Autism Counselling in Melrose

Dr Chrissie Wanner
Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
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
Maureen Biggar
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PMCOSCA
Serves Area
I am an experienced psychotherapist working with people of all ages, to help them towards finding a more fulfilling way of life. My style of working is based on the building up of a trusting and open relationship between us, which is the basis for all our therapeutic work. I believe our experiences as children, whether good or bad, affect us throughout our lives; and by being given the time and space to 'tell our story', we develop more insight into why we are the way we are. These insights then guide us towards finding ways to change what we want to change, and value those qualities in ourselves that are beneficial.
I am an experienced psychotherapist working with people of all ages, to help them towards finding a more fulfilling way of life. My style of working is based on the building up of a trusting and open relationship between us, which is the basis for all our therapeutic work. I believe our experiences as children, whether good or bad, affect us throughout our lives; and by being given the time and space to 'tell our story', we develop more insight into why we are the way we are. These insights then guide us towards finding ways to change what we want to change, and value those qualities in ourselves that are beneficial.
01556 512048 View 01556 512048
John Wenger
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
I am also a gay autistic man and understand how profoundly important it is to be met with affirmation and curiosity, no matter how we are in the world.
I am a fully trained psychotherapist (MBACP Reg. & MNCPS Acc.) and clinical supervisor with more than two decades experience. When life feels a little out of balance, it's important that we find our own answers to the things that concern us about our lives. It's also important that we do this in a way that suits our preferences, our needs and our styles. Whether weathering a storm in life, getting to heart of some old patterns that no longer serve us, exploring meaning in our lives or coming to terms with loss, psychotherapy can help us to develop greater self-esteem, resilience and self-compassion.
I am also a gay autistic man and understand how profoundly important it is to be met with affirmation and curiosity, no matter how we are in the world.
I am a fully trained psychotherapist (MBACP Reg. & MNCPS Acc.) and clinical supervisor with more than two decades experience. When life feels a little out of balance, it's important that we find our own answers to the things that concern us about our lives. It's also important that we do this in a way that suits our preferences, our needs and our styles. Whether weathering a storm in life, getting to heart of some old patterns that no longer serve us, exploring meaning in our lives or coming to terms with loss, psychotherapy can help us to develop greater self-esteem, resilience and self-compassion.
023 8214 9355 View 023 8214 9355
Grace Lee-Scott
Psychotherapist, MSc
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Grace (she/they), and I'm an integrative psychotherapist working primarily with women. My practice is rooted in anti-oppressive values, ensuring a safe and welcoming space that focuses on you and what you need. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, feeling weighed down by people-pleasing, struggling with negative self-image, or grappling with suppressed anger and cultural pressures, you don’t have to manage in silence. In our sessions, we’ll work together to create a supportive, collaborative relationship where your voice always matters. Here, we can approach issues to unpack influence, understand impact, and heal from hurt.
Hi, I’m Grace (she/they), and I'm an integrative psychotherapist working primarily with women. My practice is rooted in anti-oppressive values, ensuring a safe and welcoming space that focuses on you and what you need. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, feeling weighed down by people-pleasing, struggling with negative self-image, or grappling with suppressed anger and cultural pressures, you don’t have to manage in silence. In our sessions, we’ll work together to create a supportive, collaborative relationship where your voice always matters. Here, we can approach issues to unpack influence, understand impact, and heal from hurt.
020 4634 6014 View 020 4634 6014

More Therapists Nearby

Emma Ryland Positive About Neurodiversity
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
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
Sandy Blair
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
Whether you’re navigating grief, anxiety, low mood, or looking for neuro‑affirming support as a neurodivergent person, I’m here to help you build self‑awareness and move toward meaningful change.
There’s not one best way to have therapy. Some clients enjoy a regular weekly session in my cosy room, often with my dog Bella keeping us company. Others prefer more flexibility, whether that’s adjusting the frequency of sessions or choosing a format that suits them best, including face‑to‑face, online, or outdoor therapy. I work daytime Monday to Wednesday.
