Autism Counselling in Birkenhead

Lyndsay MacAulay
Counsellor, MBACP
I specialise in working with neurodivergent clients and offer a neuroaffirming, strengths based approach.
I offer a calm, safe space for you to explore any issues and challenges you may be facing. You will feel heard, understood, valued and respected. I am not here to tell you what to do, offer advice or make decisions for you. But I will absolutely support you to understand your feelings and reactions and to make decisions and choices that are important to you.
I specialise in working with neurodivergent clients and offer a neuroaffirming, strengths based approach.
I offer a calm, safe space for you to explore any issues and challenges you may be facing. You will feel heard, understood, valued and respected. I am not here to tell you what to do, offer advice or make decisions for you. But I will absolutely support you to understand your feelings and reactions and to make decisions and choices that are important to you.
0151 453 1319 View 0151 453 1319
Dr Paul Holland
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Neurodiversity (particularly ADHD and ASD) specialist working with adults and motivated teens.
I specialise in Executive Function Coaching and Positive Behaviour Support Consultancy. I predominantly work with neurodivergent individuals and people experiencing challenges associated with Executive Functioning. I take a holistic approach and consider all aspects of life, including sleep. Everyone can experience positive change!
Neurodiversity (particularly ADHD and ASD) specialist working with adults and motivated teens.
I specialise in Executive Function Coaching and Positive Behaviour Support Consultancy. I predominantly work with neurodivergent individuals and people experiencing challenges associated with Executive Functioning. I take a holistic approach and consider all aspects of life, including sleep. Everyone can experience positive change!
020 3958 4267 View 020 3958 4267
Lucy Hanson
Counsellor, PhD, BACP
1 Endorsed
I am a trauma informed Person-Centred counsellor who can work with young people and adults. You may want a space to explore difficult challenges or a chance to reflect on some matters from the past. You may also be looking for support for your child. I also work with young people and adults with neuro-diversity. I offer a warm, accepting, safe space to explore issues and look at your individual experiences.
I am a trauma informed Person-Centred counsellor who can work with young people and adults. You may want a space to explore difficult challenges or a chance to reflect on some matters from the past. You may also be looking for support for your child. I also work with young people and adults with neuro-diversity. I offer a warm, accepting, safe space to explore issues and look at your individual experiences.
0151 453 4557 View 0151 453 4557
Emma C Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am based on the Wirral and work with people of all ages, children and adults, with a speciality in supporting autistic individuals.
I offer informal, neuro-affirming, person-centred support. Because it's non-directive, you get to share at your own pace and decide exactly how many sessions you want. Together, we'll focus on your self-discovery in a safe, non-judgemental space. I’m also trained in creative methods, which we can easily bring in if it suits your needs.
I am based on the Wirral and work with people of all ages, children and adults, with a speciality in supporting autistic individuals.
I offer informal, neuro-affirming, person-centred support. Because it's non-directive, you get to share at your own pace and decide exactly how many sessions you want. Together, we'll focus on your self-discovery in a safe, non-judgemental space. I’m also trained in creative methods, which we can easily bring in if it suits your needs.
0151 453 4519 View 0151 453 4519
Debra Kurs
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I work with neurodivergent and LGBTQI+ clients, and those facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or difficult childhood experiences, supporting resilience and self-understanding.
Therapy is always a collaborative process. I work relationally and pluralistically, meaning we build a trusting relationship and work together to identify goals that feel meaningful and realistic. I support clients to explore their experiences safely, develop greater self-understanding, and build confidence in managing emotions and relationships. My role is to listen carefully, adapt to each person’s needs, and offer a steady, compassionate space where change can happen gradually. Progress often begins with feeling understood and continues through developing new insight, resilience, and self-acceptance.
I work with neurodivergent and LGBTQI+ clients, and those facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or difficult childhood experiences, supporting resilience and self-understanding.
Therapy is always a collaborative process. I work relationally and pluralistically, meaning we build a trusting relationship and work together to identify goals that feel meaningful and realistic. I support clients to explore their experiences safely, develop greater self-understanding, and build confidence in managing emotions and relationships. My role is to listen carefully, adapt to each person’s needs, and offer a steady, compassionate space where change can happen gradually. Progress often begins with feeling understood and continues through developing new insight, resilience, and self-acceptance.
01777 809413 View 01777 809413
Claire Hesketh
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Or perhaps your child is neurodivergent or questioning their identity and struggling to find where they fit in the world?
