Autism Spectrum Disorder

We work with kids aged 3-18 on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their family members, guardians, and caregivers to provide top-class support and care.

I help clients who identify (either via past diagnosis or self-diagnosed) as neurodiverse, including individuals on the autism spectrum, highly sensitive individuals, and those form whom their senses and processing are heightened. If an individual is desiring additional assessment, I can help provide referrals. I can also help your partner or loved one understand more about how to support you.

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.

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.

I view Autism as a neuro-type, not as a disorder and have created a neuro-affirming autism assessment tool for clinicians, which is available on my website here: https://www.alydmft.com/psychotherapy-perspective/

Autistic folx often have difficulties getting out of their own heads and worry about how others are perceiving them. For a kid trying to find their place in the world, this can be extremely challenging to battle. I work through the social anxiety with my clients and determine what friendships matter. Being easily overwhelmed and shutting down is also common. I work with my autistic clients to identify their sensory triggers (if any) and how they can accommodate themselves at home or in public.

One of my specialties is neurodiverse individuals, including those who are, or suspect they might be, Asperger's, ASD-1, (aka an Aspie). There are many folks who were never discovered or diagnosed as a having Asperger's or ASD-1 as a child or teen. They tend to be highly intelligent, often great actors/musicians/artists, have high anxiety (general and social), are perfectionistic, have a hard time with relationships and socializing, & are very sensitive to their environment. Might this be you?

Same as ADHD, but also my approach focuses on authenticity, meaningful connection, and empowering clients to thrive in a world that often overlooks neurodiverse needs.

I specialize in testing for Autism and other neurodevelopmental differences. I can provide this testing virtually or in-office and offer testing for children/adolescents as well as adults. I provide comprehensive testing to differentiate possible autism from ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other explanations for traits you or your child might be experiencing.

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.

I work with all forms of neurodivergence and support couples and relationships to connect across the neurotypical/neurodivergent communication gap. I am well-versed in ADHD/ADD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, sensory processing issues, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and attachment struggles etc.

I have worked with people of all ages on the Autism Spectrum since I graduated from college. From there I worked with families and their children doing ABA therapy. However, it was never quite a fit for me, so I continued to graduate school in order to connect with people that was more natural for my personality in counseling. I have several people in my family diagnosed with Autism so this is a diagnosis near and dear to me both professionally and personally.

Autism doesn’t need to be fixed, but society at large hasn’t yet made space for this. The world is filled with sensory-overwhelming environments and neurotypical expectations so learning to mask is survival. But masking has a cost and can end in overload and burnout. What’s often left is the question: “Who am I?” I can help you learn to listen to your body, find what is healing to your nervous system, grieve past losses, and look toward the future of finding out who you really are.

Navigating a world that often feels out of sync with your needs is exhausting. Your therapy should feel like a sanctuary, not another source of stress. We will prioritize your comfort, well-being, and autonomy every step of the way as you undertake your journey towards authenticity and fulfilling relationships. (Eye contact is not required and stimming/movement is always welcome!)

In the UK, I had a clinical placement at a Specialist Asperger's Syndrome Service in which I provided post-diagnostic counseling to individuals diagnosed with Aspergers/ASD/ASC to help them come to understand their diagnosis and to better navigate the impact of their difference upon their lives. I also have significant experience supporting the partners of persons with Aspergers/ASD/ASC.

As a neurodiversity affirming therapist I highlight my clients strengths & respect the diverse ways in which their brains functions. I work hard to actively reduce the stigma neurodivergent individuals face and advocate promoting inclusivity for all. I teach food mood psychology and share that a gluten free diet may improve mood greatly.

I am an Autistic therapist who practices neurodivergence affirming care. I can assist with unmasking, navigating accommodations, self acceptance and more.

I have many years experience working with individuals, children through adulthood who been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum disorder. I am a certified Autism Informed Professional.

Many adults wonder if they have Autism or are neurodiverse because work isn't going well, relationships are a struggle, stress is difficult to manage or feel constantly burnt out and fatigued. 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.