Autism Therapists in Guelph, ON
Stacey Molengraaf
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Accepting New Clients. 'Everything, all at once, everywhere' and 'it's like a salad bar,' are two of my favorite phrases about ADH(D) and Autism. The first captures the sometimes chaotic, sometimes invigorating nature of ADH(D). The second, captures the vast diversity of the Autistic experience. Being an ADH(D)er, Autistic person, or both, AuDH(D)er, brings many strengths, and due to living in a world not designed for our brains, many challenges. Perhaps you keep burning out in a boom/bust cycle. Perhaps you blame yourself for struggling to do things the way you "should." Perhaps the demands of work, school or home are overwhelming.
Accepting New Clients. 'Everything, all at once, everywhere' and 'it's like a salad bar,' are two of my favorite phrases about ADH(D) and Autism. The first captures the sometimes chaotic, sometimes invigorating nature of ADH(D). The second, captures the vast diversity of the Autistic experience. Being an ADH(D)er, Autistic person, or both, AuDH(D)er, brings many strengths, and due to living in a world not designed for our brains, many challenges. Perhaps you keep burning out in a boom/bust cycle. Perhaps you blame yourself for struggling to do things the way you "should." Perhaps the demands of work, school or home are overwhelming.
Andrew Vu - The Adhd And Spectrum Centre
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I specialize in ADHD & Autism Lvl. 1 and also have experience working with social & general anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal feelings, substance abuse, video game addiction, stress, and relationship concerns (family, romantic, and friendships). Working with neurodivergent kids, adults, couples, & families is very important to me because I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and struggled a lot without proper support. I get how frustrating navigating the mental health and education systems can be and want to support others in learning to harness their amazing abilities and make lasting positive change.
I specialize in ADHD & Autism Lvl. 1 and also have experience working with social & general anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal feelings, substance abuse, video game addiction, stress, and relationship concerns (family, romantic, and friendships). Working with neurodivergent kids, adults, couples, & families is very important to me because I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and struggled a lot without proper support. I get how frustrating navigating the mental health and education systems can be and want to support others in learning to harness their amazing abilities and make lasting positive change.
Gudrun van Amerom
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H (Online Only)
I have a special interest in chronic illness and a background supporting those who experience an Autism Spectrum Disorder and co-occurring mental health challenges.
The need for connection emerges from our very core. Though we are social beings, when our core is wounded or in pain, we may instinctively attempt to protect ourselves, even from our nearest and dearest companions. Whether we’re going through a particularly challenging time in life or facing our usual day-to-day stressors, counselling can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle. I work with children, youth and adults learning to: respond skillfully to emotional distress; adjust to expected and unexpected life transitions; process grief and loss; and manage parenting demands and expectations.
I have a special interest in chronic illness and a background supporting those who experience an Autism Spectrum Disorder and co-occurring mental health challenges.
The need for connection emerges from our very core. Though we are social beings, when our core is wounded or in pain, we may instinctively attempt to protect ourselves, even from our nearest and dearest companions. Whether we’re going through a particularly challenging time in life or facing our usual day-to-day stressors, counselling can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle. I work with children, youth and adults learning to: respond skillfully to emotional distress; adjust to expected and unexpected life transitions; process grief and loss; and manage parenting demands and expectations.
Hayley Ratcliffe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G
I typically find myself working with younger people who struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, and BPD.
Much of my work is geared towards working with each client to align best with individual needs. I like to be lighthearted and use humor in my practice. I also call myself a Gen Z therapist. My educational background of an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies has profoundly shaped my perspective and provided me with an intersectional feminist lens to work with a diverse group of people.
I typically find myself working with younger people who struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, and BPD.
Much of my work is geared towards working with each client to align best with individual needs. I like to be lighthearted and use humor in my practice. I also call myself a Gen Z therapist. My educational background of an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies has profoundly shaped my perspective and provided me with an intersectional feminist lens to work with a diverse group of people.
