Therapists in Arizona
Carlos Garcia - Arukah Healthcare, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85288 (Online Only)
As a bilingual Master Social Worker Licensed in Arizona and pastoral counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children and families, I specialize in using a multicultural approach to assist people with healing from trauma and overcoming issues related to parental attachment, family/couples conflict, autism, and neurodiversity.
Do you feel distant from others and yourself? Do you put yourself last? Should life become better? Happier? People are more anxious, overwhelmed, and confused about maintaining relationships, jobs, and lifestyles than ever. Not taking the time and ignoring your needs can lead to long-term health problems. Healthy living shouldn't be hard. I empower clients to use cultural and spiritual resources for growth, support, and healing in my holistic treatment. I invite clients to explore unique and shared cultural values to enrich and enhance life and create hope for future wellness.
As a bilingual Master Social Worker Licensed in Arizona and pastoral counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children and families, I specialize in using a multicultural approach to assist people with healing from trauma and overcoming issues related to parental attachment, family/couples conflict, autism, and neurodiversity.
Do you feel distant from others and yourself? Do you put yourself last? Should life become better? Happier? People are more anxious, overwhelmed, and confused about maintaining relationships, jobs, and lifestyles than ever. Not taking the time and ignoring your needs can lead to long-term health problems. Healthy living shouldn't be hard. I empower clients to use cultural and spiritual resources for growth, support, and healing in my holistic treatment. I invite clients to explore unique and shared cultural values to enrich and enhance life and create hope for future wellness.
Rick became a trained and certified therapeutic foster (TFC/HCTC) parent in 2009. Rick is also a certified special education teacher working in the private sector. During this journey, Rick has experience working with children with ADHD, ADD, RAD, ODD, Autism (ASD), anxiety, depression, mood disorder, mild and severe intellectual disabilities, vision/hearing impaired, trauma, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, and TBI.
Rick became a trained and certified therapeutic foster (TFC/HCTC) parent in 2009. Rick is also a certified special education teacher working in the private sector. During this journey, Rick has experience working with children with ADHD, ADD, RAD, ODD, Autism (ASD), anxiety, depression, mood disorder, mild and severe intellectual disabilities, vision/hearing impaired, trauma, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, and TBI.
I also utilize motivational interview, CBT, and have training in Autism.
I find great joy in helping clients who vary in presentation from anxiety to suicidal ideation to trauma. I work with young adults and teens who may be experiencing difficulty with perfectionism, developing relationships, family dynamics, identity development and various other difficulties. Helping clients reveal and create an identity that feels authentic to them is especially important to me. I firmly believe that people know themselves best; they just need the right environment to encourage this. Connection and acceptance along with gentle challenging is key to my approach with clients.
I also utilize motivational interview, CBT, and have training in Autism.
I find great joy in helping clients who vary in presentation from anxiety to suicidal ideation to trauma. I work with young adults and teens who may be experiencing difficulty with perfectionism, developing relationships, family dynamics, identity development and various other difficulties. Helping clients reveal and create an identity that feels authentic to them is especially important to me. I firmly believe that people know themselves best; they just need the right environment to encourage this. Connection and acceptance along with gentle challenging is key to my approach with clients.
Melissa Joy Hahnke
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Waitlist for new clients
Melissa has experience providing support for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, traumatic history, relationship concerns, family conflict, phase-of-life concerns, discrimination, bullying, substance use, chronic illness, grief, ADHD, OCD, and autism.
As an autistic person herself, Melissa is passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and operates from a neuroaffirmative lens. Melissa prioritizes collaboration in the therapeutic process, believing that each person is the expert of their life–every person is different, with a unique set of lived experiences, identities, and perspectives, so she believes that treatment should be unique to each person, too. Treatment involves community and self-advocacy, incorporating intersectional cultural identities, supporting clients’ personal treatment goals, fostering self-compassion, and building community support.
Melissa has experience providing support for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, traumatic history, relationship concerns, family conflict, phase-of-life concerns, discrimination, bullying, substance use, chronic illness, grief, ADHD, OCD, and autism.
As an autistic person herself, Melissa is passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and operates from a neuroaffirmative lens. Melissa prioritizes collaboration in the therapeutic process, believing that each person is the expert of their life–every person is different, with a unique set of lived experiences, identities, and perspectives, so she believes that treatment should be unique to each person, too. Treatment involves community and self-advocacy, incorporating intersectional cultural identities, supporting clients’ personal treatment goals, fostering self-compassion, and building community support.
