Rate Sharen Dobson

I am an accredited counsellor with the NCPS as well as a salaried employee with Newcastle GP Services, and trainee clinical supervisor. Within my salaried role, I support individuals with a wide range of mental health issues in within a short term time frame of 6-8 sessions. Meaning that I am able to work very quickly in the here and now, as well as longer term for more complex issues.

In both my salaried role and my private work, my specialist support area is Neurodiversity.

As someone with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyscalculia myself, I bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to our therapy sessions. This combination creates a unique space where your experiences are genuinely understood without needing extensive explanations. Many clients tell me they feel immediately comfortable knowing I naturally understand certain challenges from the inside—whether it's sensory overwhelm, social communication differences, or executive functioning struggles.

My approach works because it blends evidence-based techniques with authentic personal insight. I've completed professional training in Poly-vagal theory, some CBT exercises, communication adaptation methods and motivational interviewing while also developing strategies through my own neurodivergent journey. This means I can offer practical tools that are specifically adapted to work with neurodivergent thinking styles rather than against them. Our sessions focus on building on your natural strengths while developing helpful strategies for challenges—whether you're dealing with workplace difficulties, relationship navigation, or simply seeking to understand yourself better.

What makes our work together particularly effective is how it's completely tailored to you as an individual. I create a judgement-free environment where your neurodivergence is respected as a natural variation, not something to fix. With additional background in supporting people through grief, trauma and major life transitions, I can help with the complex emotions that often accompany neurodivergent experiences. My goal isn't to change who you are but to help you thrive as yourself—developing self-advocacy skills, building confidence, and creating a life that accommodates your needs rather than constantly adapting to fit others' expectations. Whether you're newly diagnosed, long-time identified, or simply exploring your neurodivergent traits, I provide the informed, compassionate support you deserve