Autism Therapists in Guilford County, NC

Photo of Amber Paylor Bliss, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Amber Paylor Bliss
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I specialize in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, and the Autism Spectrum, with tailored support that draws from CBT and an array of evidence-based approaches.
Clients come to me to create healthy coping skills, overcome unwanted behaviors and thoughts, and find a safe and understanding space to embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment. I am dedicated to providing compassionate support for individuals on the Autism Spectrum, guiding young adults through the challenges of anxiety and depression, offering treatment for kids and adults with ADHD.
I specialize in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, and the Autism Spectrum, with tailored support that draws from CBT and an array of evidence-based approaches.
Clients come to me to create healthy coping skills, overcome unwanted behaviors and thoughts, and find a safe and understanding space to embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment. I am dedicated to providing compassionate support for individuals on the Autism Spectrum, guiding young adults through the challenges of anxiety and depression, offering treatment for kids and adults with ADHD.
(336) 265-7318 View (336) 265-7318
Photo of Elizabeth Curtiss, PhD
Elizabeth Curtiss
PhD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Autism Support - Helping individuals and families improve social understanding, social responses, communication skills, executive functioning, academic challenges, organizational skills, autism awareness instruction, and instructional presentations.
Dr. Curtiss has a PhD in Exceptional Children. Most of her work is with people with Level 1 autism/Asperger’s Syndrome. She has been a teacher for over 20 years and has worked as an Autism Specialist for over 10 years. She owns Curtiss Specialized Consulting and offers the following services: ADOS-2 ( autism testing), autism support, transition support (moving from school to adulthood or from school to school), independent living and daily living skills support, career life coaching, and academic support/tutoring high school and college. You do not need to have an official diagnosis to work with Dr. Curtiss.
Autism Support - Helping individuals and families improve social understanding, social responses, communication skills, executive functioning, academic challenges, organizational skills, autism awareness instruction, and instructional presentations.
Dr. Curtiss has a PhD in Exceptional Children. Most of her work is with people with Level 1 autism/Asperger’s Syndrome. She has been a teacher for over 20 years and has worked as an Autism Specialist for over 10 years. She owns Curtiss Specialized Consulting and offers the following services: ADOS-2 ( autism testing), autism support, transition support (moving from school to adulthood or from school to school), independent living and daily living skills support, career life coaching, and academic support/tutoring high school and college. You do not need to have an official diagnosis to work with Dr. Curtiss.
(336) 485-4240 View (336) 485-4240
Photo of Mamie A Turner - Sunrise ABA & Autism Services, LLC, MA, BCBA
Sunrise ABA & Autism Services, LLC
MA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Sunrise ABA & Autism Services, L.L.C. was founded by Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Mamie A. Turner, M.A., BCBA. Mamie has been working in the field of Psychology her entire career. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Jackson State University, Jackson, MS and her Master’s Degree in Developmental Psychology from U.C. Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. After completing her Behavior Analyst's certification requirements, Mamie has provided ABA services for children with Autism in counties from Forsyth, to Wake, to Granville. She is excited to offer these services in Guilford County where she resides.
Sunrise ABA & Autism Services, L.L.C. was founded by Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Mamie A. Turner, M.A., BCBA. Mamie has been working in the field of Psychology her entire career. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Jackson State University, Jackson, MS and her Master’s Degree in Developmental Psychology from U.C. Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. After completing her Behavior Analyst's certification requirements, Mamie has provided ABA services for children with Autism in counties from Forsyth, to Wake, to Granville. She is excited to offer these services in Guilford County where she resides.
