Counselling for Dyspraxia, Dyslexia and Related Conditions

"I find complex mathematical analysis a walk in the park, whereas an actual walk in the park, when you're lost, late, disorientated and can't cope with the sun is a nightmare" (Aileen Quenton)

Neuro-Diversity is an umbrella term. It refers to conditions which are present from birth and can cause difficulties with literacy, numeracy, memory, organisation, concentration, perception,
co ordination, and listening skills. It is thought that 20% of the population have significant difficulties and that many more of us have some degree of neuro-Divergence.

Characteristics of Neuo-Diversity can also include exceptional abilities, originality, deternination, creativity, strategic thinking and empathy.

Counselling issues

People with Neuro-Diverse conditions can have problems 'fitting' within their family, the educational system, work and social situations. They often struggle with tasks which the majority take for granted and are likely to under achieve educationally unless their condition is understood and provided for.

They may have to deal with bullying and labels such as lazy, stupid, naughty, imature and strange. This can result in low confidence and low self-esteem, loneliness and depression. There may be anxiety and frustration around managing daily activities and distress associated with feeling different and a failure.

"Everyone says I'm stupid but I know I'm not. I wish someone could understand what its like to be me. I feel so fed up and lonely" (8 year old boy who has dyspraxia)

Below is a summary of Neuro-Diverse conditions. They can occur singly or in various combinations.

ADHD - Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder
Easily distracted, impulsive, temper outbursts, quickly frustrated

Autistic Spectrum Disorder including Asperger's Syndrome
Obsessiveness, social and communication difficulties, literal thinking

Dyscalculia
Difficulties with numbers

Dyslexia
Difficulties with sequencing, reading, writing and spelling

Dyspraxia
Poor balance, co ordination, spacial awareness, organisation and memory

Tourettes Syndrome
Verbal and physical tics, may have obsessions and compulsions

The Benefits of Counselling

Your counsellor will respect and value you and will want to understand your experiences and the challenges you face. Talking to a qualified person can help you to come to terms with past experiences and to address current issues. Counselling is an opportunity to know yourself at a deeper level. It can enable you to feel more confident and empower you to make decisios and changes in your life.

People who have a child, sibling or spouse with the conditions I have described also face particular challenges and can benefit from exploring these with the support and understanding of an experienced counsellor.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss any counselling issue including Neuro-Diversity.

paulanewman930@hotmail.com
www.accessiblecounselling.com

Further Information

Developmental Adult Neuro-Diversity Association (DANDA)
www.danda.org.uk