Autism Counselling in Bristol

Photo of Emmy Lathom, MBACP, Counsellor
Emmy Lathom
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS15
My main areas of expertise include working with complex trauma and individuals with learning difficulties, social-emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), and neurodiversity, such as autism and ADHD.
I am a registered counsellor with the BACP and in the final stages of completing a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. As a neurodivergent therapist, I prioritise creating an accepting space and focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship. I use an integrative approach, drawing on relational psychodynamic, systemic, CBT, and third-wave therapies. I also offer the Rewind Technique for PTSD, this takes two to three sessions and does not require you to disclose any trauma. I work with a variety of clients, including, children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I offer sessions online and outdoors (walk-and-talk).
My main areas of expertise include working with complex trauma and individuals with learning difficulties, social-emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), and neurodiversity, such as autism and ADHD.
I am a registered counsellor with the BACP and in the final stages of completing a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. As a neurodivergent therapist, I prioritise creating an accepting space and focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship. I use an integrative approach, drawing on relational psychodynamic, systemic, CBT, and third-wave therapies. I also offer the Rewind Technique for PTSD, this takes two to three sessions and does not require you to disclose any trauma. I work with a variety of clients, including, children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I offer sessions online and outdoors (walk-and-talk).
0117 463 5217 View 0117 463 5217
Photo of Fiona Clare Hayden, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Fiona Clare Hayden
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
I have alot of knowledge and expertise in ADHD, Autism and Addiction.
I have been a counsellor for nearly ten years and within that time I have an extensive knowledge of most difficulties. I initially trained on placement for 2 years alongside my diploma within the Swan Project they specialise in Addiction and Trauma. I have successfully worked with many clients but not limited to Addiction, Trauma, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA, Childhood sex abuse, Childhood neglect, Domestic violence, Rape, PTSD and Eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with neurodiversity including teenagers as I have my own personal journey and I feel this helps add an extra layer of empathy and understanding.
I have alot of knowledge and expertise in ADHD, Autism and Addiction.
I have been a counsellor for nearly ten years and within that time I have an extensive knowledge of most difficulties. I initially trained on placement for 2 years alongside my diploma within the Swan Project they specialise in Addiction and Trauma. I have successfully worked with many clients but not limited to Addiction, Trauma, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA, Childhood sex abuse, Childhood neglect, Domestic violence, Rape, PTSD and Eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with neurodiversity including teenagers as I have my own personal journey and I feel this helps add an extra layer of empathy and understanding.
0117 463 9258 View 0117 463 9258
Photo of Dr Jessie Gough - Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability. Would you like an assessment for yourself or your child to confirm this? Or maybe you have been newly diagnosed or have traits of ASD, ADHD or Tourette’s and are looking for further information and support. I, and my small team of expert psychologists at Neurodiverseonline, offer diagnostic assessments for adults and children with Autism/ASD, ADHD, Tourette's/Tics, Dyslexia and cognitive assessments (IQ tests) / learning disability assessments.
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability. Would you like an assessment for yourself or your child to confirm this? Or maybe you have been newly diagnosed or have traits of ASD, ADHD or Tourette’s and are looking for further information and support. I, and my small team of expert psychologists at Neurodiverseonline, offer diagnostic assessments for adults and children with Autism/ASD, ADHD, Tourette's/Tics, Dyslexia and cognitive assessments (IQ tests) / learning disability assessments.
