Autism Therapists in Winnetka, IL

Photo of Monica Guilhot-Chartrand - SamaraCare, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SamaraCare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
SamaraCare helps clients from diverse backgrounds be happier and healthier, regardless of who they are, where they're from, or what they're facing. Everyone sometimes finds themselves struggling without knowing how to cope, what to do or where to get help. SamaraCare is a non-profit mental health provider offering, counseling, psychiatric and autism services. With over 26 counselors and 7 psychiatrists as well as a psychiatric nurse practitioner we use a variety of client-focused and goal-oriented therapeutic techniques in a broad range of specialty areas.
SamaraCare helps clients from diverse backgrounds be happier and healthier, regardless of who they are, where they're from, or what they're facing. Everyone sometimes finds themselves struggling without knowing how to cope, what to do or where to get help. SamaraCare is a non-profit mental health provider offering, counseling, psychiatric and autism services. With over 26 counselors and 7 psychiatrists as well as a psychiatric nurse practitioner we use a variety of client-focused and goal-oriented therapeutic techniques in a broad range of specialty areas.
(331) 254-4282 View (331) 254-4282
Photo of Marc Pechter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marc Pechter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I believe an open and honest therapeutic relationship is the foundation of success in therapy. I work to provide trusting and consistent relationships with clients to explore feelings and develop coping strategies. With 20+ years of experience and training in several modalities of therapy, I provide a safe environment that is designed to help facilitate healing and change. I feel that therapy is a unique partnership that focuses on your personal goals and objectives. My ability to engage individuals in the change process through talk, play, and art therapies contributes to working out long-term solutions.
I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I believe an open and honest therapeutic relationship is the foundation of success in therapy. I work to provide trusting and consistent relationships with clients to explore feelings and develop coping strategies. With 20+ years of experience and training in several modalities of therapy, I provide a safe environment that is designed to help facilitate healing and change. I feel that therapy is a unique partnership that focuses on your personal goals and objectives. My ability to engage individuals in the change process through talk, play, and art therapies contributes to working out long-term solutions.
(773) 609-6528 View (773) 609-6528
Photo of Mignon Dupepe, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Mignon Dupepe
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Life is filled with sorrow and joy, frustration and wonder, stagnation and growth, obstacles and openings. At times, our skill set and resources are not optimal for helping us adapt to the shifts and movement in our lives. I believe that art therapy and counseling can support understanding of our skills and resources that better equip us to adapt to life's changes. Art therapy allows opportunities to imagine the best, healthiest version of ourselves and permit clarifying moments where we perceive possibility and potential. My goal is to support clients in becoming active agents in developing positive, purposeful ideas towards wellness and good health.
Life is filled with sorrow and joy, frustration and wonder, stagnation and growth, obstacles and openings. At times, our skill set and resources are not optimal for helping us adapt to the shifts and movement in our lives. I believe that art therapy and counseling can support understanding of our skills and resources that better equip us to adapt to life's changes. Art therapy allows opportunities to imagine the best, healthiest version of ourselves and permit clarifying moments where we perceive possibility and potential. My goal is to support clients in becoming active agents in developing positive, purposeful ideas towards wellness and good health.
(847) 558-7947 View (847) 558-7947
Photo of Susan Stern, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
As a most caring and empathetic person and therapist, I am dedicated in helping children, teens, adolescents, young adults and parents to feel better; connected to themselves and to others in a healthy way. I see parents individually. -- All therapy, is a collaborative approach; together with you, I can help you (young or parent), to feel better. When we feel really bad emotionally, depressed, anxious-- it is often parts of our self that we do not know very well. I will help to guide you to illuminate the unconscious parts of yourself and see what is there. I am here for you! The individual sessions have worked well virtually!
As a most caring and empathetic person and therapist, I am dedicated in helping children, teens, adolescents, young adults and parents to feel better; connected to themselves and to others in a healthy way. I see parents individually. -- All therapy, is a collaborative approach; together with you, I can help you (young or parent), to feel better. When we feel really bad emotionally, depressed, anxious-- it is often parts of our self that we do not know very well. I will help to guide you to illuminate the unconscious parts of yourself and see what is there. I am here for you! The individual sessions have worked well virtually!
