Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by the word neurodiverse?
There are so many 'buzz words' around, sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming and tricky to understand exactly what they all mean!
I'll try to explain some of these words in a simple way so hopefully things begin making a little more sense.
Firstly, let's split that word up into 2 parts... Neuro - Diverse.
Neuro - refers to anything within the body that relates to nerve and nervous system. That includes your brain, spine and nervous system.
Diverse - is different, varied, not identical.
Neurodiverse simply means that the neuro parts inside a persons body are different to that which may be expected. On the flip side of this, the phrase neurotypical, relates to those neuro body elements being typical and as expected.
Neurodiverse, neurodivergent, neurodiversity, they're all kinda the same thing and definitely not dirty words! I mean, who wants to be the same as everybody else anyway, right?!
Imagine your brain is like a computer that helps you think, feel, and do things. Neurodiversity is a way to talk about the different and varying ways people's brains can work. Even though our brains grow in similar ways, they end up working in their own unique styles. They are all Uniquely Wired (see what I did there 😉)
How do I get assessed for ADHD or ASD?
If you're in the UK and think you or someone you care about might have ASD or ADHD, there are steps you can take to get assessed. It's kind of like going on a journey to understand your brain better!
Just a little heads up though, it can be a long wait and an arduous process to endure. Having an advocate, somebody like me who can help you navigate the process is usually worth it's weight in gold!
Here's some pointers for you which may be helpful, just to confuse the situation more, there's different routes to go down for children and adults!
💜For Children
If it's a child, like someone younger than 18, the first step is usually talking to their teacher or doctor. They can help figure out if there are things that need a closer look.
If they think it's possible, they might refer you to a specialist, like a pediatrician or child psychologist. These folks are really good at understanding how kids' brains work and ultimately are where you'll need to get to in order to pursue a diagnosis.
💜For Adults
If it's an adult, things can start with your usual doctor. You can tell them about your concerns, and they might refer you to a mental health specialist or a specialist team, or consultant.
An increasingly popular option is a pathway called 'Right To Choose' through Psychiatry-UK. You'll be guided through some forms to complete yourself and by your regular GP.
💜Getting a Diagnosis
When you see these specialists, they'll ask you questions about your thoughts, feelings, and how you do things. This helps them understand your brain better. They might also talk to your family or people who know you well to get a full picture. If they think you might have ASD or ADHD, they can give you a diagnosis. This is like putting the puzzle pieces together to see if it fits.
Remember, getting a diagnosis doesn't change who you are and there is no obligation for somebody who thinks they may be neurodiverse to go down the road of obtaining a diagnosis. You can still carry on your life as normal, with or without one, although many people find that it allows them the opportunity to understand themselves more; not to mention also accessing the right support.
💜In addition to the NHS system, there is the choice to pay for assessments privately. While there is a cost involved, some people prefer this method to skip the long NHS waiting times. If this is a route you want to consider it's mega important to ensure you choose the right person. Personal recommendations are always best, rather than just taking pot-luck. There are organisations who charge an excessive amount to support this process, but what they offer is not of good value, so be careful!
Whilst I don't offer assessments and diagnoses, I am able to support and help you work through this process, either with NHS or privately.
💜Helpful Links
For more info about getting a diagnosis for autism (ASD) in the UK, you can check out the National Autistic Society's website:
(https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/diagnosis/diagnosing-autism)
If you're looking for information about ADHD assessments and support, visit the NHS website:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/diagnosis/)
💜For more information about Right To Choose, follow this link:
https://psychiatry-uk.com/right-to-choose/
Remember, taking steps to understand yourself better is a great thing! It's like exploring your own unique map of who you are. You're not alone on this journey there are people who can help you along the way.
What is masking?
Neurodivergent masking is when someone with a neurodiverse way of thinking and feeling hides or changes some parts of themselves to fit in better with what's considered "normal" in their workplace or society.
For example, imagine someone who has autism. They might have certain behaviours or ways of thinking that are unique to them, but they might feel pressured to act more like everyone else to avoid standing out. This can be a bit like putting on a mask to cover up their true selves. They might mimic how others act, even if it doesn't come naturally to them, just to avoid being seen as different.
ADHDers might completely cancel their plans rather than arrive late, to avoid comments about their tardiness. There are many reasons why neurodivergent people mask. The most prominent is to 'fit in' with peers either at school or work.
Masking may involve suppressing certain behaviours we find soothing but that others think are 'weird', such as stimming or intense interests. It can also mean mimicking the behaviour of those around us, such as copying non-verbal behaviours, and developing complex social scripts to get by in social situations.
