Neurodivergence Training for Mental Health Professionals in Ireland
This week, I delivered neurodivergence training in collaboration with the Nursing Practice Development team within North Dublin Mental Health Services (HSE).
The session brought together staff from across mental health services, with a shared focus on enhancing understanding and support for neurodivergent individuals within clinical practice.
It was very encouraging to see such strong engagement and a clear commitment to developing more informed, responsive, and supportive approaches.
Why Neurodivergence Training Is Important in Mental Health Services
Neurodivergence — including ADHD and autism — is increasingly recognised within mental health settings.
However, many mental health professionals report that traditional training does not always fully address:
- how neurodivergence presents in clinical settings
- how ADHD and autism overlap with mental health difficulties
- how to adapt communication and therapeutic approaches
- how to support emotional regulation and reduce overwhelm
Developing a neurodivergent-informed approach allows professionals to better understand the experiences of the individuals they support.
A Neurodivergent-Informed Approach
This neurodivergence training for mental health professionals focuses on practical, real-world application.
The training includes:
Understanding ADHD and Autism in Practice
Recognising how ADHD and autism present in mental health settings, including overlapping profiles.
Regulation and Mental Health
Understanding emotional regulation, anxiety, and overwhelm in neurodivergent individuals.
Communication and Engagement
Adapting communication to better support neurodivergent clients.
Environment and Sensory Factors
How environments impact behaviour, engagement, and overall wellbeing.
Lived Experience and Clinical Expertise
This training is informed by both clinical experience and lived experience of neurodivergence.
This allows for a deeper understanding of how ADHD and autism present in real-world contexts, particularly in relation to mental health, emotional regulation, and day-to-day functioning.
Neurodivergence Training Options for Mental Health Professionals
I provide neurodivergence training for mental health professionals and organisations across Ireland and the UK.
One-Day Neurodivergence Training
A comprehensive CPD-informed training day covering ADHD, autism, and neurodivergent-informed practice within mental health services.
Half-Day Workshops
Focused sessions on areas such as emotional regulation, communication, and engagement.
CPD Training Sessions (60–90 minutes)
Targeted CPD training suitable for team development, staff training days, or professional development events.
Bespoke Neurodiversity Training
Training can be tailored to your organisation, service, or client group.
Training is available:
- In person across Ireland
- Online for organisations in Ireland and the UK
What Mental Health Teams Gain from Training
- Increased confidence in working with neurodivergent individuals
- Greater understanding of ADHD and autism in practice
- Practical tools that can be applied immediately
- Improved engagement and outcomes for service users
Book Neurodivergence Training
If your organisation is looking to provide neurodivergence training for mental health professionals, you are welcome to get in touch.
Training can be tailored to your service, team, and client group.
Email: info@robertrackley.ie
Website: www.robertrackley.ie
About Robert Rackley
Robert Rackley MSc MIACP is a psychotherapist specialising in ADHD, autism, and neurodivergent mental health.
Providing neurodivergence training for mental health professionals, alongside therapy and public speaking.
