Nicky Bates The Neurodivergent Counsellor & Neurodiversity Specialist
From Senior Nurse Lecturer to Gestalt Counsellor/Psychotherapist
With more than 20 years experience as a nurse/ Lecturer at The University of Southampton, I discovered that my greatest asset and impact came from simply listening. A few minutes of compassion could do more than any prescription. Everyone deserves to feel valued, accepted, and heard.
In July 2019, I launched the TLC Counselling Hub, and it has continued to grow ever since. Over the years, I’ve accumulated thousands of client hours and have served as a counsellor for the local council, supporting their 300+ employees since 2019.
Based predominantly in North Devon, I offer a non‑judgemental approach rooted in Gestalt and Humanistic theory. Together, we explore what is happening for you in the here and now, using creative mediums like worksheets, mood cards, mini whiteboards and metaphors to help bring clarity to past and present experiences.
My therapy is a calm, whilst holds an interactive space that belongs entirely to you. It’s your time to talk about whatever is weighing on your mind. When you’re ready, I look forward to walking alongside you as you take that first step.
I Write regularly for the Counselling Directory and to date I have had 8 articles published https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/articles/supporting-clients-with-low-emotional-bandwith-a-gentle-art
My Main Areas of Speciality..
As someone who is neurodivergent, living with Dyscalculia, AUDHD and Synaesthesia, I understand how differently each person navigates life. This helps me connect with my clients in a way that is grounded in care, patience and real understanding.
So what I can help you with
- Neurodiversity ADHD, Autism, AUDHD
- ADHD Assessor can screen diagnose & assess people with ADHD (new service)
- Anxiety-Panic Attacks OCD https://tlccounsellinghub.co.uk/2019/10/18/anxiety-a-visual-perspective/
- Trauma-PTSD
- Abuse- physical-mental-verbal-sexual
- Attachment Disordershttps://tlccounsellinghub.co.uk/2019/07/01/its-all-about-the-love/
- Grief-loss-bereavement
- Depression
- Low Self Worth-Low Self Esteem-Self Harm
- Bi-Polar-MPD-DID
- Intrusive Thoughts
- Teenage Mental Health Champion
I completed a year and a half of voluntary work at Andover Mind, and the Olive Branch Winchester. I offer short and long-term therapy depending on your presenting issue.
I have regular fortnightly supervision with a like-minded experienced practitioner. This keeps my work ethical, safe and current. I hold enhanced DBS clearance, full indemnity insurance, whilst also being a member of the National Counselling Society (NCPS). I have won tender bids contracts with the local Council and Social Services. Whilst working closely with the Police and Military.
https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/nicky-bates
Registered Company Number 12278153
The TLC Counselling Hub predominately now offers counselling in North Devon but now with online sessions available we can work more extensively anywhere. Its called the World Wide Web for a reason!!
