Autism Counselling in Exeter
I’m race and culturally aware, LGBTQIA+ allied, and neuro-affirming, with a special interest in supporting late-discovered neurodivergence, such as Autism and ADHD.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to offer a safe, comfortable confidential space where you can explore your feelings without judgment. Reaching out can be daunting, but I aim to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. Together, we’ll work toward your therapy goals, with trust, openness, and even a bit of humour—therapy doesn’t always have to be serious! I specialize in helping with relationship issues, domestic abuse, trauma, and sexual abuse (both childhood and adult).
I’m race and culturally aware, LGBTQIA+ allied, and neuro-affirming, with a special interest in supporting late-discovered neurodivergence, such as Autism and ADHD.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to offer a safe, comfortable confidential space where you can explore your feelings without judgment. Reaching out can be daunting, but I aim to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. Together, we’ll work toward your therapy goals, with trust, openness, and even a bit of humour—therapy doesn’t always have to be serious! I specialize in helping with relationship issues, domestic abuse, trauma, and sexual abuse (both childhood and adult).
I have undertaken additional studies to deepen my understanding of counselling and neurodiversity, including ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia.
When one of life’s problems becomes overwhelming, you may be feeling anxious or distraught, it can make a real difference prioritising your needs and talking to a counsellor who can listen to you with compassion and without judgement. Life can feel challenging at times, stressful and full of uncertainty; are you struggling to cope with work or family life? Has life set you back? Or are you looking for some peace and calm in your life? Whatever you are struggling with or want to focus on, then I am here to help you.
I have undertaken additional studies to deepen my understanding of counselling and neurodiversity, including ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia.
When one of life’s problems becomes overwhelming, you may be feeling anxious or distraught, it can make a real difference prioritising your needs and talking to a counsellor who can listen to you with compassion and without judgement. Life can feel challenging at times, stressful and full of uncertainty; are you struggling to cope with work or family life? Has life set you back? Or are you looking for some peace and calm in your life? Whatever you are struggling with or want to focus on, then I am here to help you.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists with experience helping young people with the challenges they face such as anxiety, gender identity, social difficulties and exam pressure. I have experience with a local young persons charity and have undertaken training in Autism.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists with experience helping young people with the challenges they face such as anxiety, gender identity, social difficulties and exam pressure. I have experience with a local young persons charity and have undertaken training in Autism.
This Is Me Psychology supports people to recognise, understand and embrace Autism. We work with both Autistic people and their family members to bridge the gap between Neurodivergent people and those who are Neurotypical by helping them to gain the best possible understanding of each other. We use a neuro-affirming approach in our work to help focus on the strengths and achievements that someone has. We offer both short term post-diagnostic support packages and longer term psychology sessions.
This Is Me Psychology supports people to recognise, understand and embrace Autism. We work with both Autistic people and their family members to bridge the gap between Neurodivergent people and those who are Neurotypical by helping them to gain the best possible understanding of each other. We use a neuro-affirming approach in our work to help focus on the strengths and achievements that someone has. We offer both short term post-diagnostic support packages and longer term psychology sessions.
I can support you and your loved ones to overcome a wide range of difficulties, with particular expertise in working with: anxiety, phobias, eating disorders (including Anorexia and ARFID), depression and low mood, neurodiversity ( Autism and ADHD), and physical health conditions.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me who is able to work with family and relational difficulties.
I can support you and your loved ones to overcome a wide range of difficulties, with particular expertise in working with: anxiety, phobias, eating disorders (including Anorexia and ARFID), depression and low mood, neurodiversity ( Autism and ADHD), and physical health conditions.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me who is able to work with family and relational difficulties.
Have you always felt misunderstood or not good enough? Do you feel sad, confused or angry more than you would like ? My clinical background as an advanced nurse practitioner, combined with being a therapist, can give you the platform you need to feel heard, held and understood. Are you curious about the emotional impact of health issues such as menopause, PMS/PMDD, endometriosis, PCOS or fibromyalgia? Do you wonder if you are neurodivergent or are learning to process the joys and difficulties of ADHD and/or autism? Is past trauma holding you back? Are relationships difficult for you? I can help you understand yourself and thrive.
