Autism Therapists in Halifax, NS
I provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessment services (e.g., ADHD, ASD, brain Injury, personality and interpersonal functioning).
My clinical orientation is strongly rooted in the integration of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories. This perspective gives me an understanding of clients’ emotional needs and distress, and their difficulty soothing this pain alone and within their relationships. It also provides a frame to attempt to identify the root of their struggles.
I provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessment services (e.g., ADHD, ASD, brain Injury, personality and interpersonal functioning).
My clinical orientation is strongly rooted in the integration of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories. This perspective gives me an understanding of clients’ emotional needs and distress, and their difficulty soothing this pain alone and within their relationships. It also provides a frame to attempt to identify the root of their struggles.
Looking for an adult autism assessment with a neurodivergent psychologist?
Together, we can explore your neurodiversity to help you better understand your inner experience & needs via a thorough assessment, which often leads to increased self-acceptance, a firmer sense of identity, and guidance on coping, resources, communities, clinical supports and so on. Being ND myself, I can offer unique insight and acceptance in this process.
Looking for an adult autism assessment with a neurodivergent psychologist?
Together, we can explore your neurodiversity to help you better understand your inner experience & needs via a thorough assessment, which often leads to increased self-acceptance, a firmer sense of identity, and guidance on coping, resources, communities, clinical supports and so on. Being ND myself, I can offer unique insight and acceptance in this process.
My clients include adults and teens who often fall outside conventional norms, including those who are neurodivergent, queer, gender-diverse, polyamorous, and/or living with disabilities.
I draw on many modalities in my practice, such as storytelling, mindfulness, nervous system regulation, guided visualization, breathwork, expressive arts, and somatics (body-centred exploration). I wish to help my clients explore deep Self, their connections with others, and their relationship with the Earth.
My clients include adults and teens who often fall outside conventional norms, including those who are neurodivergent, queer, gender-diverse, polyamorous, and/or living with disabilities.
I draw on many modalities in my practice, such as storytelling, mindfulness, nervous system regulation, guided visualization, breathwork, expressive arts, and somatics (body-centred exploration). I wish to help my clients explore deep Self, their connections with others, and their relationship with the Earth.
Originally from Annapolis Valley, Dr. McClure graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Science degree. She then achieved distinction as a Killam Laureate during her graduate studies at The University of British Columbia, where she completed two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. After a decade of training out west, Dr. McClure returned home to her family in Nova Scotia.
Originally from Annapolis Valley, Dr. McClure graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Science degree. She then achieved distinction as a Killam Laureate during her graduate studies at The University of British Columbia, where she completed two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. After a decade of training out west, Dr. McClure returned home to her family in Nova Scotia.
I am the owner of Home Grown Occupational Therapy, and an Occupational Therapist working in neurodivergent mental health.
We'll work on skills in sessions, and integrate them between sessions. Typical topics covered are: self-compassion, emotional regulation, burnout recovery and prevention, education, pacing and scheduling, inertia, sensory needs, values and unmasking, work and school accommodations, and identifying and accessing other resources like the Disability Tax Credit
I am the owner of Home Grown Occupational Therapy, and an Occupational Therapist working in neurodivergent mental health.
We'll work on skills in sessions, and integrate them between sessions. Typical topics covered are: self-compassion, emotional regulation, burnout recovery and prevention, education, pacing and scheduling, inertia, sensory needs, values and unmasking, work and school accommodations, and identifying and accessing other resources like the Disability Tax Credit
Maybe you’ve recently discovered you’re autistic, or you’re starting to wonder if that might be true for you.
Explore empowerment & authenticity, sensory needs, communication & processing differences, decision fatigue, over-functioning, managing visibility and values alignment for work-life fulfillment. I offer neurodivergent queer affirming therapy that honours your lived experience and taps into your resilience, creativity and unique ways of navigating the world.
Maybe you’ve recently discovered you’re autistic, or you’re starting to wonder if that might be true for you.
