Autism Therapists in Santa Cruz County, AZ
My ideal client is a parent/s, child/teen or a child/teen with special needs and disabilities struggling with mental health issues or behavioral concerns. They may be facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or autism, seeking guidance to navigate these challenges. Their needs include a safe space to explore emotions and practical tools to overcome obstacles. With the goal of feeling happier, more fulfilled, and in control of their lives, they aim for improved overall well-being and success in personal and academic spheres.
My ideal client is a parent/s, child/teen or a child/teen with special needs and disabilities struggling with mental health issues or behavioral concerns. They may be facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or autism, seeking guidance to navigate these challenges. Their needs include a safe space to explore emotions and practical tools to overcome obstacles. With the goal of feeling happier, more fulfilled, and in control of their lives, they aim for improved overall well-being and success in personal and academic spheres.
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
Jody is a master's level licensed professional counselor (LPC) specializing in trauma, social justice counseling, addiction, EMDR, and CBT. She enjoys integrating therapeutic modalities to meet specific client needs with a holistic and compassionate approach to healing. Her experience working as a psychometrist and therapist focused on neuropsychological development contributes to the psychoeducation and learning that she uses to educate her clients.
Jody is a master's level licensed professional counselor (LPC) specializing in trauma, social justice counseling, addiction, EMDR, and CBT. She enjoys integrating therapeutic modalities to meet specific client needs with a holistic and compassionate approach to healing. Her experience working as a psychometrist and therapist focused on neuropsychological development contributes to the psychoeducation and learning that she uses to educate her clients.
Online Therapists
I have my PhD in Special Education, Autism, and Behavior Analysis.
I have 10+ years experience working with parents of children/teens with moderate to severe problem behaviors. I can work with parents to create a behavioral approach to address some of the following behaviors: self-injury, aggression, elopement, avoidance of non-preferred activities (ie. school, homework, extracurricular activities, anxiety-related avoidance (ie. school activities with peers, unexpected changes in schedule, disrespectful communication/interactions, social difficulties, sleep difficulties, problems in school. Additionally, I have years experience advocating and assisting parents in addressing problems at school.
I have my PhD in Special Education, Autism, and Behavior Analysis.
I have 10+ years experience working with parents of children/teens with moderate to severe problem behaviors. I can work with parents to create a behavioral approach to address some of the following behaviors: self-injury, aggression, elopement, avoidance of non-preferred activities (ie. school, homework, extracurricular activities, anxiety-related avoidance (ie. school activities with peers, unexpected changes in schedule, disrespectful communication/interactions, social difficulties, sleep difficulties, problems in school. Additionally, I have years experience advocating and assisting parents in addressing problems at school.
Tucson Neuropsychology Associates (led by Neuropsychologist Dr. Patricia Beldotti) offers comprehensive & supportive assessments for children (age 6+) & adults to assess of a variety of thinking, learning, social, behavioral, and emotional issues such as Learning Disabilities (including dyslexia, dysgraphia), intellectual disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and psychological issues. We also provide assessments of thinking and learning to determine giftedness and to help with school planning or placement. Our team has specialty experience in the areas of clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and school psychology.
Tucson Neuropsychology Associates (led by Neuropsychologist Dr. Patricia Beldotti) offers comprehensive & supportive assessments for children (age 6+) & adults to assess of a variety of thinking, learning, social, behavioral, and emotional issues such as Learning Disabilities (including dyslexia, dysgraphia), intellectual disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and psychological issues. We also provide assessments of thinking and learning to determine giftedness and to help with school planning or placement. Our team has specialty experience in the areas of clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and school psychology.
Brandon T. Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BHP
Verified Verified
Vail, AZ 85641 (Online Only)
Life presents numerous challenges; at Desert Horizons Therapy, I specialize in comprehensive support, focusing on trauma. My EMDR training guides individuals through difficulties like depression, anxiety, anger, grief, stress, autism, family and couple issues, self-growth, self-esteem, substance abuse, sleep problems, postpartum anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and psychosis. My inclusive approach extends to families, couples, adults, and children. We also have an associate-level female clinician on staff if you prefer a female provider!
Life presents numerous challenges; at Desert Horizons Therapy, I specialize in comprehensive support, focusing on trauma. My EMDR training guides individuals through difficulties like depression, anxiety, anger, grief, stress, autism, family and couple issues, self-growth, self-esteem, substance abuse, sleep problems, postpartum anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and psychosis. My inclusive approach extends to families, couples, adults, and children. We also have an associate-level female clinician on staff if you prefer a female provider!
Hall provides both comprehensive evaluations as well as focused evaluations for specific conditions like autism or ADHD (referral required for focused evaluations).
