NeuroNest Psychology

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Dr Laura Surley, Clinical Psychologist Newcastle Upon Tyne
ADHD, autism & cognitive assessments Post-diagnostic support & consultation
For children, young people and adults

19/02/2026

I'm so excited to share this. I've poured my heart into developing NeuroNest Psychology and to find out that we've been recognised in this way is such a proud moment. It means that what I've spent the last year creating is landing, helping and supporting - and people are noticing.

But while awards are lovely, what is so much more important is feedback from the families and people we work with.

We've had the best feedback from families this week. Heartfelt, gorgeous comments and gratitude. It's really nice to be acknowledged like this, but I don't need awards to tell me we're doing a good job. What I want to do is listen to families and to keep evolving our services to meet the need that is there.

I'm saying with heart - I want to change the face of neurodevelopmental assessment. It doesn't have to be cold and clinical, a checklist production line. It can be empowering and healing. It can be done with heart and good vibes and warm cups of tea.

Please get in touch if you are thinking about an assessment for yourself or your child. A warm welcome awaits and whether your full journey is with us or not, we'd love to be part of the next step.

You can contact me at info@neuronestpsychology.co.uk

My job gives me sleepless nights. Probably not for any of the reasons you might expect. Not because I dread going to wor...
05/02/2026

My job gives me sleepless nights. Probably not for any of the reasons you might expect. Not because I dread going to work - of course I have the odd Sunday Scaries but I actually love my job. Not because I don't like the people I work with - I hold my clients very dearly and although I don't work in a team anymore I've managed to find my people. And not because of any of the other obvious reasons like finances, business challenges or worrying where my next enquiry will come from.

What keeps me up at night is rage and helplessness - it's moral injury. Watching families navigate the SEND system, trying so hard to be an ally and an advocate but feeling completely helpless and hopeless as a professional. And the insight into what parents and children are having to navigate. That's what keeps me up at night.

I'm so aware of the privilege I hold in not having had to navigate the SEND system personally. And that keeps me quiet because I feel I have no right to speak, or shout, about what is happening. But I see it, I'm involved in it, and I care deeply about it.

People are being distracted by this narrative of over diagnosis, villainous private practices, neurodivergence as a 'fad' and an excuse to fraudulently access benefits and extra support. And all the while parents and children are being pushed to the absolute brink of despair, distress and desperation.

Anyone who has walked this system, personally or professionally, knows that it is almost impossible to navigate and survive it, nevermind actually benefit from it or exploit it for gain.

This is all so heavy for me today and I don't know what else to do but write and share and have a cry. I'm a tiny little tiddler in a sea full of sharks but I feel and I see, and I want to help.

At NeuroNest Psychology, we know that taking the step to seek an assessment for yourself or your child can feel big and ...
06/09/2025

At NeuroNest Psychology, we know that taking the step to seek an assessment for yourself or your child can feel big and sometimes daunting. Many families tell us they found the process of choosing a service overwhelming at first — not knowing who to trust or where to start.

That’s why testimonials and reviews mean so much. They aren’t just kind words (though we really do treasure those!) — they’re signposts for other parents, carers, and individuals who might be feeling overwhelmed and confused - exactly how you might be feeling now.

When our clients share their experiences it helps to:
🌱 Offer reassurance to someone who’s unsure where to turn
🌱 Show what compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming assessment can look like
🌱 Keep us doing what we do best — supporting curious minds to grow

We’ll be sharing some of our feedback over our next few posts. If you’ve worked with us and would like to leave a review, it would mean the world. Your voice might just be the one that gives another family the confidence to take that first step. 💛

Thinking about a neurodevelopmental assessment for your child (or yourself)? We know it can feel confusing and overwhelm...
17/08/2025

Thinking about a neurodevelopmental assessment for your child (or yourself)? We know it can feel confusing and overwhelming, so we wanted to give you a clear picture of how NeuroNest Psychology works and what makes us different.

1. We’re small (and we like it that way) – Being a small team means we can deliver truly personalised assessment pathways. Whether you need an urgent assessment or prefer a slower pace over several sessions, we can make it work for you.

2. We’re local – Based in Gosforth, we can do all parts of our assessment face-to-face, with the option of Teams if that works better. We have strong links with local schools and colleges, including school observations, because we want to be a trusted part of our local community.

3. Short waiting list – Our current wait time is just 4–6 weeks, and assessments, once started, can be completed with a report within 3–4 weeks.

4. Skilled and passionate team – Led by a Clinical Psychologist, our small team also includes Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and input from a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. We have links with an experienced prescriber for medication needs. All assessments are NICE-compliant and draw on extensive NHS and private experience.

5. Free, no-obligation screening – Before committing to a full assessment, we offer a free screening. Complete a long form and a couple of questionnaires online, and we’ll review them to recommend whether a full assessment is indicated.

