Autism Counselling in Otley

Photo of Sally Wambold, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Sally Wambold
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I offer an online confidential, caring counselling service for individuals to help you work through emotional issues such as bereavement, relationship issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress and past experiences that are impacting you in the present. Or you may be feeling unhappy, stuck or struggling to cope with everyday life. I have a special interest in counselling & coaching for neurodiverse individuals and provide additional insight & empathy through my own lived experience of neurodiversity. I also have considerable experience of working with both cancer patients & their supporters to manage their trauma & stress.
I offer an online confidential, caring counselling service for individuals to help you work through emotional issues such as bereavement, relationship issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress and past experiences that are impacting you in the present. Or you may be feeling unhappy, stuck or struggling to cope with everyday life. I have a special interest in counselling & coaching for neurodiverse individuals and provide additional insight & empathy through my own lived experience of neurodiversity. I also have considerable experience of working with both cancer patients & their supporters to manage their trauma & stress.
01943 262039 View 01943 262039
Photo of Andy Whitehouse, Psychotherapist, BACP
Andy Whitehouse
Psychotherapist, BACP
Serves Area
I am also neurodivergent and work with many adults with late diagnosis of Autism and other related processing differences.
I am a person-centred counsellor and supervisor and have been working with people seeking change for many years. I have never yet come across anyone who's distress or anxiety or sadness didn't make sense in the context of their life experience. Every individual is different and special in my book but has in common the need to be heard, recognised, valued and understood. Those four things are at the heart of my practice. Whatever your concern or difficulty, sharing what is on your mind and in your heart in a safe space is the start of healing and self acceptance. I work online and by phone as well as face to face.
I am also neurodivergent and work with many adults with late diagnosis of Autism and other related processing differences.
I am a person-centred counsellor and supervisor and have been working with people seeking change for many years. I have never yet come across anyone who's distress or anxiety or sadness didn't make sense in the context of their life experience. Every individual is different and special in my book but has in common the need to be heard, recognised, valued and understood. Those four things are at the heart of my practice. Whatever your concern or difficulty, sharing what is on your mind and in your heart in a safe space is the start of healing and self acceptance. I work online and by phone as well as face to face.
0114 478 2442 View 0114 478 2442
Photo of Rachel Kathryn Tandy, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Rachel Kathryn Tandy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Otley LS21
I specialise in working with people of all ages who are dealing with all types of distress and anxiety, from a wide range of issues. I am an integrative, compassionate counsellor who adapts to the individual, believing that no one style or type of therapy works best. I believe in being creative, open and adaptable, and my approach is varied based on the needs of the individual. I have experience of working with people with neurodiversity and the challenges that can bring.
I specialise in working with people of all ages who are dealing with all types of distress and anxiety, from a wide range of issues. I am an integrative, compassionate counsellor who adapts to the individual, believing that no one style or type of therapy works best. I believe in being creative, open and adaptable, and my approach is varied based on the needs of the individual. I have experience of working with people with neurodiversity and the challenges that can bring.
01484 627946 View 01484 627946
Photo of Sarah Naylor, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Sarah Naylor
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work in a neuro affirmative way and am also experienced in working with neurodivergent clients.
Are you feeling, unsettled, overwhelmed or facing things that are difficult to think about on our own? This may be something in your past or something that is very current. Together we can explore these difficulties and gain insight and understanding to bring clarity and a greater sense of peace. You are assured of a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental space where we can explore whatever your difficulty, leading to personal growth through a deeper understanding, acceptance, and change. Talking to people close to us may feel difficult and often working with a therapist can help you to see a clearer path to your future.
I work in a neuro affirmative way and am also experienced in working with neurodivergent clients.
Are you feeling, unsettled, overwhelmed or facing things that are difficult to think about on our own? This may be something in your past or something that is very current. Together we can explore these difficulties and gain insight and understanding to bring clarity and a greater sense of peace. You are assured of a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental space where we can explore whatever your difficulty, leading to personal growth through a deeper understanding, acceptance, and change. Talking to people close to us may feel difficult and often working with a therapist can help you to see a clearer path to your future.
0113 519 3584 View 0113 519 3584
Photo of Andy Farrell, Counsellor, MBACP
Andy Farrell
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I'm Andy and as a qualified person-centred counsellor, I strongly believe we all have the ability to navigate life's challenges by drawing on our own experience and capabilities. My role is to invite clients to explore whatever they choose in order to gain a deeper understanding of how it's impacting them, enabling them to create positive change. I do this through actively listening and offering useful reflections of themes I may notice, including any changes over time. I ask clients questions that encourage them to think about their experiences in new ways and never judge or lead anyone into talking about something uncomfortable.
