Autism Counselling in Balbriggan

Photo of Tara O'Donnell-Killen, Psychologist, MSc, MBPsS
Tara O'Donnell-Killen
Psychologist, MSc, MBPsS
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I offer highly personalised, deeply integrative support for a small number of individuals and families navigating life after a neurodivergent identification (e.g. Autistic, ADHD).
At present, I only accept new clients through direct referral. If you feel strongly drawn to this work, you're welcome to get in touch to explore whether it's the right fit.
I offer highly personalised, deeply integrative support for a small number of individuals and families navigating life after a neurodivergent identification (e.g. Autistic, ADHD).
At present, I only accept new clients through direct referral. If you feel strongly drawn to this work, you're welcome to get in touch to explore whether it's the right fit.
(01) 233 7180 x32 View (01) 233 7180 x32
Photo of Bríd Brosnan - StillPoint Therapy, Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
StillPoint Therapy
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Serves Area
Have you recently received a diagnosis of autism, or are you wondering whether neurodiversity plays a part in how you experience the world?
I hold a BSc in Counselling & Psychotherapy. I have completed training with AUsome Ireland enabling me to work in a neuro-affirming way with autistic and neurodivergent adults. I draw on a range of approaches to tailor our work to your needs—all you need to bring is a willingness to start a conversation. ​
Have you recently received a diagnosis of autism, or are you wondering whether neurodiversity plays a part in how you experience the world?
I hold a BSc in Counselling & Psychotherapy. I have completed training with AUsome Ireland enabling me to work in a neuro-affirming way with autistic and neurodivergent adults. I draw on a range of approaches to tailor our work to your needs—all you need to bring is a willingness to start a conversation. ​
(01) 233 7903 x43 View (01) 233 7903 x43
Photo of Deirdre Fahy - Deirdre Fahy ADHD & Autism Therapist, Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Deirdre Fahy ADHD & Autism Therapist
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism or are you considering a diagnosis?
A diagnosis helps the client to begin living again in a new way, a life that understands and celebrates their neurodivergence. I see relief, reframing, boundary creation and a confident authenticity that is liberating. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent psychotherapist, I am incredibly passionate about the mental health recovery of my ADHD and ASD clients.
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism or are you considering a diagnosis?
A diagnosis helps the client to begin living again in a new way, a life that understands and celebrates their neurodivergence. I see relief, reframing, boundary creation and a confident authenticity that is liberating. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent psychotherapist, I am incredibly passionate about the mental health recovery of my ADHD and ASD clients.
(01) 267 6517 x35 View (01) 267 6517 x35
Photo of Frances Macken, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MIAHIP
Frances Macken
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MIAHIP
1 Endorsed
Balbriggan, County Dublin K32
Primarily I work from a humanistic, integrative and trauma informed approach. I like to meet people where they are at. I have found, both personally and professionally, any expression of a struggling part of the self provides us with an opportunity to learn, heal and thrive. I have seen this pave the way for very liberating experiences for clients - both adolescents and adults, and something I consistently strive to harness in the work. I have a keen interest in working with the shadow, or darker aspects of the self.
Primarily I work from a humanistic, integrative and trauma informed approach. I like to meet people where they are at. I have found, both personally and professionally, any expression of a struggling part of the self provides us with an opportunity to learn, heal and thrive. I have seen this pave the way for very liberating experiences for clients - both adolescents and adults, and something I consistently strive to harness in the work. I have a keen interest in working with the shadow, or darker aspects of the self.
(01) 233 7903 x16 View (01) 233 7903 x16
Photo of Michaela Brigid Harrison, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Michaela Brigid Harrison
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Balbriggan, County Dublin K32
I’m Michaela (she/her), a neurodivergent Counsellor & Psychotherapist and a fully accredited member of the IACP, as well as a CORU-registered Social Worker.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience, creating a space where clients feel truly understood and supported.
I’m Michaela (she/her), a neurodivergent Counsellor & Psychotherapist and a fully accredited member of the IACP, as well as a CORU-registered Social Worker.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience, creating a space where clients feel truly understood and supported.
(01) 263 0393 x45 View (01) 263 0393 x45
Photo of Jennifer Hayden, Counsellor, MIACP
Jennifer Hayden
Counsellor, MIACP
Serves Area
Many people encounter challenges that they need help overcoming. I create a space were clients feel safe, heard and understood. Our sessions will provide you with the opportunity to talk about issues or problems in your life in an accepting and confidential environment with someone who really listens to you and supports you as you find new ways to cope. Counselling focuses on your strengths and abilities to help you make changes in your life, to grow and to develop yourself as a person.
