Autism Therapists in Elmwood Park, IL

Photo of Dawn Stewart-Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Stewart-Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60635
Is your child experiencing feelings of sadness or anxiety that have begun to impact everyday life and activities? Is your child stressed about school, avoiding school or having trouble with friendships? Do they struggle with focus and attention to the point that it impacts grades as well as relationships? I can help with identifying and managing strong emotions through the development of new coping tools and strategies. I offer a positive and encouraging space to support my clients in acquiring new skills, adapting to and managing life’s changes and bringing out strengths and abilities.
Is your child experiencing feelings of sadness or anxiety that have begun to impact everyday life and activities? Is your child stressed about school, avoiding school or having trouble with friendships? Do they struggle with focus and attention to the point that it impacts grades as well as relationships? I can help with identifying and managing strong emotions through the development of new coping tools and strategies. I offer a positive and encouraging space to support my clients in acquiring new skills, adapting to and managing life’s changes and bringing out strengths and abilities.
(708) 726-8858 View (708) 726-8858
Photo of Jeanette Lee, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanette Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60635
I support individuals, couples, and families under stress. Together, we uncover contexts and patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are causing challenges. Often, you as the client may already know the answers but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
I support individuals, couples, and families under stress. Together, we uncover contexts and patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are causing challenges. Often, you as the client may already know the answers but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
(708) 498-3785 View (708) 498-3785
Photo of Katarina Berin, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katarina Berin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
Welcome and best wishes on your search for help. I am an experienced, mature clinician and I offer a compassionate, calm and supportive environment in which clients can work through their experiences, learn to feel their emotions in a healthy way, and find new ways of engaging with their problems. My clients will focus on improving their relationships, and on how to feel better at home, school and work. I can help manage change and stress when you are feeling overwhelmed by events, whether that is a specific issue or a problem that has snowballed over time. Please reach out.
Welcome and best wishes on your search for help. I am an experienced, mature clinician and I offer a compassionate, calm and supportive environment in which clients can work through their experiences, learn to feel their emotions in a healthy way, and find new ways of engaging with their problems. My clients will focus on improving their relationships, and on how to feel better at home, school and work. I can help manage change and stress when you are feeling overwhelmed by events, whether that is a specific issue or a problem that has snowballed over time. Please reach out.
(872) 231-3268 View (872) 231-3268
Photo of Sarah H Krcmarik, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah H Krcmarik
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
We all have words in our heart that are difficult to speak. Therapy is a great opportunity to bring voice to those words and make sense of their meaning so we can have a greater understanding of who we are and our place in this world. I view therapy as a unique opportunity to know and understand yourself in more profound and meaningful ways so as to allow true clarity, purpose, and healing in everyday life. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and, ultimately, we will work together to bridge your inner emotional life to past and current experiences to then provide a renewed and hopeful understanding of yourself.
We all have words in our heart that are difficult to speak. Therapy is a great opportunity to bring voice to those words and make sense of their meaning so we can have a greater understanding of who we are and our place in this world. I view therapy as a unique opportunity to know and understand yourself in more profound and meaningful ways so as to allow true clarity, purpose, and healing in everyday life. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and, ultimately, we will work together to bridge your inner emotional life to past and current experiences to then provide a renewed and hopeful understanding of yourself.
(708) 627-2274 View (708) 627-2274

