Autism Counselling in Chester

Photo of Brooke Hall, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Brooke Hall
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse integrative therapist. I have experience supporting people with a wide range of issues, including: anxiety, depression, relationships, gender, sexuality, identity, neurodiversity, stress, trauma, and feeling stuck or lost. I welcome clients from all backgrounds. I specialise in working with Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD), supporting people who are LGBTQIA+ and/or have diverse relationship styles. I am neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, sex-positive, and kink-knowledgable. None of these things are requirements for working with me, but my experience is there if you need it!
I am a LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse integrative therapist. I have experience supporting people with a wide range of issues, including: anxiety, depression, relationships, gender, sexuality, identity, neurodiversity, stress, trauma, and feeling stuck or lost. I welcome clients from all backgrounds. I specialise in working with Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD), supporting people who are LGBTQIA+ and/or have diverse relationship styles. I am neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, sex-positive, and kink-knowledgable. None of these things are requirements for working with me, but my experience is there if you need it!
0151 453 0227 View 0151 453 0227
Photo of Paul Andrew Holland - Dr Paul Holland, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
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
Photo of Helen Bradley - Counselling With Helen, Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling With Helen
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Being a later in life diagnosed Autistic/ADHD counsellor, I offer genuine empathy & understanding if you're overwhelmed, feel isolated or struggling with life - I've been there too.
Together, we will work at your pace, whether you seek compassionate support individually or as a couple/family in relationship counselling. I'll always be fully present, listening deeply to both the spoken words & the unspoken emotions, offering an empathic, accepting & non-judgemental space, where you'll gain deep, meaningful self-understanding and clarity.
Being a later in life diagnosed Autistic/ADHD counsellor, I offer genuine empathy & understanding if you're overwhelmed, feel isolated or struggling with life - I've been there too.
Together, we will work at your pace, whether you seek compassionate support individually or as a couple/family in relationship counselling. I'll always be fully present, listening deeply to both the spoken words & the unspoken emotions, offering an empathic, accepting & non-judgemental space, where you'll gain deep, meaningful self-understanding and clarity.
01270 447746 View 01270 447746
Photo of Dr Lucy Chantrey - Dr Lucy Chantrey, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Dr Lucy Chantrey
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I specialise in trauma-informed psychotherapy and mentoring for parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young people, with a focus on supporting parents of autistic girls.
With 15 years as a BACP-accredited integrative psychotherapist and trauma specialist, plus 25 years in the autism field, I provide compassionate, individualized support. EMDR is a powerful tool for addressing trauma from challenges like school refusal and demand avoidance but is always offered based on what feels right for you.
I specialise in trauma-informed psychotherapy and mentoring for parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young people, with a focus on supporting parents of autistic girls.
With 15 years as a BACP-accredited integrative psychotherapist and trauma specialist, plus 25 years in the autism field, I provide compassionate, individualized support. EMDR is a powerful tool for addressing trauma from challenges like school refusal and demand avoidance but is always offered based on what feels right for you.
01824 733692 View 01824 733692
Photo of Joanne Morley, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Joanne Morley
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Joanne, and I’m a fully qualified, BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist based in Liverpool (L26), working with Think CBT. For over 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals facing challenges with their mental health and emotional wellbeing. Through my training and experience, I’ve developed a range of evidence-based tools to help people find relief from emotional distress and navigate life’s difficulties with greater resilience.
Hello, my name is Joanne, and I’m a fully qualified, BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist based in Liverpool (L26), working with Think CBT. For over 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals facing challenges with their mental health and emotional wellbeing. Through my training and experience, I’ve developed a range of evidence-based tools to help people find relief from emotional distress and navigate life’s difficulties with greater resilience.
