Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of complicated brain disorders that often makes it hard to communicate with and socially interact with others. The symptoms and severity of autism spectrum disorders vary widely, but most types affect a child's ability to connect with people. Autistic children may have trouble developing language skills (or not develop them at all), exhibit repetitive behaviors, and appear uninterested in the world around them. As they grow, children with autism have trouble recognizing social cues, like facial expressions, which makes it difficult for them to interpret what others are feeling or thinking. ASD appears in early childhood and, for many, the struggle to relate to others is a life-long battle. While there is no cure for autism, behavioral therapy is often a critical part of the treatment plan and can help the child develop social and language skills. Parents and siblings of children suffering from autism can also benefit from therapy to help them develop healthy and supportive ways of coping.
Local experts in Autism
James Thatcher (He/him)
Clinical Psychologist
PsyD
I have provided well over a thousand Autism or ASD evaluations in my career. I use gold-standard tools, evidence-based measurements, and collateral information to come to a clear and concise diagnosis.
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Dr. Ryan Lloyd
Clinical Psychologist
I have completed specialized training in the evaluation and assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). I have completed over 100 ASD assessments and can evaluation children as young as 18 months all the way to adults.
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Caretia Silva (she/her/hers)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LCSW, LICSW
I have had years of experience working with neurodiverse clients and I welcome you to reach out.
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Becca Dorn-Medeiros (She/her)
Professional Counselor Associate
Ed.S., NCSP, LPC-Associate
My school psychologist training and experience has given me extensive knowledge of autism and other neurodiversities. I believe that autism is not a thing to be cured, but a unique way of interacting with and understanding the world. I believe in supporting autistic people in advocating for themselves and finding pride in their identities.
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Libby Gregory (she/her)
Student Counselor
M.A.
Your neurodivergence is a part of who you are. I have 5+ years working with people who are neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism). I can work with you to process a diagnosis, explore what your neurodivergence means to you, manage symptoms, or just provide a safe place for you to be understood as we work together. Your neurodivergence can be as much or as little of the topic of conversation as you would like. It is important to have a counselor who understands and accepts YOU, for exactly as you are.
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Catherine Lazen (she/her)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
M.Ed, MSW, LCSW
I have specialized training to support children and families in the home and school setting to support children on the autism spectrum (including Aspergers). I provide counseling and social/emotional skills training to help children and adults with relationship/social challenges. l also advocate for academic supports (IEP, 504) in school settings.
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Emily Haygeman (they/them/she/her)
Clinical Psychologist
PhD
I have over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have conducted ABA therapy as well as research through the University of Utah's Autism Research Program. I have led myriad social skills groups, including the PEERS curriculum. I am an expert in the assessment and evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder and related disorders.
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Brad Poser, MS, CRC
Professional Counselor Associate
I have ten years of experience working with individuals with autism. My specialty is helping parents understand and relate to a child with autism. I also have experience assisting individuals with autism who are struggling with anxiety or frustration
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Amanda Fitzpatrick (She/they)
Marriage and Family Therapist
LMFT
Couples (neurotypical and neurodiverse) who have had a child diagnosed or suspect that their child could be diagnosed autism experience tremendous stress and general lack of community support. I support couples who are working hard to be advocates for their kids and balance home, work, and personal lives. I am deeply invested in this work and will support couples at any stage in their journey.
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Kathleen Thompson (she/her)
Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC, CRC
Many adults wonder if they have Aspergers or Autism because work isn't going well, relationships are a struggle & stress is difficult to manage. Understanding how your brain & body works is the most important way to move forward. We can work together to determine if you are neurodiverse & to find your niche vocationally as well as building confidence in relationships.
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Sarah Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor
MA LPC
Therapy for Autistic people and those who love them. I work from a strengths-based perspective to help Autistic people develop a healthy identity and work with the challenges of being neurodiverse in a world that privileges the neurotypical.
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Kimberly Zeszutek, LPC (She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC
Since 2007, I have developed a style of skill building and supportive therapy for those who identify with Neurodiversity and the Autism Spectrum. Many of these individuals have had to navigate against the grain of a neurotypical societies expectations. My goal is to assist individuals to become empowered by their neurodiversity, and to apply their value and strengths towards their personal goals and to over all positive growth of society.
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