How can digital services better meet people’s needs? At Lateral Patterns, a collective of experts and activists, we use qualitative research to study behaviours and experiences, helping decision-makers create better services for everyone. We also train and coach your staff to improve their skills.
Better Services for Everyone
Understanding People, Behaviours and Needs

Hi, I’m Ayhan, Founder and Director of Lateral Patterns LTD. I consult organisations like HMRC, the Ministry of Justice, and the UK Cabinet Office, specifically Government Digital Services (GDS), to improve how the public engages with digital services.
As a full clinical member of the UK Council for Psychotherapy, I specialise in trauma-informed research. I combine service standards expertise with a deep understanding of trauma to contribute to projects that make a real difference in people’s lives.
About Lateral Patterns:
Our Track Record & Values
Curious about how we tackle complex challenges? Our case studies highlight our core values: Community, Curiosity, Collaboration, Creativity, and Commitment.
Our Partnerships
Partnering with us is more than just collaboration—it’s about combining our passion and expertise to achieve great things together.
Our Founder Ayhan Alman
The founder of Lateral Patterns, Ayhan Alman, thrives at the intersection of clinical work and research. His creativity drives trauma-informed, unconventional solutions.
Training & Development:
Training on Trauma-Sensitive Research
Are your trauma-informed techniques up to date? Our trainers bring clinical insights into the effects of trauma and how it can impact your research. We create specific training sessions that suit the needs of your teams.
Clinincal Supervision in Non-Clinical Research Settings
Did you know that clinical supervision is essential in non-clinical research settings where there’s a risk of encountering traumatised participants? At Lateral Patterns, we offer trauma-informed supervision to support your research.
Workplace Strategy Coaching
If you’re focused on improving retention and the quality of work among neurodivergent employees—such as those with dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, Autism, or PTSD—consider exploring workplace strategy coaching.
Projects & Publications:

A Practical Guide to Trauma-Sensitive Research
Integrating Trauma-Informed Frameworks into the Qualitative Research Lifecycle
This book is now available and brings together key themes in qualitative research, trauma and artificial intelligence. Visit the Routledge website for more details.

Queering Gestalt Therapy:
An Anthology on Gender, Sex & Relationship Diversity in Psychotherapy
Ayhan is the co-editor and co-author of “Queering Gestalt Therapy – An Anthology on Gender, Sex & Relationship Diversity in Psychotherapy“, available now on Routledge.

DNA of AI: Minds, Bodies and Bonds
Podcast hosted by Femma Ashraf and Ayhan Alman
A podcast focused on the impact of Artificial Intelligence in our lives. Discussions range from AI in cancer diagnosis to the challenges of human-AI interaction and biases in AI systems.