Written by Luisa Kos
Table of contents
Understanding ADHD and Autism
What is ADHD
- Maintaining attention on tasks
- Following instructions or completing projects
- Impulse control and emotional regulation
- Restlessness or excessive movement
- Forgetfulness and time management
What is Autism?
- Difficulty understanding social cues or non-verbal communication
- A strong preference for routine and predictability
- Intense interests in specific topics
- Sensory sensitivities (e.g., to noise, textures, or lights)
- Differences in emotional expression and regulation
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD or Autism
- Clinical interviews and developmental history
- Behavioural observations
- Questionnaires or rating scales completed by the individual and/or caregivers
Treatment & support for ADHD and Autism
There is no “cure” for ADHD or autism, but with the right support, individuals can develop strategies to manage challenges and thrive.
Therapies & interventions
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Can help with emotional regulation, managing anxiety, and improving executive functioning skills.
- Occupational therapy – Supports sensory integration and daily life skills.
- Speech & language therapy – Helps with communication difficulties and social interaction.
- Behavioural Coaching & Executive Function Support – Particularly useful for ADHD to help with organisation and planning.
Medication (For ADHD)
- Stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine) can help improve focus and impulse control.
- Non-stimulant options are also available for those who experience side effects.
- Medication should always be considered alongside behavioural strategies.
Self-Help strategies for ADHD & Autism
- Create structure & routine – Consistent daily habits can reduce anxiety and improve productivity.
- Use visual aids & reminders – Lists, planners, or phone alerts can help with organisation.
- Practice self-regulation techniques – Deep breathing, sensory breaks, or movement can help manage overstimulation.
- Seek community & support – Connecting with others who share similar experiences can be empowering.
I am different, not less.
Find a specialist
If you suspect you or a loved one may have ADHD or autism, speaking to a healthcare professional can provide clarity and access to the right support. Whether through therapy, coaching, or self-help strategies, individuals with ADHD and autism can lead fulfilling and successful lives.
Therapists who can help with ADHD and Autism
Richard Mann
As a therapist, I currently work for the NHS and work in private practice. I work with Anxiety, Depression and Trauma and specialise in Addiction, Relationship Issues (Infidelity, Intimacy issues and compulsive sexual behaviour ), LGBTQIA+ and Neurodiversity (Autistic and ADHD clients ) . I believe that therapy should be tailored specially for your individual needs – whether depression, anxiety, self-esteem or PTSD – and I provide a relaxed, safe space where you can feel free to share your issues confidentially and without judgement.
Dafina Ganeva
I started my psychotherapy career as a volunteer of the bereavement team in St.Christopher’s hospice.
Oliver Fallon
I offer specialist therapy for eating disorders and OCD, on Zoom or face-to-face. I have extensive experience working in these areas in the NHS at South West London and St Georges NHS Mental Health Trust. For OCD I use CBT with ERP designed collaboratively with you to tackle your particular themes. For eating disorders we focus on stability using a meal plan and decoupling body image from food.
Samuel Smith
I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and practise in accordance with their Ethical Framework. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Existential Psychotherapy and Counselling from the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling, London. Alongside my clinical practice, I am engaged in doctoral research jointly with the New School and Middlesex University, exploring how gender shapes therapeutic relationships, particularly in the context of working with women who have experienced trauma. This ongoing work continues to deepen my commitment to a therapeutic practice that is inclusive, reflective and sensitive to the dynamics of power, identity and social context.
Vicki Power
Vicki is an integrative therapist working with individuals and couples
Claudia Behnke
I am a qualified couples counsellor and psychotherapist based in Westcliff-on-Sea (near Chalkwell Park), offering therapy in person and online via Zoom. I specialise in relationship counselling, attachment-based work, and relational patterns, helping couples and individuals improve communication, strengthen emotional connection, and navigate relationship challenges. My primary couples modality is Terry Real’s Relational Life Therapy (RLT), an evidence-based approach focused on accountability, emotional honesty, and building secure, respectful partnerships. I also have specialist experience working with codependency and love addiction, supporting clients to move out of unhealthy relational dynamics and develop healthier boundaries and self-worth. I work with a wide range of issues including relationship conflict, emotional disconnection, infidelity, trust issues, intimacy concerns, anxiety, self-esteem, identity transitions, and life stress. My practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming clients of all genders, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and cultural backgrounds. My integrative approach draws on Relational Life Therapy (RLT), trauma-informed therapy (Janina Fisher), Psychodynamic therapy, Imago relationship therapy, and Transpersonal psychology, allowing sessions to be tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.
