Autism Counselling in Ilkley

All Things Therapy Centre Ltd
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
We work with children, young people, adults, couples, parents and families. We offer inclusive therapy to support those who hold a diagnosis of neurodiversity or behavioural/emotional difficulty. We also work with parents to discuss parenting strategies to build resilience in the household. We work with anyone from any background with a number of problems. These can include: behavioural and emotional problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, parenting, family relationships, divorce, bereavement, illness, developmental disorders, eating disorders and more.
We work with children, young people, adults, couples, parents and families. We offer inclusive therapy to support those who hold a diagnosis of neurodiversity or behavioural/emotional difficulty. We also work with parents to discuss parenting strategies to build resilience in the household. We work with anyone from any background with a number of problems. These can include: behavioural and emotional problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, parenting, family relationships, divorce, bereavement, illness, developmental disorders, eating disorders and more.
01756 639053 View 01756 639053
Katie Morris
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive professional, and lived experience of neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia etc.) and how it can impact on mental health, whether you're aware of it or questioning.
Feeling lost, constantly on edge with anxiety or like you don't fit in? Or maybe you have a pattern of struggling with relationships, and communication and not sure why? I've been there and I've helped many others who have too. This is a space where you can breathe, talk freely, be heard and understood. I bring my true self to sessions, focusing on building a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and comfortable to be fully you too. Our aim is to increase your self-esteem, awareness, and authenticity, by letting out the things holding you down - the trauma, the people or your past self.
I have extensive professional, and lived experience of neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia etc.) and how it can impact on mental health, whether you're aware of it or questioning.
Feeling lost, constantly on edge with anxiety or like you don't fit in? Or maybe you have a pattern of struggling with relationships, and communication and not sure why? I've been there and I've helped many others who have too. This is a space where you can breathe, talk freely, be heard and understood. I bring my true self to sessions, focusing on building a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and comfortable to be fully you too. Our aim is to increase your self-esteem, awareness, and authenticity, by letting out the things holding you down - the trauma, the people or your past self.
01924 943091 View 01924 943091
Sally Wambold
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I offer an online confidential, caring counselling service for individuals to help you work through emotional issues such as bereavement, relationship issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress and past experiences that are impacting you in the present. Or you may be feeling unhappy, stuck or struggling to cope with everyday life. I have a special interest in counselling & coaching for neurodiverse individuals and provide additional insight & empathy through my own lived experience of neurodiversity. I also have considerable experience of working with both cancer patients & their supporters to manage their trauma & stress.
I offer an online confidential, caring counselling service for individuals to help you work through emotional issues such as bereavement, relationship issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress and past experiences that are impacting you in the present. Or you may be feeling unhappy, stuck or struggling to cope with everyday life. I have a special interest in counselling & coaching for neurodiverse individuals and provide additional insight & empathy through my own lived experience of neurodiversity. I also have considerable experience of working with both cancer patients & their supporters to manage their trauma & stress.
01943 262039 View 01943 262039
Duncan Slater
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Ilkley LS29
I currently work with Young Adults, Teenagers and Children (8+). I like to work together collaboratively in a way that allows empowerment and feels right for you. It is through the therapeutic relationship that new understanding, greater awareness, and therapeutic growth is experienced. I provide 1 to 1 talking therapy in person and outdoor walk and talk therapy in nature. I also provide online therapy by zoom. Working online offers greater accessibility if you are very busy or have physical limitations. It also provides a more private and comfortable experience as in person therapy can sometimes feel too much.
I currently work with Young Adults, Teenagers and Children (8+). I like to work together collaboratively in a way that allows empowerment and feels right for you. It is through the therapeutic relationship that new understanding, greater awareness, and therapeutic growth is experienced. I provide 1 to 1 talking therapy in person and outdoor walk and talk therapy in nature. I also provide online therapy by zoom. Working online offers greater accessibility if you are very busy or have physical limitations. It also provides a more private and comfortable experience as in person therapy can sometimes feel too much.
01943 661903 View 01943 661903
Phil McQuillan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Ilkley LS29
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist with previous experience working in an NHS and a university setting. I work with adults and young people 18+. I work with a range of presenting issues, including issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma, but also have experience working with issues relating to relationships, bereavement, identity, self-criticality, burnout, neurodiversity/neurodivergence (assessed or self-identified), kink, bdsm and non-monogamy, and issues relating to working in the creative arts.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist with previous experience working in an NHS and a university setting. I work with adults and young people 18+. I work with a range of presenting issues, including issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma, but also have experience working with issues relating to relationships, bereavement, identity, self-criticality, burnout, neurodiversity/neurodivergence (assessed or self-identified), kink, bdsm and non-monogamy, and issues relating to working in the creative arts.
