Autism Counselling in Ferndown
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.
If you’re thinking about counselling, you might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that are hard to shift. You may be in fight, flight, or freeze—constantly overthinking, disconnected, or carrying emotional weight that lives in both body and mind. You might be longing to feel calmer, more present, and more like yourself again, but unsure where to start.
You’re seeking a space to slow down, breathe, and begin making sense of what’s going on inside.
If you’re thinking about counselling, you might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that are hard to shift. You may be in fight, flight, or freeze—constantly overthinking, disconnected, or carrying emotional weight that lives in both body and mind. You might be longing to feel calmer, more present, and more like yourself again, but unsure where to start.
You’re seeking a space to slow down, breathe, and begin making sense of what’s going on inside.
You might be carrying more than feels manageable right now. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or unsure of how to make sense of your experiences. Maybe you have been trying to cope on your own for a long time, or you have reached a point where something needs to shift but you're not sure where to start.
In our sessions you won't have to hold all of this by yourself. You'll have a calm, safe space where you can unpack your feelings at a pace that feels right for you. I blend talking therapy with creative approaches, giving you different ways to express yourself and explore what's going on beneath the surface.
You might be carrying more than feels manageable right now. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or unsure of how to make sense of your experiences. Maybe you have been trying to cope on your own for a long time, or you have reached a point where something needs to shift but you're not sure where to start.
In our sessions you won't have to hold all of this by yourself. You'll have a calm, safe space where you can unpack your feelings at a pace that feels right for you. I blend talking therapy with creative approaches, giving you different ways to express yourself and explore what's going on beneath the surface.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what to do next? I offer therapeutic coaching and strengths-based counselling to help adults navigate life transitions and crossroads, including career changes, redundancy or retirement, relationship shifts, parenthood or empty nest, health challenges, and re-evaluating mid- or later life.
My integrative approach is compassionate, pragmatic, and action-focused. Together, we turn uncertainty into clear, achievable steps that help you gain focus, confidence, and reconnect with what matters most.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what to do next? I offer therapeutic coaching and strengths-based counselling to help adults navigate life transitions and crossroads, including career changes, redundancy or retirement, relationship shifts, parenthood or empty nest, health challenges, and re-evaluating mid- or later life.
My integrative approach is compassionate, pragmatic, and action-focused. Together, we turn uncertainty into clear, achievable steps that help you gain focus, confidence, and reconnect with what matters most.
From personal experience I know that reaching out to get the support you need can be extremely daunting but you've just taken that first step. Welcome! I offer you my compassion, care and understanding as we, together explore whatever has brought you to therapy, ensuring you gain the support you deserve. Through our therapeutic relationship I can support you in exploring your thoughts, feelings and experiences as you reach a deeper understanding of your self.
From personal experience I know that reaching out to get the support you need can be extremely daunting but you've just taken that first step. Welcome! I offer you my compassion, care and understanding as we, together explore whatever has brought you to therapy, ensuring you gain the support you deserve. Through our therapeutic relationship I can support you in exploring your thoughts, feelings and experiences as you reach a deeper understanding of your self.
More Therapists Nearby
I work with autistic and ADHD children, young people and adults, as well as those navigating trauma or exploring whether these labels fit.
I offer calm, autism- and ADHD-aware therapy that moves at your pace. Together we make sense of overwhelm, behaviour and relationships without trying to “fix” who you are. I also provide space for parents to think clearly about next steps and feel less alone in the process.
I work with autistic and ADHD children, young people and adults, as well as those navigating trauma or exploring whether these labels fit.
I offer calm, autism- and ADHD-aware therapy that moves at your pace. Together we make sense of overwhelm, behaviour and relationships without trying to “fix” who you are. I also provide space for parents to think clearly about next steps and feel less alone in the process.
My work is neuroaffirming, and I support adults exploring life through the lens of neurodivergence (including Autism, ADHD).
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced Counsellor, Psychotherapist, and Supervisor offering a warm, supportive space for individuals and couples. Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, or isolating—and sometimes we just need a place to work things through without judgment.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, relationships, identity, or feeling stuck, we can work together to understand what’s going on and find healthier, more resilient ways forward.
I am a sex-positive, GDSR, Kink-affirming therapist who supports those exploring their sexualities and desires without shame or judgment. I specialise in problematic porn use.
My work is neuroaffirming, and I support adults exploring life through the lens of neurodivergence (including Autism, ADHD).
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced Counsellor, Psychotherapist, and Supervisor offering a warm, supportive space for individuals and couples. Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, or isolating—and sometimes we just need a place to work things through without judgment.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, relationships, identity, or feeling stuck, we can work together to understand what’s going on and find healthier, more resilient ways forward.
I am a sex-positive, GDSR, Kink-affirming therapist who supports those exploring their sexualities and desires without shame or judgment. I specialise in problematic porn use.
In addition to this, I have specialist skills and experience in working with children, young people and adults on the autism spectrum (some of whom may also have associated learning disabilities).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I offer direct one-to-one therapeutic work (currently via online practice), family sessions and parenting sessions. I also offer training and workshops to both families and professionals, particularly in relation to lifespan needs on the autism spectrum.
