Autism Therapists in Arizona

Tamara Woodard AuDHD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, ADHD-CS
Mesa, AZ 85210
Tamara and her team offer individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults, as well as diagnostic autism evaluations for 12 months to adults.
Healing Harbor Counseling has helped 1000+ children & young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence. Tamara has a unique perspective as a psychotherapist and a parent who raised two children with ADHD & autism who are today, an engineer & college student.
Tamara and her team offer individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults, as well as diagnostic autism evaluations for 12 months to adults.
Healing Harbor Counseling has helped 1000+ children & young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence. Tamara has a unique perspective as a psychotherapist and a parent who raised two children with ADHD & autism who are today, an engineer & college student.
(928) 599-7931 View (928) 599-7931
Sara Gibson
Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My experience stems from over a decade of working with neurodivergent and high-anxiety individuals, including those with ADHD, Autism, OCD, PTSD, interpersonal/familial struggles, high sensitivity, and low self-esteem.
Are you emotionally tapped-out from trying to navigate things on your own? Do you ever feel like it's sometimes just too hard to put into words, or maybe too much to explain to someone else? I understand this can feel isolating at times, I’ve been there, and I've learned that there’s no "one-size-fits-all" path to healing. What I've also learned, is that by understanding the WHY behind our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while receiving compassionate guidance that feels both relevant and effective, we can truly start to experience real progress and relief in our lives.
My experience stems from over a decade of working with neurodivergent and high-anxiety individuals, including those with ADHD, Autism, OCD, PTSD, interpersonal/familial struggles, high sensitivity, and low self-esteem.
Are you emotionally tapped-out from trying to navigate things on your own? Do you ever feel like it's sometimes just too hard to put into words, or maybe too much to explain to someone else? I understand this can feel isolating at times, I’ve been there, and I've learned that there’s no "one-size-fits-all" path to healing. What I've also learned, is that by understanding the WHY behind our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while receiving compassionate guidance that feels both relevant and effective, we can truly start to experience real progress and relief in our lives.
(623) 286-2612 View (623) 286-2612
Darcy Easley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ASDCS, CSOTP
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I also specialize in treating children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum.
My experience lies primarily in treating pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I am a certified trauma therapist and certified to treat individuals with poor physical boundaries. In addition, I am also an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and have a passion for helping families who have been impacted by Autism.
I also specialize in treating children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum.
My experience lies primarily in treating pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I am a certified trauma therapist and certified to treat individuals with poor physical boundaries. In addition, I am also an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and have a passion for helping families who have been impacted by Autism.
(602) 600-6147 View (602) 600-6147
Sarah Argueta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Tucson, AZ 85712
Wonder if you may be autistic or know that you’re autistic and want to find a neurodiversity affirmative therapist to help you navigate struggles through this lens of understanding?
I offer an integrated approach, focused on holding the space for you to bring what needs to be seen, while offering psychoeducation on the neurobiology behind your mental, emotional, and somatic distress. I also offer assessment and diagnosis of less obvious adult autism ( ASD) and specialize in therapy for autistic adults with less obvious autism.
Wonder if you may be autistic or know that you’re autistic and want to find a neurodiversity affirmative therapist to help you navigate struggles through this lens of understanding?
I offer an integrated approach, focused on holding the space for you to bring what needs to be seen, while offering psychoeducation on the neurobiology behind your mental, emotional, and somatic distress. I also offer assessment and diagnosis of less obvious adult autism ( ASD) and specialize in therapy for autistic adults with less obvious autism.
(928) 597-4838 View (928) 597-4838
Jennifer Raftis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85711
I specialize in helping children, teens, adults, and neurodivergent individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, trauma, and the complex experiences of adoption and foster care.
In therapy, I use a strength and values-based from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness practices. Together, we’ll identify clear goals, develop practical tools, and build confidence as you begin to take meaningful steps towards your life.
