Axia ASD

Dr Linda Buchan

Consultant Clinical Psychologist,
Clinical Governance Lead,
Founder and Director of Axia ASD Ltd.

My name is Dr Linda Buchan. I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, qualified since 1978.

Axia-ASD Ltd is one of the top providers of services for adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We use a model of partnership to ensure that individuals and families lead the process, and therefore obtain the most accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate individual support. I am a member of the Axia Collective.

Calvin Atkinson

Director of Axia ASD Ltd.
Self-proclaimed Nerd Consultant
and Head of Axia’s Film Society.

Calvin Atkinson is co-director of Axia, along with Dr Buchan. He is a member of our Senior Management Team, and is also a member of the Axia Collective. This is a subgroup of the Axia team, made up of members representing Psychology, IT/Website, Senior Management and the Anime Amigos (detailed below). The Axia Collective includes neurodiverse individuals and acts as a focus group when discussing changes such as updated resources or new ways of working.

Calvin is our Self-Proclaimed Nerd Consultant, adopting the title to stress the importance of valuing interests. One interest is reflected in the first book that he has written: The Nerd Consultant’s Guide to Anime. Anime is also celebrated via our Anime Amigos who vlog every month, posting the vlogs to our website and Calvin’s YouTube channel.

We connect with individuals post-diagnostically in a number of ways, including our Post Diagnostic Support Group, which both directors regularly attend, and also fortnightly game streaming on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a fun way to connect informally with us.

Calvin is head of the Film Society and regularly posts film reviews and, along with the Anime Amigos, also posts regular game reviews covering a range of genres.

Calvin’s other passions include cooking and heavy metal music.

Cath Williams

Office Manager

I’m Cath, the Office Manager at Axia.

I’ve worked in the administration team since December 2020. Previously I had worked as a Legal Secretary for 20 years so Axia was a very different environment than I was used to.

My role is to provide support for guests from their initial contact with Axia through to possible assessment and diagnosis. We aim to give support and assistance to people and their families during this process to make sure everyone is comfortable and supported during their time with us.

Working at Axia has taught me about neurodiversity and what it means for people. Axia encourage us with training and new skills so we are constantly learning which makes my job interesting and also a little challenging which I love.

When I’m not at work I have a busy family life and I like to read, listen to music, swim and getting out in the fresh air.

Abi Hodgson

Audio Typist

My name is Abi, and I am Axia’s typist.  I work closely with the diagnosticians to ensure your reports are accurate and truly reflect everyone’s unique personalities.  It’s great to be able to contribute to giving people answers and ensuring they can go on to live life in their most authentic way.

In my spare time I love spending time with my cat, drag queens, baking, horror movies and rock music.

Clare Saunders

Audio Typist

Hi, I’m Clare! I do some typing from home for Calvin’s film and gaming reviews. When I’m not typing, I’m either drawing or watching sitcoms! I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Illustration and I hope to create a sci-fi graphic novel one day.

Mel Crimes

Administrative Assistant

I’m Mel, I joined the administration team in September 2025. Previously I worked in banking, so this is a vastly different field for me, but I’ve always enjoyed roles where I can support people and love being part of the caring and supportive team at Axia. I’m developing my knowledge and understanding of neurodiversity every day at Axia to help support our guests and their families. This has been an amazing opportunity for me, having neurodivergent family members myself.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, catching up with friends, eating out, and watching films. I enjoy crafting, usually having way too many projects on the got at once! I can often be found curled up with a good book enjoying cuddles with our two cats, Billy and Belle, on their terms of course!

Alex Teece-Millington

Assessment Support Manager and Deputy Safeguarding Lead

Hi, my name is Alexandra but please call me Alex. I have worked here at Axia since 2022. I am the Assessment Services Manager which means I manage and support the diagnosticians and the support team.

In my free time I enjoy engaging in my special interests, spending time with my family, going on long walks and having puggy snuggys from my dog, a pug called Pixie.