01923 961432 View 01923 961432
Photo of Laura Jayne Arstall - In Toto Counselling, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
In Toto Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
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
Photo of Annabelle Smith, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Annabelle Smith
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Chester CH1
Hi there. Integrative therapist with many years experience. Working with ages 14+. Offering variable hours. Working in Chester, Heswall and online. Special interest and further training in Anxiety, OCD and all forms of childhood abuse/trauma. I’m committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I will be alongside you on your journey and together will explore what has been going on in your life and look at the bits you are not happy with. I will support you as you pick up new skills or adapt ones that you already had to find a way forward that feels better for you.
Hi there. Integrative therapist with many years experience. Working with ages 14+. Offering variable hours. Working in Chester, Heswall and online. Special interest and further training in Anxiety, OCD and all forms of childhood abuse/trauma. I’m committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I will be alongside you on your journey and together will explore what has been going on in your life and look at the bits you are not happy with. I will support you as you pick up new skills or adapt ones that you already had to find a way forward that feels better for you.
01244 667191 View 01244 667191
Photo of Rachel Cooper, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Rachel Cooper
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Chester CH1
As an art psychotherapist, I see clients of all ages and use creativity within therapy. I believe being creative is more powerful than just using words. This is not about art, but creatively expressing our difficulties to bring freedom. I help you to use creative ways to get to the root of a problem, allowing you to go at your own pace.
As an art psychotherapist, I see clients of all ages and use creativity within therapy. I believe being creative is more powerful than just using words. This is not about art, but creatively expressing our difficulties to bring freedom. I help you to use creative ways to get to the root of a problem, allowing you to go at your own pace.
0151 453 0191 View 0151 453 0191
Photo of Dr Lucy Flitton, Psychologist, PhD, FMBPsS
Dr Lucy Flitton
Psychologist, PhD, FMBPsS
Online Only
If constant freeze, dissociation, or the weight of past trauma makes your body feel unsafe or your life feel disconnected, you're not broken — your nervous system has been protecting you. Healing begins with gentle, body-centred steps toward safety and meaning. As a somatic trauma specialist and psychologist (PhD), I guide survivors of complex trauma through embodied recovery using somatic practices (nervous system regulation, titration, pendulation), polyvagal-informed tools, and integrative depth approaches. Blending these tools, we thaw frozen states, release survival energy, and foster post-traumatic growth — at your pace.
If constant freeze, dissociation, or the weight of past trauma makes your body feel unsafe or your life feel disconnected, you're not broken — your nervous system has been protecting you. Healing begins with gentle, body-centred steps toward safety and meaning. As a somatic trauma specialist and psychologist (PhD), I guide survivors of complex trauma through embodied recovery using somatic practices (nervous system regulation, titration, pendulation), polyvagal-informed tools, and integrative depth approaches. Blending these tools, we thaw frozen states, release survival energy, and foster post-traumatic growth — at your pace.
01244 564148 View 01244 564148
Photo of Jordan Schofield, Counsellor, MBACP
Jordan Schofield
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Chester CH1
I work with adults, older adults, children, and young people from all walks of life who may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, stress, or feeling overwhelmed. Some clients come to counselling wanting support through a specific challenge, while others may simply feel stuck and unsure of why. I aim to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions openly, helping them better understand themselves and move forward at their own pace.
I work with adults, older adults, children, and young people from all walks of life who may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, stress, or feeling overwhelmed. Some clients come to counselling wanting support through a specific challenge, while others may simply feel stuck and unsure of why. I aim to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions openly, helping them better understand themselves and move forward at their own pace.
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Photo of Samantha Wilkins, Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Samantha Wilkins
Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Chester CH2
Samantha brings a non-judgemental and open-minded approach to her practice, creating a safe space for individuals and couples to explore their sexual desires and preferences, including those that fall outside of the traditional norms. Samantha works with a range of sexual function issues and relationship problems, of which she has a deep understanding of empathy and acceptance. Samantha’s clients appreciate her warmth, understanding and her ability to integrate her diverse experiences into her therapeutic practice fostering a sense of safety and trust.