I specialize in helping children, teens, adults, and neurodivergent individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, trauma, and the complex experiences of adoption and foster care.
In therapy, I use a strength and values-based from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness practices. Together, we’ll identify clear goals, develop practical tools, and build confidence as you begin to take meaningful steps towards your life.
(520) 636-2811 View (520) 636-2811
Dr. Justin Gardner
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
I specialize in comprehensive evaluations to help individuals and families better understand learning differences, attention and executive functioning concerns, autism, giftedness, and emotional or behavioral challenges.
My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and highly individualized. I take time to understand the whole person—not just test scores—and focus on translating complex findings into clear, practical guidance that supports informed decisions and meaningful next steps.
I specialize in comprehensive evaluations to help individuals and families better understand learning differences, attention and executive functioning concerns, autism, giftedness, and emotional or behavioral challenges.
My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and highly individualized. I take time to understand the whole person—not just test scores—and focus on translating complex findings into clear, practical guidance that supports informed decisions and meaningful next steps.
(520) 567-7828 View (520) 567-7828
Sam McCulloch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
At Radiant Sun Therapy, we believe that healing happens through engagement, connection, and experience. Play is a powerful tool for exploring and processing emotions—not just for children, but for people of all ages. Through play, gaming, and immersive experiences, we learn about communication, resilience, social expectations, and relationships. For children and adolescents, integrating gaming and virtual reality into therapy fosters engagement and makes sessions something to look forward to. We use interactive play and shared gaming experiences to build trust, helping kids and teens feel safe in exploring difficult emotions.
At Radiant Sun Therapy, we believe that healing happens through engagement, connection, and experience. Play is a powerful tool for exploring and processing emotions—not just for children, but for people of all ages. Through play, gaming, and immersive experiences, we learn about communication, resilience, social expectations, and relationships. For children and adolescents, integrating gaming and virtual reality into therapy fosters engagement and makes sessions something to look forward to. We use interactive play and shared gaming experiences to build trust, helping kids and teens feel safe in exploring difficult emotions.
(928) 599-8359 View (928) 599-8359
Madelaine S Ford
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Hola! I know that searching for the right therapist can feel overwhelming with so many profiles and unfamiliar terms to navigate! It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated or unsure about where to start. But finding someone who truly understands and supports you shouldn’t be so difficult. I believe that every person has unique strengths and the ability to experience joy. My goal is to help you uncover and move past the personal and systemic challenges that may be holding you back so you can grow and thrive. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’m here to help.
Hola! I know that searching for the right therapist can feel overwhelming with so many profiles and unfamiliar terms to navigate! It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated or unsure about where to start. But finding someone who truly understands and supports you shouldn’t be so difficult. I believe that every person has unique strengths and the ability to experience joy. My goal is to help you uncover and move past the personal and systemic challenges that may be holding you back so you can grow and thrive. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’m here to help.
(520) 341-2923 View (520) 341-2923
Jordan Johansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I work with adolescents and young adults who are neurodivergent, including those with autism, ADHD, and giftedness.
I provide a structured, supportive space where clients can develop stronger self-regulation, emotional awareness, and confidence. Using evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, I help adolescents and young adults navigate anxiety, behavioral challenges, relationships, and academic or life transitions.
I work with adolescents and young adults who are neurodivergent, including those with autism, ADHD, and giftedness.
I provide a structured, supportive space where clients can develop stronger self-regulation, emotional awareness, and confidence. Using evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, I help adolescents and young adults navigate anxiety, behavioral challenges, relationships, and academic or life transitions.
(520) 675-4427 View (520) 675-4427
Sara Frye
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
(520) 282-4709 View (520) 282-4709
Emma Matthys
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I work with adolescents and adults on a range of matters including ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQIA+, careers, and relationship difficulties.
I take a personalized approach to therapy, blending various techniques to create a treatment plan that fits you. Whether it's through person-centered conversations, humanistic insights, solution-focused strategies, mindfulness practices, or cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor our sessions to what resonates most with you and your treatment goals.