Hannah Pickstock

Assessment Support Assistant

Hello, I’m Hannah!

Hi I’m Hannah! I work in the assessment support team, I also manage Axia’s Social Media accounts.

I am passionate about helping people and before I worked for Axia I was working for the NHS. I have experience working with people from all different backgrounds, supporting them with their mental health, housing, employment, and finances.

I myself got diagnosed through Axia with Autism before I joined the team, and my little boy is also neurodivergent. It is amazing to work in such an understanding, and supportive environment.

In my personal life I am happiest being at home with my head in a good book! Or spending time with my family.

Andy Boland

Assessment Support Assistant

Hi, I’m Andy. 

I joined Axia in August 2026 and I’m part of the Assessment Support Team. Even after such a short period of time at Axia, I feel privileged to be part of a wonderful, caring, empathetic and understanding family-run company which prides itself in delivering the right outcomes for its guests. Having been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, finding somewhere to work that allows me to be myself and work on various challenging and engaging tasks whilst also feeling supported has been hard, but Axia ticks all those boxes.

My background is in learning and development in the financial services industry and I’m a qualified teacher of secondary mathematics. In my spare time when I’m not learning Norwegian (Hvordan går det?), I enjoy mobile gaming (Squid Game: Unleashed being a firm favourite), going to metal gigs and festivals (WACKENNNNN \m/,), bingeing comedy and thriller series (The Office, Brooklyn Nine Nine, Squid Game and The Handmaid’s Tale being firm favourites), travelling the world (Australia, New Zealand and Norway have my heart) and socialising with friends while sampling as many beers and delicious vegan foods as possible.

Katie Montague

Administrative Assistant to Assessment Support Team

Hello! I’m Katie, the administrative assistant to the Assessment Support Team, and joined Axia in September 2025. I’ve always enjoyed supporting people in my working roles, and before this I have worked in NHS talking therapies and for charity helplines offering a listening ear to people and emotional support. I have neurodivergent friends and family members so it is great to have the opportunity to learn more here, and be part of such a lovely team.

In my spare time, I love getting out for walks in the countryside and nature spotting. I have two little dogs, called Carlos and Juanita, who love lots of cuddles and games of fetch! I also love music, knitting and sewing my own clothes.

Frankie Kitson

Support Team Assistant Manager

Hiya I am Frankie :),

Recently started working for Axia October 2025. I work with the amazing support team, to which I offer support for the diagnosticians within the assessments they carry out. My main background is childcare. I love what Axia stands for, I enjoy being part of the team from helping guests with their DHQ’s to making the children feel at ease during the assessment by playing games and toys with them.

I have had the chance to travel around the world from seeing parts of Southeast Asia, Bali, New Zealand – where I treated myself to a sky dive, which was amazing! And I was lucky enough to see the Lord of The Rings set! Ended my travels in Australia, to where I carried out my 88 days of fruit picking – Lemons, to obtain my second visa, which I very much loved, met so many cool fantastic people!

In my spare time I enjoy catching up with friends weather that is having brunch together or on a long walk. I also love being creative and enjoy upcycling and decoupage. I enjoy spending time with my family on weekends away.

Dr Hannah Williamson

Neurodevelopmental Diagnostician

Hi! My name is Hannah. I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist from the University of Liverpool in 2018. During my doctorate I did a specialist placement with Axia and I have been very passionate about remaining part of Axia ever since. I am proud to be part of a team that has such a strengths-based and person-centred approach to assessments and support.

I have specialist interests in Neurodivergence and also Learning/Intellectual Disabilities. I also have a strong interest in psychological trauma and how this is experienced by, and presents, for neurodivergent individuals. I work for Axia part-time, and I also work in the NHS part-time in a Medical Psychology (health psychology) service. I have loved developing and sharing my knowledge about the physical health needs of neurodivergent people there, and being an advocate for improving services for neurodivergent people in healthcare.

Renwick Bromiley

Neurodevelopmental Diagnostician

I’m Renwick Bromiley (please call me Ren), one of Axia’s diagnosticians and a member of the Anime Amigos. I am an ADHDer and also have Irlen Syndrome.

