Autism Counselling in Nottingham

Photo of Cheryl Morrissey, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Cheryl Morrissey
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Life can be tough at times, can make us feel undervalued, overwhelmed and maybe quite a lonely place to be. Therapy can help us understand ourselves a little better, value our uniqueness that makes us who we are. I strive to support that self awakening, to focus on rediscovery rather than changing who you are. I am passionate about ensuring neuro-divergent people can access therapy and adapt my ways of working to meet their needs. I ensure I complete regular CPD and training in Trauma focused CBT, Theraplay Level 1, DDP Level 1&2, therapeutic parenting and training via PODS specializing in DID. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Life can be tough at times, can make us feel undervalued, overwhelmed and maybe quite a lonely place to be. Therapy can help us understand ourselves a little better, value our uniqueness that makes us who we are. I strive to support that self awakening, to focus on rediscovery rather than changing who you are. I am passionate about ensuring neuro-divergent people can access therapy and adapt my ways of working to meet their needs. I ensure I complete regular CPD and training in Trauma focused CBT, Theraplay Level 1, DDP Level 1&2, therapeutic parenting and training via PODS specializing in DID. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
0115 647 1880 View 0115 647 1880
Photo of Hannah Mitchell - Hannah Mitchell | ADHD, Autism & Trauma Therapist, Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Many neurodivergent clients find that previous therapy hasn’t fully understood their experience.
As a neurodivergent therapist specialising in ADHD and autism, my approach is built to align with how your neurodivergent mind thinks, feels, and processes. Although every client is unique, I have extensive experience in working with themes such as unmasking, RSD, burnout, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, and sensory overwhelm.
Many neurodivergent clients find that previous therapy hasn’t fully understood their experience.
As a neurodivergent therapist specialising in ADHD and autism, my approach is built to align with how your neurodivergent mind thinks, feels, and processes. Although every client is unique, I have extensive experience in working with themes such as unmasking, RSD, burnout, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, and sensory overwhelm.
01773 301543 View 01773 301543
Photo of Susanne Sklepek-Hatton, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Susanne Sklepek-Hatton
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
childhood trauma, toxic family dynamics, discrimination or the experience of being neurodivergent (self or externally diagnosed) in a neurotypical world you might feel not good enough or even ashamed.
I have several years experience working neurodivergent and neurotypical clients with different genders, ages, sexual orientations and cultures with varied presentations and depth of issues. I have undertaken additional training that has allowed me to work with clients who have experienced ongoing childhood trauma.
childhood trauma, toxic family dynamics, discrimination or the experience of being neurodivergent (self or externally diagnosed) in a neurotypical world you might feel not good enough or even ashamed.
I have several years experience working neurodivergent and neurotypical clients with different genders, ages, sexual orientations and cultures with varied presentations and depth of issues. I have undertaken additional training that has allowed me to work with clients who have experienced ongoing childhood trauma.
01777 802513 View 01777 802513
Photo of Rita Lacerda - SWAN Psychology - Rita Lacerda, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
SWAN Psychology - Rita Lacerda
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
I am a late diagnosed AuDHD psychologist and offer autism and ADHD assessments for adults, neurodivergent affirming therapy, coaching, clinical supervision and training for professionals.
Everything I do is from a strengths-based, affirming perspective. We can explore your sensory and communication needs, traumas, growth points and goals. Ultimately, it's all about developing a better sense of yourself so you can live a more authentic and fulfilling life that inspires you.
I am a late diagnosed AuDHD psychologist and offer autism and ADHD assessments for adults, neurodivergent affirming therapy, coaching, clinical supervision and training for professionals.
Everything I do is from a strengths-based, affirming perspective. We can explore your sensory and communication needs, traumas, growth points and goals. Ultimately, it's all about developing a better sense of yourself so you can live a more authentic and fulfilling life that inspires you.
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Photo of Alison Claire McLauchlan - Alison McLauchlan Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Alison McLauchlan Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, BACP
1 Endorsed
I also offer Neurodivergent Coaching.
I use a person-centred approach, which I hope will help you to make sense of your previous life experiences and current circumstances. I will listen empathically and without judgment as you explore what is going on for you. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client is essential, so I work relationally to build trust and safety.
I also offer Neurodivergent Coaching.
I use a person-centred approach, which I hope will help you to make sense of your previous life experiences and current circumstances. I will listen empathically and without judgment as you explore what is going on for you. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client is essential, so I work relationally to build trust and safety.
01777 802236 View 01777 802236
Photo of Helen (Hallie) McLaughlin, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Helen (Hallie) McLaughlin
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have additional experience in identity, autism, ADHD, AuDHD, highly sensitive people, high achievers, creative industries, work/ student life, perfectionism, disabilities and chronic health conditions.
