Autism Counselling in Welwyn Garden City

Photo of Nicola Borthwick, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Borthwick
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7
I have worked with a broad client group who have experienced anxiety, depression, bereavement, abuse, trauma, relationship/family difficulties, suicidal feelings, anger issues, OCD and domestic violence, as well as many other issues, including personality disorders & Autism/ASC.
Hello, my name is Nicola and I am an Integrative counsellor. This means that I can integrate a range of counselling approaches tailored to your needs, to help you find a way through difficulties so that you find your own solutions. This includes the following types of counselling: Person Centred, Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA)/Communication. I am an accredited member of NCS and a member of BACP, in addition I am also a qualified Adult Community Co-ordinator in Further Education. I have worked in this sector for almost 30 years and offer training in Mental Health including Mindfulness.
I have worked with a broad client group who have experienced anxiety, depression, bereavement, abuse, trauma, relationship/family difficulties, suicidal feelings, anger issues, OCD and domestic violence, as well as many other issues, including personality disorders & Autism/ASC.
Hello, my name is Nicola and I am an Integrative counsellor. This means that I can integrate a range of counselling approaches tailored to your needs, to help you find a way through difficulties so that you find your own solutions. This includes the following types of counselling: Person Centred, Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA)/Communication. I am an accredited member of NCS and a member of BACP, in addition I am also a qualified Adult Community Co-ordinator in Further Education. I have worked in this sector for almost 30 years and offer training in Mental Health including Mindfulness.
07480 537495 View 07480 537495
Photo of Debbie Hague, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Debbie Hague
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL8
I have been an Integrative Counsellor/Therapist for over 20 years and I have a background in Mental health management, Autism and Addiction issues.
Hi, I’m Debbie and I have expertise and proven experience of helping clients, from all walks of life and diversity, move forward with their lives. Perhaps your issues come from a difficult past or childhood abuse or trauma? I help with self esteem and identity, stress and sleep issues. Or maybe you are struggling with your relationship or the aftermath of COVID 19? I provide a calm and safe environment in which to explore what is important to you and at your own pace.
I have been an Integrative Counsellor/Therapist for over 20 years and I have a background in Mental health management, Autism and Addiction issues.
Hi, I’m Debbie and I have expertise and proven experience of helping clients, from all walks of life and diversity, move forward with their lives. Perhaps your issues come from a difficult past or childhood abuse or trauma? I help with self esteem and identity, stress and sleep issues. Or maybe you are struggling with your relationship or the aftermath of COVID 19? I provide a calm and safe environment in which to explore what is important to you and at your own pace.
01438 584449 View 01438 584449
Photo of Dawn Gregory, BACP, Counsellor
Dawn Gregory
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7
I am a warm, friendly person and a good listener. I have a very empathic understanding and vast experiences from my own personal life. This has shaped me to be the person I am today. Things from our childhoods and certain traumas, can have us acting out behaviours that can be damaging to us. I have experience working with relationship breakdowns, alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety and self harm. I have worked with adolescents and adults of all disabilities. I've worked a great deal with confidence building and low self-esteem. I can help you recognise these behaviours and what triggers them.
I am a warm, friendly person and a good listener. I have a very empathic understanding and vast experiences from my own personal life. This has shaped me to be the person I am today. Things from our childhoods and certain traumas, can have us acting out behaviours that can be damaging to us. I have experience working with relationship breakdowns, alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety and self harm. I have worked with adolescents and adults of all disabilities. I've worked a great deal with confidence building and low self-esteem. I can help you recognise these behaviours and what triggers them.
01438 300453 View 01438 300453
Photo of Teresa Pacchiega, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Teresa Pacchiega
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7
I have over twenty-five years of experience working with individuals, couples and families with a variety of difficulties including relationship strains; life transitions; intense and difficult emotions and experiences; issues around identity, mental health problems and life-long conditions
I have over twenty-five years of experience working with individuals, couples and families with a variety of difficulties including relationship strains; life transitions; intense and difficult emotions and experiences; issues around identity, mental health problems and life-long conditions
01582 377872 View 01582 377872
Photo of Erica Spencer Green - Valley Counselling, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Valley Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7
Problems are personal, bereavement, depression, stress, relationship breakdowns and anxiety can all feel unbearable and isolating. The reasons for seeking counselling or psychotherapy are as unique and varied as we are. Sometimes we have an idea of what is annoying or upsetting us. Sometimes we struggle to understand issues that darken our days. We might enter a cycle of blame or self-loathing in which we get lost, finding it difficult to move forwards in our lives.