Many people encounter challenges that they need help overcoming. I create a space were clients feel safe, heard and understood. Our sessions will provide you with the opportunity to talk about issues or problems in your life in an accepting and confidential environment with someone who really listens to you and supports you as you find new ways to cope. Counselling focuses on your strengths and abilities to help you make changes in your life, to grow and to develop yourself as a person.
(01) 267 6552 x89 View (01) 267 6552 x89
Photo of Leone Holden - Reflective Insights, Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Reflective Insights
Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in working with diagnosed/self-identified Autistic and AuDHD adults.
At Reflective Insights I offer a safe, compassionate space, where clients can explore any challenges/difficulties they are facing e.g. autistic burnout, bullying, low self esteem. In therapy I help my clients to identify, and navigate the difficulties they are experiencing and I support them in finding a way forward, please see website.
I specialise in working with diagnosed/self-identified Autistic and AuDHD adults.
At Reflective Insights I offer a safe, compassionate space, where clients can explore any challenges/difficulties they are facing e.g. autistic burnout, bullying, low self esteem. In therapy I help my clients to identify, and navigate the difficulties they are experiencing and I support them in finding a way forward, please see website.
(061) 572 524 x90 View (061) 572 524 x90
Photo of Stephen dandy - sherpatherapies. MAPCP. Low cost counselling , Counsellor, DCounsPsych
sherpatherapies. MAPCP. Low cost counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hey! My name is Steve. At sherpatherapies my main focus is to be a consistent support at a low cost.My approach is always welcoming, warm and supportive . I have experience in a wide range of areas including general psychotherapy, couples counselling and the field of addiction, recovery, and families of those in addiction. I believe in listening to what the client wants, helping them set their goals, and achieving them. Life can place us in the most difficult times, and sometimes it feels hard to reach out and ask for help. Asking is the 1st step to freeing yourself of the weight
Hey! My name is Steve. At sherpatherapies my main focus is to be a consistent support at a low cost.My approach is always welcoming, warm and supportive . I have experience in a wide range of areas including general psychotherapy, couples counselling and the field of addiction, recovery, and families of those in addiction. I believe in listening to what the client wants, helping them set their goals, and achieving them. Life can place us in the most difficult times, and sometimes it feels hard to reach out and ask for help. Asking is the 1st step to freeing yourself of the weight
(01) 230 8537 x25 View (01) 230 8537 x25
Photo of Denise O'Flanagan, Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Denise O'Flanagan
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, in deepening self awareness and rebuilding healthy connections.
Feeling disconnected from yourself? Life experiences, whether trauma or the challenges of being neurodiverse in a world that doesn’t always understand, can leave you feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or out of touch with who you really are. I provide a supportive space where you can begin to explore your story, deepen your self-understanding, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that may feel hidden or out of reach. My role isn’t to “fix” you. it’s to walk alongside you as you move toward greater clarity, self-acceptance, and growth at your own pace.
I support individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, in deepening self awareness and rebuilding healthy connections.
Feeling disconnected from yourself? Life experiences, whether trauma or the challenges of being neurodiverse in a world that doesn’t always understand, can leave you feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or out of touch with who you really are. I provide a supportive space where you can begin to explore your story, deepen your self-understanding, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that may feel hidden or out of reach. My role isn’t to “fix” you. it’s to walk alongside you as you move toward greater clarity, self-acceptance, and growth at your own pace.
083 304 1287 x353 View 083 304 1287 x353

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dana Gonen
Dana Gonen
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, County D05
I'm a qualified Music Therapist, accredited member IACAT. For over fourteen years I successfully worked with children in special needs schools and in a private practice. During these years, I gained valuable experience dealing with complex cases where I had to customise individual therapy programmes for my patients, while collaborating with Multidisciplinary Educational Teams. I always aims to inspire her patients to realise their full potential and ability for growth and self-fulfilment. Music is my main therapy medium but other artistic tools are frequently used in my therapy sessions as well.
I'm a qualified Music Therapist, accredited member IACAT. For over fourteen years I successfully worked with children in special needs schools and in a private practice. During these years, I gained valuable experience dealing with complex cases where I had to customise individual therapy programmes for my patients, while collaborating with Multidisciplinary Educational Teams. I always aims to inspire her patients to realise their full potential and ability for growth and self-fulfilment. Music is my main therapy medium but other artistic tools are frequently used in my therapy sessions as well.
(01) 267 6552 x69 View (01) 267 6552 x69
Photo of Gerard O'Dea, Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Gerard O'Dea
Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Dublin, County D01
Life challenges and mental health issues can be exacerbated by feelings of shame, invalidation, and isolation. The first step toward addressing that feeling is talking it out. I provide counselling and psychotherapy sessions with a humanistic, integrative approach, taking the time to respect the individuality of each client and create a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space. Well done on taking the first step and for reaching out. I welcome the opportunity to encourage and empower you on your therapeutic journey and personal growth.