Perhaps you're caught up in 'shoulds' around how to be? Perhaps you're used to absorbing your surroundings? Perhaps you're seeing your identity in a new way or exploring what your identity means for being you? Perhaps your sense of self is wrapped up in your career/ studies, perfectionism or organisational dynamics? Do you want a space to unpick who you are, what you need and what’s right for you? Welcome, I'm Helen, I go by Hallie. I offer one-to-one person-centred and experiential counselling and psychotherapy sessions to adults 18+ in the UK via Zoom.
I have additional experience in identity, autism, ADHD, AuDHD, highly sensitive people, high achievers, creative industries, work/ student life, perfectionism, disabilities and chronic health conditions.
Perhaps you're caught up in 'shoulds' around how to be? Perhaps you're used to absorbing your surroundings? Perhaps you're seeing your identity in a new way or exploring what your identity means for being you? Perhaps your sense of self is wrapped up in your career/ studies, perfectionism or organisational dynamics? Do you want a space to unpick who you are, what you need and what’s right for you? Welcome, I'm Helen, I go by Hallie. I offer one-to-one person-centred and experiential counselling and psychotherapy sessions to adults 18+ in the UK via Zoom.
07482 993159 View 07482 993159
Photo of Dr Mark Hudson, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Mark Hudson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I specialise in understanding emotional and behavioural difficulties in neurodivergent young people from a developmental and relational perspective.
I am passionate about working with parents and carers who want to understand the needs of their child, particularly where they might have concerns about their child's development e.g. learning or social skills. Many parents that I work with find that their child is struggling to regulate emotions, which can be shown through behavioural distress. This can have a significant impact on families, and parents may be unsure how to adapt their response. Often, parents have tried the approaches that they are familiar with, which might have worked for siblings, but don't seem to have the same effect for their child with additional needs.
I specialise in understanding emotional and behavioural difficulties in neurodivergent young people from a developmental and relational perspective.
I am passionate about working with parents and carers who want to understand the needs of their child, particularly where they might have concerns about their child's development e.g. learning or social skills. Many parents that I work with find that their child is struggling to regulate emotions, which can be shown through behavioural distress. This can have a significant impact on families, and parents may be unsure how to adapt their response. Often, parents have tried the approaches that they are familiar with, which might have worked for siblings, but don't seem to have the same effect for their child with additional needs.
01777 801576 View 01777 801576
Photo of Gordon Thomas, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Gordon Thomas
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I have an interest in working with neurodivergent clients although everyone is welcome.
I work with my clients in a supportive, non-judgemental and relational manner. It is a privilege to listen to people’s problems and I believe in the power of therapy. I will listen to what you have to say and support you to a deeper understand of yourself and your life. I work with clients in a warm and friendly way. I have experience in student support in a university setting, and in grief and bereavement counselling. I also offer general, open-ended therapy.
I have an interest in working with neurodivergent clients although everyone is welcome.
I work with my clients in a supportive, non-judgemental and relational manner. It is a privilege to listen to people’s problems and I believe in the power of therapy. I will listen to what you have to say and support you to a deeper understand of yourself and your life. I work with clients in a warm and friendly way. I have experience in student support in a university setting, and in grief and bereavement counselling. I also offer general, open-ended therapy.
0115 647 8316 View 0115 647 8316
Photo of Clare Ewers-Archer, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Clare Ewers-Archer
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
I have specialist training and experience working with young people, as well as adults and young people with autism.
I am a BSc (Hons) qualified Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Nottingham. I specialize in helping you to discover your true self by exploring hidden depths and supporting you with the issues that are causing you discomfort, anxiety, and stress. I work from a relational, person-centred perspective; integrating and tailoring therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs and goals. I recognise that seeking counselling and psychotherapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing process.
I have specialist training and experience working with young people, as well as adults and young people with autism.
I am a BSc (Hons) qualified Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Nottingham. I specialize in helping you to discover your true self by exploring hidden depths and supporting you with the issues that are causing you discomfort, anxiety, and stress. I work from a relational, person-centred perspective; integrating and tailoring therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs and goals. I recognise that seeking counselling and psychotherapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing process.
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Photo of Simon Wainwright, Counsellor, MBACP
Simon Wainwright
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
My background was for many years in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, in more recent years I have worked in mental health support, working with people who have severe and enduring mental health needs.
Hi I'm Simon, I am here to listen, reflect, discuss and support you with whatever difficulties you may want to bring to therapy. I work with you as an individual to find the best way forward for you, therapy can provide time and space to express things that you need to express, to gain a different perspective on things, to help make sense of past events and try and to move towards a more positive future.
