Autism Therapists in Burnsville, MN

Photo of Carrie K. Wolfson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie K. Wolfson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Waitlist for new clients
Working with children/youth who have social and emotional deficits is my passion. As a systems therapist I am committed to assisting each child/youth while also working with the family to handle difficulties that come with having a child with unique needs. My clients may have autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood/impulse control concerns which cause behavioral and relationship difficulties. Treatment plans are based on concepts of "Social Thinking" as well as behavioral and play-based interventions, CBT and Family Therapy approaches to maximize the learning and retention of skills across multiple settings.
Working with children/youth who have social and emotional deficits is my passion. As a systems therapist I am committed to assisting each child/youth while also working with the family to handle difficulties that come with having a child with unique needs. My clients may have autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood/impulse control concerns which cause behavioral and relationship difficulties. Treatment plans are based on concepts of "Social Thinking" as well as behavioral and play-based interventions, CBT and Family Therapy approaches to maximize the learning and retention of skills across multiple settings.
(612) 326-3882 View (612) 326-3882
Photo of Amy Meyer, LPCC, Counselor
Amy Meyer
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306
My areas of interest include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, early development, anger, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, parent guidance and self-esteem issues.
I am passionate about working with children and families to help them find emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation the growth and progress. I have substantial experience working with children 12 y.o. and under. Being a kid (or parent) is not easy, especially right now. I would love to support you and your child in whatever manner is needed. I enjoy teaching kids about emotions and calming strategies, helping process stressful or traumatic experiences, teaching social-emotional awareness, and providing guidance to parents.
My areas of interest include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, early development, anger, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, parent guidance and self-esteem issues.
I am passionate about working with children and families to help them find emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation the growth and progress. I have substantial experience working with children 12 y.o. and under. Being a kid (or parent) is not easy, especially right now. I would love to support you and your child in whatever manner is needed. I enjoy teaching kids about emotions and calming strategies, helping process stressful or traumatic experiences, teaching social-emotional awareness, and providing guidance to parents.
(952) 295-3418 View (952) 295-3418
Photo of Kim Busse, MEd, MA, LPCC
Kim Busse
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
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.
(612) 255-6731 View (612) 255-6731
Photo of Tandra M. Jefferson, MA , LAMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tandra M. Jefferson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA , LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
My experiences include presenting concerns related to autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, identity, and relational conflict.
Tandra Jefferson uses her gifts to bring a holistic approach to therapy and believes we are all born with an innate ability to form healthy relationships. Tandra believes in the power of healing through love and connections within the community. She draws from experiential, Internal Family Systems, Trauma informed and Play Therapy techniques in her work. She embraces a balance between addressing immediate concerns, and promoting empowerment, confidence and lifelong wellness. Tandra approaches therapy from a culturally responsive lens and believes in honoring cultural diversity & social justice.
My experiences include presenting concerns related to autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, identity, and relational conflict.
Tandra Jefferson uses her gifts to bring a holistic approach to therapy and believes we are all born with an innate ability to form healthy relationships. Tandra believes in the power of healing through love and connections within the community. She draws from experiential, Internal Family Systems, Trauma informed and Play Therapy techniques in her work. She embraces a balance between addressing immediate concerns, and promoting empowerment, confidence and lifelong wellness. Tandra approaches therapy from a culturally responsive lens and believes in honoring cultural diversity & social justice.
(612) 712-7911 View (612) 712-7911
Photo of Jim Anderson, MS, LP, Psychologist
Jim Anderson
Psychologist, MS, LP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
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.
(952) 260-0311 View (952) 260-0311
Photo of Jacob Gerend, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jacob Gerend
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
My style of therapy is geared towards helping individuals discover their own inner strength and direction. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and goals will be individualized based on their own needs. Every individual has a different perspective and I encourage these differences throughout the therapeutic process. Childhood experiences play a major role in development even as an adult and can frame the way we view the world. The client is meant to play an active role in their therapy and my relationships with every individual will be built on trust, authenticity and transparency.
