Autism Therapists in Skokie, IL

Photo of Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop (Neuropsychology), PhD, Psychologist
Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop (Neuropsychology)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Dr. Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop is a graduate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a pediatric neuropsychologist with extensive experience working with the pediatric and adolescent population both domestically and internationally. She organizes and conducts positive parenting seminars, psychosocial workshops, and has worked especially with children who have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disability, language disorders, mood disorders, behavioral problems, developmental delays, trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop is a graduate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a pediatric neuropsychologist with extensive experience working with the pediatric and adolescent population both domestically and internationally. She organizes and conducts positive parenting seminars, psychosocial workshops, and has worked especially with children who have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disability, language disorders, mood disorders, behavioral problems, developmental delays, trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
(224) 257-3898 View (224) 257-3898
Photo of Idalia Karolina Walo, Ed D, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Idalia Karolina Walo
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed D, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
I am a licensed professional counselor providing individual and family therapy in Polish and English language. I like to establish an open communication and trust with my clients, so we can better understand each other. Through an effective communication, I can help my clients develop guidelines for making accurate life decisions. I like working with children to help them achieve their full potential in life. I use variety of psychological testing to better understand my client's behavior, skills, thoughts, and personality. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) behavioral therapy program.
I am a licensed professional counselor providing individual and family therapy in Polish and English language. I like to establish an open communication and trust with my clients, so we can better understand each other. Through an effective communication, I can help my clients develop guidelines for making accurate life decisions. I like working with children to help them achieve their full potential in life. I use variety of psychological testing to better understand my client's behavior, skills, thoughts, and personality. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) behavioral therapy program.
(847) 744-8712 View (847) 744-8712
Photo of Nicole Summers, Psy, D, Psychologist
Nicole Summers
Psychologist, Psy, D
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
I have several years of experience with identifying and clarifying various diagnoses including developmental delays, ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, impulse control issues, medical comorbidities, and mood disorders.
I offer a whole-person approach to testing and assessment and actively collaborate with other professionals to provide thorough and integrated findings and observations.
I have several years of experience with identifying and clarifying various diagnoses including developmental delays, ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, impulse control issues, medical comorbidities, and mood disorders.
I offer a whole-person approach to testing and assessment and actively collaborate with other professionals to provide thorough and integrated findings and observations.
(872) 201-3134 View (872) 201-3134
Photo of Brandon Branch, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Brandon Branch
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Brandon believes that good therapy shows us how to tap into our own resilience to foster long-term change and personal growth. Brandon specializes in working with individuals with depression, anxiety, anger management issues and life transitions of all varieties. Brandon also works with clients with behavioral disorders, those on the autism spectrum, and with clients addressing intergenerational trauma and challenges associated with communities of color.
Brandon believes that good therapy shows us how to tap into our own resilience to foster long-term change and personal growth. Brandon specializes in working with individuals with depression, anxiety, anger management issues and life transitions of all varieties. Brandon also works with clients with behavioral disorders, those on the autism spectrum, and with clients addressing intergenerational trauma and challenges associated with communities of color.
(224) 714-0396 View (224) 714-0396
Photo of Santina Maria Bianco, MA
Santina Maria Bianco
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60076
Some common concerns I help my clients address include autism, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder, anger management, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
Some common concerns I help my clients address include autism, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder, anger management, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
(872) 250-5307 View (872) 250-5307
Photo of Martha J Kowalczyk, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Martha J Kowalczyk
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076  (Online Only)
With expertise in schools, I am uniquely qualified in supporting families, children, and adolescents in navigating child and adolescent mental health issues, including depression, mood/anxiety disorders, Autism, learning differences and attention deficit, divorce, motivation and self-esteem, loss/bereavement, social difficulties, and trauma.
Sincere, compassionate, and knowledgeable, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience treating adults, children, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds. Educated in psychodynamic psychotherapy and incorporating cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness techniques, I strive to create a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment, while helping you process earlier life experiences and implement healthier coping skills. I focus on a collaborative process in providing you with prevention and interventions towards your current stressors.
