Autism Counselling in Alfreton

Photo of Samantha Martin, Counsellor, MBACP
Samantha Martin
Counsellor, MBACP
Alfreton DE55
I'm grateful to my clients who have trusted me to support them through a wide range of mental health needs. It's not always easy to trust, especially when life becomes challenging. I strive to build a positive therapeutic relationship with clients, where they can feel safe, unjudged and accepted. Previous clients have used this space to work with bereavement, anxiety, depression, food aversion, environmental sensitivities, neurodiversity, bullying, change in circumstances, relationship dynamics and many other areas. Alongside adults, check out the Gallery to see what therapy might look like for young people and children.
I'm grateful to my clients who have trusted me to support them through a wide range of mental health needs. It's not always easy to trust, especially when life becomes challenging. I strive to build a positive therapeutic relationship with clients, where they can feel safe, unjudged and accepted. Previous clients have used this space to work with bereavement, anxiety, depression, food aversion, environmental sensitivities, neurodiversity, bullying, change in circumstances, relationship dynamics and many other areas. Alongside adults, check out the Gallery to see what therapy might look like for young people and children.
07453 527744 View 07453 527744
Photo of Chloe Hallatt, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Chloe Hallatt
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Alfreton DE55
A neurodivergent psychotherapist and dog-mum of 2, living and working in Derbyshire.
Before psychotherapy, I qualified as a teacher & tutored children and young people privately, up to the age of 16. A main part of that role was supporting young people through exam stress, hormonal changes, friendship worries and more. So after a small break whilst I finished my training, I'm thrilled to share I am now able to work therapeutically with C&YP
A neurodivergent psychotherapist and dog-mum of 2, living and working in Derbyshire.
Before psychotherapy, I qualified as a teacher & tutored children and young people privately, up to the age of 16. A main part of that role was supporting young people through exam stress, hormonal changes, friendship worries and more. So after a small break whilst I finished my training, I'm thrilled to share I am now able to work therapeutically with C&YP
07359 674801 View 07359 674801
Photo of Maddy Drury - Spiritwell Counselling, Counsellor, BACP
Spiritwell Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Alfreton DE55
I also work with many clients who have autism and ADHD.
Welcome To Spiritwell. I'm Maddy and I work as a therapeutic counsellor, supporting both adults and young people, from 11 years. Based on the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire border, I offer appointments either face to face, over the phone or via video chat. I also offer an optional, free, 30 minute telephone introduction. Please note that my reply to email enquiries may initially go into your spam or junk folder!
I also work with many clients who have autism and ADHD.
Welcome To Spiritwell. I'm Maddy and I work as a therapeutic counsellor, supporting both adults and young people, from 11 years. Based on the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire border, I offer appointments either face to face, over the phone or via video chat. I also offer an optional, free, 30 minute telephone introduction. Please note that my reply to email enquiries may initially go into your spam or junk folder!
01623 701272 View 01623 701272
Photo of Simon Lowe, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Simon Lowe
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi I’m Simon, I support others through the challenges and difficulties that life can bring. I understand the thought of starting therapy can feel uncomfortable, having experienced this myself, I have trodden the path of personal therapy too. I wish to make the counselling experience as inviting, safe and comfortable as I can for you. I offer a confidential space for you to explore personal challenges, a space where you will be valued, not judged, and listened to, creating a foundation for growth and change.
Hi I’m Simon, I support others through the challenges and difficulties that life can bring. I understand the thought of starting therapy can feel uncomfortable, having experienced this myself, I have trodden the path of personal therapy too. I wish to make the counselling experience as inviting, safe and comfortable as I can for you. I offer a confidential space for you to explore personal challenges, a space where you will be valued, not judged, and listened to, creating a foundation for growth and change.
020 8138 8635 View 020 8138 8635
Photo of Lisa Wakefield, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Lisa Wakefield
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I am an accredited psychotherapist/counsellor, and a licensed practitioner in eating disorders with many years of experience working with adults, teenagers/adolescents, as well as couples and families. I have enhanced DBS clearance and I am fully insured. I work from home in a room that is a therapeutic, private space for clients to explore their personal experiences. I have regular supervision to ensure best practice. I am offering online sessions from 8am daily.
I am an accredited psychotherapist/counsellor, and a licensed practitioner in eating disorders with many years of experience working with adults, teenagers/adolescents, as well as couples and families. I have enhanced DBS clearance and I am fully insured. I work from home in a room that is a therapeutic, private space for clients to explore their personal experiences. I have regular supervision to ensure best practice. I am offering online sessions from 8am daily.