Problems are personal, bereavement, depression, stress, relationship breakdowns and anxiety can all feel unbearable and isolating. The reasons for seeking counselling or psychotherapy are as unique and varied as we are. Sometimes we have an idea of what is annoying or upsetting us. Sometimes we struggle to understand issues that darken our days. We might enter a cycle of blame or self-loathing in which we get lost, finding it difficult to move forwards in our lives.
01727 638101 View 01727 638101
Photo of Renata Harris, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Renata Harris
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL8
Hello, I'm Renata. I am a Psychologist and Psychotherapist (17+ years), and a BPS supervisor. I had extensive personal therapy myself. I aim to equip you with skills and self-acceptance to heal. I offer NICE recommended, holistic and relational therapy to get your life back on track, in a safe and validating space. I have worked in the NHS as a Psychology Lead in an eating disorders service for over 10 years. I have experience in working with most mental health diagnoses as well as neurodiversity, addiction, bereavement, anxiety, low mood, stress, family and marital problems, issues with anger, self-esteem, and relational issues.
Hello, I'm Renata. I am a Psychologist and Psychotherapist (17+ years), and a BPS supervisor. I had extensive personal therapy myself. I aim to equip you with skills and self-acceptance to heal. I offer NICE recommended, holistic and relational therapy to get your life back on track, in a safe and validating space. I have worked in the NHS as a Psychology Lead in an eating disorders service for over 10 years. I have experience in working with most mental health diagnoses as well as neurodiversity, addiction, bereavement, anxiety, low mood, stress, family and marital problems, issues with anger, self-esteem, and relational issues.
01582 377599 View 01582 377599
Photo of Jacquie Chandler, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jacquie Chandler
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welwyn Garden City AL8
Entering therapy can be anxiety provoking in itself thus I believe a positive therapeutic relationship is essential in ensuring clients feel comfortable to talk about whats happening for them. I have a calm, non-judgemental approach, working at the clients pace.
Entering therapy can be anxiety provoking in itself thus I believe a positive therapeutic relationship is essential in ensuring clients feel comfortable to talk about whats happening for them. I have a calm, non-judgemental approach, working at the clients pace.
01992 351481 View 01992 351481
Photo of Lizzie Mitchell, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Lizzie Mitchell
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7
I am a psychotherapist that specialises in working with children and adolescents. Is your child struggling with anxiety, low mood, managing their emotions or attending school? I also specialise in offering mental health support to children and adolescents with an ASD or ADHD diagnosis. My goal is to provide timely and individualised private therapy, helping your child navigate these complexities, by fostering resilience and empowering both you and your child.
I am a psychotherapist that specialises in working with children and adolescents. Is your child struggling with anxiety, low mood, managing their emotions or attending school? I also specialise in offering mental health support to children and adolescents with an ASD or ADHD diagnosis. My goal is to provide timely and individualised private therapy, helping your child navigate these complexities, by fostering resilience and empowering both you and your child.
01462 412417 View 01462 412417
Photo of Luisa Picciuto, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Luisa Picciuto
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welwyn Garden City AL7
Hello, I'm Luisa. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist for children and young people. Being an Integrative therapist means I am trained to use various therapeutic modalities and skills to support each young person, including using Play-Based techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Person-Centred approach and using Systemic thinking. I work with warmth, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, holding space for any young person to explore their feelings and experiences in a safe, ethical environment. I offer a modern and fresh perspective, bringing a warm, ‘human’, welcoming vibe to sessions.
Hello, I'm Luisa. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist for children and young people. Being an Integrative therapist means I am trained to use various therapeutic modalities and skills to support each young person, including using Play-Based techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Person-Centred approach and using Systemic thinking. I work with warmth, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, holding space for any young person to explore their feelings and experiences in a safe, ethical environment. I offer a modern and fresh perspective, bringing a warm, ‘human’, welcoming vibe to sessions.
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Photo of Lorraine Diston, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lorraine Diston
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7
Adult and Child centred interventions underpinned by trauma informed practice. Hello...My name is Lorraine Diston, I am a post graduate Person-Centred counsellor, Play therapist and Clinical Supervisor with a specialism of working with trauma, abuse and bereavement. I work with children and young people through the medium of play and creativity as well as adults and families experiencing difficult feelings and discord. I provide freelance counselling services to schools, colleges and charities.
