Autism Therapists in Toronto, ON
I am also passionate about working with folks on the autism spectrum as well as those who struggle with chronic and terminal illnesses.
When working with clients I use a client-centered, non-judgemental approach to create a safe space for my clients to discuss their concerns. I collaborate with clients to identify treatment goals and use evidence-based treatment approaches to help clients achieve their goals and build a meaningful life worth living.
I am also passionate about working with folks on the autism spectrum as well as those who struggle with chronic and terminal illnesses.
When working with clients I use a client-centered, non-judgemental approach to create a safe space for my clients to discuss their concerns. I collaborate with clients to identify treatment goals and use evidence-based treatment approaches to help clients achieve their goals and build a meaningful life worth living.
I particularly enjoy supporting clients in exploring and understanding neurodivergence like autism and ADHD.
If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from others, therapy can be an important step towards change and healing. It can help you understand your needs, process difficult experiences, let go of harsh-self criticism, develop new coping strategies, and rediscover what’s truly important to you. I especially love helping clients reconnect with who they are under all of the masks they’ve been wearing for others, and supporting them in understanding and working towards their own unique vision for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
I particularly enjoy supporting clients in exploring and understanding neurodivergence like autism and ADHD.
If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from others, therapy can be an important step towards change and healing. It can help you understand your needs, process difficult experiences, let go of harsh-self criticism, develop new coping strategies, and rediscover what’s truly important to you. I especially love helping clients reconnect with who they are under all of the masks they’ve been wearing for others, and supporting them in understanding and working towards their own unique vision for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and selective mutism, autism, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder), relational and parent/child attachment disorders, gender and identity issues, and emotion dysregulation challenges - among many other things!
Hi, I'm Dr. Sharon Chan, a Clinical Psychologist registered in Ontario to provide services to children, adolescents, families, and adults. I'm excited to be part of the MindFit team, a leading 30+ clinician private practice, or what I prefer to call a "mental health gym". Seeking support can be stigmatizing and impersonal - but it doesn't need to be! Just like a typical gym, MindFit is designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. I use effective, evidence-based treatments and most importantly, do everything I can to ensure you feel supported, accepted, and valued.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and selective mutism, autism, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder), relational and parent/child attachment disorders, gender and identity issues, and emotion dysregulation challenges - among many other things!
Hi, I'm Dr. Sharon Chan, a Clinical Psychologist registered in Ontario to provide services to children, adolescents, families, and adults. I'm excited to be part of the MindFit team, a leading 30+ clinician private practice, or what I prefer to call a "mental health gym". Seeking support can be stigmatizing and impersonal - but it doesn't need to be! Just like a typical gym, MindFit is designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. I use effective, evidence-based treatments and most importantly, do everything I can to ensure you feel supported, accepted, and valued.
I offer individual therapy, couple therapy, sex therapy and assessment services (including in-depth ADHD and autism assessments).
My approach is informal, playful and relational. I will bring my own unmasked humanity and quirkiness into our work in the hopes of creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I tend to work best with those who are ready to move away from prescriptive formulas or one-size-fits-all approaches and are looking to engage in medium- to long-term word.
I offer individual therapy, couple therapy, sex therapy and assessment services (including in-depth ADHD and autism assessments).
My approach is informal, playful and relational. I will bring my own unmasked humanity and quirkiness into our work in the hopes of creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I tend to work best with those who are ready to move away from prescriptive formulas or one-size-fits-all approaches and are looking to engage in medium- to long-term word.
Are you a queer and/or neurodivergent individual looking for a therapist who is affirming and supportive?
Everyone brings their own knowledge and experience into the therapeutic space, and I believe that my role as your therapist is to act as your partner and guide; you are the expert in your own life, not me! I will endeavour to prioritize your knowledge and goals while providing you with a safe space to explore the various stories that make up your identity.
Are you a queer and/or neurodivergent individual looking for a therapist who is affirming and supportive?
