FOUNDER STORY & CLINICAL ETHOS

A neurodivergent-led practice, built around people rather than services

EK Psychotherapies provides specialist, evidence-based mental health and neurodiversity services for children, young people and adults.

Winner, SME News Northern Enterprise Awards 2026
Neurodivergent-led
ICO Registered (ZB121783)Company No. 14497835
Elisha Kemp, Founder and Director of EK Psychotherapies

Elisha Kemp

FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR

Accredited by BABCP (2016) and EMDR Association UK (2021)

THE FOUNDER STORY

How it started

EK Psychotherapies didn’t start with a big launch. It started with me, working alone and seeing client after client who had waited far too long to be understood.

So many of the people I met had spent years feeling different, misunderstood or simply missed. They just wanted to make sense of themselves. I knew there had to be a better way: assessments and support that were thorough and clinically sound, but also warm and human.

I’m also neurodivergent myself. That’s a big part of why this business exists. I know what it’s like to feel misunderstood, and to sit in services that weren’t really built with people like me in mind.

As both a clinician working within neurodivergence and someone diagnosed later in life, I think we need thoughtful, evidence-based conversations about ADHD. We should absolutely be able to discuss concerns around assessment and diagnosis, but without invalidating people in the process.

The award isn’t really the point. The point is every person who walks away from us feeling seen, understood and better equipped for their life.
FOUNDER INTRODUCTION

Why EK Psychotherapies exists

Video · 0:39

Why Elisha started EK Psychotherapies
Being neurodivergent and diagnosed later in life
A pathway that is easier to access and book
Read the written transcript
So a lot of people ask me why I do this. So when I started EK Psychotherapies, I was alone, and I was seeing clients that felt totally misunderstood. So for me, being neurodivergent as well, and also being diagnosed later in life, I wanted to make that process feel smoother for people, for it to feel like it was easier to access. People was really struggling to be able to access these things. So I developed our pathway to make it so easy for you to book. So easy for you to feel confident about the assessment that you're having, rather than wondering, will I be diagnosed? Can I afford this? What's going to happen next?
HOW WE WORK

Our core clinical principles

Built around people

People shouldn’t have to fit into services: services should be built around people.

Therapy that adapts to you

We don’t expect clients to adapt to therapy. We adapt therapy to them: how they communicate, how they process things, what they need to feel safe.

Start of support, not the end

For us, a diagnosis should be the start of support, not the end of it.

Our values

Our values: compassion without judgement, evidence-based care, inclusion and honesty.

CLINICAL RECOGNITION

Recognition

WINNER 2026

Winner: Best Nationwide Mental Health & Neurodiversity Support Practice 2026

SME News Northern Enterprise Awards

FINALIST

Finalist: Female Entrepreneur of the Year (Elisha Kemp)

The UK Small Business Awards 2026

FINALIST

Finalist: Best Community Contribution (EK Psychotherapies Ltd)

The UK Small Business Awards 2026

GOVERNANCE & SAFETY

Clinical governance and standards

EK Psychotherapies Ltd, company number 14497835, registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ZB121783).

Assessment pathways designed to align with NICE guidelines NG87, CG128 and CG142.

Every assessment reviewed at a multi-disciplinary meeting before any outcome is agreed.

Diagnoses made and signed off by our HCPC-registered clinical or counselling psychologists.

Regular clinical supervision and multi-disciplinary case reviews for all clinicians.

Operating in accordance with the ethical frameworks and professional standards of BABCP, EMDR UK and HCPC; holding professional indemnity insurance.

Elisha Kemp

FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR

Accredited by BABCP (2016) and EMDR Association UK (2021)

Clinical Background:

Postgraduate Diploma in CBT (Northumbria University)
Perinatal training (Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust)
Clinical Lecturer (University of Hull, 2023–2025)
FOUNDER QUALIFICATIONS

Elisha’s training and credentials

Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (BABCP)

Accreditation issued May 2016 by the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies.

Accredited EMDR Therapist (EMDR Association UK)

Accreditation issued May 2021; EMDR Europe accredited training completed with EMDR Academy (2021).

Postgraduate Diploma in Evidence Based Psychological Therapy (CBT)

Awarded by the University of Northumbria at Newcastle (2018).

Perinatal training for psychologists and therapists

The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust (2019).

Clinical Lecturer

University of Hull, Mental Health Wellbeing Practitioner course (2023–2025).

ADHD assessor; ADHD and autism coach

Training to become an EMDR consultant; clinical supervisor for CBT and EMDR; former CAMHS practitioner.

