Autism Counselling in Nottingham

Photo of Simon Wainwright, MBACP, Counsellor
Simon Wainwright
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
My background was for many years in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, in more recent years I have worked in mental health support, working with people who have severe and enduring mental health needs.
Hi I'm Simon, I am here to listen, reflect, discuss and support you with whatever difficulties you may want to bring to therapy. I work with you as an individual to find the best way forward for you, therapy can provide time and space to express things that you need to express, to gain a different perspective on things, to help make sense of past events and try and to move towards a more positive future.
My background was for many years in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, in more recent years I have worked in mental health support, working with people who have severe and enduring mental health needs.
Hi I'm Simon, I am here to listen, reflect, discuss and support you with whatever difficulties you may want to bring to therapy. I work with you as an individual to find the best way forward for you, therapy can provide time and space to express things that you need to express, to gain a different perspective on things, to help make sense of past events and try and to move towards a more positive future.
0115 647 3628 View 0115 647 3628
Photo of Alice Bramhill - The Inner Critic Coach, Psychotherapist
The Inner Critic Coach
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG5  (Online Only)
A late diagnosis of adhd or autism, and big life changes can be a huge adjustment.
Hello. I'm Alice, welcome! I'm on a mission to help burnout, frustrated people pleasers to live an authentic fulfilling life, aligned with their values. Is this you? Your nervous system is struggling to keep regulated with the thought of changes, you want to be bold, brave and ask your boss for a shorter working week, but the inner critic persuades you not to, I mean, what will the team think of you?! ​ You want to tell your friend that you don't really enjoy meeting at busy places anymore since your autism diagnosis, but the inner critic says that's selfish! ​Let me help you tame the inner critic and let self care do the talking.
A late diagnosis of adhd or autism, and big life changes can be a huge adjustment.
Hello. I'm Alice, welcome! I'm on a mission to help burnout, frustrated people pleasers to live an authentic fulfilling life, aligned with their values. Is this you? Your nervous system is struggling to keep regulated with the thought of changes, you want to be bold, brave and ask your boss for a shorter working week, but the inner critic persuades you not to, I mean, what will the team think of you?! ​ You want to tell your friend that you don't really enjoy meeting at busy places anymore since your autism diagnosis, but the inner critic says that's selfish! ​Let me help you tame the inner critic and let self care do the talking.
0115 647 4666 View 0115 647 4666
Photo of Jay McCarthy, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jay McCarthy
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you’ve been living life in hard mode for too long? I am here to support you in finding your way from struggling to thriving. I am an experienced counsellor specialising in supporting neurodivergent (inc. autism, ADHD, & BPD) and LGBTQ+ clients. Whether you are depressed, anxious, or feeling stuck, I am here to offer you a space to bring all of that, openly, without judgement. I take a person-centred approach, not seeing you as broken or in need of fixing, but rather offering you a space to make sense of things and feel wholly accepted just as you are. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual abuse.
Do you feel like you’ve been living life in hard mode for too long? I am here to support you in finding your way from struggling to thriving. I am an experienced counsellor specialising in supporting neurodivergent (inc. autism, ADHD, & BPD) and LGBTQ+ clients. Whether you are depressed, anxious, or feeling stuck, I am here to offer you a space to bring all of that, openly, without judgement. I take a person-centred approach, not seeing you as broken or in need of fixing, but rather offering you a space to make sense of things and feel wholly accepted just as you are. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual abuse.
