Autism Counselling in Sowerby Bridge

Leila Jones
Counsellor, MBACP
Whatever your idea or experience of therapy is, I will work with you to help achieve your goals and explore your troubles at your own pace. It could be anxiety, depression, questions around identity, self esteem, or you could be going through a difficult time, please don't hesitate to reach out. My career path in care (people of all ages and animals) has landed me in a profession where I can still be true to my values and apply my natural yet professional stance with empathy, compassion and transparency.
Whatever your idea or experience of therapy is, I will work with you to help achieve your goals and explore your troubles at your own pace. It could be anxiety, depression, questions around identity, self esteem, or you could be going through a difficult time, please don't hesitate to reach out. My career path in care (people of all ages and animals) has landed me in a profession where I can still be true to my values and apply my natural yet professional stance with empathy, compassion and transparency.
01422 417848 View 01422 417848
Brighter Futures Clinical & Counselling Psychology
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
These include children's residential care, psychiatric inpatient (child and adult, female low-secure), a play-therapy charity, conducting autism assessments, and a charity for adults who have experienced sexual and intimate partner abuse.
Brighter Futures offers trauma-informed therapy for adopted and looked-after children, families, and adults who have experienced trauma to help reduce the surprising and frightening range of symptoms it causes. We support children who have experienced developmental and early life trauma, as well as their families and the organisations around them. Our therapists have personal experience caring for looked after children and children with neurodiversities, so we know how challenging it can be. We support adults who have grown up after childhood trauma, and those who have experienced intimate-partner or sexual violence.
These include children's residential care, psychiatric inpatient (child and adult, female low-secure), a play-therapy charity, conducting autism assessments, and a charity for adults who have experienced sexual and intimate partner abuse.
Brighter Futures offers trauma-informed therapy for adopted and looked-after children, families, and adults who have experienced trauma to help reduce the surprising and frightening range of symptoms it causes. We support children who have experienced developmental and early life trauma, as well as their families and the organisations around them. Our therapists have personal experience caring for looked after children and children with neurodiversities, so we know how challenging it can be. We support adults who have grown up after childhood trauma, and those who have experienced intimate-partner or sexual violence.
01422 413659 View 01422 413659
Kat Beatty
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
I specialise in helping people dealing with anxiety, stress or who are recovering from difficult life experiences to heal and move forwards in life. If you feel like therapy which offers more than simply talking would serve you, then I am glad you are here reading this. In addition to offering a safe and non-judgemental space for you to speak freely, I also offer tools which you can use to reflect and heal. Whether you would like to work through a specific trauma, fear, phobia, feeling or experience, or you would like to work slowly through many issues, I am here to help.
I specialise in helping people dealing with anxiety, stress or who are recovering from difficult life experiences to heal and move forwards in life. If you feel like therapy which offers more than simply talking would serve you, then I am glad you are here reading this. In addition to offering a safe and non-judgemental space for you to speak freely, I also offer tools which you can use to reflect and heal. Whether you would like to work through a specific trauma, fear, phobia, feeling or experience, or you would like to work slowly through many issues, I am here to help.
01422 557330 View 01422 557330
Annette Quirk
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
It could be that you’ve become stuck worrying about the future, or you’ve got some big stuff in your head that’s getting in the way of moving forwards and it’s time to do something with it so that you can move on. Maybe there is fear and anxiety of making change, or you feel stressed and sad? Or maybe there is some unavoidable unhappiness in that is in the background of your life? Hi there…. I am Annette, I offer talking-therapy with adults, couples and young people (18+). I am down to earth, genuine, compassionate and curious person-centred therapist. I have a neuro-affirming informal style of practice.
It could be that you’ve become stuck worrying about the future, or you’ve got some big stuff in your head that’s getting in the way of moving forwards and it’s time to do something with it so that you can move on. Maybe there is fear and anxiety of making change, or you feel stressed and sad? Or maybe there is some unavoidable unhappiness in that is in the background of your life? Hi there…. I am Annette, I offer talking-therapy with adults, couples and young people (18+). I am down to earth, genuine, compassionate and curious person-centred therapist. I have a neuro-affirming informal style of practice.
01422 557859 View 01422 557859
Dan Cornford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We all experience pain and distress in our lives sometimes. We may feel stuck, overwhelmed and unable to cope any longer. Therapy offers a path towards positive change and deeper understanding. I believe therapy should be available to everybody and everybody can benefit from therapy. You have already taken the first, brave step towards becoming closer to who you want to be by reaching out for help. I can provide a safe, supportive space in which we can explore your problems and work together with compassion and insight towards a brighter future.
