Autism Counselling in Belper

Sharlene Rudd
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
" I offer a gentle space to heal from trauma and shame, explore your neurodivergent identity and build self-acceptance, steadier coping and a more authentic sense of who you are.
A warm welcome. I work with people who have felt dismissed, misunderstood or pathologised, particularly individuals navigating identity, trauma and neurodivergence. Alongside private practice, I’ve worked in CAMHS supporting young people in severe mental health crisis, deepening my understanding of distress and the importance of attunement, patience and safety. Through both lived experience and clinical training, I aim to offer a space where you feel genuinely heard, understood and supported as the unique person you are.
" I offer a gentle space to heal from trauma and shame, explore your neurodivergent identity and build self-acceptance, steadier coping and a more authentic sense of who you are.
A warm welcome. I work with people who have felt dismissed, misunderstood or pathologised, particularly individuals navigating identity, trauma and neurodivergence. Alongside private practice, I’ve worked in CAMHS supporting young people in severe mental health crisis, deepening my understanding of distress and the importance of attunement, patience and safety. Through both lived experience and clinical training, I aim to offer a space where you feel genuinely heard, understood and supported as the unique person you are.
01246 956552 View 01246 956552
Amanda Webster
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Amanda has a natural connection with people and is working well with those with ASD and ADHD and has been working for 4 years with various levels of need - she was diagnosed 3 year, so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through the transition process.
I have ADHD and I have studied intensely to ensure my clients get the best possible care and treatment- my youngest client is 3 and my eldest is 86 - Hypnosis and multiple other therapies have been rewritten to help neurodivergent clients understand their needs and the homework is neurodivergent friendly- available 7 days a week when a client needs support.
Amanda has a natural connection with people and is working well with those with ASD and ADHD and has been working for 4 years with various levels of need - she was diagnosed 3 year, so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through the transition process.
I have ADHD and I have studied intensely to ensure my clients get the best possible care and treatment- my youngest client is 3 and my eldest is 86 - Hypnosis and multiple other therapies have been rewritten to help neurodivergent clients understand their needs and the homework is neurodivergent friendly- available 7 days a week when a client needs support.
020 3856 3533 View 020 3856 3533
Kirsty Turner
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Belper DE56
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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Lisa Stevenson
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT Reg.
Online Only
Many of my clients feel stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected — either within themselves or in their relationship. They come to therapy wanting clearer communication, stronger emotional wellbeing, or relief from patterns that keep repeating. I help individuals and couples understand what’s underneath these struggles and support them to build confidence, healthier connection and more stable, fulfilling relationships.
Many of my clients feel stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected — either within themselves or in their relationship. They come to therapy wanting clearer communication, stronger emotional wellbeing, or relief from patterns that keep repeating. I help individuals and couples understand what’s underneath these struggles and support them to build confidence, healthier connection and more stable, fulfilling relationships.
028 2744 1356 View 028 2744 1356
Katie Price
Verified Verified
Belper DE56
I am a qualified play therapist and counsellor based in Derbyshire, working across rural Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands to offer children, young people, and families a safe, nurturing space for emotional growth. My practice is built on the belief that creativity, play, and genuine connection can transform how children understand themselves and their world — especially when words feel too big, too confusing, or too hard to find.Through creative and play‑based approaches, I support children to explore their feelings, build confidence, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop healthier ways of relating to others.
I am a qualified play therapist and counsellor based in Derbyshire, working across rural Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands to offer children, young people, and families a safe, nurturing space for emotional growth. My practice is built on the belief that creativity, play, and genuine connection can transform how children understand themselves and their world — especially when words feel too big, too confusing, or too hard to find.Through creative and play‑based approaches, I support children to explore their feelings, build confidence, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop healthier ways of relating to others.
