Autism Counselling in Weston-super-Mare

Photo of Nicola Jane Paice - Discovery Counselling and Wellbeing Services , Counsellor, MBACP
With extensive experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds, I have developed an interest and expertise in working with children and young people, especially teenagers and neurodiverse clients. I understand the unique challenges they face and am dedicated to supporting them through their journey.
With extensive experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds, I have developed an interest and expertise in working with children and young people, especially teenagers and neurodiverse clients. I understand the unique challenges they face and am dedicated to supporting them through their journey.
01747 449954 View 01747 449954
Photo of Kerry Berber, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Kerry Berber
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I have a great deal of experience (both lived and professional) with autism and ADHD, and deliver CPD training to other therapists on this subject.
I work in a lovely, bright and airy office in Weston offering an integrative approach to counselling. This means I am able to draw upon a wide range of theoretical approaches and tools to work in a way that suits you best. I offer long term counselling if desired and do not limit the number of sessions that clients attend.
I have a great deal of experience (both lived and professional) with autism and ADHD, and deliver CPD training to other therapists on this subject.
I work in a lovely, bright and airy office in Weston offering an integrative approach to counselling. This means I am able to draw upon a wide range of theoretical approaches and tools to work in a way that suits you best. I offer long term counselling if desired and do not limit the number of sessions that clients attend.
01934 314144 View 01934 314144
Photo of Sara Bailey, Counsellor, BACP
Sara Bailey
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
I have experience working with ADHD, autism, OCD, grief, and trauma.
Every so often life throws things at us that we struggle to deal with or understand. This can be anything from the loss of a loved one to break down in relationship with family members to receiving a life changing diagnosis. It can be because of these things that we begin to question things in our everyday life and who we are. Having suffered a grief which ultimately changed the course of my life, experienced breakdowns in relationships, supported my own child through an ADHD diagnosis and not understanding how my past had affected me I understand how it feels to go through these struggles.
I have experience working with ADHD, autism, OCD, grief, and trauma.
Every so often life throws things at us that we struggle to deal with or understand. This can be anything from the loss of a loved one to break down in relationship with family members to receiving a life changing diagnosis. It can be because of these things that we begin to question things in our everyday life and who we are. Having suffered a grief which ultimately changed the course of my life, experienced breakdowns in relationships, supported my own child through an ADHD diagnosis and not understanding how my past had affected me I understand how it feels to go through these struggles.
01278 557622 View 01278 557622
Photo of Amy Woodman, Counsellor, MBACP
Amy Woodman
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
My approach is tailored and trauma-informed, supporting neurodivergent clients (particularly autism and ADHD) and those exploring depression, anxiety, identity, or trauma.
Drawing from person-centred, relational, and trauma-informed approaches. My practice is neurodiversity-affirming and grounded in respect for your lived experience. Sessions can be online or in-person in either Bridgwater or Taunton, always at your pace.
My approach is tailored and trauma-informed, supporting neurodivergent clients (particularly autism and ADHD) and those exploring depression, anxiety, identity, or trauma.
Drawing from person-centred, relational, and trauma-informed approaches. My practice is neurodiversity-affirming and grounded in respect for your lived experience. Sessions can be online or in-person in either Bridgwater or Taunton, always at your pace.
01278 553192 View 01278 553192
Photo of Lynette Brice, Counsellor, MBACP
Lynette Brice
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends. I can offer a non-judgemental, gentle, accepting confidential space for you to share your issues and concerns, knowing you will not be rejected or discriminated against. I have lived experience of transgender identities, as my son is transgender. I have witnessed the high mental health conditions, suicidal ideation, including self-harm, and loss faced by LGBT+ individuals that I have counselled, along with the hurdles my son has encountered during his transition. I would like to walk with you along your pathway, and consider myself privileged to do so.
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends. I can offer a non-judgemental, gentle, accepting confidential space for you to share your issues and concerns, knowing you will not be rejected or discriminated against. I have lived experience of transgender identities, as my son is transgender. I have witnessed the high mental health conditions, suicidal ideation, including self-harm, and loss faced by LGBT+ individuals that I have counselled, along with the hurdles my son has encountered during his transition. I would like to walk with you along your pathway, and consider myself privileged to do so.
