Autism Therapists in River Forest, IL
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!
Megan Seliga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305 (Online Only)
Each stage of life brings different challenges that test our ability to adapt, but our need for support to bolster ourselves during these times remains the same. Whether you are struggling to establish a new normal in the face of shifting life circumstances, coping with a long-standing physical or mental illness, feeling the strain of caring for a loved one with an illness or a disability, or simply feeling blocked on your path to fulfillment, you deserve a space dedicated to your needs. I strive to create a space where anyone can feel welcome, and I believe that therapy is a pursuit from which everyone could derive a benefit.
Each stage of life brings different challenges that test our ability to adapt, but our need for support to bolster ourselves during these times remains the same. Whether you are struggling to establish a new normal in the face of shifting life circumstances, coping with a long-standing physical or mental illness, feeling the strain of caring for a loved one with an illness or a disability, or simply feeling blocked on your path to fulfillment, you deserve a space dedicated to your needs. I strive to create a space where anyone can feel welcome, and I believe that therapy is a pursuit from which everyone could derive a benefit.
Colleen Carraher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Knowing which steps to take when your child or your family is struggling can be challenging. You may worry about your child’s well-being, their ability to thrive, and your family’s overall functioning and sense of harmony. You should not have to navigate these challenges and feelings alone – I can help you and your child throughout this process. I am passionate about helping create safe spaces for children, parents, and families to process, learn, and grow.
Knowing which steps to take when your child or your family is struggling can be challenging. You may worry about your child’s well-being, their ability to thrive, and your family’s overall functioning and sense of harmony. You should not have to navigate these challenges and feelings alone – I can help you and your child throughout this process. I am passionate about helping create safe spaces for children, parents, and families to process, learn, and grow.
Kelsey Suglich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
No matter what challenges you may be experiencing, you are valid in seeking support. Being a child, teenager, young adult, or parent is hard. Every stage brings new obstacles, relationships, hopes, and fears. I am here to hold a space for you, your child, and your family to explore and process whatever you need. You can count on me to provide an environment that encourages honesty, vulnerability, and resiliency. I am passionate about supporting my clients in their pursuit of growth and connection.
No matter what challenges you may be experiencing, you are valid in seeking support. Being a child, teenager, young adult, or parent is hard. Every stage brings new obstacles, relationships, hopes, and fears. I am here to hold a space for you, your child, and your family to explore and process whatever you need. You can count on me to provide an environment that encourages honesty, vulnerability, and resiliency. I am passionate about supporting my clients in their pursuit of growth and connection.
Chicago Center for Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
At CCP, our therapists bring curiosity, lived experience, extensive training, and our own authentic selves to each session. We'll work collaboratively with you and tailor our approach to your unique needs using integrated modalities—including DBT, IFS, Imago, EMDR, relational psychotherapy, and more—ensuring you'll find comfort, connection, and the courage to embrace radical agency and growth. With self-knowledge and radical acceptance as our guides, we'll help you dive deep, strip away the fear and doubt, and transform your battles into badges of strength and self-awareness.
At CCP, our therapists bring curiosity, lived experience, extensive training, and our own authentic selves to each session. We'll work collaboratively with you and tailor our approach to your unique needs using integrated modalities—including DBT, IFS, Imago, EMDR, relational psychotherapy, and more—ensuring you'll find comfort, connection, and the courage to embrace radical agency and growth. With self-knowledge and radical acceptance as our guides, we'll help you dive deep, strip away the fear and doubt, and transform your battles into badges of strength and self-awareness.
Cherie Hamaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
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.
Margaret McGonegal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305 (Online Only)
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
Amy Carbone, LCSW, is dedicated to providing compassionate and empathetic care to her clients, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and safe throughout their therapeutic journey. Amy offers a welcoming environment where clients can comfortably explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. She is particularly passionate about supporting teens, adults, and seniors, helping them navigate life’s complexities with a blend of empathetic listening and practical, evidence-based interventions. Amy is deeply committed to addressing a range of mental health concerns, with a particular focus on anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Amy Carbone, LCSW, is dedicated to providing compassionate and empathetic care to her clients, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and safe throughout their therapeutic journey. Amy offers a welcoming environment where clients can comfortably explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. She is particularly passionate about supporting teens, adults, and seniors, helping them navigate life’s complexities with a blend of empathetic listening and practical, evidence-based interventions. Amy is deeply committed to addressing a range of mental health concerns, with a particular focus on anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Julia Sostrin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. Julia meets clients where they are at, with more than a decade working with multiple diagnoses and disorders. She uses integrative and eclectic approaches in order to help clients find resolutions to issues and identify patterns which may be causing them issues. Julia has worked at all levels of care and often will employ modalities and treatment approach which best fit for the client in front of her. She will do this to help them move at a speed they can feel comfortable and happy with to make the progress they hope to see.
Julia Sostrin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. Julia meets clients where they are at, with more than a decade working with multiple diagnoses and disorders. She uses integrative and eclectic approaches in order to help clients find resolutions to issues and identify patterns which may be causing them issues. Julia has worked at all levels of care and often will employ modalities and treatment approach which best fit for the client in front of her. She will do this to help them move at a speed they can feel comfortable and happy with to make the progress they hope to see.
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
See more therapy options for River Forest
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for River Forest
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Burr Ridge
- Chicago
- Elmhurst
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- Oak Park
- Oakbrook Terrace
- Park Ridge
- Western Springs
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.