Neuroaffirming clinical care

Autism Therapy

Explore your autistic identity, manage sensory fatigue and recover from burnout. Providing neuroaffirming therapy online and in person.

Clinical Overview

Autism therapy London

Autism is a natural variance in neurobiology, defining how an individual processes sensory inputs, communicates, and interprets the social world. Rather than a condition requiring intervention, it is a way of being that often encounters profound barriers in neurotypical-centric environments. Our therapy is grounded in neuroaffirming practice—valuing the autistic experience and focusing on the secondary struggles that occur when a person’s needs remain unmet. We provide a space for identity exploration, sensory management, and sustainable living strategies.

Prevalence

Autism affects around 1–2% of people

Gold-standard treatment

Neuroaffirming therapy, adapted CBT and burnout support

Typical recovery

Often 10–16 sessions of focused support

Neuroaffirming

Autism is treated as a difference, not a defect to be fixed

Late-diagnosis aware

Support for masking, burnout and identity after adult recognition

NHS autism information

1–2%

Estimated prevalence of autism in the population

Late

Many adults only identify or are diagnosed well into adulthood

Burnout

Masking and sensory overload commonly drive emotional exhaustion

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Dr Martina Paglia

Clinically reviewed by

Dr Martina Paglia

Founder & CEO of Mind a Porter

HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist

Special interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, burnout, workplace stress, relationship difficulties and high-performance mental wellbeing.

Last reviewed: 13 August 2026

All health information on Mind a Porter is clinically reviewed by our clinical lead. These resources are educational and do not replace professional advice.

AI-ready summary

Autism therapy in London offers neuroaffirming support for autistic adults, whether formally diagnosed, self-identified or questioning. Common reasons people seek therapy include autistic burnout, masking exhaustion, sensory overload, shutdowns, anxiety linked to chronic misunderstanding and the identity work that follows late recognition. Therapy does not aim to make you less autistic; it focuses on burnout recovery, sensory regulation, self-acceptance and sustainable living strategies, often over 10 to 16 sessions of focused support.

Honouring your neuro-divergence

How therapy fosters autistic wellbeing

Autism defines your unique lens on the world—how you process sensory stimuli, navigate social expectations, and find comfort in routines. For many adults, the 'problem' is not the autism itself, but the cumulative cost of navigating a world that often ignores neuro-divergent needs. Whether you are seeking support for burnout, managing sensory overload, or exploring your identity, our therapy acts as a buffer against the exhaustion of living in a rigid environment. We work to lower the barrier to entry, helping you create a life that accommodates your sensory and social reality.

Late diagnosis or self-identification can be a transformative discovery. It often provides a framework that finally makes sense of a lifetime of feeling 'different' or exhausted by social tasks that seem easy for others. We provide the space to process these findings, enabling you to move away from internalised shame and towards a self-informed life. For those who have spent years masking to fit in, we offer support in unpacking those performances, so you can discern which parts of your life truly serve you versus those that are simply defensive reactions.

Autistic burnout is a very real, often hidden, struggle. It frequently results from the long-term impact of suppressing your needs, ignoring sensory signals, and overextending your social capacity. We treat burnout with the care and urgency it requires, helping you build recovery periods into your week and establish boundaries that protect your limited energy reserves. This is about helping you establish a baseline of safety and authentic expression.

Our work is collaborative and inherently neuroaffirming. There is no 'standard' way to be autistic, so there is no standard way to be in therapy with us. Whether you need to discuss work-based adjustments, deepen your understanding of your own internal rhythm, or develop strategies to handle sensory fatigue, we adapt our techniques to fit you. The goal is simple: to help you exist in a way that feels more sustainable and fundamentally more like yourself.

Understanding causes

What contributes to autism

Autism rarely has a single cause. It usually builds up from a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors, and understanding your own pattern is an important part of finding the right support.

Biological factors: Genetics, brain chemistry, physical health and sleep patterns can all play a role in how autism develops and is experienced.

Psychological factors: Thinking styles, past experiences, personality traits and learned coping patterns can maintain or worsen autism over time.