Samantha brings a non-judgemental and open-minded approach to her practice, creating a safe space for individuals and couples to explore their sexual desires and preferences, including those that fall outside of the traditional norms. Samantha works with a range of sexual function issues and relationship problems, of which she has a deep understanding of empathy and acceptance. Samantha’s clients appreciate her warmth, understanding and her ability to integrate her diverse experiences into her therapeutic practice fostering a sense of safety and trust.
01928 243257 View 01928 243257
Photo of Jennifer Atkinson, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Jennifer Atkinson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Chester CH2
I’m a BACP-registered psychotherapist with over 15 years’ experience supporting adults, children and families through trauma, emotional difficulties and life’s challenges. I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can feel safe to talk openly and at your own pace.
I’m a BACP-registered psychotherapist with over 15 years’ experience supporting adults, children and families through trauma, emotional difficulties and life’s challenges. I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can feel safe to talk openly and at your own pace.
01928 249640 View 01928 249640
Photo of Dr Lisa Paul, Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Dr Lisa Paul
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
1 Endorsed
Chester CH1
I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others.
I can offer you a supportive and non-judgemental place to discuss whatever you bring to therapy. I believe that the key to making changes is inherent within us, but it can take time to explore any issues before it becomes possible to identify it. For this reason, we will work together as a partnership, and rely on your authentic self to guide the process.
I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others.
I can offer you a supportive and non-judgemental place to discuss whatever you bring to therapy. I believe that the key to making changes is inherent within us, but it can take time to explore any issues before it becomes possible to identify it. For this reason, we will work together as a partnership, and rely on your authentic self to guide the process.
01244 667281 View 01244 667281
Photo of Matthew Adam, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Matthew Adam
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
2 Endorsed
Chester CH4
I have helped children, young people and their parents and couples work through a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood/depression, managing challenging behaviour, Autism, anger management, frequent family clashes, the effects of couple tension, bereavement, and conflict in relationships.
I work with people helping them to think about how they communicate with others and how certain behaviours can be problematic in relationships. My main aim is to help people find new ways of communicating their thoughts and feelings so that loved ones can help them get through their difficulties, because communication is not always a simple process.
I have helped children, young people and their parents and couples work through a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood/depression, managing challenging behaviour, Autism, anger management, frequent family clashes, the effects of couple tension, bereavement, and conflict in relationships.
I work with people helping them to think about how they communicate with others and how certain behaviours can be problematic in relationships. My main aim is to help people find new ways of communicating their thoughts and feelings so that loved ones can help them get through their difficulties, because communication is not always a simple process.
01829 708157 View 01829 708157
Photo of Sophie Littler, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Sophie Littler
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Chester CH1
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and have had training and experience in many different types of psychological therapy. This enables me to offer individualised care based on the person i'm working with rather than treating people based on a generic diagnosis or label.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and have had training and experience in many different types of psychological therapy. This enables me to offer individualised care based on the person i'm working with rather than treating people based on a generic diagnosis or label.
01244 886961 View 01244 886961
Photo of Sophia Williams - understaND Ltd, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
understaND Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Chester CH2
We offer neurodevelopmental assessments ( autism, ADHD, cognitive, dyslexia, and dyscalculia assessments to adults and children.
At understaND, we are passionate about helping people to understand their individual strengths and areas of challenge, so that they can get the best out of themself. We aim to demonstrate that all brains are unique and all are worth treasuring! Differences should be celebrated while also validating the moments that are challenging or frustrating. We want to help you explore the nuances to how your brain works so that you can harness your strengths and ask for help and support from others where needed. This, in turn, leads to understanding from others, too.
We offer neurodevelopmental assessments ( autism, ADHD, cognitive, dyslexia, and dyscalculia assessments to adults and children.
