Autism Therapists in Walla, WA
Colleen L Boyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Welcome, I'm Colleen Boyd, MSW, M. Ed., LSWAIC, She/Her and I'm happy to meet you along your journey, it is my honor and privilege to be able to provide you with compassion, dignity, justice, excellence, and integrity within the therapeutic process. It has been my passion throughout my career to collaborate with individuals from all walks of life to help in the uncovering of a variety of issues, then guide them towards a place of peace and stability. I specialize in working with children in the world of play therapy. I also work with adults in navigating the complex emotions of depression, anxiety and grief towards hope and comfort.
Welcome, I'm Colleen Boyd, MSW, M. Ed., LSWAIC, She/Her and I'm happy to meet you along your journey, it is my honor and privilege to be able to provide you with compassion, dignity, justice, excellence, and integrity within the therapeutic process. It has been my passion throughout my career to collaborate with individuals from all walks of life to help in the uncovering of a variety of issues, then guide them towards a place of peace and stability. I specialize in working with children in the world of play therapy. I also work with adults in navigating the complex emotions of depression, anxiety and grief towards hope and comfort.
Kim Funderburk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, NCACI, CDP, CDCS, LCHT
Verified Verified
Walla Walla, WA 99362
I love my job! I am user-friendly in your difficult time. I specialize in clients experiencing trauma disorders and symptoms related to trauma, including substance use issues. I invest in the sacred trust relationship between client and therapist and provide a non-judgemental, caring, empathetic, safe place where I believe all my clients are capable of solving their own wellness issues by utilizing the tools and experience I bring to them to assist them in building their own solutions. I understand each client is doing the best they can with the tools they have and truly wants to improve their quality of life.
I love my job! I am user-friendly in your difficult time. I specialize in clients experiencing trauma disorders and symptoms related to trauma, including substance use issues. I invest in the sacred trust relationship between client and therapist and provide a non-judgemental, caring, empathetic, safe place where I believe all my clients are capable of solving their own wellness issues by utilizing the tools and experience I bring to them to assist them in building their own solutions. I understand each client is doing the best they can with the tools they have and truly wants to improve their quality of life.
Are you a self-described "weirdo or nerd" who feels like you're not fitting into your own life? As a therapist who specializes in working with queer, neurodivergent, polyamorous, kinky, and pagan folks, I get it. My clients often say they are exhausted by constant worry that a loved one is about to leave them, having difficulty sleeping, using too much of a substance to feel briefly better (and then feeling worse after), or constantly feeling on edge. If you're wrestling with who you are while managing overwhelming emotions and exhausting anxiety, you're not alone.
Are you a self-described "weirdo or nerd" who feels like you're not fitting into your own life? As a therapist who specializes in working with queer, neurodivergent, polyamorous, kinky, and pagan folks, I get it. My clients often say they are exhausted by constant worry that a loved one is about to leave them, having difficulty sleeping, using too much of a substance to feel briefly better (and then feeling worse after), or constantly feeling on edge. If you're wrestling with who you are while managing overwhelming emotions and exhausting anxiety, you're not alone.
PNW Intimate Connections Counseling PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, RN, CIIPA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Walla Walla, WA 99362 (Online Only)
If saying the word SEX out loud makes you cringe inside, you're in the right place. Right now, the idea of having a deeply satisfying relationship with yourself and others might feel distant. The longing to fully inhabit your body, connect authentically with your partner, and ignite the flames of passion is a natural human yearning. You deserve to reclaim your right to a thriving sexual life. While it may feel difficult to address, together we can navigate this topic so that you can feel fully present and alive in your body and your life.
If saying the word SEX out loud makes you cringe inside, you're in the right place. Right now, the idea of having a deeply satisfying relationship with yourself and others might feel distant. The longing to fully inhabit your body, connect authentically with your partner, and ignite the flames of passion is a natural human yearning. You deserve to reclaim your right to a thriving sexual life. While it may feel difficult to address, together we can navigate this topic so that you can feel fully present and alive in your body and your life.
Thrive on Counseling, LLC Stephanie Koerner
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CMHS, GMHS, EMMHS
Verified Verified
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Waitlist for new clients
As a dual diagnosis/co-occurring psychotherapist, (licensed mental health counselor and licensed substance use disorder professional) my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. By applying specific therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life and incorporate healthy coping skills.
As a dual diagnosis/co-occurring psychotherapist, (licensed mental health counselor and licensed substance use disorder professional) my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. By applying specific therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life and incorporate healthy coping skills.
Online Therapists
Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, leaving you struggling to maintain the life you envision for yourself as things begin to pile up, regardless of how big or small. In such moments, having a safe, supportive space to share your struggles can help you feel less alone, cultivate hope, and shift life from a burden to a joy. Children, teens, and young adults all have unique needs that require different forms of listening and engaging in order to promote well-being and enhance their quality of life.
Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, leaving you struggling to maintain the life you envision for yourself as things begin to pile up, regardless of how big or small. In such moments, having a safe, supportive space to share your struggles can help you feel less alone, cultivate hope, and shift life from a burden to a joy. Children, teens, and young adults all have unique needs that require different forms of listening and engaging in order to promote well-being and enhance their quality of life.
Veronica McNeal
Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99337 (Online Only)
Applied Behavior Analysis is an effective and proven method for dealing with a variety of challenges. If you or a loved one is struggling with communication deficits, repeated and addictive behaviors, or problematic and maladaptive behaviors, ABA may be an effective form of treatment.
Applied Behavior Analysis is an effective and proven method for dealing with a variety of challenges. If you or a loved one is struggling with communication deficits, repeated and addictive behaviors, or problematic and maladaptive behaviors, ABA may be an effective form of treatment.
Unique Approach Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LSWAIC, CMHS, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Tamara Booker and I am a Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical and a Child Mental Health Specialist. I primarily provide family therapy in Richland, WA. I am also open to working individually with youth ages 14 and up, as well as parents or caregivers who need additional support. I graduated from Eastern Washington University with my Master's degree in Social Work. In addition to private practice, I work for Lutheran Community Services providing supervision to Youth and Family Peer Support Specialists for the Wraparound with Intensive Services Program.
My name is Tamara Booker and I am a Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical and a Child Mental Health Specialist. I primarily provide family therapy in Richland, WA. I am also open to working individually with youth ages 14 and up, as well as parents or caregivers who need additional support. I graduated from Eastern Washington University with my Master's degree in Social Work. In addition to private practice, I work for Lutheran Community Services providing supervision to Youth and Family Peer Support Specialists for the Wraparound with Intensive Services Program.
Christina Jean Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352 (Online Only)
Are you someone who has difficulty feeling connected with others, or have you noticed your teen is struggling to connect with you, their friends, family, and even with themselves? Maybe you’re concerned they’re harming themselves, using drugs, or engaging in risky behaviors. They may seem like they don’t have any hope or goals and have low self-confidence. There may be worries about what the future may hold. Maybe you are worried about having difficulties of your own.
Are you someone who has difficulty feeling connected with others, or have you noticed your teen is struggling to connect with you, their friends, family, and even with themselves? Maybe you’re concerned they’re harming themselves, using drugs, or engaging in risky behaviors. They may seem like they don’t have any hope or goals and have low self-confidence. There may be worries about what the future may hold. Maybe you are worried about having difficulties of your own.
Katherine Geisel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
My name is Katherine Geisel, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based outside of Seattle, Washington working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with both adults and adolescents and have primarily worked in crisis intervention helping clients with anxiety, stress, and depression. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with because while clients may be experiencing similar symptoms, everyone is a unique individual with different needs for how they address the symptoms they are struggling with.
My name is Katherine Geisel, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based outside of Seattle, Washington working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with both adults and adolescents and have primarily worked in crisis intervention helping clients with anxiety, stress, and depression. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with because while clients may be experiencing similar symptoms, everyone is a unique individual with different needs for how they address the symptoms they are struggling with.
Ray Hendrickson, PhD in C, licensed as a psychologist in California and Washington states, with an active psychology license in Washington State. I discovered I needed more personal contact with people to identify problems and assist clients with any of their mental health problems. This prompted me to seek my doctorate in psychology, and then from forensic to clinical psychology. I use a communication style that is most comfortable for the client.
Ray Hendrickson, PhD in C, licensed as a psychologist in California and Washington states, with an active psychology license in Washington State. I discovered I needed more personal contact with people to identify problems and assist clients with any of their mental health problems. This prompted me to seek my doctorate in psychology, and then from forensic to clinical psychology. I use a communication style that is most comfortable for the client.
Molly Rogers, LMHC LH61506288 holds a Masters degree in psychology and mental health counseling , as well as a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Molly has been practicing behavior intervention and modification for the past 14 years. I am a solution-based therapist with a compassionate heart, and above all a fun loving, creative individual. I am actively involved in working with school districts and advocate My clients tell me that I bring them cheer and hope through my positive vibes and energy!
Molly Rogers, LMHC LH61506288 holds a Masters degree in psychology and mental health counseling , as well as a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Molly has been practicing behavior intervention and modification for the past 14 years. I am a solution-based therapist with a compassionate heart, and above all a fun loving, creative individual. I am actively involved in working with school districts and advocate My clients tell me that I bring them cheer and hope through my positive vibes and energy!
S. Mike Monks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Visit website for initial appointment availability. Improving yourself can be a rewarding and lifelong positive enhancement. My role as a Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) is to help you in this journey. I believe that every person has room for improvement and seeking professional mental health counseling is a great step to take to improve yourself. I practice from a strengths perspective, helping you realize how to use what you do best to your maximum benefit. I also enjoy helping individuals who are not coping well in the context of their relationships with others and their families.
Visit website for initial appointment availability. Improving yourself can be a rewarding and lifelong positive enhancement. My role as a Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) is to help you in this journey. I believe that every person has room for improvement and seeking professional mental health counseling is a great step to take to improve yourself. I practice from a strengths perspective, helping you realize how to use what you do best to your maximum benefit. I also enjoy helping individuals who are not coping well in the context of their relationships with others and their families.
As a counselor, my approach is deeply rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and empowerment. I believe that every individual, regardless of age, gender identity, or sexual orientation, deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. My counseling perspective is holistic and client-centered, focusing on building strong, trusting relationships that facilitate personal growth and healing.
As a counselor, my approach is deeply rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and empowerment. I believe that every individual, regardless of age, gender identity, or sexual orientation, deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. My counseling perspective is holistic and client-centered, focusing on building strong, trusting relationships that facilitate personal growth and healing.
Sunrise Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Our Behavioral Health Practice experience enables us to offer individualized and effective outpatient and psychological services. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. Our treatment focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward.
Our Behavioral Health Practice experience enables us to offer individualized and effective outpatient and psychological services. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. Our treatment focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward.
If you expect the world to conform to you, you may also expect a lifetime of bitter resentment. No problem is an impairment until you allow yourself to take up the cry of "I Cannot, I Cannot, I Cannot." Some therapists will "support" you in this cry and hold your hand as you walk into hell. Let's turn your heart towards "I Can, I Will, I Am."
If you expect the world to conform to you, you may also expect a lifetime of bitter resentment. No problem is an impairment until you allow yourself to take up the cry of "I Cannot, I Cannot, I Cannot." Some therapists will "support" you in this cry and hold your hand as you walk into hell. Let's turn your heart towards "I Can, I Will, I Am."
Kristina French
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RPT, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352
Being either a youth or a parent is hard work at the best of times. Then there are the challenging days: the days both youth and their parents don't feel like they are good enough, everything feels scarier than it used to feel, and they can't seem to find their joy. During the hard times, it is easy to forget that you have strengths that have gotten you through the tough patches, and they can get you through them again. Having someone who can value your uniqueness and partner with you when brainstorming and implementing solutions can be both affirming and healing.
Being either a youth or a parent is hard work at the best of times. Then there are the challenging days: the days both youth and their parents don't feel like they are good enough, everything feels scarier than it used to feel, and they can't seem to find their joy. During the hard times, it is easy to forget that you have strengths that have gotten you through the tough patches, and they can get you through them again. Having someone who can value your uniqueness and partner with you when brainstorming and implementing solutions can be both affirming and healing.
Please feel free to call, text, or email me with any questions! I specialize in helping individuals of all ages overcome challenges. My areas of therapeutic interest include, but are not limited to, children/play therapy (I have completed over 90 hours of training in play therapy), college students, LGBTQ+, trans clients, as well as religious trauma & deconstruction. I believe that you are uniquely capable of becoming the person you want to be and utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to support you in achieving your own goals.
Please feel free to call, text, or email me with any questions! I specialize in helping individuals of all ages overcome challenges. My areas of therapeutic interest include, but are not limited to, children/play therapy (I have completed over 90 hours of training in play therapy), college students, LGBTQ+, trans clients, as well as religious trauma & deconstruction. I believe that you are uniquely capable of becoming the person you want to be and utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to support you in achieving your own goals.
Hi, I'm Angie. Instead of adding to your to-do list, I want to provide a space to breathe and be present. I do not believe wellness can occur in a pace that does not leave room for rest or mindful reflection. My approach as a counselor is to give you room - room to breathe and grow towards mental wellness. And I do wholeheartedly believe mental wellness can be accessed by all. My desire is to simply provide the opportunity, support and the information to do so.
Hi, I'm Angie. Instead of adding to your to-do list, I want to provide a space to breathe and be present. I do not believe wellness can occur in a pace that does not leave room for rest or mindful reflection. My approach as a counselor is to give you room - room to breathe and grow towards mental wellness. And I do wholeheartedly believe mental wellness can be accessed by all. My desire is to simply provide the opportunity, support and the information to do so.
Amanda McLean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMHC, CMHS, ASDCS, ADHDCCS
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336 (Online Only)
You’ve grown up wondering if you’re weird, wrong, or at fault. You feel like you don’t align with your family, your assigned gender, or traditional relationships. You wonder if you speak the same language as others in your world. You’ve tried to fit in, get things done, and meet others’ standards, but have always felt like you’re missing the mark. You feel stuck, like everyone else knows something you don’t. Now, you want guidance, support, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your ideal life.
You’ve grown up wondering if you’re weird, wrong, or at fault. You feel like you don’t align with your family, your assigned gender, or traditional relationships. You wonder if you speak the same language as others in your world. You’ve tried to fit in, get things done, and meet others’ standards, but have always felt like you’re missing the mark. You feel stuck, like everyone else knows something you don’t. Now, you want guidance, support, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your ideal life.
See more therapy options for Walla
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.