Neurodivergent masking can be challenging because it can lead to stress, anxiety, and a feeling of not being true to oneself. It's like trying to fit into a puzzle piece that doesn't quite match. People might do it to avoid negative reactions from others or to succeed in school or work, but it can take a toll on their well-being.
It's important to recognize and understand neurodivergent masking because it highlights the need for acceptance and inclusion. Everyone should be able to be themselves without feeling like they have to hide who they really are.
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and guess what? It's another way some people's brains work differently.
People with ADHD might find it a bit tricky to focus on one thing for a long time, or become so intensely hooked on a task that everything else sort of disappears into oblivion for a while. They might get easily distracted or feel like they have a lot of energy all the time. Swinging between boredom and hyperactivity, experiencing addiction and impulsive behaviours are also commonly seen in those diagnosed with ADHD.
An ADHD brain has some incredible traits which can make for super creativity and great at thinking outside the box. But it might also mean somebody may find it a bit hard to sit still or pay attention in certain situations, like in work meetings or school lessons, or during tasks that need a lot of concentration.
ADHD has a unique way of showing up in different people. Some individuals might have trouble paying attention to details and following through with tasks, while others might be prone to making careless mistakes. They might also struggle with organizing things and managing time effectively. People with ADHD might find it hard to stay still or sit quietly when they're supposed to, and they might talk a lot or interrupt others in conversations.
Interestingly, as with ASD, ADHD symptoms can be a bit different between males and females. In general, boys tend to show more of the hyperactive and impulsive behaviours that are often associated with ADHD. They might be more fidgety, restless, and have trouble waiting their turn.
Girls, on the other hand, might not show these external signs as prominently. Instead, they might appear to be daydreaming, quiet, or withdrawn. This can sometimes lead to girls being underdiagnosed or diagnosed later in life because their symptoms might not match the traditional understanding of ADHD.
ADHD doesn't mean someone is not intelligent or capable. In fact, many people with ADHD are incredibly creative, energetic, and have a unique way of looking at the world.
Just like with ASD, being ADHD doesn't mean someone is not intelligent or capable. In fact, many people with ADHD are incredibly creative, energetic, and have a unique way of looking at the world.
What is ASD?
ASD - Austism Spectrum Disorder
You're going to see a bit of a common theme occurring here, as this is really another way of describing somebody who is neurodiverse; it just relates to a specific section of neurodiverse people.
Just like a spectrum of colours, imagine a rainbow (or that cool pattern of colours that you see on the pavement when oil has gotten wet in the rain and the light catches it the right way!) ASD comes in different shades. This means that not everyone with ASD is the same.
Some people might need extra help with communication, understanding emotions or types of behaviours, while others might have amazing talents like remembering lots of details, needing very strict boundaries or by being really creative.
People with ASD might think, feel, and do things a bit differently than what society at large may usually expect. This can make them really good at certain things, but they might find some other things a bit challenging.
ASD is a neurological and developmental disorder, usually (but not exclusively) diagnosed during childhood when particular milestones such as talking/walking/eating/independence are noticed as not taking place at the expected ages, or maybe a cause of concern for parents and health professionals.
ASD presents differently across genders, for instance, boys tend to show Autistic traits (and be diagnosed sooner) at a much younger age than girls (who are often diagnosed during teenage years). There are many theories and lots of research carried out as to why there is a marked distinction. Girls tend to cover up and hide their challenges (known as masking) whilst boys often display more severe and problematic behaviours.
Links to genetics, brain size, fetal development and many more studies are constantly taking place in order to learn more about what ASD looks like in males and females.
Ultimately though, everybody is different and it's all about how some brains have their own unique style of thinking and feeling, again, Uniquely Wired! 😉
Do you only help people who are neurodiverse?
The short answer is no!
I work with a wide range of individuals across a wide range of challenges, including mental health difficulties, addiction, trauma, and much more.
I have a lived experience of everything that I help people with now which allows me to really understand exactly what you're going through. Whatever it is that you're facing, I offer a safe space, a judgement free zone, and a therapeutic environment for you to share, heal and move forward.
Whether you're neurodiverse or not, every single person experiences challenging times and situations throughout their life. My approach helps you to understand the way that your brain works in its own wonderful and unique way, learning new skills and coping strategies to improve your quality of life and mental well-being.
I use a combination of Neurodiverse friendly CBT/DBT Skills/REBT/Motivational Interviewing/Counselling Skills/Psychosocial Interventions/Mindfulness and Life Coaching.
Face to face clients also have the option of having Auricular Acupuncture as part of their treatment. I aim to make this normally expensive treatment accessible to everyone as the benefits include improved sleep, relaxation, better concentration, physical and emotional pain management, detoxification and a calmer mind.
