About Us
Tessa Morton
Founder, Trainer & Cognitive Behaviour Therapist Author, Autism Specialist and Parent
With over 20 years of experience, Tessa Morton has built a highly successful practice as a trainer, coach, and communication specialist, working with professionals to overcome communication challenges and develop confidence. A qualified Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (CBT) from the University of Worcester and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), she runs a private practice offering post-diagnostic support for autistic individuals and their families.
Tessa’s passion for autism advocacy led her to co-found Act for Autism in 2015, a pioneering organisation dedicated to supporting autistic young people while creating greater awareness within the wider community. She also dedicates her time to voluntary drama and social skills groups, empowering autistic individuals with tools for self-expression and confidence.
Jane Gurnett
Founder, Actor, Teacher Author & Autism Specialist and Parent
Jane Gurnett brings a wealth of experience in performance, education, and autism advocacy. As an actor, she has worked extensively in television and theatre, with notable roles in Dangerfield and Casualty, as well as leading performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, and West End musicals.
Beyond her acting career, Jane is a dedicated drama tutor and mentor, shaping the next generation of performers while also teaching in mainstream education. She holds a BA (Hons) in Theatre Studies, an MA in The Advanced Workings of Shakespeare, and a BPhil in Autism from Birmingham University.
Jane is deeply passionate about ensuring every child has a voice. Through her work with Act for Autism, she develops innovative workshops and strategies that empower autistic individuals and educate the wider community on inclusion and understanding.
I learned about the importance of connecting with autistic students and developing a trusting relationship.
Having attended a workshop run by Jane Gurnett and Tessa Morton for staff in a mainstream school, their professional skills and energy in engaging a group are impressive. Their passion, good sense and respect for pupils and staff underpin all they present. Both have a background in drama and use this to good effect. Their key aim is to enable staff to connect with and understand the emotional state and perspective of pupils with autism, focusing on difference not deficit.
Jane and Tessa work together and intersperse short exercises with discussion very effectively. By the end of the session, the staff had gained ideas on how to understand and connect with pupils with autism and were keen to adapt their practice accordingly.
Our supporters