With expertise in schools, I am uniquely qualified in supporting families, children, and adolescents in navigating child and adolescent mental health issues, including depression, mood/anxiety disorders, Autism, learning differences and attention deficit, divorce, motivation and self-esteem, loss/bereavement, social difficulties, and trauma.
Sincere, compassionate, and knowledgeable, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience treating adults, children, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds. Educated in psychodynamic psychotherapy and incorporating cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness techniques, I strive to create a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment, while helping you process earlier life experiences and implement healthier coping skills. I focus on a collaborative process in providing you with prevention and interventions towards your current stressors.
(312) 778-5793 View (312) 778-5793
Photo of Charles Weiss, LCPC
Charles Weiss
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
How many of those faulty narratives do you hold in your head, that are keeping you from moving forward? You are the one who knows yourself better than anyone else. So how does this process works? By sharing your story and being curious, I can help you connect the dots between your thoughts, emotions, impulses, behaviors and blind spots. I want to understand what shaped you and the patterns that contributed to how you see yourself. We will embrace this excursion collaboratively.
How many of those faulty narratives do you hold in your head, that are keeping you from moving forward? You are the one who knows yourself better than anyone else. So how does this process works? By sharing your story and being curious, I can help you connect the dots between your thoughts, emotions, impulses, behaviors and blind spots. I want to understand what shaped you and the patterns that contributed to how you see yourself. We will embrace this excursion collaboratively.
(224) 478-0791 View (224) 478-0791
Photo of Bridget Murphy, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60076
I'm passionate about treating kids, teens, and young adults with a specific specialty in behavioral issues, anxiety & OCD. After working in schools for two years, I am intimately familiar with helping children and families manage academic stressors and navigate the school setting with minimal interference from psychological distress.
I'm passionate about treating kids, teens, and young adults with a specific specialty in behavioral issues, anxiety & OCD. After working in schools for two years, I am intimately familiar with helping children and families manage academic stressors and navigate the school setting with minimal interference from psychological distress.
(847) 908-9595 View (847) 908-9595
Diane Selinger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I am a clinical psychologist working with children, adolescents and adults for more than thirty years. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to help facilitate emotional growth and to help people address the significant areas of their lives that are not going well. I believe that a collaborative relationship is most important for a successful therapeutic experience. I help people explore their emotional life in order to achieve more vital, satisfying and productive relationships with others, as well as with their own self. I try to help everyone according to their unique needs and strengths.
I am a clinical psychologist working with children, adolescents and adults for more than thirty years. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to help facilitate emotional growth and to help people address the significant areas of their lives that are not going well. I believe that a collaborative relationship is most important for a successful therapeutic experience. I help people explore their emotional life in order to achieve more vital, satisfying and productive relationships with others, as well as with their own self. I try to help everyone according to their unique needs and strengths.
(847) 951-6851 View (847) 951-6851
Photo of Paul Cantz - Orchard Wellness, PLLC, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Orchard Wellness, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Clinicians at Orchard Wellness are highly skilled mental health providers who deeply value your health and wellbeing and respect the challenges that you and/or your children or family is experiencing. We take great pride in providing our community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. Our mission is to improve people's lives, one at a time. We base our success on helping people live and feel better.
Clinicians at Orchard Wellness are highly skilled mental health providers who deeply value your health and wellbeing and respect the challenges that you and/or your children or family is experiencing. We take great pride in providing our community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. Our mission is to improve people's lives, one at a time. We base our success on helping people live and feel better.
(224) 864-9512 View (224) 864-9512
Photo of Alaina Murphy, LCPC
Alaina Murphy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Open to seeing clients of all ages and presenting concerns, I specialize in treating mood and anxiety issues in teens and adults. My aim is to practice therapy that works! Therapy that is evidenced-based, goal-driven, and collaborative. I will work with you to identify concerns, create transparent treatment plans, and efficiently move toward healing and growth.
