I see many autistic people in both my private practice and university counsellor role. I also work with people who are considering whether to seek a formal diagnosis. I offer a calm, confidential and supportive space where you can talk about whatever feels important to you.  

 

As well as dealing with the same kinds of concerns and feelings as other young adults, you may also be dealing with additional challenges linked to your autism. These may include difficulties with the transition to adulthood, friendships and relationships, employment and study. You may also be dealing with the impact of diagnosis as an adult. If so, we can spend time talking about your feelings about this and exploring how you feel about your identity now. 

 

I am a person centred counsellor. Person centred counselling is a well established type of counselling that may be a helpful counselling approach for you a number of reasons:

 

• I will respect your individual experience;  your ways of thinking, feeling and understanding the world. 

• My aim is not to fix you or make you conform to neurotypical standards. Person centred counselling supports you to understand yourself better, so that you can make choices that are right for you. 

• You can talk about what matters most to you. We go at your pace and there is no rush to talk. 

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Tailoring the person centred approach to you 

 

Some autistic clients I work with like the person centred ethos, but prefer more structure than it traditionally offers. As part of your counselling we can discuss what helps you to talk most easily about your concerns. For example: 

 

• You are welcome to bring a list of topics or notes and we can work through these. 

• We can create an agenda at the start of the session. 

• I always take notes on a session; so I can refer to these at the start of our next session. 

• I can ask you questions and provide prompts. 

• Eye contact is 100% optional! Let me know what works for you. 

• I can limit or increase silence as needed. 

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My details are listed on the National Autistic Society website, which also provides support, guidance and advice for autistic people and their families.