I work with adolescents and adults on a range of matters including ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQIA+, careers, and relationship difficulties.
I take a personalized approach to therapy, blending various techniques to create a treatment plan that fits you. Whether it's through person-centered conversations, humanistic insights, solution-focused strategies, mindfulness practices, or cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor our sessions to what resonates most with you and your treatment goals.
(602) 932-2590 View (602) 932-2590
Jenny Lynn Whipple
Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
I have specialized training and experience working with families and individuals affected by developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
It might seem impossible but, you can learn to love yourself. I provide a rich environment for learning and exploration of what is important to you so you can refocus your life and move forward with intention. Through counseling, you can learn to cooperate with your mind and body. With more than three decades in the fields of special education, parenting education, and mental health, I work with individuals, couples, and families to identify their specific needs and provide education to support progress toward their personal goals.
I have specialized training and experience working with families and individuals affected by developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
It might seem impossible but, you can learn to love yourself. I provide a rich environment for learning and exploration of what is important to you so you can refocus your life and move forward with intention. Through counseling, you can learn to cooperate with your mind and body. With more than three decades in the fields of special education, parenting education, and mental health, I work with individuals, couples, and families to identify their specific needs and provide education to support progress toward their personal goals.
(602) 834-4458 View (602) 834-4458
Jennifer Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD in children, teens, and adults.
I use a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral approach when providing counseling services to the individuals and families that I serve. I am trained in EMDR therapy which can be used to treat a multitude of presenting issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and phobias.
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD in children, teens, and adults.
I use a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral approach when providing counseling services to the individuals and families that I serve. I am trained in EMDR therapy which can be used to treat a multitude of presenting issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and phobias.
(602) 638-3406 View (602) 638-3406
Alessia Kosta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I have completed extensive additional trainings in EMDR (certification in progress), Neuroaffective Relational Model, Autism Spectrum Certification coursework, and so many more!
Neurodivergence doesn't show up alone, it often shows up with trauma, anxiety, depression, and OCD. After a lifetime of living with these symptoms, we often believe there is something fundamentally wrong with us and become stuck in patterns we don't know how to resolve. My practice and training is dedicated to supporting clients at the intersections of these challenges through tailored and specialized care that addresses all three issues, the way they overlap, and they ways they don't.
I have completed extensive additional trainings in EMDR (certification in progress), Neuroaffective Relational Model, Autism Spectrum Certification coursework, and so many more!
Neurodivergence doesn't show up alone, it often shows up with trauma, anxiety, depression, and OCD. After a lifetime of living with these symptoms, we often believe there is something fundamentally wrong with us and become stuck in patterns we don't know how to resolve. My practice and training is dedicated to supporting clients at the intersections of these challenges through tailored and specialized care that addresses all three issues, the way they overlap, and they ways they don't.
(480) 685-9592 View (480) 685-9592
Alexandra Walcott
Occupational Therapist, OTR/L, RCC
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
As an OT, I’ve worked with hundreds of neurodivergent, autistic and gifted children over the years.
I integrate my clinical disciplines to address both your emotional and practical needs collaboratively. Occupational therapy focuses on increasing your participation and success in everyday life with a creative, personalized approach that capitalizes on your strengths and supports you where you need it most.
As an OT, I’ve worked with hundreds of neurodivergent, autistic and gifted children over the years.
I integrate my clinical disciplines to address both your emotional and practical needs collaboratively. Occupational therapy focuses on increasing your participation and success in everyday life with a creative, personalized approach that capitalizes on your strengths and supports you where you need it most.
(520) 593-7032 View (520) 593-7032
Sandra jo Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elgin, AZ 85611
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
(844) 919-0326 View (844) 919-0326
Allie Newell
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Many are navigating ADHD, Autism, anxiety, relational challenges, or internal blocks that keep them from showing up fully in life.