Open to seeing clients of all ages and presenting concerns, I specialize in treating mood and anxiety issues in teens and adults. My aim is to practice therapy that works! Therapy that is evidenced-based, goal-driven, and collaborative. I will work with you to identify concerns, create transparent treatment plans, and efficiently move toward healing and growth.
(847) 232-7315 View (847) 232-7315
Photo of Ilana Harrow - Child And Family Therapy, LSW, PEL
Ilana Harrow - Child And Family Therapy
LSW, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I am here for you! I meet my clients where they are at and work to focus on and build intrinsic strengths towards goal fulfillment and happiness. I am also available to work with you if you are an adult facing challenges with your own life or with your child(ren). I have over fifteen years of experience in school programs including training and experience in school social work and have accumulated many strategies to help my clients explore their feelings, face challenges and work through all types of barriers. I work with you/your child(ren) to find your balance and build confidence to support future development and success.
I am here for you! I meet my clients where they are at and work to focus on and build intrinsic strengths towards goal fulfillment and happiness. I am also available to work with you if you are an adult facing challenges with your own life or with your child(ren). I have over fifteen years of experience in school programs including training and experience in school social work and have accumulated many strategies to help my clients explore their feelings, face challenges and work through all types of barriers. I work with you/your child(ren) to find your balance and build confidence to support future development and success.
(847) 595-4877 View (847) 595-4877
Photo of Julie Noparstak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Noparstak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed clinician and specialize in family work. I am an advocate of intentional parenting practices and support clients to create authentic responses to themselves and others in the here and now so they can heal and move forward from generational trauma. I believe that therapy is about helping clients to create the positive changes that they want so they can live more authentically, identify and work toward achieving their goals, and nurture healthy relationships in order to create meaning and purposeful action in their lives.
I am a trauma informed clinician and specialize in family work. I am an advocate of intentional parenting practices and support clients to create authentic responses to themselves and others in the here and now so they can heal and move forward from generational trauma. I believe that therapy is about helping clients to create the positive changes that they want so they can live more authentically, identify and work toward achieving their goals, and nurture healthy relationships in order to create meaning and purposeful action in their lives.
(224) 252-8465 View (224) 252-8465
Photo of Beth Pettinelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Pettinelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
I have a passion for creating therapeutic spaces for support and growth. My practice experience includes work with adults, children, adolescents, and families who are presently suffering with trauma, grief, relationship issues, divorce, parenting challenges, life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders and a wide array of life circumstances. As a seasoned psychotherapist, I blend compassion, intellectual insights, and current research to address you or your loved ones unique needs and create a space in which empowerment and hope may flourish. I welcome working with diverse clients collaboratively towards their goals.
I have a passion for creating therapeutic spaces for support and growth. My practice experience includes work with adults, children, adolescents, and families who are presently suffering with trauma, grief, relationship issues, divorce, parenting challenges, life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders and a wide array of life circumstances. As a seasoned psychotherapist, I blend compassion, intellectual insights, and current research to address you or your loved ones unique needs and create a space in which empowerment and hope may flourish. I welcome working with diverse clients collaboratively towards their goals.
(847) 512-3443 View (847) 512-3443
Photo of Aryeh Sova, PhD, Psychologist
Aryeh Sova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families involves a collaborative process involving all of the individuals who help a child develop, including relatives, school staff, pediatricians, and other therapists. It also involves creating a positive, upbeat, and energetic setting to foster growth and development. Utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), including mindfulness, my treatment paradigm involves evidence-based practices for a wide range of behavioral and emotional issues. I believe therapy should be proactive and not reactive, and that it must focus on strengths and not just weaknesses.
Working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families involves a collaborative process involving all of the individuals who help a child develop, including relatives, school staff, pediatricians, and other therapists. It also involves creating a positive, upbeat, and energetic setting to foster growth and development. Utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), including mindfulness, my treatment paradigm involves evidence-based practices for a wide range of behavioral and emotional issues. I believe therapy should be proactive and not reactive, and that it must focus on strengths and not just weaknesses.
(847) 558-6152 View (847) 558-6152
Photo of Christina Hoffstrom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Hoffstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.
Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.
(773) 830-3608 View (773) 830-3608
Photo of Matthew William Hefferon, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Matthew William Hefferon
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
When I was a child I had terrible anxiety and a wonderful professional helped me. So now, my passion is helping other children, couples, and families. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist who believes in total mental health care for you, your partnership, and your children. I also have experience with the unique mental health needs of the LGBTQ community. I provide school consultation and advocacy as well. If you, your marriage, or your family is suffering from any number of problems including constant arguing, poor grades, sadness, anxiety, or inattention please consider my services.
When I was a child I had terrible anxiety and a wonderful professional helped me. So now, my passion is helping other children, couples, and families. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist who believes in total mental health care for you, your partnership, and your children. I also have experience with the unique mental health needs of the LGBTQ community. I provide school consultation and advocacy as well. If you, your marriage, or your family is suffering from any number of problems including constant arguing, poor grades, sadness, anxiety, or inattention please consider my services.
(872) 213-7627 View (872) 213-7627
Photo of Ellen Lonnquist, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Lonnquist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Life offers both ordinary and unexpected challenges that may leave you struggling. Using a protective, nurturing and flexible approach, I draw from a range of techniques to support individuals, couples and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss. We will work together to explore beliefs, behaviors and situations that hinder the expression of your true self, using your own strengths to support your growth and development. Every healing journey is unique- and all individuals have their own gifts to access. I am committed to exploring these through an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens.
Life offers both ordinary and unexpected challenges that may leave you struggling. Using a protective, nurturing and flexible approach, I draw from a range of techniques to support individuals, couples and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss. We will work together to explore beliefs, behaviors and situations that hinder the expression of your true self, using your own strengths to support your growth and development. Every healing journey is unique- and all individuals have their own gifts to access. I am committed to exploring these through an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens.
(847) 469-9252 View (847) 469-9252
Photo of Jerry Zabin, LCSW, CDVP, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jerry Zabin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDVP, ACSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076  (Online Only)
In practice for over 40 years, I have a great deal of experience with adolescents, adults and couples. Area of specialization working with perpetrators of and family members impacted by domestic violence. Anxiety and life adjustments are also an area of specialty. Retired as high school social worker, I've worked with hundreds of adolescents and families. It is my belief that emotional energy is finite and that helping you in achieving balance can be so very helpful in finding solutions to emotional distress. Jazz trumpet is my avocation and I work to pass along the lessons I have learned relating to persistence and mindfulness.
In practice for over 40 years, I have a great deal of experience with adolescents, adults and couples. Area of specialization working with perpetrators of and family members impacted by domestic violence. Anxiety and life adjustments are also an area of specialty. Retired as high school social worker, I've worked with hundreds of adolescents and families. It is my belief that emotional energy is finite and that helping you in achieving balance can be so very helpful in finding solutions to emotional distress. Jazz trumpet is my avocation and I work to pass along the lessons I have learned relating to persistence and mindfulness.
(847) 744-8140 View (847) 744-8140
Photo of Michelle Waters, LCPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Waters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
My name is Michelle Waters and I am a licensed counselor (LCPC) and art therapist (ATR). My passion is to help people find their inner power and cultivate the true self through art and talk therapy. I believe that creating art with my clients provides a safe space to discuss issues that might be challenging to talk about otherwise. Therapy is tough, but embedding art in that process takes some of the pressure off and helps develop positive and healthy coping skills. Some of my favorite materials to work with include ceramics, drawing, comics, painting, crochet, and sewing.
My name is Michelle Waters and I am a licensed counselor (LCPC) and art therapist (ATR). My passion is to help people find their inner power and cultivate the true self through art and talk therapy. I believe that creating art with my clients provides a safe space to discuss issues that might be challenging to talk about otherwise. Therapy is tough, but embedding art in that process takes some of the pressure off and helps develop positive and healthy coping skills. Some of my favorite materials to work with include ceramics, drawing, comics, painting, crochet, and sewing.
(224) 332-3101 View (224) 332-3101
1
Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.