I’m Rachel, and I have spent the last 26 years working with adults with Autism. I started my career at the Kent Autistic Trust before moving to the NHS. I began working in the Community Learning Disability Service in 2001, which involved working with adults with a learning disability, many of who were neurodivergent.
Since 2022 I have been working as a clinical lead Occupational Therapist in the Kent Neurodevelopmental Post-Diagnostic Service providing psychoeducation and specialist support to people with Autism and ADHD.
Predominantly, I work with clients on a one-to-one basis, completing assessments and providing individuals with an opportunity to explore their diagnosis and how it impacts them socially, emotionally and physically.
Many of my clients have coexisting conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, insomnia, communication difficulties and dyspraxia. A significant part of my role is advocating for my clients and working alongside family members, employers and other professionals to ensure the best support and outcomes for my clients.
I keep up to date with current practices related to Neurodiversity by regularly attending network meetings and webinars.
Below is some of the training which I have carried out during my time as an Occupational Therapist, which informs the work I do:
- Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS)
- Sensory Processing and Autism
- Trauma Focused CBT for all ages Level 2 (APT)
- Learning Disability Forensics practitioner training
- National Autism Trainer Programme
- Outcome star
- Interoceptive awareness training
- NeuroNavigator training programme
My son has a diagnosis of ADHD, which has given me an alternative perspective of parenting a neurodivergent child. Sarah and I decided to set up DiverseOT to provide specialist support for neurodivergent individuals. We are very aware that many people with and without a diagnosis are unable to access the help they need.
I am passionate about the work I do and take great enjoyment when I see the progress individuals make in their lives following support from Occupational Therapy.