01773 308424 View 01773 308424
Photo of Andrew G Smith, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Andrew G Smith
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Serves Area
Are anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, or unwanted habits holding you back? Many of us face challenges that can feel overwhelming, affecting not only our own well-being but also our relationships and daily lives. You don’t have to navigate these difficulties alone. Whether you are seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply pursuing personal growth, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns and develop practical strategies for change. Together, we can help you move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Are anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, or unwanted habits holding you back? Many of us face challenges that can feel overwhelming, affecting not only our own well-being but also our relationships and daily lives. You don’t have to navigate these difficulties alone. Whether you are seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply pursuing personal growth, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns and develop practical strategies for change. Together, we can help you move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
01773 307014 View 01773 307014
Photo of Sally Wigginton, Psychotherapist, PTUK
Sally Wigginton
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Serves Area
Children and young people often communicate what they are feeling through play, creativity, behaviour, and connection rather than words alone. When a child is struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, emotional overwhelm, or difficult life experiences, it can affect the whole family and leave everyone feeling unsure of how to help. I offer a warm, safe, and nurturing space where children can explore their feelings in ways that feel natural to them, helping them feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Children and young people often communicate what they are feeling through play, creativity, behaviour, and connection rather than words alone. When a child is struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, emotional overwhelm, or difficult life experiences, it can affect the whole family and leave everyone feeling unsure of how to help. I offer a warm, safe, and nurturing space where children can explore their feelings in ways that feel natural to them, helping them feel understood, supported, and empowered.
01434 303778 View 01434 303778
Photo of Debra Newton, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Debra Newton
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Hello my name is Debra. Would you like a quiet and relaxed space where you can begin to explore whatever is on your mind. I am committed to providing confidentiality and empathy in a non-judgmental and safe environment to help you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences and feel empowered in your chosen way forward. Counselling can help with many problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, disability, life stages, changes and adjustments and help with self-esteem and confidence feelings and other personal issues. I qualified as a Counsellor in 2003 and work in a person centred way.
Hello my name is Debra. Would you like a quiet and relaxed space where you can begin to explore whatever is on your mind. I am committed to providing confidentiality and empathy in a non-judgmental and safe environment to help you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences and feel empowered in your chosen way forward. Counselling can help with many problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, disability, life stages, changes and adjustments and help with self-esteem and confidence feelings and other personal issues. I qualified as a Counsellor in 2003 and work in a person centred way.
07723 456052 View 07723 456052

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara Bartlett Brown, Counsellor, MBACP
Sara Bartlett Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with autistic & neurodivergent people.
Living and working alongside neurodivergent individuals for many years has given me the opportunity to develop a respectful, helpful & humble understanding of how to adapt therapy practice to suit the unique needs of each person I meet. I've completed a Post Grad Cert in Autism with Dr Luke Beardon and I read widely writing and research in this area.
I specialise in working with autistic & neurodivergent people.
Living and working alongside neurodivergent individuals for many years has given me the opportunity to develop a respectful, helpful & humble understanding of how to adapt therapy practice to suit the unique needs of each person I meet. I've completed a Post Grad Cert in Autism with Dr Luke Beardon and I read widely writing and research in this area.
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Photo of Laura Elizabeth Donaldson - Led Therapies Psychology , Psychologist, GMBPsS
Led Therapies Psychology
Psychologist, GMBPsS
I am a Neurodivergent Developmental Psychologist specialising in ADHD/ASC working with pre/teenagers and adults who are looking to develop a better understanding of how to manage and work towards overcoming their challenges.
Sessions feel welcoming, validating and free to talk without judgement. I understand how as an adult/parent we can become ‘stuck’ in unhelpful patterns of behaviours and talking about them in sessions can feel exposing and raw. I offer parent sessions to deep dive into issues at home and school. I also write to schools/college/work/etc with recommendations.
I am a Neurodivergent Developmental Psychologist specialising in ADHD/ASC working with pre/teenagers and adults who are looking to develop a better understanding of how to manage and work towards overcoming their challenges.
Sessions feel welcoming, validating and free to talk without judgement. I understand how as an adult/parent we can become ‘stuck’ in unhelpful patterns of behaviours and talking about them in sessions can feel exposing and raw. I offer parent sessions to deep dive into issues at home and school. I also write to schools/college/work/etc with recommendations.
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Photo of Dawn Saxton - Dawn Saxton Counselling/ EMDR , Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Dawn Saxton Counselling/ EMDR
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
As a neuro-affirming therapist, I focus on empowerment and strengths, while recognising and respecting the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals may face.
Hello, and a warm welcome. I'm an experienced, accredited therapist and EMDR Practitioner. At the heart of my work is a deep sense of empathy and a trauma-informed approach that honours each person's unique story, pace, and healing journey. With warmth and care, I’ll support you on your journey toward the changes you want to see in your life. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, make sense of your challenges, and find practical steps to build resilience, healthy coping strategies, and a deeper understanding of yourself.
As a neuro-affirming therapist, I focus on empowerment and strengths, while recognising and respecting the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals may face.