I'm Andy and as a qualified person-centred counsellor, I strongly believe we all have the ability to navigate life's challenges by drawing on our own experience and capabilities. My role is to invite clients to explore whatever they choose in order to gain a deeper understanding of how it's impacting them, enabling them to create positive change. I do this through actively listening and offering useful reflections of themes I may notice, including any changes over time. I ask clients questions that encourage them to think about their experiences in new ways and never judge or lead anyone into talking about something uncomfortable.
0113 512 7087 View 0113 512 7087
Photo of Lucy Karfopoulos, Counsellor, MBACP
Lucy Karfopoulos
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I’m Lucy (she/her), a person-centred psychotherapist. I provide counselling support for young people (12–18) and adults. I have extensive experience in supporting clients through a wide range of issues and experiences. I believe therapy should be tailored to you, so I take a collaborative and flexible approach. I work from a person-centred foundation, drawing on a variety of therapeutic methods and tools to suit your preferences and goals. I offer a space that is relaxed and supportive, where you can speak openly, understanding your emotions, behaviours and thoughts. Real change becomes possible through connection and reflection.
I’m Lucy (she/her), a person-centred psychotherapist. I provide counselling support for young people (12–18) and adults. I have extensive experience in supporting clients through a wide range of issues and experiences. I believe therapy should be tailored to you, so I take a collaborative and flexible approach. I work from a person-centred foundation, drawing on a variety of therapeutic methods and tools to suit your preferences and goals. I offer a space that is relaxed and supportive, where you can speak openly, understanding your emotions, behaviours and thoughts. Real change becomes possible through connection and reflection.
01274 041813 View 01274 041813
Photo of Bernie Ryder, Counsellor, MBACP
Bernie Ryder
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I work with adults from all walks of life who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck or struggling to make sense of difficult emotions or life experiences. Many of the people I support are living with anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, work-related stress or major life changes. Some arrive knowing exactly what's troubling them, while others simply know that life doesn't feel quite right. I offer a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace.
I work with adults from all walks of life who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck or struggling to make sense of difficult emotions or life experiences. Many of the people I support are living with anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, work-related stress or major life changes. Some arrive knowing exactly what's troubling them, while others simply know that life doesn't feel quite right. I offer a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace.
0113 519 9955 View 0113 519 9955
Photo of Phil McQuillan, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Phil McQuillan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist with previous experience working in an NHS and a university setting. I work with adults and young people 18+. I work with a range of presenting issues, including issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma, but also have experience working with issues relating to relationships, bereavement, identity, self-criticality, burnout, neurodiversity/neurodivergence (assessed or self-identified), kink, bdsm and non-monogamy, and issues relating to working in the creative arts.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist with previous experience working in an NHS and a university setting. I work with adults and young people 18+. I work with a range of presenting issues, including issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma, but also have experience working with issues relating to relationships, bereavement, identity, self-criticality, burnout, neurodiversity/neurodivergence (assessed or self-identified), kink, bdsm and non-monogamy, and issues relating to working in the creative arts.
01943 661246 View 01943 661246
Photo of Julia de los Rios, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Julia de los Rios
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Reaching out for help takes courage, particularly if your self-esteem and confidence are low. But, if you want to make changes in your life then you may need support. People come to counselling for all sorts of reasons; anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bereavement, trauma etc. Perhaps you feel inhibited, have unhealthy patterns of behaviour or your emotions may be hijacking your ability to respond and keep perspective. Whatever the reason, the chances are you are feeling deeply distressed. You don’t have to keep struggling alone. Together we can work out what is causing you to feel threatened, overwhelmed or empty.
Reaching out for help takes courage, particularly if your self-esteem and confidence are low. But, if you want to make changes in your life then you may need support. People come to counselling for all sorts of reasons; anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bereavement, trauma etc. Perhaps you feel inhibited, have unhealthy patterns of behaviour or your emotions may be hijacking your ability to respond and keep perspective. Whatever the reason, the chances are you are feeling deeply distressed. You don’t have to keep struggling alone. Together we can work out what is causing you to feel threatened, overwhelmed or empty.
0113 320 6027 View 0113 320 6027
Photo of Jodie Morrison, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Jodie Morrison
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jodie. I'm a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, based in Adel, north Leeds. Maybe you're going through something difficult - feeling anxious, overwhelmed or burnt out. Maybe you're feeling a little lost or stuck, or just aware that something isn't working. You don't have to have it all figured out before getting in touch. I work alongside you, following your lead to understand your experience and explore whatever feels important to you. Sessions take place in a calm, private therapy room in Adel, with its own entrance and bathroom, or online via video call.