0117 463 0477 View 0117 463 0477
Photo of Alison Edwards - Alison Edwards Therapy, Coaching and Supervision, MSc, FMBPsS, Psychologist
Alison Edwards Therapy, Coaching and Supervision
Psychologist, MSc, FMBPsS
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Choosing a therapist can be a stressful process, and it's difficult to decide which kind of therapy to try. Many people find it helpful to work with a therapist who has trained in more than one therapy, who can switch to a different therapy when needed, and who can tailor sessions according to your needs. You can have a phone consultation with me to discuss what you are looking for and ask questions. 16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
Choosing a therapist can be a stressful process, and it's difficult to decide which kind of therapy to try. Many people find it helpful to work with a therapist who has trained in more than one therapy, who can switch to a different therapy when needed, and who can tailor sessions according to your needs. You can have a phone consultation with me to discuss what you are looking for and ask questions. 16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
01392 321135 View 01392 321135
Photo of Catherine Alexander - Red Door Therapy, Psychotherapist
Red Door Therapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
My name is Catherine and I work with children in the early years (0-5 years old) and primary school age (5-11 years old) who struggle with language and communication, have difficulties socialising, struggle to attend school, who may be experiencing developmental delays or are non-verbal, or children diagnosed with Autism. Many of the children I work with are waiting for a diagnosis, however, all children are at different stages so please get in contact if you would like to discuss some specific needs/concerns that you have.
My name is Catherine and I work with children in the early years (0-5 years old) and primary school age (5-11 years old) who struggle with language and communication, have difficulties socialising, struggle to attend school, who may be experiencing developmental delays or are non-verbal, or children diagnosed with Autism. Many of the children I work with are waiting for a diagnosis, however, all children are at different stages so please get in contact if you would like to discuss some specific needs/concerns that you have.
0117 456 2035 View 0117 456 2035
Photo of Sin Yin Janet Yick, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sin Yin Janet Yick
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
My specialties include neurodiversity ( autism and ADHD), sexual and gender diversity, HIV and cross-cultural psychology.
Experiencing difficult emotions in face of life challenges or crisis are often considered as “problems” that make us feel vulnerable, powerless or shameful. Although these "problems" are often natural human experiences, we sometimes struggle with the critical inner voice and have little compassion towards self. Psychotherapy is neither a quick fix of your psychological wounds nor a direct path to happiness. It's a process where you can start connecting with yourself and make sense of your own narrative in a safe and respectful space. The process of relating to a genuine human being itself could be the start of your healing journey.
My specialties include neurodiversity ( autism and ADHD), sexual and gender diversity, HIV and cross-cultural psychology.
Experiencing difficult emotions in face of life challenges or crisis are often considered as “problems” that make us feel vulnerable, powerless or shameful. Although these "problems" are often natural human experiences, we sometimes struggle with the critical inner voice and have little compassion towards self. Psychotherapy is neither a quick fix of your psychological wounds nor a direct path to happiness. It's a process where you can start connecting with yourself and make sense of your own narrative in a safe and respectful space. The process of relating to a genuine human being itself could be the start of your healing journey.
0117 463 3572 View 0117 463 3572
Photo of Natasha Menoni - Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
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Photo of Gary Catterall - The Child Psychiatric & Psychological Consultants, PsychD, ACP, Psychotherapist
The Child Psychiatric & Psychological Consultants
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
We provide medical psychiatric & psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment for Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, gender dysmorphia, eating disorders, tic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, self-harm, psychotic disorders and emotional dysregulation and more. We have over 20 years’ experience working in various CAMHS mental health settings with extensive experience and knowledge. The service is clinically led by a consultant child psychiatrist and a consultant child & adolescent psychoanalytic psychotherapist who both trained in the NHS who have provided clinical leadership for services.
We provide medical psychiatric & psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment for Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, gender dysmorphia, eating disorders, tic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, self-harm, psychotic disorders and emotional dysregulation and more. We have over 20 years’ experience working in various CAMHS mental health settings with extensive experience and knowledge. The service is clinically led by a consultant child psychiatrist and a consultant child & adolescent psychoanalytic psychotherapist who both trained in the NHS who have provided clinical leadership for services.
01452 687104 View 01452 687104
Photo of Abby Jones - Autistic Revolutions @ Talk Feel Grow, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Autistic Revolutions @ Talk Feel Grow
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS3
I'm a psychotherapist specialising in people who have or suspect they may have Autism. Being an Autist in a world designed for Non-Autists brings unique challenges. So on top of whatever standard life struggles and events which might bring a person to therapy, there's often a history of traumatic social exclusion/rejection. Which logically results in a baseline of anxiety, depression, exhaustion, often isolation and low self-esteem. I aim to find out about your particular struggles and strengths. Then together we work out how to tell the difference between the things we need to work around and the things we might be able to change.