Life challenges and mental health issues can be exacerbated by feelings of shame, invalidation, and isolation. The first step toward addressing that feeling is talking it out. I provide counselling and psychotherapy sessions with a humanistic, integrative approach, taking the time to respect the individuality of each client and create a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space. Well done on taking the first step and for reaching out. I welcome the opportunity to encourage and empower you on your therapeutic journey and personal growth.
(01) 267 6603 x18 View (01) 267 6603 x18
Photo of Naomi Quinn, Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Naomi Quinn
Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Online Only
I offer a warm, affirming, and collaborative space for adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, neurodivergence (ADHD/ autism), OCD and BPD.
I also work with clients navigating chronic or invisible illnesses (such as endometriosis - a condition that is often misunderstood and under-supported). I have further training in Perinatal Mental Health, Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy, and EMDR.
I offer a warm, affirming, and collaborative space for adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, neurodivergence (ADHD/ autism), OCD and BPD.
I also work with clients navigating chronic or invisible illnesses (such as endometriosis - a condition that is often misunderstood and under-supported). I have further training in Perinatal Mental Health, Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy, and EMDR.
(01) 267 6552 x10 View (01) 267 6552 x10
Photo of Jen Conefrey, Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Jen Conefrey
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
3 Endorsed
Dublin, County D03
I offer LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent-affirming therapy for individuals and couples.
You may want a therapist experienced in working with trauma, identity, and neurodivergence in a respectful, affirming way. I offer LGBTQIA+ and GSRD (Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity) affirming therapy for individuals and couples. My work is trauma-informed, inclusive, and sex-positive. I support clients healing from trauma, including child sexual abuse and sexual violence, and those exploring identity, intimacy, desire, and self-connection, with respect and care.
I offer LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent-affirming therapy for individuals and couples.
You may want a therapist experienced in working with trauma, identity, and neurodivergence in a respectful, affirming way. I offer LGBTQIA+ and GSRD (Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity) affirming therapy for individuals and couples. My work is trauma-informed, inclusive, and sex-positive. I support clients healing from trauma, including child sexual abuse and sexual violence, and those exploring identity, intimacy, desire, and self-connection, with respect and care.
083 422 4152 View 083 422 4152
Photo of Dr. Michela Devaney, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol PSI
Dr. Michela Devaney
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol PSI
Dublin, County D04
A Chartered Psychologist with over 13 years of experience in various mental health settings throughout Ireland including over a decade supporting university students at the Trinity College Student Counselling Service and experience conducting neuroaffirmative autism assessments (identification) at The Adult Autism & ADHD practice.
My approach is kind, compassionate, collaborative, and client-centred, focused on building resilience, clarity, and meaningful coping strategies.
A Chartered Psychologist with over 13 years of experience in various mental health settings throughout Ireland including over a decade supporting university students at the Trinity College Student Counselling Service and experience conducting neuroaffirmative autism assessments (identification) at The Adult Autism & ADHD practice.
My approach is kind, compassionate, collaborative, and client-centred, focused on building resilience, clarity, and meaningful coping strategies.
(01) 233 7180 x62 View (01) 233 7180 x62
Photo of Dr. Jill Woods - Cocoon Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol PSI
Cocoon Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol PSI
Kilternan, County Dublin D18
My service caters for all ages, including those navigating the complexities of being neurodivergent (Dyslexic, Autistic,ADHD) in a predominantly neurotypical world.
As a neurodivergent clinical psychologist specialising in autism/ADHD, I provide tailored assessments, evidence-based strategies, and compassionate guidance. I help clients embrace their identity, improve executive functioning, manage emotions, and navigate academic, professional, or personal challenges—fostering growth, resilience, and authenticity
My service caters for all ages, including those navigating the complexities of being neurodivergent (Dyslexic, Autistic,ADHD) in a predominantly neurotypical world.
As a neurodivergent clinical psychologist specialising in autism/ADHD, I provide tailored assessments, evidence-based strategies, and compassionate guidance. I help clients embrace their identity, improve executive functioning, manage emotions, and navigate academic, professional, or personal challenges—fostering growth, resilience, and authenticity
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Photo of Alice Ann Lee, Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Alice Ann Lee
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Dublin, County D07
Sometimes when struggling with various stressors we often fear reaching out for help. Therapy can support you to process painful experiences; increase your ability to cope day to day, and address long term issues affecting the quality of your life. Are you an adolescent at risk, a family looking for help with coping skills related to conflict, a couple looking to work through conflict or marital issues; have you experienced trauma? I work with complex client needs such as sexual abuse, substance misuse, relational issues, and mental health including other anxiety, emotional and behavioural issues.
