Autism Therapists in Tempe, AZ

Photo of Nicole Schuster, LAC, Counselor
Nicole Schuster
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
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.
(520) 457-7203 View (520) 457-7203
Photo of Carlos Garcia - Carlos Garcia - Arukah Healthcare, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 frequently feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsatisfied? Are your relationships suffering? I’m passionate about helping clients navigate difficult situations and committed to helping you create strong and healthy relationships so that you can start living a thriving life. Clients enjoy returning to sessions because I allow them to speak openly about their challenges while creating a collaborative unique treatment plan. This allows individuals to view their problems differently, promote change more effectively, and balance empathy with authenticity, humor, and accountability.
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 frequently feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsatisfied? Are your relationships suffering? I’m passionate about helping clients navigate difficult situations and committed to helping you create strong and healthy relationships so that you can start living a thriving life. Clients enjoy returning to sessions because I allow them to speak openly about their challenges while creating a collaborative unique treatment plan. This allows individuals to view their problems differently, promote change more effectively, and balance empathy with authenticity, humor, and accountability.
(623) 343-0483 View (623) 343-0483
Photo of Shalini Wahi - Arizona Psychology Clinic; Dr Shalini Wahi, PhD, Psychologist
Arizona Psychology Clinic; Dr Shalini Wahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
The Arizona Psychology Clinic offers Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Services for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, Gifted IQ, Twice Exceptional and Personality Issues. Additionally, testing for accommodations on Standardized Tests such as the SAT, ACT and GRE is also offered. Testing protocols for receiving accommodations within school and college settings are a focus of the practice as well.
The Arizona Psychology Clinic offers Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Services for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, Gifted IQ, Twice Exceptional and Personality Issues. Additionally, testing for accommodations on Standardized Tests such as the SAT, ACT and GRE is also offered. Testing protocols for receiving accommodations within school and college settings are a focus of the practice as well.
(480) 789-9934 View (480) 789-9934
Photo of Lauryn Drache, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauryn Drache
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
Specialities include working with neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism, and Social Pragmatic Disorders), personality disorders, and SMI populations.
My therapeutic approach is to assist clients in addressing their internal and interpersonal goals, boundaries, needs, and expectations by breaking cycles that do not work for them. Addressing attachment, inner-child, and internal wounds and experiences from throughout a client’s life to assist in addressing complex emotions in an autonomous and empowered manner. As a therapist, I have found trauma-informed approaches helpful with clients to assist them in managing emotion and nervous system regulation. I am well-versed in LGBQIA, trauma-related, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
Specialities include working with neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism, and Social Pragmatic Disorders), personality disorders, and SMI populations.
My therapeutic approach is to assist clients in addressing their internal and interpersonal goals, boundaries, needs, and expectations by breaking cycles that do not work for them. Addressing attachment, inner-child, and internal wounds and experiences from throughout a client’s life to assist in addressing complex emotions in an autonomous and empowered manner. As a therapist, I have found trauma-informed approaches helpful with clients to assist them in managing emotion and nervous system regulation. I am well-versed in LGBQIA, trauma-related, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
(480) 750-7534 x2 View (480) 750-7534 x2
Photo of Jeremy Gwizdalski, LAC, Counselor
Jeremy Gwizdalski
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
(480) 525-9735 View (480) 525-9735
Photo of Jessica M Trotter, LPC Intern
Jessica M Trotter
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My passion is individuals and families affected by the autism spectrum.
I am an intern at Raise Behavioral Health Service, offer counseling to children, adolescents, families and individuals. I have a passion or aiding others who may be going through a rough time or phase of life change. I like to look at behaviors in a very analytical way as I was also an in home behavioral coach for children with high behavioral needs. Raise offers a free consult call, so call today and see if I am a good fit for you!
My passion is individuals and families affected by the autism spectrum.
I am an intern at Raise Behavioral Health Service, offer counseling to children, adolescents, families and individuals. I have a passion or aiding others who may be going through a rough time or phase of life change. I like to look at behaviors in a very analytical way as I was also an in home behavioral coach for children with high behavioral needs. Raise offers a free consult call, so call today and see if I am a good fit for you!
