Autism Counselling in Dereham

Photo of Clarissa Smith, Psychotherapist, PTUK Accred
Clarissa Smith
Psychotherapist, PTUK Accred
Dereham NR19
Playful Nurture exists to support children in need, be they struggling with social, emotional or behavioural issues. I am committed to co-creating meaningful and safe strategies with children and young people that will enable them to move forward in their life journey in such a way that they can identify, value and use their strengths to work with their difficulties. I am delighted to also share that I was awarded the role of Ambassador for Play Therapy by PTUK.
Playful Nurture exists to support children in need, be they struggling with social, emotional or behavioural issues. I am committed to co-creating meaningful and safe strategies with children and young people that will enable them to move forward in their life journey in such a way that they can identify, value and use their strengths to work with their difficulties. I am delighted to also share that I was awarded the role of Ambassador for Play Therapy by PTUK.
01362 702972 View 01362 702972
Photo of Janine Daws, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Janine Daws
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Dereham NR19
I am an Integrative Therapist and fully believe every individual has the ability to make changes for themselves...sometimes it takes for someone to walk with you on that journey to help you see, support and nurture what is already there but hidden from view. I pride myself on providing a confidential, safe, welcoming space for people to feel comfortable to explore any feelings and emotions which may be causing some discomfort in their every day life.
I am an Integrative Therapist and fully believe every individual has the ability to make changes for themselves...sometimes it takes for someone to walk with you on that journey to help you see, support and nurture what is already there but hidden from view. I pride myself on providing a confidential, safe, welcoming space for people to feel comfortable to explore any feelings and emotions which may be causing some discomfort in their every day life.
01362 702990 View 01362 702990
Photo of Sophie Shapter, PsychD
Sophie Shapter
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Sophie, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in anxiety, OCD, phobias and trauma. Many of the people I work with are high-functioning on the outside, but internally feel overwhelmed by worry, intrusive thoughts, or patterns they can’t seem to break. You might find yourself overthinking, avoiding situations, replaying conversations, or feeling stuck in cycles of fear or self-criticism. Together we can find you some relief, but also explore and understand why this is happening and how to change it.
Hi, I’m Sophie, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in anxiety, OCD, phobias and trauma. Many of the people I work with are high-functioning on the outside, but internally feel overwhelmed by worry, intrusive thoughts, or patterns they can’t seem to break. You might find yourself overthinking, avoiding situations, replaying conversations, or feeling stuck in cycles of fear or self-criticism. Together we can find you some relief, but also explore and understand why this is happening and how to change it.
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Photo of Suzanne Laura Pearson, Counsellor, MBACP
Suzanne Laura Pearson
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Additional courses include Trauma/Suicide Awareness, Attachment Theory, ADHD, Autism/ ASD, working with children/young adults and anger.
Life can sometimes be challenging and at times we all need support with our emotional well-being, and therapy can help you feel less anxious and more in control. I bring warmth and empathy along with a sense of humour providing a non-judgemental and confidential environment to be there for you.
Additional courses include Trauma/Suicide Awareness, Attachment Theory, ADHD, Autism/ ASD, working with children/young adults and anger.
Life can sometimes be challenging and at times we all need support with our emotional well-being, and therapy can help you feel less anxious and more in control. I bring warmth and empathy along with a sense of humour providing a non-judgemental and confidential environment to be there for you.
01760 302199 View 01760 302199

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Smith - Te Video Counselling. Caroline Smith., Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Te Video Counselling. Caroline Smith.
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Specialise in working with late diagnosed/realised neurodivergent adults, chronic illness, chronic pain conditions and hormonal challenges, childhood trauma, burnout and narcissistic abuse.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I offer a unique tailored service to suit your individual needs. Offering person centred talk therapy, compassion focused therapy, expressive therapies, body based focusing and breathworks depending on what works for you. Offering compassion and curiosity to every session. Sliding scale based on personal finances. £35-£65.
Specialise in working with late diagnosed/realised neurodivergent adults, chronic illness, chronic pain conditions and hormonal challenges, childhood trauma, burnout and narcissistic abuse.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I offer a unique tailored service to suit your individual needs. Offering person centred talk therapy, compassion focused therapy, expressive therapies, body based focusing and breathworks depending on what works for you. Offering compassion and curiosity to every session. Sliding scale based on personal finances. £35-£65.