(336) 645-6733 x101 View (336) 645-6733 x101
Photo of Sarah Gates, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Sarah Gates
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I am a licensed psychological associate who provides counseling and psychological evaluation services to children and adolescents individually and within the context of the family. I have extensive experience in the areas of learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, oppositional defiant behaviors, aggression, developmental disabilities, and giftedness. Furthermore, I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I am a licensed psychological associate who provides counseling and psychological evaluation services to children and adolescents individually and within the context of the family. I have extensive experience in the areas of learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, oppositional defiant behaviors, aggression, developmental disabilities, and giftedness. Furthermore, I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(336) 505-9963 x108 View (336) 505-9963 x108
Photo of Barbara Bear - Barbara Bear PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Barbara Bear PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
My educational and professional experiences integrate clinical psychology, organizational psychology, educational and career consulting, knowledge of the legal system, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & working with high-conflict situations.
I have been a Doctoral Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 23 years, an Educational and Career Consultant, a Certified Autism Specialist, an Executive Coach, and a Law School Graduate. My diverse background of educational and professional experience helping individuals, couples, and families live more productive and fulfilling lives is my passion. My clientele includes lawyers, physicians, therapists, executives, college students, and other professionals committed to changing their lives. Each client is treated with respect, and dignity, in a judgement free zone. I seek to hear, understand, empathize, be active, authentic, & direct.
My educational and professional experiences integrate clinical psychology, organizational psychology, educational and career consulting, knowledge of the legal system, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & working with high-conflict situations.
I have been a Doctoral Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 23 years, an Educational and Career Consultant, a Certified Autism Specialist, an Executive Coach, and a Law School Graduate. My diverse background of educational and professional experience helping individuals, couples, and families live more productive and fulfilling lives is my passion. My clientele includes lawyers, physicians, therapists, executives, college students, and other professionals committed to changing their lives. Each client is treated with respect, and dignity, in a judgement free zone. I seek to hear, understand, empathize, be active, authentic, & direct.
(336) 438-8802 View (336) 438-8802
Photo of Blake Daniel Herd, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Blake Daniel Herd
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I provide individual therapy and testing for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with issues related to emotion regulation/depression, autism spectrum disorder, gender dysphoria, AD/HD, relationships, anxiety, and academic/work. I am particularly passionate about providing affirming care to members of the LGBTQIA+ community and working with clients to understand and navigate how various aspects of their identity intersect with their daily lives. I also test for a variety of different issues including Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, learning disorders, cognitive impairment, and mood and anxiety-related disorders.
I provide individual therapy and testing for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with issues related to emotion regulation/depression, autism spectrum disorder, gender dysphoria, AD/HD, relationships, anxiety, and academic/work. I am particularly passionate about providing affirming care to members of the LGBTQIA+ community and working with clients to understand and navigate how various aspects of their identity intersect with their daily lives. I also test for a variety of different issues including Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, learning disorders, cognitive impairment, and mood and anxiety-related disorders.
(336) 569-2099 View (336) 569-2099
Photo of Heather Lane Dunleavy Adult Autism Specialist, MA, MEd, LMFT, AAMFT, ASDCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Lane Dunleavy Adult Autism Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT, AAMFT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
I specialize in working with adults, with Autism, primarily; however, I also work with the entire family/support system.
In 2011, I decided to start studying to become a therapist after working as a classroom educator for 16 years, because I saw the failing of the educational system and the struggles of the family system. I started working as a therapist in 2016, and today, we all face a variety of emotional issues that are difficult for to express, name, and discuss. Many people feel as if no one is listening or will listen to them, especially adults on the Autism Spectrum who already struggle with communication. I want to help empower all people on the Autism Spectrum and their support systems.
I specialize in working with adults, with Autism, primarily; however, I also work with the entire family/support system.
In 2011, I decided to start studying to become a therapist after working as a classroom educator for 16 years, because I saw the failing of the educational system and the struggles of the family system. I started working as a therapist in 2016, and today, we all face a variety of emotional issues that are difficult for to express, name, and discuss. Many people feel as if no one is listening or will listen to them, especially adults on the Autism Spectrum who already struggle with communication. I want to help empower all people on the Autism Spectrum and their support systems.