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Courtney Thompson Lsw Psy.d. Candidate, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Thompson Lsw Psy.d. Candidate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Harwood Heights, IL 60706
I am a Licensed Social Worker and have experience working with adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, addiction, eating disorders, and codependency.
Living in a city as big as Chicago offers many opportunities yet it can sometimes feel overwhelming, lonely, and even isolating. Are you hiding certain pieces of yourself from your friends or family to avoid conflict or to fit in? You might feel like no one knows the real you. You’ve noticed a shift in how you deal with stress. Maybe it’s coming out as increased drinking, binging or restricting food, or turning to other coping behaviors. Or maybe you’re in recovery but other parts of your life continue to feel unmanageable which feels frustrating. You no longer need to feel trapped. Change is possible and hope can be found.
I am a Licensed Social Worker and have experience working with adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, addiction, eating disorders, and codependency.
Living in a city as big as Chicago offers many opportunities yet it can sometimes feel overwhelming, lonely, and even isolating. Are you hiding certain pieces of yourself from your friends or family to avoid conflict or to fit in? You might feel like no one knows the real you. You’ve noticed a shift in how you deal with stress. Maybe it’s coming out as increased drinking, binging or restricting food, or turning to other coping behaviors. Or maybe you’re in recovery but other parts of your life continue to feel unmanageable which feels frustrating. You no longer need to feel trapped. Change is possible and hope can be found.
(312) 756-0287 View (312) 756-0287
Photo of Alif Muhammad, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alif Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
Waitlist for new clients
Al treats a wide array of clients, particularly those who experience anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
Our journey in life can sometimes burn us out and make us feel hollow. It can leave us wondering about our worth and purpose in life. That's why it's so important to find a therapist who will always respect you and guide you back to the person you truly are.
Al treats a wide array of clients, particularly those who experience anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
Our journey in life can sometimes burn us out and make us feel hollow. It can leave us wondering about our worth and purpose in life. That's why it's so important to find a therapist who will always respect you and guide you back to the person you truly are.
(312) 471-0341 View (312) 471-0341
Photo of Dr. Katie Hejna, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Katie Hejna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
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.
(312) 663-8317 View (312) 663-8317
Photo of Adam James Selkirk, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam James Selkirk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
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.
(773) 825-5078 View (773) 825-5078
Photo of Joshua Boyd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60639  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
(773) 830-3374 View (773) 830-3374
Photo of Maria Adducci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Adducci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Welcome! LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Maria Adducci is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois. Maria uses a warm, open, client-centered, and empathetic clinical approach. She has extensive experience doing therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults, caregivers, and families with a wide variety of specializations including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), grief and loss, and trauma.
Welcome! LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Maria Adducci is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois. Maria uses a warm, open, client-centered, and empathetic clinical approach. She has extensive experience doing therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults, caregivers, and families with a wide variety of specializations including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), grief and loss, and trauma.
(708) 914-8257 View (708) 914-8257
Photo of Corinne Serra Smith, EdD, LCPC, NCSP, Counselor
Corinne Serra Smith
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCSP
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
(331) 979-3104 View (331) 979-3104
Photo of Staci Zerphey, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Staci Zerphey
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I have experience working with older children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with life transitions, self-esteem, identity issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and trauma experiences. I am knowledgeable and affirming in supporting neurodiverse clients who have autism and/or ADHD, as well as individuals exploring or holding LGBTQIA+ identities. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds and practice with an awareness of these social and economic influences.
I have experience working with older children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with life transitions, self-esteem, identity issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and trauma experiences. I am knowledgeable and affirming in supporting neurodiverse clients who have autism and/or ADHD, as well as individuals exploring or holding LGBTQIA+ identities. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds and practice with an awareness of these social and economic influences.
(708) 719-9218 View (708) 719-9218
Nicole Shannon Christen
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
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.
(708) 722-8105 View (708) 722-8105
Photo of Alexander Serrano, MS Ed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Serrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS Ed, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
(312) 586-9395 View (312) 586-9395
Photo of Dawn La Brose - Autism & Anxiety Therapists, INC., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autism & Anxiety Therapists, INC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Individualized goals are developed for each client and family. Therapy sessions are tailored to match these goals, as well as the unique interpersonal and organizational needs of each client. A variety of treatment strategies are used to target these goals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies, the use of structure to promote organization and the development of new skills, social problem- solving strategies, and perspective taking strategies.
Individualized goals are developed for each client and family. Therapy sessions are tailored to match these goals, as well as the unique interpersonal and organizational needs of each client. A variety of treatment strategies are used to target these goals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies, the use of structure to promote organization and the development of new skills, social problem- solving strategies, and perspective taking strategies.
(708) 406-6590 View (708) 406-6590
Photo of Holly DeRosa Walejeski, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Holly DeRosa Walejeski
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My approach as a therapist is warm, kind, and relatable. Recognizing that therapy can be a difficult step to make I strive to help you navigate through the problems that are causing stress or pain. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or your child I am dedicated to helping explore what is preventing you in moving forward in life. I work with individuals with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and depression to parenting issues and childhood behavioral problems.
My approach as a therapist is warm, kind, and relatable. Recognizing that therapy can be a difficult step to make I strive to help you navigate through the problems that are causing stress or pain. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or your child I am dedicated to helping explore what is preventing you in moving forward in life. I work with individuals with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and depression to parenting issues and childhood behavioral problems.
(773) 786-9156 View (773) 786-9156
Photo of Kathleen McShane - Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc, LCPC, MA, CCTP, Counselor
Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc
Counselor, LCPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60303
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
(708) 340-6719 View (708) 340-6719
Photo of Shanelle Marie Koroma, LPHA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanelle Marie Koroma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPHA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60639
*Specializes in teletherapy* Shanelle is a mental health therapist, trainer, author, and life coach. Having experienced a multitude of obstacles, Shanelle decided at a young age to spend her life's purpose learning to heal and helping others to heal. Shanelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing mental health counseling since 2016. Shanelle enjoys family, painting, gardening, and self-development. Shanelle's ideal client is a person in the Action phase of change, and a person who is willing to try new skills inside and outside of sessions.
*Specializes in teletherapy* Shanelle is a mental health therapist, trainer, author, and life coach. Having experienced a multitude of obstacles, Shanelle decided at a young age to spend her life's purpose learning to heal and helping others to heal. Shanelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing mental health counseling since 2016. Shanelle enjoys family, painting, gardening, and self-development. Shanelle's ideal client is a person in the Action phase of change, and a person who is willing to try new skills inside and outside of sessions.
(217) 394-1346 View (217) 394-1346
Photo of Riley Brennan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Riley Brennan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
As a relational therapist, I believe you are not the problem; the problem is how you’ve become bound by your life and relationship experiences. I provide an authentic, nonjudgmental space to explore how ingrained patterns have influenced your life and how you can move forward to live the life you want. I am a radical, no-bs abolitionist queer Jew. I welcome people with all identities, religions and politics. I specialize in working with people who have caused harm, couples, court-involved families, and teenagers.
As a relational therapist, I believe you are not the problem; the problem is how you’ve become bound by your life and relationship experiences. I provide an authentic, nonjudgmental space to explore how ingrained patterns have influenced your life and how you can move forward to live the life you want. I am a radical, no-bs abolitionist queer Jew. I welcome people with all identities, religions and politics. I specialize in working with people who have caused harm, couples, court-involved families, and teenagers.
(708) 412-4469 View (708) 412-4469
Photo of Alexandra Oeser, BFA, MAATC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Oeser
Pre-Licensed Professional, BFA, MAATC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am an art therapist and counselor who works with children, adults, older adults and couples. I have experience working with clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I utilize a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, and use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and art therapy practices.
I am an art therapist and counselor who works with children, adults, older adults and couples. I have experience working with clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I utilize a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, and use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and art therapy practices.
(773) 825-3747 View (773) 825-3747

See more therapy options for Elmwood Park

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.