Hi, I’m Jodie. I'm a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, based in Adel, north Leeds. Maybe you're going through something difficult - feeling anxious, overwhelmed or burnt out. Maybe you're feeling a little lost or stuck, or just aware that something isn't working. You don't have to have it all figured out before getting in touch. I work alongside you, following your lead to understand your experience and explore whatever feels important to you. Sessions take place in a calm, private therapy room in Adel, with its own entrance and bathroom, or online via video call.
0113 519 5831 View 0113 519 5831

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emma Johnston - Emma Johnston Counselling, Counsellor, BACP
Emma Johnston Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS27
If you or your partner are neurodivergent I can help you find collaborative ways of communicating together.
I am a down to earth Yorkshire women who is also a Wife and Mum. I have a rich tapestry of lived experience and theory at my disposal. I've always felt safe and protected whilst walking through woods. I aim to offer the same feeling of safety and protection as we take this journey together and I walk alongside you whilst you go on a journey of discovery.
If you or your partner are neurodivergent I can help you find collaborative ways of communicating together.
I am a down to earth Yorkshire women who is also a Wife and Mum. I have a rich tapestry of lived experience and theory at my disposal. I've always felt safe and protected whilst walking through woods. I aim to offer the same feeling of safety and protection as we take this journey together and I walk alongside you whilst you go on a journey of discovery.
0113 467 9535 View 0113 467 9535
Photo of Dr Silke Newman, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Silke Newman
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Are you autistic, ADHD, AuDHD or have a Learning (Intellectual) Disability — and finding things particularly hard right now?
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with over 26 years' experience, much of it within the NHS, specialising in autism, ADHD, AuDHD and Learning Disabilities — and I have neurodivergent lived experience of my own. I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy and Diagnostic Assessments to help you understand your experiences and feel more grounded and confident.
Are you autistic, ADHD, AuDHD or have a Learning (Intellectual) Disability — and finding things particularly hard right now?
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with over 26 years' experience, much of it within the NHS, specialising in autism, ADHD, AuDHD and Learning Disabilities — and I have neurodivergent lived experience of my own. I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy and Diagnostic Assessments to help you understand your experiences and feel more grounded and confident.
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Photo of Catherine Tatman - Leeds Centre for Attachment & Trauma (LCAT), Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Welcome! We're a specialist child, adolescent and adult psychotherapy service, working from a cosy practice in North Leeds. We offer: Creative psychotherapy to children, teens and young adults; Attachment psychotherapy to parents and children together; Trauma-focussed psychotherapy - including EMDR - to children and adults Our unique approach integrates somatic and creative therapies with a rich understanding of child and adult personality development. With us, you’ll find a service that really understands development, the impact of traumatic stress on the body and the importance of attachment relationships across the lifespan.
Welcome! We're a specialist child, adolescent and adult psychotherapy service, working from a cosy practice in North Leeds. We offer: Creative psychotherapy to children, teens and young adults; Attachment psychotherapy to parents and children together; Trauma-focussed psychotherapy - including EMDR - to children and adults Our unique approach integrates somatic and creative therapies with a rich understanding of child and adult personality development. With us, you’ll find a service that really understands development, the impact of traumatic stress on the body and the importance of attachment relationships across the lifespan.
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Photo of Dr Katja Osswald, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Katja Osswald
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
York YO10
I also have specialist experience supporting people with neurodevelopmental difference ( autism, ADHD, tics, Tourette's syndrome).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive NHS experience as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist for autism and ADHD services. I use a range of evidence-based therapies to help you build a new relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings, and EMDR for trauma and distressing memories. I draw on a range of approaches and tailor everything to you.
I also have specialist experience supporting people with neurodevelopmental difference ( autism, ADHD, tics, Tourette's syndrome).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive NHS experience as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist for autism and ADHD services. I use a range of evidence-based therapies to help you build a new relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings, and EMDR for trauma and distressing memories. I draw on a range of approaches and tailor everything to you.
01889 223934 View 01889 223934
Photo of Rachel Ambrose, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachel Ambrose
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
For instance, you may be: • Feeling burned out, fatigued, or emotionally drained • Struggling with self-esteem or feeling “not good enough” Worried about being a burden to others • Feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood • Coping with loss, change, or uncertainty • Feeling overwhelmed by a world that doesn’t suit the neurodivergent brain?
My experience has given me specific interests in working with those struggling with the following specific areas: Specific areas of focus: • Neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD, and related experiences) • Chronic illness and fatigue (Long Covid, ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia) • Chronic pain, migraines, and headaches • Anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement
For instance, you may be: • Feeling burned out, fatigued, or emotionally drained • Struggling with self-esteem or feeling “not good enough” Worried about being a burden to others • Feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood • Coping with loss, change, or uncertainty • Feeling overwhelmed by a world that doesn’t suit the neurodivergent brain?
