Autism Therapists in Kitchener, ON
Willow Creek Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're navigating the unique challenges related to ADHD or Autism, you might also feel misunderstood or frustrated with the world's expectations.
Together, we’ll create a space where you feel safe to explore your experiences, learn to better manage unhelpful patterns, and build self-compassion. Our approach is warm, affirming, and collaborative. We integrate evidence-based practices to help you reconnect with your values, embrace your strengths, and find new ways to cope with life's challenges.
If you're navigating the unique challenges related to ADHD or Autism, you might also feel misunderstood or frustrated with the world's expectations.
Together, we’ll create a space where you feel safe to explore your experiences, learn to better manage unhelpful patterns, and build self-compassion. Our approach is warm, affirming, and collaborative. We integrate evidence-based practices to help you reconnect with your values, embrace your strengths, and find new ways to cope with life's challenges.
Autism and ADHD are widely misunderstood and I can help with understanding.
I offer neurodivergent affirming care, 2SLGBTQ+ identified individuals and family support, and work with trauma from the lens of processing grief and loss. I offer psychoeducation and draw from attachment and polyvagal theory. Additionally, the social theory of disability and queer theory practice of questioning what is normal guides my therapeutic approach.
Autism and ADHD are widely misunderstood and I can help with understanding.
I offer neurodivergent affirming care, 2SLGBTQ+ identified individuals and family support, and work with trauma from the lens of processing grief and loss. I offer psychoeducation and draw from attachment and polyvagal theory. Additionally, the social theory of disability and queer theory practice of questioning what is normal guides my therapeutic approach.
My practice focuses on adults who are themselves living with high functioning autism and/or HSP and/or ADHD.
Exploration during the sessions leads to increased understanding and the development of practical strategies which may facilitate communication, productivity and an increased sense of well being. Instead of endeavoring to “treat or fix” ASD or ADHD, the priority is on getting to know oneself better, leveraging strengths and optimizing quality of life.
My practice focuses on adults who are themselves living with high functioning autism and/or HSP and/or ADHD.
Exploration during the sessions leads to increased understanding and the development of practical strategies which may facilitate communication, productivity and an increased sense of well being. Instead of endeavoring to “treat or fix” ASD or ADHD, the priority is on getting to know oneself better, leveraging strengths and optimizing quality of life.
Hayley Ratcliffe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I typically find myself working with younger people who struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, and BPD.
My work centers on meeting each client's needs with a lighthearted, humorous approach. As a Gen Z therapist, I help clients make progress and understand what change means for them. I use a DBT and ACT-informed approach, combined with insights into psychological development, attachment, and somatics, to create tools that improve their lives. My background in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies gives me an intersectional feminist lens for working with diverse groups. If you feel stuck in your past and want to move towards being present in the now I may be able to help.
I typically find myself working with younger people who struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, and BPD.
My work centers on meeting each client's needs with a lighthearted, humorous approach. As a Gen Z therapist, I help clients make progress and understand what change means for them. I use a DBT and ACT-informed approach, combined with insights into psychological development, attachment, and somatics, to create tools that improve their lives. My background in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies gives me an intersectional feminist lens for working with diverse groups. If you feel stuck in your past and want to move towards being present in the now I may be able to help.
Early identification of developmental delays and autism can assist in obtaining services as early as possible.
Understanding strengths and weakness is important for success. I believe in a strength based approach and understanding how areas of strength can be applied to areas of weakness. Through the use of assessment tools a learning or strength profile can be understood more effectively and when in school shared with educators and school personnel. Effective learning strategies can assist with individuals of all ages achieve goals.
Early identification of developmental delays and autism can assist in obtaining services as early as possible.
Understanding strengths and weakness is important for success. I believe in a strength based approach and understanding how areas of strength can be applied to areas of weakness. Through the use of assessment tools a learning or strength profile can be understood more effectively and when in school shared with educators and school personnel. Effective learning strategies can assist with individuals of all ages achieve goals.
I help neurodivergent ( autism, ADHD), queer, immigrant, and minority clients build their self-esteem and cultivate meaningful relationships.
Therapy is the time to finally look past the shame and other people’s expectations. Reconnect with your values and internalize a new message that your strength lies in what makes you different. Explore your thoughts and behaviors to break free from the patterns and relationships that no longer serve you.
I help neurodivergent ( autism, ADHD), queer, immigrant, and minority clients build their self-esteem and cultivate meaningful relationships.
