Therapy for the Neurodivergent Mind
Neurodiversity-Affirming, Trauma- Informed, Culturally Aware & with Lived Experience
Meet Ayna!
Pronounced "I-na".
The Safe and Sound Counsellor (Lived Experience Therapist)
My Training and Qualifications
- Post Graduate Diploma of Counselling
- Masters of Communication & Media
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Beyond GP - ADHD training for GPs (an exception was made to allow me into the course, not being a GP).
- Barbara Walker Center for Pain - PACT program
Continuous Professional Development and Areas of Experience and Interest:
- Research and interest in number of areas related to Autism, ADHD, (including Neurodivergent Burnout), Late Diagnosis Grief Process, Alexithymia, Emotional Dysregulation, Sensory Regulation, Executive Function.
- Chronic Health Conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Chronic Myofascial Pain, ME/CFS, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Joint Hypermobility, EDS, Vestibular Disorders.
- The common denominators amongst the above.
- Trauma responses, CPTSD vs PTSD, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Unmet Needs, Limiting Belief Systems, Self-Worth, Attachment, Schemas.
- Survivors of Narcissistic TRAITS and emotionally immature, self absorbed, toxic relationships.
- Gaslighting, People Pleasing, Masking, Shame, Guilt.
- Grief and Loss in all its forms, and the links between all of them, because as you may know, we are often grieving multiple losses.
- Understanding our emotions and feelings, their purpose, expressing and regulating them. Getting in touch with our needs, and communicating them in a constructive way; setting boundaries and, most importantly, upholding them.
- Interpersonal Relationships and Intergenerational patterns and trauma.
- Stripping away the belief systems that no longer serve you; realising that you were not born with these beliefs, but they were imposed on you by others which you then internalised.
- Making meaning out of adverse if experiences, and healing; Restructuring our sense of self to one that is more authentic and strength based, celebrating our differences and forgiving ourselves for our challenges.
- Taking you one step closer to an Authentic and Self Actualised version of yourself, without feeling the need to conform to Society's Conditions of Worth.
Registration
Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA):
Mrs Ayna Hennessy, PACFA Reg. Clinica 28153
Memberships:
Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)
Neurodivergent Insights
Good Therapy (USA)
PESI
Pathfinder (ADHD Coaching)
Pathways to Self: Counselling for ADHD, Autism, Invisible Illnesses, and the Discovery of Purpose, Meaning, and Diverse Cultural Identities
My practice, with a special focus on ADHD, Autism, and co-occurring mental and physical health challenges, is deeply aware of the complexities of neurodivergence and a broad spectrum of cultural experiences.
As a global citizen with extensive understanding of diverse cultural identities and the issues that may emerge, I bring a distinctive approach to counselling that incorporates elements of both Western and Asian cultures, amongst others.
In my approach, I acknowledge and respect the connections between neurodivergence and various identity aspects, such as gender fluidity and polyamorous relationships. I provide a non-judgmental environment where all dimensions of identity and lifestyle are recognised and supported, recognising that each person's path is unique.
Addressing Toxic Relationships:
My work also involves helping individuals identify and navigate toxic relationships that may be impacting well-being. These relationships are often marked by patterns of extremely subtle manipulative behaviour, emotional volatility, and subtle sabotage, which can profoundly affect one's mental health and daily functioning.
By recognising these patterns across previous generations, you can begin to understand how you may have been predisposed to it through no fault of your own, and reduce self blame and starting show self compassion towards yourself. I can help you develop strategies to establish healthier boundaries in your relationships and how to navigate any resistance you will most likely encounter.
My clients range from 9 to 60+ years old, coming from all walks of life, with diverse backgrounds and life stories, each with their own narrative and experiences. I am intrigued by each of their stories and sometimes in awe at how different at how different yet similar we all can be.
Dedicated to assisting individuals at different stages of the diagnostic process, my practice offers significant validation and self-discovery.
Some achieve satisfaction through counselling alone, without the need for an official diagnosis, while others seek guidance to navigate the diagnostic path and strategies to cope with life challenges. Many engage in therapy to work through post-diagnostic grief, address feelings of marginalisation and victimisation, or adjust to changes in relationships.
I provide strategies that are customised to your individual's learning style and needs, helping manage life's hurdles and executive function difficulties.
I meet you where you are at and go at your pace, you have autonomy in this process and I trust you know yourself the best. Sometimes I have to just nudge you towards trusting yourself in the same way.
I am committed to delivering inclusive and personalised support, finely attuned to the nuances of cultural identity, neurodivergence, and relationships. My dedication is steadfast to those of you who may have felt marginalised, misunderstood, or victimised, ensuring your experiences are acknowledged, validated and you walk out feeling empowered, a tiger who has earnt its stripes.
My Vision: Music Workshops
Creativity and music can play a huge role in well-being as does social interaction, and a feeling of belonging and community.
Using my 20+ years experience as a DJ (performing and teaching), I plan to operate group music appreciation workshops, help clients with the expressive arts in the form of DJing lessons, and other music and wellbeing related initiatives
Our Partners