We all experience pain and distress in our lives sometimes. We may feel stuck, overwhelmed and unable to cope any longer. Therapy offers a path towards positive change and deeper understanding. I believe therapy should be available to everybody and everybody can benefit from therapy. You have already taken the first, brave step towards becoming closer to who you want to be by reaching out for help. I can provide a safe, supportive space in which we can explore your problems and work together with compassion and insight towards a brighter future.
01628 969367 View 01628 969367

More Therapists Nearby

Niamh Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Neurodivergent psychotherapist/counsellor providing ND-affirming therapy to children, teenagers & adults - Do you struggle with feeling misunderstood by others, or overwhelmed with the responsibilities of daily life?
I am a qualified psychotherapist/counsellor with my own ADHD diagnosis, and I have helped many clients struggling with their ADHD and/or autism. We can talk about anything you are struggling with and you will not be judged. I use the person-centred counselling approach in my practice. This means that the sessions are led by what you would like to talk about
Neurodivergent psychotherapist/counsellor providing ND-affirming therapy to children, teenagers & adults - Do you struggle with feeling misunderstood by others, or overwhelmed with the responsibilities of daily life?
I am a qualified psychotherapist/counsellor with my own ADHD diagnosis, and I have helped many clients struggling with their ADHD and/or autism. We can talk about anything you are struggling with and you will not be judged. I use the person-centred counselling approach in my practice. This means that the sessions are led by what you would like to talk about
01484 627556 View 01484 627556
Hannah Mitchell | ADHD, Autism & Trauma Therapist
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
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
Chloe Dawson
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm experienced with neurodiversity and late diagnosis of ADHD/ Autism, depression, anxiety, relationships and OCD.
Hi, I'm glad you’re here. I'm Chloe, and I'm neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQ+ inclusive. I work in an integrative way; grounded in Psychodynamic theory with a person-centred approach, to best fit your unique needs, experiences, and goals. I work with people who are looking for a space where they can show up exactly as they are; no masks, no judgment. I'm one half of Tend Counselling and our ethos is gently looking into past patterns and experiences that affect the present, but in a way that won't leave you dysregulated. The best growth is at your own pace and on your terms.
I'm experienced with neurodiversity and late diagnosis of ADHD/ Autism, depression, anxiety, relationships and OCD.
Hi, I'm glad you’re here. I'm Chloe, and I'm neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQ+ inclusive. I work in an integrative way; grounded in Psychodynamic theory with a person-centred approach, to best fit your unique needs, experiences, and goals. I work with people who are looking for a space where they can show up exactly as they are; no masks, no judgment. I'm one half of Tend Counselling and our ethos is gently looking into past patterns and experiences that affect the present, but in a way that won't leave you dysregulated. The best growth is at your own pace and on your terms.
01663 794122 View 01663 794122
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
Martin Spencer
Counsellor, MBACP
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 talking about 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 talking about how to get there. I can also use techniques from CBT, psychodynamic and person centred counselling.
01457 605981 View 01457 605981
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
Speak To Lauren
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be neurodivergent, work in a creative field, or simply feel different or misunderstood.
I offer online counselling for adults, specialising in neurodivergent clients including ADHD, autism, AuDHD and OCD. I provide a calm, accepting space to explore anxiety, burnout, self-doubt and overwhelm. I also support those in creative and entertainment roles, helping you feel heard, grounded and able to move forward.
You may be neurodivergent, work in a creative field, or simply feel different or misunderstood.
I offer online counselling for adults, specialising in neurodivergent clients including ADHD, autism, AuDHD and OCD. I provide a calm, accepting space to explore anxiety, burnout, self-doubt and overwhelm. I also support those in creative and entertainment roles, helping you feel heard, grounded and able to move forward.
01323 692233 View 01323 692233
Kevin Coogan
Counsellor, MBACP
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for 40 years.
As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have many years’ experience of people in crisis. Sometimes we know the cause and don’t know what to do about it. Sometimes we just don’t know what’s up with us. It’s okay to recognise that we are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that we are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that we know is doing us no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in our life that we want to change. And it’s okay to just feel different and not know what’s wrong. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with people to create a space from which change is possible.
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for 40 years.
As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have many years’ experience of people in crisis. Sometimes we know the cause and don’t know what to do about it. Sometimes we just don’t know what’s up with us. It’s okay to recognise that we are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that we are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that we know is doing us no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in our life that we want to change. And it’s okay to just feel different and not know what’s wrong. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with people to create a space from which change is possible.
0161 524 0011 View 0161 524 0011
Hayley Dunn
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
I particularly welcome those who have recently discovered they are autistic, PDA and/or ADHD.