Therapy is the time to finally look past the shame and other people’s expectations. Reconnect with your values and internalize a new message that your strength lies in what makes you different. Explore your thoughts and behaviors to break free from the patterns and relationships that no longer serve you.
I have training and experience in working with adolescents, individuals who are on the autism spectrum, individuals with ADHD, and people with special needs as well as their families and caregivers.
Combining traditional talk therapy with elements of solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and drawing on the natural world and his specialty of Animal Assisted Therapy, Josh tailors each session to meet the client's unique needs and goals.
I have training and experience in working with adolescents, individuals who are on the autism spectrum, individuals with ADHD, and people with special needs as well as their families and caregivers.
Combining traditional talk therapy with elements of solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and drawing on the natural world and his specialty of Animal Assisted Therapy, Josh tailors each session to meet the client's unique needs and goals.
Meghan Clemmer
Registered Social Service Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I provide individual counselling support to children, youth and young adults ages 5 to 30, as well as their parents, and have experience supporting with a range of challenges including anxiety, attachment and behavioural issues, mood and self-esteem challenges, autism, and emotion dysregulation.
I utilize various techniques from Dialectical Behavioural (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Solution-Focused and attachment therapies, to encourage the ability to be present in the moment, develop healthy ways to manage and cope with daily life stressors and improve relationships, while working from a client centered, strengths-based approach.
I provide individual counselling support to children, youth and young adults ages 5 to 30, as well as their parents, and have experience supporting with a range of challenges including anxiety, attachment and behavioural issues, mood and self-esteem challenges, autism, and emotion dysregulation.
I utilize various techniques from Dialectical Behavioural (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Solution-Focused and attachment therapies, to encourage the ability to be present in the moment, develop healthy ways to manage and cope with daily life stressors and improve relationships, while working from a client centered, strengths-based approach.
Street Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP, (CRPO), CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Street Therapists have a deep understanding of Neurodiversity, and specialize in seeing clients with Attention- Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Executive Functioning Difficulties.
Operating for 16+ years, Street Therapy is a group practice, providing mental health services for clients across the lifespan. Our clinicians come from diverse academic, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds, practicing within neurodiversity and anti-oppressive frameworks. We strive to provide a safe space for clinicians and clients alike to explore and engage in collaborative, and respectful, psychotherapeutic relationships. Bernadette Street, clinical supervisor and director of Street Therapy, has over 15 years of experience working with children, youth and adults. Her expertise informs the work of our team.
Street Therapists have a deep understanding of Neurodiversity, and specialize in seeing clients with Attention- Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Executive Functioning Difficulties.
Operating for 16+ years, Street Therapy is a group practice, providing mental health services for clients across the lifespan. Our clinicians come from diverse academic, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds, practicing within neurodiversity and anti-oppressive frameworks. We strive to provide a safe space for clinicians and clients alike to explore and engage in collaborative, and respectful, psychotherapeutic relationships. Bernadette Street, clinical supervisor and director of Street Therapy, has over 15 years of experience working with children, youth and adults. Her expertise informs the work of our team.
Kayla Holliday
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
I have also worked with members of the LGBTQ community, Indigenous folks, those with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and more.
I became a Social Worker because of this intrinsic desire to walk alongside people through their pain and into their growth. As I’ve continued my own growth, both personally and professionally, I have developed a deep passion for working with folks across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 90, as they work towards healing and peace. I have worked with folks with various neurotypes, substance use and addiction, those experiencing housing insecurity and poverty, intimate partner violence/domestic violence, trauma and attachment challenges, self-esteem, emotion regulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation/suicidality, Dementia, and TBI/ABIs.
I have also worked with members of the LGBTQ community, Indigenous folks, those with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and more.
I became a Social Worker because of this intrinsic desire to walk alongside people through their pain and into their growth. As I’ve continued my own growth, both personally and professionally, I have developed a deep passion for working with folks across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 90, as they work towards healing and peace. I have worked with folks with various neurotypes, substance use and addiction, those experiencing housing insecurity and poverty, intimate partner violence/domestic violence, trauma and attachment challenges, self-esteem, emotion regulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation/suicidality, Dementia, and TBI/ABIs.
Madeleine Satov
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BAS, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2B
Madeleine has an extensive background in helping professions, with experience facilitating rehabilitation therapy for adults with neurodegenerative diseases, applied behavioural analysis for individuals on the Autism spectrum, and in long-term care facilities.