I'm a psychotherapist specialising in people who have or suspect they may have Autism. Being an Autist in a world designed for Non-Autists brings unique challenges. So on top of whatever standard life struggles and events which might bring a person to therapy, there's often a history of traumatic social exclusion/rejection. Which logically results in a baseline of anxiety, depression, exhaustion, often isolation and low self-esteem. I aim to find out about your particular struggles and strengths. Then together we work out how to tell the difference between the things we need to work around and the things we might be able to change.
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Photo of Anna Faff, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
Anna Faff
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I specialised in Autism in Adults, attachment disorder and trauma.
I am a psychotherapist on the spectrum with ADHD. I have been late diagnosed so I can relate to NT and ND. I understand how life-changing could be for anyone to be diagnosed with Autism. I am helping people who are experiencing detachment, unexplained pain, and lack of stability. Along with high levels of emotional distress, mood difficulties, shame, guilt, difficulties with self-esteem and difficulties in life in general. I offer a non-judgemental, welcoming space where you can find your own solutions and paths that would lead you to growth and building resilience.
I specialised in Autism in Adults, attachment disorder and trauma.
I am a psychotherapist on the spectrum with ADHD. I have been late diagnosed so I can relate to NT and ND. I understand how life-changing could be for anyone to be diagnosed with Autism. I am helping people who are experiencing detachment, unexplained pain, and lack of stability. Along with high levels of emotional distress, mood difficulties, shame, guilt, difficulties with self-esteem and difficulties in life in general. I offer a non-judgemental, welcoming space where you can find your own solutions and paths that would lead you to growth and building resilience.
0161 524 0507 View 0161 524 0507
Photo of Richard Neil Papworth, MBACP, Counsellor
Richard Neil Papworth
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
I offer help with stress, depression, anxiety, and feelings of being angry, upset, stuck, or confused, and have a particular interest in making my practice autism-friendly.
Psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling has a distinct focus on events which have troubled us in the past, although we might not have awareness of them, and continue to trouble us in the present often through repeated patterns. There might not be any defined areas of concern for clients, and issues can be deep-seated; however, the therapeutic relationship aims to bring these aspects into consciousness in a manageable way so that they may be worked through safely. While psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling is often open-ended and can span several years, short courses of six months or less have also shown to be effective.
I offer help with stress, depression, anxiety, and feelings of being angry, upset, stuck, or confused, and have a particular interest in making my practice autism-friendly.
Psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling has a distinct focus on events which have troubled us in the past, although we might not have awareness of them, and continue to trouble us in the present often through repeated patterns. There might not be any defined areas of concern for clients, and issues can be deep-seated; however, the therapeutic relationship aims to bring these aspects into consciousness in a manageable way so that they may be worked through safely. While psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling is often open-ended and can span several years, short courses of six months or less have also shown to be effective.
023 8144 0269 View 023 8144 0269
Photo of Tania Thorn - Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
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Photo of Dr Jeremy Rowe, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jeremy Rowe
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I’m qualified to assess & diagnose autism & ADHD privately and through insurance.
I am a specialist OCD psychologist; I offer Rumination Focused ERP (Dr. Michael Greenberg) for OCD. I treat anxiety, depression & other mental health issues. I assess & diagnose Autism & ADHD. I have extensive experience in supporting people through life events and transitions. I can help with addictions, including pornography. As a Christian psychologist I support those who wish to integrate their faith and mental wellbeing and those who wish to explore their faith and doubts (including scrupulosity). I also work with people other faiths or no faith. I’m registered with all major UK insurers and I'm insured to work internationally.
I’m qualified to assess & diagnose autism & ADHD privately and through insurance.