6. Built-in post-diagnostic support – As part of our assessment pathway, we offer feedback sessions plus one additional post-diagnostic session. You can use this time however is most helpful — discussing what the diagnosis means, liaising with school, or planning next steps.

7. We could chat all day about neurodivergence – We know there’s a lot to weigh up. If you’re considering an assessment, we’re happy to talk through all your options, whether that’s with us, the NHS, or Right to Choose.

Get in touch: info@neuronestpsychology.co.uk

We’re here to help you navigate this journey with clarity, care and a focus on what works best for you and your family.

NeuroNest Psychology - a place to rest your struggles and discover your strengths.
01/08/2025

NeuroNest Psychology - a place to rest your struggles and discover your strengths.

I’ve been sitting with a growing discomfort lately. In some online spaces, there's a narrative taking hold—one that pain...
20/07/2025

I’ve been sitting with a growing discomfort lately. In some online spaces, there's a narrative taking hold—one that paints private psychologists, especially those of us working in neurodevelopmental assessment, as greedy villains handing out diagnoses like sweeties to the highest bidder. Who 'diagnose and dump'.

But it doesn’t stop there. Families are being caught in the crossfire too. There’s a cruel caricature of parents 'diagnosis shopping' to excuse behaviour or claim benefits—as if seeking understanding for your child is something to be suspicious of. As if wanting support is somehow selfish or manipulative.

This couldn’t be further from the truth of how I practice — or of the families I meet.

The assessment process I offer is not a tick-box exercise. No production line. No diagnose and dump. It's a deep, collaborative, and often emotional journey. Whether a diagnosis is made or not, this process can be profoundly therapeutic. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and make sense of a lifetime of experiences—for the child, for the family, and often for the generations around them too.

We explore strengths, challenges, patterns, and adaptations. We gently unpick the 'why' behind the 'what'. And in doing so, we often uncover not just needs, but gifts. Not just labels, but language. Not just answers, but compassion.

Yes, a diagnosis can open doors. But it’s not the only reason people seek this support. Sometimes, what’s needed most is the relief of finally being seen and understood.

So I will keep holding space for this work to be taken seriously. For families to be met with empathy and compassion, not judgement and suspicion. For assessments to be recognised as meaningful, respectful, and life-enhancing.

Because when done well, this is not about labelling — it’s about liberation.

At NeuroNest Psychology we offer ADHD, autism and cognitive assessments for children, young people and adults. Our asses...
06/07/2025

At NeuroNest Psychology we offer ADHD, autism and cognitive assessments for children, young people and adults.

Our assessments are completed in accordance with NICE guidance by a team of experienced, qualified clinicians.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss an assessment. We offer a free screening assessment to ensure that a full assessment is indicated, and we're happy to chat through options.

You can find us via the WhatsApp link on our page, or at info@neuronestpsychology.co.uk

The Bit No One Talks About — CostI recently spoke with a parent who was confused about why assessment prices can vary so...
01/07/2025

The Bit No One Talks About — Cost

I recently spoke with a parent who was confused about why assessment prices can vary so much, even when it sounds like the same thing. It’s one of the trickiest parts of choosing the right service.

At NeuroNest Psychology, we know this is a big decision — and yes, our assessments aren’t the cheapest (or most expensive) option. But here’s what you get when you choose us:

⭐ A truly bespoke pathway — no production-line appointments, no rushing. The assessment takes as long as it needs to, for one fixed price.

⭐ Flexible appointments that fit your life, whether that’s evenings, weekends, face-to-face, Teams, or even home visits.

⭐ An exploratory, holistic approach — we don’t just tick boxes. We understand how you or your child thinks, feels, learns, and thrives.

⭐ We look at the whole system — home, school, work, emotions, strengths — your full story matters.

⭐ It’s about understanding, not labelling — our process is neuro-affirming and collaborative, designed to help you feel seen and empowered.

⭐ Your report will be more than a diagnosis — it’s a narrative that brings hope and personalised next steps.

🌟 And the support continues beyond feedback — whether it’s coaching sessions, school meetings, or reviewing recommendations, we’re with you.

If this sounds like the assessment you’re looking for, please get in touch. We’d love to walk this journey with you.

✨ Welcome to NeuroNest Psychology ✨Hiya — I’m Laura. I’m a Clinical Psychologist, founder of NeuroNest Psychology, and s...
21/06/2025

✨ Welcome to NeuroNest Psychology ✨
Hiya — I’m Laura. I’m a Clinical Psychologist, founder of NeuroNest Psychology, and someone who’s genuinely passionate about neurodevelopmental assessment.

