Autism Counselling in Manchester
I am an experienced senior clinical psychologist who is able to work with any adults (16+), but specialises in autism (diagnosis and post-diagnostic support), ADHD, learning disabilities and trauma.
I work with any adults, but specialise in working with adults with neurodiversity, in particular autism, ADHD and/or learning disabilities. I also specialise in trauma. Adjustments to therapy/assessments will always be made to take into consideration your needs. As a clinical psychologist I will always begin with a thorough assessment and formulation.
I am an experienced senior clinical psychologist who is able to work with any adults (16+), but specialises in autism (diagnosis and post-diagnostic support), ADHD, learning disabilities and trauma.
I work with any adults, but specialise in working with adults with neurodiversity, in particular autism, ADHD and/or learning disabilities. I also specialise in trauma. Adjustments to therapy/assessments will always be made to take into consideration your needs. As a clinical psychologist I will always begin with a thorough assessment and formulation.
Training - Aspire Autism Training.
I believe in the power of growth and self-discovery. My approach to counselling isn’t just about coping day to day, it’s about helping you understand yourself on a deeper level, so you can move forward with clarity and a sense of your self worth.
You might be feeling anxious, burnt out, or disconnected from others. Maybe social situations feel overwhelming, or you struggle to express yourself and be truly seen. Perhaps work is draining your energy, leaving you exhausted and unfulfilled. Or maybe you don’t quite know why you feel stuck, you just know something needs to change.
Training - Aspire Autism Training.
I believe in the power of growth and self-discovery. My approach to counselling isn’t just about coping day to day, it’s about helping you understand yourself on a deeper level, so you can move forward with clarity and a sense of your self worth.
You might be feeling anxious, burnt out, or disconnected from others. Maybe social situations feel overwhelming, or you struggle to express yourself and be truly seen. Perhaps work is draining your energy, leaving you exhausted and unfulfilled. Or maybe you don’t quite know why you feel stuck, you just know something needs to change.
I specialize in childhood trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety and autism.
Over 6 years of clinical experience and 1000’s of psychotherapy practice hours have helped me become more skilled and more effective at helping my clients achieve the state of mental well-being they’re seeking. I'm constantly updating and improving my skills base as well as continuing to work on my own self - development.
I specialize in childhood trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety and autism.
Over 6 years of clinical experience and 1000’s of psychotherapy practice hours have helped me become more skilled and more effective at helping my clients achieve the state of mental well-being they’re seeking. I'm constantly updating and improving my skills base as well as continuing to work on my own self - development.
Aside from my private practice, I work for Respect For All who specialise in counselling adults and children with autism and learning disabilities.
I know things can be difficult but you don’t need to struggle alone, because I'm here to help. As a qualified therapist, my mission is to help you to overcome your fears and doubts and realise what you are truly capable of. I offer a friendly and confidential one-to-one counselling service supporting adults, young people, and children with a variety of emotional, mental, and physical issues. I will be empathic, honest, and non-judgemental during our sessions.
Aside from my private practice, I work for Respect For All who specialise in counselling adults and children with autism and learning disabilities.
I know things can be difficult but you don’t need to struggle alone, because I'm here to help. As a qualified therapist, my mission is to help you to overcome your fears and doubts and realise what you are truly capable of. I offer a friendly and confidential one-to-one counselling service supporting adults, young people, and children with a variety of emotional, mental, and physical issues. I will be empathic, honest, and non-judgemental during our sessions.
I am happy to work with anyone who asks for my help, but I specialise in helping people with autism and Asperger’s syndrome and other neurodiversities, such as ADHD (you might have one of these or are close to someone who has.).
My aim with therapy is to help you work out where you want to get to and help you find your ways to get there. Sometimes it can also be useful to think about what has happened to you. Working this way means we can find a path that suits you, in a collaborative way. I always keep in mind that you are the expert on you. I mainly use solution focused therapy which is a therapeutic approach that works with almost anybody and almost any issue. It is a way of identifying what a better life might be like and thinking through how to get there. I can also use techniques from CBT, psychodynamic and person centred counselling.
I am happy to work with anyone who asks for my help, but I specialise in helping people with autism and Asperger’s syndrome and other neurodiversities, such as ADHD (you might have one of these or are close to someone who has.).
My aim with therapy is to help you work out where you want to get to and help you find your ways to get there. Sometimes it can also be useful to think about what has happened to you. Working this way means we can find a path that suits you, in a collaborative way. I always keep in mind that you are the expert on you. I mainly use solution focused therapy which is a therapeutic approach that works with almost anybody and almost any issue. It is a way of identifying what a better life might be like and thinking through how to get there. I can also use techniques from CBT, psychodynamic and person centred counselling.
I understand how life-changing could be for anyone to be diagnosed with Autism.
I specialised in Autism in Adults, attachment disorder and trauma. I hold MSc in Psychology, MSC in Counselling, NLP Practitioner. I am a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists (C-IAYT), the British Psychological Society and the International Trainers Academy of Neuro-Linguistic Programming.
I understand how life-changing could be for anyone to be diagnosed with Autism.
