Autism Counselling in Christchurch

Photo of Claire Boulter, Psychotherapist, PhD, PTUK
Claire Boulter
Psychotherapist, PhD, PTUK
Serves Area
Hi I'm Claire, and I am a certified Play Therapist with Play Therapy UK (PTUK). I qualified in 2021 and work with children experiencing a number of emotional, social and behavioral challenges within their life. This is achieved through a non-directed holistic approach using play as our communication. I have worked within the care industry for over 20years, working alongside both children and adults who have physical disabilities, autism, learning disabilities/difficulties and mental health. I pride myself in hearing a child's voice even when they don't use verbal communication.
Hi I'm Claire, and I am a certified Play Therapist with Play Therapy UK (PTUK). I qualified in 2021 and work with children experiencing a number of emotional, social and behavioral challenges within their life. This is achieved through a non-directed holistic approach using play as our communication. I have worked within the care industry for over 20years, working alongside both children and adults who have physical disabilities, autism, learning disabilities/difficulties and mental health. I pride myself in hearing a child's voice even when they don't use verbal communication.
01736 808717 View 01736 808717
Photo of Thomas Pounds, Counsellor, MBACP
Thomas Pounds
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a BACP Registered and Autism-Informed Counsellor based out of Bournemouth, Dorset.
I’m an Autism-Informed counsellor with lived experience & specialist training in working with neurodivergent clients. Autism & ADHD are key areas of my ongoing training & I work in a Neurodivergent Affirming way. I can support with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, meltdowns, shutdown, burnout & more.
I’m a BACP Registered and Autism-Informed Counsellor based out of Bournemouth, Dorset.
I’m an Autism-Informed counsellor with lived experience & specialist training in working with neurodivergent clients. Autism & ADHD are key areas of my ongoing training & I work in a Neurodivergent Affirming way. I can support with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, meltdowns, shutdown, burnout & more.
07824 153683 View 07824 153683
Photo of Alison Pluck - MindSight Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
MindSight Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced school counsellor & qualified teacher & offer an autism affirming tailored service for young people aged 11+.
Seeking support can be daunting -but you have taken the courageous first step! Working with adults & young people aged 11+, I offer an opportunity for you to explore your relationship with yourself, with others & with the wider world, drawing on your own internal strengths & resources to build your self-awareness & self-acceptance to help you make sense of things & feel more clarity. Stepping away from a focus on diagnoses & labels, working together acknowledging you as an individual we can explore the impact that your own unique set of challenges & experiences has had on your ability to engage with & enjoy the world around you.
I am an experienced school counsellor & qualified teacher & offer an autism affirming tailored service for young people aged 11+.
Seeking support can be daunting -but you have taken the courageous first step! Working with adults & young people aged 11+, I offer an opportunity for you to explore your relationship with yourself, with others & with the wider world, drawing on your own internal strengths & resources to build your self-awareness & self-acceptance to help you make sense of things & feel more clarity. Stepping away from a focus on diagnoses & labels, working together acknowledging you as an individual we can explore the impact that your own unique set of challenges & experiences has had on your ability to engage with & enjoy the world around you.
01202 037450 View 01202 037450
Photo of Laura Whitnell, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Laura Whitnell
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Hello, I'm Laura. When things feel difficult to manage, therapy can help build awareness, understanding, self-compassion and positive change into your life. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental and trustworthy space, where we can explore the past to understand the present, making links, exploring thoughts, feelings and patterns and developing coping skills. ​ I am a fully qualified and experienced BACP accredited counsellor and psychotherapist. I specialise in working with; low mood & depression, worries & anxiety, intrusive thoughts & compulsive responses, trauma and neurodiversity differences.
Hello, I'm Laura. When things feel difficult to manage, therapy can help build awareness, understanding, self-compassion and positive change into your life. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental and trustworthy space, where we can explore the past to understand the present, making links, exploring thoughts, feelings and patterns and developing coping skills. ​ I am a fully qualified and experienced BACP accredited counsellor and psychotherapist. I specialise in working with; low mood & depression, worries & anxiety, intrusive thoughts & compulsive responses, trauma and neurodiversity differences.