01926 895421 View 01926 895421
Matthew Vinecombe
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
autism, ADHD).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the NHS and private sector. I specialise in supporting the families of neurodiverse children and young people to understand their differences, to develop better relationships and to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. Clinical services include: neurodevelopmental & family assessment; autism assessment; ADHD assessment; assessment of intellectual ability; and brief neurodevelopmental intervention. I offer most of these services online for clients throughout the UK. For more information about my services, fees and cinical approach, please visit www.vicandas.com
autism, ADHD).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the NHS and private sector. I specialise in supporting the families of neurodiverse children and young people to understand their differences, to develop better relationships and to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. Clinical services include: neurodevelopmental & family assessment; autism assessment; ADHD assessment; assessment of intellectual ability; and brief neurodevelopmental intervention. I offer most of these services online for clients throughout the UK. For more information about my services, fees and cinical approach, please visit www.vicandas.com
01889 228105 View 01889 228105
Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
020 3962 0179 View 020 3962 0179
Photo of Dr Samantha Lewis - Dr Samantha Lewis: ADHD and Autism specialist , HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Samantha Lewis: ADHD and Autism specialist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who has worked exclusively in the area of adult Autism (previously known as Asperger’s syndrome) and ADHD for over 20 years, both in the NHS and in private practice. People I see pursue an assessment as they are experiencing difficulties in their lives and wonder if it may be due to Autism and / or ADHD. I complete comprehensive, detailed diagnostic assessments which provide understanding and meaning and help people find ways to manage areas they are struggling with.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who has worked exclusively in the area of adult Autism (previously known as Asperger’s syndrome) and ADHD for over 20 years, both in the NHS and in private practice. People I see pursue an assessment as they are experiencing difficulties in their lives and wonder if it may be due to Autism and / or ADHD. I complete comprehensive, detailed diagnostic assessments which provide understanding and meaning and help people find ways to manage areas they are struggling with.
0116 366 8080 View 0116 366 8080
Photo of Sara Bartlett Brown, MBACP, Counsellor
Sara Bartlett Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
I've completed a Post Grad Cert in Autism with Dr Luke Beardon and I read widely the writing & research by autistic writers & advocates.
I work online with adult autistic Individuals and with Couples in the UK. I provide an accessible & compassionate service that reduces distress & enables people to address what is difficult. If we have not been understood and accepted we may develop ways of being and doing that do not support our well being. We keep our true selves hidden from others and whilst this protects us, it can cause much pain and limit us. With an understanding therapist we can trust, we begin to make sense of who we are, how we are and what has happened to us in our lives. We can be truer to ourselves and live with more confidence, ease and acceptance.
I've completed a Post Grad Cert in Autism with Dr Luke Beardon and I read widely the writing & research by autistic writers & advocates.
I work online with adult autistic Individuals and with Couples in the UK. I provide an accessible & compassionate service that reduces distress & enables people to address what is difficult. If we have not been understood and accepted we may develop ways of being and doing that do not support our well being. We keep our true selves hidden from others and whilst this protects us, it can cause much pain and limit us. With an understanding therapist we can trust, we begin to make sense of who we are, how we are and what has happened to us in our lives. We can be truer to ourselves and live with more confidence, ease and acceptance.
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Photo of Dr Jeremy Rowe, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jeremy Rowe
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Waitlist for new clients
I am qualified to assess & diagnose autism & ADHD.
I am a specialist OCD therapist; 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. 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 am qualified to assess & diagnose autism & ADHD.
I am a specialist OCD therapist; 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. 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 Christopher Morris, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Christopher Morris
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
I have a great deal of experience or working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as those living with varying mental health conditions such as Bipolar, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello, I'm Christopher, a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with, Adults, Children & Young People and Couples in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire. As a Humanistic Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to achieve their fullest potential. Anyone who is struggling with a personal concern can seek counselling. No issue is too big or too small to ask for support. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, when they need it. Therefore, I work with clients of all ages, from 4 years old and upwards. Please email in the first instance.
I have a great deal of experience or working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as those living with varying mental health conditions such as Bipolar, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello, I'm Christopher, a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with, Adults, Children & Young People and Couples in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire. As a Humanistic Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to achieve their fullest potential. Anyone who is struggling with a personal concern can seek counselling. No issue is too big or too small to ask for support. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, when they need it. Therefore, I work with clients of all ages, from 4 years old and upwards. Please email in the first instance.
01623 392757 View 01623 392757
Photo of Rhys Hawkins - Verdant Psychotherapy, MSc, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Verdant Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with autism, trauma, anxiety and low mood, loss and bereavement.
Whatever is going on for you, I love to work with you where you're at. This means that you may be feeling low, anxious, stressed, or be working through a loss or a recent life event. You might also be curious about the process of therapy, and simply want to learn more about yourself and your feelings. I'm excited to learn more about you, and develop some psychological tools to experiment with together.
I have extensive experience working with autism, trauma, anxiety and low mood, loss and bereavement.
Whatever is going on for you, I love to work with you where you're at. This means that you may be feeling low, anxious, stressed, or be working through a loss or a recent life event. You might also be curious about the process of therapy, and simply want to learn more about yourself and your feelings. I'm excited to learn more about you, and develop some psychological tools to experiment with together.
