Karen Charman

Neurodivergent counsellor supporting ND adults in an affirming, accepting space

Are you coming to terms with a recent or later-in-life diagnosis of autism or ADHD? It can be overwhelming to re-evaluate your childhood and life so far, particularly relationships with parents and family. Perhaps you've always struggled at work and are now wondering what support or accommodations to ask for, alongside imposter syndrome. Maybe you want to explore who you are after years of masking, while managing health challenges or the menopause.

Availability not confirmed

Profile

karencharman.counselling.online

Phone

07838 406497

Email

karen@elephascounselling.co.uk

Website

www.elephascounselling.co.uk

About me and my practice

If you are neurodivergent, whether diagnosed or self realising, you probably want to speak to a counsellor who understands what it could mean for you.

Of course it's possible to have a successful and fulfilling life with autism or ADHD but it often comes with some sort of sacrifice which those around you may not fully see or understand as you've hidden (or masked it) so effectively!

There is often anger or frustration that your struggles were not identified earlier in life and you may be feeling sadness or grief for your younger self that you want to work through. Relationships with family and friends are also areas that sometimes need to be explored and expectations adjusted.

And then there's how to move forward - you might be realising that your full on lifestyle is just not manageable anymore now that you have a better understanding of yourself. Perhaps you've experienced burn out multiple times and want to avoid this in future.

All of these subjects and more I'm very familiar with and I can offer a space filled with empathy and understanding, plus ideas on how to move forward, advocate for yourself and find a balance that works for you.

Experience

I started my counselling career advertising an understanding of autism as a by-line, which resulted in my practice immediately filling up with autistic clients, desperate to speak to someone who gets it. Over the years I've learnt so much from the wonderful clients I've met but also educating myself through up to date media and books and more recently learning about the huge overlap of autism and ADHD as many of my clients have both.

I work with students, professionals, older adults and young adults still finding their way. Many are from the LGBTQ+ community who are very welcome and accepted here.

I qualified as a Humanistic Counsellor at The University of Chichester in 2020 and soon after set up Elephas Counselling. I volunteered as a counsellor at The Bereavement Counselling Charity, Hampshire for 18 months and at the University of Portsmouth Student Wellbeing Service as a counsellor for 2 years. Consequently, I gained experience working with young adults presenting with a range of issues and with bereaved adults at any age.

My previous professional background is in customer service, sales, account management, human resources and marketing. I have had a lifelong interest in counselling and have also recently graduated with a degree in psychology.

I am currently training as a coach on an ICF accredited course.

I am a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) and abide by their Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. I have counsellor insurance with Holistic Insurance.

Qualifications

Diploma Inclusive Coaching (in progress)
BSc (Hons) Psychology, 2023
Diploma of Higher Education - Humanistic Counselling, 2020
CPCAB Level 2 Certificate Counselling Skills, 2018
First Steps in Counselling Skills, 2001

Professional Membership

BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy)

Professional Register

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

Verified by Counsellingo on Thursday, 12 February 2026

Initial Consultation

I offer a free 15-20 minute telephone or Teams consultation so we can get to know each other a little and decide whether or not to go ahead and start working together.

Subsequent sessions can be online or if you're near me on the South Coast of Hampshire, I'd love to welcome you for face to face counselling on sunny Hayling Island!

Taking the first step of asking for help from a counsellor can be daunting, but please be assured that I will make that easier for you by answering any questions you may have over email, text, or the telephone.

Fees

£60 per 1 hour session
Low cost coaching offer currently available upon enquiry

When I Work

Monday - Thursday daytimes.

Therapeutic Approach

Person Centred

Video Platforms

Teams

Pronouns

She/her

Area

Hampshire

#adhd #autism #neurodivergence #neurodivergent #coaching