Autism Counselling in Exeter
I’m race and culturally aware, LGBTQIA+ allied, and neuro-affirming, with a special interest in supporting late-discovered neurodivergence, such as Autism and ADHD.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to offer a safe, comfortable confidential space where you can explore your feelings without judgment. Reaching out can be daunting, but I aim to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. Together, we’ll work toward your therapy goals, with trust, openness, and even a bit of humour—therapy doesn’t always have to be serious! I specialize in helping with relationship issues, domestic abuse, trauma, and sexual abuse (both childhood and adult).
I’m race and culturally aware, LGBTQIA+ allied, and neuro-affirming, with a special interest in supporting late-discovered neurodivergence, such as Autism and ADHD.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to offer a safe, comfortable confidential space where you can explore your feelings without judgment. Reaching out can be daunting, but I aim to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. Together, we’ll work toward your therapy goals, with trust, openness, and even a bit of humour—therapy doesn’t always have to be serious! I specialize in helping with relationship issues, domestic abuse, trauma, and sexual abuse (both childhood and adult).
I have undertaken additional studies to deepen my understanding of counselling and neurodiversity, including ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia.
When one of life’s problems becomes overwhelming, you may be feeling anxious or distraught, it can make a real difference prioritising your needs and talking to a counsellor who can listen to you with compassion and without judgement. Life can feel challenging at times, stressful and full of uncertainty; are you struggling to cope with work or family life? Has life set you back? Or are you looking for some peace and calm in your life? Whatever you are struggling with or want to focus on, then I am here to help you.
I have undertaken additional studies to deepen my understanding of counselling and neurodiversity, including ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia.
When one of life’s problems becomes overwhelming, you may be feeling anxious or distraught, it can make a real difference prioritising your needs and talking to a counsellor who can listen to you with compassion and without judgement. Life can feel challenging at times, stressful and full of uncertainty; are you struggling to cope with work or family life? Has life set you back? Or are you looking for some peace and calm in your life? Whatever you are struggling with or want to focus on, then I am here to help you.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists with experience helping young people with the challenges they face such as anxiety, gender identity, social difficulties and exam pressure. I have experience with a local young persons charity and have undertaken training in Autism.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists with experience helping young people with the challenges they face such as anxiety, gender identity, social difficulties and exam pressure. I have experience with a local young persons charity and have undertaken training in Autism.
This Is Me Psychology supports people to recognise, understand and embrace Autism. We work with both Autistic people and their family members to bridge the gap between Neurodivergent people and those who are Neurotypical by helping them to gain the best possible understanding of each other. We use a neuro-affirming approach in our work to help focus on the strengths and achievements that someone has. We offer both short term post-diagnostic support packages and longer term psychology sessions.
This Is Me Psychology supports people to recognise, understand and embrace Autism. We work with both Autistic people and their family members to bridge the gap between Neurodivergent people and those who are Neurotypical by helping them to gain the best possible understanding of each other. We use a neuro-affirming approach in our work to help focus on the strengths and achievements that someone has. We offer both short term post-diagnostic support packages and longer term psychology sessions.
I can support you and your loved ones to overcome a wide range of difficulties, with particular expertise in working with: anxiety, phobias, eating disorders (including Anorexia and ARFID), depression and low mood, neurodiversity ( Autism and ADHD), and physical health conditions.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me who is able to work with family and relational difficulties.
I can support you and your loved ones to overcome a wide range of difficulties, with particular expertise in working with: anxiety, phobias, eating disorders (including Anorexia and ARFID), depression and low mood, neurodiversity ( Autism and ADHD), and physical health conditions.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me who is able to work with family and relational difficulties.
Have you always felt misunderstood or not good enough? Do you feel sad, confused or angry more than you would like ? My clinical background as an advanced nurse practitioner, combined with being a therapist, can give you the platform you need to feel heard, held and understood. Are you curious about the emotional impact of health issues such as menopause, PMS/PMDD, endometriosis, PCOS or fibromyalgia? Do you wonder if you are neurodivergent or are learning to process the joys and difficulties of ADHD and/or autism? Is past trauma holding you back? Are relationships difficult for you? I can help you understand yourself and thrive.
Have you always felt misunderstood or not good enough? Do you feel sad, confused or angry more than you would like ? My clinical background as an advanced nurse practitioner, combined with being a therapist, can give you the platform you need to feel heard, held and understood. Are you curious about the emotional impact of health issues such as menopause, PMS/PMDD, endometriosis, PCOS or fibromyalgia? Do you wonder if you are neurodivergent or are learning to process the joys and difficulties of ADHD and/or autism? Is past trauma holding you back? Are relationships difficult for you? I can help you understand yourself and thrive.
