NMH – Specialist Mentor – ASD

Specialist 1:1 Support for Neurodivergent Students at University

At Towers Coaching, we are proud to provide qualified Non-Medical Helper (NMH) support in the role of Specialist Mentor – ASD, working with university students who are autistic and funded through Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA).

Our role is to offer consistent, practical, and emotional support to help autistic students thrive in higher education, both academically and personally. We understand the challenges that come with transitioning to university life, and we provide a calm, structured, and supportive space to build confidence, reduce overwhelm, and create sustainable routines.

What Is a Specialist Mentor?

As defined by the DSA, a Specialist Mentor – ASD provides highly individualised support for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This includes students who are formally diagnosed and eligible for DSA funding.

The role of the mentor is not to offer academic tuition or therapy, but to provide structured mentoring that helps you manage the social, emotional, and practical impacts of autism while studying at university.

At Towers Coaching, this support is delivered by a qualified coach with specialist training in autism and neurodiversity, and with a trauma-informed approach to student support.

Who Can Access NMH Support?

If you are an autistic student in higher education in the UK and have been awarded DSA, you may be entitled to NMH support through a Specialist Mentor – ASD. You do not need to be assessed as having a learning difficulty or mental health condition if your primary diagnosis is autism.

If you’re unsure of whether you are eligible or need help navigating the DSA application process, we’re happy to provide guidance.

How We Support You

Your time at university should be a chance to explore your interests, learn new skills, and gain confidence in your independence. But for autistic students, the demands of university can feel unpredictable, chaotic, or overwhelming.

Our mentoring support is structured, collaborative, and student-centred. Here’s how we help:

Transition & Adjustment Support

  • Support with the move from school or college to university

  • Help understanding and adjusting to university structures, expectations, and timetables

  • Strategies for settling into new environments and routines

Executive Function Support

  • Assistance with planning, prioritising, time management, and organisation

  • Guidance on managing deadlines and reducing academic overwhelm

  • Creating effective, personalised study routines that work with your needs

Social & Communication Support

  • Help navigating group work, communication with tutors, and making social connections

  • Strategies to reduce social anxiety and manage social fatigue

  • Support with self-advocacy and accessing services on campus

Wellbeing & Emotional Regulation

  • Regular 1:1 sessions to talk through worries, manage overwhelm, and prevent burnout

  • Mindfulness, grounding techniques, and stress-reducing strategies

  • Encouragement and support to develop self-care habits

Understanding Autism in the University Context

  • Helping you understand how your autistic identity might impact your learning and living experience

  • Exploring sensory needs, masking, and coping mechanisms

  • Celebrating strengths and supporting challenges

Why Choose Towers Coaching?

Qualified and Experienced NMH Provider
We meet the quality assurance framework set by the DSA for NMH support and bring both lived and professional experience in supporting neurodiverse students.

Trauma-Informed & Student-Led Approach
We listen without judgement and adapt to your communication style, energy levels, and personal preferences.

Continuity of Support
You’ll work with the same mentor consistently, building a relationship of trust and understanding throughout your studies.

Fully Remote or Hybrid Options Available
Support can be delivered online or in a hybrid format, depending on your preference and your university’s guidelines.