I am offering a therapy group for individuals who have reached an understanding in adulthood that they may be neurodivergent. This could be through self-research or through diagnosis. The “umbrella of neurodivergence” may cover the following:
- Autism, or Autism Spectrum Conditions
- ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADD: Attention Deficit Disorder
- Dyscalculia
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia, or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
It is essential that we understand our own individual needs when it comes to our neurodiversity. Simply understanding that there is a diagnosable condition does not have to be the final step. You can work through to understand how your neurodivergence impacts you on a day-to-day basis, and gain an insight into how to support yourself in that impact.
It can be overwhelming to consider allowing ourselves to be seen for who we really are in a world that favours a neurotypical lens. In group therapy, you can explore unmasking and allowing yourself to be seen by others who have a shared experience (including the therapist).
Group therapy can be extremely helpful in challenging our thoughts, feelings and behaviours when it comes to both relationships and our interpersonal world.
What is group therapy?
Group therapy is a space for a small gathering of individuals, facilitated by a qualified therapist, to come together to discuss and explore their experiences.
Participants are asked to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a supportive and confidential environment. Group therapy offers a platform for members to give and receive feedback, offer insights, and learn from each other’s perspectives. The interactions within the group promote self-awareness, empathy, and personal growth, while also allowing individuals to practise new ways of relating and communicating.
Overall, group therapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to collaborate, heal, and develop coping strategies in the company of others facing similar challenges.
Why Neurodivergence in Adults?
When I came to the understanding that I have autism, I was already in my thirties. This revelation led me to experience a wide range of feelings. On the one hand, there was a huge sense of relief which came from finally making sense of many aspects of my life; on the other, a heavy grief for the version of me who had to adapt to the world around me for so long.
This has motivated me to set up a group for those who have only learned this about themselves in adulthood. Each individual will have their own story of how this has been for them. In group therapy, that experience will be respected as an individual experience, while also being held in the safety of those who may resonate with your story.
Coming to this realisation as an adult can come with:
- Feelings of being missed or not seen
- Burnout from having to mask or adapt to a neurotypical world
- A felt sense of life always being hard
- Grief with how life could have been if you had known sooner
- A lasting impact of shame from holding that you are “alien” or “different”
If you feel this is a group you would like to be part of, please contact me on info@leighwhittakertherapy.co.uk expressing your interest in group therapy. Alternatively, please fill in the form found at the bottom of this page.
My Qualifications
- Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling from Northern Guild
- Diploma in Integrative Relational Psychotherapy from Scarborough Counselling and Psychotherapy Institute
- Certificate in Group Facilitation Skills from PCI College
Register your interest
If this sounds like a space that would benefit you, please use the form below to register your interest in attending group therapy sessions.
