Autism Counselling in Livingston

Photo of Grace McNally, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Grace McNally
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with young people or adults affected by: • Adverse childhood experiences • Relationship difficulties • Self-worth issues • Self-esteem issues • Anxiety • Depression • Suicidal thoughts • Self-harm • Body shame • PTSD • Trauma I provide inclusive support for clients within the LGBTQ+ community, alongside neurodivergent individuals.
Hi, I’m Grace and I’m glad you’re here. I offer open-ended video/telephone therapy at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you. Together we will explore your emotions and experiences. As a humanistic therapist my role is to facilitate a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, feel truly heard, and reconnect with your own sense of self. Whatever you’re navigating I’m here to support you with warmth, respect, and honesty. • Free 15-minute initial consultation • Confidential online video/telephone sessions for adults and children. • Specialised, experienced psychotherapy • Open-ended
I specialise in working with young people or adults affected by: • Adverse childhood experiences • Relationship difficulties • Self-worth issues • Self-esteem issues • Anxiety • Depression • Suicidal thoughts • Self-harm • Body shame • PTSD • Trauma I provide inclusive support for clients within the LGBTQ+ community, alongside neurodivergent individuals.
Hi, I’m Grace and I’m glad you’re here. I offer open-ended video/telephone therapy at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you. Together we will explore your emotions and experiences. As a humanistic therapist my role is to facilitate a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, feel truly heard, and reconnect with your own sense of self. Whatever you’re navigating I’m here to support you with warmth, respect, and honesty. • Free 15-minute initial consultation • Confidential online video/telephone sessions for adults and children. • Specialised, experienced psychotherapy • Open-ended
01506 539562 View 01506 539562
Photo of Amala Eren, MA
Amala Eren
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I work with clients navigating anxiety,depression, stress, or past trauma. Everyone’s life history, experiences, and perspective are unique. I use CBT, strength-based, and compassion-focused and trauma-focused a tailoring support to each person’s needs. My goal is to provide a safe, empowering space to build resilience, gain insight, and foster personal growth. My medical background adds transferable knowledge into the connection between mental and physical wellbeing.I combine professional expertise with warmth, empathy, and respect, helping clients gain insight, develop resilience and achieve personal growth as a therapist.
I work with clients navigating anxiety,depression, stress, or past trauma. Everyone’s life history, experiences, and perspective are unique. I use CBT, strength-based, and compassion-focused and trauma-focused a tailoring support to each person’s needs. My goal is to provide a safe, empowering space to build resilience, gain insight, and foster personal growth. My medical background adds transferable knowledge into the connection between mental and physical wellbeing.I combine professional expertise with warmth, empathy, and respect, helping clients gain insight, develop resilience and achieve personal growth as a therapist.
01506 902017 View 01506 902017
Karen Balfour
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
I have various interests and work extensively with neurodivergent clients.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need a space where we can pause, make sense of our experiences, and feel genuinely heard. I am a Person-Centred Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and NCPS Accredited Professional. I offer a warm, accepting and supportive relationship where you can explore whatever is troubling you without fear of judgement. I believe that when we feel safe enough to be ourselves, we can begin to understand our experiences more deeply, reconnect with our strengths and move towards living more authentically. I supervise both trainee and qualified counsellors and provide external supervision to charities.
I have various interests and work extensively with neurodivergent clients.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need a space where we can pause, make sense of our experiences, and feel genuinely heard. I am a Person-Centred Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and NCPS Accredited Professional. I offer a warm, accepting and supportive relationship where you can explore whatever is troubling you without fear of judgement. I believe that when we feel safe enough to be ourselves, we can begin to understand our experiences more deeply, reconnect with our strengths and move towards living more authentically. I supervise both trainee and qualified counsellors and provide external supervision to charities.
01506 539619 View 01506 539619
Photo of Mairi Rowan - Mairi Rowan Counselling & Therapy (Online & Phone), Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, I'm Mairi - a 49 year old, dog-loving, coffee-drinking counsellor who comes from a wee island in the Hebrides. From my own life experience, I know how daunting and overwhelming it can feel to think about starting counselling, and to try and find the right therapist, and I hope that my down-to-earth and friendly manner will help you feel at ease. I believe that trust and connection are at the heart of successful therapy, and no matter what it is that you are struggling with, I will help you work out what you need from your counselling sessions with me, so that you can work towards living a more fulfilled and contented life.
