A little about me, and why I started GAC

Carla Reece, Director

GAC is very personal to me. I’m not just a clinician with over 30 years of experience working with neurodivergent children, young people and adults. I’m also a mum of neurodivergent children, and I know first-hand what it’s like to love someone fiercely, worry about getting things right, search for answers and sometimes have to fight for the support they deserve.

I’ve sat on both sides of the table – as a parent hoping someone will really listen, and as a professional helping children, adults and families navigate what can sometimes feel like a complicated journey. Both experiences have shaped the way I work and, ultimately, why I created GAC.

Throughout my career, I’ve been a therapist, advocate, parent educator and champion for neurodivergent people. I’ve worked extensively with schools, colleges and universities, helping individuals access the opportunities and support they need.

Some of the most moving moments in my work have been with children, young people and adults who have never really felt able to share how they experience the world. I’ve seen children surprise their parents with what they finally feel able to express, and adults experience enormous relief as they begin to make sense of a lifetime of experiences. It’s a privilege to be part of those moments.

I’ve always believed in helping people recognise and value their strengths and differences, while acknowledging that some parts of life can be genuinely challenging. My approach is respectful, curious and collaborative – often playful, with plenty of warmth and humour.

That’s why I created GAC.

I wanted to build a place where people of all ages feel comfortable being themselves, where their experiences are taken seriously and where recognising someone’s brain style can open doors rather than create limitations.

Importantly, I never wanted an assessment to be the end of our involvement. What happens afterwards matters just as much – whether that’s working with schools, supporting parents, liaising with universities or helping adults explore what their newfound knowledge means for everyday life.

I wanted to create the kind of service I would have valued myself, combining clinical expertise with kindness, practical support and a genuine personal connection.

I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, and I think our families’ and clients’ reviews speak for themselves. They reflect the care, commitment and personal approach that I hoped would make GAC different.

And that’s still what matters most to me today.