01275 409794 View 01275 409794
Photo of Dave Somerton, Counsellor, MBACP
Dave Somerton
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I can support you if you're experiencing challenges such as relational trauma, anxiety, depression, stress or bereavement, amongst others. Do you feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with life's day-to-day challenges? Or do you find relationships difficult? Maybe you are searching for a more meaningful life. I can help with these questions and more. I will facilitate the conditions for you to explore what matters to you, make positive changes and create a fulfilling life according to your values. I will be led by you in terms of the pace and topics we discuss and this can help you learn new ways to cope with day-to-day difficulties.
I can support you if you're experiencing challenges such as relational trauma, anxiety, depression, stress or bereavement, amongst others. Do you feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with life's day-to-day challenges? Or do you find relationships difficult? Maybe you are searching for a more meaningful life. I can help with these questions and more. I will facilitate the conditions for you to explore what matters to you, make positive changes and create a fulfilling life according to your values. I will be led by you in terms of the pace and topics we discuss and this can help you learn new ways to cope with day-to-day difficulties.
01747 448774 View 01747 448774
Photo of Kerry Hatton - New Lanes Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Have you decided it’s time to change and you’re looking for someone to talk to who is going to listen without judgement? I have over 8 years experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Have you decided it’s time to change and you’re looking for someone to talk to who is going to listen without judgement? I have over 8 years experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
01747 441379 View 01747 441379
Photo of Paulina Wojewoda, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Paulina Wojewoda
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Online Only
Are you seeking relief from mental, emotional, and/or physical challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, long term health conditions, ADHD/ autism or impact of general stress?
I provide online therapy services, making healing accessible from the comfort of your home. My expertise includes CBT, DBT, family-based treatment for child and adolescent eating disorders/CBT-E for adults, and somatic therapies such as Yoga Therapy. My integrative approach blends talking therapies with body-based techniques to meet your unique needs.
Are you seeking relief from mental, emotional, and/or physical challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, long term health conditions, ADHD/ autism or impact of general stress?
I provide online therapy services, making healing accessible from the comfort of your home. My expertise includes CBT, DBT, family-based treatment for child and adolescent eating disorders/CBT-E for adults, and somatic therapies such as Yoga Therapy. My integrative approach blends talking therapies with body-based techniques to meet your unique needs.
01275 402936 View 01275 402936
Photo of Clare Kingsbury, Counsellor, MBACP
Clare Kingsbury
Counsellor, MBACP
I also offer parent sessions to learn more about ADHD and autism where that's helpful.
Is anxiety or low mood holding you or your young person back from doing the things you want to do? Do you overthink what people say and question whether you like yourself? Do relationships with friends and loved ones feel difficult? If you want to find more confidence in yourself and your life and learn more about who you are and why you feel or respond in certain ways, I can help. Together we can explore what's going on for you, what you'd like to change, and why. I work with adults and young people to help them find the answers. I have a special interest in neurodivergence. I also offer supervision. Call me to find out more.
I also offer parent sessions to learn more about ADHD and autism where that's helpful.
Is anxiety or low mood holding you or your young person back from doing the things you want to do? Do you overthink what people say and question whether you like yourself? Do relationships with friends and loved ones feel difficult? If you want to find more confidence in yourself and your life and learn more about who you are and why you feel or respond in certain ways, I can help. Together we can explore what's going on for you, what you'd like to change, and why. I work with adults and young people to help them find the answers. I have a special interest in neurodivergence. I also offer supervision. Call me to find out more.
01934 314629 View 01934 314629
Photo of Kirsty Robinson, Counsellor, MBACP
Kirsty Robinson
Counsellor, MBACP
I am a person-centred counsellor offering a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for adults, teenagers, and couples. I believe in working alongside you, at your pace, to explore the challenges you’re facing and help you reconnect with your own strengths and inner resilience. My approach is rooted in empathy and genuine understanding, whether you’re navigating trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, or life transitions. I have experience supporting clients through a range of complex emotions and situations, with a particular focus on trauma and its lasting impact.
I am a person-centred counsellor offering a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for adults, teenagers, and couples. I believe in working alongside you, at your pace, to explore the challenges you’re facing and help you reconnect with your own strengths and inner resilience. My approach is rooted in empathy and genuine understanding, whether you’re navigating trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, or life transitions. I have experience supporting clients through a range of complex emotions and situations, with a particular focus on trauma and its lasting impact.
