Autism Counselling in Loughton

Photo of Louisa Levy, MBACP, Counsellor
Louisa Levy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Loughton IG10
Louisa appreciates it may feel a little daunting to be here. As a qualified and experienced counsellor she is able to support with a range of issues including bereavement, depression anxiety, relationship difficulties and Autism. While exploring with you difficulties or changes life may present. Her approach is to come alongside you in a non-judgmental and empathic manner to work through these challenges together. In working in a flexible and integrative way we move towards your goals. Sessions are of a 50 minute duration.
Louisa appreciates it may feel a little daunting to be here. As a qualified and experienced counsellor she is able to support with a range of issues including bereavement, depression anxiety, relationship difficulties and Autism. While exploring with you difficulties or changes life may present. Her approach is to come alongside you in a non-judgmental and empathic manner to work through these challenges together. In working in a flexible and integrative way we move towards your goals. Sessions are of a 50 minute duration.
07481 341867 View 07481 341867
Photo of Karen Bolton, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Bolton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Loughton IG10
I value the uniqueness of each individual experience and will tailor my approach to meet you where you are in your life – working with you so that you no longer feel stuck, unhappy or alone, reducing your anxiety, stress or depression and finding ways to make positive changes that improve your self-acceptance, self-esteem and personal confidence. We can work together so that you are able to address difficult past experiences and gain positive ways to manage your future thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I work with people who are neurodivergent, adapting my practice to ensure specific needs of autism and ADHD are met.
I value the uniqueness of each individual experience and will tailor my approach to meet you where you are in your life – working with you so that you no longer feel stuck, unhappy or alone, reducing your anxiety, stress or depression and finding ways to make positive changes that improve your self-acceptance, self-esteem and personal confidence. We can work together so that you are able to address difficult past experiences and gain positive ways to manage your future thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I work with people who are neurodivergent, adapting my practice to ensure specific needs of autism and ADHD are met.
07480 821478 View 07480 821478
Photo of Dr Brittni Jones, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Brittni Jones
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Loughton IG10
I am a Chartered Psychologist, Doctor of Clinical Psychology, and therapist with over 10 years experience in mental health services. With previous NHS experience in a specialist hospital for adults with personality disorders, as well as at Great Ormond Street Hospital and psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults with mental and physical health conditions, I have the knowledge and professional experience to help with a wide variety of difficulties. I offer specialist assessments and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Chartered Psychologist, Doctor of Clinical Psychology, and therapist with over 10 years experience in mental health services. With previous NHS experience in a specialist hospital for adults with personality disorders, as well as at Great Ormond Street Hospital and psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults with mental and physical health conditions, I have the knowledge and professional experience to help with a wide variety of difficulties. I offer specialist assessments and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
020 3872 2631 View 020 3872 2631
Photo of Anthony Mack - Anthony Mack Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Anthony Mack Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loughton IG10
I am an integrative psychotherapist With qualifications in psychodynamic psychoanalytic counselling. C.B.T EMDR and also a senior qualified accredited hypnotherapist . MY practices are easily reached only a few minutes from south woodford station ( central line ) and the Clacton on sea office easily accessible by public transport i offer evening and afternoon appointments i also offer a full range of remote online appointments
I am an integrative psychotherapist With qualifications in psychodynamic psychoanalytic counselling. C.B.T EMDR and also a senior qualified accredited hypnotherapist . MY practices are easily reached only a few minutes from south woodford station ( central line ) and the Clacton on sea office easily accessible by public transport i offer evening and afternoon appointments i also offer a full range of remote online appointments
020 3879 4781 View 020 3879 4781

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of LORNA Aher, MBACP, Counsellor
LORNA Aher
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N17
I specialise in working with people with autism and people who care for and support someone who has autism.
