The MindfulMama
COLLECTIVE
The MindfulMama
COLLECTIVE
"I believe ADHD isn’t a fault — it starts with the nervous system developing earlier than expected, which means the brain connects and protects itself in unique ways. That’s why ADHD can feel like you’re always on alert, always thinking, always doing — even when it’s exhausting.
But here’s the thing: your brain isn’t working against you, it’s working for you, trying to keep you safe.
Inside the MindfulMama Collective, I’ll never tell you you’re wrong or “making mistakes.” Instead, I’ll help you understand why ADHD feels the way it does, and give you the tools, calm, and accountability to live your life fully — not as someone “broken,” but as a mama with a brain that simply works differently."
My story
Like many people, I was diagnosed with ADHD later in life. It was no surprise that I was different, but I never quite knew why. I had a great childhood—healthy, happy, no big problems. But there were moments that hinted at my neurodivergence. Back in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, there wasn't much awareness outside of the stereotypical "hyperactive boy in class" who everyone avoided.
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I left school with just two GCSEs. I enrolled in college five times—both in person and online—but dropped out for different reasons each time. I didn’t start working full-time until my early 20s when I fell into a care job (which I loved). Still, I was often off sick due to anxiety, boredom, or exhaustion. Monotony was torture. I lived in my head, always planning big futures that changed constantly. I even questioned whether my GP would understand if I opened up about how I felt or just label me as "crazy."
Then I had children.
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They struggled in different ways at school, and I tried my best to support them through difficult meetings with often unhelpful teachers. The emotional toll on both parents and teachers is real.
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Eventually, my eldest daughter suspected she had ADHD. After a GP conversation and a private assessment, she was diagnosed with combined-type ADHD. As I guided her through it, I realised: this was me too. And I was right.
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That diagnosis gave me a sense of purpose. At first, I thought I could help others simply because I "knew ADHD" and had children with it too. But a few books and some time on social media quickly showed me just how complex ADHD really is. It wasn't enough to know my own story—I needed verified, evidence-based knowledge to truly help others. And with ADHD's hereditary nature, I wanted to be equipped to support my children and future grandchildren.
Now a neurodivergent mum of four, three of whom are also neurodivergent. I know the complexities of living with ADHD, autism, and the hormonal rollercoasters of PMDD, PMS, and menopause. And I know how misunderstood these areas can be.
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I’ve learned that ADHD rarely stands alone. It often comes with environmental challenges, co-occurring conditions, and the need for deep self-knowledge. Supporting a child with ADHD requires evolving skills that grow as your child does. And parents often need as much support as their children—especially when overwhelm affects both.
Qualifications:
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Open BSc Hons in Mental Health (just passed Year 2)
Studying modules in Mind & Brain (covering ADHD, Autism, Depression, Dementia) and Biology (nervous system, senses). Next year includes a science project module—of course, I’m focusing on ADHD/Autism and the brain. I’m also exploring critical aspects of UK mental health care. -
HNC in Psychology
Focused on behavioural understanding, belief systems, and how they shape our parenting and personal development. -
Award in ADHD Coaching
Specialising in executive function deficits, understanding how they show up, and how to support people through structured coaching strategies. -
Emotional Intelligence Practitioner
Learning how our emotional brain (the amygdala) often overrides conscious thought—a challenge for many ADHDers whose prefrontal cortex (decision-making centre) struggles to be heard. -
Wellbeing Therapist
With insight into the ego and how it fuels defiance and frustration—especially relevant in ADHD parenting and coaching.
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At 51, I still can’t quite believe how much I’ve achieved. For years, I thought learning "wasn’t for me."
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Now, I’m obsessed with neuroscience, passionate about support, and fully committed to helping both parents and children navigate the world of ADHD with practical knowledge, warmth, and real understanding.
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Why I created The Mindfulmama Collective
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“I created the MindfulMama Collective because I know first-hand how lonely, confusing, and overwhelming ADHD can feel—especially when you’re also raising children, juggling family life, and trying to be everything for everyone. There are plenty of tips and PDFs out there, but what we really need is real support: someone walking beside us, showing us step-by-step, and a safe community where we don’t have to explain ourselves. This membership is my way of giving mamas with ADHD a space to feel understood, encouraged, and guided—without shame, without overwhelm, and with a whole lot of warmth.
It is a place that isn't just for now, or just for when it gets tough, it is a place for all stages and styles of ADHD Mama life."
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Thanks for being here,
Tanya