(847) 693-4066 View (847) 693-4066
Photo of Nicole Patterson, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Patterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Waitlist for new clients
I provide specialized interventions for clients struggling with a variety of challenges including peer relationships, mood, and career changes. My clinical focus is working with individuals with anxiety and ADHD. Through a warm and collaborative approach, I address unique concerns and support you or your child in learning skills to better function in day-to-day life, building peer relationships, gaining confidence, and overcoming challenges.
I provide specialized interventions for clients struggling with a variety of challenges including peer relationships, mood, and career changes. My clinical focus is working with individuals with anxiety and ADHD. Through a warm and collaborative approach, I address unique concerns and support you or your child in learning skills to better function in day-to-day life, building peer relationships, gaining confidence, and overcoming challenges.
(224) 808-3368 View (224) 808-3368
Photo of Doug Hansen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doug Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
I work with adult individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed by the pressures of life and unsure how to navigate the complexities of personal, relational, and professional challenges. I help my clients discover what matters most to them and build the courage, communication skills, and compassion to live in alignment with those things.
I work with adult individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed by the pressures of life and unsure how to navigate the complexities of personal, relational, and professional challenges. I help my clients discover what matters most to them and build the courage, communication skills, and compassion to live in alignment with those things.
(312) 872-8918 View (312) 872-8918
Photo of Tara Ouillette, MA, LCPC
Tara Ouillette
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that long- lasting, meaningful growth thrives in self-compassion, honoring shame, and creating purpose. Inherited and experienced trauma can remain in the body and inform our choices, so one of my goals is to offer a guiding hand in disentangling negative core beliefs from the body and sense of self. My therapeutic practice is filtered through a strengths-based and feminist lens, and as a queer therapist, I aim to foster an LGBTQIA+ affirming space, challenge racist systems, encourage body empowerment at every size, and promote sex-positivity.
I believe that long- lasting, meaningful growth thrives in self-compassion, honoring shame, and creating purpose. Inherited and experienced trauma can remain in the body and inform our choices, so one of my goals is to offer a guiding hand in disentangling negative core beliefs from the body and sense of self. My therapeutic practice is filtered through a strengths-based and feminist lens, and as a queer therapist, I aim to foster an LGBTQIA+ affirming space, challenge racist systems, encourage body empowerment at every size, and promote sex-positivity.
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Photo of Dr. Nirmeen Rajani, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nirmeen Rajani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
Do you want a safe, nurturing, and empathetic space where you can share your fears and painful life circumstances? Do you want to learn concrete coping skills to work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and embark on a path of improved quality of life? I have extensive experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief counseling, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, pediatric concerns and maternal depression. I also enjoy working with couples who are experiencing conflicts in their marriage and are determined to bring positive changes in their life.
Do you want a safe, nurturing, and empathetic space where you can share your fears and painful life circumstances? Do you want to learn concrete coping skills to work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and embark on a path of improved quality of life? I have extensive experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief counseling, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, pediatric concerns and maternal depression. I also enjoy working with couples who are experiencing conflicts in their marriage and are determined to bring positive changes in their life.
(708) 847-0361 View (708) 847-0361
Photo of Max Parrella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Max Parrella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Max specializes in helping Gen Z and Gen Alpha clients build resilience to overcome stress and anxiety. Max takes a personalized, comprehensive approach to your wellness, helping you make profound progress towards your goals. You may be surprised at how quickly you’ll notice positive changes in your life when working with Max.
Max specializes in helping Gen Z and Gen Alpha clients build resilience to overcome stress and anxiety. Max takes a personalized, comprehensive approach to your wellness, helping you make profound progress towards your goals. You may be surprised at how quickly you’ll notice positive changes in your life when working with Max.
(224) 442-9765 View (224) 442-9765
Photo of Wendy Joy Cohen, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Wendy Joy Cohen
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
No client is an island but a connected member of a family, so I practice therapy with individuals, couples, and families. My style is practical, focusing on solutions. I am creative and evaluate each client’s unique needs in therapy. I often use hands-on therapy, such as making art or playing, to help with self expression. Parenting does not come with instructions. It is mysterious. The smallest successes can produce a profound sense of accomplishment. Helping you find their way through counseling and walking along side of you through that journey is part of my mission. I provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy for those who qualify.