Whether you’re navigating grief, anxiety, low mood, or looking for neuro‑affirming support as a neurodivergent person, I’m here to help you build self‑awareness and move toward meaningful change.
There’s not one best way to have therapy. Some clients enjoy a regular weekly session in my cosy room, often with my dog Bella keeping us company. Others prefer more flexibility, whether that’s adjusting the frequency of sessions or choosing a format that suits them best, including face‑to‑face, online, or outdoor therapy. I work daytime Monday to Wednesday.
0131 381 8430 View 0131 381 8430
Devona Jet Hollins
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I have 15 years of specialist experience in the areas of loss, grief , neurodivergence, ADHD/ Autism , brain injury and relationships
As an Accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor providing bespoke support through Counselling, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy, I work with adults, young people and children. My approach is pluralistic, which means my training draws from various classic approaches and uses them together in response to the uniqueness of each client and their needs collaboratively . This style of therapy enables us to work flexibly and effectively with the past, present and the future. As your therapist I offer a safe, confidential setting allowing a person to talk about their feelings, needs and goals, all whilst carefully navigating any distress.
I have 15 years of specialist experience in the areas of loss, grief , neurodivergence, ADHD/ Autism , brain injury and relationships
As an Accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor providing bespoke support through Counselling, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy, I work with adults, young people and children. My approach is pluralistic, which means my training draws from various classic approaches and uses them together in response to the uniqueness of each client and their needs collaboratively . This style of therapy enables us to work flexibly and effectively with the past, present and the future. As your therapist I offer a safe, confidential setting allowing a person to talk about their feelings, needs and goals, all whilst carefully navigating any distress.
0161 524 6539 View 0161 524 6539
Camilla Ferraro
Psychotherapist, MBACP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
The therapeutic services I offer are neurodivergent-affirming, trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirmative, gender inclusive and weight neutral.
There are many reasons to start therapy. Perhaps you are feeling a little lost, stuck or misunderstood? Maybe you are struggling with identity, sense of self or your relationships? You might have recently realised you are neurodivergent and are wanting affirming support to explore this? Or perhaps you are struggling with your eating and body image.
The therapeutic services I offer are neurodivergent-affirming, trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirmative, gender inclusive and weight neutral.
There are many reasons to start therapy. Perhaps you are feeling a little lost, stuck or misunderstood? Maybe you are struggling with identity, sense of self or your relationships? You might have recently realised you are neurodivergent and are wanting affirming support to explore this? Or perhaps you are struggling with your eating and body image.
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Caroline Toshack
Counsellor, MBACP
I am neuro-affirmative and experienced in supporting autistic, ADHD, or neurodivergent clients, understanding how these differences can intersect with eating and body challenges.
I believe eating difficulties develop for understandable reasons — often as ways of coping with emotions, life pressures, or internal expectations. Therapy provides a space to explore these patterns safely, understand what’s driving them, and begin to develop more sustainable ways of relating to food, your body and yourself.
I am neuro-affirmative and experienced in supporting autistic, ADHD, or neurodivergent clients, understanding how these differences can intersect with eating and body challenges.
I believe eating difficulties develop for understandable reasons — often as ways of coping with emotions, life pressures, or internal expectations. Therapy provides a space to explore these patterns safely, understand what’s driving them, and begin to develop more sustainable ways of relating to food, your body and yourself.
01875 440527 View 01875 440527
Louise Fisher
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Mental health struggles are on the rise, impacting young adults, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), and those affected by domestic abuse.
My services include: • Supporting parents of young adults with ASD and social/learning challenges • Helping young adults with ASD build resilience and manage behaviours • Providing therapeutic tutoring for individuals facing barriers to mainstream education • Offering specialized support for care leavers, foster carers, and teens in care, focusing on emotion
Mental health struggles are on the rise, impacting young adults, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), and those affected by domestic abuse.