Using an integrative theoretical approach, Madeleine provides client-centred, personalized care through a trauma-informed lens. Madeleine’s goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space, ensuring that her clients feel respected and empowered.
Madeleine has an extensive background in helping professions, with experience facilitating rehabilitation therapy for adults with neurodegenerative diseases, applied behavioural analysis for individuals on the Autism spectrum, and in long-term care facilities.
Using an integrative theoretical approach, Madeleine provides client-centred, personalized care through a trauma-informed lens. Madeleine’s goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space, ensuring that her clients feel respected and empowered.
Meet Our Autism Counsellors
I have years of experience supporting children, youth and families with mental health diagnosis (ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Trauma) and related social, emotional and behavioural challenges.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and how you want to be living your life? Is it hard to find the motivation to do the things you know you should do? Do you wake up in the morning wondering what your purpose is or start your day with a sense of dread? Is your life not going the way you thought it would? Have you been through a traumatic event and are finding it hard to get back into the groove of things? Do you lack fulfillment in close relationships in your life? Do you wonder how you got here and if things could be better?
I have years of experience supporting children, youth and families with mental health diagnosis (ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Trauma) and related social, emotional and behavioural challenges.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and how you want to be living your life? Is it hard to find the motivation to do the things you know you should do? Do you wake up in the morning wondering what your purpose is or start your day with a sense of dread? Is your life not going the way you thought it would? Have you been through a traumatic event and are finding it hard to get back into the groove of things? Do you lack fulfillment in close relationships in your life? Do you wonder how you got here and if things could be better?
Lauren Hird (she/her) | Autism & ADHD Counselling
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a fellow complex human with ADHD and Autism, I frequently support diagnosed and self-realized neurodivergent folks.
Regardless of the challenges that bring you to counselling, I want you to know that you aren't broken and you don't need to be fixed. You are a complex human and there are parts of you that may need more support and more compassion. Together we will create a space to hold whatever parts YOU feel need your time, gentle curiosity, attention and care. I work with teens, parents and adults through a relational, trauma-informed, neurodivergent affirming, and anti-oppressive lens. My approach is eclectic, working from a variety of modalities, techniques and frameworks, to ensure your sessions honour your autonomy and your unique needs.
As a fellow complex human with ADHD and Autism, I frequently support diagnosed and self-realized neurodivergent folks.
Regardless of the challenges that bring you to counselling, I want you to know that you aren't broken and you don't need to be fixed. You are a complex human and there are parts of you that may need more support and more compassion. Together we will create a space to hold whatever parts YOU feel need your time, gentle curiosity, attention and care. I work with teens, parents and adults through a relational, trauma-informed, neurodivergent affirming, and anti-oppressive lens. My approach is eclectic, working from a variety of modalities, techniques and frameworks, to ensure your sessions honour your autonomy and your unique needs.
My areas of expertise include Autism Spectrum Disorders and related learning differences.
Through a strengths-based and client-centered approach, I help individuals use their unique strengths to learn effective coping and stress management skills, improve social functioning, promote adaptive coping, and live life to the fullest. Research-informed approaches include CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, The Gottman Method to couple therapy, and Mindfulness.
My areas of expertise include Autism Spectrum Disorders and related learning differences.
Through a strengths-based and client-centered approach, I help individuals use their unique strengths to learn effective coping and stress management skills, improve social functioning, promote adaptive coping, and live life to the fullest. Research-informed approaches include CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, The Gottman Method to couple therapy, and Mindfulness.
Caroline Miege Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP)Certified Autism Spectrum specialist, Certified Grief Informed (CGP).
I bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling. I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental. I have specialized training in Trauma/PTSD treatment, ADHD, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Based CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR.
ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP)Certified Autism Spectrum specialist, Certified Grief Informed (CGP).
I bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling. I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental. I have specialized training in Trauma/PTSD treatment, ADHD, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Based CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR.
Whenever relevant in my work, I integrate my experiences working with children and adults with special needs, including Autism-Spectrum Disorder and ADHD, using techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, and behaviour-based approaches.
Feeling trapped by anxious or obsessive thoughts, consumed by negative self-talk, and having these thoughts interfere with your relationships can lead to a vicious cycle of shame and emotional pain. This is a cycle that I know. Through the lens of attachment theory, exploring attachment wounds and patterns becomes a powerful tool for developing secure and supportive relationships, both within ourselves and with others.
Whenever relevant in my work, I integrate my experiences working with children and adults with special needs, including Autism-Spectrum Disorder and ADHD, using techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, and behaviour-based approaches.
