Rate Simone Ellington

I am a MA-qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist, ADHD coach and mentor for students with additional needs, with experience supporting individuals through a range of emotional, psychological and personal challenges. These include stress, anxiety, sleep difficulties, low mood, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and difficulties with concentration and memory.

I work from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective supporting individuals with ADHD, autism spectrum conditions (ASC/ASD), dyslexia and other learning and neurodevelopmental differences. I recognise that every individual experiences the world differently, and I aim to understand each person's unique needs, strengths and challenges rather than expecting them to fit into a particular mould.

I have a particular interest in supporting individuals who have spent much of their lives masking, adapting or trying to meet the expectations of others. Over time, this can lead to exhaustion, burnout, overwhelm and a loss of connection with who they really are. I also support individuals who are exploring or adjusting to a later diagnosis, helping them make sense of their experiences, reframe past difficulties and develop greater self-understanding without blame or judgment.

Alongside my work with neurodivergent individuals, I have a strong interest in trauma-informed counselling, particularly supporting those whose childhood experiences may continue to influence their emotional wellbeing, relationships, self-worth and everyday lives. Sometimes the ways we think, feel and behave today have developed as ways of protecting ourselves through earlier difficult experiences. I help clients gently explore these patterns with curiosity, compassion and understanding, rather than criticism or judgment.

Where appropriate, I also incorporate inner child work, helping individuals reconnect with younger parts of themselves that may hold unresolved emotions, unmet needs or painful experiences. This can create opportunities to develop greater self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional healing, while building a stronger sense of identity and connection with their authentic selves.

My approach is not about fixing you or changing who you are. It is about helping you understand yourself more deeply, recognise the experiences that have shaped you, reduce emotional distress and begin to let go of unhelpful beliefs and expectations. Together, we can explore practical strategies that work with your individual needs, strengths, circumstances and energy levels, rather than against them.

I believe therapy should be a collaborative and individual experience. I tailor each session to you, recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to personal growth, emotional wellbeing or neurodivergence.

Starting counselling can take courage, particularly if you have previously felt misunderstood, dismissed, judged or pressured to mask aspects of yourself. My aim is to provide a safe, welcoming and non-judgmental space where you can come as you are, feel heard and understood, and explore your experiences at your own pace.

I welcome adults, young people and students, recognising that everyone has their own individual experiences, challenges and support needs. Whether you are seeking support with emotional wellbeing, neurodivergence, past experiences, personal development, confidence or the challenges of education and everyday life, I aim to offer a supportive space where you feel listened to, valued and understood.

Alongside counselling, I also offer ADHD coaching and mentoring for students with additional needs, helping them develop greater self-understanding, confidence and practical strategies to navigate their learning and everyday lives.

You don't need to pretend, mask or have everything figured out. You deserve to feel understood, accepted and supported for who you are.