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The Mindfulness and Compassion Centre is introducing a new in person drop in for individuals who identify as neurodivergent or are exploring whether a neurodivergent profile is relevant to them.
Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that refers to brains that process experiences differently, and covers some neurotypes such as Autism, Dyspraxia and ADHD. As more is understood about these neurotypes, many adults are becoming curious about whether they fall within a neurodivergent profile. Mindfulness can be a valuable tool for self-awareness, regulation, and well-being, but some traditional approaches and spaces may not always feel accessible.
We want to create a friendly, neuro affirmative space that is inclusive to people who might have a different experience of mindfulness due to neurodivergence. There is an ever-expanding online resource for mindfulness and neurodivergence which we can draw on to inform our exploration and sessions together.
This space will be facilitated by Rachel Ardagh-Occupational Therapist and Mindfulness Teacher. She is currently exploring how she approaches mindfulness through these lenses, and how best to tailor mindfulness, and compassion practices for her own brain and nervous system-and for those who she works with in her clinical work and mindfulness groups.
In the group, we will strive to maintain a neuro-affirmative and non-judgemental attitude to support a compassionate journey of exploration and sharing.
Come join us!
I learnt to embrace parts of my ADHD and I learned how to be compassionate towards myself by being affirming with others. Thank so much for this course, it has meant a lot to me to meet others and learn self compassion and mindful practice to support me from wonderful teacher.
MSc Mindfulness Based Intervention, BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy, CORU Registered Occupational Therapist
Mindfulness Teacher with The Mindfulness and Compassion Centre:
Rachel began her training in teaching mindfulness in 2017 in Bangor University through their teacher training pathway. In 2020 she completed a Masters in Mindfulness Based Interventions in UCD, and was awarded with the Mindfulness Award for best performance in the Masters from the UCD School of Psychology. She has completed further training in other mindfulness based interventions including Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness. Rachel is a part of the Tutor Team for Trainee Mindfulness Teacher's in The Mindfulness and Compassion Centre. She is a registered member of the The Mindfulness Teacher's Association of Ireland.
In 2020 Rachel set up Insight Out Mindfulness and Therapy, a platform where she provides evidence-based mindfulness courses, retreats and one to one sessions for members of the public, hospitals, members of the LGBTQI+ Community and Direct Provision Centres. She has a special interest in the role of mindfulness and compassion in supporting adults with ADHD, and women experiencing infertility and pregnancy loss.
Mental Health Occupational Therapist with The Mindfulness and Compassion Therapy Centre:
Rachel is a Senior Mental Health Occupational Therapist who graduated from Trinity College in 2007. She now specialises in Occupational Therapy Mental health and neurodiversity. She has worked in various sectors for the past 16 years, including disability, paediatrics, equine assisted therapy, and has specialised in the area of mental health for the past 9 years. Rachel spent 7 years working as a Senior Clinician in the National Centre for Youth Mental Health before moving into OT private practice.
Rachel’s approach to OT is firmly grounded in cultivating more self-compassion and awareness in order to support people to engage meaningfully in what’s important to them in their lives. Rachel has training in various therapeutic approaches which are also woven into her practice, including ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), CFT (Compassion Focused Therapy) Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
She specialises in providing occupational therapy for adults and young people who are neurodivergent, or who are experiencing mental health difficulties. She also has a special interest in supporting people with ADHD. Rachel is CORU Registered and a Member of AOTI