01934 314499 View 01934 314499
Photo of Paulette Kynanne Montroe - Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Waitlist for new clients
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
01934 311516 View 01934 311516
Photo of Sharon Hewett, Counsellor, BACP
Sharon Hewett
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Hello and a warm welcome! My name is Sharon and I am a fully qualified person-centred counsellor. You may find yourself in need of help and support and have gathered the courage to reach out. Well done for making this step on your therapeutic journey. I am here to listen and support you. You may find that your previous coping strategies are no longer working for you, or you may wish to work through life experiences that have negatively impacted your life. Wherever you find yourself today, I will work with you so that you can explore your obstacles and reach the outcome that you hope to achieve.
Hello and a warm welcome! My name is Sharon and I am a fully qualified person-centred counsellor. You may find yourself in need of help and support and have gathered the courage to reach out. Well done for making this step on your therapeutic journey. I am here to listen and support you. You may find that your previous coping strategies are no longer working for you, or you may wish to work through life experiences that have negatively impacted your life. Wherever you find yourself today, I will work with you so that you can explore your obstacles and reach the outcome that you hope to achieve.
01747 449816 View 01747 449816
Photo of Joanne King, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Joanne King
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
What is art therapy? Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing. Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. Art therapy is provided in groups or individual
What is art therapy? Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing. Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. Art therapy is provided in groups or individual
01275 402827 View 01275 402827
Photo of Stuart Fortoesi-Mason, Psychotherapist
Stuart Fortoesi-Mason
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Have you been the victim of Bullying, Cyber Bullying, Domestic violence, Sexual abuse. Emotional abuse. Trauma caused through your work as Police or Armed forces, or through a Road Traffic Collision. In my experience we go through our lives, being traumatised by various issues, and it slowly weighs us down until it becomes debilitating. Yet within a really short period of time, I can help release you from this pain. I work with young people & adults dealing with mental illness, anxiety, substance issues caused by trauma.
Have you been the victim of Bullying, Cyber Bullying, Domestic violence, Sexual abuse. Emotional abuse. Trauma caused through your work as Police or Armed forces, or through a Road Traffic Collision. In my experience we go through our lives, being traumatised by various issues, and it slowly weighs us down until it becomes debilitating. Yet within a really short period of time, I can help release you from this pain. I work with young people & adults dealing with mental illness, anxiety, substance issues caused by trauma.
01275 402725 View 01275 402725
Photo of Neil Ellis, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Neil Ellis
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Our lives can be, and often are, incredible. However, our lives can sometimes be, and often are, really tough. In those difficult times, we can feel alone with our thoughts and feelings, and subsequently find it really hard to reach out. So, you deserve a massive shout-out for making such a big step forward. Allow yourself the credit you deserve! My role is to provide you with a warm, understanding and non-judgmental space, to help you explore and process whatever has led you to consider therapy, and to support you in achieving what you would like to take away from the experience.
Our lives can be, and often are, incredible. However, our lives can sometimes be, and often are, really tough. In those difficult times, we can feel alone with our thoughts and feelings, and subsequently find it really hard to reach out. So, you deserve a massive shout-out for making such a big step forward. Allow yourself the credit you deserve! My role is to provide you with a warm, understanding and non-judgmental space, to help you explore and process whatever has led you to consider therapy, and to support you in achieving what you would like to take away from the experience.
01747 445546 View 01747 445546
Photo of James Summerhayes, Counsellor, MBACP
James Summerhayes
Counsellor, MBACP
Hello there, I’m James and I am a counsellor offering Friday sessions in the Weston area. Life can be difficult, sometimes traumatic and we often need someone professional to talk to and guide us to find solutions or acceptance to the problems we are facing in a way that best suits us. Whether you're anxious, depressed, stuck, unhappy or lost, I can offer you a confidential and caring space to explore issues that might be keeping you from finding the contentment and happiness you seek. Whatever approach we decide to follow it is important that you leave each session feeling accepted and understood.
Hello there, I’m James and I am a counsellor offering Friday sessions in the Weston area. Life can be difficult, sometimes traumatic and we often need someone professional to talk to and guide us to find solutions or acceptance to the problems we are facing in a way that best suits us. Whether you're anxious, depressed, stuck, unhappy or lost, I can offer you a confidential and caring space to explore issues that might be keeping you from finding the contentment and happiness you seek. Whatever approach we decide to follow it is important that you leave each session feeling accepted and understood.
01275 408864 View 01275 408864
Photo of Robert McCracken, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Robert McCracken
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
I work with transgender and neurodivergent clients, drawing on lived experience as someone who is both ADHD and trans.
