Autism Psychiatrists in Michigan

Photo of Melissa Hendriks - Melissa Hendriks, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Melissa Hendriks, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Plymouth, MI 48170
I specialize in the care of children, teens, and young adults with mental health concerns including ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, and stress.
I hold a Bachelor's and Master's degree from Michigan State University. I completed medical school at Wayne State University School of Medicine, followed by residency in Psychiatry at Henry Ford Health System and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Michigan.
I specialize in the care of children, teens, and young adults with mental health concerns including ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, and stress.
I hold a Bachelor's and Master's degree from Michigan State University. I completed medical school at Wayne State University School of Medicine, followed by residency in Psychiatry at Henry Ford Health System and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Michigan.
(734) 619-6960 View (734) 619-6960
Photo of Marisa Zenas, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Marisa Zenas
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
My name is Marisa and I am a physician assistant with extensive experience in psychiatry. I hold a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Psychiatry and specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual’s needs, focusing on conditions like mood disorders, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and more. At Huron River Psychiatry, I’m committed to providing supportive care that empowers you or your child to achieve better mental health.
My name is Marisa and I am a physician assistant with extensive experience in psychiatry. I hold a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Psychiatry and specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual’s needs, focusing on conditions like mood disorders, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and more. At Huron River Psychiatry, I’m committed to providing supportive care that empowers you or your child to achieve better mental health.
(734) 780-7080 View (734) 780-7080
Photo of Arielle Stone, Psychiatrist, MD
Arielle Stone
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. I provide full psychiatric services, including evaluation, consultation, and treatment using evidence-based approaches. Conditions treated include: Mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, abuse and attachment issues and trauma.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. I provide full psychiatric services, including evaluation, consultation, and treatment using evidence-based approaches. Conditions treated include: Mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, abuse and attachment issues and trauma.
(586) 204-1536 View (586) 204-1536
Photo of Jessica M Knapp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Jessica M Knapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Saline, MI 48176
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in medication management and collaborative care for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related issues, autism, and more.
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or misunderstood—struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, trauma, or attention difficulties. Some are new to treatment, while others have tried different approaches without finding relief. The desire for clarity, stability, and a renewed sense of control often drives the decision to seek care. Goals may include improving mood, daily functioning, and relationships, or simply finding space to breathe without emotional exhaustion. Above all, the need to be heard, supported, and genuinely understood is at the heart of the healing process.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in medication management and collaborative care for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related issues, autism, and more.
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or misunderstood—struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, trauma, or attention difficulties. Some are new to treatment, while others have tried different approaches without finding relief. The desire for clarity, stability, and a renewed sense of control often drives the decision to seek care. Goals may include improving mood, daily functioning, and relationships, or simply finding space to breathe without emotional exhaustion. Above all, the need to be heard, supported, and genuinely understood is at the heart of the healing process.
(734) 984-5763 View (734) 984-5763
Photo of Mauran Sivananthan - Mauran Sivananthan, DO, PLLC, Psychiatrist, DO
Mauran Sivananthan, DO, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I am a dual board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, and I specialize in treating a range of disorders including ADHD, behavioral problems, anxiety, Autism, intellectual disabilities, men's health, and mental health issues in athletes.
I completed my Psychiatry residency at Case Western University and my fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at University of Michigan. I am currently an Associate Professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. I am also the associate program director for the Henry Ford Psychiatry program.
I am a dual board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, and I specialize in treating a range of disorders including ADHD, behavioral problems, anxiety, Autism, intellectual disabilities, men's health, and mental health issues in athletes.
I completed my Psychiatry residency at Case Western University and my fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at University of Michigan. I am currently an Associate Professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. I am also the associate program director for the Henry Ford Psychiatry program.
(734) 428-3660 View (734) 428-3660
Photo of Stephen Colon M D, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Colon M D
Psychiatrist, MD
9 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I also specialize in working with neurodiverse adults including ADHD & ASD ( Autism Spectrum / Asperger's).
I completed medical school & Psychiatry residency at University of Michigan, where I worked with some of the country's top experts and won multiple awards. I also completed fellowship training in Integrative Psychiatry, where I learned how to incorporate holistic & alternative approaches to creating and sustaining vibrant health & well-being.
I also specialize in working with neurodiverse adults including ADHD & ASD ( Autism Spectrum / Asperger's).
I completed medical school & Psychiatry residency at University of Michigan, where I worked with some of the country's top experts and won multiple awards. I also completed fellowship training in Integrative Psychiatry, where I learned how to incorporate holistic & alternative approaches to creating and sustaining vibrant health & well-being.
(734) 206-7954 View (734) 206-7954
Photo of Catherine Nwora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Catherine Nwora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Online Only
I also provide diagnosis for ADHD and the Autism Spectrum.
