Autism Counselling in Edinburgh
In addition to my degrees, I have been on various courses on neurodivergence and related issues (equality, trauma, etc.) Similarly, I have decades of experience working with neurodivergent people of different ages, most recently as a senior clinician at CAMHS and a Senior Advisor at Scottish Autism.
Hi, I'm Kirsti, an autistic Art Psychotherapist (HCPC and BAAT reg.). I offer neuro- and LGBTQIA+ affirming, warm, safe, trauma informed and empowering counselling and art psychotherapy to neurodivergent people over 12 (no diagnosis required). I also offer advice on the parenting of neurodivergent children/young people. My clients often feel very anxious and overstimulated, which can result in low mood, as well as meltdowns and shutdowns.
Neurodivergent people tend to struggle with relationships. They are also likely to have been traumatised and isolated. However, with the right support, any situation can be changed for the better.
In addition to my degrees, I have been on various courses on neurodivergence and related issues (equality, trauma, etc.) Similarly, I have decades of experience working with neurodivergent people of different ages, most recently as a senior clinician at CAMHS and a Senior Advisor at Scottish Autism.
Hi, I'm Kirsti, an autistic Art Psychotherapist (HCPC and BAAT reg.). I offer neuro- and LGBTQIA+ affirming, warm, safe, trauma informed and empowering counselling and art psychotherapy to neurodivergent people over 12 (no diagnosis required). I also offer advice on the parenting of neurodivergent children/young people. My clients often feel very anxious and overstimulated, which can result in low mood, as well as meltdowns and shutdowns.
Neurodivergent people tend to struggle with relationships. They are also likely to have been traumatised and isolated. However, with the right support, any situation can be changed for the better.
My specialisms include working with neurodivergent children and young adults ( Autism, ADHD, LD, ID, FASD+) in neuro-affirming ways,
LGBTQIA+ children, adults and families,
CYP who have experiences of complex trauma and abuse,
Specialized knowledge of children and adults who have left cults/high demand groups
Hello, my name is Tara (They/she) & I go by T! I'm an Integrative Art psychotherapist dedicated to improving the lives of marginalized young people and adults. My approach is neuro-affirming with a strong anti-oppressive and trauma informed base. I'm a proud AuDHD, Non-binary, bi and polyamorous therapist.
I value the power of lived experience informing best clinical practise; by accessing therapists who can truly see, understand, and affirm us. I work with clients to build relational safety so that we can explore the impact of experiences, on their inner world.
My specialisms include working with neurodivergent children and young adults ( Autism, ADHD, LD, ID, FASD+) in neuro-affirming ways,
LGBTQIA+ children, adults and families,
CYP who have experiences of complex trauma and abuse,
Specialized knowledge of children and adults who have left cults/high demand groups
Hello, my name is Tara (They/she) & I go by T! I'm an Integrative Art psychotherapist dedicated to improving the lives of marginalized young people and adults. My approach is neuro-affirming with a strong anti-oppressive and trauma informed base. I'm a proud AuDHD, Non-binary, bi and polyamorous therapist.
I value the power of lived experience informing best clinical practise; by accessing therapists who can truly see, understand, and affirm us. I work with clients to build relational safety so that we can explore the impact of experiences, on their inner world.
If you're newly diagnosed (or self-diagnosed) with autism or ADHD, I can help you explore your past, present and future with the diagnosis.
There's not one best way to have therapy. Some clients prefer a regular weekly session in my cosy room, with my dog Bella present. Other clients need flexibility, whether that's around the frequency of the sessions or how they take place - face to face, online, outdoors or by email. I work Monday to Thursday. Waiting list for evening sessions at present.
If you're newly diagnosed (or self-diagnosed) with autism or ADHD, I can help you explore your past, present and future with the diagnosis.
There's not one best way to have therapy. Some clients prefer a regular weekly session in my cosy room, with my dog Bella present. Other clients need flexibility, whether that's around the frequency of the sessions or how they take place - face to face, online, outdoors or by email. I work Monday to Thursday. Waiting list for evening sessions at present.
Working in settings such as schools, NHS, hospice settings and a carers organisation my specialities include (but are not limited to) bereavement/grief counselling, autism, dementia and counselling teenagers in High School.
