My experience with special educational needs
My experience includes several years of supporting individuals with special educational needs through therapeutic work and mentorship as well as sharing my personal autism experience (I am autistic and dyspraxic, I am also a parent of children with Autism, ADHD and dyspraxia). Neurodivergent clients receive support from my therapy practice which emphasies a compassionate person-centred approach for individuals with autism and ADHD as well as those living with chronic illness. Through my educational work I mentored university students and directed programs to enhance SEN learners' confidence and resilience. I delivered a talk at the University of Bolton LEAP badge launch event which promoted disability inclusion. My work is shaped by both professional expertise and personal experience, and I’m committed to making sure neurodivergent people feel genuinely seen and supported, something I often lacked growing up. That absence is what inspired me to become the kind of adult I once needed.
A bit about me
Hi, I’m Ana. I’m a Spanish-born psychotherapist, SEN teacher, and mentor. I’m also a proud mum of two amazing boys who are autistic and have ADHD and dyspraxia. My journey into mental health and special educational needs has been both professional and deeply personal. Before retraining, I worked for many years in the NHS. But just before the first lockdown, I was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a turning point that led me to change course. I decided to become the kind of support I once needed, both for myself and others. That’s when I began training as a psychotherapist and SEND specialist. I now support neurodivergent individuals through online therapy and mentoring, in both English and Spanish. I offer a space where people can feel truly seen and supported, free from judgment, pressure, or “fixing.” At home, I share my space with three cats, two dogs, and a bearded dragon, all rescues who, like many of us, just needed safe and caring home.
My teaching philosophy
My approach is person-centred, strengths-based, and neurodiversity-affirming. In teaching, mentoring, or coaching I strive to connect with individuals exactly as they are without imposing judgment or forcing them to hide their true selves. My educational practice centres on developing student trust while promoting self-awareness which enables them to identify their own skills particularly for those experiencing neurodivergence or chronic illness. My professional training along with personal lived experience gives me insights into the academic and emotional challenges faced by neurodivergent learners. My goal is to establish a respectful space that makes people feel listened to while providing support to enable their potential. My work is also practical: My role is to create individualised strategies for students based on their unique needs and preferred communication methods while maintaining adaptability to make necessary changes throughout the process.
Schedule
Time zone:
Tutoring specialisation
I’m providing tutoring sessions for students with these educational needs:
Subjects Provided
Primary
Secondary
GCSE Foundational level
GCSE Higher level
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE Foundational level
GCSE Higher level
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE Foundational level
GCSE Higher level
A-Level
University
Coaching specialisation
Specialisation
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Reviews
9 reviews
Katie Woad
June 15, 2025
Ana has been very supportive and understanding. She is easy to talk to and so helpful.
Chloe Wells
June 17, 2025
Ana never fails to provide me with excellent support. I always leave our sessions feeling understood, validated and listened to. I cannot recommend her enough.
Amelia Jack
June 11, 2025
Ana is kind, friendly and understanding. She helps me work through difficulties and knows how to cheer me up when I'm having a bad day. Her support is invaluable.
Beth Smith
June 12, 2025
Ana gave me all the help I needed and more. She always goes above and beyond to make sure she is doing the best job she can and providing the quality of support needed. She is genuine, empathetic, and understanding, always there to offer guidance and assistance whenever. I honestly could not have got this far, and kept this sane without her. She is an amazing tutor and anybody would be lucky to have her.
Laura Rodriguez
June 12, 2025
Working with Ana has been nothing short of life-changing. As a university student with ADHD, I’ve faced countless challenges navigating academic life and managing my mental health. Ana’s support, guidance, and understanding have been absolutely pivotal in helping me not only continue my studies but actually believe I can complete my degree. Ana is more than a coach, she’s a mentor who truly gets it. She has helped me better understand how ADHD affects my life and has equipped me with practical tools and insights that have made a real difference. More than that, Ana encouraged me to embrace my neurodivergence, which has helped me connect with others in the neurodivergent community and feel genuinely empowered and less alone. What sets Ana apart is her incredible kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication. She creates a safe, supportive space where I always feel heard, respected, and valued. Her ability to guide me through difficult times, with both compassion and practical strategies, has been essential to my well-being and growth. Ana goes far beyond what anyone could expect from a coach or mentor. Her impact on my life has been profound, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. If you’re looking for someone who combines deep empathy with real, actionable support, I can’t recommend Ana enough. Thank you, Ana, for everything. You are truly remarkable.
Carrie
June 17, 2025
Ana is extremely supportive. She is professional and knowledgeable, and uses her neurodiversity knowledge to help encourage and support you. I look forward to our sessions every week.
Elizabeth
June 13, 2025
Ana’s friendly and approachable attitude is extremely supportive. My sessions with Ana help me to feel seen and heard, as she can relate to your feelings and provide tailored support and guidance.
M. Foster
June 13, 2025
Ana has been such a thoughtful, responsive, and caring mentor - I cannot imagine doing this year without her help! She has been understanding of my difficulties, made me feel heard, and offered practical advice which has improved my issues. I am very grateful to her!
Lucy
June 13, 2025
Ana is a wonderful, calm and patient mentor - I value our sessions and love the chance to speak to someone who ‘gets it’ as well as utilising Ana for body doubling whilst I study. Ana is a breath of fresh air for me and I always feel much calmer and like I have direction after our sessions.