Autism Therapists in Smithfield, NC

Photo of Melissa C Parnell - Parnell Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Parnell Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help is difficult, but it is also one of the most courageous acts a person can take. I understand that difficulty and strive to greet you with the warmth, empathy, and acceptance that you deserve. Working with and supporting people is at the heart of who I am and what I do, and I believe that an authentic relationship is essential for successful outcomes.
Asking for help is difficult, but it is also one of the most courageous acts a person can take. I understand that difficulty and strive to greet you with the warmth, empathy, and acceptance that you deserve. Working with and supporting people is at the heart of who I am and what I do, and I believe that an authentic relationship is essential for successful outcomes.
(919) 759-5556 View (919) 759-5556
Photo of DeOveon Fuentes Sutton, Pre-Licensed Professional
DeOveon Fuentes Sutton
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
While I strive to help others, marriage, couples, families, and mental health treatment, my main focus is to make the client feel important. I seek this profession because I found myself wanting to help and letting individuals express themselves vocally. I look forward to this new journey in counseling and it will be a privilege to serve individuals at their most vulnerable time in need.
While I strive to help others, marriage, couples, families, and mental health treatment, my main focus is to make the client feel important. I seek this profession because I found myself wanting to help and letting individuals express themselves vocally. I look forward to this new journey in counseling and it will be a privilege to serve individuals at their most vulnerable time in need.
(984) 646-6094 View (984) 646-6094
Photo of Jennifer L Harrell, LCMHCA, LCASA, CRC, Counselor
Jennifer L Harrell
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCASA, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
I am a therapist at Living Beyond It in Smithfield, NC. I have spent the past two decades working in the mental health and substance use field. I am accepting new youth and adult patients. My specialties are transition age youth (ages 14-24) and at risk populations. If you or your child are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, social relationships or life in general, I would love to help!
I am a therapist at Living Beyond It in Smithfield, NC. I have spent the past two decades working in the mental health and substance use field. I am accepting new youth and adult patients. My specialties are transition age youth (ages 14-24) and at risk populations. If you or your child are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, social relationships or life in general, I would love to help!
(919) 899-2750 View (919) 899-2750
Photo of Melissa Penley, LCMHCA, Counselor
Melissa Penley
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
I desire to be a therapist that provides the space and place for someone to walk into the counseling room and can know that they are seen and heard. I love working with children, teens and adults. I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques and a variety of other methods to help each person that enters into my office. I know that beginning a therapeutic relationship is not an easy task, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.
I desire to be a therapist that provides the space and place for someone to walk into the counseling room and can know that they are seen and heard. I love working with children, teens and adults. I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques and a variety of other methods to help each person that enters into my office. I know that beginning a therapeutic relationship is not an easy task, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.
(919) 336-0668 View (919) 336-0668
Photo of Marlo R Watson, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlo R Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577  (Online Only)
Are you worried, fearful or depressed? Is it interfering with your life goals? Would you like guidance, options and a new perspective? I can help you gain clarity through compassionate listening, honest feedback, and a focus on results. My goal is that you learn skills to maintain the changes that satisfy you. If you desire a greater ability to understand and control your emotions and feel content, I can help you. We will focus on getting the results you need to live a more satisfying life.
Are you worried, fearful or depressed? Is it interfering with your life goals? Would you like guidance, options and a new perspective? I can help you gain clarity through compassionate listening, honest feedback, and a focus on results. My goal is that you learn skills to maintain the changes that satisfy you. If you desire a greater ability to understand and control your emotions and feel content, I can help you. We will focus on getting the results you need to live a more satisfying life.
(919) 249-5054 View (919) 249-5054
Photo of Lora S. Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lora S. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
As we partner together to find real-life solutions to real-world problems, we begin with the conviction that with God's help, we can find healing and restoration. As a Christian counselor with more than twenty years of experience, I have found that Christian counseling is not only unique, but also facilitates an excellent therapeutic outcome for the client. When applicable, we will apply Biblical principles during the process of counseling. When appropriate I will be blessed to pray for you during our session. Combined with sound therapeutic techniques, Christian counseling has proven to help people experience healing.
As we partner together to find real-life solutions to real-world problems, we begin with the conviction that with God's help, we can find healing and restoration. As a Christian counselor with more than twenty years of experience, I have found that Christian counseling is not only unique, but also facilitates an excellent therapeutic outcome for the client. When applicable, we will apply Biblical principles during the process of counseling. When appropriate I will be blessed to pray for you during our session. Combined with sound therapeutic techniques, Christian counseling has proven to help people experience healing.
