Autism Therapists in Oak Lawn, IL

Photo of Thomas Schlieske, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas Schlieske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
I've specialized in issues pertaining to autism, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder, and divorce.
It is a privilege to support others as they go through life's challenges. I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental and nurturing environment so, adolescents, young adults, and adults are comfortable working through a range of issues.
I've specialized in issues pertaining to autism, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder, and divorce.
It is a privilege to support others as they go through life's challenges. I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental and nurturing environment so, adolescents, young adults, and adults are comfortable working through a range of issues.
(708) 249-3306 View (708) 249-3306
Photo of Amanda Skierkiewicz, EdD, NCSP, Psychologist
Amanda Skierkiewicz
Psychologist, EdD, NCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Dr. Amanda Skierkiewicz specializes in working with pediatric clients with learning disabilities and difficulties, executive dysfunction, and social emotional challenges. Dr. Amanda is extremely passionate about her work in school advocacy and consultation. She worked as Nationally Certified School Psychologist in her previous role. Her role allowed her to establish an extensive knowledge of academic support systems, IEPs, and 504s. This background also allows for a seamless integration of evaluation results and findings into practical, school-friendly recommendations for interventions to maximize each individual’s potential.
Dr. Amanda Skierkiewicz specializes in working with pediatric clients with learning disabilities and difficulties, executive dysfunction, and social emotional challenges. Dr. Amanda is extremely passionate about her work in school advocacy and consultation. She worked as Nationally Certified School Psychologist in her previous role. Her role allowed her to establish an extensive knowledge of academic support systems, IEPs, and 504s. This background also allows for a seamless integration of evaluation results and findings into practical, school-friendly recommendations for interventions to maximize each individual’s potential.
(224) 347-7577 View (224) 347-7577
Photo of Nicole Rodriguez, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453  (Online Only)
My clients have a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Emotional Disturbance, and Behavioral Issues. Clients often require psychoeducation, identifying emotions and somatic symptoms, use of a variety of coping skills, behavioral management techniques including contingency management, knowledge of social skills and opportunities to practice such skills. My goal for every client is to help them find their motivation, gain knowledge about their issues, and to be able to effectively manage their issues.
My clients have a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Emotional Disturbance, and Behavioral Issues. Clients often require psychoeducation, identifying emotions and somatic symptoms, use of a variety of coping skills, behavioral management techniques including contingency management, knowledge of social skills and opportunities to practice such skills. My goal for every client is to help them find their motivation, gain knowledge about their issues, and to be able to effectively manage their issues.
(708) 726-0520 View (708) 726-0520
Photo of Kathy Abbott - Kathy Abbott, Psy D, PC, Psy, D, BCIA-NF, QEEGDip, Psychologist
Kathy Abbott, Psy D, PC
Psychologist, Psy, D, BCIA-NF, QEEGDip
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
I believe in your potential to be the best posssible. I believe that you already have many gifts, and that you have information about your self that we can use to help you move in the the direction you want to go with your life.
I believe in your potential to be the best posssible. I believe that you already have many gifts, and that you have information about your self that we can use to help you move in the the direction you want to go with your life.
(773) 683-1672 View (773) 683-1672
Photo of Jasmyn Flannigan, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmyn Flannigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Jasmyn Flannigan. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School, and am working toward my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at National Louis University. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, mood instability, & relationship issues. I enjoy working with individuals navigating overwhelming levels of stress related to academics, relationships, work, and change. I strive to provide clients a collaborative, authentic, and supportive space to address their concerns, foster their strengths, and enhance their overall well-being.
Hi, I’m Jasmyn Flannigan. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School, and am working toward my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at National Louis University. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, mood instability, & relationship issues. I enjoy working with individuals navigating overwhelming levels of stress related to academics, relationships, work, and change. I strive to provide clients a collaborative, authentic, and supportive space to address their concerns, foster their strengths, and enhance their overall well-being.
(708) 734-6403 View (708) 734-6403
Photo of Courtney Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Are you beginning to notice a change in your child(ren)'s behavior and/or attitude recently? Do you feel that a change needs to be made but are unsure of how therapy can help or how to tackle the next steps? Sometimes a child's shift in behavior can occur slowly over a course of time while other children seem to shift overnight. Whether your child is experiencing tantrums, difficulty falling asleep, seeming suddenly more irritable, using increase negative self- talk, adjusting to new life events, or appears to be "grumpy" all of the time- I am here to help you better understand age appropriate development through the life span.
Are you beginning to notice a change in your child(ren)'s behavior and/or attitude recently? Do you feel that a change needs to be made but are unsure of how therapy can help or how to tackle the next steps? Sometimes a child's shift in behavior can occur slowly over a course of time while other children seem to shift overnight. Whether your child is experiencing tantrums, difficulty falling asleep, seeming suddenly more irritable, using increase negative self- talk, adjusting to new life events, or appears to be "grumpy" all of the time- I am here to help you better understand age appropriate development through the life span.