I strongly believe that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and compassion. Once a trusting relationship is formed where you feel supported and understood, obstacles can be removed and the sky is the limit with what you can achieve!
My work with families, couples, individual adults and children helps to create a more harmonious life for everybody involved, and who doesn't want a little of that, right?!
How can I tell if I am neurodiverse?
Wondering if you're neurodiverse? Well, it's all about looking at how your brain works and how you think, feel, and act. If you notice that you do things a bit differently compared to most people around you, there's a chance you might be neurodiverse.
Remember though, if you recognise some of the following points it doesn't automatically mean that you are Autistic or ADHD. Similarly, not all people who are neurodiverse experience these symptoms.
Diagnoses are usually given by consultants after thorough and extensive information has been collated, often over a period of time; especially in the case of children who may be presenting with many common traits.
Here are a few signs to think about:
💜Unique Ways of Thinking
Do you often find yourself thinking in ways that are really creative or different? Maybe you're super good at something, like remembering details, that others find a bit hard.
💜Emotional Quirks
Are your emotions sometimes intense or different from what you see in others? You might feel things deeply or have a hard time understanding and expressing your feelings.
💜Sensory Sensitivity
Are you sensitive to things like noises, lights, textures, or smells? Sometimes neurodiverse folks can have stronger reactions to sensory things.
💜Social Interactions
Do you find social situations a bit tricky? You might feel more comfortable alone, have trouble reading social cues, or struggle to make friends easily.
💜Patterns and Routines
Do you like routines and get upset when things change? Having a strong need for routines is common among neurodiverse individuals.
💜Hyperfocus or Difficulty Focusing
Do you sometimes get really absorbed in something and lose track of time? Or do you find it hard to concentrate on things that aren't super interesting to you?
Remember, being neurodiverse isn't a bad thing! It just means your brain has its own unique style, and that's pretty cool! If you're curious about it, talking to a professional like a doctor/psychologist, or somebody like me can help you understand yourself better.
But the most important thing is to be kind to yourself and embrace your awesome individuality, never forgetting how wonderfully Uniquely Wired you are!
How do I recognise if I might need some help?
Are you tired of feeling misunderstood, struggling with low self-esteem & battling overwhelming emotions?
Does it feel like everyone around you has their life together, except you?
Is procrastination, lack of focus, insomnia, boredom or depression showing up in your daily life & you don’t seem able to get any of it under control; despite desperately trying?
You may have spent your entire life feeling ‘not quite enough’ having been thrown around the system; never landing in quite the right place to receive the necessary support & guidance.
My own emotional, mental & physical wellbeing has been thoroughly tested to the max over the years. I completely understand what you’ve been through, the challenges you face & the help you need to improve your life. Rest assured, I get it & I’m here for you, every step of the way.
Acceptance begins with you, warts & all!
You are a whole & complete person, regardless of what you may have been led to believe. Your feelings are totally valid, as are your needs; on every level. With my guidance you will soon realise that you are more than enough; you always have been.
Self awareness is a powerful tool.
Recognising your own uniqueness is wonderfully liberating & enables you to discover exactly what you require to live your life, on your terms. Embedding coping strategies into your life allows you the opportunity to process information in a way which makes sense to you. Your heightened inner awareness provides the perfect base on which to build solid, mutually respectful relationships with those around you.
Motivation versus overwhelm.
Recognising how you function in various situations gives you the knowledge to ensure you have the correct tools in place to support yourself. You may need to time to rest & recover, you may perform well under pressure. The deeper your understanding goes, the more you can help yourself. Whether that’s maintaining focus, facing challenges, managing distractions or hyper focus mode.
Replace despair with hope.
Cultivating an unshakeable self-confidence & learning to trust your instincts provides you with the ability to regulate your emotional & mental wellbeing. Understanding how to process your emotions, reactions & responses in a way that supports what you need to thrive; not just survive. You will feel able to effectively communicate with those around you. Giving friends/family/colleagues the opportunity to become more knowledgeable & understanding about what you require.
There is so much I can share with you & many ways I can help you; so let’s talk. I will listen without judgement, always. 💜
What is Auricular Acupuncture?
Auricular acupuncture is a commonly practiced technique that involves the stimulation of specific points on the ear and has traditionally been used to support people with addiction.
However, it is increasingly being used to treat other mental and emotional health issues such as post-traumatic stress, self-harm, anger management, sleep problems etc.
Compared to body acupuncture, the auricular acupuncture is less painful and more convenient to patients. Many studies have reported the effect of body acupuncture in reducing anxiety syndromes. Other researches also indicated that auricular acupuncture also could relieve anxiety.
What qualifications do you have in all this stuff?
