Karen has worked in primary schools for many years, and is the mother of 2 teenagers with complex needs including Autism and ADHD. She was also diagnosed with Autism when her search for information and understanding of her children’s needs revealed that many of the diagnostic traits applied to her too, explaining why parenting was so tricky for the family across the board. With a family history including neurodiversity and complex mental health needs, she recognises that she has had a lifetime of training and experiential learning that has led her to this point of being able to support other parents as they experience these challenges .She is passionate about increasing the focus on positively, recognising behaviour as the language of emotion and needs as well as helping the individual recognise their strengths. Karen believes that preparation for transitions up to and including to adult services, is key for success.