What is neurodiversity coaching?

Neurodiversity is the natural variation that occurs in the way that our brains process information.

Neurodivergent conditions (also referred to as Neurotypes) are:

We know that neurodivergent minds process in a different way to neurotypical minds. It’s important to note the use of the word ‘different’ here, as opposed to any problems or deficits that need to be fixed. I use the term ‘neurodiversity coaching’ to describe coaching that specifically addresses the challenges that are often experienced when you have a neurodivergent mind and you live in a neurotypical world.

These differences in the way that brains process information can be both strengths and challenges for an individual. However, society often focuses more on the challenges. Even the language that is used for neurodivergent conditions include ‘deficit’ and ‘disorder’. I choose to use a strengths-based approach in coaching. I do this because this approach works for me. I identify as autistic and it has been helpful for me to focus more of my time and effort on developing my strengths and natural talents. It’s similar to choosing a niche for your career and being a subject matter expert in that niche, rather than becoming a generalist. Becoming a subject-matter expert aligns with my ‘Learner’ strength and my autistic trait of

Neurodivergent-inclusive environment

Coaching is usually a one-to-one process (although some coaches do offer one-to-many group coaching). Some work may take place before and after our conversations, but we do need to have one-to-one conversations. I do understand that the prospect of having these conversations may be difficult. I identify as autistic and an introvert. My intention is to provide the environment where you can be most comfortable. So please do let me know if you have any accommodations that would help you take part in one-to-one coaching. My preference is a cameras-on video call for our coaching sessions. We don’t need to be making eye contact or be using the cameras throughout the session if that makes conversation more difficult. It’s fine if you want to get up and moving around during our conversation. And if you concentrate best when you are using a stim or fidget toy, then that’s fine with me! I have a stash of LEGO at my desk for the same reason 🙂

What you can expect from me

I welcome the opportunity to support anyone with any diagnosed or a suspected condition. I also work with neurotypical clients. There is no ‘qualifying criteria’ that you need to meet in order to work with me.

What you can expect from me is as a coach is someone who will listen. I will ensure there is time and space for you to explore your condition, which may be something you have never had the opportunity to do before. I will ask you questions to help you gain greater self-awareness of how your condition impacts you and your life. We can then develop practical steps that can work for you. This is not about working through a checklist. Each individual will be impacted in different ways, will have a different set of strengths to use and will be working in a unique environment.

There are many ways in which you can use the benefits from coaching in the work you do:

• Have more understanding how to advocate for your needs
• Feel more confident contributing to group meetings
• Put in place routines and processes to reduce anxiety
• Reduce the impact of your sensory sensitivities
• Improve your work-communications with colleagues
• Gain more confidence taking part in small-talk
• Reduce exhaustion caused by masking
• Feel more in control with how you organise your work
• Increased energy at the end of the working day

For line managers

I have a passion for helping neurodivergent individuals to perform at their best while at work and find contentment in their working life. If you are a line manager, then I would love to support you in better understanding neurodivergent minds and how you can support your team members to perform at their best.

I also offer neurodiversity awareness training for teams and for organisations.