What Are ADHD and Autism?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental conditions that affect the way people experience the world, process information and relate to others. They are not illnesses to be “cured” but differences in brain wiring that can bring both strengths and challenges.
Many people with ADHD or autism receive their diagnosis in childhood, but increasingly adults are being diagnosed later in life. While a diagnosis can bring clarity, it can also raise new questions and emotions.
Common challenges may include:
- Difficulties with attention, organisation or executive functioning
- Sensory sensitivities and feeling easily overwhelmed
- Challenges in social communication or relationships
- Feelings of difference, isolation or being misunderstood
- Low self-esteem linked to years of coping without support
- Co-occurring difficulties such as anxiety, stress or low mood
How Can Therapy Help?
We do not currently provide ADHD or autism assessments at Seven Lion Yard. However, our psychologists do offer therapeutic support for people adjusting to a diagnosis, navigating associated difficulties or wanting to better understand themselves.
Therapy can support you to:
- Explore what a diagnosis means for you and your identity
- Develop strategies for managing stress, overwhelm and daily demands
- Build self-acceptance and challenge self-criticism
- Work through feelings of grief, anger or relief following a diagnosis
- Strengthen relationships and communication with others
- Manage co-occurring difficulties such as anxiety, depression or trauma
What Approaches Might Be Used?
We tailor therapy to your needs, drawing on a range of approaches:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): helps with anxiety, low mood and unhelpful thought patterns
- Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT): supports building self-kindness and countering shame or self-criticism
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): helps clarify values and focus on what matters most, even alongside ongoing challenges
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): can support people who have experienced trauma, bullying or discrimination related to being neurodivergent
Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to identify the most helpful approach for your needs.
Is Therapy Right for You?
Therapy may be helpful if you are:
- Adjusting to a recent ADHD or autism diagnosis
- Feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day demands, sensory sensitivities or burnout
- Struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem linked to being neurodivergent
- Wanting to strengthen communication and relationships with others
- Seeking a safe, supportive space to explore your identity as a neurodivergent person
At Seven Lion Yard, we aim to provide thoughtful, evidence-based and compassionate support, helping neurodivergent people feel understood, resourced and better able to navigate life in a way that works for them.
