About autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with differences in communication, social interaction and sensory processing. Professionals can carry out assessments and offer support adapted to each person and family, focused on wellbeing, autonomy and the environment rather than on “fixing” the person.
Neuropsychologists assess and rehabilitate memory, attention, language and other cognitive functions after brain injury, stroke or in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Getting mental health care in the United Kingdom
Public health system · National Health Service (NHS)
Psychological therapy for anxiety and depression is free through NHS Talking Therapies in England, which accepts self-referral or GP referral; more complex needs are referred by a GP to community mental health teams. Waiting times vary by area. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Titles such as practitioner psychologist, registered psychologist, clinical, counselling, educational, forensic, health, occupational and sport and exercise psychologist are protected and require HCPC registration. The bare word psychologist is not protected. Search the official register
- General Medical Council (GMC). Psychiatrists are doctors on the GMC register with a specialist entry in psychiatry. Search the official register
- Accredited Registers programme of the Professional Standards Authority (e.g. BACP, UKCP). Counsellor and psychotherapist are not protected titles; check membership of a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority. Search the official register
Urgent help in the United Kingdom
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 112 · Emergencias
- 116 123 · Samaritans
- Shout
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: hcpc-uk.org, regulated-professions.service.gov.uk
Signs to look out for
Autism is a lifelong difference in how a person communicates, relates and processes the world, not an illness. Signs that may prompt an assessment include differences in social communication, such as eye contact, conversation or understanding unspoken rules; strong, focused interests; a need for routine; and sensory sensitivities to noise, light or textures. In girls and adults these signs are often less obvious.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Assessment is usually carried out by specialised teams or professionals such as clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists or paediatricians. Support focuses on the person’s needs and strengths: speech therapy for communication, occupational therapy for sensory and daily-living needs, educational support, and parent-mediated programmes. Psychologists can help with anxiety, emotional regulation and social situations, using approaches adapted to autistic people.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help if an autistic child or adult is at risk of harming themselves or others, goes missing, has a sudden loss of skills, stops eating or drinking, or expresses thoughts of suicide, which can be under-recognised in autistic people. In any situation of risk to life, contact your local emergency services and explain the person’s needs so responders can adapt.
What you can do in the meantime
Predictable routines, visual schedules and advance notice of changes can reduce stress. Pay attention to sensory needs, such as quiet spaces or headphones, and respect the need for recovery time after social activity. Learn about autism from reliable sources, including autistic voices. Connect with family associations or peer groups, and be cautious with programmes that promise to cure autism.
What does a neuropsychologist do?
A neuropsychologist studies how the brain relates to thinking and behaviour. Day to day they carry out detailed assessments of memory, attention, language, planning and other cognitive functions using standardised tests, write reports, and design rehabilitation or stimulation programmes. They work with people after a stroke or brain injury, with neurodegenerative or neurodevelopmental conditions, and with their families and medical teams.
When to see a neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist can help when there are noticeable changes in memory, concentration, language or behaviour, after a head injury or stroke, with concerns about cognitive decline, or to clarify learning or attention difficulties. They are also useful to plan rehabilitation and adapt daily life. If the concern is mainly emotional, a psychologist may fit better; medical causes need a neurologist.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in the United Kingdom cover psychological care?
Psychological therapy for anxiety and depression is free through NHS Talking Therapies in England, which accepts self-referral or GP referral; more complex needs are referred by a GP to community mental health teams. Waiting times vary by area.
How do I check that a neuropsychologist is licensed in the United Kingdom?
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC): Titles such as practitioner psychologist, registered psychologist, clinical, counselling, educational, forensic, health, occupational and sport and exercise psychologist are protected and require HCPC registration. The bare word psychologist is not protected.