Adult and Child centred interventions underpinned by trauma informed practice. Hello...My name is Lorraine Diston, I am a post graduate Person-Centred counsellor, Play therapist and Clinical Supervisor with a specialism of working with trauma, abuse and bereavement. I work with children and young people through the medium of play and creativity as well as adults and families experiencing difficult feelings and discord. I provide freelance counselling services to schools, colleges and charities.
01438 904190 View 01438 904190
Photo of Jacqui Whittingham, MBACP, Counsellor
Jacqui Whittingham
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Welwyn Garden City AL7  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you worry all the time? Are you scared of what other people think of you? Does your life feel exhausting and overwhelming? Maybe it's hard to put into words exactly what life is like for you? Perhaps it’s hard for you to say no when people ask you to do things even if you don't want to do them? Maybe this affects work and relationships and stops you going out or applying for that new job or just puts you under pressure the whole time. Perhaps you feel isolated and lonely because it's just too hard to connect with others. I wonder if all you want is to feel comfortable in your own skin? If this is you - I get it, I see you.
Do you worry all the time? Are you scared of what other people think of you? Does your life feel exhausting and overwhelming? Maybe it's hard to put into words exactly what life is like for you? Perhaps it’s hard for you to say no when people ask you to do things even if you don't want to do them? Maybe this affects work and relationships and stops you going out or applying for that new job or just puts you under pressure the whole time. Perhaps you feel isolated and lonely because it's just too hard to connect with others. I wonder if all you want is to feel comfortable in your own skin? If this is you - I get it, I see you.
01727 260355 View 01727 260355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Hertford SG14
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
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Photo of Dr Reena Devi Ali, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Reena Devi Ali
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
St Albans AL1
Trauma, anxiety, autism, substance use are my key areas of interest.
Hi, my name is Reena and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have significant experience helping people who are experiencing emotional distress including but not limited to low mood, anxiety, trauma and more. I offer evidence based, psychological therapy to individuals. I am an integrative psychologist, drawing on specialist interventions. I also offer therapeutic coaching and consultations. In our sessions we work collaboratively to help make sense of your distress and offer treatment that is tailored to your needs. I have worked in the NHS for almost 15years in a variety of roles and settings including CAMHS
Trauma, anxiety, autism, substance use are my key areas of interest.
Hi, my name is Reena and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have significant experience helping people who are experiencing emotional distress including but not limited to low mood, anxiety, trauma and more. I offer evidence based, psychological therapy to individuals. I am an integrative psychologist, drawing on specialist interventions. I also offer therapeutic coaching and consultations. In our sessions we work collaboratively to help make sense of your distress and offer treatment that is tailored to your needs. I have worked in the NHS for almost 15years in a variety of roles and settings including CAMHS
01582 377620 View 01582 377620
Photo of Alison Singleton, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap., Psychotherapist
Alison Singleton
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ware SG12
Hi I'm Alison and I provide sessions for children and young people aged 4- 18 years. I support clients with a wide range of issues including Anxiety, Low Mood, Low Self-Esteem, Bereavement, Transitions, Change, Trauma, Challenges with Self-Expression and Communication. I also have experience of working with children and young people with special education needs and those diagnosed with Autism or ADHD.
Hi I'm Alison and I provide sessions for children and young people aged 4- 18 years. I support clients with a wide range of issues including Anxiety, Low Mood, Low Self-Esteem, Bereavement, Transitions, Change, Trauma, Challenges with Self-Expression and Communication. I also have experience of working with children and young people with special education needs and those diagnosed with Autism or ADHD.
01992 932756 View 01992 932756
Photo of Sarah Rose, BACP, Counsellor
Sarah Rose
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Luton LU2
I have personal and professional experience of Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling anxious? Finding life overwhelming? Struggling with low mood? I can help. Sometimes life gets a bit too much, maybe something happened, either recently or in the past and this is affecting how you feel now. Perhaps you are unsure about why you feel the way that you do and you would like to explore this with someone who is trained to listen. I can provide you with a safe and non judgmental space to navigate difficult times and work through your experiences and emotions.
