NEURODIVERSITY COUNSELLING
Supporting people with clusters of neurodiverse issues with in their relationships and their workplaces.
The most common clusters often presented and described as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder), Dyslexia and Dyscalculia, and more.
However often people can have two or more diagnosis, or no diagnosis at all, but a mixture of symptoms from the neurodiverse family.
ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
In Person Centered counselling, working with people with ADHD brains involves adapting my therapeutic approach to accommodate unique challenges and strengths that clients with ADHD brains have. Key considerations may likely include:
Empathy: Understanding and empathising with the individual's experience of ADHD is crucial. Validate struggles and strengths, fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment.
Client-Centered Approach: Tailor counselling to the client's specific needs and goals. Collaboratively set objectives, acknowledging the impact of ADHD on their daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Strengths-Based Perspective: Highlight and leverage the individual's strengths. Recognize their resilience, creativity, and unique qualities, emphasizing a positive narrative.
Goal Setting and Time Management: Assist in setting realistic and achievable goals, breaking them down into manageable tasks. Explore strategies for time management and organizational skills to cope with ADHD-related challenges.
Mindfulness and Coping Strategies: Introduce ADHD friendly mindfulness techniques to enhance focus and self-awareness. Work together to develop coping strategies for handling impulsivity and distractions.
Psychoeducation: Provide information about ADHD to enhance understanding. This includes discussing neurobiological aspects, common symptoms, and how these factors may influence behavior and emotions.
Collaboration with Other Professionals: If necessary, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists or behavioral therapists, to ensure comprehensive support for the individual dealing with ADHD.
By integrating person-centered principles with ADHD-specific considerations, counselling can become a transformative space for self-discovery, skill development, and overall well-being.
ASD
Autistic Spectrum Disorder
When working with individuals on the autistic spectrum in person-centered counselling, it's essential that I adapt my approach to meet a client's unique needs. Here are some likely considerations for people with ASD brains.
Individualised Approach: Recognize and respect the individual differences within the autistic spectrum. Tailor my counselling approach to accommodate client specific preferences, sensitivities, and communication style.
Sensory Sensitivities: Be mindful of sensory sensitivities that individuals on the spectrum may experience. Create a comfortable and low-stimulation environment to enhance client engagement in the counselling process whether in or outdoors.
Clear Communication: I will do my best to use clear and direct communication. Be explicit about my intentions and expectations, avoiding ambiguous language. Allow time for processing information and expressing thoughts.
Special Interests: Incorporate the person's special interests into the counseling process when appropriate. This can serve as a bridge to establish rapport together and facilitate communication.
Visual Supports: Utilize visual aids and supports to enhance understanding. Visual schedules, diagrams, or charts can help structure sessions and convey information more effectively.
Routine and Predictability: Establish a routine and predictable structure for sessions when possible. Providing a sense of predictability can create a secure environment for individuals on the spectrum.
Empathy and Acceptance: I will aim to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Acceptance of the individual's unique perspective and experiences is crucial in building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Collaboration with Support Network: Involve family members or caregivers when appropriate, indirect or with explicit permission, directly. Collaborate with other professionals involved in the individual's care and support to ensure a holistic approach to their well-being.
By integrating person-centered principles while being attuned to the specific needs of individuals on the autistic spectrum, counselling can become a supportive space for personal growth, self-acceptance, and improved emotional well-being.
DYSLEXIA / DYSCALCULIA
Reading, Writing, Spelling / Numbers
At Kendal Therapy, I understand the unique experiences associated with dyslexia and dyscalculia. The person-centered approach aims to create a supportive environment tailored to your individual needs. We can navigate this together, and I will do my best to offer:
Acknowledgment and Validation: I will recognize the challenges you face and validate your experiences. My goal is to create a non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings.
Individualised Learning Style: I understand diverse learning styles. Whether you benefit from visual aids, auditory cues, or kinesthetic approaches, counseling techniques can be tailored to suit your preferences.
Strengths-Based Perspective: Emphasising your strengths is at the core of my approach. Together, we'll explore your unique abilities and talents, building confidence and fostering a positive self-image.
Adapted Communication: Clear and concise communication is key. I will aim to adapt my communication style to ensure mutual understanding, whether through verbal communication, visual notes, or other means that resonate with you.
Emphasis on Self-Advocacy: I aim to help you to articulate your needs and preferences, both within and outside the counselling context. Developing self-advocacy skills is an essential part of your personal growth.
Use of Technology: Exploring assistive technologies, we can integrate tools that can aid communication or learning. This may include text-to-speech software, speech recognition tools, or other supportive apps.
Patience and Flexibility: Patience and flexibility are inherent in my approach. I understand that additional time may be needed, and we adjust session structures to accommodate your unique pace.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to providing a welcoming space where you can thrive, regardless of the challenges posed by dyslexia and dyscalculia.