Dr. Hall is a licensed psychologist in Central Phoenix specializing in neuropsychology and diagnosis. She sees toddlers through young adults (and their families!) for evaluations and brief therapy. Evaluations help uncover the root of an issue, and a diagnosis provides answers. Often our clients have tried a variety of therapies before coming for an evaluation to better understand what's going on. Neuropsychologists have extensive training in brain-behavior relationships and methods for better understanding individual experiences. Dr. Hall works with a team that is also available to provide direct therapy and parent training.
Hall provides both comprehensive evaluations as well as focused evaluations for specific conditions like autism or ADHD (referral required for focused evaluations).
Dr. Hall is a licensed psychologist in Central Phoenix specializing in neuropsychology and diagnosis. She sees toddlers through young adults (and their families!) for evaluations and brief therapy. Evaluations help uncover the root of an issue, and a diagnosis provides answers. Often our clients have tried a variety of therapies before coming for an evaluation to better understand what's going on. Neuropsychologists have extensive training in brain-behavior relationships and methods for better understanding individual experiences. Dr. Hall works with a team that is also available to provide direct therapy and parent training.
Crises and life transitions tend to spotlight where we need to grow. I have two typical clients. One is interested in ongoing psychotherapy and has often (though not necessarily) been in therapy before. The other is looking for shorter-term work to sort through a decision or transition. Depression, anxiety, "stuckness" or "emptiness" often inspire people to call. I work with adults of all backgrounds, but have niche experience with many chronic illnesses, including long COVID, MCAS, EDS and cancer; neurodiversity-affirming work with autism & ADHD; older adults & aging; and healthcare & mental health professionals.
Crises and life transitions tend to spotlight where we need to grow. I have two typical clients. One is interested in ongoing psychotherapy and has often (though not necessarily) been in therapy before. The other is looking for shorter-term work to sort through a decision or transition. Depression, anxiety, "stuckness" or "emptiness" often inspire people to call. I work with adults of all backgrounds, but have niche experience with many chronic illnesses, including long COVID, MCAS, EDS and cancer; neurodiversity-affirming work with autism & ADHD; older adults & aging; and healthcare & mental health professionals.
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.
Frances Holguin-Westfall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712 (Online Only)
I specialize in providing services to individuals and families impacted by autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other neurodivergent diagnosis.
In the journey of life filled with unexpected twists, I, as a licensed therapist, I help create a space where these surprises are met with compassion and support. My role is to guide you through both the beautiful and challenging moments, providing a professional and dignified atmosphere. Whether you're dealing with difficult circumstances, behavioral challenges, or seeking a fresh start, you don't have to face this path alone. I have 21 years of experience, a master's degree from Arizona State University, and licensed through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
I specialize in providing services to individuals and families impacted by autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other neurodivergent diagnosis.
In the journey of life filled with unexpected twists, I, as a licensed therapist, I help create a space where these surprises are met with compassion and support. My role is to guide you through both the beautiful and challenging moments, providing a professional and dignified atmosphere. Whether you're dealing with difficult circumstances, behavioral challenges, or seeking a fresh start, you don't have to face this path alone. I have 21 years of experience, a master's degree from Arizona State University, and licensed through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
If you feel that your child may be struggling with a learning disorder (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia), ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or other psychological & cognitive concerns, please call to talk about how psychological testing could be helpful.
Through therapy, I help children understand their big emotions and how to navigate through emotional reactions in more helpful, positive ways. I enjoy working with children and teens on finding the best coping tools to make the challenges of growing up feel a bit more manageable. I also help guide teens through their challenging teenage years that may be further impacted by mental health struggles, such as anxiety and depression. My overall goal is for kids and families to see and experience positive change in the home and school environments.
If you feel that your child may be struggling with a learning disorder (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia), ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or other psychological & cognitive concerns, please call to talk about how psychological testing could be helpful.
Through therapy, I help children understand their big emotions and how to navigate through emotional reactions in more helpful, positive ways. I enjoy working with children and teens on finding the best coping tools to make the challenges of growing up feel a bit more manageable. I also help guide teens through their challenging teenage years that may be further impacted by mental health struggles, such as anxiety and depression. My overall goal is for kids and families to see and experience positive change in the home and school environments.
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
My focus is primarily providing comprehensive evaluations for children ages 2 years and older to address concerns regarding learning, ADHD, social/emotional, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and cognitive disabilities.
Many children struggle with the pressures of our modern world. Through therapy, a struggling child can be provided with the skills and tools to reach their greatest potential. I believe that each child has individual needs, therefore a personalized evaluation helps tailor a treatment plan that focuses on his or her strengths. My goal is always to assist the child in gaining the tools necessary to be successful.
My focus is primarily providing comprehensive evaluations for children ages 2 years and older to address concerns regarding learning, ADHD, social/emotional, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and cognitive disabilities.
Many children struggle with the pressures of our modern world. Through therapy, a struggling child can be provided with the skills and tools to reach their greatest potential. I believe that each child has individual needs, therefore a personalized evaluation helps tailor a treatment plan that focuses on his or her strengths. My goal is always to assist the child in gaining the tools necessary to be successful.
