Autism Counselling in North London, London

Photo of LORNA Aher, MBACP, Counsellor
LORNA Aher
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
North London, London N17
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 Jessie Gough - Neurodiverse Online, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Neurodiverse Online
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N3
We use CBT, psychoeducation, EMDR, ADHD coaching and ACT or third wave CBT to help people to learn about Autism, ADHD, Tics and other neurodevelopmental conditions and to manage any concurrent difficulties.
At Neurodiverse Online, I, Dr Jessie Gough, and my colleagues are a small team of specialist Clinical Psychologists who provide assessment and therapy for ADHD, Autism / ASD, Tics / Tourette's, Dyslexia and related mental health difficulties such as anxiety and low mood. We have a multidisciplinary team including Speech and Language Therapists and a Specialist Teacher so that our reports and advice can be used to support applications for reasonable adjustments and EHCPs at school, university and in the workplace.
We use CBT, psychoeducation, EMDR, ADHD coaching and ACT or third wave CBT to help people to learn about Autism, ADHD, Tics and other neurodevelopmental conditions and to manage any concurrent difficulties.
At Neurodiverse Online, I, Dr Jessie Gough, and my colleagues are a small team of specialist Clinical Psychologists who provide assessment and therapy for ADHD, Autism / ASD, Tics / Tourette's, Dyslexia and related mental health difficulties such as anxiety and low mood. We have a multidisciplinary team including Speech and Language Therapists and a Specialist Teacher so that our reports and advice can be used to support applications for reasonable adjustments and EHCPs at school, university and in the workplace.
020 4538 5169 View 020 4538 5169
Photo of Rosemary Gomes, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rosemary Gomes
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N16
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 Victoria Richards, MBACP, Counsellor
Victoria Richards
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
North London, London N7  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with carers and adults with autism, on a range of topics.
Do you ever feel that life has become too overwhelming or that everyday tasks are a struggle? Is something from your past unresolved and affecting your life today? I believe we are all experts in our own lives and my role is to facilitate the exploration of those feelings with you together. I will support you in working towards any realistic goals that you would like to achieve. I understand that you may not know what support you need, what changes you want to happen or why you are feeling the way you do, but I am experienced to help you answer some of these questions so your life can begin to feel the way you would like it to.
I have extensive experience working with carers and adults with autism, on a range of topics.
Do you ever feel that life has become too overwhelming or that everyday tasks are a struggle? Is something from your past unresolved and affecting your life today? I believe we are all experts in our own lives and my role is to facilitate the exploration of those feelings with you together. I will support you in working towards any realistic goals that you would like to achieve. I understand that you may not know what support you need, what changes you want to happen or why you are feeling the way you do, but I am experienced to help you answer some of these questions so your life can begin to feel the way you would like it to.
020 3893 2883 View 020 3893 2883
Photo of Raquel Navarro Martinez, MSc
Raquel Navarro Martinez
MSc
Verified Verified
North London, London N5
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 Steven Carnaby - Carnaby Autism Support, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Carnaby Autism Support
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N22
At Carnaby Autism Support our skilled and experienced clinician’s offer comprehensive autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults. We remain committed to clinical excellence and quality whilst aiming to provide a service that is neurodiversity affirming. We adhere to all National Institute of Clinical Excellent (NICE) guidelines. We work in ways that aim to nurture positive autistic identity as a central goal. For more information see our website (www.carnabyautismsupport.co.uk)
At Carnaby Autism Support our skilled and experienced clinician’s offer comprehensive autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults. We remain committed to clinical excellence and quality whilst aiming to provide a service that is neurodiversity affirming. We adhere to all National Institute of Clinical Excellent (NICE) guidelines. We work in ways that aim to nurture positive autistic identity as a central goal. For more information see our website (www.carnabyautismsupport.co.uk)
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Photo of Luisa Diaz, MBACP, Counsellor
Luisa Diaz
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
North London, London N11
I have undertaken additional training and I am listed on the National Autistic Society's Autism Service Directory.