People often associate psychologists with therapy — and while that’s something I truly value, it’s this work that’s at the heart of what I do. Exploring neurodivergence, supporting individuals and families to better understand themselves, and helping the systems around them adapt with compassion… that’s where my heart is.

Assessment and post-diagnostic work is where I do my best work. Sitting with families, tuning in, joining the dots, and helping things finally make sense — that’s where I come alive.

💛 NeuroNest is my way of doing this work differently. No tick-boxing. No rush jobs. No production line. No jargon-filled reports that leave you none the wiser. Just thoughtful, compassionate, neuro-affirming assessment — where you or your child feel heard, held, and properly understood.

I’m a proud Geordie, and after years working in specialist NHS services, it means the world to be offering something grounded and local. I care deeply about serving my community — with warmth, honesty, and care.

🧠 I work with children, teens, and adults who are exploring autism, ADHD, learning differences, or just have that sense that something’s not quite clicking.
🌿 My approach is collaborative, kind, and rooted in a belief that neurodivergence isn’t something to “fix” — but something to understand.
✨ Most families come to me feeling overwhelmed, confused or even burnt out. My aim is that you leave feeling clearer, calmer, and more connected to your child (or yourself).

If you’ve found your way here and you’re wondering whether a neurodevelopmental assessment might help — whether for your child or for yourself — you are so welcome. NeuroNest was made for you.

📍 Based in the North East
📥 DM me or head to the link in bio to find out more

I’m Laura - Clinical Psychologist and founder of NeuroNest Psychology. I have worked in local NHS psychology services in...
14/06/2025

I’m Laura - Clinical Psychologist and founder of NeuroNest Psychology.

I have worked in local NHS psychology services in the North East of England for 16 years and qualified as a clinical psychologist in 2016. My passion has always been working with people who have brains that work differently. My first NHS role was supporting autistic children who also had severe and profound learning disabilities. I have worked in autism diagnostic services with children, young people and adults. When I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology I wrote my thesis on what is important in therapy for people with learning disabilities. I have published research on the role of carers in therapy, and adapting CBT for people with learning disabilities.

In my private work I have chosen to specialise in working with people of all ages to better understand their neurodivergence - whether that is autism, ADHD or learning difficulties. My mission is to support people to explore how their brains work through specialist neuropsychological assessment and post-diagnostic support. I want to help people, and those around them, to understand how their unique profile of strengths and difficulties translates into everyday life. I believe that everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their full potential, and that good neuropsychological assessment and support can enable this.

If you would like to work with me, you can find me at www.neuronestpsychology.co.uk, at laura@neuronestpsychology.co.uk or on 07946 283716.

Why Do Families Seek a Neurodevelopmental Assessment? Every family has their own story.Sometimes it's a quiet sense that...
04/06/2025

Why Do Families Seek a Neurodevelopmental Assessment?

Every family has their own story.
Sometimes it's a quiet sense that something’s not quite right.

Other times, it's louder—a teacher raising concerns, constant struggles with routines, big emotions, missed milestones, or challenges at school.

But underneath it all, the reason is always the same:
💛 You just want to understand your child better.
💛 You want to know what’s going on beneath the surface.
💛 You want to help them feel happy, confident, and understood.

A neurodevelopmental assessment can bring clarity, insight, and relief. It can help piece together what’s been puzzling you and open the door to the right kind of support.

If you’re wondering whether this might be the right step, know this:
You don’t need to have all the answers before you reach out.
You just need curiosity, care—and the hope that things could feel a little easier.

📩 If you're ready to explore whether an assessment might help, reach out to NeuroNest. We’ll walk with you, at your pace. Find us at info@neuronestpsychology.co.uk and www.neuronestpsychology.co.uk

"Why didn't we we do this sooner?"If I had a pound for every time a parent said this to me, I’d have a very full jar.It’...
03/06/2025

"Why didn't we we do this sooner?"
If I had a pound for every time a parent said this to me, I’d have a very full jar.

It’s one of the most common things I hear from families—often shared with a sigh, a tear, or a voice full of guilt.
But here’s the truth: there’s no “perfect” time to seek an autism or ADHD assessment.

You made the best decisions you could with the information, capacity, and resources you had at the time.
This isn’t an easy decision. It can feel huge, emotional, and uncertain. And it’s ok that it’s taken time.
You’re here now. That matters more than when you started.

At NeuroNest, we understand how heavy this can feel—and we meet you with compassion, understanding, a shared curiosity, and a committment to do our best for your child.

💛 Whether you’re ready to move forward, or just beginning to wonder… you're not alone. Let’s take the next step together, at your pace.

📩 Reach out to NeuroNest to start the journey—whenever you’re ready. Find us at info@neuronestpsychology.co.uk and www.neuronestpsychology.co.uk

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Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE3

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm

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