RECOGNITION & REGISTRATIONS

SME News Northern Enterprise Awards 2026 Winner
Winner 2026SME News Northern Enterprise Awards
BABCP Accredited logoBABCPElisha Kemp, accredited by BABCP (2016)
EMDR Association UK logoEMDR Association UKElisha Kemp, accredited by EMDR Association UK (2021)
The CPD Certification Service logoThe CPD Certification ServiceCPD Certified
ICO RegisteredRegistration ZB121783
THE CLINICAL TEAM

Our clinical team

The relationship you build with your clinician can make all the difference. Take your time choosing someone who feels right for you.

Elisha Kemp - Founder and Director / ADHD Assessor / ADHD & Autism Coach / CBT & EMDR Psychotherapist
BABCP / EMDR UK

Elisha Kemp

Founder and Director / ADHD Assessor / ADHD & Autism Coach / CBT & EMDR Psychotherapist

Accredited by BABCP (2016) and EMDR Association UK (2021)

With over fourteen years of experience in mental health, I specialise in evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy to support individuals on their healing journey. I am a qualified ADHD Assessor and specialise in adapted Neurodiverse coaching and therapeutic sessions for clients.

Elisha Kemp - Founder and Director / ADHD Assessor / ADHD & Autism Coach / CBT & EMDR Psychotherapist
BABCP / EMDR UK

Elisha Kemp

Founder and Director / ADHD Assessor / ADHD & Autism Coach / CBT & EMDR Psychotherapist

Accredited by BABCP (2016) and EMDR Association UK (2021)

With over fourteen years of experience in mental health, I specialise in evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy to support individuals on their healing journey. I am a qualified ADHD Assessor and specialise in adapted Neurodiverse coaching and therapeutic sessions for clients.

I am also a Consultant in training in EMDR and offer supervision for both CBT and EMDR.

Dr Laura Taylor-Gray - Counselling Psychologist / ADHD & Autism Assessor / Cognitive Analytic Therapist
HCPC

Dr Laura Taylor-Gray

Counselling Psychologist / ADHD & Autism Assessor / Cognitive Analytic Therapist

HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist

As a Highly Specialist Practitioner Psychologist, working mainly with individuals who have suffered various childhood traumas, I also offer assessments for ADHD and Autism.

Dr Laura Taylor-Gray - Counselling Psychologist / ADHD & Autism Assessor / Cognitive Analytic Therapist
HCPC

Dr Laura Taylor-Gray

Counselling Psychologist / ADHD & Autism Assessor / Cognitive Analytic Therapist

HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist

As a Highly Specialist Practitioner Psychologist, working mainly with individuals who have suffered various childhood traumas, I also offer assessments for ADHD and Autism.

As a result, I have found that individuals with personality issues, Complex-PTSD, mood disorders and neurodiversity feel I am the best fit for them.

I also specialise in CAT Therapy which treats disorders such as Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Focusing on difficulties with relationships and interpersonal conflict. Personality difficulties, self-harm, and eating issues.

Salomea Lubojanska-Sikora - Clinical Psychologist / ADHD Assessor / CBT & EMDR Therapist
HCPC

Salomea Lubojanska-Sikora

Clinical Psychologist / ADHD Assessor / CBT & EMDR Therapist

HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist (Therapy in Polish & English)

I have nine years of experience working in mental health supporting individuals facing a variety of emotional and psychological challenges. Including neurodiversity, depression and low mood, anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, sleep difficulties, low self-esteem, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I offer online therapy sessions in both Polish and English to meet individuals needs.

Salomea Lubojanska-Sikora - Clinical Psychologist / ADHD Assessor / CBT & EMDR Therapist
HCPC

Salomea Lubojanska-Sikora

Clinical Psychologist / ADHD Assessor / CBT & EMDR Therapist

HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist (Therapy in Polish & English)

I have nine years of experience working in mental health supporting individuals facing a variety of emotional and psychological challenges. Including neurodiversity, depression and low mood, anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, sleep difficulties, low self-esteem, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I offer online therapy sessions in both Polish and English to meet individuals needs.

I also offer Assessment appointments for ADHD and Autism.

Dr Goel - Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr Goel

Consultant Psychiatrist

Trained in Liaison Psychiatry

I am a Consultant Psychiatrist, trained in Liaison Psychiatry, the specialty that sits at the intersection of physical and mental health, giving me particular expertise in patients where the two overlap.