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Photo of Helena Jane Byrne, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Helena Jane Byrne
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Holt NR25
I am a Systemic and Gestalt counsellor and a registered member of the BACP and I aim to offer a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to explore their feelings. I work with adults and young people. Sometimes we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Therapy can provide the support and framework from which to begin gaining an understanding of yourself and your needs. Talking with a therapist can benefit us in many ways, including giving us a better understanding of our emotions. Therapy can also promote healthy coping mechanisms, improved relationships and achievement of goals.
I am a Systemic and Gestalt counsellor and a registered member of the BACP and I aim to offer a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to explore their feelings. I work with adults and young people. Sometimes we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Therapy can provide the support and framework from which to begin gaining an understanding of yourself and your needs. Talking with a therapist can benefit us in many ways, including giving us a better understanding of our emotions. Therapy can also promote healthy coping mechanisms, improved relationships and achievement of goals.
01263 801374 View 01263 801374
Photo of Jo Tyler, Counsellor, MUKCP
Jo Tyler
Counsellor, MUKCP
Norwich NR3
Hello and welcome. I understand it can be daunting to seek the support of a stranger, and that many factors may have led you to do so. We can all feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, lonely or hurt at times; perhaps we sense that something doesn’t feel “right”, or that the challenges life throws at us are too great to cope with. Sometimes we need someone to witness and be alongside us in our pain, stress, confusion, distress, or lack of ease - however we experience it. I am an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor, offering a warm and compassionate space for you to work with the issues or challenges that you wish to explore.
Hello and welcome. I understand it can be daunting to seek the support of a stranger, and that many factors may have led you to do so. We can all feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, lonely or hurt at times; perhaps we sense that something doesn’t feel “right”, or that the challenges life throws at us are too great to cope with. Sometimes we need someone to witness and be alongside us in our pain, stress, confusion, distress, or lack of ease - however we experience it. I am an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor, offering a warm and compassionate space for you to work with the issues or challenges that you wish to explore.
01603 249552 View 01603 249552
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 Michael Dodden, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Michael Dodden
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Norwich NR8
I work with adults who are ADHD, autistic, AuDHD, late diagnosed, self identifying, or wondering whether neurodivergence explains why life has felt harder than it should.
I specialise in ADHD, autism, AuDHD, burnout, emotional regulation, rejection sensitivity, anxiety, self worth, masking, people pleasing, procrastination, and relationship patterns. I offer therapy and coaching that is practical, emotionally grounded, and focused on helping you understand yourself, steady your nervous system, and create realistic change.
I work with adults who are ADHD, autistic, AuDHD, late diagnosed, self identifying, or wondering whether neurodivergence explains why life has felt harder than it should.
I specialise in ADHD, autism, AuDHD, burnout, emotional regulation, rejection sensitivity, anxiety, self worth, masking, people pleasing, procrastination, and relationship patterns. I offer therapy and coaching that is practical, emotionally grounded, and focused on helping you understand yourself, steady your nervous system, and create realistic change.
01603 361322 View 01603 361322
Photo of Dr Ciara Glennon, Psychologist, PsychD
Dr Ciara Glennon
Psychologist, PsychD
Norwich NR2
I am an experienced Clincal Psychologist, offering support if you are experiencing distress- whether this is low mood, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or relational issues. I have special interest in attachment and trauma related difficulties and perinatal mental health. I also have a keen interest in supporting individuals and parents with understanding neurodivergence. My approach is always underpinned by compassion and curiosity- your difficulties will make sense and be understandable in the context of your life experiences. Any work we do will be person centred and collaborative, going at the pace that feels safe and right for you.
I am an experienced Clincal Psychologist, offering support if you are experiencing distress- whether this is low mood, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or relational issues. I have special interest in attachment and trauma related difficulties and perinatal mental health. I also have a keen interest in supporting individuals and parents with understanding neurodivergence. My approach is always underpinned by compassion and curiosity- your difficulties will make sense and be understandable in the context of your life experiences. Any work we do will be person centred and collaborative, going at the pace that feels safe and right for you.
