Autism-Informed Counselling and Psychotherapy in Edinburgh and Online
Support that meets you as you are – not who the world expects you to be.
If you’re autistic – or exploring whether you might be – you’ve likely spent a lifetime navigating a world that can feel overwhelming, confusing, or just not made for you. Whether you’ve received a recent diagnosis, self-identify, or are still questioning, you’re not alone.
At Room for Therapy, we offer autism-informed counselling and psychotherapy – affirming, respectful spaces where you can feel understood, supported, and safe to be yourself. Our approach isn’t about changing who you are. It’s about helping you connect with your needs, reduce burnout, and build a more sustainable life on your terms.
We also offer thoughtfully designed therapy rooms with sensory considerations in mind, and online sessions for flexible access.
Understanding Autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how you process information, experience emotions and sensory input, and relate to others. It’s not a problem to be fixed – it’s a different way of being.
Autistic adults often experience:
Sensory sensitivities or overload
Difficulty navigating social situations or expectations
Fatigue from masking or trying to appear “neurotypical”
Deep focus or intense interests
A strong sense of fairness, empathy, or justice
Challenges with transitions, routines, or uncertainty
Autism exists on a spectrum, and no two autistic people are exactly the same. We respect that diversity and meet each person with curiosity and care – not assumptions.
Many of the clients we support have received a diagnosis in adulthood or identify as autistic without a formal label. If you’re still exploring this part of yourself, therapy can be a safe place to do so.
According to the National Autistic Society, at least 1 in 100 people in the UK are autistic – though many remain undiagnosed or unsupported, especially women, non-binary people, and those assigned female at birth.
Why Autistic Adults Seek Therapy
You might be feeling:
Burnt out from years of masking or sensory overload
Anxious, low in mood, or struggling with self-esteem
Misunderstood or isolated in relationships
Confused by a new or late diagnosis
Unsure how to advocate for your needs at work or in life
Curious about your identity, including gender or neurodivergence
Therapy doesn’t assume anything about your goals. It’s a place to explore whatever’s on your mind, at your pace, in a way that feels manageable and meaningful
Our Approach to Autism-Informed Therapy
We offer counselling and psychotherapy for autistic adults that is neurodivergent-affirming, trauma-informed, and flexible to your needs.
Here’s what that might look like:
A therapist who understands sensory and communication differences
Sessions that adapt to your preferences (e.g. no pressure to make eye contact or speak in a certain way)
Support with co-occurring issues like anxiety, stress, or past trauma
Space to reflect on your experiences – including the impact of late diagnosis or misdiagnosis
Tools to manage emotional overwhelm or protect your energy
Exploring your identity in ways that feel safe and validating
You do not need a formal diagnosis to access therapy with us. We work with people who are diagnosed, self-identified, or still exploring whether autism is part of their experience.
What to Expect from our Sessions
There’s no one right way to “do” therapy. We follow your lead. Sessions might involve:
Talking, sitting in silence, writing or using visuals – whatever works for you
Creating a structure or routine for sessions (or keeping things open-ended)
Working through life transitions, work stress or burnout
Gaining clarity about your needs, boundaries, or self-understanding
Releasing internalised shame or pressure to mask
Our therapists are neurotypical but bring both lived and professional experience of working closely with autism. Many have received direct feedback from clients about how helpful this blend of understanding and perspective can be.
You Deserve Therapy That Sees You
You’ve likely spent a lot of time adapting to the world. Therapy can be a space where the world adapts to you – where you don’t have to explain, justify, or hide who you are.
At Room for Therapy, we’re here to walk alongside you – with empathy, curiosity, and deep respect for your lived experience. Whether you’re seeking support for specific challenges or simply want a place to feel more connected to yourself, we welcome you.
Learn more about our Counselling and Psychotherapy in Edinburgh and Online
Contact us to take the next step.
FAQs
If you're considering therapy, it's natural to have questions. Below are answers to some of the most common queries about our approach and what to expect. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to get in touch.
Do I need a diagnosis to access autism-informed therapy?
No diagnosis is needed. Many clients we work with are self-identified or exploring whether they may be autistic. We’re here to support you wherever you are on that path.
Is this therapy suitable for people who are newly diagnosed or unsure if they’re autistic?
Yes. Therapy can help you process a new diagnosis, make sense of past experiences, or explore your identity. There’s no pressure to have all the answers – just a space to reflect, explore and be supported.
Can I do sessions online if in-person isn’t comfortable for me?
Absolutely. We offer therapy both in-person at our Edinburgh practice and online. We’re happy to adapt to your preferences and discuss ways to make sessions feel more accessible.
What do you mean by ‘autism-informed’ therapy?
It means our therapists understand autism not as something to fix, but as a valid and meaningful way of experiencing the world. We offer flexible, respectful support that takes sensory needs, communication styles, and processing preferences into account.
Will I have to talk about things I’m not comfortable with?
Not at all. We go at your pace, and you’ll never be pushed to talk about anything before you’re ready. The focus is on what matters most to you – and we’ll work in a way that feels safe and respectful.