(336) 697-6368 View (336) 697-6368
Photo of Tara Laymon - A Bridge to Achievement, BCBA
A Bridge to Achievement
BCBA
Not Verified Not Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
Our CEO, Dana Alley, has experienced firsthand how Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) transformed the life of her son with autism. Dana started A Bridge to Achievement to provide families access to timely and high-quality home-based ABA services. Her unique perspective as a parent drives our agency's commitment to family-centered services which sets A Bridge to Achievement apart from other providers.
Our CEO, Dana Alley, has experienced firsthand how Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) transformed the life of her son with autism. Dana started A Bridge to Achievement to provide families access to timely and high-quality home-based ABA services. Her unique perspective as a parent drives our agency's commitment to family-centered services which sets A Bridge to Achievement apart from other providers.
(336) 344-9233 View (336) 344-9233
Photo of Marycaroline Gibson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marycaroline Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27395  (Online Only)
Accepting telehealth clients! Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming. The hardest step is just showing up, and you have already accomplished that! Everyone has different needs and goals - and there is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy. As such, the techniques that I use differ from client to client. We can work collaboratively to address your individual needs and goals! Some of my focus areas include Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intergenerational Trauma, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Family Trauma, Career Counseling and Stress Management.
Accepting telehealth clients! Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming. The hardest step is just showing up, and you have already accomplished that! Everyone has different needs and goals - and there is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy. As such, the techniques that I use differ from client to client. We can work collaboratively to address your individual needs and goals! Some of my focus areas include Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intergenerational Trauma, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Family Trauma, Career Counseling and Stress Management.
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Photo of Carmen Bolivar, LCSW, Counselor
Carmen Bolivar
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27395  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Carmen Bolivar, and I am a licensed mental health counselor. I am bilingual and originally from Venezuela. I enjoy working with autistic adults because I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also identify as a kink-informed kink-aware therapist who also focuses on LGBTQ+ individuals. My current focus is the overlap between these populations and autism, often working with autistic individuals who are unidentified until later in life.
Hi! My name is Carmen Bolivar, and I am a licensed mental health counselor. I am bilingual and originally from Venezuela. I enjoy working with autistic adults because I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also identify as a kink-informed kink-aware therapist who also focuses on LGBTQ+ individuals. My current focus is the overlap between these populations and autism, often working with autistic individuals who are unidentified until later in life.
(919) 301-9331 View (919) 301-9331
Photo of Bria McDaniel-Young, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bria McDaniel-Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I specialize in helping clients with developing tools tools to manage neurodivergent diagnosis such as ADHD, Autism, challenging behavior, and family conflict.
I'm a Child & Family therapist working with those impacted by ADHD, ASD and the foster care system. I work with clients who have fought the world so that children can have the life they deserve no matter their diagnosis or background. The same clients often feel like they are also fighting themselves. Battling symptoms and the systems that come with foster care, having ADHD, or having ASD, feels exhausting, lonely and endless. But what would life look like if you were heard, seen, and supported? For my clients, it looks like having me in their corner empowering them so that they thrive despite the fight and rest despite the "list."
I specialize in helping clients with developing tools tools to manage neurodivergent diagnosis such as ADHD, Autism, challenging behavior, and family conflict.
I'm a Child & Family therapist working with those impacted by ADHD, ASD and the foster care system. I work with clients who have fought the world so that children can have the life they deserve no matter their diagnosis or background. The same clients often feel like they are also fighting themselves. Battling symptoms and the systems that come with foster care, having ADHD, or having ASD, feels exhausting, lonely and endless. But what would life look like if you were heard, seen, and supported? For my clients, it looks like having me in their corner empowering them so that they thrive despite the fight and rest despite the "list."
(336) 800-3771 View (336) 800-3771
Photo of Hilary Flint, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Hilary Flint
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the following: trauma, disordered eating, anger issues, anxiety, perfectionism/people-pleasing, neurodivergence (ADHD/ Autism), and addiction/recovery.
Now scheduling Autism/ADHD assessments! Waitlist for ongoing therapy. I am a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, EMDR and ERP trained therapist. I work with clients to heal from past experiences, live authentically, and feel more connected to themselves. I meet each client exactly where they are, using resilience-based and social justice informed approaches. I offer personalized therapy to meet your individual needs and work toward your goals. I prioritize providing you with a safe and affirming space for healing and exploration. I offer online therapy to individuals residing anywhere in North Carolina.