Are you struggling to cope? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions due to recent losses and changes or maybe from the past? Together we can navigate a way through your challenges, from within a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. Working at a pace that’s right for you, we will explore your current difficulties and uncover their relationship to past experiences. My aim is to help you to gain a deeper understanding of your self, your relationships and to strengthen your inner resources, so that you can live your life more fully.
I have undertaken additional training and I am listed on the National Autistic Society's Autism Service Directory.
Are you struggling to cope? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions due to recent losses and changes or maybe from the past? Together we can navigate a way through your challenges, from within a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. Working at a pace that’s right for you, we will explore your current difficulties and uncover their relationship to past experiences. My aim is to help you to gain a deeper understanding of your self, your relationships and to strengthen your inner resources, so that you can live your life more fully.
020 3960 5333 View 020 3960 5333
Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
North London, London N6
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
020 3962 0179 View 020 3962 0179
Photo of Nina Jellinek, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nina Jellinek
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
North London, London N1
Accredited Counsellor for adults, young people, and couples. Counselling Supervisor. LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse friendly (with lived and professional experience of both, including experience of autism, PDA profile, ADHD, OCD). I am experienced in working with clients with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, support for neurodiversity, support re sexuality or identity, trauma, bereavement, childhood issues, domestic violence. I am a Systemic Counsellor, which means I believe in understanding your inner beliefs but also your wider context. I offer a safe space to explore feelings and to look at coping strategies.
Accredited Counsellor for adults, young people, and couples. Counselling Supervisor. LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse friendly (with lived and professional experience of both, including experience of autism, PDA profile, ADHD, OCD). I am experienced in working with clients with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, support for neurodiversity, support re sexuality or identity, trauma, bereavement, childhood issues, domestic violence. I am a Systemic Counsellor, which means I believe in understanding your inner beliefs but also your wider context. I offer a safe space to explore feelings and to look at coping strategies.
01252 986156 View 01252 986156
Photo of Jasmin Khan, BACP, Counsellor
Jasmin Khan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North London, London N16
I specialise in ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, as well as culture & identity, grief and bereavement, work issues, and relationships.
I offer integrative therapy, neurodivergence support and cultural sensitivity. I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. That can look like creating change when something feels amiss; uncovering what is underneath when you are feeling stuck or locked into repetitive patterns; exploration and reflection for when you are feeling confused or want to make sense of your experiences; and working with possibilities and finding new motivation, for when you want to focus on growth and strengths. I like to equip you with agency over your own development and share context as to how therapy works.
I specialise in ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, as well as culture & identity, grief and bereavement, work issues, and relationships.
I offer integrative therapy, neurodivergence support and cultural sensitivity. I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. That can look like creating change when something feels amiss; uncovering what is underneath when you are feeling stuck or locked into repetitive patterns; exploration and reflection for when you are feeling confused or want to make sense of your experiences; and working with possibilities and finding new motivation, for when you want to focus on growth and strengths. I like to equip you with agency over your own development and share context as to how therapy works.
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Photo of Dr Reena Devi Ali, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Reena Devi Ali
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N4
Trauma, anxiety, autism, substance use are my key areas of interest.
Hi, my name is Reena and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have significant experience helping people who are experiencing emotional distress including but not limited to low mood, anxiety, trauma and more. I offer evidence based, psychological therapy to individuals. I am an integrative psychologist, drawing on specialist interventions. I also offer therapeutic coaching and consultations. In our sessions we work collaboratively to help make sense of your distress and offer treatment that is tailored to your needs. I have worked in the NHS for almost 15years in a variety of roles and settings including CAMHS
Trauma, anxiety, autism, substance use are my key areas of interest.