No client is an island but a connected member of a family, so I practice therapy with individuals, couples, and families. My style is practical, focusing on solutions. I am creative and evaluate each client’s unique needs in therapy. I often use hands-on therapy, such as making art or playing, to help with self expression. Parenting does not come with instructions. It is mysterious. The smallest successes can produce a profound sense of accomplishment. Helping you find their way through counseling and walking along side of you through that journey is part of my mission. I provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy for those who qualify.
(847) 925-7368 View (847) 925-7368
Photo of Jacqueline Cesaroni Duke - Jacqueline Duke, PsyD, LLC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Jacqueline Duke, PsyD, LLC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about providing quality mental health care and a highly personalized experience. I enjoy building long-term, professional relationships with my clients, and to serve as an available resource throughout life's many expected and unexpected transitions. I hope that our therapy can not only reduce your immediate feelings of distress, but also proactively strengthen a foundation for the future. As do your presenting concerns, my work as your doctor goes beyond the time we spend together in the office.
I am passionate about providing quality mental health care and a highly personalized experience. I enjoy building long-term, professional relationships with my clients, and to serve as an available resource throughout life's many expected and unexpected transitions. I hope that our therapy can not only reduce your immediate feelings of distress, but also proactively strengthen a foundation for the future. As do your presenting concerns, my work as your doctor goes beyond the time we spend together in the office.
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Photo of Genevieve Wolff, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Genevieve Wolff
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
Not accepting new clients
I believe that therapy is about the process of exploring the questions of being human - what makes us connected or disconnected to ourselves and others, and how we can live in a way that is authentic and meaningful. I hope to provide a supportive and challenging space for clients who are seeking to understand the issues that are holding them back from living their fullest lives. I am direct and active in session, while allowing people the space to develop their own insights.
I believe that therapy is about the process of exploring the questions of being human - what makes us connected or disconnected to ourselves and others, and how we can live in a way that is authentic and meaningful. I hope to provide a supportive and challenging space for clients who are seeking to understand the issues that are holding them back from living their fullest lives. I am direct and active in session, while allowing people the space to develop their own insights.
(224) 204-0856 View (224) 204-0856

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lorra Rudman, MA, NCC, LPC, ACRE, Counselor
Lorra Rudman
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, ACRE
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I have significant experience working with people across the Autism Spectrum as well their parents and families.
Pursuing self knowledge takes courage. Sometimes it isn’t possible to do on one’s own. Doing so, however, leads to self- acceptance and clarity about the choices one can make to live the best life they can. Developing insight into your emotions, past experiences, and recognizing the you have choices empower you to feel more in-control of your life, capitalize on your strengths find the direction you want to take, to eventually discover and become who you want to be, as a parent, a partner, a friend, an employee, as your SELF. Every person deserves not just to survive, but to THRIVE,
I have significant experience working with people across the Autism Spectrum as well their parents and families.
Pursuing self knowledge takes courage. Sometimes it isn’t possible to do on one’s own. Doing so, however, leads to self- acceptance and clarity about the choices one can make to live the best life they can. Developing insight into your emotions, past experiences, and recognizing the you have choices empower you to feel more in-control of your life, capitalize on your strengths find the direction you want to take, to eventually discover and become who you want to be, as a parent, a partner, a friend, an employee, as your SELF. Every person deserves not just to survive, but to THRIVE,
(847) 242-8669 View (847) 242-8669
Photo of Dr. Taylor Day, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Taylor Day
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenilworth, IL 60043  (Online Only)
Although my primary specialty is in early child development and autism, I am also uniquely positioned to treat child anxiety and emotion regulation difficulties.
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism. I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
Although my primary specialty is in early child development and autism, I am also uniquely positioned to treat child anxiety and emotion regulation difficulties.
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism. I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
(412) 837-0965 View (412) 837-0965
Photo of Genevieve Thornton, PSY D, Psychologist
Genevieve Thornton
Psychologist, PSY D
Verified Verified
Glencoe, IL 60022
I conduct diagnostic evaluations for autism.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who wants to create a whole life for the people I serve – those with autism spectrum disorders. I have been working with children and adolescents for nearly 20 years, and I am dedicated to helping patients become interested, engaged members of their communities. My program is called SociAbility, and it is a structured group therapy program to help children, teens and young adults who have social cognitive challenges. Most recently, I have added a focus on adults who struggle finding and keeping jobs.
