Autism Therapists in Bellingham, WA
![Photo of Juno Wilde, MEd, LMHC, ASDCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/373008ab-801e-436c-ba03-70222a0bcdc8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Juno Wilde
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Juno. I specialize in Autism Spectrum, ADHD and Gender Identity/Transgender Issues. I'm easy-going and able to chat about daily stressors, but also trained to help with more serious issues and traumas. I use a strengths-based and holistic approach to support you and your needs. I recognize that we achieve growth in different ways, and work with you to find the therapy style that meets your needs. I provide a safe space to feel and be completely accepted, along with the support to gain confidence and embrace your true self.
Hi, I'm Juno. I specialize in Autism Spectrum, ADHD and Gender Identity/Transgender Issues. I'm easy-going and able to chat about daily stressors, but also trained to help with more serious issues and traumas. I use a strengths-based and holistic approach to support you and your needs. I recognize that we achieve growth in different ways, and work with you to find the therapy style that meets your needs. I provide a safe space to feel and be completely accepted, along with the support to gain confidence and embrace your true self.
![Photo of Cara Anderson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ccd0d5-9fd8-4830-b6b0-43316466ea36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Anderson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Anderson provides neurodevelopmental evaluations for children, teens and adults with suspected neurodiversity in order to assist with diagnosis and treatment planning for the following: Learning Disabilities/Differences, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Executive Functioning, and diagnostic evaluations for assistance with medication management. Many people come to Dr. Anderson due to difficulties with school, work or tasks of daily life in order to sort out cognitive and/or neurodevelopmental causes of these challenges.
Dr. Anderson provides neurodevelopmental evaluations for children, teens and adults with suspected neurodiversity in order to assist with diagnosis and treatment planning for the following: Learning Disabilities/Differences, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Executive Functioning, and diagnostic evaluations for assistance with medication management. Many people come to Dr. Anderson due to difficulties with school, work or tasks of daily life in order to sort out cognitive and/or neurodevelopmental causes of these challenges.
![Photo of Sarah Swenson, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e616d88-298d-45fe-8b79-0d23c6af18b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Swenson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Often in my practice, autism and high intelligence come together.
Have you struggled to help your counselor understand the true nature of your relationship because you believe one of you may be autistic? Most well-intended couple counseling techniques are ineffective with couples like you because they are insight-based and emotion-focused, both of which are challenges for someone who is autistic. I can offer insight into what it means to be autistic and what it means to be neurotypical, so that you can see where growth and change might be possible. Together, we can identify communication strategies that will be more effective and goals that make sense to both of you. You are not alone.
Often in my practice, autism and high intelligence come together.
Have you struggled to help your counselor understand the true nature of your relationship because you believe one of you may be autistic? Most well-intended couple counseling techniques are ineffective with couples like you because they are insight-based and emotion-focused, both of which are challenges for someone who is autistic. I can offer insight into what it means to be autistic and what it means to be neurotypical, so that you can see where growth and change might be possible. Together, we can identify communication strategies that will be more effective and goals that make sense to both of you. You are not alone.
![Photo of Dr. Raisa Felts, PsyD, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0b14361-fbc3-4f6b-9d4b-349e3d7e371f/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults. This includes the treatment of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. I have over 10 years of experience working with autism in both research and clinical settings. I am passionate about helping individuals work through anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, and other challenges that may affect their daily lives. Are you feeling stuck, misunderstood, and exhausted? I am here to help guide you through this journey and cultivate a genuine relationship where we can safely discuss challenges based on your needs.
I specialize working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults. This includes the treatment of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. I have over 10 years of experience working with autism in both research and clinical settings. I am passionate about helping individuals work through anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, and other challenges that may affect their daily lives. Are you feeling stuck, misunderstood, and exhausted? I am here to help guide you through this journey and cultivate a genuine relationship where we can safely discuss challenges based on your needs.
