A woman with shoulder-length wavy hair, wearing glasses with a light pink frame and a maroon top, smiling in front of a blurred background that suggests an indoor setting.

Hello, I’m Sheila!

(she/her)

I’m an autistic professional with ADHD and unique auditory processing challenges. These experiences shape how I notice barriers, connect patterns, and problem-solve.

Through Sonnauta Solutions LLC, I partner with values-driven organizations to make systems more accessible and inclusive. My background spans accessibility, process optimization, UX design, and coaching. This, combined with my neurodivergent perspective and lived experience, gives me a unique ability to turn complexity into clear, practical solutions.

I also coach neurodivergent adults through a local nonprofit. As a coach, I help clients build strengths-based solutions that respect their processing style and personal values.

At the heart of all this work is a commitment to connection, inclusion, and access for all.

An astronaut standing in the snow

My training path is intentionally non-traditional.

Many professional development programs aren’t yet designed to be accessible, neurodiversity-affirming, or grounded in lived experience. Because of this gap, I’ve chosen a different approach:

  • Neurodiversity-specific learning: In-depth training from credible sources, led by people with lived experience

  • Advocacy and practice: Hands-on experience through advocacy, volunteering, and systems-change work

  • Core skills: Affordable programs that strengthen both consulting and coaching fundamentals

I’m endlessly curious, and lifelong learning is one of my special interests. I continue to pursue training that expands my expertise as a consultant, while keeping me connected to my coaching foundation.

This approach keeps my education both practical and responsive - allowing me to prioritize the real needs of the organizations and individuals I support.

  • Professional Diploma in UX Design, UX Design Institute

    B.A. in Psychology, St. Edward’s University

    Certified Productivity Coach, Transformation Academy

    Certified Professional Workshop Facilitator, Transformation Academy

    ADDITIONAL TRAINING

    Autism in the Workplace

    Hiring & Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace

  • Master Coaching Certifications: Empowerment, Self-Care & Boundaries - Transformation Academy

    Coaching Certifications: Productivity, Confidence, People Pleaser - Transformation Academy

    Autism Direct Support Certification - Autism Society of Minnesota

    PDA Level 1 Training - PDA North America (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy)

    Trauma-Informed Certification for Coaches - The Centre for Healing

    Forming Love Around Autistic People to Prevent Suicide - The University of Utah in partnership with AASPIRE (Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research & Education)

    Certified Relationship Workshop Facilitator - Transformation Academy

    Certified Neurodiverse Sexuality Aware Professional - Advanced Mental Health Training Institute

    ADDITIONAL TRAINING

    • Ethical Issues in Neurodiversity Coaching

    • Gender & Neurodiversity in Coaching

    • Working with Neurodivergence and Overwhelm

    • Understanding Autistic Anxiety: A Strengths-Based Perspective

    • PDA: Persistent Demand for Autonomy

    • Exploring Neuroqueer Identities

    • Annual Minnesota Autism Conference (2024 & 2025) - 20+ hours of continuing education each year, approved by multiple Minnesota state boards (Behavioral Health & Therapy, School Administrators, Social Work, etc.)

  • Board Member, Autism Society of Minnesota

    Community of Practice Member, Lifeworks Community Access Improvement Plan

  • I am currently pursuing training opportunities to prepare for the following certification exams:

    • Associate Google Workspace Administrator Certification

    • CPACC: Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC)

Master Empowerment Life Coach Badge
UX Design Professional Diploma Badge
Master Self-Care & Boundaries Coach Badge

Recent Blog Posts

What Clients are Saying

  • "Sheila's ability to listen deeply and tailor her advice to my unique needs has been transformative. Her dedication to continuously learning and exploring new subjects to support my journey is truly remarkable."

  • "Sheila’s understanding of neurodivergent individuals, patience, & direct yet kind approach have been invaluable. Her ability to naturally set boundaries and share insightful ideas has greatly supported my growth."

  • "Sheila’s firsthand experience as a neurodivergent adult uniquely equips her to create intuitive, personalized plans that help me achieve my goals and priorities."

  • "Sheila consistently provides resources and tools that help me understand my disability better."

  • "In addition to her empathetic nature, Sheila's skills as a life coach are exceptional. She is adept at creating actionable plans and providing clear, practical guidance."

  • "Her innovative coaching methods have driven real-life results, propelling me further and faster than ever before. Every opportunity to work with Sheila is something I genuinely look forward to."

  • "I'm filled with a new kind of hope that [my neurodivergent loved one] will acquire skills that will help them feel purposeful, fulfilled, and connected, and that we, their family and those who love them, will grow in our capacity to understand and support them."

  • "What I like about coaching is being understood. I've learned that being an individual is not a bad thing. If we were all the same, life would be boring! Seeing the world like I do is a gift, not a disability. We all see the world in our own way. I turned those so-called 'disabilities' into strengths."

  • "I'm learning so much about how [my neurodivergent loved one] sees the world; and the opportunities for conversation between us-as well as our enhanced vocabulary for what's going on-are gifts beyond measure."

  • "Sheila is truly a gem, and I am incredibly grateful for her support."

  • "Sheila is compassionate, extremely knowledgeable, and keenly insightful."

  • "I've learned a lot about myself just by talking to someone that is trying to help make my life more of an adventure, instead of being stuck and contemplating what I don't have. This program has made me open up to new ideas and find meaningful relationships."

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