As a behavior analyst, I offer practical, action oriented and collaborative therapy that helps you understand what drives your patterns and how to respond differently. We explore thoughts, emotions, habits, and daily routines, work through discomfort, and build tools you can actually use. Sessions are active, engaging, and focused on real, lasting change.
Many are navigating ADHD, Autism, anxiety, relational challenges, or internal blocks that keep them from showing up fully in life.
As a behavior analyst, I offer practical, action oriented and collaborative therapy that helps you understand what drives your patterns and how to respond differently. We explore thoughts, emotions, habits, and daily routines, work through discomfort, and build tools you can actually use. Sessions are active, engaging, and focused on real, lasting change.
(520) 502-6262 View (520) 502-6262
Marian C Eberly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Phoenix, AZ 85029
My evidence based practice includes competencies with Autism : L-1,(Formerly known as Asberger's) & all Anxiety/Depressive Disorders,Eating Disorders especially in children, teens, young adults.
Counseling is about "connecting the dots" not FOR people, but WITH them-Equipping people to become more effective in life! and..I believe that Faith and Science can co-exist in counseling effectively! Providing Evidence-based counseling for Autism, Depression & Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, OCD,ADHD, Eating Disorders,Parenting, marriage & relationships.
My evidence based practice includes competencies with Autism : L-1,(Formerly known as Asberger's) & all Anxiety/Depressive Disorders,Eating Disorders especially in children, teens, young adults.
Counseling is about "connecting the dots" not FOR people, but WITH them-Equipping people to become more effective in life! and..I believe that Faith and Science can co-exist in counseling effectively! Providing Evidence-based counseling for Autism, Depression & Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, OCD,ADHD, Eating Disorders,Parenting, marriage & relationships.
(623) 321-2080 View (623) 321-2080
Adrianne Gallucci
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Phoenix, AZ 85020
For adults, I provide: comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, capacity evaluations (finances, medical decisions, consent to treatment, living independently), pre-surgery evaluations (neuromodulation, bariatric, amputation), Fitness for Duty evaluations, ADHD, Autism, and psychological evaluations.
A cognitive eval includes an assessment of comprehension; memory; problem solving ability; attention/concentration; mental flexibility; impulse control; and personality changes. Capacity evals assess the ability to manage finances, make medical decisions, and/or live independently. Psychological evaluations assess current psychological functioning.
For adults, I provide: comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, capacity evaluations (finances, medical decisions, consent to treatment, living independently), pre-surgery evaluations (neuromodulation, bariatric, amputation), Fitness for Duty evaluations, ADHD, Autism, and psychological evaluations.
A cognitive eval includes an assessment of comprehension; memory; problem solving ability; attention/concentration; mental flexibility; impulse control; and personality changes. Capacity evals assess the ability to manage finances, make medical decisions, and/or live independently. Psychological evaluations assess current psychological functioning.
(602) 641-3203 View (602) 641-3203
Amber Wychers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Are you ready to create a strong foundation in your relationship? Relationship therapy can do just that. Together we will explore your values and learn how to establish safety, honesty, and security to help your relationship flourish. Together, we will explore patterns, or places where you may feel stuck in your relationship. This will allow you and your partner to better understand one another and get to the root of the cycle. I work with couples with a focus on neurodivergence, substance abuse, and infidelity to work together to process hurt, resentment, and anger.
Are you ready to create a strong foundation in your relationship? Relationship therapy can do just that. Together we will explore your values and learn how to establish safety, honesty, and security to help your relationship flourish. Together, we will explore patterns, or places where you may feel stuck in your relationship. This will allow you and your partner to better understand one another and get to the root of the cycle. I work with couples with a focus on neurodivergence, substance abuse, and infidelity to work together to process hurt, resentment, and anger.
(520) 317-2949 View (520) 317-2949

See more therapy options for Arizona

Autism Therapists
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.