Sometimes when struggling with various stressors we often fear reaching out for help. Therapy can support you to process painful experiences; increase your ability to cope day to day, and address long term issues affecting the quality of your life. Are you an adolescent at risk, a family looking for help with coping skills related to conflict, a couple looking to work through conflict or marital issues; have you experienced trauma? I work with complex client needs such as sexual abuse, substance misuse, relational issues, and mental health including other anxiety, emotional and behavioural issues.
087 270 2199 View 087 270 2199
Photo of Marlena Nowak -Gnitecka, Counsellor, MA, APCP
Marlena Nowak -Gnitecka
Counsellor, MA, APCP
Dublin, County D09
With 17 years of experience in education supporting neurodivergent individuals, I also offer therapy for adults navigating late diagnoses, procrastination, low motivation, anxiety, or depression.
I offer confidential, trauma-informed therapy in Santry and online for adults facing anxiety, depression, burnout, ADHD, autism, grief, low self-esteem, and rejection sensitivity. Bilingual (Polish-English), LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally sensitive support in North Dublin. You're not alone—let’s talk.
With 17 years of experience in education supporting neurodivergent individuals, I also offer therapy for adults navigating late diagnoses, procrastination, low motivation, anxiety, or depression.
I offer confidential, trauma-informed therapy in Santry and online for adults facing anxiety, depression, burnout, ADHD, autism, grief, low self-esteem, and rejection sensitivity. Bilingual (Polish-English), LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally sensitive support in North Dublin. You're not alone—let’s talk.
(01) 267 6570 x56 View (01) 267 6570 x56
Photo of Samantha Judge, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Samantha Judge
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Dublin, County D05
Practicing neuroaffirmative therapy approaches, I have a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients and parents /carers of neurodivergent children.
Welcome , my name is Samantha Judge . I have an honours degree in integrative psychotherapy and counselling, a diploma in applied social science and certificates in behavioural analysis and suicide intervention. I offer an integrative therapy and counselling service located on the Howth road Raheny with off street parking. I offer the highest standard in individual and couples therapy, with tailored multidisciplinary approaches for all my clients. We are all very different and unique. Individual, non judgemental and genuine client care is always at the heart of my service .
Practicing neuroaffirmative therapy approaches, I have a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients and parents /carers of neurodivergent children.
Welcome , my name is Samantha Judge . I have an honours degree in integrative psychotherapy and counselling, a diploma in applied social science and certificates in behavioural analysis and suicide intervention. I offer an integrative therapy and counselling service located on the Howth road Raheny with off street parking. I offer the highest standard in individual and couples therapy, with tailored multidisciplinary approaches for all my clients. We are all very different and unique. Individual, non judgemental and genuine client care is always at the heart of my service .
(01) 267 6595 x91 View (01) 267 6595 x91
Photo of Simon Yeates - Walk and Talk Therapy for Neurodivergent Adults, Counsellor, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Walk and Talk Therapy for Neurodivergent Adults
Counsellor, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
1 Endorsed
Malahide, County Dublin K36
I work with adults who are navigating ADHD, autism (diagnosed or self-identified), anxiety, burnout, identity questions, and the emotional weight of constant masking.
I help adults who are neurodivergent (diagnosed or self-identified) with anxiety, burnout, masking fatigue, and self-doubt. Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected. I know how hard it is masking and trying to fit into systems that don’t work. I can help you be yourself and deal with the feelings of overwhelm.
I work with adults who are navigating ADHD, autism (diagnosed or self-identified), anxiety, burnout, identity questions, and the emotional weight of constant masking.
I help adults who are neurodivergent (diagnosed or self-identified) with anxiety, burnout, masking fatigue, and self-doubt. Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected. I know how hard it is masking and trying to fit into systems that don’t work. I can help you be yourself and deal with the feelings of overwhelm.
087 385 7801 x353 View 087 385 7801 x353
Photo of Gillian Fagan, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Gillian Fagan
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Lucan, County Dublin K78
I love how resourceful people can be. Most of us don't question who we are or how we got here until in a crisis or conflict. Therapy can be useful for many reasons; self acceptance, letting go of others expectations, difficulties in relationships, feeling stuck, a personal challenge, or just learning more about yourself. I love studying the science of human behaviour and understanding why we are the way we are. I combine psychology and science with psychotherapy in my approach. I work with a wide variety of issues, and have additional training in a number of areas, constantly developing the services I can offer.
I love how resourceful people can be. Most of us don't question who we are or how we got here until in a crisis or conflict. Therapy can be useful for many reasons; self acceptance, letting go of others expectations, difficulties in relationships, feeling stuck, a personal challenge, or just learning more about yourself. I love studying the science of human behaviour and understanding why we are the way we are. I combine psychology and science with psychotherapy in my approach. I work with a wide variety of issues, and have additional training in a number of areas, constantly developing the services I can offer.
(01) 267 6595 x32 View (01) 267 6595 x32
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.