My background was for many years in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, in more recent years I have worked in mental health support, working with people who have severe and enduring mental health needs.
Hi I'm Simon, I am here to listen, reflect, discuss and support you with whatever difficulties you may want to bring to therapy. I work with you as an individual to find the best way forward for you, therapy can provide time and space to express things that you need to express, to gain a different perspective on things, to help make sense of past events and try and to move towards a more positive future.
0115 647 3628 View 0115 647 3628
Photo of Kim Lewin, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Kim Lewin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
0115 647 7340 View 0115 647 7340
Photo of Sarah Olds, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Sarah Olds
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are experiencing autistic/AuDHD burnout, (C)PTSD, family conflict, relationship issues, anxiety, depression or workplace/academic stress, I can help you to regulate your emotions and energy levels, understand yourself better and identify strategies to help you thrive.
My approach is holistic and trauma-informed. I specialise in supporting neurodivergent clients to navigate periods of burnout/shutdown and to build new habits and routines. If you have been through an ADHD, Autism or AuDHD assessment process or this is something you are considering, I can guide you through and help you unpack what this means for you.
Whether you are experiencing autistic/AuDHD burnout, (C)PTSD, family conflict, relationship issues, anxiety, depression or workplace/academic stress, I can help you to regulate your emotions and energy levels, understand yourself better and identify strategies to help you thrive.
My approach is holistic and trauma-informed. I specialise in supporting neurodivergent clients to navigate periods of burnout/shutdown and to build new habits and routines. If you have been through an ADHD, Autism or AuDHD assessment process or this is something you are considering, I can guide you through and help you unpack what this means for you.
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Photo of Bernard I Horsford, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Bernard I Horsford
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Dr Bernard Horsford, PhD, D Occ Psych, MBA, M.Sc, LLB, BA, DipAdEd, DipM, FCIPD, MAPM, MIoD, FIC, MAE, C Psychol, AFBPsS I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of clinical settings dealing with occupational, clinical and forensic issues. In these settings, I have provided individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and psychological assessment services. I have an extensive background in working with culturally diverse populations. My practice is geared towards adolescents and adults grappling employment, personal, family work, educational or health issues.
Dr Bernard Horsford, PhD, D Occ Psych, MBA, M.Sc, LLB, BA, DipAdEd, DipM, FCIPD, MAPM, MIoD, FIC, MAE, C Psychol, AFBPsS I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of clinical settings dealing with occupational, clinical and forensic issues. In these settings, I have provided individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and psychological assessment services. I have an extensive background in working with culturally diverse populations. My practice is geared towards adolescents and adults grappling employment, personal, family work, educational or health issues.
0115 940 0499 View 0115 940 0499
Photo of Lily Lau - Lily Lau- Dramatherapy Bay Limited , Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Lily Lau- Dramatherapy Bay Limited
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
3 Endorsed
Whether you’re struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, or BPD, or other difficulties you might find it hard to express what’s really going on.
Navigating emotional overwhelm, behavioural challenges, and life transitions with a gentle, creative, and trauma-informed approach. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or a loved one, there’s no pressure—just a safe, compassionate space to explore, heal, and grow. If you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you.
Whether you’re struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, or BPD, or other difficulties you might find it hard to express what’s really going on.
Navigating emotional overwhelm, behavioural challenges, and life transitions with a gentle, creative, and trauma-informed approach. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or a loved one, there’s no pressure—just a safe, compassionate space to explore, heal, and grow. If you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you.
01223 912627 View 01223 912627
Photo of Kasmira Spence, Counsellor, MBACP
Kasmira Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work with neurodivergent clients, and with parents or carers navigating complex challenges around their children’s emotional wellbeing.
You may find yourself caught in familiar patterns that feel hard to understand or change - anxiety, difficulties with food or body image, relationship struggles, low self-esteem, grief, shame or self-criticism. Often, these experiences are connected to earlier relationships and ways of coping that once helped you get through, but may now feel limiting or painful. My work is grounded in a relational, psychodynamic approach. Together, we can gently explore how past experiences continue to shape how you feel about yourself and others today, creating space for greater understanding, self-compassion and change.
I also work with neurodivergent clients, and with parents or carers navigating complex challenges around their children’s emotional wellbeing.
You may find yourself caught in familiar patterns that feel hard to understand or change - anxiety, difficulties with food or body image, relationship struggles, low self-esteem, grief, shame or self-criticism. Often, these experiences are connected to earlier relationships and ways of coping that once helped you get through, but may now feel limiting or painful. My work is grounded in a relational, psychodynamic approach. Together, we can gently explore how past experiences continue to shape how you feel about yourself and others today, creating space for greater understanding, self-compassion and change.