Hi, I'm Mairi - a 49 year old, dog-loving, coffee-drinking counsellor who comes from a wee island in the Hebrides. From my own life experience, I know how daunting and overwhelming it can feel to think about starting counselling, and to try and find the right therapist, and I hope that my down-to-earth and friendly manner will help you feel at ease. I believe that trust and connection are at the heart of successful therapy, and no matter what it is that you are struggling with, I will help you work out what you need from your counselling sessions with me, so that you can work towards living a more fulfilled and contented life.
01934 311531 View 01934 311531
Photo of Margaret Rose Gibson, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Margaret Rose Gibson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I have experience of working with children in realtion to family issues, school related issues, Trauma and dissociation, ASD and ADHD challenges.
I am an experienced Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, BWRT practitioner and Advanced Clinical Supervisor including Online and Telephone Counselling. I have worked across all age groups in a variety of settings. My counselling, Hypnotherapy and BWRT practice is built opon my practical experience. I also have extensive knowledge and working experience of child development, special educational needs, adult mental health,gender and diveristy and perinatal care .
I have experience of working with children in realtion to family issues, school related issues, Trauma and dissociation, ASD and ADHD challenges.
I am an experienced Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, BWRT practitioner and Advanced Clinical Supervisor including Online and Telephone Counselling. I have worked across all age groups in a variety of settings. My counselling, Hypnotherapy and BWRT practice is built opon my practical experience. I also have extensive knowledge and working experience of child development, special educational needs, adult mental health,gender and diveristy and perinatal care .
01506 243421 View 01506 243421
Photo of Dr Johanna Lind, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Johanna Lind
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Johanna and I'm a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist with 9+ years experience working within mental health settings. My interests lie in working with complex trauma, emotion and nervous system dysregulation, low self-esteem, and stress and burnout. I am passionate about supporting people with their mental health and I am interested in hearing what brought you to where you are today. Through exploring your current difficulties that make it feel like you are stuck, we can work together to help you move forward positively in your life, taking into account your goals, needs, and wants for therapy.
Hi, my name is Johanna and I'm a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist with 9+ years experience working within mental health settings. My interests lie in working with complex trauma, emotion and nervous system dysregulation, low self-esteem, and stress and burnout. I am passionate about supporting people with their mental health and I am interested in hearing what brought you to where you are today. Through exploring your current difficulties that make it feel like you are stuck, we can work together to help you move forward positively in your life, taking into account your goals, needs, and wants for therapy.
0131 381 1702 View 0131 381 1702
Photo of Lilian Yee Lam Lee, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Music Therap.
Lilian Yee Lam Lee
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Music Therap.
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever felt the weight of wanting to help a loved one but not knowing how? Or maybe you’ve felt alone or disappointed as you navigate a challenging journey. Whether you're supporting an older family member with dementia, a child with additional needs, or facing mental health challenges yourself, these moments can feel isolating. I’m here to walk alongside you and offer a pathway of support through music therapy - a therapeutic space where you can feel truly heard and understood.
Have you ever felt the weight of wanting to help a loved one but not knowing how? Or maybe you’ve felt alone or disappointed as you navigate a challenging journey. Whether you're supporting an older family member with dementia, a child with additional needs, or facing mental health challenges yourself, these moments can feel isolating. I’m here to walk alongside you and offer a pathway of support through music therapy - a therapeutic space where you can feel truly heard and understood.
01506 353989 View 01506 353989
Photo of Alison Balfour, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PMCOSCA
Alison Balfour
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PMCOSCA
Not accepting new clients
Would you find it helpful to explore current or past issues that are causing you distress or difficulty? Do you have a history of complex trauma and abuse, or do you struggle with anxiety on a day to day basis? I have over 24years supervised counselling experience of working with complex trauma, addiction and anxiety. I can come alongside you to help you deepen your awareness of your feelings, thoughts and body sensations, working towards a more integrated sense of self. Creating a safe space for you to explore any deeper underlying issues, and working at your pace, are central to my counselling practice.
Would you find it helpful to explore current or past issues that are causing you distress or difficulty? Do you have a history of complex trauma and abuse, or do you struggle with anxiety on a day to day basis? I have over 24years supervised counselling experience of working with complex trauma, addiction and anxiety. I can come alongside you to help you deepen your awareness of your feelings, thoughts and body sensations, working towards a more integrated sense of self. Creating a safe space for you to explore any deeper underlying issues, and working at your pace, are central to my counselling practice.
