About Complex Connexions

Here, at Complex Connexions, we understand the unique challenges that come with raising neurodivergent children, and we are here to offer practical solutions, compassionate guidance, and a supportive community.

Mission

To contribute to a world where all young people, no matter their individual strengths and struggles, have a true sense of acceptance and belonging within their family, which develops confidence and self belief.

Vision

To provide a community where parents and young people in ADHD/Autistic families can explore behaviour and responses through a brain and body lens, to support understanding and nurture collaboration and connection in the family.

Values

We embrace the values of empathy, simplicity and connection in our work with parents and young people, to create an inclusive and collaborative space, where individuals are accepted and celebrated.

Hi, I’m Shelley

I’m the Founder of Complex Connexions and also the parent of a neurodivergent young person; I understand the challenges and complexities (and joy and love) that come with supporting these children and teens.

What we offer

We offer 1-2-1 sessions for parents and children and teens (separately or together), which encourage curiosity and increase understanding of the needs of individual brains and nervous systems.  

We also offer the Safe and Sound Protocol for both adults and children – a music listening programme to support anxiety, sound sensitivities and social engagement struggles, as well as overall nervous system regulation.

Connect Parents

online workshops 

Informative and interactive workshops, designed specifically for parents of ADHD/Autistic children and teens.

1-2-1

support

Personalised, 1-2-1 sessions for parents and children, aimed at fostering stronger connections and improving communication within the family.

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)  

A music listening therapy which stimulates the vagus nerve and helps the nervous system to become more regulated and less stuck in a fight, flight or freeze response.

What we offer

Connect Parents

online workshops 

Informative and interactive workshops, designed specifically for parents of ADHD/Autistic children and teens. 

1-2-1

support

Personalised, 1-2-1 sessions for parents and children, aimed at fostering stronger connections and improving communication within the family.

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)  

A music listening therapy which stimulates the vagus nerve and helps the nervous system to become more regulated and less stuck in a fight, flight or freeze response.

As featured in

Meet our volunteer directors

Dominique

After becoming a parent, I completed an NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning. In addition to this, I served on the Board of Trustees as Treasurer and Administrator for a children’s nursery for 3 years, making use of my strong organisational skills and extensive administrative experience.

I have two sons and both have additional needs, one with sensory processing issues and the other diagnosed with Autism. I have spent the past 13 years understanding and adopting tools and techniques to ensure my boys achieve the best they possibly can.

Whilst trying to navigate the challenges that raising children with additional needs brings, I have found organisations such as this invaluable and I hope to be able to assist other families facing similar challenges.

Alison

With a background in admin, I retrained whilst on maternity leave to be a Teaching Assistant.  I worked in class, delivering small group and 1:1 interventions for 13 years before going back to my roots of admin and moved into my school office.  I recently left that job to work in airport security, as I can now take my holidays outside of peak time!

I have one son who is now a young adult.  Parenthood, for me, has definitely been challenging – school was not his happy place. I love getting outside for walks and the odd run, especially Parkrun, and also watching lots of sport.

James

I’m a Gallup Strengths coach and also the co-founder of Inspiration North, another North East CIC, that supports children’s personal growth, through recognising and developing their strengths.
 
I have personal and family experience of ADHD and Autism and I am a huge advocate for inclusion and equality of opportunity.
 
I work with corporate teams and individuals and am collaborating with Complex Connexions on a pilot programme to help Year 5 and 6 pupils become more aware of their strengths, to support their self-esteem and confidence.

I have one son who is now a young adult.