01943 661246 View 01943 661246
Dr Lisa Benn
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29
I specialise in work with ADHD, Autism and learning disability.
I integrate a range of psychological approaches and models, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, together with other third wave therapies such as ACT, CFT. I work in neuroaffirming way, tailoring assessment and therapy to the person. I currently assess adults for ADHD and will soon be offering Autism assessments.
I specialise in work with ADHD, Autism and learning disability.
I integrate a range of psychological approaches and models, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, together with other third wave therapies such as ACT, CFT. I work in neuroaffirming way, tailoring assessment and therapy to the person. I currently assess adults for ADHD and will soon be offering Autism assessments.
01943 662111 View 01943 662111
Zoe Lamming
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
4 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29
My style is warm, compassionate, inquisitive and directional. I offer short-long term therapy, REWIND technique for trauma, and also Single Session Therapy (to empower the client immediately). I work face to face, outdoor or online. I can help with anxiety/stress management, processing a painful loss, improving your relationship with self and/or others or dealing with a past trauma or current ADHD symptoms. I work with older teens, and all adults and encourage a holistic view to mental health which includes importance of sleep, diet and exercise. Prior to becoming a therapist, I held various senior roles in big business.
My style is warm, compassionate, inquisitive and directional. I offer short-long term therapy, REWIND technique for trauma, and also Single Session Therapy (to empower the client immediately). I work face to face, outdoor or online. I can help with anxiety/stress management, processing a painful loss, improving your relationship with self and/or others or dealing with a past trauma or current ADHD symptoms. I work with older teens, and all adults and encourage a holistic view to mental health which includes importance of sleep, diet and exercise. Prior to becoming a therapist, I held various senior roles in big business.
01943 661595 View 01943 661595
Shan Merchant
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Ilkley LS29
Do you feel devastated after an affair, or trapped in the hurt and mistrust that followed? I provide specialist couples counselling for partners facing the hardest challenges - betrayal, sex & intimacy that’s vanished, the same fight on repeat, or the complexities of neurodiverse or poly relationships. By the time people find me, they’ve usually tried everything else. My style is structured, direct, and designed to create change. One couple put it this way: “When all hope was lost, Shan’s help and guidance enabled us to reconnect and be stronger than we have ever been".
Do you feel devastated after an affair, or trapped in the hurt and mistrust that followed? I provide specialist couples counselling for partners facing the hardest challenges - betrayal, sex & intimacy that’s vanished, the same fight on repeat, or the complexities of neurodiverse or poly relationships. By the time people find me, they’ve usually tried everything else. My style is structured, direct, and designed to create change. One couple put it this way: “When all hope was lost, Shan’s help and guidance enabled us to reconnect and be stronger than we have ever been".
01274 019974 View 01274 019974
Dr Claudia Salt
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29
Therapies offered: I integrate approaches from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT); Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT); Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT); Therapeutic Parenting; Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and neurodivergent strategies to meet the needs and presentation of my clients.
Hello, my name is Claudia. I am an HCPC registered Senior Clinical Psychologist. I have been qualified since 2007. I work with children and young people or their parents/carers to offer: Individual evidence based psychological therapy; Work with parents & carers; Consultation with other professionals. My areas of special interest include depression, anxiety, phobia, self-esteem, OCD & work related to neurodivergence. Building warm, trusting, affirming, collaborative and empathic therapeutic relationships with the children, young people & parents/carers I work with is central to my approach.
Therapies offered: I integrate approaches from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT); Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT); Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT); Therapeutic Parenting; Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and neurodivergent strategies to meet the needs and presentation of my clients.
Hello, my name is Claudia. I am an HCPC registered Senior Clinical Psychologist. I have been qualified since 2007. I work with children and young people or their parents/carers to offer: Individual evidence based psychological therapy; Work with parents & carers; Consultation with other professionals. My areas of special interest include depression, anxiety, phobia, self-esteem, OCD & work related to neurodivergence. Building warm, trusting, affirming, collaborative and empathic therapeutic relationships with the children, young people & parents/carers I work with is central to my approach.
01943 661329 View 01943 661329
Lucy Karfopoulos
Counsellor, MBACP
Ilkley LS29
I’m Lucy (she/her), a person-centred psychotherapist. I provide counselling support for young people (12–18) and adults. I have extensive experience in supporting clients through a wide range of issues and experiences. I believe therapy should be tailored to you, so I take a collaborative and flexible approach. I work from a person-centred foundation, drawing on a variety of therapeutic methods and tools to suit your preferences and goals. I offer a space that is relaxed and supportive, where you can speak openly, understanding your emotions, behaviours and thoughts. Real change becomes possible through connection and reflection.