![Photo of Carolyn D Hallett - Carolyn Hallett Neurofeedback, JD, CCH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb8bfba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neurofeedback (NFB) relieves anxious, intrusive thoughts with no drugs, no side effects. NFB calms the nervous system, improves sleep, enhances focus which leads to more ease. Enhances focus so you perform better. Reduces distractability, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, and other symptoms related to brain function. I use state-of-the-art technology that triggers the brains neuroplasticity = brain's ability to heal itself. Kids love it. Symptoms of ADHD, autism, sensory issues, rage, depression often resolve. NFB is a breakthrough therapy resulting in greater focus, resilience, joy. www.healthgrades.com/providers/carolyn-hallett-xvqpd
Neurofeedback (NFB) relieves anxious, intrusive thoughts with no drugs, no side effects. NFB calms the nervous system, improves sleep, enhances focus which leads to more ease. Enhances focus so you perform better. Reduces distractability, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, and other symptoms related to brain function. I use state-of-the-art technology that triggers the brains neuroplasticity = brain's ability to heal itself. Kids love it. Symptoms of ADHD, autism, sensory issues, rage, depression often resolve. NFB is a breakthrough therapy resulting in greater focus, resilience, joy. www.healthgrades.com/providers/carolyn-hallett-xvqpd
![Photo of Jessica Norman Wells, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ccd77f5-d063-4ab9-8d19-9f3d89edb4de/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help parents find answers through comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities.
I help parents find answers through comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities.
![Photo of Ellen L Walker, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eafd88f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In private practice in Bellingham since 1991 and in the mental health field since 1986. I provide evaluations to adults throughout Washington State. I have specialized in ADHD since opening my practice. I also enjoy evaluating adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety, with the goal of providing you with clear and helpful answers to your evaluation questions. I am the author of Complete Without Kids: An Insider's Guide To Childfree Living By Choice Or By Chance. 2nd Edition.
In private practice in Bellingham since 1991 and in the mental health field since 1986. I provide evaluations to adults throughout Washington State. I have specialized in ADHD since opening my practice. I also enjoy evaluating adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety, with the goal of providing you with clear and helpful answers to your evaluation questions. I am the author of Complete Without Kids: An Insider's Guide To Childfree Living By Choice Or By Chance. 2nd Edition.
![Photo of Rya Daley, MS-CMHC, LMHCA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d62f77f-d407-46a7-8222-2255ec5c1f88/1/320x400.png)
Rya Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS-CMHC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I’m here to offer support and advocacy for individuals navigating PTSD, trauma, and neurodivergence. My approach blends psychoeducation and psychotherapy to provide a comprehensive path to your goals. With specialized training under an experienced and licensed trauma and autism counselor, I bring a deep understanding of trauma recovery and neurodiverse needs to my practice. I’m dedicated to working collaboratively with you, offering support, and advocating for you on your unique journey.
I’m here to offer support and advocacy for individuals navigating PTSD, trauma, and neurodivergence. My approach blends psychoeducation and psychotherapy to provide a comprehensive path to your goals. With specialized training under an experienced and licensed trauma and autism counselor, I bring a deep understanding of trauma recovery and neurodiverse needs to my practice. I’m dedicated to working collaboratively with you, offering support, and advocating for you on your unique journey.
![Photo of Alecia Harris - All Access Employment and Counseling, MEd, CRC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d308248-df88-402f-a9b2-8ca5024bd4b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
All Access Employment and Counseling
Counselor, MEd, CRC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children as young as five, adolescents, and adults. My focus is with children, youth and adults with ADHD, autism, providing parenting supports, working through trauma, and working with depression and anxiety. I am experienced in providing vocational skills and transition supports to youth after graduating from high school. I use an eclectic approach with a foundation in person-centered therapy. I have certificates in CBT, DBT, Gottman Couple's Couneling, and CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional).
I work with children as young as five, adolescents, and adults. My focus is with children, youth and adults with ADHD, autism, providing parenting supports, working through trauma, and working with depression and anxiety. I am experienced in providing vocational skills and transition supports to youth after graduating from high school. I use an eclectic approach with a foundation in person-centered therapy. I have certificates in CBT, DBT, Gottman Couple's Couneling, and CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional).
![Photo of Kevin Rodas - Grace MindCare](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1fd36f8-6c1c-4738-85cd-600a98faee2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Autism, and bipolar disorder, we provide expert evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to help you achieve stability and emotional wellness.
At Grace Mindcare we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care, cutting-edge ketamine therapy infusions to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Our services are designed to provide holistic support, catering to your unique needs with compassion and expertise.
From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Autism, and bipolar disorder, we provide expert evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to help you achieve stability and emotional wellness.
At Grace Mindcare we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care, cutting-edge ketamine therapy infusions to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Our services are designed to provide holistic support, catering to your unique needs with compassion and expertise.
![Photo of Ashley McAllister, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07c3d092-2194-437c-a032-8b9a8c927c48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley McAllister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225 (Online Only)
8/24: Current openings! Reconnect with yourself, your relationships, and the things that light you up. My specialty areas include complex trauma recovery, family of origin issues, people pleasing, chronic illness, diabetes, neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, etc) and unlearning diet culture. My approach is centered within an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and liberatory perspective. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
8/24: Current openings! Reconnect with yourself, your relationships, and the things that light you up. My specialty areas include complex trauma recovery, family of origin issues, people pleasing, chronic illness, diabetes, neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, etc) and unlearning diet culture. My approach is centered within an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and liberatory perspective. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
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![Photo of Chris Calhoun, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cdcd674-9e98-44bd-9e9c-b20b97914292/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a queer neurodivergent person who has a unique perspective to offer to those who are struggling to see the positive side of life. I use several types of counseling, looking for the right combination of humanistic practices to serve each individual client.
I am a queer neurodivergent person who has a unique perspective to offer to those who are struggling to see the positive side of life. I use several types of counseling, looking for the right combination of humanistic practices to serve each individual client.
![Photo of Jessica Graf, LSWAIC, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feaadf51-dfc0-4361-88c4-8bda83adba3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Graf
Counselor, LSWAIC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98227 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People who are deemed "unique" or "different" often see themselves as misunderstood. This can lead to many different issues such as isolation/loneliness, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, self-esteem issues, behavioral issues, and many others. The teenage and young adult life stages can be especially tough.
People who are deemed "unique" or "different" often see themselves as misunderstood. This can lead to many different issues such as isolation/loneliness, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, self-esteem issues, behavioral issues, and many others. The teenage and young adult life stages can be especially tough.
![Photo of Tara Reagan - Bellingham Neurodevelopmental Services, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e067a776-227c-4330-b055-182175086816/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bellingham Neurodevelopmental Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
Dr. Reagan is a neuropsychologist who works with children and adolescents from ages four through nineteen who are struggling at home, at school, or in the community due to challenges with attention, learning, social skills, or emotions. Her evaluations typically include recommendations on academic supports and interventions, developmental and mental health treatments, and community supports to address challenges with functioning.
Dr. Reagan is a neuropsychologist who works with children and adolescents from ages four through nineteen who are struggling at home, at school, or in the community due to challenges with attention, learning, social skills, or emotions. Her evaluations typically include recommendations on academic supports and interventions, developmental and mental health treatments, and community supports to address challenges with functioning.
![Photo of Calial McCarty, MA, LMHC, CAS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/582b1701-b739-40f7-8984-ac3417742b4f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Working with children, adolescents and families in a wholistic manner is key in support and therapy. I am passionate about working with children, teens, and families who are navigating a neurotypical world through a neurodivergent lens. Finding support, information, and psychotherapy can be a challenge, but I am dedicated to bringing a client-led approach and a place where clients can feel seen and heard. I have had the pleasure of working with community agencies, courts, schools, wrap around services, and other mental health programs. In the therapy space I value client voice, safety and self advocacy.
Working with children, adolescents and families in a wholistic manner is key in support and therapy. I am passionate about working with children, teens, and families who are navigating a neurotypical world through a neurodivergent lens. Finding support, information, and psychotherapy can be a challenge, but I am dedicated to bringing a client-led approach and a place where clients can feel seen and heard. I have had the pleasure of working with community agencies, courts, schools, wrap around services, and other mental health programs. In the therapy space I value client voice, safety and self advocacy.
![Photo of Elizabeth Ellis, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a3ebce7-3947-4df4-b3df-6028baa85175/1/320x400.jpeg)
I became a therapist because I saw the importance of sharing our stories without fear of judgment. It’s because of this understanding that I strive to create a space for you to feel safe to be your true self no matter where you are in your mental health journey. When working together, we will focus on your individual needs and goals–these could include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, or trauma just to name a few. Overall, my goal is to provide support in whatever area you're seeking therapy for.
I became a therapist because I saw the importance of sharing our stories without fear of judgment. It’s because of this understanding that I strive to create a space for you to feel safe to be your true self no matter where you are in your mental health journey. When working together, we will focus on your individual needs and goals–these could include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, or trauma just to name a few. Overall, my goal is to provide support in whatever area you're seeking therapy for.
![Photo of Christine Rose Magnuson, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6573cc97-2bb1-4287-a351-7d1383fea5aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently expanding my practice and accepting new clients most days of the week including weekends. I encourage people to tell me what they need from me, whether that is just to listen to their concerns or help them come up with solutions to their problems when they want help. I believe that everyone deserves to have the opportunity to have the life that they want to live whatever that looks like for them. I tailor my approach to each individual client based on their needs.
I am currently expanding my practice and accepting new clients most days of the week including weekends. I encourage people to tell me what they need from me, whether that is just to listen to their concerns or help them come up with solutions to their problems when they want help. I believe that everyone deserves to have the opportunity to have the life that they want to live whatever that looks like for them. I tailor my approach to each individual client based on their needs.
![Photo of A J Vlossak, LISCWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80ec9a0f-189d-4aa0-ace3-251abedcc0a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
A J Vlossak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISCWA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I'm currently accepting new couples therapy clients. Your brain's being a menace and you want that to change. My goal is to help you navigate that change, recognize the difference between uncomfortable and unhealthy, and create an experience, and a life, that you want to participate in. If you've been in and out of therapy for a long time and struggled to find a fit, you're in my wheelhouse. If you're neurodivergent, neurospicy, got the AuDHD two-for-one special, or are just really, really traumatized (or all of the above!), you're part of the group I work with best.
I'm currently accepting new couples therapy clients. Your brain's being a menace and you want that to change. My goal is to help you navigate that change, recognize the difference between uncomfortable and unhealthy, and create an experience, and a life, that you want to participate in. If you've been in and out of therapy for a long time and struggled to find a fit, you're in my wheelhouse. If you're neurodivergent, neurospicy, got the AuDHD two-for-one special, or are just really, really traumatized (or all of the above!), you're part of the group I work with best.
![Photo of Sharon Strang, MS, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f5c5667-d03c-4c66-a411-179d66fffb4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Isn't it funny that in the process of protecting us, our brains can also hold us back? I believe growth occurs when we make meaningful connections and are supported on our journey toward healing and self-exploration. I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I approach each client with curiosity, authenticity, and humility. Humor is a powerful tool in therapy, and I often incorporate it into sessions when appropriate. Laughter can be incredibly therapeutic by reducing tension and allowing for a balanced experience of lightness and heaviness in session.
Isn't it funny that in the process of protecting us, our brains can also hold us back? I believe growth occurs when we make meaningful connections and are supported on our journey toward healing and self-exploration. I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I approach each client with curiosity, authenticity, and humility. Humor is a powerful tool in therapy, and I often incorporate it into sessions when appropriate. Laughter can be incredibly therapeutic by reducing tension and allowing for a balanced experience of lightness and heaviness in session.
![Photo of Jeanie Bein - Dr. Jeanie Bein, Self-Awareness & Growth, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/212221fa-0778-4db6-82f7-b5c0022d202c/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clients tend to be holistic in orientation. They are motivated, and seek to get unstuck then to grow personally and spiritually.
My clients tend to be holistic in orientation. They are motivated, and seek to get unstuck then to grow personally and spiritually.
See more therapy options for Bellingham
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Bellingham
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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.