Denise Gleed

Denise is an integrative counsellor who works with children and young people from age 8, as well as adults. She has a particular passion for supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those who are autistic, ADHD or dyslexic, and brings both professional knowledge and lived experience to her work.

Denise understands that traditional ways of talking and working in therapy do not suit everyone. Her approach is warm, flexible and highly visual, adapting sessions around the individual and the way they communicate, process information and make sense of their experiences. She aims to create a space where clients feel genuinely heard and understood, without pressure to communicate, behave or engage in a particular way.

As a late-diagnosed dyslexic person and the parent of a neurodivergent child, Denise brings a personal understanding of how overwhelming it can sometimes feel to navigate environments that have not been designed with neurodivergent people in mind. Her work is strengths-based and affirming, helping clients to better understand themselves, explore difficulties without judgement and recognise the qualities and strengths that are already part of who they are.

Denise supports clients experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety, overwhelm, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, identity and the challenges that can come with navigating school, relationships, family life and the wider world as a neurodivergent person.

Her previous experience includes supporting neurodivergent children through nature-based therapeutic work with the Wilderness Foundation, alongside work within Mind and Rape Crisis supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, trauma and the impact of sexual violence.

Above all, Denise believes therapy should meet the person in front of her. Whether working with a child, teenager or adult, she offers a calm, friendly and compassionate relationship in which clients can explore what is happening for them at their own pace, in a way that works for them.