(602) 878-8605 View (602) 878-8605
Photo of Sandra DeVoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra DeVoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85287  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People who are neurodiverse: autism, adhd, developmental delays welcomed.
I am a warm, gentle, non-judgemental therapist that has over 10years of experience. I support people with both professionally diagnosed and self-diagnosed neurodiversity. I am trauma informed regarding both big and small traumas. I specialized in working with people who are neurodivergent (autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, TBI, and learning disabilities). I have lived experience as a neurodivergent person. I can also help support caregivers and family members who are learning to have more compassion and understanding of family members with formally and self-diagnosed autism or ADHD.
People who are neurodiverse: autism, adhd, developmental delays welcomed.
I am a warm, gentle, non-judgemental therapist that has over 10years of experience. I support people with both professionally diagnosed and self-diagnosed neurodiversity. I am trauma informed regarding both big and small traumas. I specialized in working with people who are neurodivergent (autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, TBI, and learning disabilities). I have lived experience as a neurodivergent person. I can also help support caregivers and family members who are learning to have more compassion and understanding of family members with formally and self-diagnosed autism or ADHD.
(321) 529-1174 View (321) 529-1174
Photo of Paula J McCall, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Paula J McCall
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281
Services include individual assessments related to school performance as well as in the areas of depression, anxiety, Autism, and ADHD.
***I am mostly unable to accept new therapy clients. I am only accepting clients for psychological, psychoeducational, DDD, and gifted evaluations at this time. Wait time for a psychological eval is approximately 6 months. Wait time for a gifted eval is about 4 weeks*** My goal to assist children, teens, and young adults in reaching their full potential. I seek to provide services that better equip a child or adolescent to make positive choices, to overcome and move forward from significant loss and negative experiences, to feel good about him or herself, and to feel capable of achieving all that he or she desires.
Services include individual assessments related to school performance as well as in the areas of depression, anxiety, Autism, and ADHD.
***I am mostly unable to accept new therapy clients. I am only accepting clients for psychological, psychoeducational, DDD, and gifted evaluations at this time. Wait time for a psychological eval is approximately 6 months. Wait time for a gifted eval is about 4 weeks*** My goal to assist children, teens, and young adults in reaching their full potential. I seek to provide services that better equip a child or adolescent to make positive choices, to overcome and move forward from significant loss and negative experiences, to feel good about him or herself, and to feel capable of achieving all that he or she desires.
(480) 685-5896 View (480) 685-5896
Photo of Tamara Woodard Autism AuDHD, LCSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Woodard Autism AuDHD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
Tamara has helped 1000+ children & young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence.
Are you a young adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life? Perhaps you are the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
Tamara has helped 1000+ children & young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence.
Are you a young adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life? Perhaps you are the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
(480) 771-0304 View (480) 771-0304
Photo of Kayla Block, MC, LPC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Block
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284  (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.
(520) 263-9470 View (520) 263-9470
Photo of Tamara Woodard Autism AuDHD, LCSW, MSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Woodard Autism AuDHD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
Tamara offers individual/family/group counseling & affordable, diagnostic autism evaluations for ages 12 months to young adults.
Are you a young adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life? Perhaps you are the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
Tamara offers individual/family/group counseling & affordable, diagnostic autism evaluations for ages 12 months to young adults.
Are you a young adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life? Perhaps you are the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
(480) 608-9130 View (480) 608-9130
Photo of Fernando Martinez, LBA, BCBA, MA
Fernando Martinez
LBA, BCBA, MA
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach developmental milestones. My services help improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach developmental milestones. My services help improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
(623) 462-1296 View (623) 462-1296
Photo of Annika Pillado, LAC, MA, NCC, Counselor
Annika Pillado
Counselor, LAC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I’ve worked with folks dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women’s issues, neurodivergence (like ADHD and Autism), as well as those tricky life transitions.
I believe one of the best parts of counseling is finding new ways to live authentically and discover who you were made to be. As Carl Jung said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” In our sessions, I aim to keep it real with openness, hope, and flexibility, focusing on what you want to achieve.