(708) 578-6372 View (708) 578-6372
Photo of Adam Becerra, MA, LCPC, CRC, Counselor
Adam Becerra
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Not accepting new clients
With 10+ years of experience, I have grown to believe that therapy is a personal journey involving self exploration, rediscovering one’s strengths, and learning new tools through transitional and difficult periods in life. I understand therapy as a process that is unique to the individual and therefore creates a focus on how therapy best fits the uniqueness of each client. I feel that therapy is a journey where the therapist and client identify a road map towards individual goals together, while working to establish the confidence and the resources so that the client may best continue their journey after therapy.
With 10+ years of experience, I have grown to believe that therapy is a personal journey involving self exploration, rediscovering one’s strengths, and learning new tools through transitional and difficult periods in life. I understand therapy as a process that is unique to the individual and therefore creates a focus on how therapy best fits the uniqueness of each client. I feel that therapy is a journey where the therapist and client identify a road map towards individual goals together, while working to establish the confidence and the resources so that the client may best continue their journey after therapy.
(708) 933-5824 View (708) 933-5824
Photo of Jillian Rawl, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Jillian Rawl
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I understand that coming to counseling is not always easy. I am here to help you through whatever challenges you face with an open mind, without judgment, and attentive listening. Counseling is most effective when you feel comfortable with the therapist you choose . I will do my best to make you feel as comfortable as possible and build a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship with you so I can best help you achieve your goals. I have a strength-based approach and work from a cognitive behavioral orientation, using skills of CBT and DBT.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I understand that coming to counseling is not always easy. I am here to help you through whatever challenges you face with an open mind, without judgment, and attentive listening. Counseling is most effective when you feel comfortable with the therapist you choose . I will do my best to make you feel as comfortable as possible and build a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship with you so I can best help you achieve your goals. I have a strength-based approach and work from a cognitive behavioral orientation, using skills of CBT and DBT.
(708) 636-2211 View (708) 636-2211

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ken Chen, PhD, Psychologist
Ken Chen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist based in Chicago. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, Autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I believe everyone has potential to live a promising and satisfying life if you dare to challenge your way of thinking, your way of feeling and your way of actions. The feelings might be overwhelming right now, but they can prompt you to evaluate and make changes right now to benefit your future.
I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist based in Chicago. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, Autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I believe everyone has potential to live a promising and satisfying life if you dare to challenge your way of thinking, your way of feeling and your way of actions. The feelings might be overwhelming right now, but they can prompt you to evaluate and make changes right now to benefit your future.
(224) 455-8758 View (224) 455-8758
Photo of Kirsten Leininger, MS, CADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kirsten Leininger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CADC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a focus on complex trauma, PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, emotional neglect/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and substance use. As a DIR Practitioner, I work with neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, focusing on regulation, engagement, and self-awareness through developmental, individual differences, and relationship-based lenses.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a focus on complex trauma, PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, emotional neglect/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and substance use. As a DIR Practitioner, I work with neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, focusing on regulation, engagement, and self-awareness through developmental, individual differences, and relationship-based lenses.
(708) 729-6863 View (708) 729-6863
Photo of Reenee M Hill - Children's Advocate LLC, Bcba
Children's Advocate LLC
Bcba
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of errorless learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you're struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of errorless learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you're struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
(708) 265-3350 View (708) 265-3350
Photo of Rachael Anderson, MA, LPC, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629
My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, grief and loss, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I have a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, & evidence-based interventions. Along with my skills I use warmth, professionalism, humor, and expertise into my practice. I provide unconditional acceptance as clients share their story with me. I provide each client with individualized treatment plans to best support their needs while considering the complexity of their individual identity. I work to create a collaborative environment from a strength-based approach to help identify goals rooted in client’s values and continue to develop areas of focus as they make progress throughout our sessions.
My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, grief and loss, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I have a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, & evidence-based interventions. Along with my skills I use warmth, professionalism, humor, and expertise into my practice. I provide unconditional acceptance as clients share their story with me. I provide each client with individualized treatment plans to best support their needs while considering the complexity of their individual identity. I work to create a collaborative environment from a strength-based approach to help identify goals rooted in client’s values and continue to develop areas of focus as they make progress throughout our sessions.
(872) 250-4518 View (872) 250-4518
Photo of Jennifer Black, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637  (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 17+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 17+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
(224) 830-9800 View (224) 830-9800
Photo of Reenee M Jackson-Hill - Children\'s Advocate LLC, BCBA, MA, LCSW
Children\'s Advocate LLC
BCBA, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of error-less learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you are struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of error-less learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you are struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
(844) 986-2566 View (844) 986-2566
Photo of Edie Morris, ATR, LCPC, Counselor
Edie Morris
Counselor, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to support your journey towards coping, healing, and growing through an integration of talk and art therapy services. I am a queer and neurodivergent affirming, fat positive, and BIPOC ally clinician. I have a passion and specialized experience in working with peoples with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, physical disabilities, parents, therapists, and other care providers.
