Research
Here at Evolve International Skills & Research Academy we are invested in producing high quality research, always with the aim of bettering the lives of neurodivergent people at the heart of it.
Our research projects
We are a team of expert clinicians who collectively have worked in the field of neurodiversity for many years. Our research is always aimed at bettering the lives of neurodivergent people.
We are proud to be both practitioners and researchers, ensuring our learning experiences are always grounded in the latest evidence and the most current understanding of neurodiversity.
Get in touch about our research
Our approach to research
Neurodivergent-led
Our research is always developed with input from neurodivergent individuals, ensuring lived experience is at the heart of every project.
Evidence-based
All our training and resources are grounded in robust, peer-reviewed research, ensuring the highest quality learning experiences.
Impactful
We are committed to translating research into practical tools that create real, meaningful change in schools, workplaces, and homes.
The people behind the research
Our research team
Our courses and modules are developed by qualified clinicians and researchers with decades of experience. This is who creates your learning experience.
BSc (Hons) Psychology, DClinPsy, PG Dip CAT, HCPC
Dr Laura Powling
CEO & Founder, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, and it is important to me to continue working as part of the team day-to-day, even as we grow. Alongside leading the business, I work across multiple areas of our practice, including neurodevelopmental assessments for children, young people and adults. I also oversee and undertake assessments for the expert witness service, assisting parole boards and legal teams.
BSc (Hons) SaLT, MRCSLT
Kate Crawford-Blake
Head of Training, Research and Development
Kate is a Senior Specialist Neurodevelopmental Practitioner and Speech and Language Therapist (SaLT) with over 25 years of experience working with neurodivergent children and adults. Her career has been dedicated to improving outcomes for people who think and experience the world differently.
DClinPsy
Dr Rachel Crabbe
Clinical Psychologist
I am a clinical psychologist and systemic practitioner. My work includes offering neurodevelopmental assessments for children and adults, as well as offering supervision to other members of the team. I am passionate about neurodiversity and working with young people, their families, and systems around them. As well as trauma informed care and adapting psychological approaches so that these can always be accessed in a meaningful way by all.
DClinPsy, PhD
Dr Emma Knowles
Consultant Clinical Psychologist
I have always had a keen interest in research and as a clinician, I recognise the importance of basing clinical practice on a strong evidence and research base. Before training to be a Clinical Psychologist, I completed a PhD which explored different factors impacting children's reading development, including social, emotional and behavioural influences. Whilst training to be a Clinical Psychologist, I completed research exploring parental wellbeing for children with a rare genetic disorder. I am keen to continue contributing to research, particularly in the area of neurodivergence, which is my area of clinical expertise. I am also excited to contribute to training around neurodivergence for neurodivergent people, families, and other clinicians and services.
DClinPsy
Dr Jenny Perry
Consultant Clinical Psychologist
During my career, I have worked with neurodivergent children and young people of all ages. I have a longstanding passion for supporting neurodivergent individuals. Developing training and resources for Evolve Skills Academy is a great opportunity to share my knowledge and experience as a consultant clinical psychologist, and to connect with my creative side! It is great to be part of a team that offers high-quality training to so many people.
What our learners say
"There was clear and concise guidance all the way through the module, from setting up the account with the use of clear links and direction to the module of my choice. I found the process easy to follow and made for a smooth experience. The module videos were colourful and uncomplicated to understand and followed by interactive quizzes. The quizzes and learning of random facts I found were very engaging and I have learnt many new things on the history of neurodivergence!"
Client
"This informative course was clear and concise. Amongst so much noise on social media, this cut through with facts, real life people and experts, so I feel I have a thorough grounding in what my son's ADHD diagnosis may mean over time. It was also easy to pick and up and put down, to work through, as and when I had the time, which was perfect for me."
Client
"I recently had the opportunity to complete the "Introduction to ADHD for Adults" module from Evolve Skills & Research Academy. The module was both engaging and very informative. I particularly enjoyed the interviews with clinicians, who brought real-life experiences and clinical insight to life, from their own journeys. The whole module had a very neuroaffirmative approach, and I felt it was very inclusive in comparison to other resources I have encountered."
Client
Get involved with our research
Interested in contributing to our research or finding out more? We'd love to hear from you.