Explore empowerment & authenticity, sensory needs, communication & processing differences, decision fatigue, over-functioning, managing visibility and values alignment for work-life fulfillment. I offer neurodivergent queer affirming therapy that honours your lived experience and taps into your resilience, creativity and unique ways of navigating the world.
One of my primary focuses within my practice is psychological assessments, including assessing for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Trauma, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I'm James, and my practice is proudly a part of the Riverwest Therapy Collective in downtown Calgary. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist. I am able to offer Therapy and Assessments for individual adult clients, both in person at my office in Calgary and virtually across Alberta and Nova Scotia. I am trained in a variety of methods and modalities, and am dedicated to finding the right approach for you.
One of my primary focuses within my practice is psychological assessments, including assessing for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Trauma, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I'm James, and my practice is proudly a part of the Riverwest Therapy Collective in downtown Calgary. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist. I am able to offer Therapy and Assessments for individual adult clients, both in person at my office in Calgary and virtually across Alberta and Nova Scotia. I am trained in a variety of methods and modalities, and am dedicated to finding the right approach for you.
Have you ever wondered if you have Autism, ADHD, or a learning disorder?
If you feel like you are unable to overcome your obstacles, I can help alleviate your pain when your struggles and pressures become overwhelming. I am trained to provide therapy to individuals dealing with grief, loss, trauma, relationship conflicts, and more to give you insight into your mental health challenges and deliver strategies to provide relief.
Have you ever wondered if you have Autism, ADHD, or a learning disorder?
If you feel like you are unable to overcome your obstacles, I can help alleviate your pain when your struggles and pressures become overwhelming. I am trained to provide therapy to individuals dealing with grief, loss, trauma, relationship conflicts, and more to give you insight into your mental health challenges and deliver strategies to provide relief.
I work with autistic & multiply neurodivergent people around: Severe & chronic burnout; Learning disabilities - Dyslexia & Dyscalculia, ADHD; NVLD; SPD; Social isolation & loneliness; Masking & unmasking; Meltdowns & shutdowns; Demand Avoidance; Sensory defence & resourcing; Accommodations planning; OCD & OCPD; Mood - Anxiety, Depression, Cyclothymia; Alexythymia; Addictions - substance, tech, sex, work, spending; Chronic illness / Disability; Identity emergence /explorations (Gender, Sexuality, Neurodivergence); Relationships (QT, ace/aros, kink/BDSM & poly fam constellations); and Professional / vocational wayfinding.
I provide trauma treatment for C-PTSD: Complex developmental trauma (e.g. neglect, poverty); Systemic trauma (e.g. educational, medical, workplace inequity & discrimination); Interpersonal & social trauma (e.g. exclusion, betrayal, exploitation, scapegoating), and gender & sexual trauma (e.g. sexual abuse / coercion, gender identity disavowal).
I work with autistic & multiply neurodivergent people around: Severe & chronic burnout; Learning disabilities - Dyslexia & Dyscalculia, ADHD; NVLD; SPD; Social isolation & loneliness; Masking & unmasking; Meltdowns & shutdowns; Demand Avoidance; Sensory defence & resourcing; Accommodations planning; OCD & OCPD; Mood - Anxiety, Depression, Cyclothymia; Alexythymia; Addictions - substance, tech, sex, work, spending; Chronic illness / Disability; Identity emergence /explorations (Gender, Sexuality, Neurodivergence); Relationships (QT, ace/aros, kink/BDSM & poly fam constellations); and Professional / vocational wayfinding.
I provide trauma treatment for C-PTSD: Complex developmental trauma (e.g. neglect, poverty); Systemic trauma (e.g. educational, medical, workplace inequity & discrimination); Interpersonal & social trauma (e.g. exclusion, betrayal, exploitation, scapegoating), and gender & sexual trauma (e.g. sexual abuse / coercion, gender identity disavowal).