I’ve worked with folks dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women’s issues, neurodivergence (like ADHD and Autism), as well as those tricky life transitions.
I believe one of the best parts of counseling is finding new ways to live authentically and discover who you were made to be. As Carl Jung said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” In our sessions, I aim to keep it real with openness, hope, and flexibility, focusing on what you want to achieve.
(602) 786-5206 View (602) 786-5206
Photo of Cari S Cruckson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cari S Cruckson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
I have therapeutic interests in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, Women's issues, parenting/family issues, child and adolescent development, and clinical interests in the areas of self-esteem/self-advocacy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders and trauma.
Reaching out for help takes courage. It can be daunting to face the things that you’ve been avoiding. Through positive interventions and education, I want to help you learn to embrace yourself and engage in the world. I strongly believe in the power of hope and principles of recovery for the treatment of mental illness. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to feel seen and heard. Through traditional and non traditional interventions, I will come alongside you on your journey to wellness. I can teach you to find success, even in the presence of difficulty and hardship.
I have therapeutic interests in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, Women's issues, parenting/family issues, child and adolescent development, and clinical interests in the areas of self-esteem/self-advocacy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders and trauma.
Reaching out for help takes courage. It can be daunting to face the things that you’ve been avoiding. Through positive interventions and education, I want to help you learn to embrace yourself and engage in the world. I strongly believe in the power of hope and principles of recovery for the treatment of mental illness. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to feel seen and heard. Through traditional and non traditional interventions, I will come alongside you on your journey to wellness. I can teach you to find success, even in the presence of difficulty and hardship.
(928) 396-2298 View (928) 396-2298
Photo of Tony Rusch, PhD, Psychologist
Tony Rusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
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.
(602) 492-3146 View (602) 492-3146
Photo of Susanne Nigro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susanne Nigro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience working with bonding and attachment in adoptive/ foster placements, trauma, PTSD, adolescent issues, addiction, addressing high risk behaviors including cutting and self harm, parenting issues and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
At times the challenges we are presented with can be painfully overwhelming. Some of our choices and habits along with our need for companionship affect our judgment. Indecisiveness and complacency can manifest as unsatisfying patterns of behavior or disheartening relationships. I believe it is possible to create meaningful changes, to be the person you want to be and live a happy, fulfilling life. For young client's fun and play are important. Incorporating creative, expressive art and play therapy interventions is my specialty. This is a great way to connect with children and teens unresponsive to traditional forms of therapy.
I have extensive training and experience working with bonding and attachment in adoptive/ foster placements, trauma, PTSD, adolescent issues, addiction, addressing high risk behaviors including cutting and self harm, parenting issues and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
At times the challenges we are presented with can be painfully overwhelming. Some of our choices and habits along with our need for companionship affect our judgment. Indecisiveness and complacency can manifest as unsatisfying patterns of behavior or disheartening relationships. I believe it is possible to create meaningful changes, to be the person you want to be and live a happy, fulfilling life. For young client's fun and play are important. Incorporating creative, expressive art and play therapy interventions is my specialty. This is a great way to connect with children and teens unresponsive to traditional forms of therapy.
(480) 725-7453 View (480) 725-7453
Photo of Mindy Robbins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
I enjoy supporting folks with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, and OCD.
Hello! I am a queer and non-binary therapist who offers an affirming space for those who are 2SLGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, kinky, polyam, gender questioning, transgender, and non-binary/ gender diverse. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel seen and understood from their own unique perspective and that healing occurs as you align with your most authentic self. I am able to provide letters for those seeking Gender Affirming medical care.
I enjoy supporting folks with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, and OCD.
Hello! I am a queer and non-binary therapist who offers an affirming space for those who are 2SLGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, kinky, polyam, gender questioning, transgender, and non-binary/ gender diverse. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel seen and understood from their own unique perspective and that healing occurs as you align with your most authentic self. I am able to provide letters for those seeking Gender Affirming medical care.
(623) 888-8732 View (623) 888-8732
Photo of Zachary Cunningham, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zachary Cunningham
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283  (Online Only)
Experiences treating presenting concerns related to; Anxiety, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Disturbance, Grief, Infidelity, Life Transitions, Neuro Deficiencies, Parenting.