Mel Ciavucco - eating disorders and body image
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Mel. I'm an online Integrative counsellor. I'm passionate about helping people with disordered eating, eating disorders & body image problems, as well as helping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and self-worth & more. I work with people with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating, OSFED - but importantly, you don't need a label to access help. I support people with a range of eating and body image issues, to include weight/shape concerns & dieting. I am neuro-affirmative and work with clients with autism, ADHD and other kinds of neurodivergence. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, weight-inclusive & trauma-informed.
Hi, I'm Mel. I'm an online Integrative counsellor. I'm passionate about helping people with disordered eating, eating disorders & body image problems, as well as helping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and self-worth & more. I work with people with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating, OSFED - but importantly, you don't need a label to access help. I support people with a range of eating and body image issues, to include weight/shape concerns & dieting. I am neuro-affirmative and work with clients with autism, ADHD and other kinds of neurodivergence. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, weight-inclusive & trauma-informed.
As an experienced family therapist in CAMHS and private practice, I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 14 years. I specialise in working with relationships, self-harm, mood difficulties, emotional dysregulation and eating and body image difficulties. Alongside working with families and couples, I have a particular interest in supporting clients who are neurodiverse, diagnosed or self-diagnosed, to live in an authentic and unmasked way that aligns with their values. I provide a compassionate and open space and embrace working in a neuro-affirming way to support you to feel empowered and heard.
As an experienced family therapist in CAMHS and private practice, I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 14 years. I specialise in working with relationships, self-harm, mood difficulties, emotional dysregulation and eating and body image difficulties. Alongside working with families and couples, I have a particular interest in supporting clients who are neurodiverse, diagnosed or self-diagnosed, to live in an authentic and unmasked way that aligns with their values. I provide a compassionate and open space and embrace working in a neuro-affirming way to support you to feel empowered and heard.
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma. I offer both short term, goal focussed work, as well as longer term therapy, depending on your needs. I have a keen interest in working with those who are neurodiverse, as well as supporting those who live with someone who is neurodiverse. As a supervisor, I will work collaboratively with you to explore all aspects of working as a practitioner to support your continuing, ongoing development.
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma. I offer both short term, goal focussed work, as well as longer term therapy, depending on your needs. I have a keen interest in working with those who are neurodiverse, as well as supporting those who live with someone who is neurodiverse. As a supervisor, I will work collaboratively with you to explore all aspects of working as a practitioner to support your continuing, ongoing development.
Identifying the thoughts, feelings and inner struggles that are holding you back can be daunting, but my role is to walk alongside you, enabling you to find clarity, calm, and good mental health. Central to my counselling ethos is the importance of creating a safe, non-judgemental place, where you are free to be yourself, and to explore any aspect of life that is important to you.
Identifying the thoughts, feelings and inner struggles that are holding you back can be daunting, but my role is to walk alongside you, enabling you to find clarity, calm, and good mental health. Central to my counselling ethos is the importance of creating a safe, non-judgemental place, where you are free to be yourself, and to explore any aspect of life that is important to you.
Do you or your young person feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you finding it hard to cope with the demands of everyday life? Coming to see a counsellor is a brave step towards making a change. What if you felt calmer and more in control? What difference would that make? If any of this sounds familiar you may benefit from counselling. I believe the potential is within you, but sometimes hard to find or access. Counselling is a form of healing and I believe the relationship between a therapist and client can help you move towards better ways of coping, improving self-confidence, self-worth and living a more fulfilling life.
Do you or your young person feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you finding it hard to cope with the demands of everyday life? Coming to see a counsellor is a brave step towards making a change. What if you felt calmer and more in control? What difference would that make? If any of this sounds familiar you may benefit from counselling. I believe the potential is within you, but sometimes hard to find or access. Counselling is a form of healing and I believe the relationship between a therapist and client can help you move towards better ways of coping, improving self-confidence, self-worth and living a more fulfilling life.
15 Second Videos
This Is Me Psychology
The Holistic Therapist
Mel Ciavucco - eating disorders and body image
Loraine (Lori) Donohue
James Pegg
Kate Haskell
Heather Beveridge
Justine Fitzgerald
Jessica Sings
Sarah Finch
Helen Hoyte Wellbeing
Heather Cowie
Rosalind Townsend
Shane FitzGerald
The most important thing first: No matter what place you’re in - there is hope for change and for things to get better. You may be reading this feeling vulnerable, disempowered, dejected, fearing disappointment or simply too overwhelmed to know how you feel. I'll meet you wherever you are and with whatever you bring and we can walk through your confusion and distress together. I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of people with an equally diverse range of individual challenges. Spending time exploring your challenges can bring clarity, empower you to break with old patterns and help you find a positive way forward.