My experience has given me specific interests in working with those struggling with the following specific areas: Specific areas of focus: • Neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD, and related experiences) • Chronic illness and fatigue (Long Covid, ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia) • Chronic pain, migraines, and headaches • Anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement
01484 598911 View 01484 598911
Photo of Alannah Carragher, Counsellor, MBACP
Alannah Carragher
Counsellor, MBACP
As an AuDHD therapist and someone who is proudly a member of the LGBTQ+ community, my practice supports anyone who feels they are different and do not fit, whatever their identity and how they choose to label themselves. Having extensively worked in community and crisis mental health settings, my work is ideal for those who have suffered trauma, with specialism's in areas such as sexual violence, domestic abuse and other trauma related disorders. My practice aims to create a safe and holding space, where we can use emotional exploration and creative techniques to explore what has happened to you and we can work towards healing this.
As an AuDHD therapist and someone who is proudly a member of the LGBTQ+ community, my practice supports anyone who feels they are different and do not fit, whatever their identity and how they choose to label themselves. Having extensively worked in community and crisis mental health settings, my work is ideal for those who have suffered trauma, with specialism's in areas such as sexual violence, domestic abuse and other trauma related disorders. My practice aims to create a safe and holding space, where we can use emotional exploration and creative techniques to explore what has happened to you and we can work towards healing this.
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Photo of Anya Zinkivskay, Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Serves Area
I work with individual clients and groups affected by trauma, PTSD or CPTSD (stemming from armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), neurodiverse development and function ( ASD, ADHD and/or specific learning difficulties), depression, loss, bereavement and addiction.
Experienced private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20+ years background in neuropsychology. I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. In my Trauma-informed practice, I employ evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, ERP, and DBT, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim to grow self-awareness. Offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe, and empathic environment, I have been supporting clients from across the UK, Europe and further afield.
I work with individual clients and groups affected by trauma, PTSD or CPTSD (stemming from armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), neurodiverse development and function ( ASD, ADHD and/or specific learning difficulties), depression, loss, bereavement and addiction.
Experienced private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20+ years background in neuropsychology. I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. In my Trauma-informed practice, I employ evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, ERP, and DBT, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim to grow self-awareness. Offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe, and empathic environment, I have been supporting clients from across the UK, Europe and further afield.
01663 790112 View 01663 790112
Photo of Colin David Ogdon, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Colin David Ogdon
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I work with adults across a wide range of experiences, including neurodivergence ( autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia), PTSD, CPTSD, and BPD, as well as identity and gender-related challenges.
We work together to understand how your experiences have shaped you, how your beliefs and nervous system are primed to think and react, and why certain patterns repeat. We look at your history and current life, structuring what’s happening and what can change. It’s a collaborative, kind, and practical process.
I work with adults across a wide range of experiences, including neurodivergence ( autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia), PTSD, CPTSD, and BPD, as well as identity and gender-related challenges.
We work together to understand how your experiences have shaped you, how your beliefs and nervous system are primed to think and react, and why certain patterns repeat. We look at your history and current life, structuring what’s happening and what can change. It’s a collaborative, kind, and practical process.
0161 694 8751 View 0161 694 8751
Photo of Kat Scurr - Supportive Counselling Ltd, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Supportive Counselling Ltd
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
York YO10
Clients often come with anxiety, burnout, trauma, identity or neurodivergent experiences.
We offer neuro-affirming, trauma-informed counselling tailored to the individual. Our team specialises in neurodivergence, trauma, sleep and grief, supporting children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, burnout, identity and emotional overwhelm. We work collaboratively to feel understood, build coping strategies and move forward in a way that fits.
Clients often come with anxiety, burnout, trauma, identity or neurodivergent experiences.
We offer neuro-affirming, trauma-informed counselling tailored to the individual. Our team specialises in neurodivergence, trauma, sleep and grief, supporting children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, burnout, identity and emotional overwhelm. We work collaboratively to feel understood, build coping strategies and move forward in a way that fits.
01889 220902 View 01889 220902
Photo of Debbie Challinor - Debbie Challinor Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MBACP
I'm a counsellor with lived neurodivergent experience, passionate about working with individuals and couples in the neurodivergent community.
I strive to make my practice accessible to everyone, creating a safe, accommodating space that promotes open communication and mutual respect. So, I provide tailored support to make sure our sessions are comfortable, meaningful, beneficial, and, most importantly, meet your needs.
I'm a counsellor with lived neurodivergent experience, passionate about working with individuals and couples in the neurodivergent community.
I strive to make my practice accessible to everyone, creating a safe, accommodating space that promotes open communication and mutual respect. So, I provide tailored support to make sure our sessions are comfortable, meaningful, beneficial, and, most importantly, meet your needs.
01706 335950 View 01706 335950
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.