Have you always felt misunderstood or not good enough? Do you feel sad, confused or angry more than you would like ? My clinical background as an advanced nurse practitioner, combined with being a therapist, can give you the platform you need to feel heard, held and understood. Are you curious about the emotional impact of health issues such as menopause, PMS/PMDD, endometriosis, PCOS or fibromyalgia? Do you wonder if you are neurodivergent or are learning to process the joys and difficulties of ADHD and/or autism? Is past trauma holding you back? Are relationships difficult for you? I can help you understand yourself and thrive.
Mel Ciavucco - eating disorders and body image
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Mel. I'm an online Integrative counsellor. I'm passionate about helping people with disordered eating, eating disorders & body image problems, as well as helping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and self-worth & more. I work with people with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating, OSFED - but importantly, you don't need a label to access help. I support people with a range of eating and body image issues, to include weight/shape concerns & dieting. I am neuro-affirmative and work with clients with autism, ADHD and other kinds of neurodivergence. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, weight-inclusive & trauma-informed.
Hi, I'm Mel. I'm an online Integrative counsellor. I'm passionate about helping people with disordered eating, eating disorders & body image problems, as well as helping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and self-worth & more. I work with people with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating, OSFED - but importantly, you don't need a label to access help. I support people with a range of eating and body image issues, to include weight/shape concerns & dieting. I am neuro-affirmative and work with clients with autism, ADHD and other kinds of neurodivergence. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, weight-inclusive & trauma-informed.
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma. I offer both short term, goal focussed work, as well as longer term therapy, depending on your needs. I have a keen interest in working with those who are neurodiverse, as well as supporting those who live with someone who is neurodiverse. As a supervisor, I will work collaboratively with you to explore all aspects of working as a practitioner to support your continuing, ongoing development.
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma. I offer both short term, goal focussed work, as well as longer term therapy, depending on your needs. I have a keen interest in working with those who are neurodiverse, as well as supporting those who live with someone who is neurodiverse. As a supervisor, I will work collaboratively with you to explore all aspects of working as a practitioner to support your continuing, ongoing development.
I'm here to offer a warm, informal and grounded presence. Here, you'll be empowered to safely explore the emotional issues affecting you. As an integrative therapist, I bring multiple therapeutic perspectives to our sessions with down to earth realness, and gentle understanding.
I'm here to offer a warm, informal and grounded presence. Here, you'll be empowered to safely explore the emotional issues affecting you. As an integrative therapist, I bring multiple therapeutic perspectives to our sessions with down to earth realness, and gentle understanding.
As an experienced family therapist in CAMHS and private practice, I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 14 years. I specialise in working with relationships, self-harm, mood difficulties, emotional dysregulation and eating and body image difficulties. Alongside working with families and couples, I have a particular interest in supporting clients who are neurodiverse, diagnosed or self-diagnosed, to live in an authentic and unmasked way that aligns with their values. I provide a compassionate and open space and embrace working in a neuro-affirming way to support you to feel empowered and heard.
As an experienced family therapist in CAMHS and private practice, I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 14 years. I specialise in working with relationships, self-harm, mood difficulties, emotional dysregulation and eating and body image difficulties. Alongside working with families and couples, I have a particular interest in supporting clients who are neurodiverse, diagnosed or self-diagnosed, to live in an authentic and unmasked way that aligns with their values. I provide a compassionate and open space and embrace working in a neuro-affirming way to support you to feel empowered and heard.
Identifying the thoughts, feelings and inner struggles that are holding you back can be daunting, but my role is to walk alongside you, enabling you to find clarity, calm, and good mental health. Central to my counselling ethos is the importance of creating a safe, non-judgemental place, where you are free to be yourself, and to explore any aspect of life that is important to you.
Identifying the thoughts, feelings and inner struggles that are holding you back can be daunting, but my role is to walk alongside you, enabling you to find clarity, calm, and good mental health. Central to my counselling ethos is the importance of creating a safe, non-judgemental place, where you are free to be yourself, and to explore any aspect of life that is important to you.
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The most important thing first: No matter what place you’re in - there is hope for change and for things to get better. You may be reading this feeling vulnerable, disempowered, dejected, fearing disappointment or simply too overwhelmed to know how you feel. I'll meet you wherever you are and with whatever you bring and we can walk through your confusion and distress together. I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of people with an equally diverse range of individual challenges. Spending time exploring your challenges can bring clarity, empower you to break with old patterns and help you find a positive way forward.
