Therapy for Autism & ADHD

My Experience

Professional Experience

I have extensive experience working with autistic children, young people and adults, as well as individuals with ADHD and those with a dual diagnosis. My background encompasses both therapeutic and non-therapeutic roles, enabling me to support a wide range of needs and circumstances.

Understanding the Impact of Autism and ADHD

I possess a deep understanding of how autism and ADHD can affect an individual’s life. These conditions can influence personal and social relationships, employment opportunities and numerous other aspects of daily living. Such challenges often have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health and emotional wellbeing, potentially leading to issues such as social anxiety, generalised anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem and reduced confidence.

Experience with Neurodevelopmental

Assessments

I also have experience in providing information relevant to the neurodevelopmental assessment process, ensuring that individuals receive appropriate guidance and support throughout their assessment journey.

Through my experience of working with autistic individuals, I have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges they encounter in social communication. Interacting with others and forming connections can often be confusing, as navigating social cues and expectations may not always come naturally.

Additionally, I recognise the significant impact of alexithymia, which involves difficulties in identifying and understanding one's own emotions. This, combined with issues in sensory processing, can lead to sensory overload, a situation that many find particularly distressing. Furthermore, executive functioning difficulties—such as challenges with organising, planning, or managing time—can also create considerable obstacles in daily life.

Autism

ADHD

Individuals with ADHD frequently encounter a variety of difficulties in their everyday lives. These challenges often manifest as problems with concentration, processing information efficiently, and completing tasks. In addition, executive functioning difficulties are prevalent, making it more challenging to organise, plan, and manage time effectively.

Beyond issues related to focus and organisation, emotional regulation and impulse control can also be problematic for those with ADHD. This may result in struggles to manage emotions and control impulses, which can further complicate daily life.

Social situations may present further challenges, with individuals sometimes finding it difficult to engage with and connect to others. Also struggles with Rejection, Sensitivity, Dysphoria (RSD), which potentially impacts upon relationships and social well-being.

As a qualified ADHD Coach, my career is driven by an understanding of these unique challenges. I am committed to helping individuals with ADHD navigate these difficulties, offering support and guidance to enable them to manage their lives more effectively.

Individualised Approach to Therapy

Every autistic person and every individual with ADHD is unique. While there are shared characteristics within each condition, each individual experiences these traits in their own way. For this reason, therapy is always tailored specifically to the unique needs of each individual. Please note, I do not require a diagnosis to offer you support.

Focus Areas Within Sessions

During our sessions, we will work together to identify and develop strategies to help you or your child improve communication skills and social connections. We will look at practical approaches for managing daily life, as well as ways to build self-advocacy skills. The aim is to support improvements in overall quality of life, emotional wellbeing, and mental health, whilst boosting confidence and self-esteem.

Support for Parents

As part of my work, I also offer support to parents, helping them understand key challenges such as alexithymia, interoception difficulties, and sensory differences. Together, we will explore strategies that can assist both at home and at school, ensuring a holistic approach to support.

Further Information

For more details about working with children and young people, please see Therapy for Children and Young people page.

Therapy

Training

Qualified ADHD Coach
Certificate in understanding Autism
An insight into the world of Autistic spectrum condition
Counselling Clients on the Autistic Spectrum
What you need to know about Autism
Neurodiversity Affirming Play Therapy
Autplay Therapy
ADHD in the Therapy Room- a Neuro Affirming approach
Ongoing Training- ADHD Beyond Medication

Sarah Nichols