My goal is to support your journey towards coping, healing, and growing through an integration of talk and art therapy services. I am a queer and neurodivergent affirming, fat positive, and BIPOC ally clinician. I have a passion and specialized experience in working with peoples with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, physical disabilities, parents, therapists, and other care providers.
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Photo of Susan Sherbon, LCSW, EdS, BCBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Sherbon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I worked as a school social worker, administrator, autism consultant, behavior coach, public speaker and parent trainer.
Do you feel overwhelmed by day-to-day living? Is there something weighing heavily on your mind that is affecting your ability to function as well as you want to? Being able to talk about those feelings with someone can be a huge relief. I believe that establishing a good relationship between the therapist and the client is critical to the healing process. Using a non-judgmental approach, I work with my clients to explore and identify what is the root cause of the distress and together, we set goals for solutions to managing or overcoming the source of the issue.
I worked as a school social worker, administrator, autism consultant, behavior coach, public speaker and parent trainer.
Do you feel overwhelmed by day-to-day living? Is there something weighing heavily on your mind that is affecting your ability to function as well as you want to? Being able to talk about those feelings with someone can be a huge relief. I believe that establishing a good relationship between the therapist and the client is critical to the healing process. Using a non-judgmental approach, I work with my clients to explore and identify what is the root cause of the distress and together, we set goals for solutions to managing or overcoming the source of the issue.
(815) 367-8733 View (815) 367-8733
Photo of Rachel Winborn, MFA, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Winborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
Rachel’s creative background lends itself to an intuitive therapeutic practice and her recent training as a Social Worker brings her grounded in the world of each individual she works with. Rachel is an attuned, empathetic listener, who focuses on her clients’ needs. She has experience working with persons with chronic distress, complex PTSD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity ( autism, ADHD, learning differences), faith-based injury/inquiry, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, parenting, family, and relationship issues.
Rachel’s creative background lends itself to an intuitive therapeutic practice and her recent training as a Social Worker brings her grounded in the world of each individual she works with. Rachel is an attuned, empathetic listener, who focuses on her clients’ needs. She has experience working with persons with chronic distress, complex PTSD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity ( autism, ADHD, learning differences), faith-based injury/inquiry, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, parenting, family, and relationship issues.
(630) 446-6692 View (630) 446-6692
Photo of Seena Abed, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Seena Abed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Specializing in the care of children and adolescents, I focus on addressing issues such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioral problems, and stress management.
As a dedicated clinician, my primary goal is to guide you through life's challenges and help you develop effective coping strategies. With extensive experience in implementing behavioral plans and designated interventions, I have worked with clients facing a range of intellectual disabilities, including autism. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives tailored and effective support.
Specializing in the care of children and adolescents, I focus on addressing issues such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioral problems, and stress management.
As a dedicated clinician, my primary goal is to guide you through life's challenges and help you develop effective coping strategies. With extensive experience in implementing behavioral plans and designated interventions, I have worked with clients facing a range of intellectual disabilities, including autism. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives tailored and effective support.
(708) 815-8291 View (708) 815-8291
Photo of Kasey Zaremba, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kasey Zaremba
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Hello there, thank you for taking the first step into your healing journey! I know it wasn't easy! Hopefully I can help! I'm a compassionate clinical therapist with a diverse background in supporting individuals of all ages, including those with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, autism (ASD), intellectual/developmental disabilities, as well as clients experiencing chronic pain. With a focus on both children and adults, I bring several years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health care across inpatient, therapeutic day schools, PHP/IOP, and outpatient settings.
Hello there, thank you for taking the first step into your healing journey! I know it wasn't easy! Hopefully I can help! I'm a compassionate clinical therapist with a diverse background in supporting individuals of all ages, including those with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, autism (ASD), intellectual/developmental disabilities, as well as clients experiencing chronic pain. With a focus on both children and adults, I bring several years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health care across inpatient, therapeutic day schools, PHP/IOP, and outpatient settings.
(708) 847-3767 View (708) 847-3767
Photo of Lisa Kuban, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Kuban
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Palos Hills, IL 60465
I hold certifications in autism disorders and crisis/trauma disorders.
I believe that therapy should be a journey that my clients and I travel together. I like to work collaboratively with them to empower them and teach them tools and resources they can use to help them improve their quality of life. I want everyone I see to feel comfortable so I try to provide a welcoming space free of judgment. I am passionate about caring for each and every individual who comes to me for care. I come from a more personal approach as opposed to a clinical one.
I hold certifications in autism disorders and crisis/trauma disorders.
I believe that therapy should be a journey that my clients and I travel together. I like to work collaboratively with them to empower them and teach them tools and resources they can use to help them improve their quality of life. I want everyone I see to feel comfortable so I try to provide a welcoming space free of judgment. I am passionate about caring for each and every individual who comes to me for care. I come from a more personal approach as opposed to a clinical one.
(708) 292-4192 View (708) 292-4192
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.