My services include: • Supporting parents of young adults with ASD and social/learning challenges • Helping young adults with ASD build resilience and manage behaviours • Providing therapeutic tutoring for individuals facing barriers to mainstream education • Offering specialized support for care leavers, foster carers, and teens in care, focusing on emotion
01704 336302 View 01704 336302
Kirti Lawrence
Psychotherapist, ACP
1 Endorsed
Having worked across sectors with children and families such as Early Years, Education, Health, Social Work and the Third Sector for over 24 years, I offer highly specialized trauma-focused, attachment-based psychotherapy treatment to children (pre-school to 12 years) and adolescents (12 to 19 years) and young adults (19 to 25 years) with moderate to severe mental health difficulties. Additionally, I have over 13 years’ experience in working with children and young people who are looked after and accommodated.
Having worked across sectors with children and families such as Early Years, Education, Health, Social Work and the Third Sector for over 24 years, I offer highly specialized trauma-focused, attachment-based psychotherapy treatment to children (pre-school to 12 years) and adolescents (12 to 19 years) and young adults (19 to 25 years) with moderate to severe mental health difficulties. Additionally, I have over 13 years’ experience in working with children and young people who are looked after and accommodated.
0131 381 5844 View 0131 381 5844
Lynn Hogarth
Counsellor, PsychD, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Autism & Trauma Informed Practitioner in Midlothian.
Psychotherapy is also referred to as talk therapy and is a phrase for a variety of treatment techniques which are aimed to help a person identify and change worrisome emotions, thoughts, feelings, difficult behaviours and patterns. By reflecting and working with a clients past can help recognise the impact this may have on their present and future.
Autism & Trauma Informed Practitioner in Midlothian.
Psychotherapy is also referred to as talk therapy and is a phrase for a variety of treatment techniques which are aimed to help a person identify and change worrisome emotions, thoughts, feelings, difficult behaviours and patterns. By reflecting and working with a clients past can help recognise the impact this may have on their present and future.
01875 440621 View 01875 440621
Dani Rose Spencer
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in autism and ADHD, in particular, those who discovered their neurodiversity later in life.
My practice is trauma informed and grounded in a humanistic framework, supporting your autonomy and individuality. You are the expert on your own experience, as no one else truly knows what it's like to be you. Whether you're self-diagnosed, mis-diagnosed, diagnosed or unsure, I hold the space for you to discover yourself at your own pace.
I specialise in autism and ADHD, in particular, those who discovered their neurodiversity later in life.
My practice is trauma informed and grounded in a humanistic framework, supporting your autonomy and individuality. You are the expert on your own experience, as no one else truly knows what it's like to be you. Whether you're self-diagnosed, mis-diagnosed, diagnosed or unsure, I hold the space for you to discover yourself at your own pace.
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Freya McKenzie
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Serves Area
I specialise in ADHD, autism and anxiety and am always striving to offer neuro-affirming support.
I support children aged 3-13 with social, emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Seeking therapy can be daunting, but I aim to offer a safe, supportive environment where children can work through their difficulties at a pace that suits them. Play Therapy is a gentle, child-led approach that creates lasting long-term skills. By offering early support to children we give them the best possible chance of thriving, and prevent their difficulties from worsening over time.
I specialise in ADHD, autism and anxiety and am always striving to offer neuro-affirming support.
I support children aged 3-13 with social, emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Seeking therapy can be daunting, but I aim to offer a safe, supportive environment where children can work through their difficulties at a pace that suits them. Play Therapy is a gentle, child-led approach that creates lasting long-term skills. By offering early support to children we give them the best possible chance of thriving, and prevent their difficulties from worsening over time.