My style of therapy is geared towards helping individuals discover their own inner strength and direction. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and goals will be individualized based on their own needs. Every individual has a different perspective and I encourage these differences throughout the therapeutic process. Childhood experiences play a major role in development even as an adult and can frame the way we view the world. The client is meant to play an active role in their therapy and my relationships with every individual will be built on trust, authenticity and transparency.
(651) 800-9106 View (651) 800-9106
Photo of Megan Kelly, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
It is truly my joy and privilege to walk alongside individuals, couples, and families on their journey towards hope and healing. People consider therapy for many reasons and every reason is significant. Life can be difficult and suffering is inevitable at times. Relationships can also be challenging and people often desire more positive connection and understanding in relationship with those they love. I work with individuals, including children (age 7+), couples, and families to address these issues. My caseload primarily includes clients experiencing anxiety, depression, attachment difficulties, and marital and family conflict.
It is truly my joy and privilege to walk alongside individuals, couples, and families on their journey towards hope and healing. People consider therapy for many reasons and every reason is significant. Life can be difficult and suffering is inevitable at times. Relationships can also be challenging and people often desire more positive connection and understanding in relationship with those they love. I work with individuals, including children (age 7+), couples, and families to address these issues. My caseload primarily includes clients experiencing anxiety, depression, attachment difficulties, and marital and family conflict.
(952) 522-3160 View (952) 522-3160
Photo of David R Bradshaw - Healing Connections Therapy Center, MSEd, LP, Psychologist
Healing Connections Therapy Center
Psychologist, MSEd, LP
Not Verified Not Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306
We are a multi-disciplinary team offering medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, and group therapy to provide you with comprehensive care for treatment of many mental health issues. Our groups and individual therapy have proven to change destructive behaviors, improve ability to manage mood, and enhance stress management skills. Our goal is to be of support by helping individuals develop and strengthen skills that promote well-being and success in daily living. We look forward to working with you.
We are a multi-disciplinary team offering medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, and group therapy to provide you with comprehensive care for treatment of many mental health issues. Our groups and individual therapy have proven to change destructive behaviors, improve ability to manage mood, and enhance stress management skills. Our goal is to be of support by helping individuals develop and strengthen skills that promote well-being and success in daily living. We look forward to working with you.
(952) 479-5976 View (952) 479-5976
Photo of Rachel Nester, MS, LPCC, NCC, RPT, IMH-E®
Rachel Nester
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC, RPT, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Hi! My name is Rachel and I'm the owner of Nesting Connections, LLC. My ideal client would be children between the ages of birth to 18, caregivers, or teachers seeking reflective consultation. Reasons caregivers have requested my services include: anxiety, depression, hoarding, excessive lying, attachment concerns, selective mutism, defiance, suicidal ideation, self-harming, bullying, social skills, foster care/adoption, truancy, grief, family discord, developmental concerns, and most frequently-trauma. I also enjoy providing prenatal therapy to process bonding with baby.
Hi! My name is Rachel and I'm the owner of Nesting Connections, LLC. My ideal client would be children between the ages of birth to 18, caregivers, or teachers seeking reflective consultation. Reasons caregivers have requested my services include: anxiety, depression, hoarding, excessive lying, attachment concerns, selective mutism, defiance, suicidal ideation, self-harming, bullying, social skills, foster care/adoption, truancy, grief, family discord, developmental concerns, and most frequently-trauma. I also enjoy providing prenatal therapy to process bonding with baby.
(952) 260-3195 View (952) 260-3195
Photo of Robert L Lopno II - Robert Lopno and Associates, MS Ed, LP, Psychologist
Robert Lopno and Associates
Psychologist, MS Ed, LP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
You will have your concerns and needs readily understood and acknowledged throughout our important time together professionally. You may feel at a loss in your search for help and will find a kind, passionate, and respectful therapist here. Often "blind spots" stem from a long pattern of fear/avoidance of your authentic feelings, thoughts, and needs to grow fully into the person of whom you are intended. Together we will co-create a lifestyle and clear perspective more free from burdens.