01332 529229 View 01332 529229
Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Serves Area
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.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia. EXPERT WITNESS ASSESSMENT & MEDICAL EXPERT REPORTS: Psychology expert witness assessments of disability discrimination, personal injury mentally disordered offenders in the criminal justice system, fitness to plead
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.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia. EXPERT WITNESS ASSESSMENT & MEDICAL EXPERT REPORTS: Psychology expert witness assessments of disability discrimination, personal injury mentally disordered offenders in the criminal justice system, fitness to plead
020 3962 0179 View 020 3962 0179
Photo of Vauna Beauvais, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Vauna Beauvais
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Online Only
Even though you are looking for a psychotherapist or coach who specialises in working with neurodivergent people, your identity may not be the central reason for seeking a therapist.
60-minute sessions for any of the following: Relationships, workplace, family, bereavement, low mood, anxiety, socialising, dissatisfaction, feeling disappointed, directionless, gaining clarity, assertiveness, boundaries, eating issues, habits, understanding yourself, remorse, regret, loss, frustration, meaning-making, self-care, self-advocacy, Workplace.
Even though you are looking for a psychotherapist or coach who specialises in working with neurodivergent people, your identity may not be the central reason for seeking a therapist.
60-minute sessions for any of the following: Relationships, workplace, family, bereavement, low mood, anxiety, socialising, dissatisfaction, feeling disappointed, directionless, gaining clarity, assertiveness, boundaries, eating issues, habits, understanding yourself, remorse, regret, loss, frustration, meaning-making, self-care, self-advocacy, Workplace.
0115 697 1002 View 0115 697 1002
Photo of Dr Samantha Lewis - ADHD and Autism specialist - Dr Samantha Lewis, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
ADHD and Autism specialist - Dr Samantha Lewis
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who has worked exclusively in the area of adult Autism (previously known as Asperger’s syndrome) and ADHD for over 20 years, both in the NHS and in private practice.
I’m a highly specialised Consultant Clinical Psychologist passionate about the needs of neuro divergent clients ( ASD/ADHD). I believe a diagnostic assessment should be comprehensive, of high clinical standard whilst also being meaningful, compassionate, help the individual to understand how the diagnosis relates to them and also recognise their strengths
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who has worked exclusively in the area of adult Autism (previously known as Asperger’s syndrome) and ADHD for over 20 years, both in the NHS and in private practice.
I’m a highly specialised Consultant Clinical Psychologist passionate about the needs of neuro divergent clients ( ASD/ADHD). I believe a diagnostic assessment should be comprehensive, of high clinical standard whilst also being meaningful, compassionate, help the individual to understand how the diagnosis relates to them and also recognise their strengths
0116 366 8080 View 0116 366 8080
Photo of Dr Catherine Bavister, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Catherine Bavister
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with anxiety disorders (inc. anxiety, panic, phobia, stress), PTSD, depression, ADHD and ASD.
As we talk, I look for links and patterns to understand the issues, holding in mind theory on how humans think, feel, behave and relate. My experience is mainly adult mental health, including complex and enduring problems, and ASD. I use CBT, CFT and EMDR (fully trained), but I tend to bring in what works e.g. DBT, Systemic, Attachment, Psychodynamic.
I work with anxiety disorders (inc. anxiety, panic, phobia, stress), PTSD, depression, ADHD and ASD.
As we talk, I look for links and patterns to understand the issues, holding in mind theory on how humans think, feel, behave and relate. My experience is mainly adult mental health, including complex and enduring problems, and ASD. I use CBT, CFT and EMDR (fully trained), but I tend to bring in what works e.g. DBT, Systemic, Attachment, Psychodynamic.
0115 647 6924 View 0115 647 6924
Photo of Malina Moris, Counsellor, MBACP
Malina Moris
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work with many clients who identify or are diagnosed autistic and/or ADHD.
I have found my specialism in working with adults who feel unheard or unseen as a result of their history and/or identity. I am a neurodivergent therapist, with a background in relationship diversity. I provide a space where you can feel safe to explore who you are, the struggles you have faced and begin a journey of self-acceptance and growth.
I also work with many clients who identify or are diagnosed autistic and/or ADHD.
I have found my specialism in working with adults who feel unheard or unseen as a result of their history and/or identity. I am a neurodivergent therapist, with a background in relationship diversity. I provide a space where you can feel safe to explore who you are, the struggles you have faced and begin a journey of self-acceptance and growth.
01206 355783 View 01206 355783

See more therapy options for Nottingham

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.