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Photo of Kate Greenwood, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Kate Greenwood
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9  (Online Only)
My name is Kate and I’m a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I know it can be hard and even scary to reach out and ask for help but it can also be life changing. I offer a compassionate and safe place for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours using the CBT approach. I always lead with empathy and will work at your pace to make sure that you feel comfortable and supported. I have a particular interest in working with people with Social Anxiety, Low self-esteem, Autism and ADHD and I am a proud supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community. Visit my website for further information on how I can support you.
My name is Kate and I’m a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I know it can be hard and even scary to reach out and ask for help but it can also be life changing. I offer a compassionate and safe place for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours using the CBT approach. I always lead with empathy and will work at your pace to make sure that you feel comfortable and supported. I have a particular interest in working with people with Social Anxiety, Low self-esteem, Autism and ADHD and I am a proud supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community. Visit my website for further information on how I can support you.
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Photo of Bex Fennell, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Bex Fennell
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG10
I have experience of working with additional needs, specifically Autism/ ADHD and have worked for agencies offering counselling for survivors of sexual abuse, bereavement and loss and adolescent trauma.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCPS) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
I have experience of working with additional needs, specifically Autism/ ADHD and have worked for agencies offering counselling for survivors of sexual abuse, bereavement and loss and adolescent trauma.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCPS) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
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Photo of Kim Lewin, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Kim Lewin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
0115 647 7340 View 0115 647 7340
Photo of Sarah Olds, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Sarah Olds
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Do you feel like something needs to change but it’s hard know where to start? Do you find yourself getting caught up in unhelpful patterns within your family, relationships or work? Or maybe you're feeling numb, empty or anxious and can't seem to shake this off? When you’re feeling stuck in a pattern or weighed down by distressing feelings it can be really hard to find a way forward and find the motivation to change things. You are the expert on your own situation, but sometimes it can help to talk things through so you can understand yourself moreand live your life more fully.
Do you feel like something needs to change but it’s hard know where to start? Do you find yourself getting caught up in unhelpful patterns within your family, relationships or work? Or maybe you're feeling numb, empty or anxious and can't seem to shake this off? When you’re feeling stuck in a pattern or weighed down by distressing feelings it can be really hard to find a way forward and find the motivation to change things. You are the expert on your own situation, but sometimes it can help to talk things through so you can understand yourself moreand live your life more fully.
0115 647 0443 View 0115 647 0443
Photo of Janette Welsh, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Janette Welsh
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Hello, I am Janette. I am a UKCP and BACP-registered psychotherapist. I meet with individuals and couples in person from my practice in Nottingham, and remotely, using the Zoom platform. I gained my MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy at The Sherwood Psychotherapy Training Institute and Staffordshire University. I understand how for many people, the decision to seek therapy can feel like a daunting experience, and so I aim to make you feel as comfortable and at ease as possible from the very first session. I welcome the opportunity for us to meet.
Hello, I am Janette. I am a UKCP and BACP-registered psychotherapist. I meet with individuals and couples in person from my practice in Nottingham, and remotely, using the Zoom platform. I gained my MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy at The Sherwood Psychotherapy Training Institute and Staffordshire University. I understand how for many people, the decision to seek therapy can feel like a daunting experience, and so I aim to make you feel as comfortable and at ease as possible from the very first session. I welcome the opportunity for us to meet.
01777 808798 View 01777 808798
Photo of Alison Claire McLauchlan - Alison McLauchlan Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Alison McLauchlan Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nottingham NG2
Hello, I’m Alison (she/her) and I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist working in Nottingham and online. I also offer Neurodivergent Coaching. My experience covers a wide range of mental health and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, trauma and abuse. I work with adults and young people from the age of 12 from a diverse range of backgrounds and life experience. I have a particular interest in supporting Neurodivergent clients and will adapt my ways of working to meet your needs. I will offer you a confidential space where you can explore what is happening for you.
Hello, I’m Alison (she/her) and I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist working in Nottingham and online. I also offer Neurodivergent Coaching. My experience covers a wide range of mental health and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, trauma and abuse. I work with adults and young people from the age of 12 from a diverse range of backgrounds and life experience. I have a particular interest in supporting Neurodivergent clients and will adapt my ways of working to meet your needs. I will offer you a confidential space where you can explore what is happening for you.