Everyone brings their own knowledge and experience into the therapeutic space, and I believe that my role as your therapist is to act as your partner and guide; you are the expert in your own life, not me! I will endeavour to prioritize your knowledge and goals while providing you with a safe space to explore the various stories that make up your identity.
Possibilities Clinic offers a unique team approach on all diagnostic assessments and treatment plans which includes ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Tourette Syndrome/Tic Disorder, OCD, Autism and Early Language & Social Development.
Our multidisciplinary team of clinicians from psychiatry, psychology, psychometry, paediatrics, family medicine, social work, speech-language pathology, and occupational therapy strives to achieve the highest standards of diagnosis and care. We focus on specific neurodevelopmental conditions, working together to address complexity & promote positive change.
Possibilities Clinic offers a unique team approach on all diagnostic assessments and treatment plans which includes ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Tourette Syndrome/Tic Disorder, OCD, Autism and Early Language & Social Development.
Our multidisciplinary team of clinicians from psychiatry, psychology, psychometry, paediatrics, family medicine, social work, speech-language pathology, and occupational therapy strives to achieve the highest standards of diagnosis and care. We focus on specific neurodevelopmental conditions, working together to address complexity & promote positive change.
I know from experience that growing up neurodivergent can often be traumatic, and made even harder when you are undiagnosed, unsupported, or experiencing gender or race-based discrimination.
I specialize in working with ADHD and/or autistic 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults, and those with lived experiences of discrimination, chronic illness/pain, childhood and complex trauma, OCD, PTSD/C-PTSD, and anxiety. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment therapy, parts work, and trauma-informed, psychodynamic, narrative, and mindfulness-based modalities.
I know from experience that growing up neurodivergent can often be traumatic, and made even harder when you are undiagnosed, unsupported, or experiencing gender or race-based discrimination.
I specialize in working with ADHD and/or autistic 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults, and those with lived experiences of discrimination, chronic illness/pain, childhood and complex trauma, OCD, PTSD/C-PTSD, and anxiety. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment therapy, parts work, and trauma-informed, psychodynamic, narrative, and mindfulness-based modalities.
My research & practice focus primarily on autism, ADHD, dual diagnosis, anxiety, stress, education, employment, & relationships.
With 15+ years of postsecondary training across 5 degrees, I bring passion & expertise in helping clients navigate challenges & live in alignment with their strengths & values. Backed by 40+ publications & 50 presentations on neurodiversity & mental health, I remain active in research, hospital, & counselling settings nationwide to deliver personalized care.
My research & practice focus primarily on autism, ADHD, dual diagnosis, anxiety, stress, education, employment, & relationships.
With 15+ years of postsecondary training across 5 degrees, I bring passion & expertise in helping clients navigate challenges & live in alignment with their strengths & values. Backed by 40+ publications & 50 presentations on neurodiversity & mental health, I remain active in research, hospital, & counselling settings nationwide to deliver personalized care.
Are you an adult recently diagnosed with ASD 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.
Are you an adult recently diagnosed with ASD 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.
I support young people and adults with anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, as well as new and expecting parents, and families with a child diagnosed with autism or other childhood disability.
Life transitions can leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed. Becoming a new parent, navigating new relationships and family dynamics, receiving a life changing diagnosis, attending a new school, entering a new life stage, career change, relocation, or experiencing loss can bring up many challenging emotions such as loneliness, fear, grief, anxiety, and depression. It can be hard to appreciate life’s finer moments when we are overwhelmed by our emotions, thoughts, and others' perceptions and expectations of us. These feelings can affect the way we live, learn, parent, maintain relationships, and function in our every day lives.
I support young people and adults with anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, as well as new and expecting parents, and families with a child diagnosed with autism or other childhood disability.
Life transitions can leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed. Becoming a new parent, navigating new relationships and family dynamics, receiving a life changing diagnosis, attending a new school, entering a new life stage, career change, relocation, or experiencing loss can bring up many challenging emotions such as loneliness, fear, grief, anxiety, and depression. It can be hard to appreciate life’s finer moments when we are overwhelmed by our emotions, thoughts, and others' perceptions and expectations of us. These feelings can affect the way we live, learn, parent, maintain relationships, and function in our every day lives.
