Autism Counselling in Cheltenham

Photo of Gary Catterall - The Child Psychiatric & Psychological Consultants, PsychD, ACP, Psychotherapist
The Child Psychiatric & Psychological Consultants
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham GL52
We provide medical psychiatric & psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment for Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, gender dysmorphia, eating disorders, tic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, self-harm, psychotic disorders and emotional dysregulation and more. We have over 20 years’ experience working in various CAMHS mental health settings with extensive experience and knowledge. The service is clinically led by a consultant child psychiatrist and a consultant child & adolescent psychoanalytic psychotherapist who both trained in the NHS who have provided clinical leadership for services.
We provide medical psychiatric & psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment for Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, gender dysmorphia, eating disorders, tic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, self-harm, psychotic disorders and emotional dysregulation and more. We have over 20 years’ experience working in various CAMHS mental health settings with extensive experience and knowledge. The service is clinically led by a consultant child psychiatrist and a consultant child & adolescent psychoanalytic psychotherapist who both trained in the NHS who have provided clinical leadership for services.
01452 687104 View 01452 687104
Photo of Martyn Pars, MBACP, Counsellor
Martyn Pars
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
During this time I worked with a range of mental health issues from stress, anxiety, depression, relationships through to self harm, suicidal thoughts, gender, autism, ADHD, dyslexia and more.
My Offer To You: Being heard, understood, believed in and supported. We all need this kind of support at some point in our lives. This is my offer to you. I am an accredited professional counsellor (PNCPS acc.) registered through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP reg) which means I am held on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register thus ensuring protection to the public and helping to ensure their health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in those with later in life ADHD diagnosis or if you suspect you might be. I am also a professional executive coach.
During this time I worked with a range of mental health issues from stress, anxiety, depression, relationships through to self harm, suicidal thoughts, gender, autism, ADHD, dyslexia and more.
My Offer To You: Being heard, understood, believed in and supported. We all need this kind of support at some point in our lives. This is my offer to you. I am an accredited professional counsellor (PNCPS acc.) registered through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP reg) which means I am held on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register thus ensuring protection to the public and helping to ensure their health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in those with later in life ADHD diagnosis or if you suspect you might be. I am also a professional executive coach.
01242 507893 View 01242 507893
Photo of Sally Glover, MBACP, Counsellor
Sally Glover
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I have experience working with Trauma, Transgender clients, Autism and ADHD.
As a counsellor working with Adults, Teenagers and Children, I offer a safe, confidential space where I listen without judgement. We will work together at your pace. I offer an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of life's difficulties and the emotions that are being experienced. We will explore what is important to you, what you need to address and where you are needing help, understanding and support. Our work together moves towards making positive changes within yourself, your life and your relationships. ​
I have experience working with Trauma, Transgender clients, Autism and ADHD.
As a counsellor working with Adults, Teenagers and Children, I offer a safe, confidential space where I listen without judgement. We will work together at your pace. I offer an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of life's difficulties and the emotions that are being experienced. We will explore what is important to you, what you need to address and where you are needing help, understanding and support. Our work together moves towards making positive changes within yourself, your life and your relationships. ​
01452 227043 View 01452 227043
Photo of Mark Brady - Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service , MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Our team offer support for Depression, Anxiety, Social Skills, OCD, ADHD, Autism and anything else you might be experiencing.
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service is a dedicated provider of support for adults and children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism or ADHD. Our friendly experienced team of therapists, mentors and psychologists, use adapted approaches and specialist tools, to help people overcome their challenges.
Our team offer support for Depression, Anxiety, Social Skills, OCD, ADHD, Autism and anything else you might be experiencing.
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service is a dedicated provider of support for adults and children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism or ADHD. Our friendly experienced team of therapists, mentors and psychologists, use adapted approaches and specialist tools, to help people overcome their challenges.
01285 842652 View 01285 842652
Photo of Ben Crumpler - Therapy with Ben , MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Therapy with Ben
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hi, I am Ben an enthusiastic and friendly therapist working in the Cheltenham area, my Private Practice is Therapy with Ben. I work in an integrative way with my main approach being person-centred therapy, this is because I truly believe you are the expert in your own life. We can work together to make sure you get the most from life. I fully understand that if you are looking here then it is likely that things are not going as you would wish at the moment. Counselling is a great way to deal with lives difficulties and maximise the enjoyment you get from your own life, I truly believe this.
Hi, I am Ben an enthusiastic and friendly therapist working in the Cheltenham area, my Private Practice is Therapy with Ben. I work in an integrative way with my main approach being person-centred therapy, this is because I truly believe you are the expert in your own life. We can work together to make sure you get the most from life. I fully understand that if you are looking here then it is likely that things are not going as you would wish at the moment. Counselling is a great way to deal with lives difficulties and maximise the enjoyment you get from your own life, I truly believe this.