Elizabeth Granby
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G
Do you ever feel like things are just piling up around you and you can’t keep up? Or that you give until there is nothing left? Working in the field of autism support for the past 13 years and primarily supporting my sibling with autism, I know that feeling too well. As a therapist, I can support you with caregiver burnout and stress. I am passionate about providing neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming care. Many of my clients are seeking support understanding and working with neurodiversity. I also have a personal connection to bariatric surgery and disordered eating and would love to help others going through the same journey.
Do you ever feel like things are just piling up around you and you can’t keep up? Or that you give until there is nothing left? Working in the field of autism support for the past 13 years and primarily supporting my sibling with autism, I know that feeling too well. As a therapist, I can support you with caregiver burnout and stress. I am passionate about providing neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming care. Many of my clients are seeking support understanding and working with neurodiversity. I also have a personal connection to bariatric surgery and disordered eating and would love to help others going through the same journey.
Balance Counselling Guelph
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or experiencing caregiver burnout? I hear you + am here to support. I have 17 years of experience supporting the neurodiverse community and specialize in caregivers + parent + couples counselling with a focus on diagnoses such as ADHD, Autism, Cognitive Impairments, Developmental Delay, and Dementia. I am here to provide compassionate counselling, guideance and resources toward reducing your stress and increasing your coping strategies toward the balance you desire.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or experiencing caregiver burnout? I hear you + am here to support. I have 17 years of experience supporting the neurodiverse community and specialize in caregivers + parent + couples counselling with a focus on diagnoses such as ADHD, Autism, Cognitive Impairments, Developmental Delay, and Dementia. I am here to provide compassionate counselling, guideance and resources toward reducing your stress and increasing your coping strategies toward the balance you desire.
As a therapist specializing in ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and related conditions, I offer compassionate, tailored support to individuals and families.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with two decades of experience working with children, youth, and their families. My background in neuroscience and behavioural psychology allow me to incorporate a multifaceted approach to enhancing the lives of my clients and their families. My approach is a trauma-informed, non-judgmental, neurodiversity-affirming approach, with an emphasis on creating trust, safety, and a strong alliance in the therapeutic relationship. I hope to support you on your therapeutic journey.
As a therapist specializing in ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and related conditions, I offer compassionate, tailored support to individuals and families.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with two decades of experience working with children, youth, and their families. My background in neuroscience and behavioural psychology allow me to incorporate a multifaceted approach to enhancing the lives of my clients and their families. My approach is a trauma-informed, non-judgmental, neurodiversity-affirming approach, with an emphasis on creating trust, safety, and a strong alliance in the therapeutic relationship. I hope to support you on your therapeutic journey.
Lauren Hird | Autism & ADHD Counselling
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1E (Online Only)
As a fellow complex human with ADHD and Autism, I frequently support diagnosed and self-realized neurodivergent folks.
Regardless of the challenges that bring you to counselling, I want you to know that you aren't broken and you don't need to be fixed. You are a complex human and there are parts of you that may need more support and more compassion. Together we will create a space to hold whatever parts YOU feel need your time, gentle curiosity, attention and care. I work with teens, parents and adults through a relational, trauma-informed, neurodivergent affirming, and anti-oppressive lens. My approach is eclectic, working from a variety of modalities, techniques and frameworks, to ensure your sessions honour your autonomy and your unique needs.
As a fellow complex human with ADHD and Autism, I frequently support diagnosed and self-realized neurodivergent folks.
Regardless of the challenges that bring you to counselling, I want you to know that you aren't broken and you don't need to be fixed. You are a complex human and there are parts of you that may need more support and more compassion. Together we will create a space to hold whatever parts YOU feel need your time, gentle curiosity, attention and care. I work with teens, parents and adults through a relational, trauma-informed, neurodivergent affirming, and anti-oppressive lens. My approach is eclectic, working from a variety of modalities, techniques and frameworks, to ensure your sessions honour your autonomy and your unique needs.