Dr Goel - Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr Goel

Consultant Psychiatrist

Trained in Liaison Psychiatry

I am a Consultant Psychiatrist, trained in Liaison Psychiatry, the specialty that sits at the intersection of physical and mental health, giving me particular expertise in patients where the two overlap.

My specialities are in the following areas: • ADHD and complex psychiatric presentations • Integrating physical and mental health, treating the whole person

Siobhan Prince - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
RMN

Siobhan Prince

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN) · Trained in CFT

I’m a Registered Mental Health Nurse & accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with over 10 years of experience across mental health settings. I’m also trained in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Siobhan Prince - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
RMN

Siobhan Prince

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN) · Trained in CFT

I’m a Registered Mental Health Nurse & accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with over 10 years of experience across mental health settings. I’m also trained in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Kirstie Davidson - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Kirstie Davidson

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an effective, evidence-based treatment for a range of common mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and more.

Kirstie Davidson - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Kirstie Davidson

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an effective, evidence-based treatment for a range of common mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and more.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Emily Gearing - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Emily Gearing

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

As an accredited, neurodivergent-affirming CBT therapist, I offer sessions as part of our ADHD and Autism assessments and aftercare. I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and burnout who feel stuck or know something needs to change, providing a warm, compassionate, inclusive space for all.

Emily Gearing - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Emily Gearing

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

As an accredited, neurodivergent-affirming CBT therapist, I offer sessions as part of our ADHD and Autism assessments and aftercare. I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and burnout who feel stuck or know something needs to change, providing a warm, compassionate, inclusive space for all.

Kerry Augustus - CBT & EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
BABCP

Kerry Augustus

CBT & EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

BABCP Accredited

I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have worked in mental health services for over 14 years supporting people with common mental health difficulties such as depression, stress and anxiety disorders.

Kerry Augustus - CBT & EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
BABCP

Kerry Augustus

CBT & EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

BABCP Accredited

I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have worked in mental health services for over 14 years supporting people with common mental health difficulties such as depression, stress and anxiety disorders.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Jo Luke - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Jo Luke

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

I am an experienced clinician, trained to deliver CBT and EMDR interventions for anxiety and mood disorders and trauma presentations.

Jo Luke - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Jo Luke

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

I am an experienced clinician, trained to deliver CBT and EMDR interventions for anxiety and mood disorders and trauma presentations.

With a background in social care and mental health provision I’m aware of the challenges faced by different communities and I am committed to empowering people to overcome obstacles and create change.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Krishna Chauhan - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
BABCP

Krishna Chauhan

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

BABCP Accredited · ACT & CFT

With over 8 years of experience working in mental health, I am a BABCP accredited CBT therapist. I support individuals with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, Social anxiety, Health anxiety, long term physical health conditions and PTSD. In addition to CBT, I also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy in my work.

Krishna Chauhan - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
BABCP

Krishna Chauhan

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

BABCP Accredited · ACT & CFT

With over 8 years of experience working in mental health, I am a BABCP accredited CBT therapist. I support individuals with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, Social anxiety, Health anxiety, long term physical health conditions and PTSD. In addition to CBT, I also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy in my work.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Jasneet Kaur - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Jasneet Kaur

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Jas is a CBT and EMDR therapist who provides structured, evidence-based support. She focuses on helping clients build coping skills, process difficult experiences, and increase their resilience through supportive, engaging and non- judgemental sessions.

Jasneet Kaur - CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Jasneet Kaur

CBT/EMDR Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Jas is a CBT and EMDR therapist who provides structured, evidence-based support. She focuses on helping clients build coping skills, process difficult experiences, and increase their resilience through supportive, engaging and non- judgemental sessions.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Emma Mills - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Emma Mills

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, supporting adults dealing with depression and anxiety. I work with individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, excessive worry, panic attacks, phobias, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and low self-esteem.

Emma Mills - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Emma Mills

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, supporting adults dealing with depression and anxiety. I work with individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, excessive worry, panic attacks, phobias, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and low self-esteem.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Vineeta Punn - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

Vineeta Punn

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

I am a PWP with over a decade of experience in helping and supporting people with their mental and physical health, in order to lead a meaningful life.

Vineeta Punn - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

Vineeta Punn

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

I am a PWP with over a decade of experience in helping and supporting people with their mental and physical health, in order to lead a meaningful life.

I am experienced in motivational interviewing, goal setting, psychological treatment of common mental health difficulties, as well as nutritional guidance.