As a person-centred counsellor based in north London, I believe that talking can help us feel less isolated with our problems and thoughts.    Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to family and friends; you may not wish to cause worry or distress or you may not want their advice and opinion. I provide an understanding ,  non-judgemental and safe space where you will be heard and where you can bring issues and concerns that may be preventing you from being who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I offer an initial assessment, which will enable us to see if we connect and whether you feel comfortable within the counsel
I specialise in working with people with autism and people who care for and support someone who has autism.
As a person-centred counsellor based in north London, I believe that talking can help us feel less isolated with our problems and thoughts.    Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to family and friends; you may not wish to cause worry or distress or you may not want their advice and opinion. I provide an understanding ,  non-judgemental and safe space where you will be heard and where you can bring issues and concerns that may be preventing you from being who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I offer an initial assessment, which will enable us to see if we connect and whether you feel comfortable within the counsel
020 8106 2102 View 020 8106 2102
Photo of Rowan Reiss - Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London E18
I provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, utilising gold standard assessment tools, as recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in a national specialist CAMHS trauma service. My work within this team, specialist inpatient and outpatient CAMHS, as well as in adult mental health services, has given me experience in supporting adults, children, and young people with severe and complex mental health difficulties. Through my training I have developed high-level knowledge of the theory and practice of both CBT including CFT, ACT, DBT and trauma-focussed CBT, and systemic approaches. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, utilising gold standard assessment tools, as recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in a national specialist CAMHS trauma service. My work within this team, specialist inpatient and outpatient CAMHS, as well as in adult mental health services, has given me experience in supporting adults, children, and young people with severe and complex mental health difficulties. Through my training I have developed high-level knowledge of the theory and practice of both CBT including CFT, ACT, DBT and trauma-focussed CBT, and systemic approaches. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
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Photo of Raquel Navarro Martinez, MSc
Raquel Navarro Martinez
MSc
Verified Verified
London N5
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence.
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence.
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
020 4538 4677 View 020 4538 4677
Photo of San Vtgotsky Wong, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
San Vtgotsky Wong
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E13
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S.
I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a senior Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, working for children, youth and mental health for more than 19 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric h
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S.
I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a senior Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, working for children, youth and mental health for more than 19 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric h
020 8138 8672 View 020 8138 8672
Photo of Rosemary Gomes, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rosemary Gomes
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N16
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
020 3962 1928 View 020 3962 1928
Photo of Steven Carnaby - Carnaby Autism Support, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Carnaby Autism Support
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N22
At Carnaby Autism Support our skilled and experienced clinician’s offer comprehensive autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults. We remain committed to clinical excellence and quality whilst aiming to provide a service that is neurodiversity affirming. We adhere to all National Institute of Clinical Excellent (NICE) guidelines. We work in ways that aim to nurture positive autistic identity as a central goal. For more information see our website (www.carnabyautismsupport.co.uk)
At Carnaby Autism Support our skilled and experienced clinician’s offer comprehensive autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults. We remain committed to clinical excellence and quality whilst aiming to provide a service that is neurodiversity affirming. We adhere to all National Institute of Clinical Excellent (NICE) guidelines. We work in ways that aim to nurture positive autistic identity as a central goal. For more information see our website (www.carnabyautismsupport.co.uk)
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Photo of Eve Janes, MBACP, Counsellor
Eve Janes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E5  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialise in neurodivergence which includes; ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, epilepsy, bipolar, OCD, tourette's, epilepsy, anxiety and depression amongst others.
Hello and welcome! My name is Eve, I am a neurodivergent support specialist & person-centred therapist. As a therapist, I always aim to be a compassionate facilitator, listening and acknowledging the client's experience without shifting the conversation in another direction, and by being open to experience; being trusting and trustworthy, being curious, creative, and compassionate. I feel this is vital in helping clients feel accepted and better understand their feelings. This approach can help clients reconnect with their inner values and sense of self-worth by enabling them to find their way to move forward and progress.
I also specialise in neurodivergence which includes; ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, epilepsy, bipolar, OCD, tourette's, epilepsy, anxiety and depression amongst others.