01603 361682 View 01603 361682
Photo of Dr Dorothy Szinay, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Dr Dorothy Szinay
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Online Only
You may be a neurodivergent adult, part of a neurodivergent couple, or supporting a neurodivergent loved one, feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or stuck despite having tried many approaches already.
I offer practical, tailored support to help reduce anxiety, build confidence, and develop ways of living and relating that feel more manageable and sustainable. Together, we focus on understanding patterns in emotions, communication, and relationships, particularly where one or both partners are neurodivergent.
You may be a neurodivergent adult, part of a neurodivergent couple, or supporting a neurodivergent loved one, feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or stuck despite having tried many approaches already.
I offer practical, tailored support to help reduce anxiety, build confidence, and develop ways of living and relating that feel more manageable and sustainable. Together, we focus on understanding patterns in emotions, communication, and relationships, particularly where one or both partners are neurodivergent.
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Photo of Ana Garcia, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Ana Garcia
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
This may include struggling with waiting lists for support or guidance around Autism and/or ADHD?
I deliver CBT, which can be for yourself, your family or your child, as I have a specialism in working with children and their families. This includes offering consultations to parents seeking advice and support for a range of topics. I also bring in other approaches (DBT, trauma and attachment) alongside experiences of fostering and adoption
This may include struggling with waiting lists for support or guidance around Autism and/or ADHD?
I deliver CBT, which can be for yourself, your family or your child, as I have a specialism in working with children and their families. This includes offering consultations to parents seeking advice and support for a range of topics. I also bring in other approaches (DBT, trauma and attachment) alongside experiences of fostering and adoption
01225 258839 View 01225 258839
Photo of Jen Stone - Sunshine Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Sunshine Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi I'm Jen, as an autistic therapist I understand first-hand how exhausting it can be to navigate a world designed for neurotypical ways of thinking and communicating.
Feeling like you don't belong in this world is a familiar feeling to me, I do not always fit well into most peoples normal. I can fully empathise with feelings of alienation, despair and not good enough. I'm proud to be able to offer all my clients a sense of belonging, and calm, to feel understood, heard and most of all accepted for who you are.
Hi I'm Jen, as an autistic therapist I understand first-hand how exhausting it can be to navigate a world designed for neurotypical ways of thinking and communicating.
Feeling like you don't belong in this world is a familiar feeling to me, I do not always fit well into most peoples normal. I can fully empathise with feelings of alienation, despair and not good enough. I'm proud to be able to offer all my clients a sense of belonging, and calm, to feel understood, heard and most of all accepted for who you are.
01767 661162 View 01767 661162
Photo of Ness Cooper, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Ness Cooper
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Norwich NR11
Relationship and intimacy focused therapy can feel like the last attempt. You've tried everything else or its gotten to point where change doesn't sound possible. But that's where I come in, and help you work through these challenges to gain the clarity you need to move in the direction you need. Not everyone is in a relationship when they come and see me, they may be processing old relationships or look towards the future. Whether you're an individual, couple or polyamorous group I can help you work through relationship dynamics, to, sexual issues, and more.
Relationship and intimacy focused therapy can feel like the last attempt. You've tried everything else or its gotten to point where change doesn't sound possible. But that's where I come in, and help you work through these challenges to gain the clarity you need to move in the direction you need. Not everyone is in a relationship when they come and see me, they may be processing old relationships or look towards the future. Whether you're an individual, couple or polyamorous group I can help you work through relationship dynamics, to, sexual issues, and more.
01263 808952 View 01263 808952
Photo of Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Norwich NR10
I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
Prior to getting my clinical doctorate, I completed a PhD, MSc in Forensic Psychology, and a BSc (Hons) in Psychology. I am published researcher and have presented my findings at international conferences. I continue to develop my knowledge and regularly undertake further training. I am currently training in EMDR and will soon be able to offer sessions.
I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
Prior to getting my clinical doctorate, I completed a PhD, MSc in Forensic Psychology, and a BSc (Hons) in Psychology. I am published researcher and have presented my findings at international conferences. I continue to develop my knowledge and regularly undertake further training. I am currently training in EMDR and will soon be able to offer sessions.
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Photo of Raquel Navarro Martinez, MSc
Raquel Navarro Martinez
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence...
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence...