I specialize in working with the following: trauma, disordered eating, anger issues, anxiety, perfectionism/people-pleasing, neurodivergence (ADHD/ Autism), and addiction/recovery.
Now scheduling Autism/ADHD assessments! Waitlist for ongoing therapy. I am a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, EMDR and ERP trained therapist. I work with clients to heal from past experiences, live authentically, and feel more connected to themselves. I meet each client exactly where they are, using resilience-based and social justice informed approaches. I offer personalized therapy to meet your individual needs and work toward your goals. I prioritize providing you with a safe and affirming space for healing and exploration. I offer online therapy to individuals residing anywhere in North Carolina.
(984) 214-4648 View (984) 214-4648
Photo of Dr. D'Angelo Lewis, PhD, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. D'Angelo Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27407
I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and PTSD.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you wish that you could change the past? Are you anxious about things on the horizon? Do you need help moving forward because you simply feel stuck? Are you a parent whose child is dealing with issues that they either won't share or that you struggle to help them with? For over eight years I've helped people experience a better quality of life that answered yes to one or all of these questions. My passions are assisting parents with expanding their coping repertoire, helping couples and families hear each other, and assisting children in finding their voices after traumatic events.
I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and PTSD.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you wish that you could change the past? Are you anxious about things on the horizon? Do you need help moving forward because you simply feel stuck? Are you a parent whose child is dealing with issues that they either won't share or that you struggle to help them with? For over eight years I've helped people experience a better quality of life that answered yes to one or all of these questions. My passions are assisting parents with expanding their coping repertoire, helping couples and families hear each other, and assisting children in finding their voices after traumatic events.
(336) 975-5787 View (336) 975-5787
Photo of Dr. Mark Bell, PhD, LCMHCS
Dr. Mark Bell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
Bell's Global Academy is offering educational testing, clinical testing of personal characteristics, diagnostic evaluation, and biopsychosocial assessment services to clients of all ages. Dr. Bell specializes in ADHD, Autism, IQ, personality, emotion, behavior, and cognition assessment, and has over 14 years experience in providing comprehensive clinical assessments and diagnostic evaluations to populations of all age ranges and backgrounds.
Bell's Global Academy is offering educational testing, clinical testing of personal characteristics, diagnostic evaluation, and biopsychosocial assessment services to clients of all ages. Dr. Bell specializes in ADHD, Autism, IQ, personality, emotion, behavior, and cognition assessment, and has over 14 years experience in providing comprehensive clinical assessments and diagnostic evaluations to populations of all age ranges and backgrounds.
(336) 753-5237 View (336) 753-5237
Photo of Stacey Hill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacey Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Stacey Hill is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). For the past 8 years, Stacey has been providing clinical services within community mental health. While an undergraduate, Stacey received training in Applied Behavioral Analysis and gained 12 years of experience in working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Her clinical and administrative experience includes working with ages from 2 to 20 years including serving adolescents with significant mental health needs and concerns in a crisis base model. Stacey has experience in a Pediatric office working alongside with doctors to give her clients integrated healthcare.
Stacey Hill is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). For the past 8 years, Stacey has been providing clinical services within community mental health. While an undergraduate, Stacey received training in Applied Behavioral Analysis and gained 12 years of experience in working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Her clinical and administrative experience includes working with ages from 2 to 20 years including serving adolescents with significant mental health needs and concerns in a crisis base model. Stacey has experience in a Pediatric office working alongside with doctors to give her clients integrated healthcare.
(919) 899-7398 View (919) 899-7398
Photo of Hannah Littlefield, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Littlefield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
I also have experience in working with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a life changing process. I aim to provide a warm and comforting atmosphere to those seeking to take this step in their lives. I believe that my clients are the experts on themselves and that I use my knowledge to support and guide them along the way. I integrate perspectives from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused approaches to be with my clients. I understand that change may be uncomfortable, which is why I aim to challenge and support you when it may be necessary. I accept each client as they are and aim to provide a non-judgmental environment in which they can grow.