Hi, my name is Reena and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have significant experience helping people who are experiencing emotional distress including but not limited to low mood, anxiety, trauma and more. I offer evidence based, psychological therapy to individuals. I am an integrative psychologist, drawing on specialist interventions. I also offer therapeutic coaching and consultations. In our sessions we work collaboratively to help make sense of your distress and offer treatment that is tailored to your needs. I have worked in the NHS for almost 15years in a variety of roles and settings including CAMHS
01582 377620 View 01582 377620
Photo of Marina Prevezer, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Marina Prevezer
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
North London, London N12
I work in person and online with adolescents and adults. I offer a safe and confidential space to explore emotional difficulties and current situations. I listen without judgement, helping you to make your own decisions, to develop self-reliance, resilience, self-awareness and confidence to effect change. I have significant experience in working with clients who have or think that they have Autism as well as additional educational needs in general.
I work in person and online with adolescents and adults. I offer a safe and confidential space to explore emotional difficulties and current situations. I listen without judgement, helping you to make your own decisions, to develop self-reliance, resilience, self-awareness and confidence to effect change. I have significant experience in working with clients who have or think that they have Autism as well as additional educational needs in general.
07599 200456 View 07599 200456
Photo of Dror Cohen, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dror Cohen
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N6
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, as well as parental counselling. I am also available for clinical supervision for psychologists and psychotherapists. I currently work as a lead psychologist for an adult health psychology service in a NHS teaching hospital. In this role I offer specialised therapy to adults and young adults with a range of psychological difficulties that include depression, anxiety, impulsivity, psycho sexual difficulties, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, as well as parental counselling. I am also available for clinical supervision for psychologists and psychotherapists. I currently work as a lead psychologist for an adult health psychology service in a NHS teaching hospital. In this role I offer specialised therapy to adults and young adults with a range of psychological difficulties that include depression, anxiety, impulsivity, psycho sexual difficulties, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder.
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Photo of Jo Rosenberg, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jo Rosenberg
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N3
I work with children, adolescents, families, younger and older adults with a range of issues including low mood/ depression, anxiety, OCD, family problems, relationship issues, work related problems, families with autism and ADHD, and stress.
I offer therapy to those who may be experiencing emotional difficulties and who need some time and space to work through these challenges in order to find a way forward. I work with parents, families, adolescents, children and young adults. My experience includes most recently working at Barnet CAMHS, together with adult NHS settings, schools and organisations. My work is informed through the use of CBT, psychodynamic and person-centred therapy. Working collaboratively, I offer a warm, empathic approach in order to develop goals and strategies that may be most beneficial and effective to suit your needs.
I work with children, adolescents, families, younger and older adults with a range of issues including low mood/ depression, anxiety, OCD, family problems, relationship issues, work related problems, families with autism and ADHD, and stress.
I offer therapy to those who may be experiencing emotional difficulties and who need some time and space to work through these challenges in order to find a way forward. I work with parents, families, adolescents, children and young adults. My experience includes most recently working at Barnet CAMHS, together with adult NHS settings, schools and organisations. My work is informed through the use of CBT, psychodynamic and person-centred therapy. Working collaboratively, I offer a warm, empathic approach in order to develop goals and strategies that may be most beneficial and effective to suit your needs.
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Photo of Emma Williams, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
North London, London N1
My areas of specialist professional interest are: ADHD, Autism and AuDHD.
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 areas of specialist professional interest are: ADHD, Autism and AuDHD.
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 Danielle Baillieu, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Danielle Baillieu
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N3
While I work mainly in an existential and phenomenological way I also use a range of techniques, including CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, FLASH and Brainspotting. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults, children, couples and families where we can work on understanding the situation you are in and how to make changes in your life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression or coping with bereavement, therapy will be tailor-made for your situation. I work with neurotypical and neurodiverse clients struggling with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, self-harm or bullying.
While I work mainly in an existential and phenomenological way I also use a range of techniques, including CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, FLASH and Brainspotting. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults, children, couples and families where we can work on understanding the situation you are in and how to make changes in your life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression or coping with bereavement, therapy will be tailor-made for your situation. I work with neurotypical and neurodiverse clients struggling with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, self-harm or bullying.