01506 536830 View 01506 536830
Photo of Jonathan M Stokes, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Jonathan M Stokes
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Not accepting new clients
I have found I am well suited to supporting people who are neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or are part of a marginalised group.
I aim to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the challenges you face before establishing how you can take charge and implement changes in your life. I do this through creating a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore, be heard and where needed be pushed to dig deeper.
I have found I am well suited to supporting people who are neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or are part of a marginalised group.
I aim to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the challenges you face before establishing how you can take charge and implement changes in your life. I do this through creating a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore, be heard and where needed be pushed to dig deeper.
0131 381 4730 View 0131 381 4730

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chelsea McKinnon, Counsellor, MBACP
Chelsea McKinnon
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I work with adults experiencing C-PTSD, anxiety, low self-esteem, burnout, menopause and life transitions, including autistic and neurodivergent clients.
I offer trauma-informed psychotherapy integrating parts work (including IFS-informed approaches), neurodivergent-affirming practice, nature-based therapy, walk-and-talk sessions, and creative approaches. Therapy is tailored to your needs and offered at a pace that feels safe and supportive.
I work with adults experiencing C-PTSD, anxiety, low self-esteem, burnout, menopause and life transitions, including autistic and neurodivergent clients.
I offer trauma-informed psychotherapy integrating parts work (including IFS-informed approaches), neurodivergent-affirming practice, nature-based therapy, walk-and-talk sessions, and creative approaches. Therapy is tailored to your needs and offered at a pace that feels safe and supportive.
01360 602400 View 01360 602400
Photo of Ross Cairns, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Ross Cairns
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Tranent EH33
I have some specialist training in working with Neuro diverse clients and have good experience with Autistic individuals and those with ADHD.
I have worked in General counselling practice for many years and have built up a wealth of experience in many areas.This includes but not limited to Bereavement, Addiction, Relationships. Low Self esteem, obsession and OCD. I specialise in Couples/ Relationship therapy as well as in relaxation and the use of Yoga techniques to allow mind and body to align.
I have some specialist training in working with Neuro diverse clients and have good experience with Autistic individuals and those with ADHD.
I have worked in General counselling practice for many years and have built up a wealth of experience in many areas.This includes but not limited to Bereavement, Addiction, Relationships. Low Self esteem, obsession and OCD. I specialise in Couples/ Relationship therapy as well as in relaxation and the use of Yoga techniques to allow mind and body to align.
01875 444649 View 01875 444649
Photo of Emma Ryland - Emma Ryland Positive About Neurodiversity, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Emma Ryland Positive About Neurodiversity
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
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 draw on counselling, CBT, coaching, ACT & self-compassion techniques, 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 & 25 years in education/ autism outreach, and you’ll be in a space of non-judgement, where you're free to be yourself and 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 draw on counselling, CBT, coaching, ACT & self-compassion techniques, 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 & 25 years in education/ autism outreach, and you’ll be in a space of non-judgement, where you're free to be yourself and acknowledged as the expert on you.
01764 915850 View 01764 915850
Photo of Dr Chrissie Wanner, Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Dr Chrissie Wanner
Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Stow TD1
Free initial online consultation to discuss your needs and how we might work together. I offer safe, steady, calm, warm, and non-judgemental support to work through current or past difficulties that might feel too big or complex to face alone. I'm happy to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life, either online or in person. I'm also happy to work flexibly around childcare and/or work commitments.
Free initial online consultation to discuss your needs and how we might work together. I offer safe, steady, calm, warm, and non-judgemental support to work through current or past difficulties that might feel too big or complex to face alone. I'm happy to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life, either online or in person. I'm also happy to work flexibly around childcare and/or work commitments.
01578 517317 View 01578 517317
Photo of Deborah Marku, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Deborah Marku
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Are you constantly masking your neurodivergence until you feel entirely burnt out, or is your relationship with food and your body dictating your daily peace of mind? If you feel exhausted from trying to hold everything together, you are not alone. I work with a diverse range of clients but find that most of my clients come to me with neurodiversity challenges or disordered eating. These clients wish to learn more about their condition and how this affects them, wishing to explore their concerns and find ways of accepting and/ or implementing strategies to help them more with every day life.