Environmental factors: Stress, relationships, work pressure, life transitions and broader social or cultural factors often contribute to when and how autism surfaces.

Benefits

The benefits of Autism Therapy

A clearer understanding of what is keeping your autism going and why

Practical tools from neuroaffirming therapy to manage triggers and setbacks in daily life

Reduced intensity and frequency of autism symptoms as the work progresses

Better sleep, focus and energy as autism stops dominating your day

More confidence in social, work and relationship situations

A therapeutic relationship you can return to whenever things feel harder

Areas of therapeutic focus

Common themes for autistic adults

Therapy provides the tools to manage the external world, so you can preserve your internal equilibrium.

  • Understanding your autism, traits and personal profile
  • Managing sensory overload, shutdowns or recovery needs
  • Reducing the cost of masking and social performance
  • Autistic burnout recovery and energy protection
  • Communication and relationship support
  • Anxiety, shame or low mood linked to chronic misunderstanding
  • Workplace adjustments, boundaries and disclosure decisions
  • Late-diagnosis identity work and self-acceptance

When to seek help

When is it time to seek therapy for autism?

It is worth reaching out when autism is starting to affect your daily life, relationships or wellbeing. You do not need to wait until things feel unmanageable. These are the signs that professional support could help.

  • understanding your autism, traits and personal profile
  • managing sensory overload, shutdowns or recovery needs
  • reducing the cost of masking and social performance
  • autistic burnout recovery and energy protection
  • communication and relationship support
  • anxiety, shame or low mood linked to chronic misunderstanding

Recognise any of these signs?

You don't have to figure it out alone. A 15-minute £1 discovery call can help you make sense of what's happening and what kind of support might help. Therapy for autism is available online or in person in London.

Our therapeutic philosophy

Neuroaffirming therapeutic practices

Our approach is rooted in the belief that autistic individuals deserve therapy that respects, rather than pathologises, their neurotype.

Autism-affirming therapy

We operate on the premise that you are the expert on your own experience and that your neurotype is a part of your innate self, not an ailment.

Adapted CBT

CBT can be effectively repurposed to address anxiety and rigid thinking patterns, focusing on sensory-aware adjustments.

Sensory and burnout support

Developing practical, sustainable strategies to recognise triggers early and create environments that protect your nervous system.

Identity and self-acceptance work

Unpacking the 'mask' and learning how to embrace your authentic self in a world that often pressures you to do otherwise.

Fees & booking

Transparent pricing for autism therapy

50-minute sessions, online or in person across London
Fees set by each therapist and shown before you book
Private insurance accepted by many clinicians

Clients never pay more with us than going direct, and our therapists offer their best rates.

What to expect

What does a first autism therapy session look like?

A first autism session usually starts by understanding what your autistic experience actually looks like rather than assessing you against a checklist. Your therapist will ask about sensory processing, social energy, masking, routines, shutdowns, special interests and what currently feels most costly or unsustainable in your daily life.

You may also explore whether you are formally diagnosed, self-identified or questioning, and what autistic burnout or camouflaging has cost you. Earlier experiences of being misunderstood, bullied or misdiagnosed often come up because they shape how safe it feels to unmask now.

By the end of the session you should feel more seen and less pathologised, with a clearer understanding of what neuroaffirming support would involve, whether that is burnout recovery, sensory regulation, identity work or communication strategies. The aim is to work with your neurotype, not to change it.

Ready to take the first step?

Book a £1 discovery call, or browse therapists near you for autism therapy. Online and in-person sessions across London.

Why Choose Us

Why neuroaffirming therapy feels different

Our team is committed to delivering care that respects your autonomy, understands the reality of burnout, and offers genuinely neuroaffirming strategies.

Compassionate approach

We work with warmth, validation and realistic support rather than shame or blame.

Personalised care

Support is tailored to your goals, nervous system, executive profile and life context.

Real-world support

Useful for work, study, parenting, relationships and the pace of London life.