At understaND, we are passionate about helping people to understand their individual strengths and areas of challenge, so that they can get the best out of themself. We aim to demonstrate that all brains are unique and all are worth treasuring! Differences should be celebrated while also validating the moments that are challenging or frustrating. We want to help you explore the nuances to how your brain works so that you can harness your strengths and ask for help and support from others where needed. This, in turn, leads to understanding from others, too.
01244 727458 View 01244 727458
Photo of Philippa Williams, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Philippa Williams
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Chester CH3
Finding a therapist can feel like an overwhelming task, especially when we are at our most vulnerable. You might be struggling with something deeply personal, yet feel unable to express how you truly feel. Perhaps you worry about being judged, misunderstood, or triggering a reaction from someone in your life. Even if you have people around you, it can still feel lonely when you don't feel safe enough to open up.
Finding a therapist can feel like an overwhelming task, especially when we are at our most vulnerable. You might be struggling with something deeply personal, yet feel unable to express how you truly feel. Perhaps you worry about being judged, misunderstood, or triggering a reaction from someone in your life. Even if you have people around you, it can still feel lonely when you don't feel safe enough to open up.
0151 453 8748 View 0151 453 8748
Photo of Rebeca Johnson - Sex and Relationship Therapy @ Trusting Heart, Psychotherapist, COSRT Reg.
Sex and Relationship Therapy @ Trusting Heart
Psychotherapist, COSRT Reg.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel you're drifting apart, stuck in conflict, or living more like roommates? Perhaps you're navigating an affair, struggling with mismatched sexual desire, or communication breakdowns. You want to move from conflict to connection, but you are feeling stuck, wanting to explore the 'why' behind your struggles. Whether you are looking for individual or couple sessions with a specialist who talks openly about intimacy, trust, and sex with honesty and warmth.
Do you feel you're drifting apart, stuck in conflict, or living more like roommates? Perhaps you're navigating an affair, struggling with mismatched sexual desire, or communication breakdowns. You want to move from conflict to connection, but you are feeling stuck, wanting to explore the 'why' behind your struggles. Whether you are looking for individual or couple sessions with a specialist who talks openly about intimacy, trust, and sex with honesty and warmth.
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Photo of Estelle Dooley - Estelle Dooley, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Estelle Dooley
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I offer compassionate support for Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Abuse including Narcissistic abuse, Bereavement, Stress, Work issues, Family issues, Relationship breakdown, Neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD) LGBTQIA, Addiction & more just ask if your issue is not listed here.
I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space for you to explore safely a current situation, something from your past, or a future concern. I will help and support you through. Accredited Award-Winning Therapist and Coach with 18 years of experience in Mental health, Abuse, Grief, Addiction, & more just ask. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, with all the tools you need to make positive changes in your life leaving you feeling empowered, and strong. See my reviews from clients who already have by visiting my website www.estelledooley.com.
I offer compassionate support for Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Abuse including Narcissistic abuse, Bereavement, Stress, Work issues, Family issues, Relationship breakdown, Neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD) LGBTQIA, Addiction & more just ask if your issue is not listed here.
I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space for you to explore safely a current situation, something from your past, or a future concern. I will help and support you through. Accredited Award-Winning Therapist and Coach with 18 years of experience in Mental health, Abuse, Grief, Addiction, & more just ask. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, with all the tools you need to make positive changes in your life leaving you feeling empowered, and strong. See my reviews from clients who already have by visiting my website www.estelledooley.com.
0151 317 2573 View 0151 317 2573
Photo of Dr Sophie Foster, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sophie Foster
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Chester CH2
I work with children, young people, families, and adults who might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of some extra support. Many people come to me wanting to better understand themselves or their child and find a way forward. I provide a safe, welcoming space to explore what’s going on, build on strengths, and feel more connected, whether that’s through therapy or support for parents and carers.
I work with children, young people, families, and adults who might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of some extra support. Many people come to me wanting to better understand themselves or their child and find a way forward. I provide a safe, welcoming space to explore what’s going on, build on strengths, and feel more connected, whether that’s through therapy or support for parents and carers.
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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.