Understanding
Autism Spectrum Conditions
Autism Spectrum Conditions affect how people communicate, interact socially, and process sensory information. Each person's experience is unique, and whilst some autistic people live independently, others may need additional support to navigate daily life, relationships, and work environments.
Understanding
Autism Spectrum Conditions
Autism Spectrum Conditions affect how people communicate, interact socially, and process sensory information. Each person's experience is unique, and whilst some autistic people live independently, others may need additional support to navigate daily life, relationships, and work environments.
Understanding
Autism Spectrum Conditions
Autism Spectrum Conditions affect how people communicate, interact socially, and process sensory information. Each person's experience is unique, and whilst some autistic people live independently, others may need additional support to navigate daily life, relationships, and work environments.
What does Autism Spectrum Conditions feel like?
Living with autism can feel like experiencing the world differently from those around you. Social interactions might feel confusing or exhausting, with unspoken rules that seem obvious to others but remain mysterious to you. Sensory experiences can be overwhelming - certain sounds, textures, or lighting might feel unbearable whilst others bring comfort.
Many autistic people describe feeling like they're constantly trying to fit into a world designed for neurotypical people, leading to masking behaviours that can be mentally draining. Changes to routine or unexpected events can cause significant distress, and processing emotions or understanding your own needs may require extra time and support.
Common Symptoms
Difficulties with social communication and interaction
Repetitive behaviours or intense focused interests
Sensory sensitivities or seeking certain sensory experiences
Preference for routine and difficulty with changes
Challenges understanding non-verbal communication
Differences in eye contact and social reciprocity
Literal interpretation of language and difficulty with sarcasm
Executive functioning challenges with planning and organisation
What does Autism Spectrum Conditions feel like?
Living with autism can feel like experiencing the world differently from those around you. Social interactions might feel confusing or exhausting, with unspoken rules that seem obvious to others but remain mysterious to you. Sensory experiences can be overwhelming - certain sounds, textures, or lighting might feel unbearable whilst others bring comfort.
Many autistic people describe feeling like they're constantly trying to fit into a world designed for neurotypical people, leading to masking behaviours that can be mentally draining. Changes to routine or unexpected events can cause significant distress, and processing emotions or understanding your own needs may require extra time and support.
Common Symptoms
Difficulties with social communication and interaction
Repetitive behaviours or intense focused interests
Sensory sensitivities or seeking certain sensory experiences
Preference for routine and difficulty with changes
Challenges understanding non-verbal communication
Differences in eye contact and social reciprocity
Literal interpretation of language and difficulty with sarcasm
Executive functioning challenges with planning and organisation
What does Autism Spectrum Conditions feel like?
Living with autism can feel like experiencing the world differently from those around you. Social interactions might feel confusing or exhausting, with unspoken rules that seem obvious to others but remain mysterious to you. Sensory experiences can be overwhelming - certain sounds, textures, or lighting might feel unbearable whilst others bring comfort.
Many autistic people describe feeling like they're constantly trying to fit into a world designed for neurotypical people, leading to masking behaviours that can be mentally draining. Changes to routine or unexpected events can cause significant distress, and processing emotions or understanding your own needs may require extra time and support.
Common Symptoms
Difficulties with social communication and interaction
Repetitive behaviours or intense focused interests
Sensory sensitivities or seeking certain sensory experiences
Preference for routine and difficulty with changes
Challenges understanding non-verbal communication
Differences in eye contact and social reciprocity
Literal interpretation of language and difficulty with sarcasm
Executive functioning challenges with planning and organisation
History of Autism Spectrum Conditions
Understanding autism has evolved from early clinical observations to recognising the broad spectrum of autistic experiences and strengths.
1940s
Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger independently described autism characteristics, though Asperger's work remained largely unknown until decades later due to World War II.
1980s
Autism was first included in diagnostic manuals as a distinct condition, moving away from earlier misunderstandings that blamed parenting styles for autistic behaviours.
1990s
The concept of an autism "spectrum" emerged, recognising the wide variation in abilities and challenges, leading to more nuanced understanding and diagnosis criteria.
Present
Modern understanding embraces neurodiversity, recognising autism as a neurological difference rather than solely a disorder, with growing focus on supporting autistic people's strengths whilst addressing genuine challenges.
History of Autism Spectrum Conditions
Understanding autism has evolved from early clinical observations to recognising the broad spectrum of autistic experiences and strengths.
1940s
Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger independently described autism characteristics, though Asperger's work remained largely unknown until decades later due to World War II.
1980s
Autism was first included in diagnostic manuals as a distinct condition, moving away from earlier misunderstandings that blamed parenting styles for autistic behaviours.
1990s
The concept of an autism "spectrum" emerged, recognising the wide variation in abilities and challenges, leading to more nuanced understanding and diagnosis criteria.
Present
Modern understanding embraces neurodiversity, recognising autism as a neurological difference rather than solely a disorder, with growing focus on supporting autistic people's strengths whilst addressing genuine challenges.
History of Autism Spectrum Conditions
Understanding autism has evolved from early clinical observations to recognising the broad spectrum of autistic experiences and strengths.
1940s
Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger independently described autism characteristics, though Asperger's work remained largely unknown until decades later due to World War II.
1980s
Autism was first included in diagnostic manuals as a distinct condition, moving away from earlier misunderstandings that blamed parenting styles for autistic behaviours.
1990s
The concept of an autism "spectrum" emerged, recognising the wide variation in abilities and challenges, leading to more nuanced understanding and diagnosis criteria.
