New course announced for working with neurodivergent children and young people

Blackburn based Training for Counsellors, experts in experiential learning, are highlighting the growing importance of understanding neurodiversity in children and young people.

As awareness of neurodiversity increases, so does the responsibility of counsellors, therapists, and professionals in the care sector. Recognising this crucial need, owner Samantha Crapnell is introducing the new course, Working with the Functionality of Neurodivergent Children and Young People.

Samantha said: “Neurodivergence affects how a person perceives, communicates, and interacts with the world, meaning a conventional model of counselling is unlikely to be effective.

"Instead, getting to know the client, understanding their unique needs, and working collaboratively helps to shape a therapeutic process that works for them.

This six-day intensive programme provides in-depth insights into neurodiverse functionality and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent young clients.

Through a strengths-based and experiential learning approach, this training helps counsellors, therapists, and other professionals move beyond theory and into practice.

Lead facilitator, Zara Winstanley, introduces to this course a whole systems approach, which considers not only the client but also their families, schools, and wider support networks, ensuring that counselling interventions are as effective and holistic as possible.

Zara, speaking from her own personal experience, has commented on delivering this course, she says “I want other people to be allowed to be themselves, in the same way that I have been able to."

This training presents an opportunity for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and develop a truly inclusive, neuro-affirming practice.

With increasing recognition of the importance of neurodiversity in therapeutic settings, it is important that people’s understanding is deepened and that therapeutic approaches are as supportive as possible.

Counsellors, therapists, educators, and other professionals working in the care sector, wishing to enhance their understanding of neurodiversity in children and young people, are encouraged to apply here.