01777 802236 View 01777 802236
Photo of Susanne Sklepek-Hatton, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Susanne Sklepek-Hatton
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG2
Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I will sit with you in a safe space, listen to you and together we will get to know your inner world, however messy, complex and conflicted it may seem to begin with. As a result as eg. childhood trauma, toxic family dynamics, discrimination or the experience of being neurodivergent (self or externally diagnosed) in a neurotypical world you might feel not good enough or even ashamed. The world might feel like it is too much or you might not feel much at all. Together we will work to re-built a way to relearn to relate with yourself based on agency, authenticity and wholeness.
Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I will sit with you in a safe space, listen to you and together we will get to know your inner world, however messy, complex and conflicted it may seem to begin with. As a result as eg. childhood trauma, toxic family dynamics, discrimination or the experience of being neurodivergent (self or externally diagnosed) in a neurotypical world you might feel not good enough or even ashamed. The world might feel like it is too much or you might not feel much at all. Together we will work to re-built a way to relearn to relate with yourself based on agency, authenticity and wholeness.
01777 802513 View 01777 802513
Photo of Bernard I Horsford, PhD, CPsychol, Counsellor
Bernard I Horsford
Counsellor, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Dr Bernard Horsford, PhD, D Occ Psych, MBA, M.Sc, LLB, BA, DipAdEd, DipM, FCIPD, MAPM, MIoD, FIC, MAE, C Psychol, AFBPsS I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of clinical settings dealing with occupational, clinical and forensic issues. In these settings, I have provided individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and psychological assessment services. I have an extensive background in working with culturally diverse populations. My practice is geared towards adolescents and adults grappling employment, personal, family work, educational or health issues.
Dr Bernard Horsford, PhD, D Occ Psych, MBA, M.Sc, LLB, BA, DipAdEd, DipM, FCIPD, MAPM, MIoD, FIC, MAE, C Psychol, AFBPsS I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of clinical settings dealing with occupational, clinical and forensic issues. In these settings, I have provided individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and psychological assessment services. I have an extensive background in working with culturally diverse populations. My practice is geared towards adolescents and adults grappling employment, personal, family work, educational or health issues.
0115 940 0499 View 0115 940 0499
Photo of Vauna Beauvais, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Vauna Beauvais
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
Even though you are looking for a psychotherapist or coach who specialises in working with neurodivergent people, your identity may not be the central reason for seeking a therapist. You can arrive presenting with anything that is part of human experience or life. Yet, the importance of choosing a neurodivergent psychotherapist is that there will be understanding of any sensory and processing differences. This means that wrong assumptions about how you ‘should be’ aren’t made, you won't be misread, and, consequently, the work will have meaning and usefulness for you. Adult individuals and couples are welcome.
Even though you are looking for a psychotherapist or coach who specialises in working with neurodivergent people, your identity may not be the central reason for seeking a therapist. You can arrive presenting with anything that is part of human experience or life. Yet, the importance of choosing a neurodivergent psychotherapist is that there will be understanding of any sensory and processing differences. This means that wrong assumptions about how you ‘should be’ aren’t made, you won't be misread, and, consequently, the work will have meaning and usefulness for you. Adult individuals and couples are welcome.
0115 697 1002 View 0115 697 1002
Photo of Dr Catherine Bavister, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Catherine Bavister
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG11
SLOTS Available! I’m Catherine, Clinical Psychologist, with the HCPC. I'm here if you need support with your mood, coping or dealing with your past. I aim to offer a friendly, non-judgemental space, where we can get stuck in to understanding how you tick, to work through the problems you bring. You might have a clear idea of what you want, but I otherwise draw on various therapy approaches to personalise strategies so you can do what works for you, to make the changes you need. I work with anxiety disorders (including panic, phobia, stress, OCD), PTSD, depression, and I have a keen interest in ASD.
SLOTS Available! I’m Catherine, Clinical Psychologist, with the HCPC. I'm here if you need support with your mood, coping or dealing with your past. I aim to offer a friendly, non-judgemental space, where we can get stuck in to understanding how you tick, to work through the problems you bring. You might have a clear idea of what you want, but I otherwise draw on various therapy approaches to personalise strategies so you can do what works for you, to make the changes you need. I work with anxiety disorders (including panic, phobia, stress, OCD), PTSD, depression, and I have a keen interest in ASD.
0115 647 6924 View 0115 647 6924
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See more therapy options for Nottingham

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.