I am a straight man who crossdresses, having struggled for many of my 60 years to understand myself. I was dismissed from the RAF after admitting to crossdressing, for which I have endured much shame and guilt. Most of my life I was in the closet, but in the last decade, I've found the courage to be my true self. My journey includes battles with severe depression and a period of homelessness. I have recently come to terms with my diagnosis of ADHD. Now, I am in a loving relationship with a woman who accepts me completely. I hope my story can help others navigate their gender and sexual identity. I love my job.
I work with transgender and neurodivergent clients, drawing on lived experience as someone who is both ADHD and trans.
I am a straight man who crossdresses, having struggled for many of my 60 years to understand myself. I was dismissed from the RAF after admitting to crossdressing, for which I have endured much shame and guilt. Most of my life I was in the closet, but in the last decade, I've found the courage to be my true self. My journey includes battles with severe depression and a period of homelessness. I have recently come to terms with my diagnosis of ADHD. Now, I am in a loving relationship with a woman who accepts me completely. I hope my story can help others navigate their gender and sexual identity. I love my job.
0117 463 7029 View 0117 463 7029
Photo of Rhian Kenny - Rhian Kenny Therapy- CBT, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Rhian Kenny Therapy- CBT
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I adapt our work to your personal needs whilst keeping your goals at the heart of what we do and can also adapt for neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism).
I deliver Cognitive Behavioural Therapy- an evidence-based therapy for anxiety and depression. This includes but is not limited to social anxiety, health anxiety, OCD and intrusive thoughts, phobias (e.g. needles, vomiting) and depression. I draw from other approaches that I’ve trained in (ACT, DBT) ensuring treatment is tailored to your needs.
I adapt our work to your personal needs whilst keeping your goals at the heart of what we do and can also adapt for neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism).
I deliver Cognitive Behavioural Therapy- an evidence-based therapy for anxiety and depression. This includes but is not limited to social anxiety, health anxiety, OCD and intrusive thoughts, phobias (e.g. needles, vomiting) and depression. I draw from other approaches that I’ve trained in (ACT, DBT) ensuring treatment is tailored to your needs.
01225 985714 View 01225 985714
Photo of Chloe Cozzolino, Counsellor, MBACP
Chloe Cozzolino
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Chloe, an Integrative counsellor providing therapy to adults looking for real compassionate support. My own understanding of how hard it can be to ask for help has shaped my belief that effective counselling comes from gentle, supportive, and collaborative work. Using a trauma-informed approach I put your lived experiences at the core of our work, which we can unpick and explore together, at your pace. These experiences could include trauma, relationship issues, feelings of overwhelm, or struggles with addictive behaviours.
Hi, I'm Chloe, an Integrative counsellor providing therapy to adults looking for real compassionate support. My own understanding of how hard it can be to ask for help has shaped my belief that effective counselling comes from gentle, supportive, and collaborative work. Using a trauma-informed approach I put your lived experiences at the core of our work, which we can unpick and explore together, at your pace. These experiences could include trauma, relationship issues, feelings of overwhelm, or struggles with addictive behaviours.
01275 402892 View 01275 402892
Photo of Lizzy Oakley - Blue Amber Counselling, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Blue Amber Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I specialise in working with Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, Autism as well as Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue and many other pain and fatigue related conditions,
I am a qualified Counsellor, Psychotherapist & Supervisor working from my own private practice in Brent Knoll, Somerset. I offer a kind, caring, and confidential counselling service for individuals, children and adolescents, couples, and the elderly. Sessions can be open-ended or arranged for a set time period, depending on your needs. While I primarily work from my therapy room in Brent Knoll, I also offer community-based support and home visits for housebound or disabled clients. In addition to private clients, I accept referrals from outside agencies and employers. I also offer Counselling Supervision.
I specialise in working with Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, Autism as well as Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue and many other pain and fatigue related conditions,
I am a qualified Counsellor, Psychotherapist & Supervisor working from my own private practice in Brent Knoll, Somerset. I offer a kind, caring, and confidential counselling service for individuals, children and adolescents, couples, and the elderly. Sessions can be open-ended or arranged for a set time period, depending on your needs. While I primarily work from my therapy room in Brent Knoll, I also offer community-based support and home visits for housebound or disabled clients. In addition to private clients, I accept referrals from outside agencies and employers. I also offer Counselling Supervision.
01278 760680 View 01278 760680

See more therapy options for Weston-super-Mare

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.