I am a specialist OCD psychologist; I offer Rumination Focused ERP (Dr. Michael Greenberg) for OCD. I treat anxiety, depression & other mental health issues. I assess & diagnose Autism & ADHD. I have extensive experience in supporting people through life events and transitions. I can help with addictions, including pornography. As a Christian psychologist I support those who wish to integrate their faith and mental wellbeing and those who wish to explore their faith and doubts (including scrupulosity). I also work with people other faiths or no faith. I’m registered with all major UK insurers and I'm insured to work internationally.
01273 099539 View 01273 099539
Photo of Leonora Eddolls, MBACP, Counsellor
Leonora Eddolls
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I have worked as a Relate Counsellor since 2013 specialising in couples, family and individual counselling.   As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.  I completed additional post graduate training to assist me in supporting individuals and couples in understanding the differences in the way the brain operates between neurodivergent and predominant neurotypes with the aim of building better and stronger relationships.
I have worked as a Relate Counsellor since 2013 specialising in couples, family and individual counselling.   As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.  I completed additional post graduate training to assist me in supporting individuals and couples in understanding the differences in the way the brain operates between neurodivergent and predominant neurotypes with the aim of building better and stronger relationships.
01572 494640 View 01572 494640
Photo of Dr Dorothy Szinay, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Dorothy Szinay
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am neurodivergent with ADHD and possibly Autism, so I can relate to the difficulties related to these.
I work with neurodivergent individuals or their loved ones, supporting, improving and changing their lives. You may feel overwhelmed, seeking clarity, understanding and strategies for your unique experiences with ADHD or Autism. Whether struggling with health, emotional regulation, relationships, education or work, or parenting a child with ADHD or Autism, you want tailored support. You may feel that whatever you tried is failing you. You want to find out what works for you or a loved one. You strive for harmony and growth. You want to feel understood, explore practical coping mechanisms, and build resilience.
I am neurodivergent with ADHD and possibly Autism, so I can relate to the difficulties related to these.
I work with neurodivergent individuals or their loved ones, supporting, improving and changing their lives. You may feel overwhelmed, seeking clarity, understanding and strategies for your unique experiences with ADHD or Autism. Whether struggling with health, emotional regulation, relationships, education or work, or parenting a child with ADHD or Autism, you want tailored support. You may feel that whatever you tried is failing you. You want to find out what works for you or a loved one. You strive for harmony and growth. You want to feel understood, explore practical coping mechanisms, and build resilience.
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Photo of Ana Garcia, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Ana Garcia
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bristol BS31
Hi I’m Ana, an accredited CBT Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I have worked in mental health for almost two decades. Are you feeling stuck, lost or finding things difficult to manage? This may include struggling with waiting lists for support or guidance around Autism and/or ADHD? Are you unsure on what direction to go next or what choices to make? I would encourage you to reach out and get in touch with me. I work with a range of mental health difficulties, and I will work with you to help adapt our work to focus on your own individual needs and experiences, supporting you to achieve your goals.
Hi I’m Ana, an accredited CBT Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I have worked in mental health for almost two decades. Are you feeling stuck, lost or finding things difficult to manage? This may include struggling with waiting lists for support or guidance around Autism and/or ADHD? Are you unsure on what direction to go next or what choices to make? I would encourage you to reach out and get in touch with me. I work with a range of mental health difficulties, and I will work with you to help adapt our work to focus on your own individual needs and experiences, supporting you to achieve your goals.
01225 258839 View 01225 258839
Photo of Victoria Staynings, MBACP, Counsellor
Victoria Staynings
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS35
I work with a wide range of clients from the age of 14 years old, I have many years experience specialising in supporting clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism and Trauma.
I work with a wide range of clients from the age of 14 years old, I have many years experience specialising in supporting clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism and Trauma.
0117 463 1284 View 0117 463 1284
Photo of Anna Greenslade (Cbt With Anna), MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Anna Greenslade (Cbt With Anna)
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS8  (Online Only)
Autism or ADHD.
