About me

I am a certified sleep practitioner, trained by Sleep Action (formally Sleep Scotland) and more recently completed the EDS level 6 award in Advanced Paediatric Sleep Practitioner Training (accredited by OCN). I have completed additional training in Trauma and Sleep and am also a trained facilitator for Riding the Rapid’s: Living with Autism or Disability (inc. Teenage Years). Alongside I hold a degree in psychology and level 3 certificate in counselling skills.

I have worked with children and families for over 15 years, so also bring a wealth of experience to my role. Between 2009 – 2019 I worked within the NHS supporting families and children with additional needs. Initially this was in the context of health, though in 2014 I moved into the Childrens Disability Nursing Team where I was able to develop my knowledge and skills in relation to behaviour, continence, and disordered sleep. In this time, I was also fortunate to be able to cross over into the Learning Disability CAMHS team, where I gained further insight into the mental health challenges of young people with additional needs. I also spent a short time widening my experience within a school setting, which enabled me to have insight into all three essential areas of health, education, and social care.

From 2020, I have helped successfully deliver a LA commissioned sleep service. Though working with children with any level of need, my skill set, and area of interest is sleep in neurodivergent children. Cumulatively through all my learning and experience I firmly believe that poor sleep doesn’t have to be part and parcel of having a child with additional needs. Change is possible and the benefits of good quality sleep are far reaching, not only for the child, but the whole family.

Jo,

Trafford@sleepandtherapyservices.co.uk

BSc (Hons) Psychology