The most important thing first: No matter what place you’re in - there is hope for change and for things to get better. You may be reading this feeling vulnerable, disempowered, dejected, fearing disappointment or simply too overwhelmed to know how you feel. I'll meet you wherever you are and with whatever you bring and we can walk through your confusion and distress together. I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of people with an equally diverse range of individual challenges. Spending time exploring your challenges can bring clarity, empower you to break with old patterns and help you find a positive way forward.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, and I am here to listen and support you to ‘unpack’ the thoughts, feelings and emotions that may have become painful, ignored, too heavy to carry, or silenced. Together we can work towards a better understanding of what has brought you here, and to enable the comfort and relief necessary to move forward. I welcome you to share what is going on for you in a calm, safe and confidential space. This is your space and your time to be heard.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, and I am here to listen and support you to ‘unpack’ the thoughts, feelings and emotions that may have become painful, ignored, too heavy to carry, or silenced. Together we can work towards a better understanding of what has brought you here, and to enable the comfort and relief necessary to move forward. I welcome you to share what is going on for you in a calm, safe and confidential space. This is your space and your time to be heard.
Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCPS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCPS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
What does it mean to be yourself in a society that discourages self-expression? To live in a world that disconnects us from each other and from ourselves. A world that distracts us from what’s important and meaningful. The messages we receive from people is not ‘be who you are’, but instead ‘be what I need’. In such a place, being ourselves is a revolutionary act. In what ways are people telling us to be what they need? I’m glad you asked. It can be as simple as a raised eyebrow, or a disparaging look. Or more obvious do’s and don’ts. We get the message.
What does it mean to be yourself in a society that discourages self-expression? To live in a world that disconnects us from each other and from ourselves. A world that distracts us from what’s important and meaningful. The messages we receive from people is not ‘be who you are’, but instead ‘be what I need’. In such a place, being ourselves is a revolutionary act. In what ways are people telling us to be what they need? I’m glad you asked. It can be as simple as a raised eyebrow, or a disparaging look. Or more obvious do’s and don’ts. We get the message.
Hello. My name is Lou. I would like to support you. If you are feeling vulnerable or are in need of some help; maybe things are no longer in your control, than please get in touch. Not being able to trust or understand your own thoughts and feelings, yet finding yourself stuck in them, can be very overwhelming and I would like to support and help you find some peace and calm, so you can re-connect to yourself and your world around you again without so much pain, fear or sadness. I am available face to face in Exminster, as well as Telephone or Online via Zoom. Email me for further details or visit my website.
Hello. My name is Lou. I would like to support you. If you are feeling vulnerable or are in need of some help; maybe things are no longer in your control, than please get in touch. Not being able to trust or understand your own thoughts and feelings, yet finding yourself stuck in them, can be very overwhelming and I would like to support and help you find some peace and calm, so you can re-connect to yourself and your world around you again without so much pain, fear or sadness. I am available face to face in Exminster, as well as Telephone or Online via Zoom. Email me for further details or visit my website.
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
Hello; a warm welcome to my profile. Perhaps you are trying to change something in your life; perhaps you are wanting to give up old habits or create new ones. Maybe you are struggling with something, or perhaps you just want to take a look at your life and assess or reassess it. Together we can work out a way forward; by looking at and following your cues, which you may or may not be aware of right now, we can map a path that feels right for you. I truly believe that everyone carries their own answers within them; we just need to find out what they are!
Hello; a warm welcome to my profile. Perhaps you are trying to change something in your life; perhaps you are wanting to give up old habits or create new ones. Maybe you are struggling with something, or perhaps you just want to take a look at your life and assess or reassess it. Together we can work out a way forward; by looking at and following your cues, which you may or may not be aware of right now, we can map a path that feels right for you. I truly believe that everyone carries their own answers within them; we just need to find out what they are!
Hiya I am a fully qualified counsellor with experience of working with adults & young people from aged 13 yrs. I offer a FREE 15 minute call. I support with a range of complexities such as;•Attachment•Separation&Social Anxiety, Family Reactions to MH •Anxiety, Depression & High-Functioning Depression •Bereavement & Loss •Trauma & Childhood Trauma & Abuse •Domestic Abuse •Racial identity •Disability Discrimination •Low Self Esteem & Low Self Worth •Personality & Narcissistic Pers Disorder •Dissociative & Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder •Opp Defiant Disor & ADHD. I believe that we all have the right 2 speak & be heard in a safe space.
Hiya I am a fully qualified counsellor with experience of working with adults & young people from aged 13 yrs. I offer a FREE 15 minute call. I support with a range of complexities such as;•Attachment•Separation&Social Anxiety, Family Reactions to MH •Anxiety, Depression & High-Functioning Depression •Bereavement & Loss •Trauma & Childhood Trauma & Abuse •Domestic Abuse •Racial identity •Disability Discrimination •Low Self Esteem & Low Self Worth •Personality & Narcissistic Pers Disorder •Dissociative & Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder •Opp Defiant Disor & ADHD. I believe that we all have the right 2 speak & be heard in a safe space.
See more therapy options for Exeter
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Exeter
- Ashburton
- Crediton
- Cullompton
- Exmouth
- Honiton
- Newton Abbot
- Sidmouth
- South Molton
- Teignmouth
- Tiverton
- Topsham
- Wellington
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.