Are you hesitant about starting medications and looking for someone to evaluate your situation? Have medications become a real struggle? You're just not sure if they are right for you. I am currently accepting new patients with the comfort and convenience of virtual sessions. My goal is to assist patients with various treatment options along with input from the patient. All patients should play an active role in determining their treatment plan. Together, we will create a plan that you are comfortable with. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and also believe in the use of non-pharmacological methods when necessary.
I also provide diagnosis for ADHD and the Autism Spectrum.
Are you hesitant about starting medications and looking for someone to evaluate your situation? Have medications become a real struggle? You're just not sure if they are right for you. I am currently accepting new patients with the comfort and convenience of virtual sessions. My goal is to assist patients with various treatment options along with input from the patient. All patients should play an active role in determining their treatment plan. Together, we will create a plan that you are comfortable with. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and also believe in the use of non-pharmacological methods when necessary.
(248) 985-8141 View (248) 985-8141
Photo of Davita Burkhead-Weiner, Psychiatrist, MD
Davita Burkhead-Weiner
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I work with child, adolescent and adult patients struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, OCD, insomnia amongst other diagnoses as well as emotional, academic, social and occupational stressors.
My office has immediate openings for patients throughout the state of Michigan. I am a double-board certified Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Before establishing a private practice, I worked as an outpatient psychiatrist at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea. I am a graduate of Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry through the University of Michigan in 2014.
I work with child, adolescent and adult patients struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, OCD, insomnia amongst other diagnoses as well as emotional, academic, social and occupational stressors.
My office has immediate openings for patients throughout the state of Michigan. I am a double-board certified Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Before establishing a private practice, I worked as an outpatient psychiatrist at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea. I am a graduate of Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry through the University of Michigan in 2014.
(734) 366-4884 View (734) 366-4884
Photo of Zulfiqar Ahmed - Healthy Minds Psychiatric & TMS Center , Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Healthy Minds Psychiatric & TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Okemos, MI 48864
Bipolar Disorder & Autism.
Dr. Ahmed, a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, brings many years of experience in treating a broad range of mental illnesses. He offers comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs, starting with an initial diagnostic interview followed by a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include medication management, psychotherapy, a combination of both, TMS or Spravato depending on the patient's specific symptoms and requirements.
Bipolar Disorder & Autism.
Dr. Ahmed, a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, brings many years of experience in treating a broad range of mental illnesses. He offers comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs, starting with an initial diagnostic interview followed by a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include medication management, psychotherapy, a combination of both, TMS or Spravato depending on the patient's specific symptoms and requirements.
(517) 618-0934 View (517) 618-0934
Photo of Norman Emil Alessi, Psychiatrist, MD
Norman Emil Alessi
Psychiatrist, MD
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
For years I have made the areas of interest Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorders and the use of psychopharmacological agents.
I have over 40 years of expertise in the identification and treatment of mental and emotional conditions in patients of all ages. I am double boarded and was a Professor at the University of Michigan. I know a broad range of conditions, how they coexist, and how to direct care in their management. I use a wide range of therapies to deal with these issues. I often see those patients who have been seen and treated many times before: many meds and little response. I care and I can help. Don't put off getting help for you or your child if they are having problems.
For years I have made the areas of interest Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorders and the use of psychopharmacological agents.
I have over 40 years of expertise in the identification and treatment of mental and emotional conditions in patients of all ages. I am double boarded and was a Professor at the University of Michigan. I know a broad range of conditions, how they coexist, and how to direct care in their management. I use a wide range of therapies to deal with these issues. I often see those patients who have been seen and treated many times before: many meds and little response. I care and I can help. Don't put off getting help for you or your child if they are having problems.
(734) 361-1088 View (734) 361-1088
Photo of Prima Muzirman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, FNP
Prima Muzirman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, FNP
9 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
My personal experience of having a loved one on the autism spectrum has deepened my sensitivity and understanding of this population’s needs, allowing me to connect with and support those in similar positions.
Immediate Weekend Availability! Do you feel like your concerns aren’t being taken seriously during doctor’s appointments? If you’re experiencing anxiety, exhaustion, or constant worry, it’s crucial to address these feelings early on before they become overwhelming. Many people find it difficult to get timely mental health evaluations to receive medication for anxiety and depression, and waiting weeks or even months can be frustrating when you need help now. You’re not alone in wanting to be proactive about your mental health, and finding the right support should be straightforward and empowering.
My personal experience of having a loved one on the autism spectrum has deepened my sensitivity and understanding of this population’s needs, allowing me to connect with and support those in similar positions.
Immediate Weekend Availability! Do you feel like your concerns aren’t being taken seriously during doctor’s appointments? If you’re experiencing anxiety, exhaustion, or constant worry, it’s crucial to address these feelings early on before they become overwhelming. Many people find it difficult to get timely mental health evaluations to receive medication for anxiety and depression, and waiting weeks or even months can be frustrating when you need help now. You’re not alone in wanting to be proactive about your mental health, and finding the right support should be straightforward and empowering.