Hey! I'm Anna, a CBT Therapist specialised in children, pre-teens, adolescents and young adults; ages 5-25. I treat anxiety (social, health, separation, phobias, worry, panic, perfectionism), depression, self esteem, OCD and PTSD / trauma. I help with emotions such as stress, sadness and anger; and self harm, suicidal thoughts and intrusive thoughts. I have 10 years experience across; school, college and university student wellbeing, NHS (CAMHS), inpatient psychiatric care, SEND support, and mental health therapy organisations. My specialist interests lie within the teenager population, social anxiety, OCD.
Autism or ADHD.
Hey! I'm Anna, a CBT Therapist specialised in children, pre-teens, adolescents and young adults; ages 5-25. I treat anxiety (social, health, separation, phobias, worry, panic, perfectionism), depression, self esteem, OCD and PTSD / trauma. I help with emotions such as stress, sadness and anger; and self harm, suicidal thoughts and intrusive thoughts. I have 10 years experience across; school, college and university student wellbeing, NHS (CAMHS), inpatient psychiatric care, SEND support, and mental health therapy organisations. My specialist interests lie within the teenager population, social anxiety, OCD.
0117 463 0506 View 0117 463 0506
Photo of Donna Taylor - Horus Wellbeing Contemporary Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Horus Wellbeing Contemporary Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
my style of working is client centric , using evidenced-based contemporary approaches working with trauma, attachment, autism, adhd, fasd, spd among other conditions.
Feeling safety in a complex world is no mean feet. Childhood, historic, or current experiences, interacting/reacting with the complexities brought about by the pandemic, can exhaust any capacity for resilience. maybe you're a parent/carer of children transitioning from the intensity of lockdown to the uncertainty of the easing of restrictions? Is this further complicated by returning to education settings for children with Autism, ADHD, FASD, SPD, trauma and attachment? Maybe you are a foster care or adoptive parent wondering how to rebalance the attachment bond after the intensity of lockdown, recalibrating interfamilial dynamics?
my style of working is client centric , using evidenced-based contemporary approaches working with trauma, attachment, autism, adhd, fasd, spd among other conditions.
Feeling safety in a complex world is no mean feet. Childhood, historic, or current experiences, interacting/reacting with the complexities brought about by the pandemic, can exhaust any capacity for resilience. maybe you're a parent/carer of children transitioning from the intensity of lockdown to the uncertainty of the easing of restrictions? Is this further complicated by returning to education settings for children with Autism, ADHD, FASD, SPD, trauma and attachment? Maybe you are a foster care or adoptive parent wondering how to rebalance the attachment bond after the intensity of lockdown, recalibrating interfamilial dynamics?
01275 402727 View 01275 402727
Photo of Dr Claudia Schmidt, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Claudia Schmidt
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bristol BS9
Waitlist for new clients
Working with parents of children with special needs (SEN) and with partners of people on the autism spectrum.
Sometimes difficulties can have a major impact on our well-being, relationships or work. Maybe friends and family can offer some support but we may also choose to see a qualified and experienced practitioner, who can provide a safe space in which to work with whatever is going on for us. I have a wide range of experience, including working in the NHS, at university as Associate Lecturer (14 years) and in a GP practice as a Lead Therapist and Supervisor, delivering Relational Integrative Therapy. I draw on Psychodynamic and Person-Centred approaches, relational CBT and CFT (Compassion-Focussed Therapy).
Working with parents of children with special needs (SEN) and with partners of people on the autism spectrum.
Sometimes difficulties can have a major impact on our well-being, relationships or work. Maybe friends and family can offer some support but we may also choose to see a qualified and experienced practitioner, who can provide a safe space in which to work with whatever is going on for us. I have a wide range of experience, including working in the NHS, at university as Associate Lecturer (14 years) and in a GP practice as a Lead Therapist and Supervisor, delivering Relational Integrative Therapy. I draw on Psychodynamic and Person-Centred approaches, relational CBT and CFT (Compassion-Focussed Therapy).
0117 463 3058 View 0117 463 3058
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Autism Counsellors

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.