Service categories: Counselling and therapies

Service URL: https://www.navigatetherapy.co.uk

Secondary URL: https://www.bacp.co.uk/therapists/383657/laura-whitnell

Hello , I'm Laura.

Whatever brings you to therapy, whether it's a diagnosis, a life experience or simply a feeling that something doesn't feel right, I'll meet you with curiosity and compassion. I use several therapeutic approaches flexibly, guided by what feels helpful. Alongside what you already know about yourself, I will notice and hold in mind aspects of your experience that may not yet feel clear to you. Together, we can begin to make sense of the protective patterns and beliefs that have helped you cope, developing a shared understanding of you & your world, creating lasting, meaningful change.

Whether you're clinically diagnosed, self-identify or are exploring whether you may be neurodivergent, I work collaboratively to help you better understand yourself, your relationships and your needs. Our work can be guided by a neurodivergent-affirming lens. Together, we can explore burnout, communication and the impact of living in a predominantly neurotypical world. This can include understanding your unique sensory profile through sensory mapping, identifying and meeting your physical, mental and emotional needs, recognising the impact of masking and supporting safe unmasking where helpful. We can also develop practical strategies and evidence-informed tools that help you live in ways that feel authentic and sustainable.

Where helpful, I draw on energy-pacing concepts such as Spoon Theory and use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) (a type of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) in a neurodivergent-informed way to support psychological flexibility, values-led living and self-acceptance.

I have extensive experience as a fully qualified, BACP accredited, trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in low mood and depression, worries and anxiety, grief and loss, self harm, suicidal thoughts, self esteem and self image, stress, phobias, infertility, intrusive thoughts and compulsive responses and OCD, life transitions, relationships, parenting, adverse life experiences and trauma. I specialise in offering counselling and psychotherapy, supporting those who identify as autistic/have autism, PDA and/or ADHD.

To read testimonials and to learn more about my approach you can visit my website.

Aimed at: Adult

Specialisms: Autism and Neurodivergent

Other specialisms: First Contact I understand there may be some anxiety or anticipation about getting started, so we'll go at your pace. Once you've made contact, I'll let you know my current availability and arrange a free telephone consultation. This gives us an opportunity to explore what's prompted you to get in touch, answer any questions you may have and let you know how I might be of support.​​​ First Session ​Before the first session I'll send you everything you'll need, including details of how to join online sessions or directions and practical information if you're attending in person, so you know exactly what to expect. ​​​​I work from a private therapy room in West Christchurch. The therapy room benefits from air-conditioning and heating and a private entrance. Our first session is an information gathering of what you feel will be helpful for me to know for our work together. We'll review our work together regularly and move at a pace that feels manageable for you.