RECOGNISING THE UNSEEN

Supporting Individuals in Discovering Undiagnosed ADHD

In my work, I often meet individuals who come seeking clarity—on their challenges, their patterns, and often, on a deep sense that something isn’t quite “fitting” in the way the world expects it to. For many, this journey leads us to uncover something that’s been quietly shaping their lives for years: undiagnosed ADHD.

Understanding the Quiet Reality of Undiagnosed ADHD

ADHD, particularly when not identified in childhood, often flies under the radar. It doesn’t always look like hyperactivity or loud disruption—especially in adults, and especially in women or individuals assigned female at birth, where symptoms may manifest more internally: chronic disorganisation, emotional overwhelm, forgetfulness, or a lifelong sense of “underachieving.”

Many of the people I work with describe a sense of relief when ADHD comes into focus—not as a label, but as an explanation. It reframes their narrative. What was once seen as a personal failing can begin to make sense through the lens of neurodivergence. “So that’s why I’ve struggled with…” becomes a turning point, not just in self-understanding, but in self-compassion.

The Journey of Discovery

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Some clients come to me after years of self-doubt, burnout, or masking. Others may suspect ADHD but need support in unpacking what that means for them. My role is to walk alongside them—to provide tools, insight, and a space that validates their experience while exploring whether ADHD might be a part of the picture.

Importantly, I’m not here to diagnose. But I am here to guide people toward greater understanding—sometimes that means encouraging further assessment with qualified clinicians, other times it’s about supporting self-identified neurodivergence with practical strategies and emotional support.

Normalising the Neurodivergent Experience

A big part of this work is about normalising. ADHD isn’t a flaw. It’s a different way of processing, experiencing, and interacting with the world. With that comes incredible strengths: creativity, intuition, hyperfocus, empathy, and innovation—qualities that are often overlooked in traditional settings.

But it's also important to acknowledge the very real challenges: executive dysfunction, sensory sensitivity, emotional regulation difficulties, or time blindness. Recognising ADHD doesn’t mean minimising struggle—it means understanding it through a lens that allows for growth, rather than shame.

Ongoing Commitment to Informed Practice

As part of my commitment to this work, I’m currently engaged in specialist training to bring formal certification in ADHD and Autism-informed care into my practice. This ongoing study is deepening my ability to support neurodivergent individuals with evidence-based approaches that honour their lived experiences.

My goal is to ensure that everyone I work with feels seen—not pathologised, but understood. This means staying informed, reflective, and open to the evolving knowledge in this space, especially as we continue to challenge old narratives about what ADHD “looks like.”

You Are Not Alone

If any of this resonates with you—or someone you care about—know that you’re not alone. Whether you’re just beginning to ask questions or already walking the path of self-discovery, there is support available. And more importantly, there is nothing wrong with you. Your brain works differently. And that difference deserves understanding, not judgment.

Let’s keep the conversation going.