Tracey Worrall

Tracey Worrall: Neurodivergent & Integrative Counsellor

I am a compassionate, Integrative, and Person-Centred Counsellor specialising in neurodivergent-affirming practice. My approach is LGBTQ+ affirmative and deeply informed by my personal experiences with trauma and anxiety. I believe in the transformative power of therapy for recovery and use my lived experience to build a foundation of empathy and genuine understanding for every client I meet.

Specialist Support for Children and Young People

While I work with clients from age 6 with no upper age limit, much of my practice focuses on children, adolescents, and young adults. My background includes extensive experience in supporting early development, covering everything from bonding and attachment to parental mental health and safeguarding. I am particularly skilled in working with children who have experienced the care system, ensuring they feel safe and connected whether their placement is short-term or permanent.

Trauma-Informed Care and Toxic Stress

I have significant experience supporting children who have endured severe abuse, neglect, and multiple adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Many of these children live in a state of "toxic stress" or a constant "fight or flight" mode, which often manifests in complex behaviours. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we use creativity and playfulness to regulate emotions and build trust, allowing the child to explore their feelings at their own pace.

Adult Mental Health Across the Lifespan

My work with adults spans a wide range of challenges, including domestic abuse, sexual trauma, bereavement, and social anxiety. Additionally, my professional history as a public health nurse has given me a unique perspective on the needs of older adults. I consider it an honour to listen to the life stories of seniors, helping them navigate the emotional and mental health challenges that often arise in later life.

Professional Experience and Specialisms

I have extensive professional experience working with individuals across the entire lifespan. This includes early years support for preschool children and their families, focusing on social and emotional development, healthy attachment, and parental mental health, all underpinned by a robust knowledge of safeguarding.

Working with Children in Care

I have both professional and personal experience supporting children who have been removed from their birth families. Whether in short-term placements with the goal of reunification or within long-term permanent care, I focus on helping these children feel safe while maintaining vital family connections.

Complex Needs and Emotional Regulation

My work involves supporting children who have experienced severe neglect and abuse. These experiences often result in complex behaviours such as hypervigilance, self-harm, or lack of boundaries—behaviours that typically stem from fear and a state of constant "fight or flight." By providing a safe, empathetic, and creative environment, I help children build trust and explore their feelings at their own pace.

Support for Older Adults

In my previous role as a public health nurse, I specialised in tailored assessments for older adults that balanced physical health with emotional well-being. I believe there is a significant need for mental health support in later life, and I find it a true honour to listen to the stories and challenges these individuals have overcome.