Autism Counselling in Ashbourne

Dr Melita Ash, Percuro Psychology
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many of the families I work with are supporting teenagers who are autistic, ADHD, or exploring whether neurodivergence may be part of the picture.
I’m Dr Melita Ash, HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist and founder of Percuro Psychology. I support anxious and/ or neurodivergent adolescents and their parents through parent consultations and psychological therapy for tweens and teens, alongside autism and ADHD assessments and post diagnosis support that provides clarity and guidance for families.
Many of the families I work with are supporting teenagers who are autistic, ADHD, or exploring whether neurodivergence may be part of the picture.
I’m Dr Melita Ash, HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist and founder of Percuro Psychology. I support anxious and/ or neurodivergent adolescents and their parents through parent consultations and psychological therapy for tweens and teens, alongside autism and ADHD assessments and post diagnosis support that provides clarity and guidance for families.
07480 789538 View 07480 789538
Marta Perestrello
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced and highly qualified art psychotherapist. I offer in person and online psychotherapy, clinical supervision, parent and professional consultation. I work with young people and adults in person from Derby or online from where ever you live, work or travel to. Contact me to arrange a free Introductory Meeting to talk through your needs and agree on the best plan forward before committing to any work.
I am an experienced and highly qualified art psychotherapist. I offer in person and online psychotherapy, clinical supervision, parent and professional consultation. I work with young people and adults in person from Derby or online from where ever you live, work or travel to. Contact me to arrange a free Introductory Meeting to talk through your needs and agree on the best plan forward before committing to any work.
07480 485905 View 07480 485905
Helen Joy Green
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello and welcome, We all deserve a helping hand. Someone to lead us through the dark times. I believe I can offer this, by sharing my 16 years of practice. This has provided me with a vast experience/knowledge of working with adults, couples and young people. My passion is in the belief that we have the ability to grow and reach our potential. I work with compassion, genuineness and have a real passion for the effectiveness of the counselling process. I am a highly a sensitive person which helps me to empathise with others deeply. I value indifference and work in a non judgemental way.
Hello and welcome, We all deserve a helping hand. Someone to lead us through the dark times. I believe I can offer this, by sharing my 16 years of practice. This has provided me with a vast experience/knowledge of working with adults, couples and young people. My passion is in the belief that we have the ability to grow and reach our potential. I work with compassion, genuineness and have a real passion for the effectiveness of the counselling process. I am a highly a sensitive person which helps me to empathise with others deeply. I value indifference and work in a non judgemental way.
01782 983552 View 01782 983552
CBT & Emdr Therapist ADHD, Anxiety, Mood & Trauma
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work within evidence-based models, adapting how we use them to individual needs, including for neurodivergent clients.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’ve been coping on your own for too long? I’m Lucia, a BABCP-accredited CBT therapist and EMDR practitioner offering online therapy across the UK. With over 13 years’ experience in mental health and specialist NHS CBT services, I work with anxiety, trauma, mood difficulties and problems that can feel complex or hard to shift. My approach is practical and down-to earth, helping you understand what’s keeping you stuck and find a way forward that feels manageable.
I work within evidence-based models, adapting how we use them to individual needs, including for neurodivergent clients.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’ve been coping on your own for too long? I’m Lucia, a BABCP-accredited CBT therapist and EMDR practitioner offering online therapy across the UK. With over 13 years’ experience in mental health and specialist NHS CBT services, I work with anxiety, trauma, mood difficulties and problems that can feel complex or hard to shift. My approach is practical and down-to earth, helping you understand what’s keeping you stuck and find a way forward that feels manageable.
01332 529660 View 01332 529660
Dr Andy Adams
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
With child and adolescent mental health, I offer therapy and can provide a comprehensive assessment for ASD, ADHD, and other neurodiverse issues.
With over 14 years clinical experience, working with clients in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada! He has worked in both the National Health Service (NHS) and in private practice. He is fully qualified as a HCPC registered (PYL32555) Clinical Psychologist and works with a wide range of mental health issues.
With child and adolescent mental health, I offer therapy and can provide a comprehensive assessment for ASD, ADHD, and other neurodiverse issues.
With over 14 years clinical experience, working with clients in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada! He has worked in both the National Health Service (NHS) and in private practice. He is fully qualified as a HCPC registered (PYL32555) Clinical Psychologist and works with a wide range of mental health issues.
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Kirsty Turner
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
At times, we can feel overwhelmed by the events and demands facing us. Life can feel daunting, and we can lose trust in ourselves to find a way forward. We can neglect ourselves and ignore areas of our lives that are painful. We may notice beliefs and habits we are stuck with that are holding us back from living life fully. Psychotherapy can help unravel the patterns we are caught in. Learning to pay attention to ourselves in a supportive space can help us to shift our perspective and find new directions. We can develop a compassionate relationship with ourselves that will help generate new energy to overcome our obstacles.
At times, we can feel overwhelmed by the events and demands facing us. Life can feel daunting, and we can lose trust in ourselves to find a way forward. We can neglect ourselves and ignore areas of our lives that are painful. We may notice beliefs and habits we are stuck with that are holding us back from living life fully. Psychotherapy can help unravel the patterns we are caught in. Learning to pay attention to ourselves in a supportive space can help us to shift our perspective and find new directions. We can develop a compassionate relationship with ourselves that will help generate new energy to overcome our obstacles.