07903 936379 View 07903 936379
Photo of Dr Sarah Callman, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sarah Callman
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N3
Hi! I’m Sarah and I'm a Counselling Psychologist. I have over 10 years of clinical experience. I work in an NHS Community Mental Health Team for Kensington and Chelsea. I am experienced working with adults and adolescents including those with neurodevelopmental disorders: autism and ADHD. The most essential ingredient to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship. My aim is to provide a welcoming and compassionate space built on trust, respect and understanding. During the assessment process we would identify your therapy goals and use this as a guide for formulating a treatment plan to help you make a positive difference.
Hi! I’m Sarah and I'm a Counselling Psychologist. I have over 10 years of clinical experience. I work in an NHS Community Mental Health Team for Kensington and Chelsea. I am experienced working with adults and adolescents including those with neurodevelopmental disorders: autism and ADHD. The most essential ingredient to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship. My aim is to provide a welcoming and compassionate space built on trust, respect and understanding. During the assessment process we would identify your therapy goals and use this as a guide for formulating a treatment plan to help you make a positive difference.
020 3974 7473 View 020 3974 7473
Photo of Shabnam Yasmin, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Shabnam Yasmin
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
North London, London N8
I work with clients presenting with complex issues such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Autism, BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), Bereavement, and Loss.
I’m a UKCP-Registered Neurodiverse Psychotherapist trained in Transactional Analysis which has its roots in Psychodynamic and Humanistic psychotherapy, and share similarities with Schema therapy. Transactional Analysis (TA) examines an individual's personality and how this has been shaped by experiences. This means I’m able to help clients understand the root of their issues and therefore make lasting changes.
I work with clients presenting with complex issues such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Autism, BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), Bereavement, and Loss.
I’m a UKCP-Registered Neurodiverse Psychotherapist trained in Transactional Analysis which has its roots in Psychodynamic and Humanistic psychotherapy, and share similarities with Schema therapy. Transactional Analysis (TA) examines an individual's personality and how this has been shaped by experiences. This means I’m able to help clients understand the root of their issues and therefore make lasting changes.
020 3949 8810 View 020 3949 8810
Photo of Dr Sophie Fitzgerald, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sophie Fitzgerald
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
North London, London N2
​ I also also provide assessments, recommendations and treatments for individuals with autism.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist, registered with The Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). I have worked in both community and inpatient settings across different populations including older adults, adults including those with an eating disorder, children and adolescent, people with learning disabilities and people following a stroke or traumatic brain injury. ​I have gained experience of working with a range of different types of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy and DBT.
​ I also also provide assessments, recommendations and treatments for individuals with autism.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist, registered with The Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). I have worked in both community and inpatient settings across different populations including older adults, adults including those with an eating disorder, children and adolescent, people with learning disabilities and people following a stroke or traumatic brain injury. ​I have gained experience of working with a range of different types of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy and DBT.
01582 377903 View 01582 377903
Photo of Dr Lucy Murray, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Lucy Murray
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North London, London N13
I offer psychological therapy to people on their path to becoming pregnant, pregnancy and the first few years of parenthood. In my role as an NHS Neonatal Clinical Psychologist, I have the privilege of supporting parents whose babies have been born prematurely. I have helped my clients with difficulties including complex fertility journeys, worries during pregnancy, birth trauma, loss or bereavement, concerns about attachment and bonding and adjustment to having a child with longer-term health needs. I support parental mental health needs including anxiety, depression, Autism and ADHD. I look forward to speaking to you.
I offer psychological therapy to people on their path to becoming pregnant, pregnancy and the first few years of parenthood. In my role as an NHS Neonatal Clinical Psychologist, I have the privilege of supporting parents whose babies have been born prematurely. I have helped my clients with difficulties including complex fertility journeys, worries during pregnancy, birth trauma, loss or bereavement, concerns about attachment and bonding and adjustment to having a child with longer-term health needs. I support parental mental health needs including anxiety, depression, Autism and ADHD. I look forward to speaking to you.
0114 697 1116 View 0114 697 1116
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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.