I specialised in Autism in Adults, attachment disorder and trauma. I hold MSc in Psychology, MSC in Counselling, NLP Practitioner. I am a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists (C-IAYT), the British Psychological Society and the International Trainers Academy of Neuro-Linguistic Programming.
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for over 30 years.
The pandemic and lockdown saw a dramatic increase in social isolation and loneliness, but it also saw an increase in people reaching out for help from counselling and psychotherapy. As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have seen this change first-hand. It’s okay to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that you are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that you know is doing you no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in your life that you want to change. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with you to create a space from which change is possible.
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for over 30 years.
The pandemic and lockdown saw a dramatic increase in social isolation and loneliness, but it also saw an increase in people reaching out for help from counselling and psychotherapy. As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have seen this change first-hand. It’s okay to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that you are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that you know is doing you no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in your life that you want to change. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with you to create a space from which change is possible.
My ideal client is someone facing a life transition, relationship strain, or mental health challenge, perhaps alongside autism, ADHD, or a chronic illness.
I specialise in person-centred therapy, offering a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore challenges like life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. With experience supporting those with autism, ADHD, and chronic illness, I tailor each session to your unique needs, helping you gain self-awareness, resilience, and clarity.
My ideal client is someone facing a life transition, relationship strain, or mental health challenge, perhaps alongside autism, ADHD, or a chronic illness.
I specialise in person-centred therapy, offering a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore challenges like life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. With experience supporting those with autism, ADHD, and chronic illness, I tailor each session to your unique needs, helping you gain self-awareness, resilience, and clarity.
I have a passion and a wealth of knowledge (professionally and personally) of supporting neurodiverse clients (predominantly, though not exclusively clients with autism and ADHD).
I see clients of all ages ( from 11+). I am not here to be an expert over your life, I'm here to support you to understand yourself, you are the expert of your experience. I work online (£55) and also offer home visits (at additonal cost in Manchester/Stockport area). I am an advocate for outdoor therapy and also offer 'walk and talk' sessions (fees vary).
I have a passion and a wealth of knowledge (professionally and personally) of supporting neurodiverse clients (predominantly, though not exclusively clients with autism and ADHD).
I see clients of all ages ( from 11+). I am not here to be an expert over your life, I'm here to support you to understand yourself, you are the expert of your experience. I work online (£55) and also offer home visits (at additonal cost in Manchester/Stockport area). I am an advocate for outdoor therapy and also offer 'walk and talk' sessions (fees vary).
16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
I qualified in 2008, after a 12 month NHS placement and MSc in Psychological Therapy, accredited by the British Psychological Society. I'm experienced in several therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), mindfulness, person-centred counselling, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
I qualified in 2008, after a 12 month NHS placement and MSc in Psychological Therapy, accredited by the British Psychological Society. I'm experienced in several therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), mindfulness, person-centred counselling, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
our Autism diagnosis and ADHD diagnosis assessments follow the latest NICE guidelines, ensuring a high standard of care.
I’m Dr. Jennifer Vaughan, a Clinical Psychologist passionate about neurodiversity and mental well-being, having completed postgraduate specialist training Autism and Neurodivergence. I have a particular passion for understanding those who may mask their neurodivergence, where individuals may experience considerable burnout without others being aware.
our Autism diagnosis and ADHD diagnosis assessments follow the latest NICE guidelines, ensuring a high standard of care.
I’m Dr. Jennifer Vaughan, a Clinical Psychologist passionate about neurodiversity and mental well-being, having completed postgraduate specialist training Autism and Neurodivergence. I have a particular passion for understanding those who may mask their neurodivergence, where individuals may experience considerable burnout without others being aware.
Dr Karla Headon
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My skillset spans a variety of domains - I currently carry out private therapy work, Autism diagnostic assessments, risk and developmental assessments for children/young people, and also work within an inpatient service for individuals with the most acute mental health needs.
At the core of my approach is building the therapeutic relationship - the research tells us a strong therapeutic relationship contributes to successful outcomes. I work with all adults with various mental health challenges, and have specialist experience in neurodevelopmental conditions ( Autism/ADHD) having worked extensively within a specialist ND service.
My skillset spans a variety of domains - I currently carry out private therapy work, Autism diagnostic assessments, risk and developmental assessments for children/young people, and also work within an inpatient service for individuals with the most acute mental health needs.
At the core of my approach is building the therapeutic relationship - the research tells us a strong therapeutic relationship contributes to successful outcomes. I work with all adults with various mental health challenges, and have specialist experience in neurodevelopmental conditions ( Autism/ADHD) having worked extensively within a specialist ND service.
Maybe you have a diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition such as Autism, ADHD, learning needs etc and struggling with the impact of this?
I specialise in CBT, DBT and trauma informed care to treat a wide range of mental health concerns. We look at how unhelpful thought patterns impact your emotions and behaviours. We work collaboratively to build your confidence and resilience to help you to overcome emotional distress to improve your functioning by building functional, practical behaviours.
Maybe you have a diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition such as Autism, ADHD, learning needs etc and struggling with the impact of this?
