Dr Lucy Chantrey

Supporting parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young people has become the focus of my work over many years as a psychotherapist. Whilst much of the focus is rightly on supporting neurodivergent children, I became increasingly aware that parents are often left carrying an enormous emotional burden with very little support of their own.

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I am a BACP Accredited, trauma informed EMDR and Integrative Psychotherapist, and an AC Accredited Foundation Coach, with over 16 years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy.

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Throughout my career I have seen first hand the emotional impact that raising a neurodivergent child can have on parents and carers, particularly when they are navigating assessment and diagnosis, advocating for their child within education and healthcare, managing school refusal or emotionally based school avoidance, or trying to understand and support a child with a PDA profile.

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The parents I work with have often spent years putting their child's needs first. By the time they reach therapy, many are emotionally exhausted and struggling with the effects of chronic stress, trauma or burnout. Parents also often tell me they feel guilty about focusing on themselves. In reality, looking after your own wellbeing is an important part of being able to support your child and your family.

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I offer a warm, non judgemental therapeutic space where parents can talk openly about their experiences without feeling judged or needing to explain themselves. Whether you are seeking support before, during or after your child's diagnosis, I work alongside you to understand your experiences and help you find a way forward. Every family's experience is different, and my approach is always tailored to your individual needs.

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I have a particular interest in parent trauma and burnout and extensive experience supporting parents of children with a PDA profile. I understand how difficult it can be when conventional parenting advice does not fit your child, and I work with parents to develop a deeper understanding of their child's needs whilst also recognising the impact this has on them as parents.

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I have worked therapeutically within the NHS, state, voluntary and private sectors with neurodivergent children, young people and their families. This breadth of experience has given me a strong understanding of the challenges families face, both within services and in everyday life.

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Alongside my clinical work, I also provide bespoke training and consultancy to individuals, charities, businesses and educational settings.

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My academic interests have always reflected my clinical work. Both my Master's and Doctoral research explored the lived experiences of parents of autistic girls, deepening my understanding of the unique experiences of these families and reinforcing my commitment to ensuring parents feel heard, understood and supported.