The most important thing first: No matter what place you’re in - there is hope for change and for things to get better. You may be reading this feeling vulnerable, disempowered, dejected, fearing disappointment or simply too overwhelmed to know how you feel. I'll meet you wherever you are and with whatever you bring and we can walk through your confusion and distress together. I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of people with an equally diverse range of individual challenges. Spending time exploring your challenges can bring clarity, empower you to break with old patterns and help you find a positive way forward.
Jennifer Smith
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Waitlist for new clients
I offer one-to one Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. This is a well established and evidence-based talking therapy that can effectively treat emotional problems as well as a wide range of mental health conditions including: anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Sessions are booked for the same time every week and range from single to up to three sessions a week. They provide the space to talk about and reflect upon your emotional and relationship difficulties. These are thought about as they relate to your present circumstances but in this type of therapy, they are also considered in relation to your life history.
I offer one-to one Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. This is a well established and evidence-based talking therapy that can effectively treat emotional problems as well as a wide range of mental health conditions including: anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Sessions are booked for the same time every week and range from single to up to three sessions a week. They provide the space to talk about and reflect upon your emotional and relationship difficulties. These are thought about as they relate to your present circumstances but in this type of therapy, they are also considered in relation to your life history.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are is liberating.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are is liberating.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, low mood or are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, call for a free initial session. I am an experienced counsellor with proven success in helping people navigate these issues and get to a better place. My name is James and I am a male counsellor based in Exeter. I am here to support you with a whole range of issues that you may be dealing with, such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief and/or relationships to name but a few. I also have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, low mood or are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, call for a free initial session. I am an experienced counsellor with proven success in helping people navigate these issues and get to a better place. My name is James and I am a male counsellor based in Exeter. I am here to support you with a whole range of issues that you may be dealing with, such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief and/or relationships to name but a few. I also have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.
I'm a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained to MA and Doctoral level respectively with adults and children and adolescents. I'm also a visiting lecturer at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I have experience of working across the age range with a wide variety of mild to moderate, sometimes more severe presenting problems. Some people see me because they're very unhappy, distressed or worried, others come because they want to understand themselves better and they're curious about why they encounter the same patterns.
I'm a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained to MA and Doctoral level respectively with adults and children and adolescents. I'm also a visiting lecturer at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I have experience of working across the age range with a wide variety of mild to moderate, sometimes more severe presenting problems. Some people see me because they're very unhappy, distressed or worried, others come because they want to understand themselves better and they're curious about why they encounter the same patterns.
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
"Having space to talk about how I feel is a waste of time"... said: No one ever! Counselling is all it is cracked up to be. Maybe you want to talk to someone but feel unable to share with family or friends. Perhaps you want to make sense of the feelings you are experiencing. People start to heal when they feel truly heard and, by talking things over with a qualified and professional counsellor, it could help you heal from past or present trauma. My approach is Person Centred Therapy and my style is relaxed and friendly. You talk, I listen and together we find a new way of being.
"Having space to talk about how I feel is a waste of time"... said: No one ever! Counselling is all it is cracked up to be. Maybe you want to talk to someone but feel unable to share with family or friends. Perhaps you want to make sense of the feelings you are experiencing. People start to heal when they feel truly heard and, by talking things over with a qualified and professional counsellor, it could help you heal from past or present trauma. My approach is Person Centred Therapy and my style is relaxed and friendly. You talk, I listen and together we find a new way of being.
What does it mean to be yourself in a society that discourages self-expression? To live in a world that disconnects us from each other and from ourselves. A world that distracts us from what’s important and meaningful. The messages we receive from people is not ‘be who you are’, but instead ‘be what I need’. In such a place, being ourselves is a revolutionary act. In what ways are people telling us to be what they need? I’m glad you asked. It can be as simple as a raised eyebrow, or a disparaging look. Or more obvious do’s and don’ts. We get the message.
What does it mean to be yourself in a society that discourages self-expression? To live in a world that disconnects us from each other and from ourselves. A world that distracts us from what’s important and meaningful. The messages we receive from people is not ‘be who you are’, but instead ‘be what I need’. In such a place, being ourselves is a revolutionary act. In what ways are people telling us to be what they need? I’m glad you asked. It can be as simple as a raised eyebrow, or a disparaging look. Or more obvious do’s and don’ts. We get the message.
See more therapy options for Exeter
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Exeter
- Ashburton
- Crediton
- Cullompton
- Exmouth
- Honiton
- Newton Abbot
- Sidmouth
- South Molton
- Teignmouth
- Tiverton
- Topsham
- Wellington
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.