Neurodiversity | Mind Calm Therapies

Women with Attention Deficit Disorder

Below is a summary of Women with Attention Deficit Disorder by Sari Solden, originally published in 1995. It captures some of the earliest insights into how Attention Deficit Disorder presents specifically in women—at a time when the condition was still largely misunderstood and often overlooked. The book aims to highlight common patterns, emotional experiences, and practical strategies to help women better understand and manage their ADD—now more commonly referred to as ADHD. I first read this book in the early 2000s, and many of the small, practical pointers Solden offers were genuinely helpful. They provided clarity, reassurance, and a sense of recognition that was otherwise difficult to find at the time. This summary is my way of sharing those insights in a concise and accessible format. Please note: the ideas and reflections are my own, drawn from my reading and experience, with AI support used purely to enhance clarity and

ADHD focus & follow through

Some ideas to assist with individuals with diagnosed or suspected ADHD: ADHD FOCUS & FOLLOW-THROUGH WORKSHEET Date: _____________________ Weekly Snapshot (1 = struggling | 5 = going well) Work/Study ___ Relationships ___ Daily Tasks ___ Self-Care ___ Biggest current pressure: _______________________________________________ My Pattern Between interests I feel: ☐ Low ☐ Restless ☐ Irritable ☐ Unmotivated ☐ Overwhelmed ☐ Other ____ What happens next? ______________________________________________________ Hyperfocus helps me: ____________________________________________________ Hyperfocus costs me: _____________________________________________________ This Week’s 3 Priorities (Only Three) ____________________ 2. ____________________ 3. ____________________ Next small step (5–15 mins): ____________________ 2. ____________________ 3. ____________________ When (day/time): ________________________________________________________ If I’m Stuck Set 15-minute timer • Do only next step • Choose to stop or continue Task I’ll trial this on: _________________________________________________ One External System (Not Multiple) ☐ Planner ☐ Whiteboard ☐ Calendar App ☐ Shared List ☐ reMarkable ☐ Other ____ Where it lives: ____________________ Daily check-in time: _______________ Relationships / Friendships (where applicable) One act

Access to Work – Government Funding for ASD / ND clients

Access to Work – Applying for Funding [information sharing] In the UK, someone with a formal ADHD diagnosis can apply for Access to Work funding through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is designed to help cover practical workplace support that goes beyond what an employer is legally required to provide. Check Eligibility You can apply if you: Have a diagnosed disability or long-term health condition (ADHD qualifies). Are aged 16 or over. Are in paid employment (employed, self-employed, apprenticeship, work trial, or about to start a job). Live and work in England, Scotland or Wales. You do not need to receive PIP or any other benefit to apply. Apply The individual applies directly (not the employer). You will need: National Insurance number Employer details (or self-employed details) Job title and working hours Description of how ADHD affects work performance Evidence of diagnosis may be requested later. Applications

Book Summary – The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy

📘 Summary of The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy by Steph Jones The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy by Steph Jones is a vital resource for autistic individuals navigating the therapeutic landscape. Drawing from her personal experiences as a late-diagnosed autistic woman and her professional background as a therapist, Jones offers a candid exploration of the challenges faced in therapy and provides practical guidance for both clients and practitioners. 🧠 Understanding the Neurodivergent Experience Jones begins by addressing common myths and misconceptions about autism, emphasizing the importance of recognising the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals in therapeutic settings. She highlights how traditional therapeutic approaches often fail to accommodate the sensory, emotional, and communicative differences of autistic clients. 🔍 Identifying Red Flags in Therapy A significant portion of the book is dedicated to helping readers identify “red flags” that may indicate a therapist is not a good fit. These include a

Neurodiversity in Therapy: Embracing Diverse Minds

The landscape of mental health care is evolving, recognising that neurodivergent individuals—those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological variations—have unique needs and strengths. Traditional therapeutic approaches often pathologise these differences, but a growing movement advocates for neurodiversity-affirming practices that honour and support diverse cognitive profiles. Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is a paradigm shift that moves away from deficit-based models and instead views neurodivergent traits as natural variations of human diversity. This approach emphasises collaboration, respect, and individualised support, aiming to empower clients rather than attempting to “normalise” them. Key Books Shaping Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy 1. Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: What Every Mental Health Provider Needs to Know by Amy Marschall This comprehensive guide offers practical strategies, evidence-based techniques, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity. It equips therapists with tools to build stronger relationships, improve their understanding, and make a positive difference in the lives of neurodivergent clients. 2. Neurodiversity-Affirming Psychotherapy: Clinical Pathways to Autistic