Autism Therapy 
in Sydney and the Sutherland Shire

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our team provides neurodiversity-affirming autism therapy and counselling for children, adolescents and adults across Sydney and the Sutherland Shire. Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice and online across Australia.

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We also provide autism assessments for adolescents aged 12+ and adults at our Menai practice and via telehealth across Australia.

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What is autism?

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Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that influences how a person processes information, experiences sensory input, and navigates communication and social interaction. It can affect daily life at school, work, in relationships and across routines, contributing to overwhelm, emotional regulation difficulties or fatigue from environments that don't align with how someone naturally thinks.

 

​Autism also involves strengths such as attention to detail, sustained focus, deep interests, honesty and persistence.

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How does autism present?

 

Autism can present in different ways, including:

 

• Communication and social interaction differences

• Sensory sensitivities

• Emotional regulation difficulties

• Challenges with transitions and change

• Executive functioning differences

• Focused interests

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Autism may overlap with ADHD, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders or trauma.

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How does autism present at different ages?

 

Autism presents differently depending on age, environment and life stage.

 

In children, therapy often focuses on emotional regulation, communication and navigating everyday environments, often alongside parents or caregivers.

 

In adolescents, therapy may centre on identity, school demands, friendships and increasing independence, alongside managing overwhelm and emotional intensity.

 

In adults, therapy often focuses on sensory differences, relationships, workplace demands and executive functioning. Many adults seek autism therapy after recognising longstanding patterns that have impacted different areas of life.

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Our approach

 

Our psychologists, counsellors and therapists have experience working with autistic children, adolescents and adults.

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Our approach is neurodiversity-affirming and adapted to each person's needs. Sessions may draw on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), neuro-affirming therapy and trauma-informed approaches, depending on what is most appropriate. We also offer Play and Art Therapy for younger clients.

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Autism is one of many areas we work with. See the full list of conditions we work with at our Menai practice.

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Our autism clinicians

 

Our team includes psychologists, counsellors and mental health clinicians with experience working with autistic children, adolescents and adults. You can read more about individual clinicians, their qualifications and areas of focus on our Our Team page.

Autism assessments are available for adolescents aged 12+ and adults. You can learn more about the assessment process, appointments and fees on our ADHD and Autism Assessments page.

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How do I find an autism therapist near me?

 

If you have been searching for autism therapy, autism counselling or an autism therapist near you, our team works with children, adolescents and adults across Sydney and the Sutherland Shire.

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Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice and online across Australia. We work with people from Menai, Miranda, Caringbah, Cronulla, Kirrawee, Engadine, Bangor, Illawong and surrounding areas.

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If you're unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or use the button below to request an appointment.