Sarah Joseph - CBT Therapist

Sarah Joseph

CBT Therapist

I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist offering a personalised, evidence-based approach rooted in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Sarah Joseph - CBT Therapist

Sarah Joseph

CBT Therapist

I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist offering a personalised, evidence-based approach rooted in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and supported as you work through life’s challenges. Committed to your growth and well-being, I’ll help you create lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

Donna Wilkinson-Clegg - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
BABCP

Donna Wilkinson-Clegg

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

BABCP Accredited

As an accredited Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner with the BABCP I have over 5 years experience in supporting people with common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, and OCD.

Donna Wilkinson-Clegg - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
BABCP

Donna Wilkinson-Clegg

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

BABCP Accredited

As an accredited Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner with the BABCP I have over 5 years experience in supporting people with common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, and OCD.

Supporting both groups and individuals through guided self-help CBT, taking great pride in empowering people to achieve their goals and improve their well-being.

Zalika Sterling-Russell - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
BABCP

Zalika Sterling-Russell

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

BABCP Registered

I am a BABCP Registered Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. Trained to treat a range of common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

Zalika Sterling-Russell - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
BABCP

Zalika Sterling-Russell

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

BABCP Registered

I am a BABCP Registered Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. Trained to treat a range of common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

We will work together to explore your main difficulties before learning the tools to manage your condition.

I strive to build positive therapeutic relationships with each and every one of my clients.

Simelinkosi Nyathi - CBT Therapist / Eating Disorders CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
RMN

Simelinkosi Nyathi

CBT Therapist / Eating Disorders CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN)

I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Registered Mental Health Nurse with over 10 years of experience across eating disorder and mental health services. I specialise in high-intensity CBT and CBT-Eating Disorders, supporting adults with eating disorders and complex mental health needs using evidence-based, person-centred approaches.

Simelinkosi Nyathi - CBT Therapist / Eating Disorders CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
RMN

Simelinkosi Nyathi

CBT Therapist / Eating Disorders CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN)

I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Registered Mental Health Nurse with over 10 years of experience across eating disorder and mental health services. I specialise in high-intensity CBT and CBT-Eating Disorders, supporting adults with eating disorders and complex mental health needs using evidence-based, person-centred approaches.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Judita Kundrotaite - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
BABCP

Judita Kundrotaite

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

BABCP Accredited

I am a qualified and BABCP-accredited CBT therapist with over nine years of experience in Mental Health Services. I specialise in treating depression and anxiety disorders, including Social, Generalised, and Health anxiety, OCD, phobias, and self-esteem issues.

Judita Kundrotaite - CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor
BABCP

Judita Kundrotaite

CBT Therapist / ADHD & Autism Assessor

BABCP Accredited

I am a qualified and BABCP-accredited CBT therapist with over nine years of experience in Mental Health Services. I specialise in treating depression and anxiety disorders, including Social, Generalised, and Health anxiety, OCD, phobias, and self-esteem issues.

I am also involved in the Neurodiversity pathway gathering information around ADHD and Autism.

Jason Matthews - CBT Therapist
BABCP

Jason Matthews

CBT Therapist

BABCP Registered

Hi, I'm Jason. I'm a BABCP registered Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I specialise in helping individuals with common mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression.

Jason Matthews - CBT Therapist
BABCP

Jason Matthews

CBT Therapist

BABCP Registered

Hi, I'm Jason. I'm a BABCP registered Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I specialise in helping individuals with common mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression.

Candice Williams - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
BABCP

Candice Williams

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

BABCP Accredited

I am an accredited PWP with the BABCP. I have over 6 years of experience in supporting people with common mental health conditions, offering low intensity therapy based on CBT principles.

Candice Williams - Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
BABCP

Candice Williams

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)

BABCP Accredited

I am an accredited PWP with the BABCP. I have over 6 years of experience in supporting people with common mental health conditions, offering low intensity therapy based on CBT principles.

I am a kind, person-centered therapist with interests in neurodiversity, health, and fitness. I offer a collaborative, holistic approach encouraging you to overcome obstacles that you may be facing.

EXTERNAL COLLABORATIONS

Who we collaborate with

We work in collaboration with Hudgell Solicitors, Medical Solicitors, Health Connect, Abuka, Elizabeth Care Consulting and Aim Higher, a charity supporting young people.

Hudgell Solicitors logo

Hudgell Solicitors

Medical Solicitors logo

Medical Solicitors

Aim Higher logo

Aim Higher

A charity supporting young people.

Health Connect logo

Health Connect

Abuka logo

Abuka

Elizabeth Care Consulting logo

Elizabeth Care Consulting

BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY

Talk to us

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ADHD, Autism or Both?

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