Frankie's Story

Shame, self-criticism and self-blame.

Before the coaching programme, Frankie experienced longstanding shame, self-criticism and self-blame due to years of being misunderstood. Through coaching, Frankie developed a deeper understanding of how his neurodivergent brain works, helping him reframe his experiences with greater self-awareness and compassion.

Building Confidence Through Self-Understanding.

Frankie reflected: "My confidence has improved dramatically since engaging with the coaching course. Learning about a neurodivergent brain equipped me with key learning to begin to remove some of the shame I internalised from years of being chronically misunderstood."

How Increased Confidence Improved Self Compassion. 

This increased understanding helped Frankie become more self compassionate and less focused on perceived failures. Rather than continually blaming himself, Frankie developed a more informed understanding of his needs, strengths and challenges.
Frankie explained: "Learning how to work with my brain has been a vital component in creating a positive shift to my overall quality of life."

Recognising the Importance of Self-Advocacy

Frankie realised that advocating for his needs was essential to working successfully as a neurodivergent person. Coaching and peer discussions helped him recognise his right to request support, set boundaries and access reasonable adjustments. This increased awareness gave him the confidence to advocate for himself at work, seek union support and implement practical strategies, including requesting an updated job description and using self-regulation techniques to better manage stress.

The Power of Shared Lived Experience

Frankie reflected that finding a community of people with shared lived experience was one of the programme's most valuable outcomes. Feeling understood without the need to mask strengthened his self-acceptance and confidence, while helping him realise the importance of setting boundaries, communicating his needs and advocating for support both at work and in everyday life.