Hello, and a warm welcome. I'm an experienced, accredited therapist and EMDR Practitioner. At the heart of my work is a deep sense of empathy and a trauma-informed approach that honours each person's unique story, pace, and healing journey. With warmth and care, I’ll support you on your journey toward the changes you want to see in your life. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, make sense of your challenges, and find practical steps to build resilience, healthy coping strategies, and a deeper understanding of yourself.
01226 445337 View 01226 445337
Photo of Clara Peiro-Timoner, Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Clara Peiro-Timoner
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Being neurodivergent myself, I've been drawn to work with autism, ADHD and other neurotypes, as well as the gender, sexuality, kink, and relationship diversity (polyamory/non-monogamy) community, including sex workers.
I believe that every person has the inner wisdom and potential to create a fulfilling life for themselves. However, at some point, most of us will find that we need external perspective and a space to explore issues that might make us feel stuck or hopeless. To me, counselling is a collaborative and creative relational process, and my role within it is to help people find their own personal power and joy, no matter their circumstances. I'm an energetic practitioner who will laugh and get excited with you, but also respect your rhythm and create space for grief, pain and stuckness, for as long as it's needed.
Being neurodivergent myself, I've been drawn to work with autism, ADHD and other neurotypes, as well as the gender, sexuality, kink, and relationship diversity (polyamory/non-monogamy) community, including sex workers.
I believe that every person has the inner wisdom and potential to create a fulfilling life for themselves. However, at some point, most of us will find that we need external perspective and a space to explore issues that might make us feel stuck or hopeless. To me, counselling is a collaborative and creative relational process, and my role within it is to help people find their own personal power and joy, no matter their circumstances. I'm an energetic practitioner who will laugh and get excited with you, but also respect your rhythm and create space for grief, pain and stuckness, for as long as it's needed.
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Photo of Ian Alexander - Found Art Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Found Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Is life sometimes too much? Perhaps you feel you’re performing life rather than living it, or find yourself pulling away from people or losing your temper? Do you feel a need to live up to silent or obscure expectations, put on a brave face or often feel misunderstood? If you’re tired of the same cycles and want a different path to walk, let's take the journey together. I offer a warm and grounding presence in which we’ll use your creativity and a variety of art therapy approaches to safely explore the issues you bring and work towards your therapeutic goals.
Is life sometimes too much? Perhaps you feel you’re performing life rather than living it, or find yourself pulling away from people or losing your temper? Do you feel a need to live up to silent or obscure expectations, put on a brave face or often feel misunderstood? If you’re tired of the same cycles and want a different path to walk, let's take the journey together. I offer a warm and grounding presence in which we’ll use your creativity and a variety of art therapy approaches to safely explore the issues you bring and work towards your therapeutic goals.
0114 697 4726 View 0114 697 4726
Photo of Kirsty Anne Rusby, Counsellor, MBACP
Kirsty Anne Rusby
Counsellor, MBACP
I also work heavily with clients who are a person with autism and also ADHD.
I am an experienced counsellor. I’m here to help you talk through your worries, focus on your goals and help you work to achieve them. I will listen with respect, not judge you, I can help you take the next steps on your personal journey.
I also work heavily with clients who are a person with autism and also ADHD.
I am an experienced counsellor. I’m here to help you talk through your worries, focus on your goals and help you work to achieve them. I will listen with respect, not judge you, I can help you take the next steps on your personal journey.
01302 490801 View 01302 490801
Photo of Rosie Hancock, Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Rosie Hancock
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
I appreciate you pausing here - I specialise in supporting neurodivergent people or their families but can support anyone to live more comfortably with feelings of discomfort, overwhelm/burn out, confusion, stress, anxiety/panic or hopelessness.
I offer back and forth discussion, laughter and celebration of positives, with no painful silences. I work collaboratively to share power, exploring situations and feelings with you. I aim to offer you a safe, negotiated space where you can be your authentic self. I will be non-judgemental, calm and open to all that you are experiencing or have experienced.
I appreciate you pausing here - I specialise in supporting neurodivergent people or their families but can support anyone to live more comfortably with feelings of discomfort, overwhelm/burn out, confusion, stress, anxiety/panic or hopelessness.
I offer back and forth discussion, laughter and celebration of positives, with no painful silences. I work collaboratively to share power, exploring situations and feelings with you. I aim to offer you a safe, negotiated space where you can be your authentic self. I will be non-judgemental, calm and open to all that you are experiencing or have experienced.
0114 697 5796 View 0114 697 5796
Photo of Caroline Smith - Te Video Counselling. Caroline Smith., Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Te Video Counselling. Caroline Smith.
