Many neurodivergent people spend years trying to fit themselves into systems, routines and expectations that simply do not work for them. But what if support looked different? What if support started with understanding how someone thinks, processes information and experiences the world?
We spoke with Chelle, one of our Neuro-Trained PAs, about what she has learned through her training and experience, and why understanding executive function can completely change the way support is provided.
“I realised support isn’t about doing everything for someone”
Before becoming neuro-trained, Chelle admits she initially thought supporting neurodivergent people could feel overwhelming because of the level of support someone might need.
“Before becoming neuro-trained, I believed the role could feel overwhelming because of the level of support a neurodivergent person might need. Since gaining more knowledge and experience, my perspective has completely changed.”
“I now understand that the right support is not about doing everything for someone, but about understanding how they work best and helping them build strategies that genuinely support their daily life.”
For Chelle, training shifted her thinking from seeing support as simply helping with tasks, towards understanding the individual behind them.
Alongside completing the Connections In Mind Neuro-Inclusive Support Course, Chelle also completed our Level 1 Executive Function qualification and an Advanced Diploma in ADHD.
“These have given me a deeper understanding of executive functioning, neurodiversity and practical ways to provide meaningful, personalised support.”
Beyond practical support
Many people think a PA role is mainly practical help, managing appointments, organising paperwork or helping with everyday tasks.
For a Neuro-Trained PA, Chelle explains, it goes much deeper than that.
“A neuro-trained PA supports far more than day-to-day tasks.”
“The role involves understanding executive functioning and recognising how differently neurodivergent brains process information, routines and responsibilities.”
Rather than expecting someone to adapt to a system that does not work for them, support becomes personalised.
“I support clients in ways that work for them individually, helping them create systems, routines and strategies through their own lens and lived experience.”
Small changes can make a huge difference
Since using a more neuro-inclusive approach, Chelle has noticed meaningful changes in the people she supports.
“The people I support often feel more understood and less pressured to fit into methods that do not work for them.”
She has seen clients develop stronger routines and structures that reduce stress and support wellbeing, but perhaps more importantly, she has seen confidence grow.
“I have also seen a significant increase in confidence and self-awareness, as clients begin to understand what they need to thrive and how to advocate for themselves more effectively.”
What being a Neuro-Trained PA teaches you
The role has also changed Chelle’s own perspective.
“This role has reinforced how unique every individual is and how important it is to create a safe, understanding and non-judgemental environment.”
“What may seem small to one person, such as a cluttered space, multiple tasks at once or sensory factors like room temperature, can have a huge impact on someone else’s wellbeing and ability to function.”
For Chelle, it has become a reminder that understanding often matters more than assumptions.
Why does a Neuro-Trained PA matter?
When asked this question, Chelle’s answer was simple.
“A neuro-trained PA matters because the support provided is tailored to the individual, rather than expecting the individual to adapt to traditional systems that may not work for them.”
Many neurodivergent people have spent years feeling misunderstood or judged.
“Having someone who truly understands their needs can make a huge difference to confidence, wellbeing and everyday life.”
Chelle describes being a Neuro-Trained PA in three words:
Unique. Empowering. Neuro-inclusive.
Could Neuro-Trained Support Help You or Someone You Care About?
Our Neuro-Trained PAs provide practical, executive function-informed support that is personalised to the individual, helping people create systems, routines and approaches that genuinely work for them.
Find out more by booking a free discovery call with our team:
