a compelling speaker, innovative thinker, and the founder of a pioneering initiative designed to support and inspire the neurodivergent community.

Living life as a dyslexic adult with undiagnosed ADHD and autistic traits, Helen has personally faced the complexities of a neurotypical world and emerged as a beacon of strength and guidance for others.

Helen’s speeches take a trauma-informed approach and resonate with empathy, derived from a personal journey, they brim with practical strategies developed over decades of experience as a mentor, coach, NHS Clinical Director, and Trustee at ADHD Aware.

Helen can capture an audience with an authentic narrative, inspiring humour, and deep-seated commitment to empower each listener. Whether they are wondering if you are neurodivergent, newly diagnosed, adapting to increased challenges, or seeking ways to leverage your neurodivergent superpowers, Helen’s words will guide, enlighten, and uplift you, instilling confidence and offering practical insights.

Talks include (but just get in touch for something tailored to your audience):

1. Tips while waiting for ADHD and Autism assessments 

Embarking on a diagnostic journey often means facing uncertainties, anxieties, and a plethora of questions. This topic touches on some hints and tips to help people while they wait for an assessment, with the aim of helping life feel that little bit easier, looking at strategies that can help maintain mental well-being during this phase, actionable tips to manage potential ADHD symptoms and daily challenges as people await official diagnosis.

2. Trauma and Neurodiversity

This is such a key area to understand as it can significantly affect the community. The nervous system can be different in neurodivergent folk, with neurobiology leading to more vulnerability and increased impact. There is also an increased risk of both ⁠⁠victimization and of developing PTSD (60% likelihood). PTSD itself and neurodiverse traits do overlap significantly. This can at times give a particularly confusing picture, especially in children who experienced tricky starts in life. Children can display traits that look like neurodiversity but are due to their developmental needs not being met. However, it is possible to experience both and whatever the cause, support, nurturing and awareness is required for all.

3. Understanding Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity covers things like ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other conditions which affect how people can view, think and behave in the world. Often neurodivergent folk have unique thinking alongside some key challenges to overcome. Some also can have learning challenges and need a key to unlock their brain, whilst others also have some superpowers! We will explore all this in more detail, especially useful when it is estimated that in the UK at least 1 in 7 (15%) are neurodiverse.

Helen’s Experience & Qualifications:

NHS General Nurse > Intensive Support Manager > Programme Manager NHS > Sussex Clinical Lead > Clinical Director (NHS Coastal West Sussex)

Masters in health management

Post-graduate certificate in Academic Practice

Bachelor of Science Hons Psychology & Counselling (2:1)

Former lecturer at City University in London

What people say about Helen:

“Helen has the ability to capture an audience with an authentic narrative, inspiring humour, and deep-seated commitment to empower each listener… Helen will guide, enlighten, and uplift you, instilling confidence and offering practical insights.”

“Helen’s speeches take a trauma-informed approach and resonate with empathy. Derived from a personal journey, they brim with practical strategies developed over decades of experience as a mentor, coach, NHS Clinical Director, and Trustee at ADHD Aware.”

“We had our management meeting last night and it was agreed that this was the best facilitation we’ve had”

Helen is available for Media comment, articles on her areas of expertise or to speak at your event.

Pop your details into the form below with all the details and she’ll be in touch.