(919) 343-0609 View (919) 343-0609
Photo of Lauren Fail, MS, LCMHC
Lauren Fail
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577  (Online Only)
Is life getting to be a bit too much to handle? The balance may seem off and emotions coming up out of nowhere? You’re not alone and there can be relief! Now is the perfect time to deal with any part of life that's been suppressed because inner feelings are likely surfacing. I’m here to help you find peace in your current situation and let go of what you cannot control. You can have joy, renewal in your family, relationships with others, and relationship with yourself.
Is life getting to be a bit too much to handle? The balance may seem off and emotions coming up out of nowhere? You’re not alone and there can be relief! Now is the perfect time to deal with any part of life that's been suppressed because inner feelings are likely surfacing. I’m here to help you find peace in your current situation and let go of what you cannot control. You can have joy, renewal in your family, relationships with others, and relationship with yourself.
(984) 205-4247 View (984) 205-4247
Photo of Kimberly Morden - Destiny Counseling Connection, PLLC, MA, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Destiny Counseling Connection, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
I counsel children, adults and families. I'm a solutions based Christian Counselor that offers many specialties for those who are in need of counseling for Outpatient Behavioral Health Issues, Learning Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and many other Disorders. Call for specific issues you are needing and we can help you determine if we treat your needs.
I counsel children, adults and families. I'm a solutions based Christian Counselor that offers many specialties for those who are in need of counseling for Outpatient Behavioral Health Issues, Learning Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and many other Disorders. Call for specific issues you are needing and we can help you determine if we treat your needs.
(919) 608-8259 View (919) 608-8259

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janelle A. Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janelle A. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
I specialize in serving clients managing burnout or overwhelm due to perinatal mental health issues, depression across the lifespan, chronic marital distress and parenting issues, autism and ADHD, and Social Anxiety.
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed because of burnout. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing disagreements you just can’t seem to solve that seem too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. I am committed to helping you do just that.
I specialize in serving clients managing burnout or overwhelm due to perinatal mental health issues, depression across the lifespan, chronic marital distress and parenting issues, autism and ADHD, and Social Anxiety.
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed because of burnout. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing disagreements you just can’t seem to solve that seem too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. I am committed to helping you do just that.
(919) 514-2273 View (919) 514-2273
Photo of Heidi Escoto - Yogology, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Yogology, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
I have over 20 years of specialized experience in working with Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and OCD.
If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, or depression and would like an "out of the box" approach to therapy, I can help. In addition to a psychologist, I am also a RYT 500 hr. Yoga Teacher and Meditation Teacher. My goal is to facilitate your personal health and wellness. I work collaboratively with clients to identify ample learning opportunities they can create in their everyday environment to achieve the outcomes they want for themselves. I also offer Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations and supervision for other professionals. I offer services in person in Clayton, NC and/or online via a HIPAA secure telehealth portal.
I have over 20 years of specialized experience in working with Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and OCD.
If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, or depression and would like an "out of the box" approach to therapy, I can help. In addition to a psychologist, I am also a RYT 500 hr. Yoga Teacher and Meditation Teacher. My goal is to facilitate your personal health and wellness. I work collaboratively with clients to identify ample learning opportunities they can create in their everyday environment to achieve the outcomes they want for themselves. I also offer Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations and supervision for other professionals. I offer services in person in Clayton, NC and/or online via a HIPAA secure telehealth portal.
(919) 533-2348 View (919) 533-2348
Photo of Christina Strayer - Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle, PC, LCMHC, LCAS-A, DCC
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle, PC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, DCC
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle is a mental health and wellness clinic with offices located in located in Clayton, Raleigh, and Powell's Point. Serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Johnston, Wake, Dare and surrounding counties in NC. We have a team of therapists with the knowledge and experience to help clients with a wide range of mental health and wellness issues. We believe in the power of the human-animal bond and most of our therapists work with animals as co-therapists to accelerate the insight, healing, and growth process.
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle is a mental health and wellness clinic with offices located in located in Clayton, Raleigh, and Powell's Point. Serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Johnston, Wake, Dare and surrounding counties in NC. We have a team of therapists with the knowledge and experience to help clients with a wide range of mental health and wellness issues. We believe in the power of the human-animal bond and most of our therapists work with animals as co-therapists to accelerate the insight, healing, and growth process.
(919) 980-9132 View (919) 980-9132
Photo of Geoff Birch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geoff Birch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27527  (Online Only)
Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves.
Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves.
(919) 739-4707 View (919) 739-4707
Photo of Lora Williams - Hope & Restoration Pathways Christian Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope & Restoration Pathways Christian Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Selma, NC 27576
All of us need help at times in our lives. Sometimes challenges just become too heavy to carry alone. HARP clinicians are here to help. HARP Christian Counseling is dedicated to the provision of quality counseling services provided from the Christian perspective. HARP clinicians are passionate about assisting you as you move beyond painful struggles that hinder joy and peace in your life. It would be our privilege to partner with you to help you find hope and restoration. If you appreciate intercessory prayer, we are humbled by an opportunity to prayer for your needs during the counseling session.
