Autism Therapists in Brookfield, IL
Melissa Amison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, MAEA, LCSW, LICSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513
My motto is "try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud". I enjoy working with individuals, groups, and families from all ages seeking ways to grow socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. I welcome all "walks of life" from various cultural backgrounds who are facing challenges with trauma, mental health disorders, autism, intellectual disabilities, youth in care, family dynamics, and many more. This office provides Telehealth Services (e.g., Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas) and face-to-face sessions.
My motto is "try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud". I enjoy working with individuals, groups, and families from all ages seeking ways to grow socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. I welcome all "walks of life" from various cultural backgrounds who are facing challenges with trauma, mental health disorders, autism, intellectual disabilities, youth in care, family dynamics, and many more. This office provides Telehealth Services (e.g., Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas) and face-to-face sessions.
In addition to therapy, I have expertise conducting neuropsychological assessments, which are intended to answer complex questions related to ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder and more.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
In addition to therapy, I have expertise conducting neuropsychological assessments, which are intended to answer complex questions related to ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder and more.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
Heather Holzhauser, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
Kaitlyn “Kat” Evans (She They)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC , Intern
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513
Do you feel like you are just barely surviving in life? Does your child show some signs of anxiety and struggle to socialize with others? Or maybe you have gone through a traumatic experience in your past that lingers in the present and keeps you from feeling like yourself. If you resonate with any of these and don’t know what to do, I could be the therapist for you. I like to think that the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help. Although life inevitably comes with its hardships, it does not have to be an endless experience consisting of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and past traumas constantly coming to the surface.
Do you feel like you are just barely surviving in life? Does your child show some signs of anxiety and struggle to socialize with others? Or maybe you have gone through a traumatic experience in your past that lingers in the present and keeps you from feeling like yourself. If you resonate with any of these and don’t know what to do, I could be the therapist for you. I like to think that the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help. Although life inevitably comes with its hardships, it does not have to be an endless experience consisting of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and past traumas constantly coming to the surface.
The numerous roles that both men and women fulfill in today’s society can lead to many personal challenges. As a licensed therapist, school counselor, and mother, I provide compassionate and effective therapy services to support and empower individuals to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live authentic, fulfilling lives.
The numerous roles that both men and women fulfill in today’s society can lead to many personal challenges. As a licensed therapist, school counselor, and mother, I provide compassionate and effective therapy services to support and empower individuals to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live authentic, fulfilling lives.
Jessica Nikkila (Fenstemacher)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513 (Online Only)
Welcome! I believe that therapy can be a very empowering experience for all ages and genders. I facilitate this for my clients by priding myself as a therapist on being empathetic, inviting and engaging. I provide therapy for Children, Adolescents and Families as well as Adults. I believe that therapy is a safe space which allows one to resolve problems and create personal growth. I am dedicated to my client's well being as well as their own self determination within the therapeutic process and therapeutic relationship. I work psychodynamically and cognitively while also utilizing strength based and family dynamic systems work.
Welcome! I believe that therapy can be a very empowering experience for all ages and genders. I facilitate this for my clients by priding myself as a therapist on being empathetic, inviting and engaging. I provide therapy for Children, Adolescents and Families as well as Adults. I believe that therapy is a safe space which allows one to resolve problems and create personal growth. I am dedicated to my client's well being as well as their own self determination within the therapeutic process and therapeutic relationship. I work psychodynamically and cognitively while also utilizing strength based and family dynamic systems work.
Cherie Hamaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
One of the most challenging steps in the therapeutic process is making the first call. People are often concerned about the stigma that surrounds therapy but seeking out services in itself shows a high level of courage and strength, as well as an interest in growth and change. I will support and encourage you throughout your journey. I believe that therapy is a unique path that you should not have to go through alone.
One of the most challenging steps in the therapeutic process is making the first call. People are often concerned about the stigma that surrounds therapy but seeking out services in itself shows a high level of courage and strength, as well as an interest in growth and change. I will support and encourage you throughout your journey. I believe that therapy is a unique path that you should not have to go through alone.