07752 004677 View 07752 004677
Photo of Nuala Bissett, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Nuala Bissett
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Hi, I'm Nuala and I am an integrative therapist, qualified to work with both adults and children. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), adhering to their professional standards and guidelines. I draw on a range of approaches to suit my client’s individual needs and goals. I offer a focused series of 6–12 sessions to work through a specific issue which is causing distress, or longer-term counselling to deepen self-understanding, make meaningful changes and improve health and wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Nuala and I am an integrative therapist, qualified to work with both adults and children. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), adhering to their professional standards and guidelines. I draw on a range of approaches to suit my client’s individual needs and goals. I offer a focused series of 6–12 sessions to work through a specific issue which is causing distress, or longer-term counselling to deepen self-understanding, make meaningful changes and improve health and wellbeing.
01865 638112 View 01865 638112
Photo of Dr Sally Rooke, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sally Rooke
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Clinical Psychologists are unique to other type of therapists as we are trained to a high standard in more than one therapeutic approach. This allows me to provide you with an individualised, specialist care plan, using one or more therapeutic approach to suit your needs. As a clinical psychologist I am trained in the use of psychological formulation; together we will consider your past experiences, current difficulties and your strengths in order to provide a thorough understanding of what has lead you to seek support.
Clinical Psychologists are unique to other type of therapists as we are trained to a high standard in more than one therapeutic approach. This allows me to provide you with an individualised, specialist care plan, using one or more therapeutic approach to suit your needs. As a clinical psychologist I am trained in the use of psychological formulation; together we will consider your past experiences, current difficulties and your strengths in order to provide a thorough understanding of what has lead you to seek support.
01202 629264 View 01202 629264
Photo of Cindy Burcham, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Cindy Burcham
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Welcome. Are you struggling to make sense of your feelings and thoughts? Are there life events or social issues that seem impossible to cope with? Perhaps you find some relationships difficult and wish to understand why? Maybe you have a mental health diagnosis and seek to understand a complex range of symptoms and responses to distress. I work with a broad range of clients; exploring low self-esteem, addiction, trauma experiences, depression, grief, anxiety, shame, rage or any of the unique, puzzling or unsettling experiences that have brought you here seeking support and understanding.
Welcome. Are you struggling to make sense of your feelings and thoughts? Are there life events or social issues that seem impossible to cope with? Perhaps you find some relationships difficult and wish to understand why? Maybe you have a mental health diagnosis and seek to understand a complex range of symptoms and responses to distress. I work with a broad range of clients; exploring low self-esteem, addiction, trauma experiences, depression, grief, anxiety, shame, rage or any of the unique, puzzling or unsettling experiences that have brought you here seeking support and understanding.
01425 209936 View 01425 209936
Photo of Janet King - New Horizons Network, Counsellor, MBACP
New Horizons Network
Counsellor, MBACP
New Horizons Network is a team of counsellors, life coaches and psychotherapists. Being able to explore areas of your life which you may wish to understand, improve on or make changes to can make life better, improve relationships and self esteem. We all deserve the best from life. We believe that coaching, counselling and psychotherapy should be accessible to all. With that in mind we offer these services at varying costs according to the level of experience of our network of practitioners. Contact us for a discussion on how we can help you with your needs and put you in touch with the best person for you.
New Horizons Network is a team of counsellors, life coaches and psychotherapists. Being able to explore areas of your life which you may wish to understand, improve on or make changes to can make life better, improve relationships and self esteem. We all deserve the best from life. We believe that coaching, counselling and psychotherapy should be accessible to all. With that in mind we offer these services at varying costs according to the level of experience of our network of practitioners. Contact us for a discussion on how we can help you with your needs and put you in touch with the best person for you.
01425 206739 View 01425 206739
Photo of Aideen Butler - AB Therapy, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
AB Therapy
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
I am a therapeutic counsellor, EMDR and CBT therapist which means I’m trained to help people work who might be struggling with common mental health problems like anxiety or low mood. I offer non-judgemental support that aims to help you make sense of any difficult feeling, moods or behavioural patterns. We will discuss what want to achieve from therapy and together, we will work towards understanding how these difficult experiences started in the first place before working towards finding meaningful, practical solutions that will help you now and in the future.
I am a therapeutic counsellor, EMDR and CBT therapist which means I’m trained to help people work who might be struggling with common mental health problems like anxiety or low mood. I offer non-judgemental support that aims to help you make sense of any difficult feeling, moods or behavioural patterns. We will discuss what want to achieve from therapy and together, we will work towards understanding how these difficult experiences started in the first place before working towards finding meaningful, practical solutions that will help you now and in the future.
