About me

I am Kirsti Willis (she/they), a late diagnosed autistic, HCPC registered Art Psychotherapist, as well as a member of BAAT). As well as art psychotherapy, I offer counselling, mental health mentoring, parenting support, neurodivergence consultancy and training. I am neuro and LGBTQIA+ affirming, as well as an advocate and ally to minorities. In my work I draw from my extensive professional expertise and experience to offer my clients a well-rounded and comprehensive service. This give my clients the best possible chance of success in reaching their mental health related goals.

My academic background includes a BSc in Psychology (Hons), a PG Cert in Counselling Studies, an MSc in Counselling Studies and an MSc in Art Psychotherapy, as well as a BBA in International Business from my (distant) youth when I was not sure about what I wanted to do with my life!

I have been working with autistic/ADHD/dyslexic children, young people and adults of all ages for decades, in many different capacities, most recently as a senior clinician at CAMHS, a Mental Health Mentor to students (through Theorise), and a Senior Advisor (Emotional Wellbeing) at Scottish Autism.

In addition to neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+, I also specialise in parenting/parenthood and chronic illness (such as Long COVID, ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia and MS).

I am very aware of the fact that most (if not all) neurodivergent people carry some trauma (often from emotional and/or physical abuse, such as bullying, and/or neglect such as abandonment), and I practice in a trauma informed way.

For your peace of mind, I am fully insured to provide both counselling and art psychotherapy. I am also registered with the ICO.

My personal background is somewhat diverse, as my roots are both in Northern and Southern Europe, and I have lived in a few different European countries. Therefore, I think I have a slightly better than average appreciation of the impact and significance of cultural heritage/influences on mental health, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. Some countries seem significantly ahead of others in the understanding of neurodivergence and/or mental health issues. These issues can even be seen as taboo, which can make it very hard for neurodivergent individuals to find and receive appropriate support, or (if one is seeking it) a diagnosis, as this may not be available. I can work with people from most countries (and can accommodate different time zones), but there are some exceptions, so please check with me first.

Finnish is my mother tongue, so I can work in English and Finnish alike. I also speak a few other European languages, but, unfortunately, not to the level of being able to work in them, at the moment.

Book a free, no obligation, introductory (15 min) online meeting/phone call now!