Autism Counselling in Cheltenham

Photo of Nicola Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP
Nicola Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
I am an Author, Radio Star and Neurodivergent Specialist - ADHD Therapeutic Coach offering therapy and coaching for individuals and couples with an underlying focus on ADHD and Autism.
Q. Is your ADHD driving the bus? By tuning into your energy and focusing on wins, we can identify the dominos and key focus for our sessions to develop coping strategies . You will leave the session with golden nuggets. We will explore all relationships to help us set goals and empower you to find your identity.
I am an Author, Radio Star and Neurodivergent Specialist - ADHD Therapeutic Coach offering therapy and coaching for individuals and couples with an underlying focus on ADHD and Autism.
Q. Is your ADHD driving the bus? By tuning into your energy and focusing on wins, we can identify the dominos and key focus for our sessions to develop coping strategies . You will leave the session with golden nuggets. We will explore all relationships to help us set goals and empower you to find your identity.
01684 219793 View 01684 219793
Photo of Gary Catterall - Children in Mind - Psychiatric & Psychological , Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACP
Children in Mind - Psychiatric & Psychological
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACP
1 Endorsed
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.
Our in-depth clinical trainings enables us to understand young people and respond sensitively and understand complex multi-layered communications. We work with parents/carers/networks to support young people. We treat everyone as an individual and provide interventions/treatment holistically with this in mind.
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.
Our in-depth clinical trainings enables us to understand young people and respond sensitively and understand complex multi-layered communications. We work with parents/carers/networks to support young people. We treat everyone as an individual and provide interventions/treatment holistically with this in mind.
01452 687104 View 01452 687104
Photo of Hayley Lake, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Hayley Lake
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
I have wealth of knowledge and experience working therapeutically with neurodivergent individuals.
Hi there! My name is Hayley and I am an Integrative therapist who specialises in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. As well as this I am a fully qualified Counselling Clinical Supervisor working with adult supervisees who work therapeutically with CYP, adults, and couples. I am currently working towards my Accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I hold up-to-date training in Safeguarding & Child Protection.
I have wealth of knowledge and experience working therapeutically with neurodivergent individuals.
Hi there! My name is Hayley and I am an Integrative therapist who specialises in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. As well as this I am a fully qualified Counselling Clinical Supervisor working with adult supervisees who work therapeutically with CYP, adults, and couples. I am currently working towards my Accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I hold up-to-date training in Safeguarding & Child Protection.
01905 674930 View 01905 674930
Photo of Dr Iulian Chear, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Dr Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Online Only
Life has a habit of bringing dilemmas, difficulties, and struggles into our path. It is just human to respond with hurt, shame, anxiety, or by feeling lost, stuck, and depressed. Psychotherapy can help you make sense of them and move forward. Whatever brings you to therapy, I aim to create a space where you can feel safe, understood, and listened to, a space where you can be fully yourself, with no need to perform or explain yourself. The ultimate goal is to help you create a more meaningful life and explore new ways of approaching your relationships with yourself, others, and the world.
Life has a habit of bringing dilemmas, difficulties, and struggles into our path. It is just human to respond with hurt, shame, anxiety, or by feeling lost, stuck, and depressed. Psychotherapy can help you make sense of them and move forward. Whatever brings you to therapy, I aim to create a space where you can feel safe, understood, and listened to, a space where you can be fully yourself, with no need to perform or explain yourself. The ultimate goal is to help you create a more meaningful life and explore new ways of approaching your relationships with yourself, others, and the world.
0117 463 7137 View 0117 463 7137
Photo of Simone Mellor-Clark, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Simone Mellor-Clark
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Serves Area
You could be questioning whether you're neurodivergent ( Autistic, ADHD, or AuDHD), processing a late diagnosis, or exhausted from years of masking who you really are.
I'm a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist with 20 years of experience supporting adults through emotional, relational, and mental health difficulties. I work with anxiety, burnout, co-dependency, depression, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, stress, and trauma. I specialise in neurodivergent-affirming therapy for autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD adults.
You could be questioning whether you're neurodivergent ( Autistic, ADHD, or AuDHD), processing a late diagnosis, or exhausted from years of masking who you really are.
I'm a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist with 20 years of experience supporting adults through emotional, relational, and mental health difficulties. I work with anxiety, burnout, co-dependency, depression, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, stress, and trauma. I specialise in neurodivergent-affirming therapy for autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD adults.
01684 211184 View 01684 211184
Photo of Susie Bates Ma, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Susie Bates Ma
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
Perhaps you are Neurodivergent and would like to explore how that impacts your life and find more affirmative experiences?