ADHD and ASD Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist, MScOT
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Sierra, and I am a registered occupational therapist (OT) whose practice focuses on supporting neurodivergent children, teens, and adults with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, and mental health challenges. I approach traditional psychotherapy through an OT lens by focusing on identifying and addressing barriers to function, such as executive function, emotional and self-regulation, and interpersonal skills. By integrating psychotherapeutic techniques—including cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, and coaching—with OT, I create practical, measurable, and meaningful change.
Hi, I'm Sierra, and I am a registered occupational therapist (OT) whose practice focuses on supporting neurodivergent children, teens, and adults with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, and mental health challenges. I approach traditional psychotherapy through an OT lens by focusing on identifying and addressing barriers to function, such as executive function, emotional and self-regulation, and interpersonal skills. By integrating psychotherapeutic techniques—including cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, and coaching—with OT, I create practical, measurable, and meaningful change.
While my clinical work is varied, I work closely with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety and those with developmental disorders (including autism spectrum disorders).
I am a clinical psychologist working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families. I have provided a range of psychological services to children/youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges in schools, community mental health agencies, and hospitals. I strive to build trusting relationships with those whom I support and understand the complexities associated with acknowledging difficulties and seeking assistance. I work with individuals on developing their skills to better achieve their goals, and work collaboratively with others (i.e., professionals/schools) to ensure meaningful change.
While my clinical work is varied, I work closely with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety and those with developmental disorders (including autism spectrum disorders).
I am a clinical psychologist working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families. I have provided a range of psychological services to children/youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges in schools, community mental health agencies, and hospitals. I strive to build trusting relationships with those whom I support and understand the complexities associated with acknowledging difficulties and seeking assistance. I work with individuals on developing their skills to better achieve their goals, and work collaboratively with others (i.e., professionals/schools) to ensure meaningful change.
I am an ADHD/ Autism specialized Psychotherapist/Coach as well as an Asst. Adj. Clinical Psych & Neuroscience Professor. Myself and the other practitioners at The ADHD & Spectrum Centre offer in-person services in Guelph/Ottawa and virtual services across Canada and internationally. I love working with families, individuals, and couples seeking to understand ADHD & ASD in their lives, and working to master everything from organization to impulse control. My own diagnoses of Autism & ADHD help me fight for my clients every day and have equipped me with a diverse set of strategies in my toolkit that are personalized for each client.
I am an ADHD/ Autism specialized Psychotherapist/Coach as well as an Asst. Adj. Clinical Psych & Neuroscience Professor. Myself and the other practitioners at The ADHD & Spectrum Centre offer in-person services in Guelph/Ottawa and virtual services across Canada and internationally. I love working with families, individuals, and couples seeking to understand ADHD & ASD in their lives, and working to master everything from organization to impulse control. My own diagnoses of Autism & ADHD help me fight for my clients every day and have equipped me with a diverse set of strategies in my toolkit that are personalized for each client.
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Crystal Seo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1L
I specialize in counseling parents of children on the autism spectrum navigate the complexities of raising a child with ASD.
Navigating challenges is rarely straightforward and seeking support is an act of courage. I am a psychotherapist (qualifying) with a deep commitment to supporting diverse populations, including parents of children with ASD, neurodiverse clients, military families, and transracial adoptees. I am a strong advocate of mental health awareness and counsel through a culturally respectful lens. As a neurodiverse practitioner and parent, I provide a validating and empowering environment to explore your identity and develop effective strategies that embrace neurodiversity.
I specialize in counseling parents of children on the autism spectrum navigate the complexities of raising a child with ASD.
Navigating challenges is rarely straightforward and seeking support is an act of courage. I am a psychotherapist (qualifying) with a deep commitment to supporting diverse populations, including parents of children with ASD, neurodiverse clients, military families, and transracial adoptees. I am a strong advocate of mental health awareness and counsel through a culturally respectful lens. As a neurodiverse practitioner and parent, I provide a validating and empowering environment to explore your identity and develop effective strategies that embrace neurodiversity.