Kayla Block
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85755 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
Welcome! I'm Kayla Block, owner of Spectrum of Growth Counseling. I love working with adults struggling with understanding their neurodivergent identity. Whether you identify as "on the spectrum" or "neuro-spicy", I love helping clients connect with themselves on a deeper level. I also enjoy working with adults struggling with symptoms related to trauma and dissociation. I find that combining EMDR and IFS parts work can be extremely helpful in getting to "deeper" issues that talk therapy may not adequately address.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
Welcome! I'm Kayla Block, owner of Spectrum of Growth Counseling. I love working with adults struggling with understanding their neurodivergent identity. Whether you identify as "on the spectrum" or "neuro-spicy", I love helping clients connect with themselves on a deeper level. I also enjoy working with adults struggling with symptoms related to trauma and dissociation. I find that combining EMDR and IFS parts work can be extremely helpful in getting to "deeper" issues that talk therapy may not adequately address.
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 love working with adults and adolescents on the Autism Spectrum.
My approach to therapy is to listen with a warm and empathic ear so that you can feel heard and begin to heal. I believe you have it within you to grow and change, and my role is to guide therapy and encourage you along the way. I will provide you with feedback and insight and consider myself to be a partner in your healing journey.
I love working with adults and adolescents on the Autism Spectrum.
My approach to therapy is to listen with a warm and empathic ear so that you can feel heard and begin to heal. I believe you have it within you to grow and change, and my role is to guide therapy and encourage you along the way. I will provide you with feedback and insight and consider myself to be a partner in your healing journey.
Lisa Vanderpool
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Not sure if anything will get better? Let's work together to find out how much better things can be! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who utilizes EMDR, Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy and Trauma-Informed Care to work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and other life stressors. I am neurodivergent and part of the LGBTQIA+ community, so I am committed to providing a safe and welcoming therapeutic space for all. I look forward to helping you in any way that I can!
Are you feeling stuck? Not sure if anything will get better? Let's work together to find out how much better things can be! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who utilizes EMDR, Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy and Trauma-Informed Care to work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and other life stressors. I am neurodivergent and part of the LGBTQIA+ community, so I am committed to providing a safe and welcoming therapeutic space for all. I look forward to helping you in any way that I can!
My approach is a results oriented, active, direct, and homework driven style. Addictions often originate from deeper underlying issues such as trauma/PTSD, chronic pain, psychosis, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you accomplish -whatever- goals/values that are uniquely important to you. I genuinely want to help you put the hard work of therapy into achieving real growth. I am part of the neurodivergent/high functioning autistic community. Please scroll down to read my blubs about the evidenced based treatments I use for these struggles. Self compassion is powerful! Book in person (Tucson area) or zoom at my website.
My approach is a results oriented, active, direct, and homework driven style. Addictions often originate from deeper underlying issues such as trauma/PTSD, chronic pain, psychosis, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you accomplish -whatever- goals/values that are uniquely important to you. I genuinely want to help you put the hard work of therapy into achieving real growth. I am part of the neurodivergent/high functioning autistic community. Please scroll down to read my blubs about the evidenced based treatments I use for these struggles. Self compassion is powerful! Book in person (Tucson area) or zoom at my website.
Would you like to reconnect to your authentic self? Are you fed up with doing the same things that don't work? As a therapist, I provide a safe place to become curious about experiences that burden you from enjoying your life. Do you want to stop criticizing yourself? Do you want to find relief from extreme behaviors, anxiety, and depression? Possibly you feel isolated from others or altered by a traumatic experience. I am listening. I welcome all aspects of you to be heard.
Would you like to reconnect to your authentic self? Are you fed up with doing the same things that don't work? As a therapist, I provide a safe place to become curious about experiences that burden you from enjoying your life. Do you want to stop criticizing yourself? Do you want to find relief from extreme behaviors, anxiety, and depression? Possibly you feel isolated from others or altered by a traumatic experience. I am listening. I welcome all aspects of you to be heard.
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. My general areas of interest are autistic spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationships, eating disorders and trauma, and obsessive compulsive problems. My experience has been that psychological change and changes in life circumstances become possible and more probable when a person understands how their mind works; how thoughts and feelings influence what happens internally and in relation to others. Therapy can help a patient obtain a greater degree of control in managing feeling states and the thoughts related to these.
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. My general areas of interest are autistic spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationships, eating disorders and trauma, and obsessive compulsive problems. My experience has been that psychological change and changes in life circumstances become possible and more probable when a person understands how their mind works; how thoughts and feelings influence what happens internally and in relation to others. Therapy can help a patient obtain a greater degree of control in managing feeling states and the thoughts related to these.
See more therapy options for Santa Cruz County
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.