I work with children from 4 to 18, experiencing emotional distress, low mood, anxiety, school related difficulties, abuse, neurodivergence, identity issues, complex PTSD, bullying, grief and eating disorders. My adult work includes clients with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and those impacted by adverse childhood experiences
Or perhaps your child is neurodivergent or questioning their identity and struggling to find where they fit in the world?
I work with children from 4 to 18, experiencing emotional distress, low mood, anxiety, school related difficulties, abuse, neurodivergence, identity issues, complex PTSD, bullying, grief and eating disorders. My adult work includes clients with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and those impacted by adverse childhood experiences
0151 453 7407 View 0151 453 7407
Lee Rowland
Counsellor, MBACP
I am proficient in issues including, Early Life Experiences, ADHD, Addiction, Alcohol/Drug issues, OCD/Phobias, Anxiety/Depression, Work Related Stress, PTSD, Autistic Spectrum, Bereavement, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Panic Disorder.
I also have many years experience working in illicit drug and alcohol recovery and with young and adult clients with complex needs, social/health anxieties and stress related issues in both one to one and group therapy sessions.
I am proficient in issues including, Early Life Experiences, ADHD, Addiction, Alcohol/Drug issues, OCD/Phobias, Anxiety/Depression, Work Related Stress, PTSD, Autistic Spectrum, Bereavement, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Panic Disorder.
I also have many years experience working in illicit drug and alcohol recovery and with young and adult clients with complex needs, social/health anxieties and stress related issues in both one to one and group therapy sessions.
0151 453 6765 View 0151 453 6765
Hello my name is Jen and I am a fully qualified counsellor. I have lots of experience working with neurodiverse adults, young people and children so find it easy to adapt my style to suit my clients needs. I have a genuine passion for the work I do, as i enjoy helping people feel better about themselves.
Hello my name is Jen and I am a fully qualified counsellor. I have lots of experience working with neurodiverse adults, young people and children so find it easy to adapt my style to suit my clients needs. I have a genuine passion for the work I do, as i enjoy helping people feel better about themselves.
0151 453 0647 View 0151 453 0647
Leah Beattie
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Hi, I am a qualified person centred therapist working with adults 18+, I’m currently volunteering at a women’s Centre working with individuals experiencing difficulty with life’s challenges. I have experience working with a range of presenting issues. My aim is to understand what you are looking to achieve from counselling. To understand the issues you would like to focus on and why these challenges need addressing, plus the impact it may be having on your daily life. I will explore with you the issues raised with compassion and with clarity. The counselling sessions are non-directive and at your own pace.
Hi, I am a qualified person centred therapist working with adults 18+, I’m currently volunteering at a women’s Centre working with individuals experiencing difficulty with life’s challenges. I have experience working with a range of presenting issues. My aim is to understand what you are looking to achieve from counselling. To understand the issues you would like to focus on and why these challenges need addressing, plus the impact it may be having on your daily life. I will explore with you the issues raised with compassion and with clarity. The counselling sessions are non-directive and at your own pace.
0151 453 6095 View 0151 453 6095
Delyth Cole
Counsellor, MBACP
I work with couples who feel like they’re "flatmates who fight," and individuals who are tired of their own internal monologue tripping them up. … Maybe your relationship has lost its spark, or maybe you’re an individual feeling disconnected from yourself and everyone else. My ideal clients are ready to stop the "polite" surface talk and get into the real, messy truth. Whether we are untangling years of relationship patterns or navigating your personal hurdles, we move forward by identifying the "why" and then practicing the "how." I help you find your footing again so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.
I work with couples who feel like they’re "flatmates who fight," and individuals who are tired of their own internal monologue tripping them up. … Maybe your relationship has lost its spark, or maybe you’re an individual feeling disconnected from yourself and everyone else. My ideal clients are ready to stop the "polite" surface talk and get into the real, messy truth. Whether we are untangling years of relationship patterns or navigating your personal hurdles, we move forward by identifying the "why" and then practicing the "how." I help you find your footing again so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.
0151 453 4365 View 0151 453 4365
Louise Bennett
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I have completed specialist training in online and telephone counselling, as well as working therapeutically with autistic clients.
You may appear to be coping with work, relationships, and daily life, yet inside feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from yourself. You might be living with anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, or a sense of being stuck, often after years of putting others first. You may be looking for a space where you do not have to perform or be ‘fixed’, but can feel truly heard and understood. Your goal may be to feel calmer, more grounded, and more confident, with greater self-trust, clearer boundaries, and a stronger connection to who you are.
I have completed specialist training in online and telephone counselling, as well as working therapeutically with autistic clients.