Joseph Djura Smith - Autism, ADHD, & OCD
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, ASDCS, ADHD-CP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a neurodivergent person you may have tried your best to navigate society’s expectations that do not fully accommodate Autism, ADHD, and OCD.
I want to help you uncover your hidden strengths, embrace your neurodivergent identity as valuable in its own right, and support you in living a fulfilling life. Together, we will collaboratively develop strategies to enhance emotion regulation, manage sensory overload, build self-advocacy skills, and help you feel more connected to yourself and others.
As a neurodivergent person you may have tried your best to navigate society’s expectations that do not fully accommodate Autism, ADHD, and OCD.
I want to help you uncover your hidden strengths, embrace your neurodivergent identity as valuable in its own right, and support you in living a fulfilling life. Together, we will collaboratively develop strategies to enhance emotion regulation, manage sensory overload, build self-advocacy skills, and help you feel more connected to yourself and others.
ADHD OT and Mental Health Services-The ADHD
Occupational Therapist, MScOT, HBSc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Mary (she/her) and I am an Occupational Therapist accepting new clients. :)
As an OT, my approach focuses on supporting clients with daily tasks such as work or school engagement, implementing and maintaining routines, completing household chores, managing burnout, strengthening relationships and more. I also support with accommodations and finding strategies that support your energy needs and unique abilities. I use a neurodiversity-affirming approach tailored to your strengths and individual life experiences.
Hi, my name is Mary (she/her) and I am an Occupational Therapist accepting new clients. :)
As an OT, my approach focuses on supporting clients with daily tasks such as work or school engagement, implementing and maintaining routines, completing household chores, managing burnout, strengthening relationships and more. I also support with accommodations and finding strategies that support your energy needs and unique abilities. I use a neurodiversity-affirming approach tailored to your strengths and individual life experiences.
You suspect or know you are ADHD/ Autistic or both; are unsure about therapy.
I love working with couples, specially trans, queer, ENM or Poly. I have decades of experience with CPTSD, fear, anxiety and 2SLGBTQA+ journeys. I do Psychedelics integration & support Substances Harm Reduction and recovery, and integrate IFS and EFT. I work online and i person in Parkdale.
You suspect or know you are ADHD/ Autistic or both; are unsure about therapy.
I love working with couples, specially trans, queer, ENM or Poly. I have decades of experience with CPTSD, fear, anxiety and 2SLGBTQA+ journeys. I do Psychedelics integration & support Substances Harm Reduction and recovery, and integrate IFS and EFT. I work online and i person in Parkdale.
Being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world comes with challenges.
Scattergram Associates provide individual, couple, family, and group therapy for neurodivergent youth (12+) and adults and their loved ones. We regularly offer ACCEPT psychoeducational support groups for neurodivergent adults>30 and youth in grades 7 to 12 (The ND Room).
Being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world comes with challenges.
Scattergram Associates provide individual, couple, family, and group therapy for neurodivergent youth (12+) and adults and their loved ones. We regularly offer ACCEPT psychoeducational support groups for neurodivergent adults>30 and youth in grades 7 to 12 (The ND Room).
As a Social Work counsellor who is autistic, queer and transgender, I know what that feels like and I can help!
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming, integrating practices that feel right for you. Alongside talk therapy, I use body-based and creative techniques that support emotional regulation and encourage building body awareness. Together, we can tailor your coping strategies to navigate internal and external hurdles.
As a Social Work counsellor who is autistic, queer and transgender, I know what that feels like and I can help!
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming, integrating practices that feel right for you. Alongside talk therapy, I use body-based and creative techniques that support emotional regulation and encourage building body awareness. Together, we can tailor your coping strategies to navigate internal and external hurdles.
I have particular experience supporting neurodivergent folks who may be experiencing mental health challenges related to ADHD, ASD, and OCD such as burnout, substance use, anxiety and depression, school avoidance, feelings of isolation, relationship challenges, overwhelm, and family conflict.
