Autism Therapy in Manchester
Living with autism, or exploring whether you may be autistic, can bring a mix of emotions. You may be navigating misunderstandings, social challenges, sensory overload, or simply feeling like the world was not built with you in mind. Therapy can provide space to reflect on your experiences without the need to mask or explain yourself.
As a BACP-registered therapist, I offer one-to-one counselling in Manchester for autistic adults and those exploring a potential diagnosis. Our sessions are shaped around your needs and communication style. I’ll meet you where you are, with care, clarity and respect.
If you’d like to explore whether counselling could support you or someone you care about, I’m here to talk.
Understanding Autism
Autism is a different way of experiencing the world. It can shape how you process information, relate to others, manage emotions and make sense of your environment. While everyone’s experience of autism is unique, many autistic people find everyday life exhausting, especially in a world that often isn’t designed with them in mind.
You may have been diagnosed later in life, be exploring whether you are autistic, or simply feel that the way you experience things hasn’t always made sense to others. You might have spent years masking or adapting just to get by, and that can take a real toll on your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Autism is not a problem to be fixed. But therapy can be helpful if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, burnt out or simply want space to reflect in a way that feels safe and respectful.
How Autism Therapy Can Help
Therapy can offer a calm, steady space where you don’t have to explain or edit yourself. It’s a place to explore your experiences, your identity, and your needs, whether or not you use the word autism to describe yourself.
Together, we might explore:
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The emotional impact of masking or feeling misunderstood
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How burnout, overwhelm or shutdowns affect your wellbeing
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Social and sensory differences and how they show up in daily life
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How to advocate for your needs and set clearer boundaries
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What self-acceptance and support might look like for you
You’re not expected to change who you are. Therapy can be about building insight, finding language for your experience and working out what helps you feel more at ease in the world.
For some people, it’s also about unlearning internalised shame or unrealistic expectations that have built up over time. Therapy can help you make space for the things that support your wellbeing, and let go of patterns that have been driven by pressure to fit in or keep up.
It’s your space to explore what actually works for you, on your terms.
My Approach
You don’t need to mask, explain or adjust yourself in our sessions. Many of my clients have spent years doing that in other settings, and therapy can be a space where that pressure is finally lifted.
My approach is person-centred, which means we’ll work with whatever feels most relevant to you, whether that’s burnout, identity, social exhaustion or simply needing somewhere to talk things through. There’s no expectation to talk in a certain way or follow a set agenda. We’ll find a pace and structure that suits how you process and communicate.
When helpful, I can use elements from Transactional Analysis (TA) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), especially when we’re exploring unhelpful thought patterns or building emotional resilience. But therapy is not about changing who you are. It’s about supporting you in a way that respects how you already are.
Why work with me
I’m a Level-4 Certified, BACP-registered therapist (you can see my credentials here) with experience supporting autistic clients and those exploring whether they might be neurodivergent. You won’t need to educate me or explain why things feel the way they do. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where your experiences are valid and taken seriously.
Whether you’re seeking therapy for something specific or just need space to make sense of things in your own way, I’ll meet you with warmth, understanding and care.
Ready to begin?
If you are autistic, think you might be, or are simply looking for a therapist who will support you without judgement, I’m here when you feel ready. I offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can ask questions, share what’s on your mind or just see how it feels to connect.
You are welcome here, exactly as you are.
Based in North Manchester, here to support you
I’m based in North Manchester and work with clients from all across the surrounding areas, including Whitefield, Prestwich, Bury, Radcliffe, Crumpsall, Blackley, Middleton, Salford, and many more local communities. Wherever you're from, if you're looking for support with your mental health, you're welcome here.
Finding me
I offer in-person counselling sessions at my therapy room in Whitefield, North Manchester. It’s a calm, private space that’s easy to reach from across the city and surrounding areas.
Address: 229 Bury New Rd, Whitefield, Manchester M45 8GW. Find me with W3W or via Google
Getting here:
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By car: Free on-street parking is usually available nearby.
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By tram: About a 30-second walk from the Whitefield Metrolink stop.
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By bus: Local buses stop just a short walk away.
If you’re unsure about directions or access, feel free to get in touch - I’m happy to help you plan your visit.
Not local?
If you're not based near North Manchester - or simply prefer not to travel - I also offer counselling sessions by telephone or secure video call. This can be a helpful option if you're juggling a busy schedule, live further away, or feel more comfortable accessing support from home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Autism Counselling
How long does autism therapy typically last?
The duration of autism therapy varies depending on each individual's unique circumstances, progress, and therapeutic goals. While some people may benefit from short-term therapy, others may require ongoing support. As your therapist, I will work closely with you to assess your needs and adjust the therapy duration accordingly, ensuring you receive the most appropriate care.
How can you help me with autism?
As an experienced therapist who has worked with neurodiverse clients, I am committed to providing compassionate, personalised care to support you. By utilising a range of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks and tailoring the approach to your specific needs, I aim to help you develop effective coping strategies, build resilience, and enhance your overall well-being.
Can autism therapy be provided online or over the phone?
Yes, I offer various modes of interaction to accommodate your needs and preferences. In addition to face-to-face sessions, I provide therapy via Zoom/Video call, telephone, and walking therapy. This flexibility allows you to access the support you need in a manner that is most comfortable and convenient for you.
How can I support a family member or friend with autism?
Supporting a loved one with autism can be both rewarding and challenging. As a therapist, I can provide guidance and support to help you understand your loved one's experiences and develop strategies for providing compassionate care while maintaining your own mental and emotional health.
How do you tailor your approach for individuals with different needs or preferences?
I recognise that each person with autism has unique needs, strengths, and challenges. As such, I tailor my approach to suit your specific requirements, preferences, and therapeutic goals. By listening carefully to your experiences and concerns, I can adjust the therapeutic process to ensure that you receive the most effective and compassionate support possible. This might include adjusting the pace of therapy, incorporating different therapeutic techniques, or accommodating specific sensory or communication preferences.
If you have any further questions or concerns about autism therapy, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am here to provide warm, professional support to help you navigate your journey towards understanding and embracing neurodiversity with confidence and compassion.
Related Therapies
Every individual's journey with autism is unique and may require different approaches to address their specific challenges. That's why I offer a range of related therapies tailored to your needs, all delivered with warmth, compassion, and understanding. If you haven't found what you're looking for here, these therapies may also help.
Useful Resources
At Jodie James Counselling Services, I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help for autism can be incredibly challenging. I want you to know that you're not alone, and there are many resources available to support you on your journey towards healing. If you're not quite ready to get in touch with us, I encourage you to explore these external resources that may provide valuable insights, coping strategies, and comfort during this time: