Autism Therapists in Chattanooga, TN
Further, I offer behavioral interventions surrounding autism spectrum disorders.
I'm glad you are here, you are not alone in this journey. Maybe you find yourself feeling impulsive, overwhelmed with intense emotion or wanting to self-destruct. Maybe there are parts of yourself that you have not explored that leave you feeling misunderstood within yourself and in relationships. The repetitive invalidating environments and traumas keep us in this cycle. My hope is to meet you where you are, whether in trenches or the mountain tops. Through the therapeutic relationship our goal is to collaboratively find the authentic you and begin to heal who that person is.
Further, I offer behavioral interventions surrounding autism spectrum disorders.
I'm glad you are here, you are not alone in this journey. Maybe you find yourself feeling impulsive, overwhelmed with intense emotion or wanting to self-destruct. Maybe there are parts of yourself that you have not explored that leave you feeling misunderstood within yourself and in relationships. The repetitive invalidating environments and traumas keep us in this cycle. My hope is to meet you where you are, whether in trenches or the mountain tops. Through the therapeutic relationship our goal is to collaboratively find the authentic you and begin to heal who that person is.
Specific areas of interest for me include autism spectrum disorder, educational disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and behavioral challenges.
Watching your child struggle behaviorally, emotionally, or academically, can be a very scary thing for a parent. You may feel lost and insecure, or you may feel like you have tried everything and nothing seems to work. Additionally, you may have struggled as a kid yourself but have never been able to pinpoint why. I believe through evaluation, one can better understand who they are, how to build on existing strengths, and how to target areas for growth.
Specific areas of interest for me include autism spectrum disorder, educational disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and behavioral challenges.
Watching your child struggle behaviorally, emotionally, or academically, can be a very scary thing for a parent. You may feel lost and insecure, or you may feel like you have tried everything and nothing seems to work. Additionally, you may have struggled as a kid yourself but have never been able to pinpoint why. I believe through evaluation, one can better understand who they are, how to build on existing strengths, and how to target areas for growth.
I am specialized in the area of life skills and organizational skills with a focus in Autism and neurodivergent supports.
Are you neurodivergent and about to graduate from high school, recently graduated from high school or college? Are you trying to transition into a career field, adult relationships, or an independent routine? I can help you navigate hard transitions into adult life. You can schedule a free consultation on morrisindependenceconsultants.com
I am specialized in the area of life skills and organizational skills with a focus in Autism and neurodivergent supports.
Are you neurodivergent and about to graduate from high school, recently graduated from high school or college? Are you trying to transition into a career field, adult relationships, or an independent routine? I can help you navigate hard transitions into adult life. You can schedule a free consultation on morrisindependenceconsultants.com
Madeline Free
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
My passion is working with children and adolescents who have suspected or diagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder (Levels 1 & 2), OCD, and ADHD. I help children and their families navigate challenges such as emotion dysregulation, behavioral issues, and relationship distress that often coincide with these diagnoses. I understand the importance of early intervention and working collaboratively with parents and caregivers to foster healthy development and strengthen family relationships in order to provide a home environment for children to thrive.
My passion is working with children and adolescents who have suspected or diagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder (Levels 1 & 2), OCD, and ADHD. I help children and their families navigate challenges such as emotion dysregulation, behavioral issues, and relationship distress that often coincide with these diagnoses. I understand the importance of early intervention and working collaboratively with parents and caregivers to foster healthy development and strengthen family relationships in order to provide a home environment for children to thrive.
Whether you're wondering about ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, or looking for more information about your child's unique brain, I'm here to help.
There is no greater pain than watching your child struggle. You've read the blogs, asked your doctor, consulted with friends, but you feel no closer to understanding what is going on or how to help. You need answers and you need a roadmap to stop the suffering and get things back on track. I'm here to guide you through the darkness and uncover what your child needs to achieve their true potential. My unique approach involves identifying your child's strengths in addition to their areas of vulnerability so you know exactly what they need to thrive.
Whether you're wondering about ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, or looking for more information about your child's unique brain, I'm here to help.
There is no greater pain than watching your child struggle. You've read the blogs, asked your doctor, consulted with friends, but you feel no closer to understanding what is going on or how to help. You need answers and you need a roadmap to stop the suffering and get things back on track. I'm here to guide you through the darkness and uncover what your child needs to achieve their true potential. My unique approach involves identifying your child's strengths in addition to their areas of vulnerability so you know exactly what they need to thrive.
Working with complex trauma, anxiety, Autism, and ADHD at an all girls facility has highlighted my passion in continuing to work with children, women, and families.
“Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible...” Is a statement Magnolia Tree Therapy hopes to offer in addition to building resilience, strength, love and joy. Magnolia Tree Therapy was created to offer a warm, genuine, and collaborative approach for children to build hope, families to find connection, and women to find themselves again.
Working with complex trauma, anxiety, Autism, and ADHD at an all girls facility has highlighted my passion in continuing to work with children, women, and families.
“Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible...” Is a statement Magnolia Tree Therapy hopes to offer in addition to building resilience, strength, love and joy. Magnolia Tree Therapy was created to offer a warm, genuine, and collaborative approach for children to build hope, families to find connection, and women to find themselves again.
Kelly Geelan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee with 5 years of experience with children, adults and families. My background includes inpatient care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center as well as behavioral therapy in Boston, MA. I have experience in many areas but specialize in a few. The first is individuals (children, adolescents and adults) that are neurodiverse, specifically struggling with Autism or ADHD. Additionally, I love working with parents/caregivers to support through new diagnosis and behavior challenges. Finally, I have a passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety disorders such as GAD or OCD.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee with 5 years of experience with children, adults and families. My background includes inpatient care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center as well as behavioral therapy in Boston, MA. I have experience in many areas but specialize in a few. The first is individuals (children, adolescents and adults) that are neurodiverse, specifically struggling with Autism or ADHD. Additionally, I love working with parents/caregivers to support through new diagnosis and behavior challenges. Finally, I have a passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety disorders such as GAD or OCD.
The narrative surrounding autism has been to "fix" or "cure" what should be celebrated as a valuable form of diversity.
I am a neuro-inclusive/neurodiversity-affirming pre-licensed counselor that enjoys working with autistic folks. I have experience providing support for a wide range of ages and autistic experiences- from those who are newly diagnosed and navigating that process to those who are struggling with the impacts of having to mask in order to survive a world not built for them.
The narrative surrounding autism has been to "fix" or "cure" what should be celebrated as a valuable form of diversity.
I am a neuro-inclusive/neurodiversity-affirming pre-licensed counselor that enjoys working with autistic folks. I have experience providing support for a wide range of ages and autistic experiences- from those who are newly diagnosed and navigating that process to those who are struggling with the impacts of having to mask in order to survive a world not built for them.
Whether it's addressing depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, trauma, or other obstacles, we can work together towards healing and growth.
Looking for the right therapist but feeling lost? Rest assured, you're not alone. I love helping both people and couples who are new to therapy or have tried it before. Feeling comfortable with your therapist is key, and I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment where you can tackle any challenges affecting you or your relationship. I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals and navigating couples through various relationship challenges With training from Level 1 Gottman, alongside specialized instruction in addressing affairs and trauma. Collaborative problem-solving techniques form the backbone of my approach.
Whether it's addressing depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, trauma, or other obstacles, we can work together towards healing and growth.
Looking for the right therapist but feeling lost? Rest assured, you're not alone. I love helping both people and couples who are new to therapy or have tried it before. Feeling comfortable with your therapist is key, and I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment where you can tackle any challenges affecting you or your relationship. I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals and navigating couples through various relationship challenges With training from Level 1 Gottman, alongside specialized instruction in addressing affairs and trauma. Collaborative problem-solving techniques form the backbone of my approach.
Dr. Sarah Otis provides psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for a wide range of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, learning disability, intellectual disability, autism, giftedness, and emotional/behavioral difficulties. She is passionate about helping others navigate cognitive and/or emotional difficulties by taking a strengths based approach and supporting growth through empirically supported recommendations and treatment. Sarah also provides psychotherapy and utilizes an integrative approach that is scientifically informed and psychodynamically influenced.
Dr. Sarah Otis provides psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for a wide range of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, learning disability, intellectual disability, autism, giftedness, and emotional/behavioral difficulties. She is passionate about helping others navigate cognitive and/or emotional difficulties by taking a strengths based approach and supporting growth through empirically supported recommendations and treatment. Sarah also provides psychotherapy and utilizes an integrative approach that is scientifically informed and psychodynamically influenced.
Danielle M McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37402 (Online Only)
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD to children with Level 1 or 2 autism with behavior challenges and those on a waitlist for autism assessment.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD to children with Level 1 or 2 autism with behavior challenges and those on a waitlist for autism assessment.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
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I am a licensed psychologist providing both psychotherapy and testing services for children, adolescents, and adults. I provide comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Differences, and associated psychological concerns. Testing appointments are provided on weekends so you don't have to miss school or work, and I provide results from a strengths-based and therapeutic assessment framework, with the goal of empowering you to thrive and succeed after receiving diagnostic clarity. My goal is to make the testing process as engaging, illuminating, and empowering as possible!
I am a licensed psychologist providing both psychotherapy and testing services for children, adolescents, and adults. I provide comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Differences, and associated psychological concerns. Testing appointments are provided on weekends so you don't have to miss school or work, and I provide results from a strengths-based and therapeutic assessment framework, with the goal of empowering you to thrive and succeed after receiving diagnostic clarity. My goal is to make the testing process as engaging, illuminating, and empowering as possible!
Christine Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37403 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, ADHD, Autism, or just need someone to listen to you empathetically without judgment, connect with me.
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, ADHD, Autism, or just need someone to listen to you empathetically without judgment, connect with me.
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37401
We are more than a business, we are a ministry to any who come to us in need for help. We have multiple counselors: Glyndora Condon MS MFT LPC CTMH, CCTP EMDRIA ACS: specializing in behavioral, relational (marriage, couple, children, friendships) emotional, trauma, anger, autism, domestic violence, life transitions, dissociative, addictions, and provides certified classes for DV, Anger, A&D, and Parenting; also Kelly Brownlow, MS SW, who specializes Family/Children/Adolescent and behavioral issues. Amanda Teague MSW, trauma and DID; Lakita Quarles, LME; Family, adolescents, A&D issues. Cierra Cannaly MFT-Child and adult, multi-issue
We are more than a business, we are a ministry to any who come to us in need for help. We have multiple counselors: Glyndora Condon MS MFT LPC CTMH, CCTP EMDRIA ACS: specializing in behavioral, relational (marriage, couple, children, friendships) emotional, trauma, anger, autism, domestic violence, life transitions, dissociative, addictions, and provides certified classes for DV, Anger, A&D, and Parenting; also Kelly Brownlow, MS SW, who specializes Family/Children/Adolescent and behavioral issues. Amanda Teague MSW, trauma and DID; Lakita Quarles, LME; Family, adolescents, A&D issues. Cierra Cannaly MFT-Child and adult, multi-issue
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you feel like you’ll never get out of the same old routine no matter what you do. Or you think, “Even if I talk to someone about what’s going on, my clothes won’t get folded,” or, “My kid just won’t get off their phone. We’ve tried everything!” And, to be fair, you probably have tried everything. At least, everything that works for “everyone else”. I’m Abby. I specialize in working with people who think a little differently. Whether you’re a teen (or a parent of one), neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, OCD, etc.), or experiencing burnout, you may have thought, “How do I get back to normal?”
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you feel like you’ll never get out of the same old routine no matter what you do. Or you think, “Even if I talk to someone about what’s going on, my clothes won’t get folded,” or, “My kid just won’t get off their phone. We’ve tried everything!” And, to be fair, you probably have tried everything. At least, everything that works for “everyone else”. I’m Abby. I specialize in working with people who think a little differently. Whether you’re a teen (or a parent of one), neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, OCD, etc.), or experiencing burnout, you may have thought, “How do I get back to normal?”
I recognize that the world is largely set up by (and for) those who are neurotypical. For the ones who do not fall into that category (ex. those who have traits of ADHD, ASD, SPD, HSP, etc.) it can lead to some hardships that many do not even realize are factors in one’s everyday life. Because of this, I work hard to offer a space where you feel heard, understood, and valued. I don’t care for words like “fixing” or “normalizing,” but rather, I feel strongly about celebrating neurodivergence and uniqueness, and looking for the strengths that come from the ability to see and process the world in a different way.
