Participants required

I am seeking participants who:

• are qualified counsellors or psychotherapists

• are currently practising

• have been diagnosed (self-diagnosed or formally diagnosed) as neurodivergent in adulthood

• are interested in speaking about their experiences

What is the aim of the study?

• This study aims to explore the lived experience of late-diagnosed neurodivergent therapists.

• A sub-aim is to explore their perceptions of how this experience influences their clinical practice and the meaning they make of this.

• It is hoped that this research will contribute to a richer understanding of neurodivergent experiences, centering the voice of neurodivergent therapists, supporting neuro-affirmative therapeutic work.

Who is doing the study?

• My name is Pip (she/her)

• I am final-year student, conducting this research as part of my MA in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Minster Centre

• My interest in this topic arises from my own experiences of being a neurodivergent counsellor who was diagnosed as neurodivergent in adulthood

What will be involved if I take part?

• 1 semi-structured interview held online, lasting around 45-60 mins

• Interviews will aim to be conducted in as relaxed and comfortable way as possible, according to your needs and preferences

• All data will be fully anonymised

• The interview will be recorded and stored securely 

What are the benefits to taking part?

Taking part offers an opportunity to:

• Contribute your lived experience to an under-researched area

• To help build a better understanding of the experiences of neurodivergent counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK

• The findings may go on to inform a build a better understanding of neuro-affirming approaches and a more inclusive professional environment.

Who has reviewed this study?

• Ethical approval has been granted by The Minster Centre’s Ethics Committee

• The study will be will be conducted in accordance with BACP ethical guidelines for research

Who can I contact about further information?

Please see here for more information.

To view the participant information sheet, please see here.

If you would like to take part, or if you have any questions about this research, please contact Pip.