Working Therapeutically with Neurodivergent Clients: Meeting the Needs

Up to 20% of the population is neurodivergent, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia. Neurodivergence may underlie resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or what is diagnosed as ‘personality disorders’. Neurodivergent clients, diagnosed or not, are common in the caseload of any mental health professional and often fail to benefit from services not adjusted to their needs. A mismatch in communication between people of different neurotypes — the double empathy problem — and limited training in working with neurodivergent clients can lead to strained therapeutic relationships and poor clinical outcomes.

This workshop is designed for therapy professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and skills in supporting the mental health of autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, and otherwise neurodivergent individuals. We will examine contemporary approaches to neurodiversity and the neuroscience underpinning clinical presentations. Understanding the needs behind mental health difficulties in this population will support more accurate, neurodiversity-informed formulation and intervention. Participants will leave able to adapt their therapeutic work to the cognitive, sensory and communication needs of neurodivergent clients.    

More information can be found on our website here.