Ruth-anne Donellsen Âû
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MEd, RCT-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work primarily with Autistic, ADHD, PDA, members of the Queer Community, multiply disabled, chronically ill, and otherwise passionate and interesting adults (18+) who are seeking support in understanding themselves more deeply and navigating life’s challenges and transitions
As a late-identified AuDHD PDAer, queer, single parent, and former homeschooling organic homesteader with roots in punk rock, social justice, and DIY culture. I bring my values of justice and equity, identity-affirming, neurodivergent trauma-informed approach to therapy.
I can be beside you in your autonomous journey through life when things feel isolating.
I work primarily with Autistic, ADHD, PDA, members of the Queer Community, multiply disabled, chronically ill, and otherwise passionate and interesting adults (18+) who are seeking support in understanding themselves more deeply and navigating life’s challenges and transitions
As a late-identified AuDHD PDAer, queer, single parent, and former homeschooling organic homesteader with roots in punk rock, social justice, and DIY culture. I bring my values of justice and equity, identity-affirming, neurodivergent trauma-informed approach to therapy.
I can be beside you in your autonomous journey through life when things feel isolating.
Navigating life with Autism or OCD can feel overwhelming, but the right support can make all the difference.
I use evidence-based approaches, including CBT, trauma-informed care, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapies, to help you develop strategies that build confidence, stability, and peace. I welcome clients of all genders, ages 14 and up, and I am dedicated to creating an inclusive, understanding space where you feel safe and valued.
Navigating life with Autism or OCD can feel overwhelming, but the right support can make all the difference.
I use evidence-based approaches, including CBT, trauma-informed care, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapies, to help you develop strategies that build confidence, stability, and peace. I welcome clients of all genders, ages 14 and up, and I am dedicated to creating an inclusive, understanding space where you feel safe and valued.
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) counsellor offering therapy for Autistic adults and/or adults with ADHD, or who are exploring their possible neurodivergence.
Neurodiversity-affirming counselling can help you learn about how your unique mind works and then use that knowledge to build practical ways of coping with life that are right for you. Please note I cannot assess or diagnose autism or ADHD. You do not need a diagnosis to access therapy with me and I will believe you as the expert in your own experiences.
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) counsellor offering therapy for Autistic adults and/or adults with ADHD, or who are exploring their possible neurodivergence.
Neurodiversity-affirming counselling can help you learn about how your unique mind works and then use that knowledge to build practical ways of coping with life that are right for you. Please note I cannot assess or diagnose autism or ADHD. You do not need a diagnosis to access therapy with me and I will believe you as the expert in your own experiences.
None of us deserve to face life feeling alone. You deserve a safe space where you can feel heard; a place to work through whatever comes your way; and a place to gain tools that you can use to live every day to the fullest. Perhaps you have a child who is learning to work through their emotions, or you are a young person having a hard time at school or at home. Maybe you are a parent looking to find ways to connect with your child(ren) differently than you are now or you're an adult who is about to go through a big life transition and want a listening ear.
None of us deserve to face life feeling alone. You deserve a safe space where you can feel heard; a place to work through whatever comes your way; and a place to gain tools that you can use to live every day to the fullest. Perhaps you have a child who is learning to work through their emotions, or you are a young person having a hard time at school or at home. Maybe you are a parent looking to find ways to connect with your child(ren) differently than you are now or you're an adult who is about to go through a big life transition and want a listening ear.
I also work with teens and adults on the autism spectrum.
Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you overwhelmed by worry, intrusive thoughts, low motivation, or constant fatigue? Struggling to sleep, focus, or cope with stress? You’re not alone—and you’ve found the right therapist. I help clients develop coping skills, set boundaries, regulate emotions, and build a healthier, more balanced life.
I also work with teens and adults on the autism spectrum.
Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you overwhelmed by worry, intrusive thoughts, low motivation, or constant fatigue? Struggling to sleep, focus, or cope with stress? You’re not alone—and you’ve found the right therapist. I help clients develop coping skills, set boundaries, regulate emotions, and build a healthier, more balanced life.
If you have ADHD, Autism, or a combination of both, your therapy needs are different than neurotypical people.
