Sonia has been involved with Action for Neurodiversity (AfN) since 2012. She came to AfN initially as a client following her diagnosis with Asperger’s syndrome in 2011 at the age of 26. As her mental health improved, Sonia stepped back from being a client and instead started volunteering

In addition to Asperger’s syndrome, Sonia lives with depression and Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) which she has lived with since she was a teenager. She was also diagnosed with ADHD of the inattentive type in 2019. As a result of all she lives with, Sonia has been through many ups and downs, and she never shies away from answering questions about any of her diagnoses, her in life experiences or her counselling experience

As well as her own lived experience, Sonia also has experience of living with and supporting somebody else with autism. This gives her insight into, and understanding of, the challenges that can come from living with or alongside neurodiversity, 

Sonia says:

“With my various diagnoses I understand the challenges they bring – both as someone living with them and as somebody supporting others who are neurodivergent. Furthermore, having had counselling myself, I understand how daunting it can be to think about entering that process and opening yourself to somebody. With my experiences, I am well placed as a port of call if you’re looking for a quick friendly chat or want to explore your options.”

If you would like to talk to Sonia, you can email her on:

 sonia.owen@actionforneurodiversity.org