I am a ginormous and unrepentant nerd. Magic: The Gathering has been a long-term fixture in my life, alongside Warhammer (Fantasy and The Old World), Dungeons & Dragons, tonnes of video games, and countless anime. I am also fanatical about Karate (I practice Shotokan), but appreciate martial arts in all its forms. About any of the above, I am always thrilled to wax lyrical – likewise, I love to hear about other people’s passions, hobbies, fascinations, and everything in between.

I joined Axia in 2017, first helping out with administration before joining the diagnostician team. I achieved my degree in Mental Health Nursing from Bangor University in 2021, which provided invaluable experience of treatment in acute care settings, throughout my studies and in subsequent practice. I became a full-time diagnostician at Axia a few years back and adore the role.

Having seen Axia evolve and change over the years, I’m very proud that the importance of people’s special interests remains at the heart of the heart our ethos. Nowhere is this felt more (in my biased view) than in the assessment process, a fact about which I am immensely proud.

Zhenya Budarahina

Neurodevelopmental Diagnostician

Hi, I am Zhenya, originally a linguist from Ukraine, now a UK-qualified occupational therapist. After finishing my first degree, I took a gap year volunteering with neurodivergent individuals and people with learning disabilities in Poland. This has inspired my passion for working within the neurodevelopmental field and journey to getting my master’s in the UK. I have also since been diagnosed autistic myself.

I am qualified in the use of ADOS-2 and DIVA, as well as trained to deliver CBIT. As an occupational therapist, I am also trained to assess your engagement in daily living activities, as well as understand your function and needs within the context of your environment. I always keep on top of my professional development, making sure my practice remains up-to-date and grounded in evidence. 

I greatly value self-expression, autonomy, empowerment, and just letting people come as they are. I am inspired by encouraging and supporting others, so enjoy creating the environments in which people feel they can be their true selves. I love to hear people talk about their passions and things they find interesting – I think this is the most beautiful thing one can do.

Outside of work, I am busy trying to keep track of my countless hobbies and fit them into my life! I am obsessed with all things creativity, crafts, art, and music. I am also a huge video-games fan and board-games nerd. I’ve also got two cats, Mulan and Irys, who occupy the rest of my spare time and attention.

David Reiser

Neurodevelopmental Diagnostician

David qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist in 1985 but got the computer bug in the final year of the degree and started a career in IT for the next 18 years! However, memories of the fascination he held with his original degree subject drew him back into the profession in 2004 when he joined Cheshire NHS Trust as a Therapist. Over the next 8 years he worked in the paediatric department running clinics, working in schools, special schools and nurseries during which time he developed a particular interest in Early Years and the presentation of neurodevelopmental difficulties such as autism and ADHD.

On leaving the NHS in 2012, he started his own practise being engaged by educational settings and individual clients and also focusing on identification, support and training in the area of autism spectrum conditions often working in partnership with other professionals in the field. He is a member of the National Autistic Society and accredited by The Society (Lorna Wing Centre) to use the DISCO autism diagnostic methodology. In addition, he is qualified in use of the ADOS-2 and the ADI-R diagnostic instruments. He is a founding Trustee and now volunteer for Autism Inclusive. He is an ELKLAN, ICAN and Hanen tutor and regularly provides training in the areas of autism, speech, language and communication, in educational settings and for parents.

Ellie Whittaker

Assistant Psychologist

Hello, I’m Ellie!

I’ve recently joined Axia as an Assistant Psychologist. I have a BA in Applied Psychology and Criminology from Brighton, and an MSc in Forensic Psychology from Manchester Metropolitan University.

I have 6 years of clinical experience working across supported accommodations, outreach/reintegration support for female offenders having traits of/a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD), a senior support worker in a residential children’s home, and most recently a project worker in a harm reduction service for men who were alcohol dependent. Despite the different settings and clients, there’s a common theme throughout… if someone’s needs aren’t met, and correct diagnoses aren’t formed, it’s not only incredibly detrimental, but they can be labelled and pushed into a life they wouldn’t have chosen if the correct support was there.

