Simon Halford
BSc MSc Dip Psychotherapy, Dip Psychosexual Therapy
Couples Therapy, Psychosexual / Sex Therapy in Central London, Southampton, and Portsmouth
I am a Psychosexual Therapist and an accredited Supervisor. I have worked in the NHS and privately for more than 25 years and am accredited by the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) .
I specialise in the treatment of sexual and relationship issues using a range of approaches to meet the individual, couple's or family's needs. I practice counselling at 96 Harley Street Central London and in Southsea, near to Portsmouth and Southampton.
Therapy is strictly confidential, and includes psychodynamic, person centred and cognitive behavioural approaches.
Getting Started
Typically you would have an initial assessment where mutual suitability can be established, the issue or issues you would like to work on can be discussed, as well as the frequency and number of sessions you might need. Any queries or questions you might have can also be addressed at this time. The cost of a session ranges from £100 to £150 and can be done face-to-face or online depending on location; concessions are available.
Through counselling and therapy I aim to provide a safe environment and practical solutions for exploring and addressing sensitive sexual and relational problems for individuals and couples.
The issues I treat include erectile dysfunction, pain during intercourse, loss of libido (sexual desire) and the impact of serious illnesses including cancer, strokes and cardiovascular issues on sexual function and relationships. I have a particular interest in:
- Neurodiversity, including ADHD and autism
- Addictions, including sexual addictions such as pornography addiction
- General addictions and how they impact on relationships
- Cultural difference in couples and families
Please feel free to contact me by telephone on 07984 830449. Please leave a message stating your name and number if I am not available to answer, and your call will be returned as soon as possible. Be assured that all messages are dealt with in a sensitive and strictly confidential manner.
Client Testimonial
"We had been reluctant to seek help - and Simon was pretty much our first experience of therapy. From the moment we met, I felt that we were in the safest possible hands. Simon had a wonderfully avuncular manner, is extremely kind, and is generous with his guidance. We dealt with highly sensitive and at times acutely painful issues but somehow Simon's skills enables us to leave his room lighter than when we arrived." A & S
Blog: February 2025
Understanding the Impact of Neurodiversity on Relationships and Sexual Well-Being
The increasing recognition of neurodiversity, particularly ADHD and autism, is a positive step toward providing better support. Diagnoses are now more common in adults and occur earlier in children, allowing individuals to navigate life’s complexities with greater awareness. However, one crucial aspect often overlooked is how these conditions affect relationships and sexual well-being.
Three Essential Domains of Psychosexual Well-Being
My approach to psychosexual treatment focuses on three interconnected domains:
1. Physical Domain – Biological and physiological factors affecting intimacy.
2. Psychological Domain – Mental health, emotional regulation, and self-perception.
3. Relational Domain – Communication, connection, and interaction with partners.Neurodiversity influences all three areas, shaping personal and interpersonal experiences.
ADHD and Its Effect on Relationships
ADHD symptoms impact intimacy in several ways.
1. Inattentiveness – Forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, and disorganization may cause misunderstandings in relationships.
2. Hyperactivity & Impulsivity – Excessive talking, interrupting, and risk-taking can strain emotional and sexual connections.
3. Emotional Regulation – Heightened emotions may create challenges in conflict resolution and maintaining stability in relationships.These traits can make partners feel neglected or overwhelmed, necessitating strategies for improved communication and connection.
Autism and Its Effect on Relationships
Autism presents unique challenges in relationships due to differences in communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. Individuals with autism may struggle with understanding nonverbal cues, expressing emotions, and maintaining reciprocity in conversations. Sensory sensitivities can also impact physical intimacy, requiring patience and open discussions with partners. While these challenges exist, many autistic individuals thrive in relationships by fostering clear communication, establishing routines, and embracing mutual understanding.Co-Occurring Conditions
ADHD and Autism often coexist with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and learning difficulties. These factors further affect self-esteem, stress management, and the ability to maintain fulfilling relationships.Moving Forward
Understanding the impact of neurodiversity on relationships is crucial for fostering healthy connections. With professional guidance, individuals can develop strategies to enhance intimacy, improve communication, and navigate relationships with confidence. Seeking therapeutic support can be a transformative step toward a more fulfilling relational and sexual life.
