I am a GP with a specialist interest in neurodiversity, and I wanted to explain a little about what this means both clinically and for individuals and families, navigating this often complex area.
The neurodiversity landscape has changed dramatically over recent years, and we continue to learn more about how different minds work, develop and respond to the world around them.
What does it mean to be neurodivergent?
The sphere of neurodiversity is huge. From more familiar terms such as ADHD and autism to dyslexia and other profiles, we are increasingly recognising that there are ranges of traits, overlaps and hints of syndromes rather than neat categories.
These traits can show up very differently in different people. What works well for one patient may not work for another — even within the same family. In some situations, a diagnosis or label is actively sought and can be crucial. It may unlock the right support or resources, for example at school, university or in the workplace. In other cases, it is not the label that matters most, but the understanding and the desire to manage a difficulty a little better, however that solution may arise.
Why is understanding more important than labels?
‘Who we are at our very best’ is often the key to understanding and thriving with neurodiversity.
It takes a specialist approach to look at the different components and moving parts of someone’s life. Whether there is a clear diagnosis, or a combination of strong traits that are proving troublesome, these situations benefit from careful, expert exploration.
Over time, I have found that the label itself is often less important than shared understanding of the situation — particularly for the patient and those around them. When everyone understands why certain situations are challenging, it becomes much easier to find ways forward.
How neurodiversity can affect everyday life
Understanding neurodiversity can be likened to understanding the tides. Sometimes energy is high; sometimes it is low. Different situations require different energies. Neither is wrong, and neither is bad — but recognising what suits an individual best can make a significant difference.
With better understanding, families can identify both strengths and weaknesses within the unit and the individual. We don’t have to be fantastic at everything, but we are far more likely to perform at our best when we understand ourselves and play to our strengths.
What support options are available?
Support is always individual and tailored to the person but may include gaining greater clarity around strengths and challenges, guidance on liaising with schools, universities or workplaces, referrals for ADHD coaching or specialist assessments, and support for families navigating these journeys together. When managed without understanding, neurodivergent traits or labels can bring fear, discrimination or a sense of limitation. With education, insight and appropriate support, they can instead become a foundation for confidence, growth and thriving.
When should you consider seeking advice?
If you or someone in your family is beginning this journey — whether questioning a possible diagnosis, responding to concerns raised by a school or workplace, or simply trying to understand ongoing difficulties — support can be helpful at any stage.
Understanding does not have to come all at once, and it is never too early or too late to explore what might help.
If you would like to discuss neurodiversity, concerns about yourself or a family member, or whether further support or assessment may be helpful, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team. You can book an appointment here or call us on 0207 245 9333.
About the author
MA MBChB MRCGP
“I believe a patient’s needs should sit at the heart of every consultation, and I bring a warm, family-centred approach to my work as a GP. Neurodiversity care works best when patients and families feel informed, supported and confident in how they manage challenges together.”
I am a GP with an extended role (GPwER) in neurodiversity, an evolving area of medicine that sits naturally alongside paediatrics and family medicine. In my neurodiversity and ADHD role, I spend time with patients – children or adults to explore what a diagnosis means in practical terms — not just for the individual, but for the wider family. This includes supporting mental health, discussing routines, nutrition, sleep and navigating school and academic plans, and helping patients and families develop strategies to manage day-to-day challenges with confidence.
I work closely with both adult and child ADHD coaches and with nutritionists who specialise in neurodiversity. This collaborative approach allows care to be tailored, realistic and supportive over the longer term.
Alongside my work at Sloane Street Surgery’s Marlborough branch, I am a GP Partner in an NHS practice in Andover. I maintain my paediatric expertise by running a monthly children’s clinic and a multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT) with a consultant paediatrician from Winchester Hospital, supporting the management of more complex cases.
As a family doctor, I value continuity of care and the relationships that develop over time, particularly the privilege of caring for different generations within the same family.
