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

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.

View Profile
Becca Dorn-Medeiros (She/her)

Licensed Professional Counselor

Ed.S., LPC

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.

View Profile
Kaia Stamiris (She/They)

Professional Counselor Associate

MA, #R7150

I practice neurodivergent-affirming care. In a nutshell, this means our work will emphasize strengths over differences, and affirm your lived experiences. I understand the challenges of living in a society that is not set up to understand neurodivergent perspectives. I place great importance on both autonomy and authenticity, and I give clients lots of space to provide feedback on what is and is not working for them in therapy. I have a naturally slow pace in session and many find this helpful.

View Profile
Chris Lehman

Licensed Professional Counselor

MA, MS, LPC

Since 2013 it has given me great joy to work closely with teens and adults on the Autism Spectrum. I have trained and researched specifically to provide personal, relational, and vocational support for people identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you, a family member, or friend have need for safe, nurturing support for issues related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, please contact me.

View Profile
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.

View Profile
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.

View Profile
Krysta Snyder

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

N361568775

I specialize in providing compassionate psychiatric care to individuals with ASD. My personal experience, combined with extensive professional training, gives me a unique understanding of the complex needs of this population. I am dedicated to creating individualized treatment plans that address co-occurring mental health conditions, while considering the distinct challenges and strengths of those with ASD.

View Profile
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.

View Profile
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.

View Profile
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.

View Profile
Libby Gregory (she/her)

Professional Counselor Associate

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.

View Profile
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

View Profile
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.

View Profile
Alicia Pasik (She/They)

Licensed Professional Counselor

MS, CRC, LPC

I have extensive experience helping folks who are diagnosed or self-identify as neurodiverse. I see neurodiversity as a unique way of existing in the world, rather than as an issue to treat. Some challenges that may be experienced with this diagnosis include feeling different or misunderstood, sensory processing difficulties, and difficulty understanding social cues. I provide neurodivergent-affirming care and believe that you are the expert of your own experience.

View Profile
Amanda Fitzpatrick (She/they)

Marriage and Family Therapist

LMFT

I support individuals and relationships navigating a (late) diagnosis of autism, partners with differing neurotypes, and parenting neurodivergent children. As a neurodivergent person myself, I approach this work from a deeply strength based perspective. You will not encounter lists of deficits nor dehumanizing evaluations in our therapy. Instead we will treat difference with regard. This tends to be a process of exploration and uncovering, unmasking, from a trauma informed perspective.

View Profile