Peter – Associate Counsellor

Peter is a counsellor and educator with more than 35 years’ experience supporting children, young people and adults. He is passionate about helping people develop a better understanding of themselves, make sense of their experiences and find ways of navigating life that work for them.

Alongside ND OK, Peter currently provides counselling to Further and Higher Education students at a local college and mentors university students with neurodivergence and/or mental health difficulties.

Through this work, he has developed extensive knowledge of neurodiversity, mental health and the support available to university students, including the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).

Throughout his career, Peter has worked in schools, Further Education and Higher Education, supporting people who are neurodivergent, as well as those who believe they may be neurodivergent and are seeking greater understanding of themselves. He has particular experience helping clients explore how neurodivergence may affect relationships, education, work, wellbeing and everyday life. He also has knowledge of strategies and assistive technologies that can help neurodivergent people navigate environments that have not always been designed with their needs in mind.

Peter takes a neuro-affirming approach to counselling. He recognises that every person’s experience of neurodivergence is unique and that there is no single way of being neurodivergent. His aim is not to change who someone is, but to provide a safe and accepting space to explore experiences, understand themselves more fully and consider what might help.

Sessions are adapted to the individual, including consideration of sensory, communication and other needs. Peter believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is built on acceptance, trust, empathy and respect for each client’s autonomy.

Over his career, Peter has supported clients with a wide range of neurodivergent experiences, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD and ADD, as well as people experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma and PTSD, borderline personality difficulties and other mental health and wellbeing challenges. You do not need a diagnosis to talk to Peter about concerns relating to neurodivergence or mental health.

Alongside his Counselling qualifications, Peter holds a degree in Psychology and a Postgraduate Teaching Certificate, as well as specialist training in neurodiversity through nationally recognised and accredited training providers. He undertakes regular professional development to keep his knowledge and practice up to date.

Peter offers appointments both in person and online on a Saturday.