Our specialized assessment team has supported thousands of students with Learning Disabilities, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Giftedness, and a variety of commonly co-occurring emotional and behavioural concerns (e.
Members of FLEX Psychology's Psychoeducational Clinic have been supporting learners for over 15 years and have become one of the most referred to clinics in Ontario by independent schools and allied health professionals. FLEX assessments integrate a full range of psychoeducational testing and a thorough examination of your and your child's social and emotional well being. We look at the whole learner, focusing not only on identifying areas of concern, but better understanding a learners strengths. By focusing on a strengths based approach, we can help build an approach to learning that can move all students forward.
Our specialized assessment team has supported thousands of students with Learning Disabilities, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Giftedness, and a variety of commonly co-occurring emotional and behavioural concerns (e.
Members of FLEX Psychology's Psychoeducational Clinic have been supporting learners for over 15 years and have become one of the most referred to clinics in Ontario by independent schools and allied health professionals. FLEX assessments integrate a full range of psychoeducational testing and a thorough examination of your and your child's social and emotional well being. We look at the whole learner, focusing not only on identifying areas of concern, but better understanding a learners strengths. By focusing on a strengths based approach, we can help build an approach to learning that can move all students forward.
I have additional education in ADHD and Autism therapy and lived experience as an ADHDer.
Are you struggling with the demands of life? Do you have a low mood, or big shifts in your mood? Do you find you are very critical of yourself but find compassion for others? Do you often feel misunderstood? I can help you explore these experiences and co-create meaning and solutions that suit you. I am also now providing support for couples in conflict and have a particular focus on ADHD-impacted relationships. You don't have to be in crisis to seek help. We can start now!
I have additional education in ADHD and Autism therapy and lived experience as an ADHDer.
Are you struggling with the demands of life? Do you have a low mood, or big shifts in your mood? Do you find you are very critical of yourself but find compassion for others? Do you often feel misunderstood? I can help you explore these experiences and co-create meaning and solutions that suit you. I am also now providing support for couples in conflict and have a particular focus on ADHD-impacted relationships. You don't have to be in crisis to seek help. We can start now!
Carla Barbosa
Registered Social Worker, MSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Some of my areas of expertise are sexual orientation and gender identity investigations, coping strategies for depression and anxiety, and late diagnosis of neurodivergence ( Autism, gifted, ADHD).
Life can be messy, random, and stressful. Yet, it can be breathtaking, fulfilling, and remarkable. The unpredictability of our human experiences can make our lives unravel and destabilize. My great passion is to create space for people who are overwhelmed by life and help them find their way to safety and wellness. I am a queer, cisgender, woman and I have experienced episodes of mental unwellness myself. My personal experiences allow me to connect with others from a place of empathy and profound respect for their strengths.
Some of my areas of expertise are sexual orientation and gender identity investigations, coping strategies for depression and anxiety, and late diagnosis of neurodivergence ( Autism, gifted, ADHD).
Life can be messy, random, and stressful. Yet, it can be breathtaking, fulfilling, and remarkable. The unpredictability of our human experiences can make our lives unravel and destabilize. My great passion is to create space for people who are overwhelmed by life and help them find their way to safety and wellness. I am a queer, cisgender, woman and I have experienced episodes of mental unwellness myself. My personal experiences allow me to connect with others from a place of empathy and profound respect for their strengths.
Marni Moss
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1E (Online Only)
The path to healing is not linear and often it can be difficult to navigate alone. Whether you're experiencing anxious thoughts or feelings, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma or looking for support with ADHD, Autism or other neurodiversity, together we can build your healing journey that best supports your individual needs. I view the therapeutic relationship as a key component to change, and take a collaborative approach with clients to establish goals that are achievable, personally relevant, and meaningful.