I’m Lucy (she/her), a person-centred psychotherapist. I provide counselling support for young people (12–18) and adults. I have extensive experience in supporting clients through a wide range of issues and experiences. I believe therapy should be tailored to you, so I take a collaborative and flexible approach. I work from a person-centred foundation, drawing on a variety of therapeutic methods and tools to suit your preferences and goals. I offer a space that is relaxed and supportive, where you can speak openly, understanding your emotions, behaviours and thoughts. Real change becomes possible through connection and reflection.
01274 041813 View 01274 041813
Christian Doherty
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29
All of us have our periods of struggle. Life has a habit of throwing things at us - stress, loss, bereavement, anxiety, relationship troubles - that can throw us off course. Relationships are tough; work and family too. But you don't have to manage it all on your own. Talking to me about your anxiety, depression, anger, stress, addictions or loss can help plot a path through life's difficult times and rediscover yourself. Working together in a calm, focused way, we can understand your unique patterns and needs, find coping strategies, and look at ways to change the things we can, and accept the things we can't.
All of us have our periods of struggle. Life has a habit of throwing things at us - stress, loss, bereavement, anxiety, relationship troubles - that can throw us off course. Relationships are tough; work and family too. But you don't have to manage it all on your own. Talking to me about your anxiety, depression, anger, stress, addictions or loss can help plot a path through life's difficult times and rediscover yourself. Working together in a calm, focused way, we can understand your unique patterns and needs, find coping strategies, and look at ways to change the things we can, and accept the things we can't.
01756 630825 View 01756 630825
Jane Lindsay
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
As a neurodivergent practitioner myself, I bring lived as well as professional experience to my understanding of neurodivergence and difference.
I work with adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck or exhausted, navigating change, or questioning who they are and what they want next. You might be experiencing anxiety, burnout or difficulties around work, relationships, identity or neurodivergence, or simply know that something no longer feels right. You don't need to arrive knowing exactly what's wrong. Together, we'll look more closely at your experiences, relationships and wider context, developing a deeper understanding of what's happening and exploring what that understanding might make possible.
As a neurodivergent practitioner myself, I bring lived as well as professional experience to my understanding of neurodivergence and difference.
I work with adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck or exhausted, navigating change, or questioning who they are and what they want next. You might be experiencing anxiety, burnout or difficulties around work, relationships, identity or neurodivergence, or simply know that something no longer feels right. You don't need to arrive knowing exactly what's wrong. Together, we'll look more closely at your experiences, relationships and wider context, developing a deeper understanding of what's happening and exploring what that understanding might make possible.
0113 519 9384 View 0113 519 9384

More Therapists Nearby

Dr Katja Osswald
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
York YO10
I also have specialist experience supporting people with neurodevelopmental difference ( autism, ADHD, tics, Tourette's syndrome).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive NHS experience as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist for autism and ADHD services. I use a range of evidence-based therapies to help you build a new relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings, and EMDR for trauma and distressing memories. I draw on a range of approaches and tailor everything to you.
I also have specialist experience supporting people with neurodevelopmental difference ( autism, ADHD, tics, Tourette's syndrome).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive NHS experience as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist for autism and ADHD services. I use a range of evidence-based therapies to help you build a new relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings, and EMDR for trauma and distressing memories. I draw on a range of approaches and tailor everything to you.
01889 223934 View 01889 223934
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individual clients and groups affected by trauma, PTSD or CPTSD (stemming from armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), neurodiverse development and function ( ASD, ADHD and/or specific learning difficulties), depression, loss, bereavement and addiction.
Experienced private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20+ years background in neuropsychology. I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. In my Trauma-informed practice, I employ evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, ERP, and DBT, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim to grow self-awareness. Offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe, and empathic environment, I have been supporting clients from across the UK, Europe and further afield.
I work with individual clients and groups affected by trauma, PTSD or CPTSD (stemming from armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), neurodiverse development and function ( ASD, ADHD and/or specific learning difficulties), depression, loss, bereavement and addiction.
Experienced private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20+ years background in neuropsychology. I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. In my Trauma-informed practice, I employ evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, ERP, and DBT, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim to grow self-awareness. Offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe, and empathic environment, I have been supporting clients from across the UK, Europe and further afield.