Siobhan Maguire-Swartz
Whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, I am here to listen and support you. I will focus on you with care, compassion, empathy and a non-shaming approach. I work in an integrated way combining different techniques and approaches from a range of styles to best suit clients as we get to know each other. I tailor my approach to best suit your hopes and goals and (most importantly) to stay alongside you in your process. Counselling and Therapy is an organic, evolving, mutual, process where client and therapist collaborate in relationship to support growth. I adapt my style as the work progresses to help achieve your aims. Therapy can be difficult, it’s not a quick fix and it can be painful to look back at traumatic experiences, memories, or current difficulties. That is why I will go at your pace, paying close attention to your needs, staying in constant dialogue, pausing or slowing down when needed. It is important you feel secure within the confidential setting, to explore your issues, so that the work can help to safely heal and transform. I trained in the Humanistic style, meaning I integrate a range of psychotherapeutic theories including: Gestalt Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Person-Centred Therapy and Relational techniques. Having worked with my body as a dance artist for nearly 20 years, I am able to offer a more embodied, somatic-based approach if requested.
Manuel Navarro
I am a systemic and family psychotherapist with 20 years of experience working in mental health services in the NHS. I have worked with adolescents and adults who suffer from mental health or emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety and panic, and eating disorders. I also work with couples who are looking to improve their relationship, and I am registered with the Emotionally Focused Therapy Institute (ICEEFT). My approach to therapy recognises that the individual, as well as their family members all have strengths and strategies which can be used to overcome symptoms and difficulties. I am committed to empirical methods of therapy, and I offer systemic therapy including attachment, interpersonal neurobiology, NVR, and communication skills. Within my therapy framework I can meet with you individually, or with your family members, depending on your circumstances. You can contact me for a 30-minute free phone consultation, so that we can discuss whether we could work together towards your goals.
Luisa Kos
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist trained at WPF and Tavistock Relationships, and a registered member of the BACP. Since qualifying in 2015, I have worked with both couples and individuals in South London, offering short and long-term therapy in person and online. I founded Dulwich Psychotherapy and South London Therapy Group, where I run a private practice and manage therapy rooms that host a community of around 20 practitioners. Before retraining, I spent 15 years in advertising and publishing, holding senior roles in user experience in New York and London, which gives me a unique perspective on the challenges of high-pressure professional environments.
Billi Silverstein
Seeking therapy can be a complex journey, requiring both commitment and emotional investment. She believes that within a safe and empowering relationship everyone has the capacity to become agents of change.
Treatment for ADHD & Autism
ADHD treatment options
Therapy & behavioural interventions
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Helps with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and managing negative thought patterns.
- Behavioural coaching & executive function Support – Teaches organisation, time management, and coping skills.
- Parent training & support programmes – Helps parents understand ADHD and implement effective strategies for children.
- Social skills training – Supports individuals in developing better interpersonal relationships.
Medication for ADHD
Medication is often recommended for moderate to severe ADHD and can be highly effective in improving focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Common types include:
Lifestyle & self-help strategies
- Routine & structure – Keeping a daily schedule can improve focus and reduce forgetfulness.
- Exercise & movement – Regular physical activity can help regulate energy levels and improve concentration.
- Mindfulness & relaxation techniques – Breathing exercises and meditation can support emotional regulation.
- Diet & nutrition – While not a cure, a balanced diet can support brain function and overall well-being.
Autism treatment & support
Unlike ADHD, there are no medications that directly treat autism itself. Instead, therapy and personalised support strategies help individuals develop skills, manage sensory sensitivities, and improve communication.
Therapeutic interventions for Autism
- Speech & language therapy – Helps with communication skills, social interaction, and understanding verbal and non-verbal cues.
- Occupational therapy – Supports sensory regulation and daily living skills.
- Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) – A structured approach that teaches behavioural and social skills (though it is controversial and not suitable for everyone).
- Social skills training – Helps autistic individuals navigate social interactions and relationships.
Medication for Autism-Related challenges
While there’s no medication for autism itself, some medications can help manage co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or ADHD symptoms. Doctors may prescribe:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) – To help with anxiety or depression.
- Stimulants or Non-Stimulants – If the individual also has ADHD symptoms.
- Melatonin – To support sleep issues, which are common in autism.
Lifestyle & sensory support
- Creating predictable routines – Reduces anxiety and supports daily functioning.
- Using visual aids & timers – Helps with transitions and communication.
- Sensory-Friendly environments – Adjusting lighting, sound, and textures to minimise sensory overload.
- Self-Advocacy & support networks – Joining autism-friendly communities can provide emotional support and resources.
Finding the right support
Both ADHD and autism benefit from early intervention and ongoing personalised strategies. Whether through therapy, coaching, medication, or lifestyle adjustments, tailored support can empower individuals to thrive in their own way.