About Dr. Clara O’Byrne
Chartered Psychologist & Neurodiversity Advocate
Dr. Clara O’Byrne is a Chartered Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and the British Psychological Society (BPS). She runs a private practice in West Cork, Ireland, specializing in inclusive, neuroaffirming approaches and positive psychology to support families, schools, and communities.
With over 25 years of experience in disability and special education, Clara has worked as a teacher, lecturer, researcher and as NCSE/NBSS advisor to schools. Her career spans residential services for adults with intellectual disabilities, special schools, and alternative education settings for at-risk youth. She is Garda vetted and a registered teacher with Teaching Council of Ireland at primary and post-primary level.
Clara holds multiple degrees in Psychology and Education. She was awarded a Department of Children and Youth Affairs Research Scholarship, and has been published in a number of peer-reviewed journals and is cited regularly.
Clara’s work is deeply informed by her lived experience as a neurodivergent practitioner navigating physical disability, chronic illness, and additional educational needs. This dual perspective, professional and personal, enables her to create authentic, empowering spaces for families and learners.
Clara’s practice focuses on:
- Parent and family wellbeing
- Post-diagnosis support for autistic teens and adults
- Coaching for health and wellbeing
- Inclusive and neuro-affirming practices in education
Clara is passionate about the power of language to shape belonging, identity, and wellbeing. She advocates for affirming language and strength-based approaches to foster inclusive school culture and promote self-efficacy among neurodivergent learners.
As a popular webinar speaker and trainer, Clara is known for her engaging, compassionate delivery balanced with practical insights. Her research and practice are grounded in positive psychology
principles, emphasizing resilience, belonging, and human potential.
Her recent chapter in It Takes All Kinds of Minds (Routledge, 2026) explores the transformative potential of neuro-affirming education through a positive psychology lens, highlighting the importance of identity, belonging, and self-efficacy.
Qualifications: PhD., M.Sc., M.ED., M.Phil., B.Sc., B.A., H.Dip.Ed.