I conduct diagnostic evaluations for autism.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who wants to create a whole life for the people I serve – those with autism spectrum disorders. I have been working with children and adolescents for nearly 20 years, and I am dedicated to helping patients become interested, engaged members of their communities. My program is called SociAbility, and it is a structured group therapy program to help children, teens and young adults who have social cognitive challenges. Most recently, I have added a focus on adults who struggle finding and keeping jobs.
(224) 808-3447 View (224) 808-3447
Photo of Allegra Socki, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allegra Socki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Kenilworth, IL 60043
My specialties include neurodivergency (ADHD/ Autism), twins (I'm a twin myself! I don't see twins together, but understand the nuances of being a twin), stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+, and life transitions.
Georgia O'Keefe once said "I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for." Art therapy offers a fresh way to view challenges and explore solutions. Our therapy sessions will encourage you to see things from different angles, creating a deeper understanding of yourself and your mental health journey. As a neurodivergent practitioner, I can offer a safe space for you to unmask and give you tools to navigate challenges and embrace your strengths. Feel free to reach out today and we can set up a free consultation!
My specialties include neurodivergency (ADHD/ Autism), twins (I'm a twin myself! I don't see twins together, but understand the nuances of being a twin), stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+, and life transitions.
Georgia O'Keefe once said "I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for." Art therapy offers a fresh way to view challenges and explore solutions. Our therapy sessions will encourage you to see things from different angles, creating a deeper understanding of yourself and your mental health journey. As a neurodivergent practitioner, I can offer a safe space for you to unmask and give you tools to navigate challenges and embrace your strengths. Feel free to reach out today and we can set up a free consultation!
(872) 808-7927 View (872) 808-7927
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 Shayna Duval, MA, CAGS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shayna Duval
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CAGS
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I primarily work with children and teens struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and autism. I utilize a range of therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (CBT/ERP), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Art and Play therapy, and Person-Centered therapy. If working with a child/adolescent, I believe in bridging the therapy space to the home, and will closely collaborate with caregivers to enhance therapeutic progress.
I primarily work with children and teens struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and autism. I utilize a range of therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (CBT/ERP), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Art and Play therapy, and Person-Centered therapy. If working with a child/adolescent, I believe in bridging the therapy space to the home, and will closely collaborate with caregivers to enhance therapeutic progress.
(224) 427-6277 View (224) 427-6277
Suzanne Carey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in working with children and all types of families dealing with developmental issues (including autism), behavioral problems, social skill deficits, loss, attachment, parenting and marital issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My goal is to create an atmosphere that is open and nurturing to everyone. I believe that by looking honestly at where we are, everyone has the potential for positive change, regardless of where we find ourselves. I use an eclectic approach in therapy and personalize interaction with each client.
I specialize in working with children and all types of families dealing with developmental issues (including autism), behavioral problems, social skill deficits, loss, attachment, parenting and marital issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My goal is to create an atmosphere that is open and nurturing to everyone. I believe that by looking honestly at where we are, everyone has the potential for positive change, regardless of where we find ourselves. I use an eclectic approach in therapy and personalize interaction with each client.
(708) 945-6359 View (708) 945-6359
Photo of Elizabeth Salmo, LCPC, Counselor
Elizabeth Salmo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glenview, IL 60025
Hi! I'm Beth Salmo, licensed in MO, IL, and FL as a professional counselor. My work is focused on helping people who are struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and moral injury. I've also helped clients with personality disorders and who are on the autism spectrum. I have many years of experience helping people with mood and anxiety disorders; those who are neurodivergent; and relational issues to include members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I approach therapy from a CBT and Reality-Choice lens and often infuse therapeutic humor into my sessions.
Hi! I'm Beth Salmo, licensed in MO, IL, and FL as a professional counselor. My work is focused on helping people who are struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and moral injury. I've also helped clients with personality disorders and who are on the autism spectrum. I have many years of experience helping people with mood and anxiety disorders; those who are neurodivergent; and relational issues to include members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I approach therapy from a CBT and Reality-Choice lens and often infuse therapeutic humor into my sessions.
(309) 598-1738 View (309) 598-1738
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.