No. Neurodiversity-affirming counselling can support people with many forms of neurodivergence, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and Tourette syndrome. Parents, partners and carers may also seek counselling support.

Yes. Counselling can explore anxiety while also considering factors that may be particularly relevant to neurodivergent people, such as sensory overload, masking, communication difficulties, environmental demands and burnout.

Masking refers to consciously or unconsciously hiding or changing aspects of yourself to fit social expectations. It can include suppressing natural behaviours, copying others or hiding difficulties. Some people find that prolonged masking contributes to stress and exhaustion.

Generally, no. Counselling and diagnosis are different services. A counsellor may have knowledge and experience relating to autism or ADHD, but whether they can provide a formal diagnosis depends on their qualifications, registration and scope of practice. If you are seeking an assessment, ask a suitably qualified professional about the diagnostic process.

Neurodiversity-affirming principles can be applied when supporting children and young people, but the counselling approach should be developmentally appropriate and involve consideration of the child's individual needs, family context and relevant professional and safeguarding requirements. Some counsellors work only with adults.