A one-day masterclass exploring the Two Spirals Model of Neurodivergent Wellbeing developed by Louise Lucas.

Supporting Neurodivergent Clients with the Two Spirals Model

A One-Day Online Masterclass with Louise Lucas and Zena Nicholas

Join us for a day of learning, reflection and conversation as we explore the Two Spirals Model of Neurodivergent Wellbeing, developed by therapist, supervisor and author Louise Lucas.

​

The model offers a way of understanding how neurodivergent people can become caught in cycles of dysregulation, reduced capacity, shame and burnout, and how we might support movement towards greater understanding, compassion and more sustainable wellbeing.

Together, we'll explore both spirals, how they interact and the ways our personal circumstances, relationships and wider systems can influence our wellbeing.

​

We'll also think about what this means for us as therapists. How might the support we offer change depending on where someone is in the spiral? What might be helpful when a client is overwhelmed or has very little capacity? And how can we support people to build resources and ways of caring for themselves when they have more space to do so?

Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to share ideas, ask questions and reflect on how the model might fit with the work you're already doing.

​

If you'd like to explore the model further, you can also find it in Louise's book, A Therapeutic Workbook for Supporting the Wellbeing of Neurodivergent Clients. The publisher also provides free downloadable resources to accompany the book.

​

From Understanding to Practice

Understanding the Two Spirals Model

We'll begin by exploring the two spirals and how they influence neurodivergent wellbeing, including:

• The downward spiral: How dysregulation, reduced capacity, difficulties meeting expectations and shame can build on one another, sometimes leading towards burnout.

• The upward spiral: How prioritising care for self can support greater regulation, capacity and self-worth.

• How our circumstances, access to resources, intersectional identities and wider systems can influence both spirals.

• Why the balance between the spirals can shift over time, and why understanding someone's current circumstances matters.

​

​

Integrating the Model into Therapeutic Practice

In the afternoon, we'll explore how we might use the model in our work with clients, drawing on three interconnected strands:

Knowledge, gained through curiosity

Getting to know the person in front of us, including their neurodivergence, values, needs, experiences and wider circumstances. We'll also consider how internalised beliefs and oppressive systems can shape someone's understanding of themselves.

Understanding, supported by kindness

Making sense of what that knowledge means for the individual. What might be contributing to their difficulties? What support could make a difference? And what is realistic and sustainable for them, given their current circumstances and capacity?

Acceptance, grounded in compassion

Exploring how we can support clients to understand and respond to their needs with greater compassion. This might include making space for grief, letting go of expectations that no longer serve them and finding approaches that work for them rather than against them.

 

Backfilling and Frontloading Support

We'll also spend time exploring two different ways of offering support, depending on where someone is in their spiral.

• Backfilling: When someone is overwhelmed, distressed or experiencing burnout, the priority may be helping them with what's happening right now. We'll consider how reducing demands, attending to immediate needs and finding practical support can make a difference.

• Frontloading: When someone has more capacity, there may be opportunities to look ahead, understand their needs more fully and put resources and support in place for times when things become harder.

We'll reflect on what these approaches might look like in our own therapeutic work, recognising that what helps one person may not be right for another, and that someone's needs can change over time.

 

Practical Information & Accessibility

Date: Friday 29 January 2027
Time: 9.30am–3.00pm (UK time)
Location: Online via Zoom

Tickets: £175, Earlybird Tickets Available until 30th November £155

 

How the Day Will Run

The day will be a mixture of teaching, reflection and conversation. We'll make space for questions and discussion as we go, while recognising that everyone will engage in their own way.

Morning session | 9.30am–12.30pm

We'll explore the downward and upward spirals of neurodivergent wellbeing, looking at the roles of regulation, capacity, self-worth and care for self. We'll also consider how our experiences, circumstances and wider systems shape the way we move through the spirals.

Lunch break | 12.30pm–1.00pm

Afternoon session | 1.00pm–3.00pm

We'll turn our attention to how we can bring the model into our therapeutic work, exploring knowledge, understanding and acceptance, alongside practical approaches to backfilling and frontloading support

.

There will be opportunities to reflect on your own practice, share ideas and ask questions.

 

We'll include short comfort breaks throughout the day, and we'll finish at 3.00pm.

 

What You'll Receive

As part of the masterclass, you'll receive:

• 5 hours of CPD

• Training handouts and resources

• A certificate of attendance

 

Participation and Accessibility

We want this to be a space where you can learn and take part in ways that work for you.

There is no expectation to share personal experiences, speak in discussions or contribute more than feels comfortable.

You're welcome to have your camera on or off, move around, take notes, step away when you need to or use whatever helps you feel comfortable and engaged throughout the day.

If there's anything we can do to make the training more accessible for you, or you'd like to talk through any adjustments beforehand, please get in touch.