I use an integrative approach, drawing on elements from a variety of modalities to ensure our sessions will be tailored to fit your needs. My practice is guided by being client-centered, trauma-informed, feminist, and anti-oppressive.
I have particular experience supporting neurodivergent folks who may be experiencing mental health challenges related to ADHD, ASD, and OCD such as burnout, substance use, anxiety and depression, school avoidance, feelings of isolation, relationship challenges, overwhelm, and family conflict.
I use an integrative approach, drawing on elements from a variety of modalities to ensure our sessions will be tailored to fit your needs. My practice is guided by being client-centered, trauma-informed, feminist, and anti-oppressive.
Jessie Van Esch | LGBTQ | Trauma | Neurodiversity
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ, Intern
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our work together is as diverse and unique as my clients, and is always grounded in a trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming stance.
Are you a 25-35 year old, type-A, high-achieving, anxiety prone human with diagnosed or suspected ADHD, a strained relationship with your mom, who people pleases and can never turn their brain off? You've been told you're "too sensitive" or "too much" or "too needy", and you learned to shut your emotions down just to function in this busy society. You're on an emotional rollercoaster, and you've TRIED to feel better: meditation, self-help, breathwork, exercise, therapy tiktoks and journaling...but nothing seems to stick for long. You're really ready and eager to make a change in your mental health, even if nothing else has worked
Our work together is as diverse and unique as my clients, and is always grounded in a trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming stance.
Are you a 25-35 year old, type-A, high-achieving, anxiety prone human with diagnosed or suspected ADHD, a strained relationship with your mom, who people pleases and can never turn their brain off? You've been told you're "too sensitive" or "too much" or "too needy", and you learned to shut your emotions down just to function in this busy society. You're on an emotional rollercoaster, and you've TRIED to feel better: meditation, self-help, breathwork, exercise, therapy tiktoks and journaling...but nothing seems to stick for long. You're really ready and eager to make a change in your mental health, even if nothing else has worked
Hi, and welcome. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to offer support, understanding, and a safe space where you can truly be yourself. My goal is for you to feel heard, valued, and empowered as we navigate the challenges you’re facing.
Hi, and welcome. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to offer support, understanding, and a safe space where you can truly be yourself. My goal is for you to feel heard, valued, and empowered as we navigate the challenges you’re facing.
As a neurodivergent person with ADHD myself, I know some of the difficulties you may face.
I help clients learn to understand themselves and achieve their goals. I have 5+ years of experience working with ADHD & Autism in children, teenagers, adults, seniors, families and couples. I also offer clinical supervision for clinicians who want to work with neurodivergence, or are neurodivergent themselves
As a neurodivergent person with ADHD myself, I know some of the difficulties you may face.
I help clients learn to understand themselves and achieve their goals. I have 5+ years of experience working with ADHD & Autism in children, teenagers, adults, seniors, families and couples. I also offer clinical supervision for clinicians who want to work with neurodivergence, or are neurodivergent themselves
Natalia Prates - ADHD and Autism
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you have ADHD and/or autism and have been dealing with anxiety, depression, executive dysfunction, low self-esteem, or burnout, know that you are not alone.
As a therapist with ADHD and autism, I bring a unique perspective to my practice. I have learned how to adapt different therapeutic modalities to neurodivergent individuals. Additionally, I have trained in sensory processing, PTSD in autistic individuals, and autistic burnout. Processing the challenges that come with ableism is also significant in my work.
If you have ADHD and/or autism and have been dealing with anxiety, depression, executive dysfunction, low self-esteem, or burnout, know that you are not alone.
As a therapist with ADHD and autism, I bring a unique perspective to my practice. I have learned how to adapt different therapeutic modalities to neurodivergent individuals. Additionally, I have trained in sensory processing, PTSD in autistic individuals, and autistic burnout. Processing the challenges that come with ableism is also significant in my work.
See more therapy options for Toronto
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Toronto
- Aurora
- East York
- Etobicoke
- Maple
- Markham
- Mississauga
- North York
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Vaughan
- Woodbridge
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.