Hello and welcome! My name is Eve, I am a neurodivergent support specialist & person-centred therapist. As a therapist, I always aim to be a compassionate facilitator, listening and acknowledging the client's experience without shifting the conversation in another direction, and by being open to experience; being trusting and trustworthy, being curious, creative, and compassionate. I feel this is vital in helping clients feel accepted and better understand their feelings. This approach can help clients reconnect with their inner values and sense of self-worth by enabling them to find their way to move forward and progress.
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Photo of Leonora Eddolls, MBACP, Counsellor
Leonora Eddolls
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E4
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 Jessie Gough - Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London E10
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 Luisa Diaz, MBACP, Counsellor
Luisa Diaz
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N11
I have undertaken additional training and I am listed on the National Autistic Society's Autism Service Directory.
Are you struggling to cope? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions due to recent losses and changes or maybe from the past? Together we can navigate a way through your challenges, from within a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. Working at a pace that’s right for you, we will explore your current difficulties and uncover their relationship to past experiences. My aim is to help you to gain a deeper understanding of your self, your relationships and to strengthen your inner resources, so that you can live your life more fully.
I have undertaken additional training and I am listed on the National Autistic Society's Autism Service Directory.
Are you struggling to cope? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions due to recent losses and changes or maybe from the past? Together we can navigate a way through your challenges, from within a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. Working at a pace that’s right for you, we will explore your current difficulties and uncover their relationship to past experiences. My aim is to help you to gain a deeper understanding of your self, your relationships and to strengthen your inner resources, so that you can live your life more fully.
020 3960 5333 View 020 3960 5333
Photo of Jasmin Khan, BACP, Counsellor
Jasmin Khan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E17
I specialise in ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, as well as culture & identity, grief and bereavement, work issues, and relationships.
I offer integrative therapy, neurodivergence support and cultural sensitivity. I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. That can look like creating change when something feels amiss; uncovering what is underneath when you are feeling stuck or locked into repetitive patterns; exploration and reflection for when you are feeling confused or want to make sense of your experiences; and working with possibilities and finding new motivation, for when you want to focus on growth and strengths. I like to equip you with agency over your own development and share context as to how therapy works.
I specialise in ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, as well as culture & identity, grief and bereavement, work issues, and relationships.
I offer integrative therapy, neurodivergence support and cultural sensitivity. I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. That can look like creating change when something feels amiss; uncovering what is underneath when you are feeling stuck or locked into repetitive patterns; exploration and reflection for when you are feeling confused or want to make sense of your experiences; and working with possibilities and finding new motivation, for when you want to focus on growth and strengths. I like to equip you with agency over your own development and share context as to how therapy works.
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Photo of Harriet Sheppard, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Harriet Sheppard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E17  (Online Only)
I offer a supportive, creative and honest environment to explore what it is like being you. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or something you don't have a word for yet, what's really important in therapy is the relationship that we build together. We'll work collaboratively to find an approach works for you and supports you to move towards meaningful change. While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
I offer a supportive, creative and honest environment to explore what it is like being you. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or something you don't have a word for yet, what's really important in therapy is the relationship that we build together. We'll work collaboratively to find an approach works for you and supports you to move towards meaningful change. While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
020 3835 4754 View 020 3835 4754
Photo of Amber Bartlett, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Amber Bartlett
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Harlow CM18
I am a fully qualified, HCPC registered Art Psychotherapist. I specialise in supporting children, teenagers and young adults from age 4-18. I am a trauma informed therapist, I work with various issues including Anxiety and Panic attacks, Low self-esteem, Bereavement, Trauma, Health Anxiety, Behaviour and Communication needs. I am experienced with neurodivergent YP such as those with an autism or ADHD diagnosis, and supporting non-verbal children. I can offer sessions to parents who wish to be part of a collaborative thinking process. I offer art therapy students at Hertfordshire University clinical supervision or personal therapy.
