Too often, neurodivergent people and families face long waits, overstretched services, and systems that feel more like barriers than support. I wanted to create a service where individuals could feel truly heard, and where parents could find the practical guidance they need to secure the right provision for their child.

That’s why I founded The Inside Me — to bring together my experience in both counselling and SEND leadership, and to offer clear, compassionate support to those who need it most.

My Background

My name is Oran Blackwood (BA, PGCE, NASENCo, MA, MSc). I have worked in mainstream schools, special schools, and alternative provision, secondary and further education phases. I trained as a school counsellor and developed my practice in therapy services and voluntary organisations over many years.

My experience includes:

• Counselling with adolescents and adults, including creative approaches such as play and art therapy.

• SEND leadership as a SENCo in secondary and post-16 settings, with particular focus on exclusion, school refusal, and placement pathways.

• Supporting neurodivergent young people and families around autism and ADHD, including navigating assessments and post-assessment support.

• Community work with organisations such as the National Autistic Society.

This blend of therapeutic practice and educational leadership allows me to support both individuals seeking counselling and parents navigating the SEND system.

My Approach

Whether in the counselling room or in a consultancy meeting, my values remain the same:

• To work in a neuro-affirming way, recognising difference as strength.

• To be compassionate and practical, offering both empathy and clear next steps.

• To ensure that every individual and family I support feels understood, respected, and empowered.