Autistically Brilliant by Kirsti Willis

About me: I'm Kirsti, a HCPC and BAAT registered, late diagnosed autistic Art Psychotherapist, who offers neurodivergent people of different ages (over 5) neuro and LGBTQIA+ affirmative, warm, non-judgemental, as well as trauma informed counselling and art psychotherapy. I also offer relationship counselling (where one or more in the relationship are neurodivergent) and dyadic or family therapy. Furthermore, I offer advice and support with the parenting of neurodivergent children/young people, training and consultancy. You (or your child/young person) do not need to be "officially" diagnosed, as I view self identification and/or diagnosis as entirely valid. I deliver my sessions mostly on Zoom, but can also use phone, text or email (or a mix of these, as appropriate) - whichever is the preferred way to communicate. My approach is empowering, emphasising the individual strengths of each client, as well as the more general strengths inherent in neurodivergence. Sessions with me tend to be quite present orientated, concentrating on desired change. This, of course, is not to say that we won't be exploring the past or the roots of today's issues, as required and/or desired. In many cases this is essential for progress. Together we identify your (or your child's/young person's) interests and strengths, utilising these in working towards therapy goals in a gradual way, which means that change is easier and more achievable. My training has been in person centered and psychodynamic counselling, but I would describe my approach as integrative and tailored to each client's needs. In addition to counselling, I offer art psychotherapy, which can be particularly effective in treating deeper issues and trauma, which many neurodivergent people, unfortunately, suffer from. You don't need to be an artist or "good at art" to participate, and the use of artistic expression is always optional. However, it can help open doors to the unconscious part of the mind. This tends to be the seat of significant, but complicated issues, which can be difficult to verbalise. Thus this type of therapy can be especially helpful for autistic people (with alexithymia - a difficulty in recognising and naming emotions) and children/young people. We can also use art making during relationship, dyadic and family work. This often helps people to understand each other better, as art can serve to diffuse tensions and make communication easier. I have two decades of experience in supporting neurodivergent people, as well as people with many different mental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, bipolar, PD) and physical (e.g. EDS, MS, ME/CFS, long covid) conditions. My most recent roles have been as a senior clinician at CAMHS and a Senior Community Advisor at Scottish Autism. Because I have worked with neurodivergent people in many different roles (and been on many related courses), I understand what my clients' general mental health related issues might be at different stages of life (often problems with relationships, issues related to sensory profile, school/work issues and trauma, such as that caused by bullying, abuse or neglect). However, I never generalise from the experience of any one person (be it me or someone else), as each neurodivergent person is, of course, unique, with their own personality, interests, strengths and challenges, as well as environment. I am a practical, down to earth person and dedicate myself to getting to know my clients as well as I can, in order to support them in the best way. During sessions, I tend to think of concrete ways that my client's wellbeing can be supported in the here and now. This means that I might make suggestions or give tips on things that might be helpful. However, I strongly believe in the therapist-client relationship being one of equals, so I'm more than happy to be told if something would not work for you (or your child/young person). I might then, if appropriate, suggest something else, instead. The quality of the relationship between therapist and client has been found to be a very important factor in the success of therapy, which is why I aim to cultivate a warm, open and honest atmosphere in my practice. I believe this helps me make genuine connections, as well aiding in establishing trust earlier on in the process. While a regular session once a week, at a certain time is seen to be the "gold standard" for both counselling and art psychotherapy, I recognise that each person and their situation is different. This means that we can be quite flexible with the length, frequency and format of the sessions. So, please do get in touch even if, for example, your schedule is changeable, you often travel for work, or you would like more or less frequent sessions, at different times. Sessions with me are always a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. Whatever your (or your child's/young person's) issues and needs, message me and we can set up a short introductory meeting to see whether we would like to work together. Training, qualifications & experience: Training: BSc in Biological Sciences, Psychology (Hons) COSCA PG Certificate in Counselling MSc in Counselling Studies MSc in Art Psychotherapy Various courses on neurodivergence, as well as issues related to neurodivergence in general (trauma, LGBTQIA+, etc.). BBA in International Business Recent work experience: Senior clinician at CAMHS Senior Community Advisor at Scottish Autism Mental Health Mentor for university students through Theorise Neurodiversity Consultant at Welcome Brain