Autism Counselling in East London, London

Photo of Jasmin Khan, Counsellor, BACP
Jasmin Khan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E17
I have specialised training and bring lived experience when working with ADHD, autism and neurodiversity, culture and identity, relationships and couples, grief, and work-related stress.
I offer an integrative approach. That means I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. We aim for a collaborative relationship, and the emphasis is always on what you find helpful. You may want to create change when things don’t feel right, uncover what is underneath when you feel stuck, or make sense of your experiences. We can also focus on your strengths and on finding new motivation. I work holistically and balance relational, creative practices with change-orientation and structure. I apply trauma-sensitive, evidence-based and neuroscientifically supported approaches for a broad range of issues.
I have specialised training and bring lived experience when working with ADHD, autism and neurodiversity, culture and identity, relationships and couples, grief, and work-related stress.
I offer an integrative approach. That means I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. We aim for a collaborative relationship, and the emphasis is always on what you find helpful. You may want to create change when things don’t feel right, uncover what is underneath when you feel stuck, or make sense of your experiences. We can also focus on your strengths and on finding new motivation. I work holistically and balance relational, creative practices with change-orientation and structure. I apply trauma-sensitive, evidence-based and neuroscientifically supported approaches for a broad range of issues.
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Photo of Rowan Reiss - Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E18
I provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, utilising gold standard assessment tools, as recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in a national specialist CAMHS trauma service. My work within this team, specialist inpatient and outpatient CAMHS, as well as in adult mental health services, has given me experience in supporting adults, children, and young people with severe and complex mental health difficulties. Through my training I have developed high-level knowledge of the theory and practice of both CBT including CFT, ACT, DBT and trauma-focussed CBT, and systemic approaches. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, utilising gold standard assessment tools, as recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in a national specialist CAMHS trauma service. My work within this team, specialist inpatient and outpatient CAMHS, as well as in adult mental health services, has given me experience in supporting adults, children, and young people with severe and complex mental health difficulties. Through my training I have developed high-level knowledge of the theory and practice of both CBT including CFT, ACT, DBT and trauma-focussed CBT, and systemic approaches. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
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Photo of San Wong, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
San Wong
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E14
I am a Senior Clinical Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, expert in ADHD and autism clients for 25 years.
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S
I am a Senior Clinical Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, expert in ADHD and autism clients for 25 years.
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S
020 8138 8672 View 020 8138 8672
Photo of Camilla Ferraro, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Camilla Ferraro
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I support individuals navigating self-discovery around neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, and exploration of gender identity and sexuality too.
Do you need help untangling things? Maybe you are feeling a little lost, stuck or misunderstood? Or perhaps you are feeling low or anxious or even full of rage? Maybe you are struggling with identity, sense of self or your relationships? You might have even tried therapy before, but something wasn’t quite right? Or perhaps you are struggling with your health, eating or body image and would like an easier relationship with food, eating and your body? Then I may be able to help.
I support individuals navigating self-discovery around neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, and exploration of gender identity and sexuality too.
Do you need help untangling things? Maybe you are feeling a little lost, stuck or misunderstood? Or perhaps you are feeling low or anxious or even full of rage? Maybe you are struggling with identity, sense of self or your relationships? You might have even tried therapy before, but something wasn’t quite right? Or perhaps you are struggling with your health, eating or body image and would like an easier relationship with food, eating and your body? Then I may be able to help.
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Photo of Rosemary Gomes, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Rosemary Gomes
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
020 3962 1928 View 020 3962 1928
Photo of Harriet Sheppard, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Harriet Sheppard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
I'm a BACP registered therapist, offering sessions online. I draw on psychodynamic theory in my practice. This means we might spend time discussing present-day concerns, as well as events or relationships from your earlier life. We'll explore how your past may have influenced you, identifying how you can move forward.
While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
I'm a BACP registered therapist, offering sessions online. I draw on psychodynamic theory in my practice. This means we might spend time discussing present-day concerns, as well as events or relationships from your earlier life. We'll explore how your past may have influenced you, identifying how you can move forward.
020 3835 4754 View 020 3835 4754
Photo of LORNA Aher, Counsellor, MBACP
LORNA Aher
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I specialise in working with people with autism and people who care for and support someone who has autism.