There are many reasons why someone might seek therapy. You could be a stage in your life where you are confused about who you really are and what to do next. You may be haunted by old traumas or facing new challenges. It may be that you are experiencing relationship or family issues, there may be problems at work. You may be going through grief and loss, or facing illness or disability. Any of this could leave you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or burnt out. Alternatively, you may not know why you are struggling with your mental health. I provide a calm, warm, supportive presence to help you figure it all out.
I particularly welcome those who have recently discovered they are autistic, PDA and/or ADHD.
There are many reasons why someone might seek therapy. You could be a stage in your life where you are confused about who you really are and what to do next. You may be haunted by old traumas or facing new challenges. It may be that you are experiencing relationship or family issues, there may be problems at work. You may be going through grief and loss, or facing illness or disability. Any of this could leave you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or burnt out. Alternatively, you may not know why you are struggling with your mental health. I provide a calm, warm, supportive presence to help you figure it all out.
0161 694 7412 View 0161 694 7412
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
Jennifer McKean
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Online Only
In addition to my general practice, I also specialise in supporting people adjusting to life after an Autism or ADHD diagnosis, helping them explore areas such as masking, burnout, and self-acceptance.
I'm an accredited counsellor with a professional background in mental health services, offering therapy that's approachable and free from judgement. There’s no expectation to have the right words or to share everything - our work together is led by what you want to bring. Whether it’s having a good rant or gently exploring something you’ve been holding onto, we’ll start where it feels right for you. I work with all adults and students, navigating challenges such as stress, identity, confidence, anxiety, and life transitions.
In addition to my general practice, I also specialise in supporting people adjusting to life after an Autism or ADHD diagnosis, helping them explore areas such as masking, burnout, and self-acceptance.
I'm an accredited counsellor with a professional background in mental health services, offering therapy that's approachable and free from judgement. There’s no expectation to have the right words or to share everything - our work together is led by what you want to bring. Whether it’s having a good rant or gently exploring something you’ve been holding onto, we’ll start where it feels right for you. I work with all adults and students, navigating challenges such as stress, identity, confidence, anxiety, and life transitions.
01983 217854 View 01983 217854
Te Video Counselling. Caroline Smith.
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Specialise in working with late diagnosed/realised neurodivergent adults, chronic illness, chronic pain conditions and hormonal challenges, childhood trauma, burnout and narcissistic abuse.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I offer a unique tailored service to suit your individual needs. Offering person centred talk therapy, compassion focused therapy, expressive therapies, body based focusing and breathworks depending on what works for you. Offering compassion and curiosity to every session. Sliding scale based on personal finances. £35-£65.
Specialise in working with late diagnosed/realised neurodivergent adults, chronic illness, chronic pain conditions and hormonal challenges, childhood trauma, burnout and narcissistic abuse.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I offer a unique tailored service to suit your individual needs. Offering person centred talk therapy, compassion focused therapy, expressive therapies, body based focusing and breathworks depending on what works for you. Offering compassion and curiosity to every session. Sliding scale based on personal finances. £35-£65.
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Krieanna Johnson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Neurodivergent?
Fully accredited with the BABCP, I offer NICE guideline based treatments for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent parent, with neurodivergent children, and having worked with multiple neurodivergent people, I have a unique perspective and understanding of common difficulties and adaptations for therapy that can help.
Neurodivergent?
Fully accredited with the BABCP, I offer NICE guideline based treatments for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent parent, with neurodivergent children, and having worked with multiple neurodivergent people, I have a unique perspective and understanding of common difficulties and adaptations for therapy that can help.
01302 490855 View 01302 490855
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
1 Endorsed
High Peak SK22
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
Sarah Winters Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Waitlist for new clients
I regularly undertake additional training, examples of topics are: polyvagal/trauma informed approach to therapy, attachment theory, self-harm & suicidal ideation, working with children with autism and/or ADHD.
Supporting children and young people to blossom and thrive. Life can be tough, especially for children and young people who may be navigating new experiences or who are trying to understand who they are and establish their own identity. I am a child and young person’s therapist and can support young people in processing and making sense of difficult experiences, such as parent separation, challenges with peer relationships, grief or trauma. I work with young people to enable them to understand their emotions and how to regulate these.
I regularly undertake additional training, examples of topics are: polyvagal/trauma informed approach to therapy, attachment theory, self-harm & suicidal ideation, working with children with autism and/or ADHD.
Supporting children and young people to blossom and thrive. Life can be tough, especially for children and young people who may be navigating new experiences or who are trying to understand who they are and establish their own identity. I am a child and young person’s therapist and can support young people in processing and making sense of difficult experiences, such as parent separation, challenges with peer relationships, grief or trauma. I work with young people to enable them to understand their emotions and how to regulate these.
0161 524 5039 View 0161 524 5039
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.