More Therapists Nearby
I provide assessment of virtually all psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
I provide assessment of virtually all psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
Julie A Peterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154
Waitlist for new clients
Peterson's other areas of clinical interest include: Adult Children and Parent Relationship Issues, Autism/Asperger's, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Couples Conflict, Depression/Mood Disorders, Life Stage Transitions, Premarital Issues and Counseling, School Issues, Sibling Issues, Transition to Parenthood, Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance Issues.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
Peterson's other areas of clinical interest include: Adult Children and Parent Relationship Issues, Autism/Asperger's, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Couples Conflict, Depression/Mood Disorders, Life Stage Transitions, Premarital Issues and Counseling, School Issues, Sibling Issues, Transition to Parenthood, Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance Issues.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
Meg Herr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Parenting challenges, Conduct/Behavior management, School refusal,Women’s Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Skills, Bereavement, Divorce, Adoption, Life transitions, School Motivation, and Executive Functioning Skills using research based interventions.
As you navigate the path to seeking support, I commend you for taking the courageous first step towards healing and self-discovery. I understand the significance of this journey and I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professionalism. I specialize in a broad spectrum of mental health issues. Whether you are an adult facing personal challenges, or a parent seeking support for your child, I am here to offer guidance, support, and the tools you need to thrive. Together, we will explore your experiences, address your concerns, and celebrate your successes.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Parenting challenges, Conduct/Behavior management, School refusal,Women’s Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Skills, Bereavement, Divorce, Adoption, Life transitions, School Motivation, and Executive Functioning Skills using research based interventions.
As you navigate the path to seeking support, I commend you for taking the courageous first step towards healing and self-discovery. I understand the significance of this journey and I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professionalism. I specialize in a broad spectrum of mental health issues. Whether you are an adult facing personal challenges, or a parent seeking support for your child, I am here to offer guidance, support, and the tools you need to thrive. Together, we will explore your experiences, address your concerns, and celebrate your successes.
I am a Clinical Psychologist practicing in the field of psychology for about 7 years. I have experience in working in various clinical settings including a school, psychiatric hospitals, autism family and resource center, intensive outpatient day treatment center, as well as private practice. My private practice consists of providing psychotherapy as well as psychological and neuropsychological testing. All of my clinical services are in English and Polish. My motto above states "What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make"-Jane Goodall.
I am a Clinical Psychologist practicing in the field of psychology for about 7 years. I have experience in working in various clinical settings including a school, psychiatric hospitals, autism family and resource center, intensive outpatient day treatment center, as well as private practice. My private practice consists of providing psychotherapy as well as psychological and neuropsychological testing. All of my clinical services are in English and Polish. My motto above states "What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make"-Jane Goodall.
Diverge Community Services
Occupational Therapist, MOT, OTR/L, CBIS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Riverside, IL 60546
The ideal client for Diverge Community Services is someone who is neurodivergent or thinks they might be neurodivergent who wants to improve their quality of life and understand their emotional, sensory, and executive functioning needs.
The ideal client for Diverge Community Services is someone who is neurodivergent or thinks they might be neurodivergent who wants to improve their quality of life and understand their emotional, sensory, and executive functioning needs.
I have helped families with adults and teens with disabilities to solve problems and meet their goals. I am experienced with treating challenging behaviors and teaching critical skills. Some skills I have assisted with: self management, mindfulness, activities of daily living, problem solving, executive functioning, job skills, community safety, and social skills.
I have helped families with adults and teens with disabilities to solve problems and meet their goals. I am experienced with treating challenging behaviors and teaching critical skills. Some skills I have assisted with: self management, mindfulness, activities of daily living, problem solving, executive functioning, job skills, community safety, and social skills.
Jessica K Paganis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
As a clinical social worker I am committed to providing therapeutic interventions that optimize the social and emotional well being of individuals, children and families. Support services are tailored to each individual while integrating the unique dynamics that define each persons social and family system. I support families and individuals through creating unique shifts in mindset, creating family oriented goals that increase positive behavior and social cohesiveness, provide Individual & Couples Counseling, and IEP Advocacy & Consultation.