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Dr Jennifer Kelly
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Jen, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years' experience working in adult mental health. Sometimes we all need a bit of help to make sense of what life throws at us, or to cope with difficult feelings. If you’re struggling with anxiety or low mood, relationship problems, or coming to terms with difficult past experiences, then psychological therapy might be for you. I work with people with a wide range of difficulties and complex needs, from age 16 upwards. You can be sure that therapy with me will be confidential, and you will be treated with non-judgemental respect and compassion.
Hello, I’m Jen, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years' experience working in adult mental health. Sometimes we all need a bit of help to make sense of what life throws at us, or to cope with difficult feelings. If you’re struggling with anxiety or low mood, relationship problems, or coming to terms with difficult past experiences, then psychological therapy might be for you. I work with people with a wide range of difficulties and complex needs, from age 16 upwards. You can be sure that therapy with me will be confidential, and you will be treated with non-judgemental respect and compassion.
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More Therapists Nearby

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
Krieanna Johnson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Neurodivergent?
Fully accredited with the BABCP, I offer NICE guideline based treatments for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent parent, with neurodivergent children, and having worked with multiple neurodivergent people, I have a unique perspective and understanding of common difficulties and adaptations for therapy that can help.
Neurodivergent?
Fully accredited with the BABCP, I offer NICE guideline based treatments for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent parent, with neurodivergent children, and having worked with multiple neurodivergent people, I have a unique perspective and understanding of common difficulties and adaptations for therapy that can help.
01302 490855 View 01302 490855
Joanne Wright
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Serves Area
As well as working with anxiety, depression, trauma or stress, I also specialise in working with individuals and families affected by Autism.
I am an effective, qualified and competent Registered Psychologist, coach and trauma therapist. I am regulated by the highest regulatory body, the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). I receive regular personal supervision to ensure I always deliver the best service to my clients. I utilise CBT, EMDR, NLP coaching, mindfulness and relaxation into sessions
As well as working with anxiety, depression, trauma or stress, I also specialise in working with individuals and families affected by Autism.
I am an effective, qualified and competent Registered Psychologist, coach and trauma therapist. I am regulated by the highest regulatory body, the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). I receive regular personal supervision to ensure I always deliver the best service to my clients. I utilise CBT, EMDR, NLP coaching, mindfulness and relaxation into sessions
01785 335997 View 01785 335997
Ruby Rainbow Willows
Counsellor, MBACP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I also support neurodivergent clients, drawing on my lived experience as an AuDHD counsellor
Is something in your life feeling stuck or anxiety ridden? Together we can look at what the stuckness is and untangle it. I facilitate support for you to talk about what's bothering you one step at a time. I offer a warm, accepting space where you can be yourself and explore what is going on for you at your own pace. My approach is relational, showing my humanness and not hiding behind a facade of theory. I listen not only to what is said, but also to the emotions and meaning behind it. I may gently reflect what I notice or ask questions to help you explore things differently, a bit like holding up a mirror to you.
I also support neurodivergent clients, drawing on my lived experience as an AuDHD counsellor
Is something in your life feeling stuck or anxiety ridden? Together we can look at what the stuckness is and untangle it. I facilitate support for you to talk about what's bothering you one step at a time. I offer a warm, accepting space where you can be yourself and explore what is going on for you at your own pace. My approach is relational, showing my humanness and not hiding behind a facade of theory. I listen not only to what is said, but also to the emotions and meaning behind it. I may gently reflect what I notice or ask questions to help you explore things differently, a bit like holding up a mirror to you.
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Gordon Thomas
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I have an interest in working with neurodivergent clients although everyone is welcome.
I work with my clients in a supportive, non-judgemental and relational manner. It is a privilege to listen to people’s problems and I believe in the power of therapy. I will listen to what you have to say and support you to a deeper understand of yourself and your life. I work with clients in a warm and friendly way. I have experience in student support in a university setting, and in grief and bereavement counselling. I also offer general, open-ended therapy.
I have an interest in working with neurodivergent clients although everyone is welcome.
I work with my clients in a supportive, non-judgemental and relational manner. It is a privilege to listen to people’s problems and I believe in the power of therapy. I will listen to what you have to say and support you to a deeper understand of yourself and your life. I work with clients in a warm and friendly way. I have experience in student support in a university setting, and in grief and bereavement counselling. I also offer general, open-ended therapy.
0115 647 8316 View 0115 647 8316
Natalie Quinlan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Maybe you’re just experiencing being neurodivergent in a world not made for you.
As a therapist, my goal is to really help you understand yourself and I work hard to build a relationship where you feel comfortable being You. My special interests are Autism and ADHD and I help you explore and make sense of yourself in a world designed for neurotypicals. There is nothing wrong with you, we're just different and that's okay.
Maybe you’re just experiencing being neurodivergent in a world not made for you.