01242 501462 View 01242 501462
Photo of Sarah Costelloe, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist
Sarah Costelloe
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Perhaps your child is unhappy at school or experiencing confusion, distress, loneliness, social difficulties or is struggling to navigate the many developmental and emotional challenges that are part of growing up. Maybe you have tried every approach you can think of to support your child and feel that some clarity or a different perspective on your situation would help. It might be that a specific event or big change in your child’s life has unsettled them and they would benefit from speaking with a trained professional to be able to better understand what they are going through.
Perhaps your child is unhappy at school or experiencing confusion, distress, loneliness, social difficulties or is struggling to navigate the many developmental and emotional challenges that are part of growing up. Maybe you have tried every approach you can think of to support your child and feel that some clarity or a different perspective on your situation would help. It might be that a specific event or big change in your child’s life has unsettled them and they would benefit from speaking with a trained professional to be able to better understand what they are going through.
01242 503605 View 01242 503605
Photo of Dr Jess Rayner, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jess Rayner
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL53
Hello and welcome to my practice. As a registered Clinical Psychologist, I offer high quality, compassionate, assessments and therapy.  I am experienced at working with people to navigate and overcome a range of different issues, with a special interest in working with anxiety, trauma (e.g., PTSD, C-PTSD)/difficult life events, stress/burnout, low-self esteem, and neurodivergence. I support people to understand how and why they might feel like they do, but also develop practical effective ways to improve well-being in the here and now.
Hello and welcome to my practice. As a registered Clinical Psychologist, I offer high quality, compassionate, assessments and therapy.  I am experienced at working with people to navigate and overcome a range of different issues, with a special interest in working with anxiety, trauma (e.g., PTSD, C-PTSD)/difficult life events, stress/burnout, low-self esteem, and neurodivergence. I support people to understand how and why they might feel like they do, but also develop practical effective ways to improve well-being in the here and now.
01248 663871 View 01248 663871
Photo of Jo Taylor, MBACP, Counsellor
Jo Taylor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Life can be hard and there can be times when we struggle to cope. Whatever your reason for coming to counselling, whether you are looking for short-term support for specific difficulties or trying to make sense of long-term, ongoing thoughts, feelings or patterns impacting your life, I am here to help. I am an Integrative Counsellor, which means I can draw on different therapeutic approaches and theories in our work together, depending on your needs. These approaches are based in Person Centred and Psychodynamic Theory.
Life can be hard and there can be times when we struggle to cope. Whatever your reason for coming to counselling, whether you are looking for short-term support for specific difficulties or trying to make sense of long-term, ongoing thoughts, feelings or patterns impacting your life, I am here to help. I am an Integrative Counsellor, which means I can draw on different therapeutic approaches and theories in our work together, depending on your needs. These approaches are based in Person Centred and Psychodynamic Theory.
01242 503545 View 01242 503545
Photo of Vicky Spink - Creative Journeys - Vicky Spink, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Creative Journeys - Vicky Spink
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL53
Trying to make sense of feelings and emotions in times of stress and change can be challenging. I use both or either SandStory Therapy(c) and Emotional Logic, bespoke to your individual needs to help you gain better awareness of underlying difficulties. SandStory is a non-talking therapy, using chosen symbols within a sand tray, drawing on Jungian theory to enable deep exploration and understanding of what is being expressed from your unconscious. Emotional Logic coaching is a self-development method providing you with lifelong tools to help you when engaging with new and unpredictable situations.
Trying to make sense of feelings and emotions in times of stress and change can be challenging. I use both or either SandStory Therapy(c) and Emotional Logic, bespoke to your individual needs to help you gain better awareness of underlying difficulties. SandStory is a non-talking therapy, using chosen symbols within a sand tray, drawing on Jungian theory to enable deep exploration and understanding of what is being expressed from your unconscious. Emotional Logic coaching is a self-development method providing you with lifelong tools to help you when engaging with new and unpredictable situations.
01242 501674 View 01242 501674
Photo of Claire King, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire King
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
01242 903215 View 01242 903215
Photo of Jen Edwards, MBACP, Counsellor
Jen Edwards
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
01242 903218 View 01242 903218
Photo of Cathy Cook - Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling , MBACP, Psychotherapist
Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings and/or circumstances. Relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues, depression, anxiety, etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look together at what is distressing you and find the best way forward.
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings and/or circumstances. Relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues, depression, anxiety, etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look together at what is distressing you and find the best way forward.
01242 386010 View 01242 386010
Photo of Dawn Andrei, MBACP, Counsellor
Dawn Andrei
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Are you struggling with your emotions, overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship difficulties? Perhaps stuck in destructive habitual behavioural patterns, or addictive behaviours without understanding why? I offer a safe and empathetic environment to support your growth in developing self-awareness, through a range of therapeutic approaches, building a bespoke tool kit of coping techniques to support you work through your difficulties, develop emotional regulation and make the desired changes in your life.
Are you struggling with your emotions, overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship difficulties? Perhaps stuck in destructive habitual behavioural patterns, or addictive behaviours without understanding why? I offer a safe and empathetic environment to support your growth in developing self-awareness, through a range of therapeutic approaches, building a bespoke tool kit of coping techniques to support you work through your difficulties, develop emotional regulation and make the desired changes in your life.