01865 638947 View 01865 638947
Photo of Karen Dibbens - Karen Dibbens Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, MBACP
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
01354 705994 View 01354 705994
Photo of Sally Coombe, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Sally Coombe
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
01737 949810 View 01737 949810
Photo of Andrew Christopher Wright, Psychotherapist, MRes, HCPC-Art Therap.
Andrew Christopher Wright
Psychotherapist, MRes, HCPC-Art Therap.
I am an internationally recognised psychotherapist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), trained at Goldsmiths, University of London in 2002. I have worked in London, Singapore, and Dubai, and my work has been published in a peer-reviewed journal on communication and emotional regulation. I offer a safe, supportive space for people who feel stuck or find it hard to express themselves. Through creative and reflective approaches, I help people gain clarity, build confidence, and develop greater self-kindness as they move forward.
I am an internationally recognised psychotherapist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), trained at Goldsmiths, University of London in 2002. I have worked in London, Singapore, and Dubai, and my work has been published in a peer-reviewed journal on communication and emotional regulation. I offer a safe, supportive space for people who feel stuck or find it hard to express themselves. Through creative and reflective approaches, I help people gain clarity, build confidence, and develop greater self-kindness as they move forward.
01425 209940 View 01425 209940
Photo of Andrea Karina Johnstone, Counsellor, DCounsPsych
Andrea Karina Johnstone
Counsellor, DCounsPsych
is life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from stress.? I can help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you at your own pace. I provide a confidential, non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way, and help you live your best life.
is life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from stress.? I can help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you at your own pace. I provide a confidential, non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way, and help you live your best life.
01202 057101 View 01202 057101
Photo of Laura Lanza, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Laura Lanza
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anxiety and depression are the 'tip of the iceberg'! Individuals lose hope when they lose vision, together we delve and explore into present and past experiences and significant life events in a gentle and creative way. In counselling you can begin to understand what part of you wants to be heard and understood. So in time you can learn new ways to change your actions and change your behaviour and steer your life in the direction that you want. It might be frustrating at times but trust the process and you will surprise yourself at how capable you are. 'Please note that I do Online Counselling only.'
Anxiety and depression are the 'tip of the iceberg'! Individuals lose hope when they lose vision, together we delve and explore into present and past experiences and significant life events in a gentle and creative way. In counselling you can begin to understand what part of you wants to be heard and understood. So in time you can learn new ways to change your actions and change your behaviour and steer your life in the direction that you want. It might be frustrating at times but trust the process and you will surprise yourself at how capable you are. 'Please note that I do Online Counselling only.'
01202 144045 View 01202 144045
Photo of Vicki Pearson, Counsellor, MBACP
Vicki Pearson
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a neurodivergent practitioner, I specialise in neurodivergent coaching and therapy.
I help people manage anxiety, relieve stress, motivate them out of depression and other challenges, including panic attacks, trauma, family issues, attachment disorder, suicidal ideation, bereavement, low self-esteem, and many more. I also specialise in Autism and Neurodiversity.
As a neurodivergent practitioner, I specialise in neurodivergent coaching and therapy.
I help people manage anxiety, relieve stress, motivate them out of depression and other challenges, including panic attacks, trauma, family issues, attachment disorder, suicidal ideation, bereavement, low self-esteem, and many more. I also specialise in Autism and Neurodiversity.
01202 125535 View 01202 125535
Photo of Dr Claudia Copestake, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Claudia Copestake
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Hello and welcome to Victory Psychology. I am a consultant clinical psychologist working with Veterans, and adults (16+) experiencing mental health difficulties, covering Dorset, surrounding areas, but mostly I am online. Aswell as having specialist skills in treating combat and civilian PTSD, and complex trauma, I also I treat anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, and peri natal mental health. I also specialise in therapy for those who have sustained brain injury, stroke, life changing injuries and neurological disorders. In addition, I conduct cognitive capacity assessments for legal teams and the court.
