Autism Therapists in Bloomington, MN
I have worked in mental health and human services in the Twin Cities since 2003 in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, school and community based settings. I am passionate about working with children and their caregivers using a strength and relationship-based approach. I am experienced in treating mental health symptoms related to neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), trauma, attachment problems and relationship conflicts. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
I have worked in mental health and human services in the Twin Cities since 2003 in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, school and community based settings. I am passionate about working with children and their caregivers using a strength and relationship-based approach. I am experienced in treating mental health symptoms related to neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), trauma, attachment problems and relationship conflicts. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
Erin Beecher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55425
Specializing in autism, anxiety, and child development, I offer a balanced approach with play therapy for ages 2+ and focused parent sessions.
Do you have concerns about your child’s developmental needs or differences? Are you feeling overwhelmed about how to best support your child, or unsure about where to start? If this describes you, know that you’re not alone. I will work collaboratively with you and your child to navigate the challenges of daily life, relationships, and parenting toward a more harmonious future.
Specializing in autism, anxiety, and child development, I offer a balanced approach with play therapy for ages 2+ and focused parent sessions.
Do you have concerns about your child’s developmental needs or differences? Are you feeling overwhelmed about how to best support your child, or unsure about where to start? If this describes you, know that you’re not alone. I will work collaboratively with you and your child to navigate the challenges of daily life, relationships, and parenting toward a more harmonious future.
Safiya Ali Mohamed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55437
Safiya is specializing in Applied Behavioral Analysis and has a passion for working with individuals diagnosed with Autism and their families.
Safiya is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). She has been working in the mental health field for the past nine years. While she strives to be a well- rounded generalist, Safiya has specific interests in working with marginalized, under-represented and underserved communities with a focus on trauma-based issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self- development, developmental delay and Autism.
Safiya is specializing in Applied Behavioral Analysis and has a passion for working with individuals diagnosed with Autism and their families.
Safiya is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). She has been working in the mental health field for the past nine years. While she strives to be a well- rounded generalist, Safiya has specific interests in working with marginalized, under-represented and underserved communities with a focus on trauma-based issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self- development, developmental delay and Autism.
Kim Busse
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55420
I work with clients of all ages who want to make a positive change in their lives. My primary focus is helping individuals and families who are experiencing the challenges of Autism/Asperger's. Many of my clients also seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD and other neurological disorders. The goal of counseling is intended to have the client feeling better than before they started.
I work with clients of all ages who want to make a positive change in their lives. My primary focus is helping individuals and families who are experiencing the challenges of Autism/Asperger's. Many of my clients also seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD and other neurological disorders. The goal of counseling is intended to have the client feeling better than before they started.
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
Stephanie Ann Palazzola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
I have specific training in applied behavioral analysis (ABA) methods for treating children with autism and have participated in the state of Minnesota's evidence based practices for treating those with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns.
My goal is to support clients to improve their quality of daily life and I am committed to supporting them achieve better outcomes for themselves. I work with clients and their families to learn healthy strategies for managing anxiety and depression that may be debilitating or preventing them from doing things they once loved and enjoy doing.
I have specific training in applied behavioral analysis (ABA) methods for treating children with autism and have participated in the state of Minnesota's evidence based practices for treating those with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns.
My goal is to support clients to improve their quality of daily life and I am committed to supporting them achieve better outcomes for themselves. I work with clients and their families to learn healthy strategies for managing anxiety and depression that may be debilitating or preventing them from doing things they once loved and enjoy doing.
Jacob Schuchman Falk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
Waitlist for new clients
I work best with people who are highly motivated for personal growth and self discovery even if it is painful at times. I have a non-judgmental and empathic engagement style - placing emphasis on the therapeutic relationship itself. Most of my clients are looking to gain deeper insight into themselves, recognizing and changing internal thought and behavioral patterns, discovering the true depths of their feelings, and create new tools or skills to cope with speed and stress of modern day life. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, transitions, shame, relational dynamics, Autism, and identity. Email is best way to reach me.
