Local Lifeline for West Yorkshire Neurodivergent Professionals

Leeds, UK

As recent reports reveal an increase of demand for neurodivergent assessments in the UK, Leeds-based training company NeuroCreators is providing a vital community-based coaching programme for those seeking immediate, practical help.

Working in partnership with the Thrive @ Work programme that was commissioned through the Leeds Health and Care Academy. Insights from the Thrive @ Work approach showed a clear pattern. Many people were referred for anxiety, depression or burnout, but these were often signs of unmet needs linked to neurodivergence, communication difficulties and a lack of workplace adjustments.

Michelle (Shell) Stanley, Head of Leeds One Workforce at Leeds Health and Care Academy, said: “As the programme developed, we saw the need for a more tailored offer for neurodivergent colleagues. Many people weren’t unwell because of work itself, but because their needs weren’t understood or supported in the workplace.”

That tailored offer became the C.R.E.A.T.E Group Coaching Programme, developed and led by NeuroCreators.

Thriving in Work with NeuroDivergence

One previous attendee, who received their official ADHD diagnosis just two weeks into the programme, described the experience as "vital" for survival in the workplace.

The 6-week C.R.E.A.T.E. Group Programme, built on the principles of solution-focused coaching and positive psychology, helps individuals understand their brains and learn practical tools for regulation, unmasking, and aligned action. Participants connect with others in a safe, non-judgmental group space while developing strategies they can integrate into work and life.

The 2025 Thrive @ Work cohort saw transformative results, moving professionals from overwhelm to clarity. One participant, shared: "I came into the programme feeling constantly overwhelmed even at the thought of work," the participant shared. "Whilst Steph will never be able to change the demands of my role, I feel more empowered to take small moments of calm and to advocate for my needs when things do feel heavy. I also feel more confident in advocating for things that will prevent feelings of overwhelm before I become too heightened".

Steph Nelson, a former teacher and neurodiversity coach who experienced AuDHD burnout while in a leadership position, created the six-week C.R.E.A.T.E. Group Programme to help people shift from the idea that neurodivergent people need "fixing" to the belief that they can work with their unique brains to thrive. The programme focuses on six core pillars: Clarity, Regulation, Expression, Aligned Action, Tweaks, and Empowerment delivered through online coaching sessions and supported by a comprehensive workbook and digital resource dashboard.

Steph Nelson, Neurodiversity Coach at Neuro Creators said,"When individuals gain clarity on their unique strengths and how their brains work, they stop trying to work in ways that go against them. The goal is to provide a way forward that fits helping people pursue the careers they love without succumbing to the burnout cycle".

Regular coaching sessions in a community setting helps build sustainable routines, accountability and mutual encouragement, which often makes coping strategies stick long after the programme ends.

One participant who joined to improve their understanding of neurodiversity stated, "I started the programme with the aim of learning more about ND and maximising adjustments in the workplace, but I ended up learning about my own brain and what helps me to work well, and stay well. This course is invaluable for anyone who has a human brain!".

Nelson added, “Burnout is already costing organisations through absenteeism and staff turnover. When we dismiss ADHD or make diagnosis harder to access, we're not solving a problem, we're forcing talented professionals to mask, burn out, and potentially leave careers they're passionate about.”

“Providing group coaching support for neurodivergent employees isn't just good for wellbeing - it's a strategic necessity that drives retention, sparks innovation, and reduces costly burnout.”

The next round of the C.R.E.A.T.E. Group Programme begins on 15th April 2026 with Thrive @ Work and will run online weekly for 6 weeks. Neurocreators is now welcoming conversations with organisations and individuals who would be interested in taking part in the next cohort. There is no requirement for a formal diagnosis to join.

For more information on enrolment or to enquire about consultancy for organisations, contact Stephanie Nelson at info@stephanie-nelson.co.uk.

About Neuro Creators Neuro Creators empowers neurodivergent minds to reach their full potential through coaching, consultancy, and community-led programmes. Founded by Steph Nelson, the organisation specialises in helping late-diagnosed adults build sustainable careers and lives by leaning into their neurological strengths rather than masking their challenges.

Media Contact: Stephanie Nelson Founder, Neuro Creators

Email: info@stephanie-nelson.co.uk

Website: WWW.NeuroCreators.co.uk