Hello and welcome to Victory Psychology. I am a consultant clinical psychologist working with Veterans, and adults (16+) experiencing mental health difficulties, covering Dorset, surrounding areas, but mostly I am online. Aswell as having specialist skills in treating combat and civilian PTSD, and complex trauma, I also I treat anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, and peri natal mental health. I also specialise in therapy for those who have sustained brain injury, stroke, life changing injuries and neurological disorders. In addition, I conduct cognitive capacity assessments for legal teams and the court.
View
Photo of Dr Wayne Adlem - Relink Therapy - (psychosexual/sex) Bournemouth, Psychologist
Dr Wayne Adlem - Local Expert on Relationships & Psychosexual issues. Wayne has worked with many individuals and couples overcome issues of an intimate and personal nature to find fulfillment in their lives. • Fully insured via a combined treatment policy which includes: Professional liability/Indemnity & Public & Products liability. • Holds an Enhanced DBS Clearance certificate and is subscribed to the update service. • You can see the reviews from past clients on the Relink Therapy Website. • Policies & Procedures are in place for clarity and consistency. • Holds a UK Business bank account for all transactions.
Dr Wayne Adlem - Local Expert on Relationships & Psychosexual issues. Wayne has worked with many individuals and couples overcome issues of an intimate and personal nature to find fulfillment in their lives. • Fully insured via a combined treatment policy which includes: Professional liability/Indemnity & Public & Products liability. • Holds an Enhanced DBS Clearance certificate and is subscribed to the update service. • You can see the reviews from past clients on the Relink Therapy Website. • Policies & Procedures are in place for clarity and consistency. • Holds a UK Business bank account for all transactions.
07922 409415 View 07922 409415
Photo of Esther du Sautoy, Psychotherapist, PsychD, PTUK
Esther du Sautoy
Psychotherapist, PsychD, PTUK
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Esther, a children's Play Therapist and Person-Centred Counsellor based in Poole, Dorset. With warmth, calm and empathy, I offer a safe space and trusting relationship, in which children can explore their feelings and difficulties at their own level and pace; difficulties, which may be impacting wellbeing, self-esteem, family life, friendships or engagement with learning. My driving passion is providing early help for young children, to strengthen resilience and prevent significant mental health difficulties as they grow.
Hello, I’m Esther, a children's Play Therapist and Person-Centred Counsellor based in Poole, Dorset. With warmth, calm and empathy, I offer a safe space and trusting relationship, in which children can explore their feelings and difficulties at their own level and pace; difficulties, which may be impacting wellbeing, self-esteem, family life, friendships or engagement with learning. My driving passion is providing early help for young children, to strengthen resilience and prevent significant mental health difficulties as they grow.
01202 144717 View 01202 144717
Photo of Rob Upton, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Rob Upton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
On the outside, you seem fine - calm, capable, holding it all together. But inside, it’s a different story. I work with adults who are silently battling with pressure, anger, or a sense that something is missing from their lives. Many people I work with describe a feeling of living behind a mask, smiling, coping, keeping up appearances, while privately battling anxiety, low mood, grief, or a sense of disconnection. If that resonates with you, you're not alone. I can help. I'm Rob Upton. I specialise in working with adults and young people who are seeking relief from these pressures.
On the outside, you seem fine - calm, capable, holding it all together. But inside, it’s a different story. I work with adults who are silently battling with pressure, anger, or a sense that something is missing from their lives. Many people I work with describe a feeling of living behind a mask, smiling, coping, keeping up appearances, while privately battling anxiety, low mood, grief, or a sense of disconnection. If that resonates with you, you're not alone. I can help. I'm Rob Upton. I specialise in working with adults and young people who are seeking relief from these pressures.
01252 964442 View 01252 964442
Photo of Donna Marie Morgan - ReWellness Counselling-Specialising in Children, Counsellor, MBACP
ReWellness Counselling - Specialising in Children & Teens Offers 5 Star, private therapy for all ages from our welcoming centre in Broadstone, Poole, Dorset. We also offer Relationship Therapy, Parent Coaching, Family Therapy, Individual Counselling, Play Therapy as well as our work with Children & Teens
ReWellness Counselling - Specialising in Children & Teens Offers 5 Star, private therapy for all ages from our welcoming centre in Broadstone, Poole, Dorset. We also offer Relationship Therapy, Parent Coaching, Family Therapy, Individual Counselling, Play Therapy as well as our work with Children & Teens
01202 013934 View 01202 013934

See more therapy options for Christchurch

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.