helpful. If you’d like me to ask you questions, I can. If you need silence, I’m comfortable sitting with you in that. If creative expression feels grounding — writing, drawing, colouring, movement, play — we can use those too. Often creative approaches can help us connect with emotions in a way that feels safer or more accessible.

If talking is what you prefer, that’s welcome. If you need time to warm up, that’s welcome too.
The only limit is safety; otherwise, we can adapt the space to fit you.

You don’t need to know where to begin — we’ll find our way together.

What are your counselling fees?

The first counselling session (initial assessment session) is £50 and it lasts one hour. Counselling sessions after this are £70 and they last one hour.

What are "concessions" and how do I know if I qualify?

Concessions are reduced-fee counselling spaces for people who aren’t able to pay the full session rate of £70. The only requirement to qualify is that you need a lower rate. There’s no formal assessment or proof needed. However, concession spaces are limited, so availability may vary. If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to ask and I'll let you know if there is space available.

What if I realise my counsellor isn't the right fit for me?

It’s completely okay if you meet a counsellor and realise they’re not the right match for you. A good therapeutic relationship is at the heart of counselling — feeling safe, understood, and able to trust the person you’re working with is essential.

Part of therapy is paying attention to what feels right for you and what doesn’t. If at any point you feel I’m not the best fit, I will always respect that. You won’t be judged or encouraged to continue if it doesn’t feel right.

We can talk it through together if you’d like — exploring what wasn’t working, what you might need instead, or looking at alternative options. And if you’d prefer not to have that conversation and simply choose not to book further sessions, that is absolutely okay too.

The most important thing is that you receive support that feels safe, comfortable, and aligned with who you are.