Are your children displaying challenges with emotions, relating to others or adjusting to a school environment? Difficulty regulating emotions and impulsive behaviors can negatively affect the way we interact with others, causing difficulties in building those relationships we need to thrive. I primarily work with children and teens with an emphasis on Autism, development delays, ADHD and anxiety and the impact on daily functioning and fully enjoying life. I have seen how trauma negatively affects normal childhood development and have been trained in EMDR for children to help free them from a burden and pain they don’t understand.
Are your children displaying challenges with emotions, relating to others or adjusting to a school environment? Difficulty regulating emotions and impulsive behaviors can negatively affect the way we interact with others, causing difficulties in building those relationships we need to thrive. I primarily work with children and teens with an emphasis on Autism, development delays, ADHD and anxiety and the impact on daily functioning and fully enjoying life. I have seen how trauma negatively affects normal childhood development and have been trained in EMDR for children to help free them from a burden and pain they don’t understand.
Lauren Megrew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with neurodiversity (high functioning Autism/Asperger's profiles and ADHD) in children, teens, and adults. I specialize in adult diagnosis and neurodiversity in females. I provide ND diagnostics, ND individual & couples therapy, as well as parent coaching & therapy, executive functioning coaching, and behavior planning/modification.
I specialize in helping people with neurodiversity (high functioning Autism/Asperger's profiles and ADHD) in children, teens, and adults. I specialize in adult diagnosis and neurodiversity in females. I provide ND diagnostics, ND individual & couples therapy, as well as parent coaching & therapy, executive functioning coaching, and behavior planning/modification.
ACCEPTING NEW TELE-HEALTH CLIENTS. I specialize in working with people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, LGBTQ+ concerns, Trauma, Addition, Academic and Life Transitions, Relationship issues, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Low Self-esteem. If your daily functioning is being impacted and you are struggling, participating in therapy can help you learn healthy ways of coping. As a mindfulness psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people by creating a warm and non-judgmental environment and supporting them to live more fulfilled lives.
ACCEPTING NEW TELE-HEALTH CLIENTS. I specialize in working with people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, LGBTQ+ concerns, Trauma, Addition, Academic and Life Transitions, Relationship issues, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Low Self-esteem. If your daily functioning is being impacted and you are struggling, participating in therapy can help you learn healthy ways of coping. As a mindfulness psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people by creating a warm and non-judgmental environment and supporting them to live more fulfilled lives.
Tucson Neuropsychology Institute (TNI) offers comprehensive evaluations for both children and adults. Our psychologists have experience with a range of neurological, neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and chronic health issues. We provide evaluations to assess ADHD, autism, TBI, memory loss, and learning disorders. With over 50 years of combined experience serving the greater Tucson area, TNI’s mission is to provide the highest quality care to our patients, to actively contribute to the advancement of the field of neuropsychology, and to improve the lives of those in our community.
Tucson Neuropsychology Institute (TNI) offers comprehensive evaluations for both children and adults. Our psychologists have experience with a range of neurological, neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and chronic health issues. We provide evaluations to assess ADHD, autism, TBI, memory loss, and learning disorders. With over 50 years of combined experience serving the greater Tucson area, TNI’s mission is to provide the highest quality care to our patients, to actively contribute to the advancement of the field of neuropsychology, and to improve the lives of those in our community.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
I have experience working with children with Autism as a registered behavior technician as well as experience in a University Counseling Center.
With each interaction I find that striking a balance between a safe therapeutic space and appropriate challenges leads to the most holistic healing and deeper insights. I believe in a top-down and bottom-up approach when it comes to therapy. I hope to encourage a client to take responsibility over their own life while recognizing and validating the larger systems and realities that impact them. The ultimate goal is to translate growth within the therapy room to a client’s actual day-to-day life. Overall, I hope to empower clients to uncover new healthier ways of being for themselves.
I have experience working with children with Autism as a registered behavior technician as well as experience in a University Counseling Center.
With each interaction I find that striking a balance between a safe therapeutic space and appropriate challenges leads to the most holistic healing and deeper insights. I believe in a top-down and bottom-up approach when it comes to therapy. I hope to encourage a client to take responsibility over their own life while recognizing and validating the larger systems and realities that impact them. The ultimate goal is to translate growth within the therapy room to a client’s actual day-to-day life. Overall, I hope to empower clients to uncover new healthier ways of being for themselves.