So how do I make therapy inclusive to people with ADHD and autism? A few ways. First, I factor in a neurodivergent-friendly lens when using common therapy techniques and approaches. Second, I give you the option to make sessions as structured and predictable as you like. Third, I lean into one of our commonly-held values - authenticity. No need to mask here.
If you have ADHD, Autism, or a combination of both, your therapy needs are different than neurotypical people.
So how do I make therapy inclusive to people with ADHD and autism? A few ways. First, I factor in a neurodivergent-friendly lens when using common therapy techniques and approaches. Second, I give you the option to make sessions as structured and predictable as you like. Third, I lean into one of our commonly-held values - authenticity. No need to mask here.
Its a New Year with new beginnings. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by grief, anxiety, trauma, identity struggles, or life’s challenges, you don’t have to go through it alone. You may be looking for more than a quick fix, you want a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. A place to explore what’s beneath the surface, reconnect with yourself, and begin moving forward.
Its time to feel heard and respected.
Its a New Year with new beginnings. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by grief, anxiety, trauma, identity struggles, or life’s challenges, you don’t have to go through it alone. You may be looking for more than a quick fix, you want a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. A place to explore what’s beneath the surface, reconnect with yourself, and begin moving forward.
Its time to feel heard and respected.
Additionally, I offer assessments for adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As a certified EMDRIA therapist, I use EMDR to treat complex trauma. Other approaches I use include DBT, CBT, IFS, and CBTE. I specialize in treating issues such as low sexual desire, shame around kink and sexual interests, difficulties with orgasm, erectile issues, and sexual pain. When working with relationships, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Additionally, I offer assessments for adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As a certified EMDRIA therapist, I use EMDR to treat complex trauma. Other approaches I use include DBT, CBT, IFS, and CBTE. I specialize in treating issues such as low sexual desire, shame around kink and sexual interests, difficulties with orgasm, erectile issues, and sexual pain. When working with relationships, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are you a queer, trans, or neurodivergent person dealing with the hurt of discrimination, rejection, or the feeling that folks around you just don’t understand?
As a queer, trans, and neurodivergent therapist, I understand how hard it can be to find a therapist who understands what members of our communities go through. Instead of trying to change your authentic self to fit societal norms, we can work towards your individual goals, whatever your goals may be!
Are you a queer, trans, or neurodivergent person dealing with the hurt of discrimination, rejection, or the feeling that folks around you just don’t understand?
As a queer, trans, and neurodivergent therapist, I understand how hard it can be to find a therapist who understands what members of our communities go through. Instead of trying to change your authentic self to fit societal norms, we can work towards your individual goals, whatever your goals may be!
I have a special interest in adults and teens who are exploring their autistic identity, or anyone identifying as neurodivergent, but I also take allistic clients.
My approach is client-centered and eclectic, using strategies from various evidence based models. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life, and my role as a therapist is to help them tap into their own strengths and resources to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
I have a special interest in adults and teens who are exploring their autistic identity, or anyone identifying as neurodivergent, but I also take allistic clients.
My approach is client-centered and eclectic, using strategies from various evidence based models. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life, and my role as a therapist is to help them tap into their own strengths and resources to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
I work with children, teens, and adults and whether you are neurodivergent or neurotypical, my approach is grounded in curiosity, compassion, and respect for your unique experiences.
With a human-centered approach and tools like CBT, mindfulness, and narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy, we’ll work together to create a path toward greater fulfillment. I specialize in supporting children and young adults, especially those facing challenges like school refusal or ADHD. Couples feeling disconnected. Teachers feeling burn out.
I work with children, teens, and adults and whether you are neurodivergent or neurotypical, my approach is grounded in curiosity, compassion, and respect for your unique experiences.
With a human-centered approach and tools like CBT, mindfulness, and narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy, we’ll work together to create a path toward greater fulfillment. I specialize in supporting children and young adults, especially those facing challenges like school refusal or ADHD. Couples feeling disconnected. Teachers feeling burn out.
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Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Halifax
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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.