As a therapist, my goal is to really help you understand yourself and I work hard to build a relationship where you feel comfortable being You. My special interests are Autism and ADHD and I help you explore and make sense of yourself in a world designed for neurotypicals. There is nothing wrong with you, we're just different and that's okay.
01733 964738 View 01733 964738
Catherine Kniveton
Psychotherapist, MA
I have a passion for specialising in trauma work, shame, ADHD, & ASD.
Hello I’m Catherine, masters level experienced EMDR therapist , Psychotherapist & clinical supervisor & co-owner of Twice Translated mental health podcast. I provide a safe confidential space with compassionate & empathetic support: I am here to listen. I know it can be scary to reach out for support. Feel free to contact me regarding any questions. I have specialisms in EMDR & Art Therapy to support & work extensively in trauma, shame & compassionate reframing. I own CK Therapy in Ashby with a team of 11 therapists offering couples, DBT, Music, play & more if you have any interests in these I can support you. Registered with HCPC.
I have a passion for specialising in trauma work, shame, ADHD, & ASD.
Hello I’m Catherine, masters level experienced EMDR therapist , Psychotherapist & clinical supervisor & co-owner of Twice Translated mental health podcast. I provide a safe confidential space with compassionate & empathetic support: I am here to listen. I know it can be scary to reach out for support. Feel free to contact me regarding any questions. I have specialisms in EMDR & Art Therapy to support & work extensively in trauma, shame & compassionate reframing. I own CK Therapy in Ashby with a team of 11 therapists offering couples, DBT, Music, play & more if you have any interests in these I can support you. Registered with HCPC.
07730 569162 View 07730 569162
Lucy Prokic
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I also work a lot with people who identify as neurodivergent.
Life can be hard, right? Do you feel like you're struggling to cope with the day to day, like you don't feel like yourself? Maybe you've experienced trauma and need a safe place to work through that, or are you experiencing mental health difficulties for the first time such as anxiety or depression? Well, these are some of the many things that therapy can help with.
I also work a lot with people who identify as neurodivergent.
Life can be hard, right? Do you feel like you're struggling to cope with the day to day, like you don't feel like yourself? Maybe you've experienced trauma and need a safe place to work through that, or are you experiencing mental health difficulties for the first time such as anxiety or depression? Well, these are some of the many things that therapy can help with.
01785 335804 View 01785 335804
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
Garden Shed Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Derby DE23
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience of working with neurodiversity - such as ADHD, ASD, sensory processing difficulties and select mutism, in adults, young people and children.
No matter what your age, we all need someone who will listen, but sometimes we need someone that not only listens, but can help us to explore and understand the difficulties we may find in our lives. 'Listening is often the only thing needed to help someone' unknown
I have extensive experience of working with neurodiversity - such as ADHD, ASD, sensory processing difficulties and select mutism, in adults, young people and children.
No matter what your age, we all need someone who will listen, but sometimes we need someone that not only listens, but can help us to explore and understand the difficulties we may find in our lives. 'Listening is often the only thing needed to help someone' unknown
01246 607052 View 01246 607052
Karlie Lam
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For people who are facing depression, anxiety or struggling with ASD/ADHD or other mental health issues could be very lonely, the society still have stigma for that.
I completed my undergraduate degree in the UK before returning to Hong Kong for further studies. I then obtained my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in the United States. Three years ago, I relocated to the UK to continue my practice as a therapist. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore solutions or gain new perspectives. I am committed to supporting and encouraging my clients as they navigate their challenges, empowering them when they need it most.
For people who are facing depression, anxiety or struggling with ASD/ADHD or other mental health issues could be very lonely, the society still have stigma for that.
I completed my undergraduate degree in the UK before returning to Hong Kong for further studies. I then obtained my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in the United States. Three years ago, I relocated to the UK to continue my practice as a therapist. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore solutions or gain new perspectives. I am committed to supporting and encouraging my clients as they navigate their challenges, empowering them when they need it most.
01233 542787 View 01233 542787
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Serves Area
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.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia. EXPERT WITNESS ASSESSMENT & MEDICAL EXPERT REPORTS: Psychology expert witness assessments of disability discrimination, personal injury mentally disordered offenders in the criminal justice system, fitness to plead
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.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia. EXPERT WITNESS ASSESSMENT & MEDICAL EXPERT REPORTS: Psychology expert witness assessments of disability discrimination, personal injury mentally disordered offenders in the criminal justice system, fitness to plead
020 3962 0179 View 020 3962 0179
Malina Moris
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work with many clients who identify or are diagnosed autistic and/or ADHD.
I have found my specialism in working with adults who feel unheard or unseen as a result of their history and/or identity. I am a neurodivergent therapist, with a background in relationship diversity. I provide a space where you can feel safe to explore who you are, the struggles you have faced and begin a journey of self-acceptance and growth.
I also work with many clients who identify or are diagnosed autistic and/or ADHD.
I have found my specialism in working with adults who feel unheard or unseen as a result of their history and/or identity. I am a neurodivergent therapist, with a background in relationship diversity. I provide a space where you can feel safe to explore who you are, the struggles you have faced and begin a journey of self-acceptance and growth.
01206 355783 View 01206 355783
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.