Autism Specialists

£1 Discovery Call
Aanu Jide-Ojo
Easy Booking
WomanOnline via Google Meet

Ms Aanu Jide-ojoClinical Psychologist

M.Sc. Organisational Psychiatry and Psychology · M.Sc. Clini…7+ years of experience

I am an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist with seven years of professional experience. My academic background includes a B.Sc. in Psychology, an M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology, and an M.Sc. in Organisational Psychiatry and Psychology. I provide a comprehensive range of clinical services, including individual therapy, couples and family counselling, and autism assessment. My practice is informed by an extensive breadth of modalities, such as CBT, ACT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, the Gottman Method, and Somatic Therapy. I work with a diverse client base, supporting teenagers, adults, and seniors through complex challenges including PTSD, personality disorders, neurodivergence, and relationship dynamics. By integrating trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ affirmative approaches, I offer a tailored, professional space designed to address the unique intersections of identity and life experience. My clinical commitment is to provide expert, evidence-based psychological support that empowers you to navigate significant transitions, workplace pressures, and personal growth with confidence and clarity.

English
From £120 /session
£1 Discovery Call
Param Singh Sahni
Easy Booking
Man Sudbury HillOnline via Google Meet

Mr Param Singh SahniPsychotherapist

MSc · PGDip · BA10+ years of experience

I am a UKCP-registered and BACP-accredited psychotherapist with over a decade of clinical experience, offering a warm, collaborative space for adults seeking meaningful change. My practice is informed by an MSc and a breadth of specialist training, allowing me to support clients through a diverse range of challenges including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, addiction, and complex trauma. As a British Punjabi Sikh therapist, I bring a unique depth to my work, carefully considering the intersections of culture, race, faith, and identity. My expertise spans individual and online therapy, where I integrate modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Therapy to meet your specific needs. Whether we are navigating life transitions, relationship dynamics, or professional burnout, my aim is to facilitate genuine understanding. I am committed to providing an inclusive, non-judgemental environment where you can explore your personal history and current experiences to foster lasting emotional growth and wellbeing.

EnglishHindiPunjabi+1
From £120 /session
£1 Discovery Call
Simone Ellington
WomanOnline via Google Meet

Ms Simone EllingtonPsychotherapist

Level 4 Counselling3+ years of experience

I am a qualified psychotherapist with three years of professional experience, holding a Level 4 qualification in Counselling. As a registered member of both the BACP and the NCPS, I provide a professional, non-judgemental space for adults and teenagers navigating complex personal challenges. My practice is grounded in an integrative framework, utilising individual therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Gestalt, and attachment-based approaches. This diverse clinical toolkit allows me to support clients across a broad spectrum of needs, including ADHD, autism, addiction, bipolar disorder, and the multifaceted nature of bereavement, abandonment, and life transitions. I also work extensively with individuals managing workplace stress, burnout, chronic pain, and relationship difficulties. Whether you are addressing symptoms of depression, insomnia, or concerns regarding self-esteem and trust, I offer a secure, considered environment designed to help you explore your experiences and facilitate meaningful change at a pace that is appropriate for you.

English
From £65 /session
£1 Discovery Call
Sarah Jane Sellors
WomanOnline via Zoom

Sarah Jane SellorsPsychotherapist

MA7+ years of experience

I am an HCPC-registered Integrative Arts Psychotherapist with seven years of clinical experience supporting adults, teenagers, and children. My practice is built upon a relational foundation, providing a confidential space for clients to explore their challenges at their own pace. Drawing on a diverse toolkit—including psychodynamic, attachment-based, and cognitive behavioural therapies, alongside Gestalt and narrative approaches—I provide bespoke support for a wide range of needs. My professional background spans the NHS, education, and public services, where I have developed a deep understanding of the pressures inherent in modern life. I possess particular expertise in supporting clients through neurodivergence, bereavement, life transitions, and workplace burnout, as well as recovery from trauma and domestic abuse. By integrating my background in art therapy with traditional counselling, I offer a flexible, human-centred environment that encourages curiosity and genuine connection, helping you navigate complex experiences and personal growth.