Have you ever worried about your relationship? Your child? Your own well-being? You are not alone, especially during these times. Change is constant in our life, but seeking help is a beneficial step in finding direction on your journey. I work with Individuals, couples and families experiencing discord and seeking solace during times of strife. My empathic and mindful style aids in my ability to establish a solid foundation of trust and rapport necessary for a healing relationship. We will work together as I believe in a collaborative approach as you are the expert on you, and I am here to offer clinical guidance to nurture growth.
Experiences treating presenting concerns related to; Anxiety, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Disturbance, Grief, Infidelity, Life Transitions, Neuro Deficiencies, Parenting.
Have you ever worried about your relationship? Your child? Your own well-being? You are not alone, especially during these times. Change is constant in our life, but seeking help is a beneficial step in finding direction on your journey. I work with Individuals, couples and families experiencing discord and seeking solace during times of strife. My empathic and mindful style aids in my ability to establish a solid foundation of trust and rapport necessary for a healing relationship. We will work together as I believe in a collaborative approach as you are the expert on you, and I am here to offer clinical guidance to nurture growth.
(623) 294-4702 View (623) 294-4702
Photo of Heather L Berger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather L Berger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85287
Do you have an ADHD or Autism (formerly Asperger's) diagnosis? If not do you think you may be Autistic or have ADHD? Being neurodivergent myself, I am here to help neurodivergent (ND) folks find their way in this neurotypical (NT)world.
Hypnosis now offered ! Do you need help but can't or don't know how to ask for it? Do you feel like you are drowning, struggling, and unmotivated? Do you not recognize yourself anymore? Do you miss the person you used to be? If you're here and reading this, you know that it's ok to need help. But, chances are you are usually the one to do everything for everyone else. You may even be reading this now in hopes to find help for a loved one. Does it seem like help doesn't exist or at least not for you or you're loved one? I am here to help, and have been helping people find their way for over two decades.
Do you have an ADHD or Autism (formerly Asperger's) diagnosis? If not do you think you may be Autistic or have ADHD? Being neurodivergent myself, I am here to help neurodivergent (ND) folks find their way in this neurotypical (NT)world.
Hypnosis now offered ! Do you need help but can't or don't know how to ask for it? Do you feel like you are drowning, struggling, and unmotivated? Do you not recognize yourself anymore? Do you miss the person you used to be? If you're here and reading this, you know that it's ok to need help. But, chances are you are usually the one to do everything for everyone else. You may even be reading this now in hopes to find help for a loved one. Does it seem like help doesn't exist or at least not for you or you're loved one? I am here to help, and have been helping people find their way for over two decades.
(480) 530-8395 View (480) 530-8395
Photo of Mary Margaret Kading, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Margaret Kading
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85280
Waitlist for new clients
I am educated on neurodiverse diagnoses, including ADHD and autism, and also often work with individuals experiencing complex-PTSD, PTSD, OCD, and BPD.
Hey, I'm glad you're here. I get it, life can be tough sometimes, and it can be even harder to talk about it. I tend to work with individuals like you, struggling to figure out what to do next, and just looking for a way up. Many of my clients are wonderful at knowing what's wrong, but struggle to figure out what to do about it - very aware of their own behaviors, but don't know how to not "do the thing" they didn't want to do - people who truly want to cultivate kindness and authenticity, but struggle to find it in their lives.
I am educated on neurodiverse diagnoses, including ADHD and autism, and also often work with individuals experiencing complex-PTSD, PTSD, OCD, and BPD.
Hey, I'm glad you're here. I get it, life can be tough sometimes, and it can be even harder to talk about it. I tend to work with individuals like you, struggling to figure out what to do next, and just looking for a way up. Many of my clients are wonderful at knowing what's wrong, but struggle to figure out what to do about it - very aware of their own behaviors, but don't know how to not "do the thing" they didn't want to do - people who truly want to cultivate kindness and authenticity, but struggle to find it in their lives.
(480) 506-0895 View (480) 506-0895
1
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.