I work best with people who are highly motivated for personal growth and self discovery even if it is painful at times. I have a non-judgmental and empathic engagement style - placing emphasis on the therapeutic relationship itself. Most of my clients are looking to gain deeper insight into themselves, recognizing and changing internal thought and behavioral patterns, discovering the true depths of their feelings, and create new tools or skills to cope with speed and stress of modern day life. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, transitions, shame, relational dynamics, Autism, and identity. Email is best way to reach me.
I've been working with children since 1991, mostly at the elementary and preschool age level. In the 90's I developed a passion for play therapy and began my own training and experience. Twenty years later I have my ideal space at Cashman Center where I provide play therapy every day, addressing everything from anxiety to trauma to attachment, teaching new skills including assertiveness, self-advocacy, and emotional independence, and consulting with families. With over twenty years of experience doing assessments in the schools, I continue to do assessments for learning styles, behavior and mood dysregulation, autism, and ADHD.
I've been working with children since 1991, mostly at the elementary and preschool age level. In the 90's I developed a passion for play therapy and began my own training and experience. Twenty years later I have my ideal space at Cashman Center where I provide play therapy every day, addressing everything from anxiety to trauma to attachment, teaching new skills including assertiveness, self-advocacy, and emotional independence, and consulting with families. With over twenty years of experience doing assessments in the schools, I continue to do assessments for learning styles, behavior and mood dysregulation, autism, and ADHD.
I would like to work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, stress, and coping skills. I also have experience working with and would like to continue to work with clients who are neurodivergent. I am a motivated, organized, goal-setter and would like to work with clients who want to be motivated to achieve their goals and would like to experience sessions in a non-judgment space. We are in this together, and I would like to be here for your journey or the new chapter in your life.
I would like to work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, stress, and coping skills. I also have experience working with and would like to continue to work with clients who are neurodivergent. I am a motivated, organized, goal-setter and would like to work with clients who want to be motivated to achieve their goals and would like to experience sessions in a non-judgment space. We are in this together, and I would like to be here for your journey or the new chapter in your life.
Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
I believe a huge part of what makes therapy work is the relationship between the client and the therapist. As a result I primarily practice from a psychodynamic perspective and am very passionate about clients feeling seen and heard in the therapy space.
I believe a huge part of what makes therapy work is the relationship between the client and the therapist. As a result I primarily practice from a psychodynamic perspective and am very passionate about clients feeling seen and heard in the therapy space.
15 Second Videos
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Bloomington
Mel Day
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Roseville
People are unique human beings with a long list of remarkable qualities. Sometimes though, we feel that we have qualities that we need to work on to be our better selves. I work with individuals to find those qualities and strengthen the ones we want to stay around. You may be a good fit for me if you: have ADHD, have children, are a family with adult children in the home, are a lifelong learner, are tired of looking at the positive side all the time, and willing to work on your problems in and out of therapy!
People are unique human beings with a long list of remarkable qualities. Sometimes though, we feel that we have qualities that we need to work on to be our better selves. I work with individuals to find those qualities and strengthen the ones we want to stay around. You may be a good fit for me if you: have ADHD, have children, are a family with adult children in the home, are a lifelong learner, are tired of looking at the positive side all the time, and willing to work on your problems in and out of therapy!
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Bloomington understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Bloomington understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Dr. Iesha McLeod is a licensed Psychologist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2012. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology at Saint Xavier University and her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology at Albizu University. Dr. McLeod is passionate about helping people improve their emotional concerns as well as improving their overall mindset, so that they can understand their limitless life possibilities. Her goal is to guide individuals into a greater awareness and deeper healing, so that they can make the best decisions for themselves. Dr.
Dr. Iesha McLeod is a licensed Psychologist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2012. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology at Saint Xavier University and her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology at Albizu University. Dr. McLeod is passionate about helping people improve their emotional concerns as well as improving their overall mindset, so that they can understand their limitless life possibilities. Her goal is to guide individuals into a greater awareness and deeper healing, so that they can make the best decisions for themselves. Dr.