I'm glad you asked, because I have so many! As well as having 'walked the talk' I have educated myself a lot and have quite an impressive (if I do say so myself 😉) string of qualifications to my name!
I'll list them all here so you can get a better idea about all the different ways in which I can help you.
💜 I am a qualified and certified Neurodiversity Life Coach and Addiction Specialist registered as an Advanced Practitioner with Addiction Professionals
💜Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CQF) CPCAB
Regulated by Ofqual
💜Level 3 Groupwork Skills with accreditation AptEd
💜Level 3 in Working with Substance Misuse
City and Guilds of London Institute Regulated by Ofqual
💜SMART Recovery Facilitator/Champion
💜UK SMART Recovery Self-Management and Recovery Training
💜Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CQF) CPCAB
💜Level 4 Certificate in Working with Substance Misuse
City and Guilds of London Institute- Regulated by Ofqual
💜Focus Awards Level 3 Diploma in Fitness Instructing and Personal Training (RQF) Regulated by Ofqual and CEA
💜Diploma Level 3 in Life Coaching with Distinction
Cressingham Coaching Academy ACCPH Accredited Course
💜Nada Practitioner- Nada Five Point Protocol for Substance Misuse and Stress Management
💜Nada GB ear acupuncture
💜NVQ Level 2 in Business and Administration EDI
Regulated by Ofqual
See, I told you there was a lot! When I say I can help you with pretty much anything Neuro (brain) related, I really do mean it!
Can you help organisations be more inclusive?
Absolutely, yes! I want to dispel myths and create understanding for the neurodiverse community. Simultaneously empowering people whilst helping companies to work with colleagues who are neurodiverse in more effective and creative ways.
I feel very strongly that neurodiverse people have all too often been subjected to workplace trauma having been made to feel different and excluded. It's just not right and there is no reason why everybody can't work happily and successfully together.
Many organisations do not take into account the needs of their individual employees, which ultimately means that they are not getting the best out of their teams. This can lead to increased sick days, low staff morale, high churn rates, less productivity and ultimately affects the profit margins and bottom line within a business.
My workplace mentoring and workshops are perfect for employers who recognise that things need to change within their business. There is so much that needs to be improved upon within this area and with small steps, businesses can provide a renewed environment for their staff.
Can you help me with applications and assessments?
Yes, I sure can! As I've mentioned, this kind of stuff can be really difficult to navigate when you're doing it alone, or have never been through these processes before.
I provide more practical, hands on support with Access to Work applications for people with disabilities who need further financial support or work aids to flourish in their job.
This can also give you access to up to 30 free coaching sessions with me (obviously worth looking into just for that part 😉); you just have to be working to qualify, either employed or self employed.
I can assist with applying for PIP/DLA and Universal Credit applications to make sure that you or your child are getting the benefits that you are eligible for.
Having completed all of these for myself and my own family and countless people I work with, I can make the whole process much less painful for you! Having my support with this kind of stuff also ensures that you're not leaving out something which is super important. I can help you to focus your attention on the relevant information that needs to be submitted.
What is Access to Work?
It's brilliant, that's what it is! Imagine you're at work, and you need some extra help because of how your brain works. That's where Access to Work comes in if you're in the UK.
Access to Work is like a helpful friend for people with disabilities or health conditions. It's there to make sure you can do your job comfortably and confidently.
💜How It Works
Let's say you need special tools, equipment, or support to do your work because of your unique way of thinking. Access to Work can help pay for these things, so you can do your job without any problems.
💜Getting Started
First, you need to talk to your boss or your HR (human resources) department. Let them know you want to apply for Access to Work. They might need to give some info too, to help with the process.
If you're self employed you can still apply for this funding if there are elements of your business which you find challenging and are negatively impacting your ability to successfully manage your tasks.
💜Assessment
You'll have a chat with someone from Access to Work. They'll figure out what you need to do your job well. It might be things like specialised software, a quiet space, or even a support worker.
Self employed people often find employing a Virtual Assistant or working with a specific coach who specialises in their particular disability to be very advantageous.
💜Funding
If they say yes, they'll help pay for the things you need. They could cover up to 100% of the costs, which is super helpful.
💜How to Apply
To start your journey with Access to Work, you can visit their website here: (https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work)
Basically, Access to Work is here to make sure you're comfortable and successful at work or within your business. Your Uniquely Wired brain doesn't have to hold you back from doing great things!
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Let's Talk
If you’re ready to start feeling understood, supported, and hopeful again — let’s chat.
You can reach out for an informal, pressure-free conversation to see if I’m the right fit for you.
You deserve to be understood.
You deserve to be heard.
And your future can look brighter than you think.
Contact
07982 119 984
sally@uniquelywired.co.uk