Autism counselling with Rachel Nelmes;Towards Change ltd

12/05/2026

EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance or Anxiety) doesn’t just affect the child, it can have a profound impact on parents and carers too. Believe me, I know!

Many parents find themselves carrying a constant mix of worry, guilt, and exhaustion. There can be pressure from schools, fear about attendance or legal consequences, and the emotional strain of seeing your child in distress day after day. It’s not uncommon for parents to feel isolated or judged, especially when others don’t fully understand what EBSA looks like behind closed doors.

Over time, this can take a toll on mental health, relationships, work, and overall wellbeing.
Parents often become the main source of regulation and support for their child, which is important but also incredibly demanding and draining without the right support around them.

If you feel you need support in living with a child experiencing EBSA get in touch.

10/05/2026

Research shows that higher rates of conditions like anxiety disorders and depression in autistic individuals are often linked to external factors such as chronic stress, social exclusion, sensory overload, and “masking” (the effort of hiding autistic traits to fit in).

In fact, when autistic people are in supportive environments where they don’t feel pressured to mask or conform, their mental health outcomes can improve dramatically. This has led to a growing shift toward approaches in neurodiversity, which emphasize acceptance and accommodation rather than trying to “fix” the individual.

So the key insight: it’s often the environment, not the autism, that plays the biggest role in autistic mental health.

10/05/2026

08/05/2026

Just a quick message to let you know I currently have a few spaces available for online sessions.

If you’ve been thinking about getting some support, this could be a good time to start. I offer a calm, understanding space where we can work through things at your pace.

Feel free to message me if you’d like more information or to book an initial session.

06/05/2026

01/05/2026

Thinking about starting therapy but unsure?

If you need it, I offer a free initial phone consultation.
No pressure, just a conversation.

Sometimes that first step is the hardest.

29/04/2026

27/04/2026

Looking for therapy that actually understands the autistic experience?

25/04/2026

Hearing that someone finally feels understood is at the heart of what I do 💚

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, especially if past experiences haven’t felt quite right. That’s why we focus on creating a space that is calm, respectful, and truly neurodivergent-affirming.

Everyone deserves to feel heard, without judgement and without pressure to be anything other than themselves.

If you’ve been thinking about therapy, this could be your sign to take that first step.

23/04/2026

I love highlighting organisations doing meaningful work in the neurodivergent community 💚

Seeking an autism diagnosis can feel like a big and sometimes overwhelming step... but the right support can make all the difference 💚

They offer a thoughtful, professional diagnostic service designed to help you gain clarity and understanding in a way that feels supportive and respectful.

A diagnosis isn’t about labels! It’s about insight, validation, and accessing the support that’s right for you.

If you’ve been considering an assessment, their team is a great place to start that journey.

Go check them out and the incredible work they’re doing 👏

21/04/2026

Unfortunately autistic people experience mental health challenges at significantly higher rates than the general population. Including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

This isn’t because of autism itself.
It’s often the result of:
• Feeling misunderstood
• Long-term masking
• Lack of appropriate support
• Sensory and social overwhelm

No one should have to carry that alone.

If you’re struggling, your experiences are valid and support that understands you does exist!

At Towards Change, I provide neurodivergent-affirming counselling where you don’t have to explain or justify who you are.

If you’re in crisis or need immediate support, please reach out:
📞 Samaritans (UK): 116 123 (24/7)
💬 Or speak to someone you trust

You deserve to feel safe, heard, and supported.