Feeling trapped by anxious or obsessive thoughts, consumed by negative self-talk, and having these thoughts interfere with your relationships can lead to a vicious cycle of shame and emotional pain. This is a cycle that I know. Through the lens of attachment theory, exploring attachment wounds and patterns becomes a powerful tool for developing secure and supportive relationships, both within ourselves and with others.
Anna Riddell @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective 🌈
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a special interest in working with folks who identify as neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, ADD, Learning Disabilities, etc.
Hey, I’m Anna (she/her), and it's nice to virtually meet you! As a therapist at Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective, I'm passionate about supporting couples struggling with communication, infidelity, intimacy, blended families and/or parenting, I’m here to support you and your partner(s) with healing, growing and repairing your connection. I work with monogamous and poly-amorous folks, of all sexualities and genders. I also support individual pre-teens, teens & adults with many different concerns, including issues with anxiety, depression, overwhelm, life transitions, etc.
I have a special interest in working with folks who identify as neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, ADD, Learning Disabilities, etc.
Hey, I’m Anna (she/her), and it's nice to virtually meet you! As a therapist at Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective, I'm passionate about supporting couples struggling with communication, infidelity, intimacy, blended families and/or parenting, I’m here to support you and your partner(s) with healing, growing and repairing your connection. I work with monogamous and poly-amorous folks, of all sexualities and genders. I also support individual pre-teens, teens & adults with many different concerns, including issues with anxiety, depression, overwhelm, life transitions, etc.
In 8 years of social work practice, I have been privileged to spend most of my time with children and youth and people with developmental disabilities such as ADHD, Autism and a variety of mental health challenges.
Child and Youth Counsellor. Are you the parent of a youth that wants a second set of eyes and ears while working through those difficult early, pre-teen, or teen years? We all hope our children are continuing to develop skills and reach milestones but we also all face roadblocks and challenges along the way. Early intervention is the best advantage you can give your child and Angela is here for exactly that!
In 8 years of social work practice, I have been privileged to spend most of my time with children and youth and people with developmental disabilities such as ADHD, Autism and a variety of mental health challenges.
Child and Youth Counsellor. Are you the parent of a youth that wants a second set of eyes and ears while working through those difficult early, pre-teen, or teen years? We all hope our children are continuing to develop skills and reach milestones but we also all face roadblocks and challenges along the way. Early intervention is the best advantage you can give your child and Angela is here for exactly that!
I specialize in supporting children (9+), youth, adults, and their families in navigating challenges associated with neurodivergence, including Autism and ADHD, as well as complex mental health issues like depression and anxiety, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Through a collaborative and process-oriented approach, I offer a non-judgemental and safe space for clients to express themselves authentically, to feel understood and explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I integrate evidence-based modalities such as ACT, DBT & CBT to help clients understand themselves and develop psychological well-being.
I specialize in supporting children (9+), youth, adults, and their families in navigating challenges associated with neurodivergence, including Autism and ADHD, as well as complex mental health issues like depression and anxiety, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Through a collaborative and process-oriented approach, I offer a non-judgemental and safe space for clients to express themselves authentically, to feel understood and explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I integrate evidence-based modalities such as ACT, DBT & CBT to help clients understand themselves and develop psychological well-being.
Kristie Brassard @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective 🌈
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have ample experience working with a variety of concerns like self-esteem, anxiety, career development, burnout, identity exploration, relationships, ADHD/ Autism, personal growth, numbing behaviours, shame, etc.
Hey, I’m Kristie- It’s great to virtually meet you! I’m an experienced therapist who is compassionate, genuine and shows up authentically for my clients. I love working with both individuals and couples (monogamous, poly and open) of all genders and sexualities, as well as other health professionals. I offer space for you to understand yourself more deeply, heal emotional wounds and embrace a sense of grace and compassion for yourself and others.
I have ample experience working with a variety of concerns like self-esteem, anxiety, career development, burnout, identity exploration, relationships, ADHD/ Autism, personal growth, numbing behaviours, shame, etc.
Hey, I’m Kristie- It’s great to virtually meet you! I’m an experienced therapist who is compassionate, genuine and shows up authentically for my clients. I love working with both individuals and couples (monogamous, poly and open) of all genders and sexualities, as well as other health professionals. I offer space for you to understand yourself more deeply, heal emotional wounds and embrace a sense of grace and compassion for yourself and others.
See more therapy options for Kitchener
Autism Counsellors
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.