01663 790112 View 01663 790112
Anna Potts
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Perhaps you are: • parenting, in (peri)menopause, career or relationship change • adjusting to a diagnosis, for yourself or a neurodivergent child • younger or older • overwhelmed by global change • feeling social expectation • leaving, joining or changing perspective in a religion
Integrative Counsellors have working knowledge of several counselling approaches. I listen to you and pay close attention to what happens between us / your needs. I am inspired and influenced by the Person-Centred Approach: • genuine contact between counsellor and client • clients feel understanding and empathy • unwavering acceptance • I am 'real', present
Perhaps you are: • parenting, in (peri)menopause, career or relationship change • adjusting to a diagnosis, for yourself or a neurodivergent child • younger or older • overwhelmed by global change • feeling social expectation • leaving, joining or changing perspective in a religion
Integrative Counsellors have working knowledge of several counselling approaches. I listen to you and pay close attention to what happens between us / your needs. I am inspired and influenced by the Person-Centred Approach: • genuine contact between counsellor and client • clients feel understanding and empathy • unwavering acceptance • I am 'real', present
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Joanne Sankey
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Leeds LS16
I also work with young adults and neurodivergent adults.
Every young person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit their needs. I integrate creative methods like art and play therapy alongside traditional talking therapy. As a neurodivergent therapist, I adapt my work to support neurodivergent clients effectively. I also have specialist training in eating disorders and self-harm.
I also work with young adults and neurodivergent adults.
Every young person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit their needs. I integrate creative methods like art and play therapy alongside traditional talking therapy. As a neurodivergent therapist, I adapt my work to support neurodivergent clients effectively. I also have specialist training in eating disorders and self-harm.
0113 519 5465 View 0113 519 5465
Amber A Redish
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I regularly support people diagnosed, undiagnosed or self ID with ASD/Asperger’s/ADHD.
Since graduating, as a Person-Centred counsellor in 2005, I have been committed to creating safe spaces for people to heal. As well as close, empathic listening I offer EMDR and IFS or ‘parts’ work. These methods treat the symptoms of trauma to reduce suffering, improve daily functioning and increase self compassion, clarity, creativity and confidence.
I regularly support people diagnosed, undiagnosed or self ID with ASD/Asperger’s/ADHD.
Since graduating, as a Person-Centred counsellor in 2005, I have been committed to creating safe spaces for people to heal. As well as close, empathic listening I offer EMDR and IFS or ‘parts’ work. These methods treat the symptoms of trauma to reduce suffering, improve daily functioning and increase self compassion, clarity, creativity and confidence.
01273 944014 View 01273 944014
Creative 4 You
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Hi, I'm Katie, one of the three founders of Creative 4 You. I am an art therapist practicing in the Leeds and Wakefield area. Art Therapy does not need anyone to be "good" at art, or knowledgeable about art. That's my job, I can guide you in how to use materials, or support you in achieving the "thing" that you want to produce, I will also gently nudge you to push yourself a little bit. Through the art making process, you can learn coping strategies tailored to you and your nervous system responses. You can learn to trust yourself and your ability to make decisions, helping to build self esteem.
Hi, I'm Katie, one of the three founders of Creative 4 You. I am an art therapist practicing in the Leeds and Wakefield area. Art Therapy does not need anyone to be "good" at art, or knowledgeable about art. That's my job, I can guide you in how to use materials, or support you in achieving the "thing" that you want to produce, I will also gently nudge you to push yourself a little bit. Through the art making process, you can learn coping strategies tailored to you and your nervous system responses. You can learn to trust yourself and your ability to make decisions, helping to build self esteem.
0113 519 7028 View 0113 519 7028
Wolds Play Therapy
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Serves Area
With a background in SEND Education and as a parent of two autistic children, I understand that the process needs to be as stress-free as possible.
Play Therapy supports children with challenging behaviour, mental health difficulties, or adverse experiences. It doesn’t rely on words and the children do not need emotional literacy to express or process their experiences and begin to move forward. It goes at their own pace and the children move past difficult experiences without being overwhelmed.
With a background in SEND Education and as a parent of two autistic children, I understand that the process needs to be as stress-free as possible.
Play Therapy supports children with challenging behaviour, mental health difficulties, or adverse experiences. It doesn’t rely on words and the children do not need emotional literacy to express or process their experiences and begin to move forward. It goes at their own pace and the children move past difficult experiences without being overwhelmed.
01759 486304 View 01759 486304
Irina Yelland
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
York YO30
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, young people and adults with ASD and ADHD, as well as with a wide range of emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties.
Do you or your child need an ADHD or ASD assessment and support? Are you feeling worried, anxious or stressed? Have you had past experiences that are affecting your life now? Have you lost joy in life and would like to find happiness again? I would like to help you.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, young people and adults with ASD and ADHD, as well as with a wide range of emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties.
Do you or your child need an ADHD or ASD assessment and support? Are you feeling worried, anxious or stressed? Have you had past experiences that are affecting your life now? Have you lost joy in life and would like to find happiness again? I would like to help you.
01759 487776 View 01759 487776
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.