My Story
I grew up in rural Wales as part of a large family and was raised as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Leaving that faith became a significant part of my own story and gave me first-hand experience of rebuilding identity after major life change.
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As a child, I struggled with hyperactivity, poor concentration and a persistent sense of being different. It wasn't until my early 30s that I was diagnosed with ADHD. A few years later, both of my children were also diagnosed as autistic, prompting me to reflect more deeply on my own neurodivergence and how it had shaped my experiences.
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Being both neurodivergent and an ex-Jehovah's Witness taught me an important lesson: pretending to be somebody you're not is exhausting. Whether those expectations come from a religion, society, family or even ourselves, constantly trying to fit into a version of who we think we should be can take a real toll on our self-esteem, identity and wellbeing.
Finding my own way meant unlearning years of rigid conditioning. It also meant understanding my neurodivergence as part of who I am, rather than something to hide. Those experiences continue to shape both who I am as a person and the way I work as a counsellor.
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When working with neurodivergent clients, I recognise that there is no single "right" way to communicate. You're welcome to stim, use regulating activities, avoid eye contact, or simply be yourself. I aim to create a space where you don't have to spend energy masking who you are.
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My work with former Jehovah's Witnesses isn't about persuading anyone to deconstruct their beliefs. Instead, I support clients in processing difficult experiences, rebuilding a sense of identity, making meaning of what they've been through, and developing healthy, boundaried relationships.
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Alongside my personal experiences, my training and professional work have given me experience supporting clients with:
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Neurodivergence
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Abuse
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Cult dynamics
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Pregnancy loss
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Grief
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Complex trauma (CPTSD)
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Poverty
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Infertility
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Disability
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Self-esteem
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Identity
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LGBTQ+ issues
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If you think we might be a good fit, I offer a free initial consultation. It's an opportunity for us to meet, talk about what you're looking for, and decide together whether I'm the right counsellor for you.
Rebecca Rose