I specialise in CBT, DBT and trauma informed care to treat a wide range of mental health concerns. We look at how unhelpful thought patterns impact your emotions and behaviours. We work collaboratively to build your confidence and resilience to help you to overcome emotional distress to improve your functioning by building functional, practical behaviours.
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.
I have a special interest in autism and Asperger's syndrome from both a personal and professional perspective.
I work collaboratively to look beyond symptoms to explore underlying causes. At the heart of my practice is the sense that through meeting regularly and being curious about your experience, a normal and inevitable process will take place whereby distress diminishes and acceptance grows allowing you to live more freely.
I have a special interest in autism and Asperger's syndrome from both a personal and professional perspective.
I work collaboratively to look beyond symptoms to explore underlying causes. At the heart of my practice is the sense that through meeting regularly and being curious about your experience, a normal and inevitable process will take place whereby distress diminishes and acceptance grows allowing you to live more freely.
I have a particular interest in making my practice autism-friendly.
I offer both psychodynamic and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which complement each other so well. Psychodynamic counselling primarily allows for deep dives into your experiences both past and present, as the therapeutic relationship brings awareness of your unconscious self in a manageable way. ACT then builds upon this with much more active interventions, and these can guide you on the path to leading a life that is meaningful for you whilst also learning to embrace its inevitable pain. ACT teaches us that, through mindful action rooted in our core values, we can effectively navigate life's challenges and unwanted experiences.
I have a particular interest in making my practice autism-friendly.
I offer both psychodynamic and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which complement each other so well. Psychodynamic counselling primarily allows for deep dives into your experiences both past and present, as the therapeutic relationship brings awareness of your unconscious self in a manageable way. ACT then builds upon this with much more active interventions, and these can guide you on the path to leading a life that is meaningful for you whilst also learning to embrace its inevitable pain. ACT teaches us that, through mindful action rooted in our core values, we can effectively navigate life's challenges and unwanted experiences.
Many people I work with navigate the intersection of Autism, ADHD, AuDHD and adversity, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
I support my clients in making sense of their experiences through both a trauma and neurodivergence-informed lens. This might include exploring the meaning of their autism and/or ADHD, reflecting on their identity, processing the cost of chronic masking, and reconnecting with parts of themselves that have been hidden or silenced to survive.
Many people I work with navigate the intersection of Autism, ADHD, AuDHD and adversity, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
I support my clients in making sense of their experiences through both a trauma and neurodivergence-informed lens. This might include exploring the meaning of their autism and/or ADHD, reflecting on their identity, processing the cost of chronic masking, and reconnecting with parts of themselves that have been hidden or silenced to survive.
I specialise in working with individuals with PTSD/cPTSD, ADHD, Autism and those who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual abuse, but I am happy to work with anything a client would like to bring to sessions.
There are only two things that you need to bring with you when you visit The Sanctuary: yourself and your truth. Show up with your whole self and let me take care of the rest.
Accessing counselling for the first time, or returning to counselling after a break, can be a huge step. You may be looking for counselling because there’s something specific that you know that you’d like to work on, or because there’s something going on for you but you’re not quite sure what it is. Whatever the reason is that you’ve found yourself here, I am here to work with you without judgement so you can become the version of yourself that you want to be.
I specialise in working with individuals with PTSD/cPTSD, ADHD, Autism and those who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual abuse, but I am happy to work with anything a client would like to bring to sessions.
There are only two things that you need to bring with you when you visit The Sanctuary: yourself and your truth. Show up with your whole self and let me take care of the rest.
Accessing counselling for the first time, or returning to counselling after a break, can be a huge step. You may be looking for counselling because there’s something specific that you know that you’d like to work on, or because there’s something going on for you but you’re not quite sure what it is. Whatever the reason is that you’ve found yourself here, I am here to work with you without judgement so you can become the version of yourself that you want to be.
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.
I specialise in working with anxiety, ADHD, autism, and trauma, providing a compassionate and tailored approach to therapy that recognises the unique experiences and challenges of each individual.
My name is Hannah and I’m a Person-Centred Psychotherapist. I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you’ve ever felt misunderstood, uncomfortable in traditional settings, or unsure how to express yourself. That’s why I’m dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and accommodating space where you can feel accepted and valued exactly as you are.
I work in a person-centred way, placing you at the heart of therapy in a safe, judgment-free space. My approach is flexible and fluid, adapting to your unique needs and preferences. Sessions move at your pace, ensuring therapy feels responsive, and tailored to you.
I specialise in working with anxiety, ADHD, autism, and trauma, providing a compassionate and tailored approach to therapy that recognises the unique experiences and challenges of each individual.
My name is Hannah and I’m a Person-Centred Psychotherapist. I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you’ve ever felt misunderstood, uncomfortable in traditional settings, or unsure how to express yourself. That’s why I’m dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and accommodating space where you can feel accepted and valued exactly as you are.
I work in a person-centred way, placing you at the heart of therapy in a safe, judgment-free space. My approach is flexible and fluid, adapting to your unique needs and preferences. Sessions move at your pace, ensuring therapy feels responsive, and tailored to you.
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Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Manchester
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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.