As a clinical social worker I am committed to providing therapeutic interventions that optimize the social and emotional well being of individuals, children and families. Support services are tailored to each individual while integrating the unique dynamics that define each persons social and family system. I support families and individuals through creating unique shifts in mindset, creating family oriented goals that increase positive behavior and social cohesiveness, provide Individual & Couples Counseling, and IEP Advocacy & Consultation.
Are you looking for a competent, accepting and genuine therapist for yourself or your child? Do you or your family need support in your relationships? Is your kid struggling at school or at home? My name is Mihaela Bernard but most clients call me Misha. I specialize in counseling children and adolescents who struggle with behavioral and emotional issues. In my practice, we work together to help you and/or your family modify the way in which you relate to each other, and to improve the quality of your relationships.
Are you looking for a competent, accepting and genuine therapist for yourself or your child? Do you or your family need support in your relationships? Is your kid struggling at school or at home? My name is Mihaela Bernard but most clients call me Misha. I specialize in counseling children and adolescents who struggle with behavioral and emotional issues. In my practice, we work together to help you and/or your family modify the way in which you relate to each other, and to improve the quality of your relationships.
Margaret Engel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
Throughout my clinical experience, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals across the lifespan from a variety of demographic and experiential backgrounds. I have facilitated therapeutic work surrounding anxiety, depression, major life adjustments, grief, trauma, shame, substance-use and addiction, anger management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Throughout my clinical experience, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals across the lifespan from a variety of demographic and experiential backgrounds. I have facilitated therapeutic work surrounding anxiety, depression, major life adjustments, grief, trauma, shame, substance-use and addiction, anger management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! As a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, adults, and families, I offer support in a compassionate and comfortable environment. I strive to help people grow and thrive through solution focused counseling sessions, and I implement various treatment modalities, including the Safe and Sound Protocol music therapy program. I provide special education advocate services to help families navigate the special education process. Please reach out to take the first step toward getting support today.
Welcome! As a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, adults, and families, I offer support in a compassionate and comfortable environment. I strive to help people grow and thrive through solution focused counseling sessions, and I implement various treatment modalities, including the Safe and Sound Protocol music therapy program. I provide special education advocate services to help families navigate the special education process. Please reach out to take the first step toward getting support today.
Together, we can take mind-boggling considerations that may be weighing on you and break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. My passion is helping find solutions to reduce anxiety and sadness, build confidence, create healthier boundaries and enhance personal and professional relationships. I listen respectfully with warmth and positivity as concerns are heard, more effective communication strategies explored and clearer ways forward created.
Together, we can take mind-boggling considerations that may be weighing on you and break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. My passion is helping find solutions to reduce anxiety and sadness, build confidence, create healthier boundaries and enhance personal and professional relationships. I listen respectfully with warmth and positivity as concerns are heard, more effective communication strategies explored and clearer ways forward created.
My goal as a therapist is to help you reach your fullest potential. I specialize in therapeutic interventions which help alleviate your emotional challenges. I create awareness through an integrative approach utilizing a variety of modalities that best fit your needs. I love working with children, teens, & adults! I treat clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, parenting concerns, relationship issues & infidelity. I utilize CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Strength Based, and Trauma Focused strategies to help clients meet their treatment goals.
My goal as a therapist is to help you reach your fullest potential. I specialize in therapeutic interventions which help alleviate your emotional challenges. I create awareness through an integrative approach utilizing a variety of modalities that best fit your needs. I love working with children, teens, & adults! I treat clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, parenting concerns, relationship issues & infidelity. I utilize CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Strength Based, and Trauma Focused strategies to help clients meet their treatment goals.
See more therapy options for Brookfield
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Brookfield
- Berwyn
- Burr Ridge
- Elmhurst
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Oak Brook
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Western Springs
- Willowbrook
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.