The path to healing is not linear and often it can be difficult to navigate alone. Whether you're experiencing anxious thoughts or feelings, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma or looking for support with ADHD, Autism or other neurodiversity, together we can build your healing journey that best supports your individual needs. I view the therapeutic relationship as a key component to change, and take a collaborative approach with clients to establish goals that are achievable, personally relevant, and meaningful.
Wellington Music Therapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MTA, MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1E
We believe in the unique power of music to form life-changing relationships, and are committed to a high quality of care that is adaptable, evidence-based, and built with respect through collaboration. Our team of Certified Music Therapists and Registered Psychotherapists are proud to serve clients across Southern Ontario – through strong community partnerships and relationships with clients and their families. Our mission is to provide access to evidence-based music therapy services to clients across the age and abilities spectrum. We provide both Individual and Group Music Psychotherapy services, in person and online.
We believe in the unique power of music to form life-changing relationships, and are committed to a high quality of care that is adaptable, evidence-based, and built with respect through collaboration. Our team of Certified Music Therapists and Registered Psychotherapists are proud to serve clients across Southern Ontario – through strong community partnerships and relationships with clients and their families. Our mission is to provide access to evidence-based music therapy services to clients across the age and abilities spectrum. We provide both Individual and Group Music Psychotherapy services, in person and online.
"A difficult life is not less worth living than a gentle one. Joy is simply easier to carry than sorrow." This quote from poet Andrea Gibson perfectly captures my approach to working with other humans. I am a firm believer that therapists are not experts, but people trained to safely share the burden of carrying sorrow, grief, and emotional wounds. It may seem impossible to find meaning in the context of the experiences you've lived, but together we can breathe and find a way to continue moving through life.
"A difficult life is not less worth living than a gentle one. Joy is simply easier to carry than sorrow." This quote from poet Andrea Gibson perfectly captures my approach to working with other humans. I am a firm believer that therapists are not experts, but people trained to safely share the burden of carrying sorrow, grief, and emotional wounds. It may seem impossible to find meaning in the context of the experiences you've lived, but together we can breathe and find a way to continue moving through life.
Kat Garland
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1G (Online Only)
You might feel as though you are living in a world that was not built for you. You might feel things deeply or struggle with self-compassion. You may be looking for a someone who appreciates that your anxiety might show up in therapy. If you relate to any of this, I might be the right person to support you. I spend the time building a connection with each person on their own terms and I'm willing to step into your world. I have a casual, conversational style and show up as my authentic self so you feel comfortable to do so too. I work with a diverse range of people, but am particularly experienced working with ADHDers & autistics.
You might feel as though you are living in a world that was not built for you. You might feel things deeply or struggle with self-compassion. You may be looking for a someone who appreciates that your anxiety might show up in therapy. If you relate to any of this, I might be the right person to support you. I spend the time building a connection with each person on their own terms and I'm willing to step into your world. I have a casual, conversational style and show up as my authentic self so you feel comfortable to do so too. I work with a diverse range of people, but am particularly experienced working with ADHDers & autistics.
Monica Goulet
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H (Online Only)
If you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, relationship issues, trauma, or marginalization, you may find hope and empowerment through therapy. As a queer, non-binary therapist, I focus on social justice and how oppression can both impact you and be resisted on a personal level. I will support you to work with overwhelming emotions so that they don’t control you or damage your relationships, and instead guide you towards a more fulfilling life. Through a supportive and collaborative relationship, we can deeply understand your experiences, help you heal from their impacts, and work towards your hopes for your life.
If you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, relationship issues, trauma, or marginalization, you may find hope and empowerment through therapy. As a queer, non-binary therapist, I focus on social justice and how oppression can both impact you and be resisted on a personal level. I will support you to work with overwhelming emotions so that they don’t control you or damage your relationships, and instead guide you towards a more fulfilling life. Through a supportive and collaborative relationship, we can deeply understand your experiences, help you heal from their impacts, and work towards your hopes for your life.
See more therapy options for Guelph
Autism Counsellors
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.