English
From £100 /session
Ronak Motlagh
Easy Booking
WomanOnline via Google Meet

Ms Ronak MotlaghPsychotherapist

Masters in Counselling · Psychotherapy · Bachelors in Social…9+ years of experience

I am a registered psychotherapist with nine years of clinical experience, dedicated to providing a secure and reflective space for adults navigating complex personal challenges. Holding a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy alongside a Bachelors in Social Work, I integrate a range of modalities including Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Person-Centred, and Attachment-Based therapies. My practice is informed by a deep understanding of how past experiences and relational history shape our present-day behaviours. Throughout my career, I have supported clients through a wide spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, and the impact of narcissistic abuse. Whether we are addressing chronic pain, workplace burnout, or the challenges of life transitions, my approach is tailored to your specific needs. I am fully accredited by the BACP and offer sessions in English, Farsi, and German, providing both individual and online therapy to ensure you feel supported throughout your process of change and self-discovery.

EnglishFarsiGerman
From £129 /session
£1 Discovery Call
Anastasia Moraiti
Easy Booking
Woman Kings CrossOnline via Google Meet

Ms Anastasia MoraitiPsychotherapist

MA9+ years of experience

I am a UKCP-registered psychotherapist with nine years of clinical experience, offering both in-person and online therapy to adults. My practice is informed by an MA and a diverse integrative framework, including Somatic, Person-Centred, Existential, Narrative, and Art Therapy. Throughout my career, I have worked with a broad spectrum of human experiences, supporting clients navigating complex life transitions, relationship challenges, and the impact of trauma. My clinical focus includes assisting individuals with ADHD, autism, body image concerns, workplace stress, and recovery from domestic or narcissistic abuse. Whether we are exploring the roots of generalised anxiety, perfectionism, or the weight of chronic pain and bereavement, I provide a professional and compassionate space for reflection. I am deeply committed to the integration of mind and body, drawing on my training to help you navigate your unique narrative with clarity, curiosity, and professional rigour, while working in either English or Greek.

EnglishGreek
From £60 /session

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What people usually ask about autism therapy

Whether you are newly exploring your neurotype or seeking support for established challenges, our FAQ aims to provide clarity on our therapeutic approach.

What is autism-affirming therapy?

Autism-affirming therapy is a model that rejects the 'deficit' view of neurodivergence. We focus on your strengths and needs, providing practical support for burnout, sensory management, and identity formation without ever attempting to 'correct' your autistic traits.

Can therapy help even if I am not formally diagnosed yet?

You do not need a formal diagnosis to access our support. Many of our clients arrive while questioning or self-identifying, and we are perfectly positioned to help you navigate the process of understanding your identity and managing your wellbeing during that time.

Can autism therapy London help with autistic burnout?

Burnout is a primary reason many seek support, and we have extensive experience in helping clients recover. We focus on identifying your unique energy thresholds, reducing the weight of masking, and building sustainable, self-compassionate routines.

Do you try to change autistic traits in therapy?

We never aim to make you appear less autistic. Our role is to assist you in managing the environment and your own responses in a way that minimises distress and increases your personal sense of ease and agency.

Can I use insurance for autism therapy London?

Insurance providers vary, and we are happy to help you evaluate your coverage options. Often, support for related challenges like anxiety or burnout is eligible for reimbursement, and we can discuss the specifics during your booking process.

When should I seek therapy for autism?

It is worth considering therapy when autism is becoming persistent, distressing, or harder to manage on your own, especially if it is affecting work, relationships, sleep, confidence, or day-to-day functioning. You do not need to wait until things feel severe before asking for support. Early therapy can help you understand what is driving the pattern, reduce symptoms sooner, and decide whether focused online treatment, in-person therapy in London, or a broader clinical review is the most appropriate next step.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned about autism, please speak with a qualified therapist or your GP. In a crisis, call 999 or Samaritans on 116 123.

The right therapist for Autism Therapy
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Book a consultation to start building a more sustainable and authentic life as an autistic adult.

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