“You were given this Life because you are strong enough to live it”. My personal journey of Adoption has fueled my passion to provide unconditional and authentic support for families and individuals with warmth & compassion. Since 2007 I’ve been working in the mental health field in a variety of roles which have enriched my clinical practice. I have been incredibly inspired by working with adolescent and young adults navigate the challenges of childhood & current life circumstances.
“You were given this Life because you are strong enough to live it”. My personal journey of Adoption has fueled my passion to provide unconditional and authentic support for families and individuals with warmth & compassion. Since 2007 I’ve been working in the mental health field in a variety of roles which have enriched my clinical practice. I have been incredibly inspired by working with adolescent and young adults navigate the challenges of childhood & current life circumstances.
If you are here, it is likely that something in your life isn’t serving you well, shattered your plans and expectations, left you wondering how to navigate next steps, or all of the above. Medical crises and treatments can leave trauma and pain in their path for both a patient and those closest to them. Medical treatment can be necessary and beneficial to someone’s health while also being traumatic and painful. You are justified in feeling a complex mix of gratitude and grief about your experiences. You want better for yourself and that is a solid foundation for progress. You deserve to find joy in life, whatever it has thrown at yo
If you are here, it is likely that something in your life isn’t serving you well, shattered your plans and expectations, left you wondering how to navigate next steps, or all of the above. Medical crises and treatments can leave trauma and pain in their path for both a patient and those closest to them. Medical treatment can be necessary and beneficial to someone’s health while also being traumatic and painful. You are justified in feeling a complex mix of gratitude and grief about your experiences. You want better for yourself and that is a solid foundation for progress. You deserve to find joy in life, whatever it has thrown at yo
Tired of Educating Your Therapist on Your Gender and Sexuality? Do you feel like you've been trained to hide parts of yourself and conform to societal expectations? Have you lost sight of what you truly want after pleasing others for so long? Therapy should be a place to embrace and affirm your authenticity, not educate or conform to your therapist. If you're neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with challenges related to your gender and sexual identities, I provide a safe, affirming space for you to process your emotions and gain insights into your true self.
Tired of Educating Your Therapist on Your Gender and Sexuality? Do you feel like you've been trained to hide parts of yourself and conform to societal expectations? Have you lost sight of what you truly want after pleasing others for so long? Therapy should be a place to embrace and affirm your authenticity, not educate or conform to your therapist. If you're neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with challenges related to your gender and sexual identities, I provide a safe, affirming space for you to process your emotions and gain insights into your true self.
Some the coping mechanisms that I use deep breathing exercise to bring about calm taking time to breath what the need for calm. Explore your goals or aspirations you'd like to accomplish on life's journey.
Some the coping mechanisms that I use deep breathing exercise to bring about calm taking time to breath what the need for calm. Explore your goals or aspirations you'd like to accomplish on life's journey.
Congratulations on getting this far on your journey. I am going to entertain the idea that you are interested in changing aspects of yourself or your life so that you can move towards a personal goal, life satisfaction or general happiness. You have a child or teen you are worried about. We will work as a team and not keep anyone in therapy any longer than is necessary for the goal(s) to be realized. Please be advised that I expect challenging questions and hard work AND want you to want the same.
Congratulations on getting this far on your journey. I am going to entertain the idea that you are interested in changing aspects of yourself or your life so that you can move towards a personal goal, life satisfaction or general happiness. You have a child or teen you are worried about. We will work as a team and not keep anyone in therapy any longer than is necessary for the goal(s) to be realized. Please be advised that I expect challenging questions and hard work AND want you to want the same.
Elisa Sarmento
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431 (Online Only)
Starting now, you can begin a brand new journey toward a more positive path for yourself – one that’s filled with growth, well being, acceptance, and empowerment.
Starting now, you can begin a brand new journey toward a more positive path for yourself – one that’s filled with growth, well being, acceptance, and empowerment.
See more therapy options for Bloomington
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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.