You will have your concerns and needs readily understood and acknowledged throughout our important time together professionally. You may feel at a loss in your search for help and will find a kind, passionate, and respectful therapist here. Often "blind spots" stem from a long pattern of fear/avoidance of your authentic feelings, thoughts, and needs to grow fully into the person of whom you are intended. Together we will co-create a lifestyle and clear perspective more free from burdens.
(612) 688-5026 View (612) 688-5026
Photo of Jessica DuPay Ellison, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jessica DuPay Ellison
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
We all possess the strength and ability to learn what motivates us and what holds us back. Together I'd like to create a plan to aid in reducing the pain and suffering with whatever struggles you have in life and learn new ways to find happiness and inner-peace. My passion for guiding youth has always been at the forefront of my practice. It can be difficult as a parent or guardian and see your child struggle with depression, anxiety, anger or self-esteem. I want to support your child in a way to become a happy healthy adult.
We all possess the strength and ability to learn what motivates us and what holds us back. Together I'd like to create a plan to aid in reducing the pain and suffering with whatever struggles you have in life and learn new ways to find happiness and inner-peace. My passion for guiding youth has always been at the forefront of my practice. It can be difficult as a parent or guardian and see your child struggle with depression, anxiety, anger or self-esteem. I want to support your child in a way to become a happy healthy adult.
(612) 326-9655 View (612) 326-9655
Photo of Tina Coatta, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Coatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Feeling stuck? I specialize in working with teens and young adults. You've noticed you've been overthinking and struggling to get things done. You've been dealing with a lot of stress and having trouble finding enjoyment in life. It’s been hard to get along with people around you. You're feeling unsure about life goals and what’s next. You have experienced trauma and it’s impacting current relationships. You're feeling ready to take the next step and move forward.
Feeling stuck? I specialize in working with teens and young adults. You've noticed you've been overthinking and struggling to get things done. You've been dealing with a lot of stress and having trouble finding enjoyment in life. It’s been hard to get along with people around you. You're feeling unsure about life goals and what’s next. You have experienced trauma and it’s impacting current relationships. You're feeling ready to take the next step and move forward.
(952) 230-0617 View (952) 230-0617
Photo of Jennifer Mason, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Mason
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Waitlist for new clients
Helping people who feel stuck get unstuck is my passion. Finding balance and addressing feeling disconnected or overwhelmed. Offering enthusiastic support and new perspectives on the underlying reasons a person or couple is struggling and then how to make real change. We will build awareness and incorporate new skills to address whatever feels hard right now. And working towards being more content. Often, this includes helping people learn how to better identify and communicate their needs and hopes and desires.
Helping people who feel stuck get unstuck is my passion. Finding balance and addressing feeling disconnected or overwhelmed. Offering enthusiastic support and new perspectives on the underlying reasons a person or couple is struggling and then how to make real change. We will build awareness and incorporate new skills to address whatever feels hard right now. And working towards being more content. Often, this includes helping people learn how to better identify and communicate their needs and hopes and desires.
(952) 900-7581 View (952) 900-7581
Photo of Matthew Sutera, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Sutera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
My background includes working with individuals suffering from PTSD and other trauma-related disorders, as well as chemically dependent populations. With that being said, I am willing to work alongside anyone looking for a support or to make a change in their life. I have more clinical experience working with adolescent individuals and adult males, but am open to working with a more diverse range of ages, genders, and background
My background includes working with individuals suffering from PTSD and other trauma-related disorders, as well as chemically dependent populations. With that being said, I am willing to work alongside anyone looking for a support or to make a change in their life. I have more clinical experience working with adolescent individuals and adult males, but am open to working with a more diverse range of ages, genders, and background
(612) 284-0722 View (612) 284-0722
Photo of Alexander Carlson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm Alex a clinical social worker and mental health rehabilitation provider since 2007. I'm a firm believer in balancing the books and my years of practice-based evidence to meet you where you're at. I would be a great therapist for you if you desire accountability, direct/assertive communication, constructive criticism of behavior/thought patterns. If you are a frequent late cancel/no show'er, fly by the seat of your pants, TLDR/didn't check texts/can't find it in my email or are uncomfortable using technology, this caveat will be Exhibit A when we discuss termination of services.