Diagnoses and Issues I have training to work with include: Anxiety, Autism, Binge Eating Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Phase of Life difficulties, Parent-Child/Teen relationship issues, Couples issues, and Family issues.
I have experience working in many different settings including city social services, in education, an outpatient clinic and within a homeless shelter. I am trained to work with children, adolescents, parents, individuals, couples, and families on various issues that hinder growth and happiness. I specialize in the trauma therapy (EMDR), ABA for working with individuals on the spectrum, mindfulness and relaxation methods, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My counseling style is centered around helping you complete the goals you set for yourself in a supportive and warm environment, free of judgment.
Diagnoses and Issues I have training to work with include: Anxiety, Autism, Binge Eating Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Phase of Life difficulties, Parent-Child/Teen relationship issues, Couples issues, and Family issues.
I have experience working in many different settings including city social services, in education, an outpatient clinic and within a homeless shelter. I am trained to work with children, adolescents, parents, individuals, couples, and families on various issues that hinder growth and happiness. I specialize in the trauma therapy (EMDR), ABA for working with individuals on the spectrum, mindfulness and relaxation methods, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My counseling style is centered around helping you complete the goals you set for yourself in a supportive and warm environment, free of judgment.
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Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085 (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and am familiar with neurodiversity.
Email for all inquiries! Congratulations on taking the first step to living your best life! The last couple years have been difficult for all of us, but especially those who were already struggling with their mental health. It has been a time for reflection and now it is time to take action towards healing and making lifelong changes. Please allow me to assist you in discovering your strengths and recognizing your resiliency. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques each designed to help you on your unique journey of self-improvement.
I have experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and am familiar with neurodiversity.
Email for all inquiries! Congratulations on taking the first step to living your best life! The last couple years have been difficult for all of us, but especially those who were already struggling with their mental health. It has been a time for reflection and now it is time to take action towards healing and making lifelong changes. Please allow me to assist you in discovering your strengths and recognizing your resiliency. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques each designed to help you on your unique journey of self-improvement.
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
Dr. Gary Probst
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Anxiety issues? Are you an overthinker? Perhaps you have High-Functioning Autism, otherwise known as Asperger's, or being Neurodivergent? Maybe you are just very bright and tend to suffer anxiety from your racing thoughts. I can help you, online, with effective, and powerful methods, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and simple life and executive coaching. I am an author and educator. I also help those with mood disorders, personality disorders, and depression. I am known for being a kind, compassionate and effective counselor.
Anxiety issues? Are you an overthinker? Perhaps you have High-Functioning Autism, otherwise known as Asperger's, or being Neurodivergent? Maybe you are just very bright and tend to suffer anxiety from your racing thoughts. I can help you, online, with effective, and powerful methods, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and simple life and executive coaching. I am an author and educator. I also help those with mood disorders, personality disorders, and depression. I am known for being a kind, compassionate and effective counselor.
Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (Online Only)
I can help you advocate for your child if a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is needed, as I can assess for ADHD, Spectrum Disorders (Autism), learning disorders, intellectual disorders and behavioral and emotional disturbances.
I am very direct and will help make the changes you need to grow and heal. I work with individuals, couples and families with children ages 5 and up. I specialize in treating problems related to marriage and parenting; social, emotional, behavioral, intellectual and academic issues, self-esteem and confidence; life transitions, grief and loss; abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I’m passionate about helping children and their parents work together as a family, as a team. A team approach is the most effective approach, which is why I also collaborate with your child’s teachers and other providers as needed.
I can help you advocate for your child if a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is needed, as I can assess for ADHD, Spectrum Disorders (Autism), learning disorders, intellectual disorders and behavioral and emotional disturbances.
I am very direct and will help make the changes you need to grow and heal. I work with individuals, couples and families with children ages 5 and up. I specialize in treating problems related to marriage and parenting; social, emotional, behavioral, intellectual and academic issues, self-esteem and confidence; life transitions, grief and loss; abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I’m passionate about helping children and their parents work together as a family, as a team. A team approach is the most effective approach, which is why I also collaborate with your child’s teachers and other providers as needed.