(248) 965-5944 View (248) 965-5944
Photo of Krishna Jakkula, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APNP-C
Krishna Jakkula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with clients who may be struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Autism, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, and Schizophrenia.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have had a plethora of opportunities to work with patients who have a gamut of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Working with these patients has truly enlightened me and has enhanced my understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health care and the critical need for specialized, compassionate, non-judgmental, and patient-centered treatment.
I work with clients who may be struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Autism, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, and Schizophrenia.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have had a plethora of opportunities to work with patients who have a gamut of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Working with these patients has truly enlightened me and has enhanced my understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health care and the critical need for specialized, compassionate, non-judgmental, and patient-centered treatment.
(313) 631-5893 View (313) 631-5893
Photo of Clark Chen, Psychiatrist, DO
Clark Chen
Psychiatrist, DO
Berkley, MI 48072
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
(323) 859-6342 View (323) 859-6342
Photo of Melissa Black, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Melissa Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
East Lansing, MI 48823
Melissa has worked in the Greater Lansing community in mental health support for nearly 19 years. Her experience includes teaching yoga and meditation, supporting community members with access and inclusion, psychiatric nursing, and psychiatric nurse practitionership. She has a special interest in women and the LGBTQI+ community s equitable access to compassionate and informed healthcare, and the treatments of anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders.
Melissa has worked in the Greater Lansing community in mental health support for nearly 19 years. Her experience includes teaching yoga and meditation, supporting community members with access and inclusion, psychiatric nursing, and psychiatric nurse practitionership. She has a special interest in women and the LGBTQI+ community s equitable access to compassionate and informed healthcare, and the treatments of anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders.
(517) 901-7190 View (517) 901-7190
Photo of Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brighton, MI 48114
Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye, NP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan achieve mental wellness through compassionate care and evidence-based treatments. She provides individualized therapy and medication management, offering support to adolescents, adults, and seniors facing a range of mental health challenges. Her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder allows her to tailor treatment plans that empower her patients to regain control of their lives.
Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye, NP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan achieve mental wellness through compassionate care and evidence-based treatments. She provides individualized therapy and medication management, offering support to adolescents, adults, and seniors facing a range of mental health challenges. Her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder allows her to tailor treatment plans that empower her patients to regain control of their lives.
(810) 688-6814 View (810) 688-6814
Premier Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Livonia, MI 48152
I am a board certified psychiatrist with second board certification in child and adolescent psychiatry. My passion is to work with all age ranges from treating a broad range of diagnosis. I have an extensive experience working with child/ Adult population. Our office is at a very convenient location with easy access to private/public transportation. We have flexible schedule including evenings and weekend appointments. We are accepting new patients with short wait time.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with second board certification in child and adolescent psychiatry. My passion is to work with all age ranges from treating a broad range of diagnosis. I have an extensive experience working with child/ Adult population. Our office is at a very convenient location with easy access to private/public transportation. We have flexible schedule including evenings and weekend appointments. We are accepting new patients with short wait time.
(248) 918-2273 View (248) 918-2273
Photo of Chinwe Ohaka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Chinwe Ohaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Brighton, MI 48114
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life s challenges with confidence and clarity.
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life s challenges with confidence and clarity.
(810) 888-0212 View (810) 888-0212
Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Infinite Wellness. At this time, we are generally able to see new patients within 30 days. There is a board certified Psychiatrist and a Nurse Practitioner. We refer to several therapists in the community.
Welcome to Infinite Wellness. At this time, we are generally able to see new patients within 30 days. There is a board certified Psychiatrist and a Nurse Practitioner. We refer to several therapists in the community.
(248) 218-9429 View (248) 218-9429
Photo of Rebecca Greer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Rebecca Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Though I do treat individuals of all ages, my passion lies in treating children and adolescents. Many children struggle with mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and more, but this population tends to be underserved in mental healthcare. The families of these children also often struggle and don't know where to turn. These children and families need support and guidance to get through difficult times. No matter the age though of any individual I treat, I believe strongly that we are partners in your care and customizing an individual plan that will work best for you, or your child.
Though I do treat individuals of all ages, my passion lies in treating children and adolescents. Many children struggle with mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and more, but this population tends to be underserved in mental healthcare. The families of these children also often struggle and don't know where to turn. These children and families need support and guidance to get through difficult times. No matter the age though of any individual I treat, I believe strongly that we are partners in your care and customizing an individual plan that will work best for you, or your child.
(248) 609-4934 View (248) 609-4934
Photo of Alexis Lykins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Alexis Lykins, APRN
Alexis Lykins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Alexis Lykins, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Alexis, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner offering virtual mental health care to adults across Michigan. I believe in collaborative care — where you’re heard, understood, and actively involved in your treatment. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and values.
Hi, I’m Alexis, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner offering virtual mental health care to adults across Michigan. I believe in collaborative care — where you’re heard, understood, and actively involved in your treatment. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and values.
(248) 955-2174 View (248) 955-2174

See more therapy options for Michigan

Autism Psychiatrists

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.