Autism counselling

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder but we’re are preferring to move away from the deficits based model and see it as a collection of traits.

The idea being that there isn’t a “right” way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits. People sense, process and interact with the world differently. Autistic individuals may struggle with communication, relationships and the need for rituals and routines but these difficulties arise when people are forced to conform to the “norm”.

Other neurodivergent diagnoses could include:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• Dyslexia
• Dyspraxia
• Sensory Processing Disorder
• Pathological Demand Avoidance
• Tourette’s Syndrome

I am happy to support people with or without a diagnosis—please see the following information for how I can support you.

While I was training to be a counsellor, I received a diagnosis of autism. As an autistic counsellor, I recognise the unique needs of neurodiverse clients. Not only do I have personal experience but I have additional training and professional experience of working with clients who have a range of neurodiversities.

I was diagnosed with autism at the age of 39 and it helped me make sense of things that had previously been hugely confusing and distressing.

While it is not the place of a counsellor to make a diagnosis, I’m able to counsel anyone, with or without a diagnosis, who feels they would benefit from someone who has an understanding of what it’s like to feel:

• “Like an alien”
• “Like no-one else understands”
• “Other therapies haven’t worked”
• “I don’t know where else to turn”

The person-centred counselling that I offer can help make sense of how you feel and we’ll work together towards the future you want.

I’m also counsel people touched by autism or other neurodiversities in other ways. For example a sibling, child or parents who is neurodiverse can have a huge impact on your life. Grappling with anger, confusion, frustration and overwhelm are all part of the counselling journey.

If you’re autistic, questioning and autism diagnosis or wondering if some of the traits relate to you, the following are common issues:

• Questioning identity
• Ambivalence regarding getting a diagnosis or coming to terms with a diagnosis
• Feeling stuck/struggling with emotions
• Work related issues/reasonable adjustments
• Struggling with life direction
• Relationship difficulties

The person-centred counselling approach I use means I will be guided by you. Exploring the issues openly, honestly, non-judgementally, with empathy and compassion means we’ll be able to make progress in any area you want.

I recognise that neurodiverse clients may need adjustments; I’ll listen carefully to ensure you get what you need. Adjustments could include:

• More details about how counselling works
• Clearer explanations about where and how we’ll meet
• Flexibility over timings (shorter/longer sessions or fortnightly sessions, for example)
• Support with executive dysfunction
• Taking into account sensory needs
• Different ways of communicating during sessions (when feeling overwhelmed, for example)

If you’re not neurodiverse and feel these adjustments would be helpful, I’m more than happy to discuss your needs.