Tara Drappo- Neurodiversity AuDHD Autism Adhd Ocd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85205 (Online Only)
As a neurodivergent therapist, my passion lies in creating a safe and understanding space for neurodivergent clients. I believe that each person's journey is unique and deserves to be honored with empathy and respect. My approach is deeply rooted in the understanding that neurodiversity is not a disorder but a different way of experiencing and navigating the world. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration, where my clients feel heard and validated. I recognize the challenges that neurodivergent individuals may face in a society that often prioritizes conformity and aim to empower my clients.
As a neurodivergent therapist, my passion lies in creating a safe and understanding space for neurodivergent clients. I believe that each person's journey is unique and deserves to be honored with empathy and respect. My approach is deeply rooted in the understanding that neurodiversity is not a disorder but a different way of experiencing and navigating the world. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration, where my clients feel heard and validated. I recognize the challenges that neurodivergent individuals may face in a society that often prioritizes conformity and aim to empower my clients.
Tara Nicole Kiener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LBA
Verified Verified
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
We are all in this together and I would love to offer support and hope on your journey! I have a desire to help fellow neurodivergent people to feel heard, understood, and accepted. I will listen to, acknowledge, and strive to understand your fears, your inner struggles, and the dilemmas you are faced with. I will be there to help you determine what is preventing you from living your best life. Your story matters.
We are all in this together and I would love to offer support and hope on your journey! I have a desire to help fellow neurodivergent people to feel heard, understood, and accepted. I will listen to, acknowledge, and strive to understand your fears, your inner struggles, and the dilemmas you are faced with. I will be there to help you determine what is preventing you from living your best life. Your story matters.
Is fear sucking the fulfillment from your life? Maybe you’re missing out on things you wish you could do. Do you often feel revved up? Or maybe you feel you relate to Bob from “What About Bob?” a little too closely – cold sweats, hot sweats…blurred vision, involuntary trembling, dead hands, numb lips. We laugh, but the reality is, it’s not fun. Eventually some may crash. You’re tired. It’s exhausting to maintain this state. After prolonged periods, some may slip into a low. Things don’t seem as colorful as they used to. Everything seems a little dull. Literally and figuratively. In either case, you want to feel better.
Is fear sucking the fulfillment from your life? Maybe you’re missing out on things you wish you could do. Do you often feel revved up? Or maybe you feel you relate to Bob from “What About Bob?” a little too closely – cold sweats, hot sweats…blurred vision, involuntary trembling, dead hands, numb lips. We laugh, but the reality is, it’s not fun. Eventually some may crash. You’re tired. It’s exhausting to maintain this state. After prolonged periods, some may slip into a low. Things don’t seem as colorful as they used to. Everything seems a little dull. Literally and figuratively. In either case, you want to feel better.
David Meer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Waitlist for new clients
You have the freedom to create the life that you choose. Rather than conforming and living out someone else’s vision, let’s work together to embrace and build upon the things that make you unique. I support a community that encourages people to use their abilities and talents by working with neurodivergent people and families to construct values, set goals, and clear the path toward a meaningful life. Let's maximize your strengths and learn how to manage the things that cause distress and harm your relationship with yourself and the world.
You have the freedom to create the life that you choose. Rather than conforming and living out someone else’s vision, let’s work together to embrace and build upon the things that make you unique. I support a community that encourages people to use their abilities and talents by working with neurodivergent people and families to construct values, set goals, and clear the path toward a meaningful life. Let's maximize your strengths and learn how to manage the things that cause distress and harm your relationship with yourself and the world.
My ideal clients are 5+, including both children and adults who are looking to align their lives with their values, are struggling to overcome challenges, and need someone to provide guidance toward meaningful chang. While my speciality lies within neurodivergent community, ALL are welcome here! If you are seeking understanding, are open to acknowledging your strengths/challenges and are ready to commit to change, my services are right for you. I take a holistic, mindful and human centered approach, focused on amplifying one’s experience through learning to work with discomfort and gain the tools needed to live life, your way.
My ideal clients are 5+, including both children and adults who are looking to align their lives with their values, are struggling to overcome challenges, and need someone to provide guidance toward meaningful chang. While my speciality lies within neurodivergent community, ALL are welcome here! If you are seeking understanding, are open to acknowledging your strengths/challenges and are ready to commit to change, my services are right for you. I take a holistic, mindful and human centered approach, focused on amplifying one’s experience through learning to work with discomfort and gain the tools needed to live life, your way.
See more therapy options for Arizona
Autism Therapists
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.