Are you constantly masking your neurodivergence until you feel entirely burnt out, or is your relationship with food and your body dictating your daily peace of mind? If you feel exhausted from trying to hold everything together, you are not alone. I work with a diverse range of clients but find that most of my clients come to me with neurodiversity challenges or disordered eating. These clients wish to learn more about their condition and how this affects them, wishing to explore their concerns and find ways of accepting and/ or implementing strategies to help them more with every day life.
01592 809948 View 01592 809948
Photo of Sara Eydmann, Counsellor, BACP
Sara Eydmann
Counsellor, BACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You might be neurodivergent, or suspect you are; many of my clients are.
I'm a counsellor working online with adults around eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image. I draw on person-centred, psychodynamic, and schema therapy approaches. I'm also openly AuDHD and understand the specific pressures that come with high performance, perfectionism, and masking.
You might be neurodivergent, or suspect you are; many of my clients are.
I'm a counsellor working online with adults around eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image. I draw on person-centred, psychodynamic, and schema therapy approaches. I'm also openly AuDHD and understand the specific pressures that come with high performance, perfectionism, and masking.
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Photo of Dr Zoe Fyffe - Dr Zoe Fyffe, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Zoe Fyffe
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I have particular interest and expertise working with people who are, or who think they may be, neurodivergent, and in adapting therapy to be more accessible, supportive and successful for my clients.
I bring a range of therapy models to my work, focusing on what is most suited to each client. I have an interest in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy and systemic approaches.
I have particular interest and expertise working with people who are, or who think they may be, neurodivergent, and in adapting therapy to be more accessible, supportive and successful for my clients.
I bring a range of therapy models to my work, focusing on what is most suited to each client. I have an interest in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy and systemic approaches.
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Photo of Paul Frew, Psychotherapist
Paul Frew
Psychotherapist
2 Endorsed
I specialize in anxiety-based issues, like social anxiety, phobias, panic, and more, as well as autism and neurodivergence, supporting clients in understanding and embracing their unique ways of being.
Many people come to therapy feeling like they don’t quite fit in. My goal is to make therapy fit you. With both clinical training and lived experience of neurodiversity, I specialize in helping people manage anxiety, build confidence, and feel more at ease being their authentic selves. Offering a space where your experiences and perspectives are understood and respected. Face-to face sessions held at: Lanarkshire Counselling and CBT Centre - (LCCC) 20 Saint John Street Coatbridge ML5 3EJ
I specialize in anxiety-based issues, like social anxiety, phobias, panic, and more, as well as autism and neurodivergence, supporting clients in understanding and embracing their unique ways of being.
Many people come to therapy feeling like they don’t quite fit in. My goal is to make therapy fit you. With both clinical training and lived experience of neurodiversity, I specialize in helping people manage anxiety, build confidence, and feel more at ease being their authentic selves. Offering a space where your experiences and perspectives are understood and respected. Face-to face sessions held at: Lanarkshire Counselling and CBT Centre - (LCCC) 20 Saint John Street Coatbridge ML5 3EJ
01698 701244 View 01698 701244
Photo of Zaid Al-Nayazi, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Zaid Al-Nayazi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
3 Endorsed
If you’re neurodivergent, from a mixed or migrant background, or just carrying more than people realise, you might know that feeling well.
I work relationally and person-centred, which means: • I don’t push an agenda or tell you who you should become • I follow your pace, not the fastest or the one you think you should be at • I’m attentive to culture, identity, power, and the ways we learn to survive • I hold space for complexity, contradiction, and all the parts you’ve had to hide
If you’re neurodivergent, from a mixed or migrant background, or just carrying more than people realise, you might know that feeling well.
I work relationally and person-centred, which means: • I don’t push an agenda or tell you who you should become • I follow your pace, not the fastest or the one you think you should be at • I’m attentive to culture, identity, power, and the ways we learn to survive • I hold space for complexity, contradiction, and all the parts you’ve had to hide
0131 381 6580 View 0131 381 6580
Photo of Claire Murdoch, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Claire Murdoch
Counsellor, MCOSCA
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH14
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.
01506 539589 View 01506 539589
Photo of Leeanne McKenna, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Leeanne McKenna
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Serves Area
I specialise in working with people who are Autistic and/or ADHD and always strive to work in a neuro-affirming way.
As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your unique preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
I specialise in working with people who are Autistic and/or ADHD and always strive to work in a neuro-affirming way.
As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your unique preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
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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.