All of us need help at times in our lives. Sometimes challenges just become too heavy to carry alone. HARP clinicians are here to help. HARP Christian Counseling is dedicated to the provision of quality counseling services provided from the Christian perspective. HARP clinicians are passionate about assisting you as you move beyond painful struggles that hinder joy and peace in your life. It would be our privilege to partner with you to help you find hope and restoration. If you appreciate intercessory prayer, we are humbled by an opportunity to prayer for your needs during the counseling session.
(919) 803-8122 View (919) 803-8122

Online Therapists

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 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 Biancas Smith, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Biancas Smith
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor that specializes in working with children and adolescents. I received my Masters of Science in Counselor Education at East Carolina University in 2021. I also received my Masters of Science in Child Development and Family Relations in 2015. I work with clients ranging in age from 5 years and up. I have a passion for working with children that have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disorders. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and trauma. I also provide parenting education.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor that specializes in working with children and adolescents. I received my Masters of Science in Counselor Education at East Carolina University in 2021. I also received my Masters of Science in Child Development and Family Relations in 2015. I work with clients ranging in age from 5 years and up. I have a passion for working with children that have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disorders. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and trauma. I also provide parenting education.
(919) 823-5450 View (919) 823-5450
Photo of Nandana Surana, MEd, EdS, LPA, Psychologist
Nandana Surana
Psychologist, MEd, EdS, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Over the last decade, my focus has been on helping my clients address mental blockers that stand in the way of achieving their potential. I have worked with clients across a spectrum of stressors ranging from anxiety and depression to complex emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, developmental delays, and life transitions. I bring a culturally sensitive approach to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation.
Over the last decade, my focus has been on helping my clients address mental blockers that stand in the way of achieving their potential. I have worked with clients across a spectrum of stressors ranging from anxiety and depression to complex emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, developmental delays, and life transitions. I bring a culturally sensitive approach to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation.
(984) 231-8356 View (984) 231-8356
Photo of Carmen Bolivar, LCSW, Counselor
Carmen Bolivar
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601  (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 Rachael Everett, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Everett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Rachael received her Master of Social Work from Appalachian State University, and she works with individuals, families, and groups of all ages. She serves a wide variety of people with mental health-related issues and conditions. She specializes in working with young children and adolescents with behavioral issues, mood issues such as oppositional defiance disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), autism, anxiety, depression, and more.
Rachael received her Master of Social Work from Appalachian State University, and she works with individuals, families, and groups of all ages. She serves a wide variety of people with mental health-related issues and conditions. She specializes in working with young children and adolescents with behavioral issues, mood issues such as oppositional defiance disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), autism, anxiety, depression, and more.
(984) 266-2285 View (984) 266-2285
Photo of DeLonna A Brown - A Peace of Mind Family Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Peace of Mind Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
APMFC offers a variety of services such as individual child/adult therapy, couples and family therapy and specialize in Childhood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder ODD, ADHD, Autism, Depression, Mood Disorder, Trauma/ PTSD, Occupational Stress, Grief/Loss, Family Relationship Conflict, Family Reunification Therapy, Blended Family Therapy etc.
A Peace of Mind Family Counseling (APMFC) is dedicated to providing comprehensive therapy services to individuals, children, teenagers, and families residing in Raleigh, N.C., and its neighboring areas. I am committed to supporting my clients through a wide range of challenges and have specialized expertise in addressing various concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, childhood disorders, ADHD, autism, and more. At APMFC, I recognize that every person's journey is unique. With over 12 years of clinical experience I believe in approaching each client with compassion, empathy, and respect.
APMFC offers a variety of services such as individual child/adult therapy, couples and family therapy and specialize in Childhood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder ODD, ADHD, Autism, Depression, Mood Disorder, Trauma/ PTSD, Occupational Stress, Grief/Loss, Family Relationship Conflict, Family Reunification Therapy, Blended Family Therapy etc.
A Peace of Mind Family Counseling (APMFC) is dedicated to providing comprehensive therapy services to individuals, children, teenagers, and families residing in Raleigh, N.C., and its neighboring areas. I am committed to supporting my clients through a wide range of challenges and have specialized expertise in addressing various concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, childhood disorders, ADHD, autism, and more. At APMFC, I recognize that every person's journey is unique. With over 12 years of clinical experience I believe in approaching each client with compassion, empathy, and respect.
(919) 251-6628 View (919) 251-6628
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.