You may appear to be coping with work, relationships, and daily life, yet inside feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from yourself. You might be living with anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, or a sense of being stuck, often after years of putting others first. You may be looking for a space where you do not have to perform or be ‘fixed’, but can feel truly heard and understood. Your goal may be to feel calmer, more grounded, and more confident, with greater self-trust, clearer boundaries, and a stronger connection to who you are.
0151 453 3328 View 0151 453 3328
Katie Keane
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
  I offer therapy for trauma and anxiety, along with extensive experience of working with clients with ADHD and Autism.
My work with adults focuses on increasing emotional regulation, addressing trauma-related and anxiety-based symptoms and providing people with the tools and support they need to navigate their personal healing journey. For my neurodivergent clients, I also offer practical strategies for supporting your needs and responses alongside my therapeutic practice.
  I offer therapy for trauma and anxiety, along with extensive experience of working with clients with ADHD and Autism.
My work with adults focuses on increasing emotional regulation, addressing trauma-related and anxiety-based symptoms and providing people with the tools and support they need to navigate their personal healing journey. For my neurodivergent clients, I also offer practical strategies for supporting your needs and responses alongside my therapeutic practice.
0151 453 5707 View 0151 453 5707
Katie Waine
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also support neurodivergent clients and have a specialist interest in working with those affected by sight loss.
I draw on person-centred, psychodynamic and CBT approaches, tailoring therapy to each individual. I aim to offer a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can explore things at your own pace.
I also support neurodivergent clients and have a specialist interest in working with those affected by sight loss.
I draw on person-centred, psychodynamic and CBT approaches, tailoring therapy to each individual. I aim to offer a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can explore things at your own pace.
0151 453 3329 View 0151 453 3329
Katy Leatherbarrow
Counsellor, MBACP
Not accepting new clients
I have experience with a diverse range of clients including grief, loss, narcissistic and emotional abuse, relationship breakdowns, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, men issues, Autism, ADHD and LGBTQIA+ .
You are the expert of your own life. My role is not to fix you. I can work alongside you whilst navigating change or simply just listen so you feel cared for and accepted as your authentic self. My work is trauma-informed meaning I hold a gentle awareness of how life experiences can shape patterns, emotions, and how we move through the world.
I have experience with a diverse range of clients including grief, loss, narcissistic and emotional abuse, relationship breakdowns, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, men issues, Autism, ADHD and LGBTQIA+ .
You are the expert of your own life. My role is not to fix you. I can work alongside you whilst navigating change or simply just listen so you feel cared for and accepted as your authentic self. My work is trauma-informed meaning I hold a gentle awareness of how life experiences can shape patterns, emotions, and how we move through the world.
0151 453 2748 View 0151 453 2748

More Therapists Nearby

Charlotte Kimbley
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also offer neurodiverse affirming approaches to therapy, to support clients who identify as ADHD, AuDHD or Autistic.
Do you struggle with anxiety, imposter syndrome or low mood? Comparing yourself negatively to others, fearing rejection if you are your authentic self, or make a mistake. You may have always felt this way, stemming from painful experiences in your past. Or has something happened more recently that has changed your sense of self? Maybe you are starting to identify as ADHD, AuDHD or ASC, and you're trying to make sense of your life story from this new perspective. Therapy is a safe and supportive space to explore your difficulties at your pace, develop new strategies, regain confidence whilst reconnecting with what you value and enjoy
I also offer neurodiverse affirming approaches to therapy, to support clients who identify as ADHD, AuDHD or Autistic.
Do you struggle with anxiety, imposter syndrome or low mood? Comparing yourself negatively to others, fearing rejection if you are your authentic self, or make a mistake. You may have always felt this way, stemming from painful experiences in your past. Or has something happened more recently that has changed your sense of self? Maybe you are starting to identify as ADHD, AuDHD or ASC, and you're trying to make sense of your life story from this new perspective. Therapy is a safe and supportive space to explore your difficulties at your pace, develop new strategies, regain confidence whilst reconnecting with what you value and enjoy
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Kelly Birkett
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Leyland PR25
Therapy is a space where you can slow down, make sense of what’s going on, and find ways to reduce feelings of distress, overwhelm, and emotional exhaustion. It’s also an opportunity to understand yourself better, strengthen your emotional wellbeing, and develop greater self-compassion so that life feels more manageable and enjoyable. Together, we’ll explore what's contributing to your difficulties, identify meaningful changes, and build a personalised toolkit of coping strategies that genuinely work for you. I aim to create a supportive, non-judgemental environment where you feel heard, understood, and more accepting of yourself
Therapy is a space where you can slow down, make sense of what’s going on, and find ways to reduce feelings of distress, overwhelm, and emotional exhaustion. It’s also an opportunity to understand yourself better, strengthen your emotional wellbeing, and develop greater self-compassion so that life feels more manageable and enjoyable. Together, we’ll explore what's contributing to your difficulties, identify meaningful changes, and build a personalised toolkit of coping strategies that genuinely work for you. I aim to create a supportive, non-judgemental environment where you feel heard, understood, and more accepting of yourself
01254 916184 View 01254 916184
Sammy Allport-Rowley
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I also support neurodivergent clients and offer a neurodiversity-affirming space where you don't need to mask or pretend to fit in.