As a person-centred counsellor based in north London, I believe that talking can help us feel less isolated with our problems and thoughts.    Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to family and friends; you may not wish to cause worry or distress or you may not want their advice and opinion. I provide an understanding ,  non-judgemental and safe space where you will be heard and where you can bring issues and concerns that may be preventing you from being who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I offer an initial assessment, which will enable us to see if we connect and whether you feel comfortable within the counsel
I specialise in working with people with autism and people who care for and support someone who has autism.
As a person-centred counsellor based in north London, I believe that talking can help us feel less isolated with our problems and thoughts.    Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to family and friends; you may not wish to cause worry or distress or you may not want their advice and opinion. I provide an understanding ,  non-judgemental and safe space where you will be heard and where you can bring issues and concerns that may be preventing you from being who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I offer an initial assessment, which will enable us to see if we connect and whether you feel comfortable within the counsel
020 8106 2102 View 020 8106 2102
Photo of Trish Buckner, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Trish Buckner
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
ADHD, autism and neurodiversity are all areas I work with, helping clients to understand the real them without the need for masking.
Often we overlook how much our lives are forever changing, maybe seeing ourselves as caterpillars that turn into butterflies once you become an adult. Whilst this may be how it feels for some, others may experience feeling more like a tree. They start life as a sapling being shaped by their nature and surroundings similar to humans, but as the seasons change and as they mature the changes happen frequently, bad weather can result in differences year on year, and each season brings differences too. Now thinking about your life, have you experienced something similar such as leaving school, life feeling simple with clear goals.
ADHD, autism and neurodiversity are all areas I work with, helping clients to understand the real them without the need for masking.
Often we overlook how much our lives are forever changing, maybe seeing ourselves as caterpillars that turn into butterflies once you become an adult. Whilst this may be how it feels for some, others may experience feeling more like a tree. They start life as a sapling being shaped by their nature and surroundings similar to humans, but as the seasons change and as they mature the changes happen frequently, bad weather can result in differences year on year, and each season brings differences too. Now thinking about your life, have you experienced something similar such as leaving school, life feeling simple with clear goals.
020 4572 5123 View 020 4572 5123
Photo of Eve Janes, Counsellor, MBACP
Eve Janes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also specialise in neurodivergence which includes; ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, epilepsy, bipolar, OCD, tourette's, epilepsy, anxiety and depression amongst others.
Hello and welcome! My name is Eve, I am a neurodivergent support specialist & person-centred therapist. As a therapist, I always aim to be a compassionate facilitator, listening and acknowledging the client's experience without shifting the conversation in another direction, and by being open to experience; being trusting and trustworthy, being curious, creative, and compassionate. I feel this is vital in helping clients feel accepted and better understand their feelings. This approach can help clients reconnect with their inner values and sense of self-worth by enabling them to find their way to move forward and progress.
I also specialise in neurodivergence which includes; ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, epilepsy, bipolar, OCD, tourette's, epilepsy, anxiety and depression amongst others.
Hello and welcome! My name is Eve, I am a neurodivergent support specialist & person-centred therapist. As a therapist, I always aim to be a compassionate facilitator, listening and acknowledging the client's experience without shifting the conversation in another direction, and by being open to experience; being trusting and trustworthy, being curious, creative, and compassionate. I feel this is vital in helping clients feel accepted and better understand their feelings. This approach can help clients reconnect with their inner values and sense of self-worth by enabling them to find their way to move forward and progress.
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Photo of Polly Miskiewicz, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Polly Miskiewicz
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in supporting neurodivergent clients exploring ADHD or autism, whether self-diagnosed or formally diagnosed.
If you feel lost, stuck, or disconnected -perhaps from your identity, path, or sense of self - I provide a safe and creative space to explore and rediscover who you are. You may be navigating growth, managing change, or healing past wounds. You might be seeking clarity, self-understanding, or tools to live more authentically. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, meet your unique needs, and help you build a life that feels grounded, balanced, and truly your own-one that honours your authentic self. I work with women and queer individuals facing challenges re: ADHD, ASD, masking, identity, burnout, post-natal depression or trauma.
I specialise in supporting neurodivergent clients exploring ADHD or autism, whether self-diagnosed or formally diagnosed.
