Neurodivergent Counselling in Canberra
Therapy for your unique brain:
Late-diagnosed ADHD and Autistic adults and those exploring neurodivergence
Neurodivergent Counselling in Canberra at Turner
I provide in-person neurodivergent counselling in Canberra’s Inner North, as well as therapy online across Australia, for neurodivergent individuals aged 15 and over. Whether you have a formal diagnosis, self-identify as neurodivergent, are Autistc or ADHD, or both (AuDHD), or are simply exploring what neurodivergence means for you, my practice offers affirming support that centres your unique experiences and strengths. If you are seeking neurodivergent counselling in Canberra that recognises and affirms your uniqueness, I invite you to get in touch.
Has life always felt harder than it “should”?
My neurodivergent clients often say that for years they wondered what was wrong with them as they watched other people glide through life with ease.
Nothing was wrong!
They were just making their way through systems and institutions that were not built for them, without knowing it. Some only realised their own neurodivergence when they saw themselves in their child’s assessment checklists!
Then it all made sense.
Does this sound like you?
You are intelligent. You’re capable. Resourceful.
But years of operating successfully in a neurotypical world has taken a toll on your mental health.
Those looking in from the outside see you managing work, family, and all your many responsibilities (hello masking!) but they don’t see your self-doubt, rumination, executive dysfunction. The exhaustion.
Whether you are recently diagnosed with a neurodivergence such as ADHD or Autism, you self-identify, or you are wondering if this might explain why life just feels so hard, welcome!
If you are searching for neurodivergent counselling in Canberra that is neuro-affirming and respects you as the expert in your own life – you are in the right place.
What is Neurodivergent Counselling?
Neurodivergent counselling recognises that differences in attention, sensory processing, communication, and nervous system regulation are not deficits to be corrected.
Instead of asking, “What is wrong with you?” We ask, “How does your neurotype interact with your environment and how can you make it work better for you?”
In our work together, we might focus on:
- Understanding your nervous system and energy limits
- Untangling shame from difference
- Exploring masking and overcompensation
- Processing the impact of late diagnosis/identification
- Building self-trust and self-compassion
- Creating sustainable ways of living and working
It is not about further moulding yourself to fit a system that is not designed for you, it is about understanding (and embracing!) your particular neurotype and adapting your environment to suit.
My Approach
My practice is grounded in humanistic and person-centred psychology and, as such, I believe you are the expert in your own life and we will work together to uncover your own solutions to the struggles you’re facing in daily life as a neurodivergent person.
I integrate evidence-based modalities in my approach including Person-Centred Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Parts Work, Motivational Interviewing and creative approaches.
Accommodations
I aim to make my counselling space as comfortable and accessible as possible for clients. Sensory and other individual needs are welcomed and respected. Please say, for example, if you need adjusted lighting or to move and stim. You don’t need to mask or fit a particular mould with me. We can work together to create an environment that supports your regulation and safety so you can be your authentic self.
- Compassionate
- Collaborative
- Non-pathologising
- Accommodates sensory
sensitivities
- Attuned to processing differences
- Client-paced
Who I Work With
I provide neurodivergent counselling in Canberra for adolescents and adults who:
- Have been encouraged by their GP or psychiatrist to seek counselling following neurodivergent assessment
- Were diagnosed with ADHD, Autism or other neurodivergence in their teens or adulthood
- Suspect they may be neurodivergent but are unsure and want to explore it
- Experience burnout that does not resolve with rest
- Appear to have it all “under control” but feel internally overwhelmed
- Carry chronic self-criticism even despite outward achievement
- Suffer persistent mental health symptoms such as low mood and anxiety
- Feel unsettled or destabilised after diagnosis
- Want support that is affirming and non-pathologising
Common Experiences of Late-diagnosis
Late identification of neurodivergence can bring relief – and grief.
You may be experiencing:
- Anger about missed support
- Sadness for your younger self
- Confusion about who you are without masking
- Strain in your relationships
- Career dissatisfaction
- Deep – deep – fatigue
Neurodivergent counselling provides space to work through these experiences in a compassionate way.
What Can Change
My neurodivergent clients often report:
- Reduced anxiety and rumination
- Greater self-compassion
- Increased clarity about boundaries and needs
- More sustainable energy allocation
- Improved relationships
- A stronger sense of identity
Not because they tried harder – but because they finally understood themselves.
If this sounds like something that you need, book a free 15 minute initial consultation with me to find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
about neurodivergent counselling in Canberra
Do I need a formal diagnosis?
No. You may have a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism, or you may self-identify. Those who are simply exploring whether neurodivergence explains your experience area also welcome.
Do I need a referral?
No, you do not need a referral from your GP or psychiatrist. Referrals are welcome but not required. If you would like me to send feedback to your referring doctor, I can do so with your consent.
Is this the same as ADHD coaching?
No. Counselling focuses on emotional wellbeing, identity, and processing experiences like burnout, masking, or shame, while ADHD coaching is more practical and goal-focused, helping with things like organisation, time management, and follow-through. Both can be helpful, but they support different aspects of your life.
Will you try to 'fix' me?
No. I do not believe neurodivergence is something to be fixed. I believe experiences such as ADHD and Autism are natural differences in the human brain to be respected and valued. The focus of our work together is self-understanding, integration of a new identity, and creating a life that works for your neurotype.
Ready to take the first step?
Book a free 15 minute call
Reaching out is the hardest part. You don't need to have it all figured out, or know exactly what you want to say. A tentative hello is enough.
But, a very important factor in the success of therapy is the relationship you have with your therapist.
I recommend prospective clients book a free 15 minute consultation to get a sense of whether we are a good fit before you commit. There's no obligation and no pressure.
Click the button below to access my online booking page and find a time that is convenient for you. We can speak by phone or video call.
Please note that I only see people 15 years old or over.
Please also check out my FAQs if you have other questions. They may be answered there.
Request contact by email
To contact me via email, please send a message via the contact form below.
A note for practitioners
GP, psychiatrist, psychologist, occupational therapist, allied health referrals
If you're a GP, psychiatrist, psychologist, occupational therapist, or allied health practitioner looking for a referral pathway for clients, I'd be glad to help. I work collaboratively and am happy to have a brief conversation before or after a referral to support continuity of care.
I also accept referrals for self- or plan-managed NDIS participants.
You can reach me directly on 0411 035 820 or via the contact form above.