Seeking counselling can feel like a big step. Perhaps a confusing one. Let me tell you a little about myself so that you can decide if I am the right counsellor for you. I have a COSCA accredited Diploma in Person Centred counselling meaning that I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I have a creative, eclectic approach and can bring other models into the counselling room where appropriate such as CBT, small world, gestalt and even music. At the moment I offer on-line and telephone counselling, however, post pandemic would also offer outdoor walking therapy.
Working in settings such as schools, NHS, hospice settings and a carers organisation my specialities include (but are not limited to) bereavement/grief counselling, autism, dementia and counselling teenagers in High School.
Seeking counselling can feel like a big step. Perhaps a confusing one. Let me tell you a little about myself so that you can decide if I am the right counsellor for you. I have a COSCA accredited Diploma in Person Centred counselling meaning that I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I have a creative, eclectic approach and can bring other models into the counselling room where appropriate such as CBT, small world, gestalt and even music. At the moment I offer on-line and telephone counselling, however, post pandemic would also offer outdoor walking therapy.
Have you or someone you care about recently received an autism or ADHD diagnosis and you’re having complicated feelings, not sure what to do now?
I use a combination of counselling, CBT therapy and coaching and I’ll meet you just as you are, so we can work together in ways that suit you. I’ll draw on my own experience of neurodivergence and 25 years in education and autism outreach, and you’ll be in a space of non-judgement, where you’re free to be yourself and are acknowledged as the expert on you.
Have you or someone you care about recently received an autism or ADHD diagnosis and you’re having complicated feelings, not sure what to do now?
I use a combination of counselling, CBT therapy and coaching and I’ll meet you just as you are, so we can work together in ways that suit you. I’ll draw on my own experience of neurodivergence and 25 years in education and autism outreach, and you’ll be in a space of non-judgement, where you’re free to be yourself and are acknowledged as the expert on you.
Maybe you are dealing with being neuro-diverse (ADHD or autism) in a neuro-typical world?
I have helped many people who are struggling with stress, lack of self-esteem, loneliness, anxiety, depression, social anxiety, isolation or trauma. I work with a number of people who are neuro-diverse, especially ADHD and autism. I listen, reflect, support and help you to find coping strategies and ways forward, or to heal from traumatic experiences.
Maybe you are dealing with being neuro-diverse (ADHD or autism) in a neuro-typical world?
I have helped many people who are struggling with stress, lack of self-esteem, loneliness, anxiety, depression, social anxiety, isolation or trauma. I work with a number of people who are neuro-diverse, especially ADHD and autism. I listen, reflect, support and help you to find coping strategies and ways forward, or to heal from traumatic experiences.
I support individuals navigating self-discovery around neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, and exploration of gender identity and sexuality too.
Do you need help untangling things? Maybe you are feeling a little lost, stuck or misunderstood? Or perhaps you are feeling low or anxious or even full of rage? Maybe you are struggling with identity, sense of self or your relationships? You might have even tried therapy before, but something wasn’t quite right? Or perhaps you are struggling with your health, eating or body image and would like an easier relationship with food, eating and your body? Then I may be able to help.
I support individuals navigating self-discovery around neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, and exploration of gender identity and sexuality too.
Do you need help untangling things? Maybe you are feeling a little lost, stuck or misunderstood? Or perhaps you are feeling low or anxious or even full of rage? Maybe you are struggling with identity, sense of self or your relationships? You might have even tried therapy before, but something wasn’t quite right? Or perhaps you are struggling with your health, eating or body image and would like an easier relationship with food, eating and your body? Then I may be able to help.
As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.
I am a specialist in Neurodivergence. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I have experience of complex Mental Health problems and Personality Disorder. I also offer training and workplace coaching for Neurodivergent individuals.
As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.
I am a specialist in Neurodivergence. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I have experience of complex Mental Health problems and Personality Disorder. I also offer training and workplace coaching for Neurodivergent individuals.
Are you looking for some support or an ADHD and autism diagnosis and assessment?
I am also particularly passionate about working in the areas of health management, neurodivergence, women's health and LGBT+ individuals. My therapeutic approach is informed by my training as a HCPC Chartered Health Psychologist, where I specialise in considering your health and wellbeing. I deliver therapy with a heart at all times.
