What to expect when working with neurodiverse clients
Working with neurodiverse clients effectively requires understanding how different neurotypes experience the therapeutic environment itself.
For clients with ADHD, the session structure matters. Time management, impulse control, and sustaining focus can all be genuinely challenging within a standard format. Shorter sessions with regular breaks can make a significant difference.
For autistic clients, social norms and unspoken expectations within therapy may not be clear. Verbal emotional expression can be difficult, and sensory sensitivities can cause dysregulation before or during sessions. Clear, concise language, structured environments, and written or visual materials can all help.
The underlying principle is individualisation. Behavioural, sensory-based, and mindfulness-based approaches all have a role, tailored to the specific neuroprofile of the person in front of you.
This is Part 1. Part 2 continues next week.
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Dr Ravi Gill
Chartered Health Psychologist & Practitioner Psychologist
Specialisation: ADHD, Anxiety, Burnout, Trauma, Depression, Identity, Work-Related Distress
Regulatory Body: BPS
Based in: Online, UK