It’s so important to help someone understand their brain, so they can manage their emotions/day to day life and form their identity. I hope to help our guests do just that!

In my spare time I enjoy going for walks and to the gym, watching football (West Ham if I’m with my dad, Liverpool if I’m with my partner), continuing my yearlong streak on Duolingo, and spending time with my partner, family, and friends

Julia

Neurodevelopmental Diagnostician

Hi, I’m Julia and I am a neurodevelopmental diagnostician here at Axia. I have a BSc in Applied Psychology and an MSc in Forensic Psychology. I qualified as a Forensic Psychologist in 2007.

Since qualifying, I have spent many years working in the prison & probation service, most recently within the personality disorder pathway. I have also worked for a specialist substance misuse service, providing trauma therapy to individuals with symptoms of PTSD. Most recently, I have been working in a hospital and residential care home setting with individuals diagnosed with a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health problems and/or personality disorder. I am trained in ADOS-2 and ADI-R, as well as in undertaking cognitive and forensic risk assessments. I feel it is so important to fully recognise each person as an individual, providing them the time, space and support to share their relevant past experiences, challenges, interests and passions.

When not in work, I can be found volunteering for a local dog rescue charity, undertaking home checks and arranging transport to new adopters or foster homes. I have one lovely Labrador but would have a house full if my family would let me! I also love taking part in quizzes and have a season ticket at Manchester City, alongside my dad. I also enjoy travelling and got married on a sunny beach in Sydney

Ian Knowles

Neurodevelopmental Diagnostician

HI I’m ian – A physiotherapist with 24 years of NHS experience helping people understand, manage and musculoskeletal problems. Now working within the Axia team here at Axia to specialize in Neurodevelopmental assessment and diagnosis.

I’m an Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist and independent Prescriber, which means I can assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including prescribing medication and injection therapy where appropriate. No unnecessary referrals, no long waits, just expert care tailored to you.

Over my career I have worked across MSK, neurology surgery and neuro rehabilitation, respiratory, orthopedics, elderly medicine, Mental health rehabilitation, hydrotherapy , sports rehabilitation and through primary care. I have a masters degree in Advanced Physiotherapy practice and I believe in honest conversations, evidence based treatment and giving you the tools to stay well long term

I look forward to meeting you – whatever brought you here, lets work it out together.

Dr Maria Daves

Consultant Counselling Psychologist and ADHD Coach 
BSc (Hons), MSc, MA, DCounsPsy, CPsychol 

I am a Consultant Counselling Psychologist and ADHD Coach and work part time with Axia-ASD. I have extensive experience supporting neurodivergent people and people experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties. I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Psychological Society (BPS). I offer online sessions for adults.

How I work with you:

I want to understand your experiences in your own words, including your strengths, the difficulties you face and what you would like to change. Autistic people and people with ADHD have different needs and preferences. We will work together to develop an understanding of what is happening for you and what support may help.

My approach draws on several forms of psychological therapy. This allows me to tailor our work to you. Rather than expecting you to know which therapy to choose, we can talk through the options and how they relate to your goals.

Depending on your needs, I may draw on cognitive behavioural therapy, which explores links between thoughts, feelings and actions; compassion focused therapy, which can help with self-criticism; or approaches that explore recurring patterns, relationships and past experiences. I also use techniques from schema therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), where appropriate.

What I can help with:

I provide autism and ADHD diagnostic assessments. These explore your experiences and history in a structured way to help build a clearer understanding of your needs.

My assessment training includes the autism assessment tools DISCO, ADOS and ADI-R. I also use ADHD assessment tools including DIVA, ACE Plus and Conners scales. Where appropriate, I use cognitive assessment to explore patterns in thinking and learning. I can explain what each part involves and how it contributes to understanding your experiences.

