'The Psychotherapeutic Counsellor' - Learning disability Therapist in Chelmsford
Therapy for Adults with Learning Disabilities
Everyone deserves a safe and confidential space to talk about what is happening in their lives. This includes adults with mild learning disabilities or difficulties, who may sometimes find it harder to access the right support, including counselling for adults and teens.
In my practice, I offer a calm and welcoming environment where you can speak freely about your experiences. Together, we can think about what is happening for you now, explore what might be causing distress, and make sense of your own story.
My approach is non-directive, which means you set the pace. You decide what feels most important to talk about, and I listen carefully to help you find understanding and clarity.
For some people, talking is enough. For others, it can be helpful to explore feelings in more creative ways. This might include drawing, using objects, or other forms of expression that help make sense of emotions and experiences.
Depending on what is happening for you or for the adult you support, psychotherapy for learning difficulties might sometimes be the best next step. These therapies are often provided through NHS Talking Therapies for adults with learning disabilities. However, long waiting lists can mean a delay in accessing that support. In such cases, many people find that starting counselling or psychotherapy can be valuable while waiting, helping to build confidence and understanding before moving on to more specialist work.
My aim is to provide a respectful and understanding space where all people, regardless of cognitive ability, can talk openly about their lives and experiences. Therapy for learning disabilities is not about fixing or changing who you are. It is about understanding yourself better and finding a sense of steadiness and meaning in your life.
Therapy for Older Teenagers with Learning Disabilities
Alongside my work providing counselling for adults and teens, I also see older teenagers with learning disabilities or difficulties. This can be a particularly important stage in life, when young people are navigating new responsibilities, relationships, and changes in how they see themselves. Therapy for learning disabilities can offer a steady space to talk about worries, explore feelings, and build confidence in who they are becoming.
As with my work with adults, psychotherapy for learning difficulties is adapted to suit each person’s way of communicating. Some young people prefer to talk, while others may find it easier to express themselves through drawing, creative activities, or using objects to represent their experiences. My aim is always to provide a space that feels safe, respectful, and supportive.
Why choose me?
I am a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist with a degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy. Alongside my professional training, I bring a personal understanding of the challenges and strengths that can come with learning disabilities. As a parent of a teenager with learning disabilities, autism, and physical disabilities, I have spent the past seventeen years supporting a young person growing into adulthood while navigating these additional needs. This journey has shaped my perspective and informed my approach to therapy for learning disabilities, emphasizing empathy, patience, and respect for each individual’s unique way of understanding and communicating.
In my professional practice, I provide counselling for adults and teens, working with both older teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. I offer them a safe and understanding space to explore their experiences. My goal is always to meet people where they are, support them in making sense of their feelings, and help them build confidence in who they are.
Based in Chelmsford, Essex, I see all my clients with a learning disability face to face.
Learning Disability and Learning Difficulty – What Is the Difference?
A learning disability affects how a person understands information and learns new skills, impacting communication and daily living. Individuals with a learning disability may require varying levels of support, which can be enhanced through counselling for adults and teens. On the other hand, a learning difficulty does not impact overall intelligence; it refers to challenges in specific areas of learning, such as reading, writing, or coordination. Common examples include dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia. For those facing such challenges, psychotherapy for learning difficulties can provide valuable strategies and support. In summary, a learning disability affects general understanding and everyday life skills, while a learning difficulty targets particular aspects of learning, both of which can benefit from appropriate therapy for learning disabilities.