I recognize that the world is largely set up by (and for) those who are neurotypical. For the ones who do not fall into that category (ex. those who have traits of ADHD, ASD, SPD, HSP, etc.) it can lead to some hardships that many do not even realize are factors in one’s everyday life. Because of this, I work hard to offer a space where you feel heard, understood, and valued. I don’t care for words like “fixing” or “normalizing,” but rather, I feel strongly about celebrating neurodivergence and uniqueness, and looking for the strengths that come from the ability to see and process the world in a different way.
Emu Aragon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37403 (Online Only)
Clients I see are typically wrestling with experiences that have impacted the way they view themselves, relationships, and the world around them. These experiences often leave us feeling wounded, unable to reconnect with ourselves or others. If this resonates with you, we might be a good fit for each other. As a wounded healer myself I seek to support you on your road to healing in a way that honors your unique set of values, beliefs, and cultural identity. I strive to take the time to get to know you, helping you to feel seen, heard, and understood. Who you want to be is possible. Your story, as it is, doesn't have to define you.
Clients I see are typically wrestling with experiences that have impacted the way they view themselves, relationships, and the world around them. These experiences often leave us feeling wounded, unable to reconnect with ourselves or others. If this resonates with you, we might be a good fit for each other. As a wounded healer myself I seek to support you on your road to healing in a way that honors your unique set of values, beliefs, and cultural identity. I strive to take the time to get to know you, helping you to feel seen, heard, and understood. Who you want to be is possible. Your story, as it is, doesn't have to define you.
I have been a counselor for 35+ years. I specialize in trauma recovery, and anxiety management. Some of the clients in my past include; gifted persons, transitioning adults, sexual/domestic violence survivors, persons harmed by their religious upbringing, self harming individuals, persons who are defining their sexuality and/or gender, and adults/adolescents with ADHD, and neurodivergent populations. I am deeply respectful of the right to determine your own reproductive health needs and have them met safely. If you are exploring your own neurodivergence, I can help you with that. I am autistic, ADHD, gifted, and dyslexic.
I have been a counselor for 35+ years. I specialize in trauma recovery, and anxiety management. Some of the clients in my past include; gifted persons, transitioning adults, sexual/domestic violence survivors, persons harmed by their religious upbringing, self harming individuals, persons who are defining their sexuality and/or gender, and adults/adolescents with ADHD, and neurodivergent populations. I am deeply respectful of the right to determine your own reproductive health needs and have them met safely. If you are exploring your own neurodivergence, I can help you with that. I am autistic, ADHD, gifted, and dyslexic.
You have found the courage to begin, and you want someone to walk with you. Maybe you are tired of feeling the crushing weight of anxiety or depression. Maybe you are the parent of a child with special needs, and you don't know what to do next, but you know you need to do something. Maybe you are finally admitting to yourself the truth about your sexuality, spirituality, or situation, and you are ready to grow into the person you are meant to be. I would be honored to join you on your journey.
You have found the courage to begin, and you want someone to walk with you. Maybe you are tired of feeling the crushing weight of anxiety or depression. Maybe you are the parent of a child with special needs, and you don't know what to do next, but you know you need to do something. Maybe you are finally admitting to yourself the truth about your sexuality, spirituality, or situation, and you are ready to grow into the person you are meant to be. I would be honored to join you on your journey.
Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Waitlist for new clients
I started Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC to service school-age children in the East TN area. I love working with children through pre-teen ages and have also worked with a few higher-functioning teenagers. My typical day involves working with families that face challenges with behavior and working directly with children to decrease these behaviors while building skill deficits. I enjoy including family in my sessions and want to empower caregivers and family members so that they are equipped to handle behavioral challenges.
I started Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC to service school-age children in the East TN area. I love working with children through pre-teen ages and have also worked with a few higher-functioning teenagers. My typical day involves working with families that face challenges with behavior and working directly with children to decrease these behaviors while building skill deficits. I enjoy including family in my sessions and want to empower caregivers and family members so that they are equipped to handle behavioral challenges.
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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.