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
020 4538 4677 View 020 4538 4677
Photo of Chevair Leeding, Counsellor, MBACP
Chevair Leeding
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with autism, ADHD, and gender diversity, creating a space that is inclusive, affirming, and free of judgment.
Hi, I'm Chevair and I know how overwhelming it can feel to struggle with intense emotions, distress, or relationship challenges. If you feel stuck in cycles of emotional pain, impulsivity, or disconnection, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. With over 14 years of experience as a therapist—and the last five specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)for The Priory Hospital—I help people develop the skills they need to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and build meaningful relationships.
I have extensive experience working with autism, ADHD, and gender diversity, creating a space that is inclusive, affirming, and free of judgment.
Hi, I'm Chevair and I know how overwhelming it can feel to struggle with intense emotions, distress, or relationship challenges. If you feel stuck in cycles of emotional pain, impulsivity, or disconnection, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. With over 14 years of experience as a therapist—and the last five specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)for The Priory Hospital—I help people develop the skills they need to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and build meaningful relationships.
01702 680412 View 01702 680412
Photo of Dr Emma Rivett - Dr Emma Rivett | EMDR and Adult Autism Assessments, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Emma Rivett | EMDR and Adult Autism Assessments
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Some are exploring whether they may be autistic and are seeking a thoughtful adult autism assessment to better understand themselves.
I offer a compassionate, supportive space where we can explore your experiences and difficulties together. In therapy, I use approaches such as EMDR to help process the impact of past experiences. I also provide adult autism assessments for those seeking clarity and deeper understanding of their lifelong experiences and identity, including exploring masking.
Some are exploring whether they may be autistic and are seeking a thoughtful adult autism assessment to better understand themselves.
I offer a compassionate, supportive space where we can explore your experiences and difficulties together. In therapy, I use approaches such as EMDR to help process the impact of past experiences. I also provide adult autism assessments for those seeking clarity and deeper understanding of their lifelong experiences and identity, including exploring masking.
07585 528319 View 07585 528319
Photo of Matt Willis (Neurodivergent), Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Matt Willis (Neurodivergent)
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a neurodivergent ( autistic, ADHD & dyspraxia) person myself, I really enjoy working with those exploring their own neurodivergence.
I’m Matt, I’m a qualified therapist and counsellor. I’m a real human and will bring my warmth, humour, care, honesty and acceptance to our sessions. I am specialised in the person-centred approach, which puts our relationship at the centre of therapy. We will work together to understand you, to help you process and to help you feel better within yourself. Who you choose as your therapist is a really personal choice. Probably the most important aspect of therapy is a good relationship between the therapist and the client. Really it’s about who you like, who you connect with and crucially who you feel that you can trust.
As a neurodivergent ( autistic, ADHD & dyspraxia) person myself, I really enjoy working with those exploring their own neurodivergence.
I’m Matt, I’m a qualified therapist and counsellor. I’m a real human and will bring my warmth, humour, care, honesty and acceptance to our sessions. I am specialised in the person-centred approach, which puts our relationship at the centre of therapy. We will work together to understand you, to help you process and to help you feel better within yourself. Who you choose as your therapist is a really personal choice. Probably the most important aspect of therapy is a good relationship between the therapist and the client. Really it’s about who you like, who you connect with and crucially who you feel that you can trust.
01446 501362 View 01446 501362
Photo of Jo Ingram, Counsellor, MBACP
Jo Ingram
Counsellor, MBACP
Diss IP22
Hello & welcome, my name is Jo. Whether you are undecided about embarking on your therapeutic journey or are aware of the challenges that you would like to explore, finding the right counsellor for you is an essential part of the process. There are times when life can be challenging, you may be experiencing difficulties within relationships, suffering from feelings of depression, anxiety or hopelessness. I offer a confidential space for you to explore the challenges you are facing & can work with you to enable healing & help you manage the difficulties you are experiencing.
Hello & welcome, my name is Jo. Whether you are undecided about embarking on your therapeutic journey or are aware of the challenges that you would like to explore, finding the right counsellor for you is an essential part of the process. There are times when life can be challenging, you may be experiencing difficulties within relationships, suffering from feelings of depression, anxiety or hopelessness. I offer a confidential space for you to explore the challenges you are facing & can work with you to enable healing & help you manage the difficulties you are experiencing.
07939 437887 View 07939 437887
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.