01452 941827 View 01452 941827
Photo of James Husband, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
James Husband
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Hi everyone, I have spent the last decade in the NHS, helping people with mental health difficulties. My very first placement was helping people in Learning disabilities and in CAMHS as an assistant psychologist. I then trained in CBT techniques in adult services, for a range of different difficulties. I have successfully treated people with Panic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Phobia, PTSD, Depression, Recurrent depression and Body Dysmorphic disorder. I then went on to specialise in treating PTSD and complex PTSD.
Hi everyone, I have spent the last decade in the NHS, helping people with mental health difficulties. My very first placement was helping people in Learning disabilities and in CAMHS as an assistant psychologist. I then trained in CBT techniques in adult services, for a range of different difficulties. I have successfully treated people with Panic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Phobia, PTSD, Depression, Recurrent depression and Body Dysmorphic disorder. I then went on to specialise in treating PTSD and complex PTSD.
View
Photo of Donna Salter, MBACP, Counsellor
Donna Salter
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
As a person, and a counsellor with over 10 years' experience, I am aware that finding our way through the challenges of life can sometimes seem like an impossible task. Often, we won't share our experience with others because we don't want to be a burden or, we are fearful of being judged. As your counsellor I will offer you the time and space for you to reflect on your feelings, as you process what is going on for you. Our relationship will be one where you feel heard, valued and supported on your journey of self-discovery.
As a person, and a counsellor with over 10 years' experience, I am aware that finding our way through the challenges of life can sometimes seem like an impossible task. Often, we won't share our experience with others because we don't want to be a burden or, we are fearful of being judged. As your counsellor I will offer you the time and space for you to reflect on your feelings, as you process what is going on for you. Our relationship will be one where you feel heard, valued and supported on your journey of self-discovery.
01242 503628 View 01242 503628
Photo of Sophie Page, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sophie Page
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hello, I'm Sophie and I am a qualified, experienced counsellor working in a calm space in Central Cheltenham. I provide Face-to-Face counselling or online counselling, to suit your needs. It is not easy to make the decision to come to counselling and it takes courage to seek the help that you feel you might need. There are many reasons that someone might seek out counselling: Perhaps you are feeling stuck, finding it hard to make a change? Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or in a low mood that feels hard to shift? Perhaps there is something in your past which is having an impact on how you feel now in your life?
Hello, I'm Sophie and I am a qualified, experienced counsellor working in a calm space in Central Cheltenham. I provide Face-to-Face counselling or online counselling, to suit your needs. It is not easy to make the decision to come to counselling and it takes courage to seek the help that you feel you might need. There are many reasons that someone might seek out counselling: Perhaps you are feeling stuck, finding it hard to make a change? Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or in a low mood that feels hard to shift? Perhaps there is something in your past which is having an impact on how you feel now in your life?
View
Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
01452 934579 View 01452 934579
Photo of Julie Ingram, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Julie Ingram
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma. I provide a welcoming, safe space (indoors or out doors) which provides a relationship based approach to working together.
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma. I provide a welcoming, safe space (indoors or out doors) which provides a relationship based approach to working together.
01981 200129 View 01981 200129
Photo of Clare Howlett, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Clare Howlett
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I offer support with relationships, life experiences, personal development and everything in between! Perhaps you want to understand yourself and others better, make sense of a challenging life experience or feel more connected, happier and fulfilled in life! The best place to start may involve thinking more about me than about you! Much has been said about the therapeutic relationship being an important predictor of change, so this is a great opportunity to get to know me to establish if I'm a good-fit for you!
I offer support with relationships, life experiences, personal development and everything in between! Perhaps you want to understand yourself and others better, make sense of a challenging life experience or feel more connected, happier and fulfilled in life! The best place to start may involve thinking more about me than about you! Much has been said about the therapeutic relationship being an important predictor of change, so this is a great opportunity to get to know me to establish if I'm a good-fit for you!
01452 941685 View 01452 941685
Photo of Carolyn Anne Howchin - Joined Up Counselling , MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Joined Up Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
Offering a warm acceptance of all clients, its important in those early sessions that rapport is built and that we work together to understand goals for Counselling. For younger clients this is sometimes hard to communicate and therefore I look to introduce creative ways for them to be able to express themselves. I understand that each client is unique and therefore adapt our sessions to meet the needs of the individual, whether that is creating a safe confidential space just to be heard or supporting with a suite of Cognitive Behavioural Tools to aid negative thinking or behaviour.
Offering a warm acceptance of all clients, its important in those early sessions that rapport is built and that we work together to understand goals for Counselling. For younger clients this is sometimes hard to communicate and therefore I look to introduce creative ways for them to be able to express themselves. I understand that each client is unique and therefore adapt our sessions to meet the needs of the individual, whether that is creating a safe confidential space just to be heard or supporting with a suite of Cognitive Behavioural Tools to aid negative thinking or behaviour.
01242 339922 View 01242 339922
1

See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.