The person behind Better Being Me
Joanne Hatchard — accredited social worker, family therapist, neurodivergent woman.
Joanne Hatchard is an award-winning neurodivergent therapist, parent, and founder of Better Being Me. With lived experience and a background in social work, she supports late-identified women and neurodivergent families through identity, burnout and the emotional load of everyday life.
Her approach is neuro-affirming and emotionally honest — built on recognition rather than outdated narratives about pushing through. Through BBMe Completely, BBMe Foundations and the Talking Twaddle podcast, she blends therapeutic insight with practical, real-world support.
Neurodivergence is a meaningful, legitimate way of being — not a problem to be managed.
The recognition that changed everything
Joanne was diagnosed dyslexic at 16. Like many neurodivergent women, it wasn’t until much later — through her son’s diagnosis — that the rest of the picture came into focus.
That recognition didn’t just explain the past. It changed what became possible.
Since 2018 she has worked with individuals, families and groups across all ages — helping people build lives that fit how their brains actually work, instead of spending every day recovering from the effort of looking fine.
The numbers that matter
The six values — everything runs through these
Recognition
I am seen
The starting point. Before understanding, before strategy, before change — your experience accurately and compassionately named. The end of the performance and the beginning of something real.
Connection
I am not alone in this
The honest link between your internal patterns and the world around you — and the relief of being in a space where nothing needs translating.
Understanding
Now I can see what’s been happening
Not one tidy answer — perspective. Enough to stop blaming yourself, feel grounded, and keep learning without losing yourself in the search.
Truth
I can finally name it
Seeing your life through the neurodivergent lens and not looking away. You are allowed to bring your needs into the world — and to get it wrong sometimes.
Comfort
I can exist as my full self
Permission. Taking up the same amount of sonic, emotional and physical space as anyone else — big laugh included.
Thrive
My life actually works for me now
Rhythm over rules. A life built around how your brain actually works — sustainable, honest, and yours.
Two ways to start
Join the therapy waitlist — around 8 weeks, worth holding a place. Not ready for 1:1? The free ND Life Alignment Quiz takes five minutes and gives you a clear next step.