01773 305956 View 01773 305956
Simon Lowe
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
2 Endorsed
Belper DE56
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
Debra Newton
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Belper DE56
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
Chloe Hallatt
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Belper DE56
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
Sally Wigginton
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Belper DE56
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
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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David Everett
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I am an accredited psychotherapist (MSc, MBACP Accred.) and EMDR-trained therapist (EMDR Europe approved training) with extensive experience across NHS, private, and voluntary sectors since 2008. My background includes inpatient, community, and specialist settings, supporting adults from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds. I have worked as a psychotherapist since 2018 and have helped hundreds of clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and work-related stress. I am an approved therapist with organisations including the Police Firearms Officers’ Association and Derby City Council.
I am an accredited psychotherapist (MSc, MBACP Accred.) and EMDR-trained therapist (EMDR Europe approved training) with extensive experience across NHS, private, and voluntary sectors since 2008. My background includes inpatient, community, and specialist settings, supporting adults from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds. I have worked as a psychotherapist since 2018 and have helped hundreds of clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and work-related stress. I am an approved therapist with organisations including the Police Firearms Officers’ Association and Derby City Council.
07891 391351 View 07891 391351
Tracey Sheldon
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Belper DE56
Not accepting new clients
Hello. I am an experienced, UKCP qualified and accredited psychotherapist and work with both individuals, and couples. My training as an Integrative Psychotherapist draws from a variety of relational psychotherapy approaches and holds the philosophy that change can happen within the therapeutic relationship.
Hello. I am an experienced, UKCP qualified and accredited psychotherapist and work with both individuals, and couples. My training as an Integrative Psychotherapist draws from a variety of relational psychotherapy approaches and holds the philosophy that change can happen within the therapeutic relationship.
020 4538 3915 View 020 4538 3915

More Therapists Nearby

Simon Wainwright
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
My background was for many years in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, in more recent years I have worked in mental health support, working with people who have severe and enduring mental health needs.
Hi I'm Simon, I am here to listen, reflect, discuss and support you with whatever difficulties you may want to bring to therapy. I work with you as an individual to find the best way forward for you, therapy can provide time and space to express things that you need to express, to gain a different perspective on things, to help make sense of past events and try and to move towards a more positive future.
My background was for many years in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, in more recent years I have worked in mental health support, working with people who have severe and enduring mental health needs.
Hi I'm Simon, I am here to listen, reflect, discuss and support you with whatever difficulties you may want to bring to therapy. I work with you as an individual to find the best way forward for you, therapy can provide time and space to express things that you need to express, to gain a different perspective on things, to help make sense of past events and try and to move towards a more positive future.
0115 647 3628 View 0115 647 3628
Dr Margaret Lyons
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
At times life can be challenging for children and adolescents, as well as for you as a parent. Common concerns parents may have about their children include anxiety, low mood, behaviour, social difficulties, bereavement, adjusting to a physical health condition or neurodevelopmental diagnosis. Parents can struggle when their children do. Maybe you are unsure how best to support your child, or perhaps you're facing difficulties that affect how you parent and respond to your child. I am a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping children and families improve their emotional wellbeing and navigate difficult times.
At times life can be challenging for children and adolescents, as well as for you as a parent. Common concerns parents may have about their children include anxiety, low mood, behaviour, social difficulties, bereavement, adjusting to a physical health condition or neurodevelopmental diagnosis. Parents can struggle when their children do. Maybe you are unsure how best to support your child, or perhaps you're facing difficulties that affect how you parent and respond to your child. I am a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping children and families improve their emotional wellbeing and navigate difficult times.
0114 697 5806 View 0114 697 5806
Carly Radford
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with sensitive people, those whose sensitivity is innate such as being highly sensitive, HSP, autistic or adhd, and those for whom their sensitivity is acquired through anxiety or traumatic or distressing experiences, in particular sexual trauma.