I have personal and professional experience of Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling anxious? Finding life overwhelming? Struggling with low mood? I can help. Sometimes life gets a bit too much, maybe something happened, either recently or in the past and this is affecting how you feel now. Perhaps you are unsure about why you feel the way that you do and you would like to explore this with someone who is trained to listen. I can provide you with a safe and non judgmental space to navigate difficult times and work through your experiences and emotions.
07918 268840 View 07918 268840
Photo of Dr Catriona Amberton, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Catriona Amberton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hertford SG14
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 24 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 24 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
01707 244841 View 01707 244841
Photo of Dr Sonia Borghino, MSc, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Sonia Borghino
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Stevenage SG1
I use Neurofeedback (EGG Biofeedback) to promote well-being and a person's ability to cope and for a variety of symptoms including insomnia, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, Autism and more.
I am a licensed Psychologist registered with the BPS and HCPC. I worked in a clinical setting for over 22 years with a variety of client groups including community, outpatients and inpatients hospital. I have worked extensively with clients with mental disorders and neuro-developmental conditions even when these are strongly affected by childhood trauma. I offer talking therapy and also a unique approach to health and wellness including EMDR, neurofeedback an body biofeedback technology to help the body and the brain to better self-regulate and heal naturally without medication or with less reliance on medication.
I use Neurofeedback (EGG Biofeedback) to promote well-being and a person's ability to cope and for a variety of symptoms including insomnia, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, Autism and more.
I am a licensed Psychologist registered with the BPS and HCPC. I worked in a clinical setting for over 22 years with a variety of client groups including community, outpatients and inpatients hospital. I have worked extensively with clients with mental disorders and neuro-developmental conditions even when these are strongly affected by childhood trauma. I offer talking therapy and also a unique approach to health and wellness including EMDR, neurofeedback an body biofeedback technology to help the body and the brain to better self-regulate and heal naturally without medication or with less reliance on medication.
020 3893 2192 View 020 3893 2192
Photo of Dr Morvwen Duncan, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Morvwen Duncan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
St Albans AL1
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing specialist psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties in children and young people. This includes supporting those who are experiencing low mood, anxiety and challenges in forming or maintaining relationships. ​I specialise in comprehensive neuropsychological assessments to understand a young person's learning strengths and areas of difficulty, and to identify general or specific learning difficulties, such as Dyslexia. I also provide assessment of neurodevelopmental difficulties, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing specialist psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties in children and young people. This includes supporting those who are experiencing low mood, anxiety and challenges in forming or maintaining relationships. ​I specialise in comprehensive neuropsychological assessments to understand a young person's learning strengths and areas of difficulty, and to identify general or specific learning difficulties, such as Dyslexia. I also provide assessment of neurodevelopmental difficulties, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.
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Photo of Amber Bartlett, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Amber Bartlett
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ware SG12
Is your child suffering with anxiety, low mood, or other mental health issues? Is this affecting your relationship with them? Or have they been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism and need support to express or process their feelings? Sometimes a difficulty expressing feelings can be directly linked with a trauma such as being bullied, sexual abuse, conflict in the family, or a sudden bereavement. If you feel worried about your child, no matter how big or small it might seem, please get in touch for a free consultation. I am a qualified HCPC registered art therapist trained to work with Children, Teenagers and Parent/Adults.
Is your child suffering with anxiety, low mood, or other mental health issues? Is this affecting your relationship with them? Or have they been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism and need support to express or process their feelings? Sometimes a difficulty expressing feelings can be directly linked with a trauma such as being bullied, sexual abuse, conflict in the family, or a sudden bereavement. If you feel worried about your child, no matter how big or small it might seem, please get in touch for a free consultation. I am a qualified HCPC registered art therapist trained to work with Children, Teenagers and Parent/Adults.
07834 824745 View 07834 824745
Photo of Rebecca Hunt - Private Child Autism Assessment, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Private Child Autism Assessment
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hertford SG14
We conduct specialist assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for school aged children. We are a multidisciplinary team of clinicians based in Hertfordshire. Our assessments are all conducted in line with the NICE Guidelines.
We conduct specialist assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for school aged children. We are a multidisciplinary team of clinicians based in Hertfordshire. Our assessments are all conducted in line with the NICE Guidelines.
01920 455449 View 01920 455449

See more therapy options for Welwyn Garden City

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.