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice, informed by both my academic background and personal journey. I hold a Master's degree in Psychotherapeutic Practice, and researched ADHD in therapy for the dissertation component. I have extensive experience in various settings and a special interest in working with neurodivergent clients( ADHD, autistic etc).
Perhaps you are Neurodivergent and would like to explore how that impacts your life and find more affirmative experiences?
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice, informed by both my academic background and personal journey. I hold a Master's degree in Psychotherapeutic Practice, and researched ADHD in therapy for the dissertation component. I have extensive experience in various settings and a special interest in working with neurodivergent clients( ADHD, autistic etc).
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Photo of Jen Edwards, Counsellor, MBACP
Jen Edwards
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
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 Lisa Wolf, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Wolf
Counsellor, MBACP
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I predominantly work using a person centred approach, providing a safe, non judgemental, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe you are the expert on your own life and through our work together I aim to support you in gaining greater clarity, self understanding and confidence to move forward in ways that feel right for you. Based in Cheltenham, I offer counselling to individuals either face to face or online.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I predominantly work using a person centred approach, providing a safe, non judgemental, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe you are the expert on your own life and through our work together I aim to support you in gaining greater clarity, self understanding and confidence to move forward in ways that feel right for you. Based in Cheltenham, I offer counselling to individuals either face to face or online.
015242 35825 View 015242 35825
Photo of Shelley Marie Alcock - Cheltenham’s Counselling and Supervision Centre , Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
My most recent courses include: Eating disorders, self-harm, trauma, supporting a client in court, autism training, LGBTQ and diversity
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
My most recent courses include: Eating disorders, self-harm, trauma, supporting a client in court, autism training, LGBTQ and diversity
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
01242 339245 View 01242 339245
Photo of Amy Haire - AHW counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
AHW counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
I have experience working with neurodivergent people, plus those who are exploring gender and sexual identity.
Hiya, I'm Amy. I believe counselling can be a powerful resource for everyone, though I know that reaching out can sometimes feel daunting. That’s why I offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you’re free to share what’s on your mind, entirely at your own pace. Counselling isn’t about quick fixes or easy answers, it’s about making space for the complex, sometimes confusing, human stuff. Counselling can be hard, I won't pretend that it is not without discomfort. The power in it is that when you understand and grow in how you relate to your own self, you can extend that out to the benefit of yourself and others.
I have experience working with neurodivergent people, plus those who are exploring gender and sexual identity.
Hiya, I'm Amy. I believe counselling can be a powerful resource for everyone, though I know that reaching out can sometimes feel daunting. That’s why I offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you’re free to share what’s on your mind, entirely at your own pace. Counselling isn’t about quick fixes or easy answers, it’s about making space for the complex, sometimes confusing, human stuff. Counselling can be hard, I won't pretend that it is not without discomfort. The power in it is that when you understand and grow in how you relate to your own self, you can extend that out to the benefit of yourself and others.
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Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
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 Hannah Louise Wessel, Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Hannah Louise Wessel
Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
4 Endorsed
Are you finding life a struggle? Do you feel stuck, or disconnected from yourself? I invite you to take a breath and listen in. What do you need right now? When was the last time someone really listened to you with calm, warm acceptance, without judgement, and with curiosity and kindness? I offer a safe, welcoming space where we can explore together the way in which you relate to yourself and others. As a senior student in Core Process Psychotherapy, I use gentle embodied mindfulness and presence to help you relate to yourself in a new way, to come into relationship with the whole of yourself with kindness and curiosity.
Are you finding life a struggle? Do you feel stuck, or disconnected from yourself? I invite you to take a breath and listen in. What do you need right now? When was the last time someone really listened to you with calm, warm acceptance, without judgement, and with curiosity and kindness? I offer a safe, welcoming space where we can explore together the way in which you relate to yourself and others. As a senior student in Core Process Psychotherapy, I use gentle embodied mindfulness and presence to help you relate to yourself in a new way, to come into relationship with the whole of yourself with kindness and curiosity.
01608 698915 View 01608 698915
Photo of Abi Howells, Counsellor, BACP
Abi Howells
Counsellor, BACP
I am a Cheltenham based individuals counsellor, offering short or long term therapy to adults, and I specialise in working with young adults and those with ADHD and Autism.
You can expect to reflect on past/current experiences and begin to make sense of what's been happening in your life. I offer a safe space and invite anything that you need to bring into the room, free of interruption, judgement and agendas. I have special experience working with those with ADHD, and offer support and guidance with diagnosis.
I am a Cheltenham based individuals counsellor, offering short or long term therapy to adults, and I specialise in working with young adults and those with ADHD and Autism.