01934 317089 View 01934 317089
Paula Ferguson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Online Only
All of us reach points in life where talking to someone outside our usual support network can make a real difference. If you’re facing something that feels difficult to share with others, or if you’re simply unsure where to begin, I’m here to offer a calm and confidential space to explore what’s going on for you. I support people with many different experiences, including anxiety, low mood, emotional overwhelm, bereavement, relationship challenges, questions around sexuality or gender, life transitions, and moments of feeling stuck or uncertain. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
All of us reach points in life where talking to someone outside our usual support network can make a real difference. If you’re facing something that feels difficult to share with others, or if you’re simply unsure where to begin, I’m here to offer a calm and confidential space to explore what’s going on for you. I support people with many different experiences, including anxiety, low mood, emotional overwhelm, bereavement, relationship challenges, questions around sexuality or gender, life transitions, and moments of feeling stuck or uncertain. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
01934 914049 View 01934 914049
Sarah Page
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
As a neurodivergent practitioner, I have a particular passion for working with children and young people on the autism spectrum, and can support you to express yourself, understand your emotions and experiences, and build meaningful relationships with yourself and others.
I offer a warm and non-judgemental space where you can explore difficult emotions, reduce feelings of isolation, build self-trust, and reconnect with a sense of hope and understanding. I have worked with people facing many different challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, PTSD, gender identity, addiction, attachment difficulties, and the emotional impact of dementia or Alzheimer’s. At the heart of my practice is a belief in the healing power of creativity and the importance of being truly seen and heard.
As a neurodivergent practitioner, I have a particular passion for working with children and young people on the autism spectrum, and can support you to express yourself, understand your emotions and experiences, and build meaningful relationships with yourself and others.
I offer a warm and non-judgemental space where you can explore difficult emotions, reduce feelings of isolation, build self-trust, and reconnect with a sense of hope and understanding. I have worked with people facing many different challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, PTSD, gender identity, addiction, attachment difficulties, and the emotional impact of dementia or Alzheimer’s. At the heart of my practice is a belief in the healing power of creativity and the importance of being truly seen and heard.
0131 381 3563 View 0131 381 3563
Katrina Cummings
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Dalkeith EH22
Hi, I’m Katrina. I support clients who seek counselling for a range of reasons, including but not limited to, domestic abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety and burnout. My work is about empowering you, I do not come with a set agenda or any things you ‘should’ do, I provide a space where you can be yourself as you are, free from the judgement and pressures of daily life. Whatever brings you to counselling, I support you to explore and process your experiences, my focus is on providing a supportive and safe relationship in which we can find the way forward that is right for you.
Hi, I’m Katrina. I support clients who seek counselling for a range of reasons, including but not limited to, domestic abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety and burnout. My work is about empowering you, I do not come with a set agenda or any things you ‘should’ do, I provide a space where you can be yourself as you are, free from the judgement and pressures of daily life. Whatever brings you to counselling, I support you to explore and process your experiences, my focus is on providing a supportive and safe relationship in which we can find the way forward that is right for you.
0131 381 4367 View 0131 381 4367
Louise Duffy
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I have worked with many people with co-occurring autism and mental health difficulties and my work includes post diagnostic support.
I am trained in several Psychological Models including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (tf-CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT. I work to integrate these different approaches to suit the needs of each individual or family.
I have worked with many people with co-occurring autism and mental health difficulties and my work includes post diagnostic support.
I am trained in several Psychological Models including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (tf-CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT. I work to integrate these different approaches to suit the needs of each individual or family.
0131 381 5339 View 0131 381 5339
Bryn Morin
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Edinburgh EH16
You might not be entirely sure what you’re looking for in a therapist. Maybe previous therapy hasn’t taken you as far as you’d hoped, or the sheer amount of choice feels overwhelming. Finding the right therapeutic relationship often matters more than any single approach. I won’t be the right therapist for everyone. But if something here resonates, that's a good sign that we could do meaningful work together. My focus is helping you reconnect with your instincts through collaboration, exploration, and a therapeutic relationship grounded in safety and trust.
You might not be entirely sure what you’re looking for in a therapist. Maybe previous therapy hasn’t taken you as far as you’d hoped, or the sheer amount of choice feels overwhelming. Finding the right therapeutic relationship often matters more than any single approach. I won’t be the right therapist for everyone. But if something here resonates, that's a good sign that we could do meaningful work together. My focus is helping you reconnect with your instincts through collaboration, exploration, and a therapeutic relationship grounded in safety and trust.
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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.