In addition to this, I have specialist skills and experience in working with children, young people and adults on the autism spectrum (some of whom may also have associated learning disabilities).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I offer direct one-to-one therapeutic work (currently via online practice), family sessions and parenting sessions. I also offer training and workshops to both families and professionals, particularly in relation to lifespan needs on the autism spectrum.
Perhaps you have been diagnosed with ADHA or Autism later in life, this can have a big impact on your life, you might want to explore this further.
I work with CBT/ DBT and mindfullness for people with ADHD, which has proven to be successful. My training was Person-centered.I have great understanding in working with adults, young people, older adults, couples and families. I have worked in agencies and gave support in a secondary school to staff and students.
Perhaps you have been diagnosed with ADHA or Autism later in life, this can have a big impact on your life, you might want to explore this further.
I work with CBT/ DBT and mindfullness for people with ADHD, which has proven to be successful. My training was Person-centered.I have great understanding in working with adults, young people, older adults, couples and families. I have worked in agencies and gave support in a secondary school to staff and students.
As someone who is autistic and ADHD, I deeply understand sensory and emotional overwhelm, and I create a space where all parts of you are welcomed.
I offer a safe, accepting space to explore what’s holding you back. Being autistic and ADHD helps me notice patterns others might miss, and bring compassion to the messy, human bits of life. My integrative approach combines person-centred, humanistic, and mindfulness-based methods, alongside practical tools and creative exercises.
As someone who is autistic and ADHD, I deeply understand sensory and emotional overwhelm, and I create a space where all parts of you are welcomed.
I offer a safe, accepting space to explore what’s holding you back. Being autistic and ADHD helps me notice patterns others might miss, and bring compassion to the messy, human bits of life. My integrative approach combines person-centred, humanistic, and mindfulness-based methods, alongside practical tools and creative exercises.
I support trauma-affected and neurodivergent adults and teens ( Autism, ADHD, OCD, high sensitivity) who feel anxious, disconnected, or pushed beyond their capacity.
I specialise in trauma, Autism, ADHD, anxiety, dissociation and grief.
My approach is somatic (body-based) and trauma-informed, supporting you to work with your nervous system and body, not just your thoughts. We go at your pace, building safety, trust and connection so that healing feels manageable and grounded.
I support trauma-affected and neurodivergent adults and teens ( Autism, ADHD, OCD, high sensitivity) who feel anxious, disconnected, or pushed beyond their capacity.
I specialise in trauma, Autism, ADHD, anxiety, dissociation and grief.
My approach is somatic (body-based) and trauma-informed, supporting you to work with your nervous system and body, not just your thoughts. We go at your pace, building safety, trust and connection so that healing feels manageable and grounded.
I support autism, SEN, and mental health challenges.
I am a qualified counsellor with a specialist focus on supporting neurodivergent individuals, and I’m here to help you navigate your unique experiences in a safe, non-judgemental environment. My approach is person-centred, working collaboratively with clients to build trust, encourage self-awareness, and foster positive change. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationships, or navigating life as a neurodivergent person, I offer tailored support that respects and embraces your individuality. With experience and understanding of neurodiversity, I aim to create a counselling space that feels supportive.
I support autism, SEN, and mental health challenges.
I am a qualified counsellor with a specialist focus on supporting neurodivergent individuals, and I’m here to help you navigate your unique experiences in a safe, non-judgemental environment. My approach is person-centred, working collaboratively with clients to build trust, encourage self-awareness, and foster positive change. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationships, or navigating life as a neurodivergent person, I offer tailored support that respects and embraces your individuality. With experience and understanding of neurodiversity, I aim to create a counselling space that feels supportive.
I work with adults & young people (aged 11+) using past & present experiences combined with professional skills & understanding to support people with ASD/ autism, ADHD/ADD, addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, work/home/school transitions & trauma.
Are you in a position whereby your struggles or concerns are impacting on your day to day life? Then now could be a good time to seek some support. Often many difficulties overlap and counselling can help bring a sense of clarity by allowing you time to process, understanding, work through difficulties and overcome barriers, to live a more fulfilling life. You may be neuro-curious or have a diagnosis or traits that you want to understand and to learn about your strengths and feel empowered. You may want support with past trauma or help to work through the impact of a loved ones behaviour due to neurodivergence, addiction or trauma.
I work with adults & young people (aged 11+) using past & present experiences combined with professional skills & understanding to support people with ASD/ autism, ADHD/ADD, addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, work/home/school transitions & trauma.
Are you in a position whereby your struggles or concerns are impacting on your day to day life? Then now could be a good time to seek some support. Often many difficulties overlap and counselling can help bring a sense of clarity by allowing you time to process, understanding, work through difficulties and overcome barriers, to live a more fulfilling life. You may be neuro-curious or have a diagnosis or traits that you want to understand and to learn about your strengths and feel empowered. You may want support with past trauma or help to work through the impact of a loved ones behaviour due to neurodivergence, addiction or trauma.