You can expect to reflect on past/current experiences and begin to make sense of what's been happening in your life. I offer a safe space and invite anything that you need to bring into the room, free of interruption, judgement and agendas. I have special experience working with those with ADHD, and offer support and guidance with diagnosis.
01452 229525 View 01452 229525
Photo of Claire King, Counsellor, MBACP
Claire King
Counsellor, MBACP
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 Gráinne Faherty-Quinn - Gráinne Ní Coaching, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Gráinne Ní Coaching
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Empowering creative and compassionate people to thrive after workplace burnout. Feeling stuck, anxious, or depleted after difficult experiences at work or in relationships can leave you questioning your confidence and direction. My coaching space offers a calm, confidential haven where you can breathe, reflect, and begin to recover. Together we’ll explore what’s been weighing on you—whether burnout, conflict, or the lingering effects of a toxic environment—and rebuild self-belief, clarity, and balance. Empowering you to understand, heal, and grow through the challenges of modern work!
Empowering creative and compassionate people to thrive after workplace burnout. Feeling stuck, anxious, or depleted after difficult experiences at work or in relationships can leave you questioning your confidence and direction. My coaching space offers a calm, confidential haven where you can breathe, reflect, and begin to recover. Together we’ll explore what’s been weighing on you—whether burnout, conflict, or the lingering effects of a toxic environment—and rebuild self-belief, clarity, and balance. Empowering you to understand, heal, and grow through the challenges of modern work!
01452 596264 View 01452 596264
Photo of Julie Ingram, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Julie Ingram
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
If you are a parent of a child / young person who has ADHD, Autism or any type of neurodivergence, you can access low cost support and Therapy via my not for profit organisation, Nurture Hub Therapy Service C
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.
If you are a parent of a child / young person who has ADHD, Autism or any type of neurodivergence, you can access low cost support and Therapy via my not for profit organisation, Nurture Hub Therapy Service C
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.
01981 200129 View 01981 200129
Photo of Lara Welby, Counsellor, MBACP
Lara Welby
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Hello, I’m Lara, I am an integrative counsellor and incorporate both person-centred and psychodynamic techniques. The person-centred approach creates a nurturing environment for personal growth, much like providing a plant with the right conditions—soil, water, light, and nutrients—so it can thrive. Similarly, in therapy, we create a supportive space that allows you to grow and flourish. The psychodynamic approach focuses on how unconscious thoughts and past experiences shape current feelings and behaviours. By understanding these influences, you can gain clarity, self-awareness, and a sense of control over your life.
Hello, I’m Lara, I am an integrative counsellor and incorporate both person-centred and psychodynamic techniques. The person-centred approach creates a nurturing environment for personal growth, much like providing a plant with the right conditions—soil, water, light, and nutrients—so it can thrive. Similarly, in therapy, we create a supportive space that allows you to grow and flourish. The psychodynamic approach focuses on how unconscious thoughts and past experiences shape current feelings and behaviours. By understanding these influences, you can gain clarity, self-awareness, and a sense of control over your life.
015242 35727 View 015242 35727
Photo of Caroline Anderson - Cooper & Goldfinch therapies
I work with children, adults, parents, and families navigating trauma, attachment difficulties, adoption, and relationship challenges. Clients often feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure why patterns repeat or relationships feel difficult. Using EMDR, NVR, and systemic approaches, I provide a safe space to explore experiences, strengthen connections, and develop practical strategies to move forward.
I work with children, adults, parents, and families navigating trauma, attachment difficulties, adoption, and relationship challenges. Clients often feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure why patterns repeat or relationships feel difficult. Using EMDR, NVR, and systemic approaches, I provide a safe space to explore experiences, strengthen connections, and develop practical strategies to move forward.
01452 941830 View 01452 941830
Photo of Donna Salter, Counsellor, MBACP
Donna Salter
Counsellor, MBACP
With over 10 years' experience as counsellor, I am aware that finding your 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.
With over 10 years' experience as counsellor, I am aware that finding your 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 Emilie Sclater, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Emilie Sclater
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
3 Endorsed
I work neuro-affirmatively with clients who are diagnosed or self-diagnosed neurodivergent.
I also have a particular interest in working with clients who are from a multicultural background or have lived in other countries, including those who may have lived in more than one country in childhood, and exploring the impacts that might have, whether in relation to their identity, sense of belonging or other parts of their experience.
I work neuro-affirmatively with clients who are diagnosed or self-diagnosed neurodivergent.
I also have a particular interest in working with clients who are from a multicultural background or have lived in other countries, including those who may have lived in more than one country in childhood, and exploring the impacts that might have, whether in relation to their identity, sense of belonging or other parts of their experience.
01746 335276 View 01746 335276

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.