If you feel lost, stuck, or disconnected -perhaps from your identity, path, or sense of self - I provide a safe and creative space to explore and rediscover who you are. You may be navigating growth, managing change, or healing past wounds. You might be seeking clarity, self-understanding, or tools to live more authentically. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, meet your unique needs, and help you build a life that feels grounded, balanced, and truly your own-one that honours your authentic self. I work with women and queer individuals facing challenges re: ADHD, ASD, masking, identity, burnout, post-natal depression or trauma.
020 4538 0249 View 020 4538 0249
Photo of Raquel Navarro Martinez, MSc
Raquel Navarro Martinez
MSc
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 Leonora Eddolls, Counsellor, MBACP
Leonora Eddolls
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
   As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.
I am a specialist in Neurodivergence. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I have experience of complex Mental Health problems and Personality Disorder. I also offer training and workplace coaching for Neurodivergent individuals.
   As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.
I am a specialist in Neurodivergence. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I have experience of complex Mental Health problems and Personality Disorder. I also offer training and workplace coaching for Neurodivergent individuals.
01572 494640 View 01572 494640
Photo of Catherine Perry, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Catherine Perry
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I recently completed the National Autism Trainer programme & support other clinicians & guide teams in providing neuro-affirming & nuero-inclusive therapy.
I am so glad you found your way here! My name is Cath & ​I am a neurodivergent therapist specialising in nuero-affirming & neuro-inclusive eating disorder recovery & body image healing. I also have lived experience recovering from my own eating disorder many moons ago & as I am also an embodied yoga & movement teacher & I use a creative & embodied approach as the vessel to facilitate a safe and brave space for people's healing journeys! ​ Whether it is your first time reaching out for support, or you have tried therapy before but have struggled to make changes, I will work with you to find your own unique path to healing.
I recently completed the National Autism Trainer programme & support other clinicians & guide teams in providing neuro-affirming & nuero-inclusive therapy.
I am so glad you found your way here! My name is Cath & ​I am a neurodivergent therapist specialising in nuero-affirming & neuro-inclusive eating disorder recovery & body image healing. I also have lived experience recovering from my own eating disorder many moons ago & as I am also an embodied yoga & movement teacher & I use a creative & embodied approach as the vessel to facilitate a safe and brave space for people's healing journeys! ​ Whether it is your first time reaching out for support, or you have tried therapy before but have struggled to make changes, I will work with you to find your own unique path to healing.
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Photo of Dr Jessie Gough - Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability.
Therapy/post-diagnostic support: Using CBT and psychoeducation, we help people learn about ASD, anxiety and related differences. We bring warmth and humour to sessions, and enjoy making assessment, diagnosis and ongoing support a relaxing and positive experience. At Neurodiverseonline, my colleagues also offer EMDR, Narrative and ACT or third wave CBT.
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability.
Therapy/post-diagnostic support: Using CBT and psychoeducation, we help people learn about ASD, anxiety and related differences. We bring warmth and humour to sessions, and enjoy making assessment, diagnosis and ongoing support a relaxing and positive experience. At Neurodiverseonline, my colleagues also offer EMDR, Narrative and ACT or third wave CBT.
0117 463 0477 View 0117 463 0477
Photo of Tara Allen, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Tara Allen
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
About me: I am an experienced neurodivergent therapist, specialising in working with autism and ADHD.
Are you AuDHD and feel you might benefit from cost-effective, group support? I am running a new in-person wellbeing and support group specifically for people who are both autistic and have ADHD (both diagnosed and self-diagnosed welcome), beginning in April 2025. Based in central Hanover, and with a maximum of 8 participants, this semi-structured course will allow participants to talk freely about experiences around a particular topic each week (eg. RSD, masking, etc), meet other AuDHDers, and take away tools and strategies. Each session costs £25, and lasts for 1.5 hours.
About me: I am an experienced neurodivergent therapist, specialising in working with autism and ADHD.
Are you AuDHD and feel you might benefit from cost-effective, group support? I am running a new in-person wellbeing and support group specifically for people who are both autistic and have ADHD (both diagnosed and self-diagnosed welcome), beginning in April 2025. Based in central Hanover, and with a maximum of 8 participants, this semi-structured course will allow participants to talk freely about experiences around a particular topic each week (eg. RSD, masking, etc), meet other AuDHDers, and take away tools and strategies. Each session costs £25, and lasts for 1.5 hours.