Are you looking for some support or an ADHD and autism diagnosis and assessment?
I am also particularly passionate about working in the areas of health management, neurodivergence, women's health and LGBT+ individuals. My therapeutic approach is informed by my training as a HCPC Chartered Health Psychologist, where I specialise in considering your health and wellbeing. I deliver therapy with a heart at all times.
Many people I work with navigate the intersection of Autism, ADHD, AuDHD and adversity, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
I support my clients in making sense of their experiences through both a trauma and neurodivergence-informed lens. This might include exploring the meaning of their autism and/or ADHD, reflecting on their identity, processing the cost of chronic masking, and reconnecting with parts of themselves that have been hidden or silenced to survive.
Many people I work with navigate the intersection of Autism, ADHD, AuDHD and adversity, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
I support my clients in making sense of their experiences through both a trauma and neurodivergence-informed lens. This might include exploring the meaning of their autism and/or ADHD, reflecting on their identity, processing the cost of chronic masking, and reconnecting with parts of themselves that have been hidden or silenced to survive.
My 16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in 2021 in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
I qualified in 2008, after a 12 month NHS placement and MSc in Psychological Therapy, accredited by the British Psychological Society. I'm experienced in several therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), mindfulness, person-centred counselling, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
My 16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in 2021 in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
I qualified in 2008, after a 12 month NHS placement and MSc in Psychological Therapy, accredited by the British Psychological Society. I'm experienced in several therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), mindfulness, person-centred counselling, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I specialise in couples therapy and in neurodiversity - specifically autism and ADHD.
For sure, life can get complicated. Health, finances, relationships, career, family, fitness and unexpected change – more than ever before upsets in these areas can impact our ability to think clearly and move confidently through our day. Clients come to see me when they want fast, effective new outcomes for depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement and relationship re-thinks.
I specialise in couples therapy and in neurodiversity - specifically autism and ADHD.
For sure, life can get complicated. Health, finances, relationships, career, family, fitness and unexpected change – more than ever before upsets in these areas can impact our ability to think clearly and move confidently through our day. Clients come to see me when they want fast, effective new outcomes for depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement and relationship re-thinks.
Are you looking for an adult ADHD assessment or Autism assessment in Glasgow or the UK?
We offer ADHD and Autism assessments (in 2025) in Glasgow city centre, and also remotely to the whole of the UK. We are experts in neurodivergence, and have specifically created an accessible service. We also provide coaching and therapy for ADHD, autism, and multi-neurodivergence. Unfortunately, we do not have space at the moment for therapy or coaching.
Are you looking for an adult ADHD assessment or Autism assessment in Glasgow or the UK?
We offer ADHD and Autism assessments (in 2025) in Glasgow city centre, and also remotely to the whole of the UK. We are experts in neurodivergence, and have specifically created an accessible service. We also provide coaching and therapy for ADHD, autism, and multi-neurodivergence. Unfortunately, we do not have space at the moment for therapy or coaching.
Or perhaps you suspect your loved one has a condition like Autism or ADHD- maybe they were recently diagnosed.
I specialise in helping parents and neurodivergent people understand the function of challenging behaviour. I use tried and tested strategies, adapted especially for people who are "different" to help neurodivergent people reduce behaviours that challenge. My approach is gentle and nurturing and prioritises the attachment bond.
Or perhaps you suspect your loved one has a condition like Autism or ADHD- maybe they were recently diagnosed.
I specialise in helping parents and neurodivergent people understand the function of challenging behaviour. I use tried and tested strategies, adapted especially for people who are "different" to help neurodivergent people reduce behaviours that challenge. My approach is gentle and nurturing and prioritises the attachment bond.
Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I divide my time between an NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults.
I work with individuals, couples & groups, drawing on a range of approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, coaching, psychoeducation, neuropsychology, Social Thinking, Zones of Regulation and CBT for ADHD to improve clients' experience of living in a neurotypical world.
I divide my time between an NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults.
I work with individuals, couples & groups, drawing on a range of approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, coaching, psychoeducation, neuropsychology, Social Thinking, Zones of Regulation and CBT for ADHD to improve clients' experience of living in a neurotypical world.
I also support neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD or autism, who may feel exhausted by pressure, masking or trying to fit in.