I also individual psychological support people with anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulties understanding or managing emotions, relationship difficulties and the effects of past trauma. I also work with people experiencing periods of stress, significant life changes or longstanding emotional difficulties.

I have a particular interest in the experiences of neurodivergent women, and in how neurodivergence interacts with health, identity and different stages of life. Your circumstances and priorities will guide our work

Reece Imiolek

Anime Amigo and Nerd Consultant

After first being referred to Axia in July 2015, I was diagnosed by Dr Linda Buchan with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Dyspraxia when I was 21.

Since my diagnosis I joined the Post Diagnosis Support Group run by Axia and got to meet the wonderful staff as well as “The Nerd Consultant” Calvin Atkinson, where after we discovered we were both passionate about Anime.

After much deliberation on how we could use our shared interest to benefit Axia, Calvin and I decided to found the Anime Amigos in March 2017 with myself as the co-founder and Calvin as the leader of our sect. Then on an almost monthly basis we have been creating and uploading podcasts based on various topics e.g. Seasonal anime, films and recently Video game conferences with Videogame conferences like Summer Games Fest and Nintendo Directs.

Another part of what I do for Axia is create reviews for new and existing video games (Mainly focusing on Nintendo Switch 2 and Sony PlayStation5).

Apart from the Anime Amigos and video game reviews, I am a member of the Axia Collective, which evolved out of Axia’s “Journal Club” where we reviewed the latest in academic literature relating to Autism Spectrum Disorder and other related topics so we could create our own research.

Also, more recently I have been given more responsibility to now being a Nerd Consultant. Where I can be called in to help consult on an assessment to use my expertise on various pop culture topics to help staff relate to the person receiving the assessment.

Elliot Chapman

Anime Amigo and Nerd Consultant

I started going to the Post Diagnostic Support Groups at 18 after dropping out of college due to anxiety. After over a year of attending I joined the Anime Amigos as a regular co-host.

Since then, I remain the glorious yet mildly annoying jokester of the Anime Amigos and been a co-host of the Professionally Unprofessional podcast (I was even the one who came up with the name). Since 2020 I’ve been writing game reviews for the site, and I joined the Axia Collective where I occasionally bring my insight but mostly tell bad jokes at Calvin’s expense. Most recently, as of 2025 I have been joining Calvin for weekly livestreams, providing commentary and criticism (mostly criticism) to his gameplay

Even more than anime and video games, I’m deeply obsessed with music, mostly all genres of metal and am pretty addicted to seeing bands live. I also have special interests (or as I call them unhealthy obsessions) with fantasy and sci-fi books, Magic the Gathering – exclusively the commander format – and Warhammer 40,000 lore. I have an assistant dog named Ripley who regularly appears at PDSG’s and has been affectionately named “Director of Emotional Support”.

Evie Connor

General Manager

My name is Evie and I have worked at Axia since 2019. I am Axia’s General Manager which means I oversee day-to-day activity and assist with long-term strategic planning for the company. I am Axia’s Caldicott Guardian and a member of the Axia Collective.

Outside of work I love to spend time with my friends and family (usually round a table of good food!), and take my two dogs for lovely walks.

Amy-Louise Buchan

Assistant to General Manager and Safeguarding Lead

Hi, I’ve been with Axia since 2017, starting out as an Admin Assistant. I now work closely with Evie, our General Manager, and I’m also the Deputy Safeguarding Lead and Caldicott Guardian. A big part of my role involves collecting and reporting data for the NHS providers we work with.

I’m part of the Axia Collective and also join in on the social media meetings with the Anime Amigos

Outside of work, I live in Peterborough and enjoy spending time with my family, going on days out, relaxing at home, and going to the Emirates Stadium to watch Arsenal play.

Phil

General Maintenance Operative

Phil is our onsite maintenance man. No job is too big; no job is too small. From watering plants to building rooms Phil does it all.

Debbie

Housekeeper

Debbie is our housekeeper, working alongside her daughter. She spends her days hoovering, manoeuvring and grooving.