DESPINA

PROFILE

Despina is a neuroaffirming therapist whose work is shaped by both professional training and lived experience of neurodivergence.

Receiving her ADHD and Autism diagnoses in adulthood led to redefining her identity and accepting the parts that previously were pushed away.

Professional through training and education on ADHD and other comorbidities have been a focal area of interest.

Alongside this, becoming a qualified couple and family therapist has meant that Despina has supported clients in relationships through an intersectional approach to relational difficulties.

Despina’s own neurodivergent identity and numerous years of supporting neurodivergent wellbeing creates a safe and supportive environment for clients. This safety is fostered through understanding, being attuned to the client and following their pace. 

Working with neurodivergent clients on a daily basis has fostered understanding of the everyday realities, strengths and frustrations that many with ADHD face.

Despina enjoys working with a wide range of clients including individuals, couples, families and other relational groups. She is especially enthusiastic about exploring how neurodivergence influences self-perception, communication, relationships and life goals.

Utilising a strengths-based, non-judgmental approach that affirms who you are rather than what you “should” be.

She has developed a special interest in ADHD support and continues ongoing training to bring the most informed tools to her clients. 

Despina integrates psychoeducation, coaching strategies, and relational therapeutic approaches drawn from her work as a couples and family therapist. This allows her to support clients in understanding their brains and behaviours, improving communication and building practical strategies that fit them.

Known for her sensitive and collaborative presence with her ability to help clients translate insight into action, Despina works alongside clients to build confidence, resilience and self-advocacy.

Her philosophy centres on empowering others to harness their strengths, navigate challenges with clarity and cultivate relationships and patterns that feel emotionally sustainable.

Qualifications

• Contemporary Relationship Studies (MA) 2:1 Hull University 2025
  
• Level 4 Counselling Skills (Pass) 2024
  
• Level 3 Counselling Skills (Pass) 2019
  
• Level 2 Counselling Skills (Pass) 2018

Training/CPD

• Supporting Neurodivergent Wellbeing
  
• ADHD Professional Intensive Training
  
• National Autistic Society SPELL training
  
• Neuroqueering Somatics
  
• Gottman Method
  
• Wellbeing Coaching
  
• PTSD UK
  
• Self-Harm
  
• Carolyn Spring Unshame: Healing Trauma Based Shame Through Psychotherapy
  
• Emotional Freedom Technique
  
• Childhood Sexual Abuse – The Body Keeps the Score
  
• Self Esteem and TA
  
• Integrative Somatic Psychotherapy Master Class