Present
Modern understanding embraces neurodiversity, recognising autism as a neurological difference rather than solely a disorder, with growing focus on supporting autistic people's strengths whilst addressing genuine challenges.
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Therapy for autistic people focuses on building practical life skills, developing coping strategies for sensory and social challenges, and supporting mental health. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), social skills training, and cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for autistic thinking styles can be helpful.
Many autistic people also benefit from occupational therapy for sensory needs, speech and language therapy for communication, and counselling to address anxiety, depression, or trauma. The most effective approaches respect autistic ways of being whilst providing tools to navigate a neurotypical world.
Benefits of Therapy
Develop social communication skills and relationship strategies
Learn sensory regulation and coping techniques
Build executive functioning and organisational skills
Address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety
Develop self-advocacy and self-awareness abilities
Create personalised routines and transition strategies
Process experiences of masking and autistic identity
Build confidence and resilience in navigating daily challenges
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about autism spectrum conditions and therapeutic support options
Can autism be diagnosed in adults, even if it wasn't identified in childhood?
Yes, many people, particularly women and those who masked their traits well, receive autism diagnoses in adulthood. Adult diagnosis can provide valuable self-understanding and access to appropriate support, even if you've developed coping strategies over the years.
Is autism caused by vaccines or parenting styles?
No, extensive research has conclusively shown that vaccines do not cause autism, nor do parenting styles. Autism is a neurological difference present from birth, likely involving genetic and environmental factors during early brain development.
Do all autistic people need therapy or intervention?
Not necessarily. Many autistic people live fulfilling lives without formal therapy. Support should be based on individual needs and challenges, focusing on areas where the person wants assistance rather than trying to change core autistic traits.
Can therapy help with autism, or is it a lifelong condition?
Autism is a lifelong neurological difference, but therapy can significantly help with developing coping strategies, addressing mental health challenges, and building skills for independent living. The goal isn't to "cure" autism but to support the person in thriving as their authentic autistic self.
How therapy can help
Therapy for autistic people focuses on building practical life skills, developing coping strategies for sensory and social challenges, and supporting mental health. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), social skills training, and cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for autistic thinking styles can be helpful.
Many autistic people also benefit from occupational therapy for sensory needs, speech and language therapy for communication, and counselling to address anxiety, depression, or trauma. The most effective approaches respect autistic ways of being whilst providing tools to navigate a neurotypical world.
Benefits of Therapy
Develop social communication skills and relationship strategies
Learn sensory regulation and coping techniques
Build executive functioning and organisational skills
Address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety
Develop self-advocacy and self-awareness abilities
Create personalised routines and transition strategies
Process experiences of masking and autistic identity
Build confidence and resilience in navigating daily challenges
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about autism spectrum conditions and therapeutic support options
Can autism be diagnosed in adults, even if it wasn't identified in childhood?
Yes, many people, particularly women and those who masked their traits well, receive autism diagnoses in adulthood. Adult diagnosis can provide valuable self-understanding and access to appropriate support, even if you've developed coping strategies over the years.
Is autism caused by vaccines or parenting styles?
No, extensive research has conclusively shown that vaccines do not cause autism, nor do parenting styles. Autism is a neurological difference present from birth, likely involving genetic and environmental factors during early brain development.
Do all autistic people need therapy or intervention?
Not necessarily. Many autistic people live fulfilling lives without formal therapy. Support should be based on individual needs and challenges, focusing on areas where the person wants assistance rather than trying to change core autistic traits.
Can therapy help with autism, or is it a lifelong condition?
Autism is a lifelong neurological difference, but therapy can significantly help with developing coping strategies, addressing mental health challenges, and building skills for independent living. The goal isn't to "cure" autism but to support the person in thriving as their authentic autistic self.
How therapy can help
Therapy for autistic people focuses on building practical life skills, developing coping strategies for sensory and social challenges, and supporting mental health. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), social skills training, and cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for autistic thinking styles can be helpful.
Many autistic people also benefit from occupational therapy for sensory needs, speech and language therapy for communication, and counselling to address anxiety, depression, or trauma. The most effective approaches respect autistic ways of being whilst providing tools to navigate a neurotypical world.
Benefits of Therapy
Develop social communication skills and relationship strategies
Learn sensory regulation and coping techniques
Build executive functioning and organisational skills
Address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety
Develop self-advocacy and self-awareness abilities
Create personalised routines and transition strategies
Process experiences of masking and autistic identity
Build confidence and resilience in navigating daily challenges
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about autism spectrum conditions and therapeutic support options
Can autism be diagnosed in adults, even if it wasn't identified in childhood?
Yes, many people, particularly women and those who masked their traits well, receive autism diagnoses in adulthood. Adult diagnosis can provide valuable self-understanding and access to appropriate support, even if you've developed coping strategies over the years.
Is autism caused by vaccines or parenting styles?
No, extensive research has conclusively shown that vaccines do not cause autism, nor do parenting styles. Autism is a neurological difference present from birth, likely involving genetic and environmental factors during early brain development.
Do all autistic people need therapy or intervention?
Not necessarily. Many autistic people live fulfilling lives without formal therapy. Support should be based on individual needs and challenges, focusing on areas where the person wants assistance rather than trying to change core autistic traits.
Can therapy help with autism, or is it a lifelong condition?
Autism is a lifelong neurological difference, but therapy can significantly help with developing coping strategies, addressing mental health challenges, and building skills for independent living. The goal isn't to "cure" autism but to support the person in thriving as their authentic autistic self.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
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Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)