I also have experience in working with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a life changing process. I aim to provide a warm and comforting atmosphere to those seeking to take this step in their lives. I believe that my clients are the experts on themselves and that I use my knowledge to support and guide them along the way. I integrate perspectives from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused approaches to be with my clients. I understand that change may be uncomfortable, which is why I aim to challenge and support you when it may be necessary. I accept each client as they are and aim to provide a non-judgmental environment in which they can grow.
(336) 920-8566 View (336) 920-8566
Photo of Debi Pruitt, LCMHC, MA, MEd, ICST
Debi Pruitt
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, MEd, ICST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, working with ASD adults.
As a Neurodivergent Therapist, I specialize in Neurodivergent Educators, and other Neurodivergent Folx! Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and stress? Struggling with adjustment, dealing w/past trauma, drowning in depression? I can help you work through these challenges, focusing on your strengths, while healing trauma, finding clarity, understanding the "why", and strengthening relationship. A retired teacher and former school-based therapist, I have the expertise to support you in your journey toward positive change, so you can feel in control, empowered, and at peace. Our challenges are not readily understood by everyone!
I am also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, working with ASD adults.
As a Neurodivergent Therapist, I specialize in Neurodivergent Educators, and other Neurodivergent Folx! Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and stress? Struggling with adjustment, dealing w/past trauma, drowning in depression? I can help you work through these challenges, focusing on your strengths, while healing trauma, finding clarity, understanding the "why", and strengthening relationship. A retired teacher and former school-based therapist, I have the expertise to support you in your journey toward positive change, so you can feel in control, empowered, and at peace. Our challenges are not readily understood by everyone!
(336) 542-3349 View (336) 542-3349
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Schmalz, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Jonathan Schmalz
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
(336) 962-6565 View (336) 962-6565
Photo of Andi Jones, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andi Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Andi and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. If you are a teen or adult in the LGBT community, who may be having a hard time reconciling their idea of their gender identity and presentation, my passion and experience may be a good fit with you. If you identify as neurodiverse, including intellectual and developmental disabilities and conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and/or autism all across the spectrum, I hope you’ll consider reaching out.
Hello! My name is Andi and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. If you are a teen or adult in the LGBT community, who may be having a hard time reconciling their idea of their gender identity and presentation, my passion and experience may be a good fit with you. If you identify as neurodiverse, including intellectual and developmental disabilities and conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and/or autism all across the spectrum, I hope you’ll consider reaching out.
(336) 568-8989 View (336) 568-8989
Photo of Kayla Reber, LCMHC, Counselor
Kayla Reber
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27395  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting individuals facing a variety of challenges, including addiction, trauma, gender, autism/ADHD, and anxiety/depression.
As a therapist dedicated to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults, I focus on providing neuroaffirmative and LGBTQIA+ affirmative care tailored to your unique experiences. I’m passionate about creating a safe, welcoming space where we can explore sensitive topics without stigma. My approach combines evidence-based techniques with a strong emphasis on understanding the complexities of identity and neurodiversity. Together, we’ll work to break down barriers, celebrate your individuality, and align our therapeutic journey with your specific needs, fostering growth and self-acceptance.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing a variety of challenges, including addiction, trauma, gender, autism/ADHD, and anxiety/depression.
As a therapist dedicated to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults, I focus on providing neuroaffirmative and LGBTQIA+ affirmative care tailored to your unique experiences. I’m passionate about creating a safe, welcoming space where we can explore sensitive topics without stigma. My approach combines evidence-based techniques with a strong emphasis on understanding the complexities of identity and neurodiversity. Together, we’ll work to break down barriers, celebrate your individuality, and align our therapeutic journey with your specific needs, fostering growth and self-acceptance.
(984) 224-7369 View (984) 224-7369
1

See more therapy options for Guilford County

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.