01273 110690 View 01273 110690
Photo of Marta Sikora, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Marta Sikora
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Many of my clients navigate the intersection of autism, ADHD, and trauma, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
In therapy, we explore how your past experiences impact your current thinking patterns, emotional states, and behaviors, including the effects of trauma on your body and mind. By developing practical emotional regulation strategies, you can then start working toward improving resilience, enhancing self-acceptance, and building stronger connections.
Many of my clients navigate the intersection of autism, ADHD, and trauma, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
In therapy, we explore how your past experiences impact your current thinking patterns, emotional states, and behaviors, including the effects of trauma on your body and mind. By developing practical emotional regulation strategies, you can then start working toward improving resilience, enhancing self-acceptance, and building stronger connections.
01463 211991 View 01463 211991
Photo of Dr Karla Headon, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Karla Headon
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with all adults with various mental health challenges, and also have highly specialist experience working with neurodevelopmental conditions including Autism and ADHD.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped in cycles of self-criticism, anxiety, or burnout? You may be struggling to make sense of past trauma and how it shapes the challenges you face today. Perhaps you’re unsure whether therapy can help or don’t know where to start. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work through your challenges together. As a skilled psychologist I offer guidance and compassion, equipping you with the skills and insight to improve your mental well-being and overall quality of life.
I work with all adults with various mental health challenges, and also have highly specialist experience working with neurodevelopmental conditions including Autism and ADHD.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped in cycles of self-criticism, anxiety, or burnout? You may be struggling to make sense of past trauma and how it shapes the challenges you face today. Perhaps you’re unsure whether therapy can help or don’t know where to start. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work through your challenges together. As a skilled psychologist I offer guidance and compassion, equipping you with the skills and insight to improve your mental well-being and overall quality of life.
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Photo of Emma Williams, Counsellor, MBACP
Emma Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My specialist interests are: ADHD, Autism and AuDHD Alcohol and Substance use disorder Sexual abuse.
We are all influenced by the people in our lives and the experiences we have had both past and present, all of which serve to shape and define us. Sometimes we need help in understanding how the culmination of these factors can get in the way of being able to live life fully and with ease. Maybe you're looking for relief from the pain of anxiety or depression. You could be struggling with life changes or loss. You may want a better relationship with yourself and/or those closest to you. I offer a non-judgemental space in which I can help you to explore your feelings, beliefs and patterns of behaviour.
My specialist interests are: ADHD, Autism and AuDHD Alcohol and Substance use disorder Sexual abuse.
We are all influenced by the people in our lives and the experiences we have had both past and present, all of which serve to shape and define us. Sometimes we need help in understanding how the culmination of these factors can get in the way of being able to live life fully and with ease. Maybe you're looking for relief from the pain of anxiety or depression. You could be struggling with life changes or loss. You may want a better relationship with yourself and/or those closest to you. I offer a non-judgemental space in which I can help you to explore your feelings, beliefs and patterns of behaviour.
020 3984 8318 View 020 3984 8318
Photo of Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Nomhlekhabo Martha Shongwe, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Nomhlekhabo Martha Shongwe
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
East London, London E3
Are you struggling with your child's behavior? do you find it challenging to stand firm against physical or verbal violence due to a lack of understanding of Autism, mental health, or other factors such cultural or religious belief? Additionally, are you struggling with your parenting style.
I offer intervention for families which include NVR for parents and 1:1 Emotional understanding for the child/young person. NVR is a therapeutic approach, which has been specifically developed for responding effectively to aggressive, violent, self-destructive, and controlling behavior in children, adolescents and young adult.
Are you struggling with your child's behavior? do you find it challenging to stand firm against physical or verbal violence due to a lack of understanding of Autism, mental health, or other factors such cultural or religious belief? Additionally, are you struggling with your parenting style.
I offer intervention for families which include NVR for parents and 1:1 Emotional understanding for the child/young person. NVR is a therapeutic approach, which has been specifically developed for responding effectively to aggressive, violent, self-destructive, and controlling behavior in children, adolescents and young adult.
020 4572 0557 View 020 4572 0557
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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.