I am a fully qualified, HCPC registered Art Psychotherapist. I specialise in supporting children, teenagers and young adults from age 4-18. I am a trauma informed therapist, I work with various issues including Anxiety and Panic attacks, Low self-esteem, Bereavement, Trauma, Health Anxiety, Behaviour and Communication needs. I am experienced with neurodivergent YP such as those with an autism or ADHD diagnosis, and supporting non-verbal children. I can offer sessions to parents who wish to be part of a collaborative thinking process. I offer art therapy students at Hertfordshire University clinical supervision or personal therapy.
01279 976897 View 01279 976897
Photo of Dr Denika Campbell-Lee, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Denika Campbell-Lee
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Barking IG11  (Online Only)
Also, those who have been diagnosed with or think they have traits of the following; Autism Spectrum Condition/Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Do you feel misunderstood, either by others or even yourself? Are you struggling with your mood? Do you find yourself tearful, anxious, confused or angry? Do you have days where you are able to function with your struggles and days you find it too hard to function? Hi I'm Denika and I would love to help! We'll think about everything that makes you, you! Including cultural and social aspects which are not typically considered in traditional therapeutic models. There's many versions of you, and together we can discover the version you want to be most present. I also offer private Neurodevelopmental assessments (starting from £1900).
Also, those who have been diagnosed with or think they have traits of the following; Autism Spectrum Condition/Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Do you feel misunderstood, either by others or even yourself? Are you struggling with your mood? Do you find yourself tearful, anxious, confused or angry? Do you have days where you are able to function with your struggles and days you find it too hard to function? Hi I'm Denika and I would love to help! We'll think about everything that makes you, you! Including cultural and social aspects which are not typically considered in traditional therapeutic models. There's many versions of you, and together we can discover the version you want to be most present. I also offer private Neurodevelopmental assessments (starting from £1900).
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Photo of Dr Sarah Callman, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sarah Callman
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N10
Hi! I’m Sarah and I'm a Counselling Psychologist. I have over 10 years of clinical experience. I work in an NHS Community Mental Health Team for Kensington and Chelsea. I am experienced working with adults and adolescents including those with neurodevelopmental disorders: autism and ADHD. The most essential ingredient to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship. My aim is to provide a welcoming and compassionate space built on trust, respect and understanding. During the assessment process we would identify your therapy goals and use this as a guide for formulating a treatment plan to help you make a positive difference.
Hi! I’m Sarah and I'm a Counselling Psychologist. I have over 10 years of clinical experience. I work in an NHS Community Mental Health Team for Kensington and Chelsea. I am experienced working with adults and adolescents including those with neurodevelopmental disorders: autism and ADHD. The most essential ingredient to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship. My aim is to provide a welcoming and compassionate space built on trust, respect and understanding. During the assessment process we would identify your therapy goals and use this as a guide for formulating a treatment plan to help you make a positive difference.
020 3974 7473 View 020 3974 7473
Photo of Dr Lucy Murray, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Lucy Murray
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N13
I offer psychological therapy to people on their path to becoming pregnant, pregnancy and the first few years of parenthood. In my role as an NHS Neonatal Clinical Psychologist, I have the privilege of supporting parents whose babies have been born prematurely. I have helped my clients with difficulties including complex fertility journeys, worries during pregnancy, birth trauma, loss or bereavement, concerns about attachment and bonding and adjustment to having a child with longer-term health needs. I support parental mental health needs including anxiety, depression, Autism and ADHD. I look forward to speaking to you.
I offer psychological therapy to people on their path to becoming pregnant, pregnancy and the first few years of parenthood. In my role as an NHS Neonatal Clinical Psychologist, I have the privilege of supporting parents whose babies have been born prematurely. I have helped my clients with difficulties including complex fertility journeys, worries during pregnancy, birth trauma, loss or bereavement, concerns about attachment and bonding and adjustment to having a child with longer-term health needs. I support parental mental health needs including anxiety, depression, Autism and ADHD. I look forward to speaking to you.
0114 697 1116 View 0114 697 1116

See more therapy options for Loughton

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.