Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder, typically emerging in childhood, which affects a patient’s ability to effectively socialize, solve problems and communicate. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives while others need less. Therapists qualified in the treatment of Autism spectrum disorder can also help to diagnose it, as well as work with the individual on their social skills, help them learn to control emotions and address repetitive behaviors, among other things. If you or your child has received a diagnosis of Autism (or you suspect one may be forthcoming), contact one of our specialists today for support.

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Meet the specialists

 

I work with many neurodivergent clients to help empower them to live a life that accommodates them and helps them thrive. I have lived experience as a neurodivergent person. Nearly all the clients who work with me identify on the ND spectrum, including ASD and ADHD. I am invigorated by my work with my fantastic ND clients, and I learn more from them everyday.

— Caitlin Miller, Counselor in Northbrook, IL

Needs are hard to understand when society has decided what's appropriate and what's not ahead of time. Autistics can feel misunderstood and too much which can shut them down. I can help you learn to recognize your needs and how to advocate for them.

— Ikenna Lughna, Mental Health Counselor
 

Neurodivergence, executive functioning, and autism are central to my approach as a therapist. I work both to keep this topic in-mind when considering identity, capacity, and other such topics, but also when working through prior trauma. Neurodivergence often means alienation, neglect, and guilt, and I work to process these feelings with clients.

— Jack Harmelin, Licensed Master of Social Work in Philadelphia, PA

I enjoy working with autistic and neurodiverse folks. My approach is a strength based approach and together we can explore and validate your inner experiences. The goal for me is not to help you conform to “neurotypical expectations”. It is to help explore your authentic self. I also conduct a group with adults who identify as queer and neurodivergent.

— Cynthia Brown, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
 

I provide neuro-affirming care for anyone who identifies as neurodivergent (for example, autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or OCD neurotypes). This work may focus on personal identity, healing from harmful interventions experienced in childhood, burnout, masking, or relationships, but most importantly we will focus on whatever feels most helpful to you.

— Jonathan Benko, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Santa Cruz, CA

Many adults wonder if they have Aspergers or Autism because work isn't going well, relationships are a struggle & stress is difficult to manage. Understanding how your brain & body works is the most important way to move forward. We can work together to determine if you are neurodiverse & to find your niche vocationally as well as building confidence in relationships.

— Kathleen Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
 

Neurodivergence, executive functioning, and autism are central to my approach as a therapist. I work both to keep this topic in-mind when considering identity, capacity, and other such topics, but also when working through prior trauma.

— Jack Harmelin, Licensed Master of Social Work in Philadelphia, PA

I am an expert in the field of evaluating and treating those on the Autism spectrum, especially adult female-bodied individuals. As an adult woman on the spectrum myself, I understand the unique difficulties that come with being Autistic or neuro-divergent in this neuro-typical world.

— Dolly Ferraiuolo, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Clearwater, FL
 

As an Autistic person I continue to learn more about the experience of Autistic people through reading lived experience accounts every day. I believe it is essential to understand Autism from those of us who live as Autistic humans. My experience is my own and while I cannot relate to every single Autistic experience, I have found connecting with Autistic clients is different from what I've been told their experience was with previous non-Autistic therapists.

— Cherish Graff, Licensed Professional Counselor

Missed diagnosis, AFAB missed diagnosis, late diagnosis, Autistic self-advocacy, self-acceptance, self-compassion.

— Jacqueline Hynes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX

I am an autistic therapist offering diagnostic interviews and therapy. Some people meet me for 1-2 visits for diagnosis and some continue for therapy sessions. My approach is focused on autistic needs and strengths. I am against ABA and any coercive therapies that attempt to make autistic people appear neurotypical. I work with adults of all ages in states where I am licensed: OR, WA, NY, FL, ME. I have many years of experience with neurodivergent people including ADHD, OCD, Bipolar, TBI.

— Kate McNulty, Clinical Social Worker in ,
 

I believe that my lived experience as autistic and neurodivergent supports my therapeutic approach when working with clients.

— Auden O'Connell, Art Therapist in Minneapolis, MN

As an autistic and ADHD therapist, I am aware of autism and how it can impact a person. My goal is to help my clients through a neurodivergent affirming approach to help them accept their diagnosis and find a way to integrate it into their life and find pride in it. I also help with finding coping skills to make life as an autistic individual easier.

— Aika Shinkawa, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Dallas, TX
 

Late diagnosis can bring about many difficult feelings including grief. Through work on unmasking and identity, my hope is to support you in beginning to live life authentically and in a way that creates safety in previously difficult situations.

— Sharon Aguilar, Art Therapist in Dallas, TX

#actuallyautistic and #autisticwhileblack, It is absolutely ridiculous how ableist the current diagnostic system is toward autistic individuals. Most of the treatment and therapy options have surrounded forcing the individual to conform to society instead of asking society to make changes. Also, allistic therapists have caught on to the hashtag so, that means there will be some preliminary questions. 1. Have you seen avatar? 2. Mass Effect? 3. Skyrim? 4. Star Trek? 5. Samefoods?

— Derrick Hoard, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in , WA
 

Anxiety and depression commonly co-occur with a diagnosis of autism. Yet, finding a therapist that adapts to your needs can be challenging. If you would like specific accommodations, we can work together to find a specific therapeutic approach that works for you. Here are examples of what we can do: - use written or visual tools - build-in breaks - involve someone else with whom you feel safe - incorporate activities or topics of your choice

— Margaret Rau, Psychotherapist in New York City, NY