Hello and welcome! I'm Alex a clinical social worker and mental health rehabilitation provider since 2007. I'm a firm believer in balancing the books and my years of practice-based evidence to meet you where you're at. I would be a great therapist for you if you desire accountability, direct/assertive communication, constructive criticism of behavior/thought patterns. If you are a frequent late cancel/no show'er, fly by the seat of your pants, TLDR/didn't check texts/can't find it in my email or are uncomfortable using technology, this caveat will be Exhibit A when we discuss termination of services.
(952) 522-3639 View (952) 522-3639
Photo of Kotatee Tamba, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kotatee Tamba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with individuals, groups, and families. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan from age six to later adulthood. My therapeutic approach incorporates principles of client-centered, strengths-based, solution-focused, narrative and cognitive-behavioral therapy along with trauma informed care. I work with clients utilizes an individualized treatment approach because no two people are alike and each person's therapeutic journey is a unique experience. Although these are my approaches to therapy, I believes it is imperative to support clients the way they want to be supported and give them the opportunity to live life more meaningfully.
I have experience working with individuals, groups, and families. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan from age six to later adulthood. My therapeutic approach incorporates principles of client-centered, strengths-based, solution-focused, narrative and cognitive-behavioral therapy along with trauma informed care. I work with clients utilizes an individualized treatment approach because no two people are alike and each person's therapeutic journey is a unique experience. Although these are my approaches to therapy, I believes it is imperative to support clients the way they want to be supported and give them the opportunity to live life more meaningfully.
(952) 260-9460 View (952) 260-9460
Photo of Evan Lieberman, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evan Lieberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306  (Online Only)
If you are here reading this, you want something better for yourself. We are complex individuals, and when you gain a better understanding of who you truly are, you will be amazed at how life takes on a new perspective. To be more productive in your work, having healthier and deeper relationships, and to be more comfortable with yourself, are among the many benefits of therapy. I believe in the power of therapy and having greater personal insight. I have seen it work for my clients and myself. If you ready to take this first step, let's talk!
If you are here reading this, you want something better for yourself. We are complex individuals, and when you gain a better understanding of who you truly are, you will be amazed at how life takes on a new perspective. To be more productive in your work, having healthier and deeper relationships, and to be more comfortable with yourself, are among the many benefits of therapy. I believe in the power of therapy and having greater personal insight. I have seen it work for my clients and myself. If you ready to take this first step, let's talk!
(651) 401-6677 View (651) 401-6677
Photo of Lisa S. Squire - Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
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.
(952) 373-0446 View (952) 373-0446
Photo of Rylee A Rae, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Rylee A Rae
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I currently work with individuals, partners, and families. My area of passion and expertise is gender and sexuality. I also view therapy and self-care as an act of resistance and believe it can help individuals with marginalized identities cope with minority stress and systemic oppression. I am currently seeing clients virtually if you live in MN. I work with almost all mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, panic disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, bipolar, personality disorders, DID, and schizophrenia/delusional disorders. I also have specialized experience in substance use and eating disorders.
I currently work with individuals, partners, and families. My area of passion and expertise is gender and sexuality. I also view therapy and self-care as an act of resistance and believe it can help individuals with marginalized identities cope with minority stress and systemic oppression. I am currently seeing clients virtually if you live in MN. I work with almost all mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, panic disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, bipolar, personality disorders, DID, and schizophrenia/delusional disorders. I also have specialized experience in substance use and eating disorders.
(929) 888-7267 View (929) 888-7267
Photo of Elisa Sarmento, MA, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisa Sarmento
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306  (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.
(651) 383-1784 View (651) 383-1784
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.