Donna is a BACP-registered therapist with over 40 years’ experience in caring roles. Her experiences have shaped a commitment to supporting people who have felt misunderstood, marginalised or unable to be fully themselves. Growing up as a young carer, Donna often felt different and struggled to understand why she experienced the world differently from those around her. A later discovery of AuDHD helped her to make sense of many of these experiences.

These experiences inform Donna’s approach. She understands how being misunderstood can affect self-worth and confidence, and how continually trying to fit in can contribute to anxiety, exhaustion and burnout. She supports adults and young people to develop a greater self-understanding, self-acceptance and confidence, and to feel able to make choices that reflect who they are.

Having had the privilege of witnessing the transgender journey of someone close to her, Donna developed a strong interest in the experiences and challenges faced by trans people, as well as their families. This has led her to work with many in this field, and she is committed to supporting and advocating for the transgender and gender non-conforming community.

Prior to being in private practice, Donna’s professional experience includes working at a local hospice supporting clients through grief. Place2Be, where she supported teenagers experiencing gender identity difficulties, difficult home circumstances and neurodivergence. She also has experience in children’s care.

Outside of work, Donna is a lover of the outdoors and enjoys running on the trails. She also adds  “I have many hobbies that rotate every few years in true ADHD style!”