Has a recent or past negative experience left you feeling lost or stuck? Maybe you’ve tried to just get on with life but inside you still feel broken, replaying events in your mind and asking yourself why or how this happened. Perhaps you know what happened to you was traumatic or maybe you’ve told yourself it “wasn’t that bad”. Some days you seem to feel all the emotions all at once, and other days you feel nothing at all. Other people simply don’t understand, which may leave you feeling alone and like you don’t matter. You are not alone and you do matter. You deserve freedom and peace from your past experiences.
I work with sensitive people, those whose sensitivity is innate such as being highly sensitive, HSP, autistic or adhd, and those for whom their sensitivity is acquired through anxiety or traumatic or distressing experiences, in particular sexual trauma.
Has a recent or past negative experience left you feeling lost or stuck? Maybe you’ve tried to just get on with life but inside you still feel broken, replaying events in your mind and asking yourself why or how this happened. Perhaps you know what happened to you was traumatic or maybe you’ve told yourself it “wasn’t that bad”. Some days you seem to feel all the emotions all at once, and other days you feel nothing at all. Other people simply don’t understand, which may leave you feeling alone and like you don’t matter. You are not alone and you do matter. You deserve freedom and peace from your past experiences.
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Kim Lewin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
0115 647 7340 View 0115 647 7340
Jay McCarthy
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in counselling LGBTQ+, neurodivergent (inc. autistic, BPD & ADHD) and chronically ill clients.
I offer weekly or fortnightly therapy online using Zoom. Sessions can take place through live chat, voice call or video call: whichever feels most comfortable that day. You can have a regular slot for consistency or we can book in on a session-by-session basis. Choose between 30m and 1h sessions. I work Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 4pm. Sliding scale fees.
I am experienced in counselling LGBTQ+, neurodivergent (inc. autistic, BPD & ADHD) and chronically ill clients.
I offer weekly or fortnightly therapy online using Zoom. Sessions can take place through live chat, voice call or video call: whichever feels most comfortable that day. You can have a regular slot for consistency or we can book in on a session-by-session basis. Choose between 30m and 1h sessions. I work Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 4pm. Sliding scale fees.
07737 426052 View 07737 426052
Anita Dalley
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I am a BACP registered counsellor offering a friendly, down to earth approach aimed at helping you to improve your quality of life. I provide walk and talk counselling in the Peak District for people who want to explore the benefits of connecting with nature. I also offer sessions in my comfortable and private therapy room located in my garden in the Peak District.
I am a BACP registered counsellor offering a friendly, down to earth approach aimed at helping you to improve your quality of life. I provide walk and talk counselling in the Peak District for people who want to explore the benefits of connecting with nature. I also offer sessions in my comfortable and private therapy room located in my garden in the Peak District.
01433 449366 View 01433 449366
Burton Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Sometimes we experience difficulties in our lives, whether that be individually or in our relationship. As an Integrative Therapist working with individuals and couples, we can work together to explore those individual or relationship difficulties at whatever pace you feel comfortable with. Working in an integrative way means your therapy sessions are tailored to your needs and goals combining a variety of modalities including, Person-Centred Approach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Attachment Theory.
Sometimes we experience difficulties in our lives, whether that be individually or in our relationship. As an Integrative Therapist working with individuals and couples, we can work together to explore those individual or relationship difficulties at whatever pace you feel comfortable with. Working in an integrative way means your therapy sessions are tailored to your needs and goals combining a variety of modalities including, Person-Centred Approach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Attachment Theory.
01283 387280 View 01283 387280
Alison McLauchlan Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, BACP
1 Endorsed
I also offer Neurodivergent Coaching.
I use a person-centred approach, which I hope will help you to make sense of your previous life experiences and current circumstances. I will listen empathically and without judgment as you explore what is going on for you. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client is essential, so I work relationally to build trust and safety.
I also offer Neurodivergent Coaching.
I use a person-centred approach, which I hope will help you to make sense of your previous life experiences and current circumstances. I will listen empathically and without judgment as you explore what is going on for you. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client is essential, so I work relationally to build trust and safety.
01777 802236 View 01777 802236
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.