If you're feeling stuck, burnt out, anxious, or like you've somehow lost yourself along the way, you're not alone. Many of the people I work with are exhausted from holding everything together. They spend so much time looking after others, meeting expectations, or simply getting through the day that they've lost touch with what they need. Sometimes they know something needs to change but aren't sure where to begin. Therapy offers a space to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. My approach is warm, relaxed, and down-to-earth, creating a space where you can be yourself without judgement or pressure. We can start gently, too!
I also support neurodivergent clients and offer a neurodiversity-affirming space where you don't need to mask or pretend to fit in.
If you're feeling stuck, burnt out, anxious, or like you've somehow lost yourself along the way, you're not alone. Many of the people I work with are exhausted from holding everything together. They spend so much time looking after others, meeting expectations, or simply getting through the day that they've lost touch with what they need. Sometimes they know something needs to change but aren't sure where to begin. Therapy offers a space to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. My approach is warm, relaxed, and down-to-earth, creating a space where you can be yourself without judgement or pressure. We can start gently, too!
0151 318 0922 View 0151 318 0922
Rachel Flaherty
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
I work with Adults, young people, and neurodivergent individuals ( autism, ADHD).
Are you ready to feel understood — not just heard? Therapy works best when it fits you — not a template. Whether you're managing anxiety, processing difficult experiences, navigating life feeling stuck, or simply wanting to understand yourself better, I'll work with you to find an approach that actually helps. My style is warm, collaborative, and genuinely flexible. I work primarily from a person-centred foundation — meaning you lead, at your pace — drawing in solution-focused therapy, CBT, and psychodynamic thinking when they're useful. We find what works for you, together.
I work with Adults, young people, and neurodivergent individuals ( autism, ADHD).
Are you ready to feel understood — not just heard? Therapy works best when it fits you — not a template. Whether you're managing anxiety, processing difficult experiences, navigating life feeling stuck, or simply wanting to understand yourself better, I'll work with you to find an approach that actually helps. My style is warm, collaborative, and genuinely flexible. I work primarily from a person-centred foundation — meaning you lead, at your pace — drawing in solution-focused therapy, CBT, and psychodynamic thinking when they're useful. We find what works for you, together.
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In Toto Counselling
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I have also worked in schools with children who are struggling mentally or with suspected autism/adhd.
I am an integrative counsellor offering talking therapy focused on you and your needs. Sometimes this will mean providing a safe place to openly discuss your concerns and difficulties without judgement and sometimes this will be providing solutions and guidance around practical elements to help overcome your concerns and difficulties, depending on what best suits your needs. I work with adults and couples across a range of presenting issues.
I have also worked in schools with children who are struggling mentally or with suspected autism/adhd.
I am an integrative counsellor offering talking therapy focused on you and your needs. Sometimes this will mean providing a safe place to openly discuss your concerns and difficulties without judgement and sometimes this will be providing solutions and guidance around practical elements to help overcome your concerns and difficulties, depending on what best suits your needs. I work with adults and couples across a range of presenting issues.
01772 288309 View 01772 288309
Adele Schofield
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Sale M33
As a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+ counsellor, I’ve created a space where people can exhale, explore, and begin to heal — a space grounded in authenticity, acceptance, and care.
Life can feel heavy at times, and it’s easy to feel stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to face it alone. In our sessions, we connect in a calm, wooden cabin nestled in a peaceful garden surrounded by trees, a space rooted in authenticity and acceptance, where you can slow down, breathe, and explore what’s happening for you.
As a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+ counsellor, I’ve created a space where people can exhale, explore, and begin to heal — a space grounded in authenticity, acceptance, and care.
Life can feel heavy at times, and it’s easy to feel stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to face it alone. In our sessions, we connect in a calm, wooden cabin nestled in a peaceful garden surrounded by trees, a space rooted in authenticity and acceptance, where you can slow down, breathe, and explore what’s happening for you.
0161 524 4012 View 0161 524 4012
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.