Service categories: Counselling and therapies

Service URL: http://www.unboxedcounselling.co.uk

Hello, my name is Debbie and Unboxed Counselling is my private practice. I found out that I am autistic at the age of 40 and I have learned a lot about myself since. However, it wasn't an easy journey and sometimes people didn't believe me or they couldn't see some of the things that I was struggling with because I had got so used to hiding them. This is often called masking. Perhaps you are going through something similar. You might have been expected to think, act or behave a certain way and you might have felt restricted by that. Maybe you feel misunderstood. This is why it is important for autistic people to find a therapist that will do their very best to see things from your point of view. I offer a non-judgemental space where you are free to bring whatever issues you wish to counselling. Every autistic person is different and I will strive to get to know you and to make you feel comfortable. If you don't want to make eye contact, that's fine. I find I can do it for a bit and then look away while I am gathering my thoughts! If you need to wear sunglasses indoors, no problem. Maybe you aren't quite sure what you are feeling yet (alexithymia is quite common in autistic people). That's ok, there's no rush to have all the answers. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I use a blend of approaches. Sometimes I might suggest some creative techniques which could be as simple as colouring something in or even making a collage. A practical act can sometimes help teach us things about ourselves that words can't always do.

I work mainly online but I have some limited availability for face to face sessions in Hertfordshire. I also have experience of parenting an autistic child, as well as being an autistic parent myself, so I am happy to work with clients who may need some support around that.

Aimed at: Adult , Parent or carer of under 18, Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Parent/carer of an adult, Partner, Professional, School, Students, Volunteer, Young person

Referral Sources: Private Only, Yourself

Specialisms: Autism and Neurodivergent