I know life gets busy. That’s why I offer online sessions with flexible times, including evenings and weekends, to fit your schedule. Whether you’re a student, professional or leader, I work with most major insurers and tailor every session to your needs and goals.
I also support neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD or autism, who may feel exhausted by pressure, masking or trying to fit in.
I know life gets busy. That’s why I offer online sessions with flexible times, including evenings and weekends, to fit your schedule. Whether you’re a student, professional or leader, I work with most major insurers and tailor every session to your needs and goals.
I especially enjoy supporting individuals dealing with ADHD, Autism, navigating questions of identity and sexuality, or struggling with work stress and burnout.
I have experience working both in a time-limited short-term way and in offering longer-term therapy. Throughout my career, I've supported people with a wide range of challenges, working with NHS referrals, employment services, and the charity sector. I offer online sessions in English and Polish.
I especially enjoy supporting individuals dealing with ADHD, Autism, navigating questions of identity and sexuality, or struggling with work stress and burnout.
I have experience working both in a time-limited short-term way and in offering longer-term therapy. Throughout my career, I've supported people with a wide range of challenges, working with NHS referrals, employment services, and the charity sector. I offer online sessions in English and Polish.
I also offer psychotherapy to children and young people suffering from depression, who have a diagnosis of autism.
I specialise in psychodynamic treatments for mental illness in children and adolescents. My approach is informed by attachment research, psychodynamic theory and developmental neuroscience. I believe that effective psychotherapy can take time, and that children and young people require adequate space to feel comfortable exploring their difficulties.
I also offer psychotherapy to children and young people suffering from depression, who have a diagnosis of autism.
I specialise in psychodynamic treatments for mental illness in children and adolescents. My approach is informed by attachment research, psychodynamic theory and developmental neuroscience. I believe that effective psychotherapy can take time, and that children and young people require adequate space to feel comfortable exploring their difficulties.
Alongside therapy, I offer mindfulness training, and executive function coaching for people with Autism (ASD), ADHD, or anyone who wants to feel more focused, calm, and in control of their daily lives.
You might be experiencing problems in relationships, work and health and feel overwhelmed. Understanding your relationship with substances & behaviours is key and often the root of cause lies in the past. I'll work with you to explore the origins of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, relating to others, unresolved trauma, and feelings of anxiety & depression.
Alongside therapy, I offer mindfulness training, and executive function coaching for people with Autism (ASD), ADHD, or anyone who wants to feel more focused, calm, and in control of their daily lives.
You might be experiencing problems in relationships, work and health and feel overwhelmed. Understanding your relationship with substances & behaviours is key and often the root of cause lies in the past. I'll work with you to explore the origins of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, relating to others, unresolved trauma, and feelings of anxiety & depression.
With over 17 years of experience working alongside children with autism and their families, I bring a deep understanding and empathy to our sessions.
I specialize in helping parents reconnect with themselves and rediscover a sense of calm and joy. At Reconnect Counselling, I offer tailored counselling and psychotherapy services for individual and couples. Whether you're navigating parenthood, struggling with anxiety or depression, facing relationship issues, or coping with the loss of a miscarriage, I’m here to support you. Together, we can explore your thoughts and emotions, helping you reconnect with the parts of yourself that you may feel have been lost. My approach is grounded in compassion, empowerment, and a belief that change is possible.
With over 17 years of experience working alongside children with autism and their families, I bring a deep understanding and empathy to our sessions.
I specialize in helping parents reconnect with themselves and rediscover a sense of calm and joy. At Reconnect Counselling, I offer tailored counselling and psychotherapy services for individual and couples. Whether you're navigating parenthood, struggling with anxiety or depression, facing relationship issues, or coping with the loss of a miscarriage, I’m here to support you. Together, we can explore your thoughts and emotions, helping you reconnect with the parts of yourself that you may feel have been lost. My approach is grounded in compassion, empowerment, and a belief that change is possible.
See more therapy options for Edinburgh
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Edinburgh
- Cupar
- Dalkeith
- Dunfermline
- Falkirk
- Glenrothes
- Haddington
- Kirkcaldy
- Livingston
- Motherwell
- Musselburgh
- North Berwick
- St Andrews
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.