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.
One area that I specialise in is autism and other neurodivergent profiles.
As a gestalt relational counsellor I work with you in the here and now by focusing upon the what and the how of your experience. I do not neglect your past or your future, but instead ask you to consider the impact that your past or future has for you within the present. I am interested in how you perceive your environment and your individual context.
One area that I specialise in is autism and other neurodivergent profiles.
As a gestalt relational counsellor I work with you in the here and now by focusing upon the what and the how of your experience. I do not neglect your past or your future, but instead ask you to consider the impact that your past or future has for you within the present. I am interested in how you perceive your environment and your individual context.
Sometimes life can get tricky with unexpected changes or we can feel stuck. Perhaps experiences from your past are intruding in your daily life?
Sometimes life can get tricky with unexpected changes or we can feel stuck. Perhaps experiences from your past are intruding in your daily life?
In addition to therapy, we are experts in Autism and ADHD assessment/diagnosis.
We recognise that one perspective isn’t always the whole answer so we have a multi-disciplinary team of professionals who can also provide assessments for attention deficit disorder, educational psychology and behavioural assessment and help for challenging or difficult behaviours. We also offer lower cost supervised coaching support.
In addition to therapy, we are experts in Autism and ADHD assessment/diagnosis.
We recognise that one perspective isn’t always the whole answer so we have a multi-disciplinary team of professionals who can also provide assessments for attention deficit disorder, educational psychology and behavioural assessment and help for challenging or difficult behaviours. We also offer lower cost supervised coaching support.
My special areas of interest are trauma, depression, current and historical abuse, identity and self-concept, self-esteem and confidence, autistic clients, anxiety and all anxiety-rooted disorders, relationships/family issues, tackling shame, attachment and loss in all forms including abortion and estrangement.
I have extensive experience working with teens, young people and adults in varying stages of life. We will approach your individual hopes for counselling with curiosity, compassion and courage.
The basis of all my work is a trauma-informed relational approach, and a strong ethical focus. I strongly value and prioritise co-creating an authentic and honest therapeutic relationship with my clients. I do not operate as a blank and neutral observer, and I bring energy and genuine interest to our sessions. This is the foundation of any work we will do together.
My special areas of interest are trauma, depression, current and historical abuse, identity and self-concept, self-esteem and confidence, autistic clients, anxiety and all anxiety-rooted disorders, relationships/family issues, tackling shame, attachment and loss in all forms including abortion and estrangement.
I have extensive experience working with teens, young people and adults in varying stages of life. We will approach your individual hopes for counselling with curiosity, compassion and courage.
The basis of all my work is a trauma-informed relational approach, and a strong ethical focus. I strongly value and prioritise co-creating an authentic and honest therapeutic relationship with my clients. I do not operate as a blank and neutral observer, and I bring energy and genuine interest to our sessions. This is the foundation of any work we will do together.
Coming to know our neurodivergent identity can cause ripples that spread out through all areas of our live, as we begin to understand how it has always impacted on the way we move through the world.
I support you to increase your of understanding of your individual neurodivergent identity and how it impacts on all areas of your life. By integrating the different aspects of your own identity and learning to attend to your individual needs with kindness and compassion you can learn to navigate the waves and ripples you are experiencing.
Coming to know our neurodivergent identity can cause ripples that spread out through all areas of our live, as we begin to understand how it has always impacted on the way we move through the world.
I support you to increase your of understanding of your individual neurodivergent identity and how it impacts on all areas of your life. By integrating the different aspects of your own identity and learning to attend to your individual needs with kindness and compassion you can learn to navigate the waves and ripples you are experiencing.
Experienced at neurodevelopmental assessment and offer post-diagnostic ASD and ADHD therapeutic support.
Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 19+ years of experience in NHS and independent sectors. Extensive background in child health leadership, expertise in the interplay between physical and mental health issues in children with chronic medical conditions, including epilepsy. Offering therapy for children and adolescents with a range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, Functional Neurological Disorder and tic disorders. Advanced training in paediatric neuropsychology informs comprehensive cognitive assessments across skill domains to identify the strengths and weaknesses in a child's cognitive profile.
Experienced at neurodevelopmental assessment and offer post-diagnostic ASD and ADHD therapeutic support.
Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 19+ years of experience in NHS and independent sectors. Extensive background in child health leadership, expertise in the interplay between physical and mental health issues in children with chronic medical conditions, including epilepsy. Offering therapy for children and adolescents with a range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, Functional Neurological Disorder and tic disorders. Advanced training in paediatric neuropsychology informs comprehensive cognitive assessments across skill domains to identify the strengths and weaknesses in a child's cognitive profile.
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Ferndown
- Blandford Forum
- Bournemouth
- Christchurch
- Lymington
- Poole
- Ringwood
- Romsey
- Saint Ives
- Salisbury
- Shaftesbury
- Sturminster Newton
- Wimborne
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.