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Specialise in working with late diagnosed/realised neurodivergent adults, chronic illness, chronic pain conditions and hormonal challenges, childhood trauma, burnout and narcissistic abuse.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I offer a unique tailored service to suit your individual needs. Offering person centred talk therapy, compassion focused therapy, expressive therapies, body based focusing and breathworks depending on what works for you. Offering compassion and curiosity to every session. Sliding scale based on personal finances. £35-£65.
Specialise in working with late diagnosed/realised neurodivergent adults, chronic illness, chronic pain conditions and hormonal challenges, childhood trauma, burnout and narcissistic abuse.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I offer a unique tailored service to suit your individual needs. Offering person centred talk therapy, compassion focused therapy, expressive therapies, body based focusing and breathworks depending on what works for you. Offering compassion and curiosity to every session. Sliding scale based on personal finances. £35-£65.
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Photo of Sarah Wittams-Howarth, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Sarah Wittams-Howarth
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
My clients are people seeking a calm, accepting space to explore relationship issues, neurodivergence, identity questions including LGBTQ+, grief, trauma, anxiety, or overwhelm who value a relationally focused collaborative approach that adapts to their needs. Their goals often include easing distress or stuckness, understanding patterns, finding ways forward and steadiness during times of transition, and feeling more connected to themselves and others. Above all, they want to feel seen, supported, and able to grow at their own pace with a therapist who meets them with warmth, curiosity and respect.
My clients are people seeking a calm, accepting space to explore relationship issues, neurodivergence, identity questions including LGBTQ+, grief, trauma, anxiety, or overwhelm who value a relationally focused collaborative approach that adapts to their needs. Their goals often include easing distress or stuckness, understanding patterns, finding ways forward and steadiness during times of transition, and feeling more connected to themselves and others. Above all, they want to feel seen, supported, and able to grow at their own pace with a therapist who meets them with warmth, curiosity and respect.
0114 697 1151 View 0114 697 1151
Photo of Dr Jeremy Rowe, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Jeremy Rowe
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I am Clinical Director of Ark Psychology, a specialist practice offering therapy, ADHD coaching, and comprehensive ADHD and autism assessments for children, adolescents and adults, alongside family and couples therapy.
I have extensive experience treating OCD, including POCD, HOCD/SO-OCD, ROCD, scrupulosity, false memory, real event and sensorimotor OCD. Treatment focuses on Rumination-Focused ERP to help you disengage from compulsive thinking and regain a sense of agency. I also offer ADHD coaching and comprehensive ADHD and autism assessments for children and adults
I am Clinical Director of Ark Psychology, a specialist practice offering therapy, ADHD coaching, and comprehensive ADHD and autism assessments for children, adolescents and adults, alongside family and couples therapy.
I have extensive experience treating OCD, including POCD, HOCD/SO-OCD, ROCD, scrupulosity, false memory, real event and sensorimotor OCD. Treatment focuses on Rumination-Focused ERP to help you disengage from compulsive thinking and regain a sense of agency. I also offer ADHD coaching and comprehensive ADHD and autism assessments for children and adults
01273 099539 View 01273 099539
Photo of Leanne Oxley - Go Leor Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Go Leor Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Most people come to me when they have reached a point where insight alone is not enough. They are successful, capable and often appear very composed whilst privately they are overwhelmed with anxiety (often with a financial aspect), relational conflict, burnout, identity shifts, or long standing patterns they cannot seem to change. They have tried managing, coping and pushing through but something deeper needs to be understood. If this is where you find yourself, you are not alone and we can navigate this together. I work well with adults who are reflective and ready to understand themselves at depth.
Most people come to me when they have reached a point where insight alone is not enough. They are successful, capable and often appear very composed whilst privately they are overwhelmed with anxiety (often with a financial aspect), relational conflict, burnout, identity shifts, or long standing patterns they cannot seem to change. They have tried managing, coping and pushing through but something deeper needs to be understood. If this is where you find yourself, you are not alone and we can navigate this together. I work well with adults who are reflective and ready to understand themselves at depth.
01476 852661 View 01476 852661
Photo of Clare Ewers-Archer, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Clare Ewers-Archer
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
I have specialist training and experience working with young people, as well as adults and young people with autism.
I am a BSc (Hons) qualified Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Nottingham. I specialize in helping you to discover your true self by exploring hidden depths and supporting you with the issues that are causing you discomfort, anxiety, and stress. I work from a relational, person-centred perspective; integrating and tailoring therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs and goals. I recognise that seeking counselling and psychotherapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing process.
I have specialist training and experience working with young people, as well as adults and young people with autism.
I am a BSc (Hons) qualified Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Nottingham. I specialize in helping you to discover your true self by exploring hidden depths and supporting you with the issues that are causing you discomfort, anxiety, and stress. I work from a relational, person-centred perspective; integrating and tailoring therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs and goals. I recognise that seeking counselling and psychotherapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing process.
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Autism Counsellors
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

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

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

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