Autism Therapists in Arkansas
Autism treatment will emphasize improving communication, building social skills, and managing sensory or emotional challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed or disconnected is a natural part of navigating life, especially when different parts of you are in conflict or feeling unheard. I provide a compassionate, supportive space where we can explore these parts together using Internal Family Systems (IFS), allowing you to understand yourself better, heal emotional wounds, and move forward with clarity and purpose.
Autism treatment will emphasize improving communication, building social skills, and managing sensory or emotional challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed or disconnected is a natural part of navigating life, especially when different parts of you are in conflict or feeling unheard. I provide a compassionate, supportive space where we can explore these parts together using Internal Family Systems (IFS), allowing you to understand yourself better, heal emotional wounds, and move forward with clarity and purpose.
Specializing in Psychological Testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disorders, Intellectual Disability, Dementia/Memory problems, and Psychiatric Disorders in general.
Psychological testing can also help clarify the problems, particularly with children.
Specializing in Psychological Testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disorders, Intellectual Disability, Dementia/Memory problems, and Psychiatric Disorders in general.
Psychological testing can also help clarify the problems, particularly with children.
My ideal clients are individuals that are living with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression or other behavioral issues who need to learn better ways to cope.
In my 5 years of working as a therapist in the public schools, I gained experience and knowledge of how to help kids and their families as well as supporting them with IEP and 504 needs. I am a Certified Autplay Provider, certified to provide Safe and Sound Protocol and have received Lvl 1 Theraplay/MIM training.
My ideal clients are individuals that are living with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression or other behavioral issues who need to learn better ways to cope.
In my 5 years of working as a therapist in the public schools, I gained experience and knowledge of how to help kids and their families as well as supporting them with IEP and 504 needs. I am a Certified Autplay Provider, certified to provide Safe and Sound Protocol and have received Lvl 1 Theraplay/MIM training.
I also have a great interest and extensive training in helping children and adults with Autism and Aspergers to improve their emotional, social, and behavioral functioning.
My specialties include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and social skills training with children, adolescents and their families in an outpatient setting focusing on issues of anxiety and depression, autism, ADHD, behavioral issues, social skills, relationship building and trauma.
I also have a great interest and extensive training in helping children and adults with Autism and Aspergers to improve their emotional, social, and behavioral functioning.
My specialties include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and social skills training with children, adolescents and their families in an outpatient setting focusing on issues of anxiety and depression, autism, ADHD, behavioral issues, social skills, relationship building and trauma.
In addition to general therapeutic training, I offer Applied Behavior Analysis, a specific treatment for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Behavior change is applicable to everyone, not just those with psychological distress. I specialize in behavior change and communication. I offer direct, compassionate feedback, problem solving, and a fair evaluation of the circumstances.
In addition to general therapeutic training, I offer Applied Behavior Analysis, a specific treatment for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Behavior change is applicable to everyone, not just those with psychological distress. I specialize in behavior change and communication. I offer direct, compassionate feedback, problem solving, and a fair evaluation of the circumstances.
Dr. Stephanie Steele-Wren
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Psychologist, I provide comprehensive evals (i.e. ADHD, Autism) and focus on testing you holistically, not just for the diagnosis suspected- I want you to learn about yourself through the process.
I now only offer testing/evaluation specialty services including diagnosing ADHD, adult ASD, personality testing, as well as testing needed for certain employment, pre-surgical evaluations, and general diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations for those already in therapy who may not be making progress.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I provide comprehensive evals (i.e. ADHD, Autism) and focus on testing you holistically, not just for the diagnosis suspected- I want you to learn about yourself through the process.
I now only offer testing/evaluation specialty services including diagnosing ADHD, adult ASD, personality testing, as well as testing needed for certain employment, pre-surgical evaluations, and general diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations for those already in therapy who may not be making progress.
Caitlin Draper Mattelin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS, ACAS
5 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
I am a licensed clinical therapist with a focus in treating eating disorders, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, maternal mental health, and healthcare professionals.
My approach to therapy is warm and encouraging, and I believe therapy is an opportunity for self-exploration, healing, empowerment and personal growth. My goal is to empower you to fill your toolbox with the things you need to reach your full potential.
I am a licensed clinical therapist with a focus in treating eating disorders, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, maternal mental health, and healthcare professionals.
My approach to therapy is warm and encouraging, and I believe therapy is an opportunity for self-exploration, healing, empowerment and personal growth. My goal is to empower you to fill your toolbox with the things you need to reach your full potential.
I primarily work with my clients on are symptoms related to ADHD and/or Autism, anxiety, depression, relational issues, and managing stress.
My ideal client is looking for a therapist to guide and support them towards their personal growth goals and emotional wellbeing. I love working with people on their journeys toward authentic living and discovery. Therapy often involves taking deep dives into one's inner world and looking honestly at behavior patterns and ways of relating to oneself and others. I have a laidback and personable approach to therapy, holding a non-judgmental space for you to share your unique life experiences and perspectives.
I primarily work with my clients on are symptoms related to ADHD and/or Autism, anxiety, depression, relational issues, and managing stress.
My ideal client is looking for a therapist to guide and support them towards their personal growth goals and emotional wellbeing. I love working with people on their journeys toward authentic living and discovery. Therapy often involves taking deep dives into one's inner world and looking honestly at behavior patterns and ways of relating to oneself and others. I have a laidback and personable approach to therapy, holding a non-judgmental space for you to share your unique life experiences and perspectives.
I work well with clients that deal with neuro-divergent struggles (ADHD/ Autism).
Reaching out for help and healing is one of the most difficult things for anyone to do. Learning, growing and improving is something that should be a lifelong endeavor. If you are reading this, then clearly you are looking for help in this journey we know as life. Everything I do as a counselor revolves around helping people learn, grow and improve themselves – whether this means overcoming trauma experienced, recent life changes, or just looking to better understand how you operate as a person, my goal is for you to be able to walk away from working with me saying, “I am a better version of myself than I was a year ago”.
I work well with clients that deal with neuro-divergent struggles (ADHD/ Autism).
Reaching out for help and healing is one of the most difficult things for anyone to do. Learning, growing and improving is something that should be a lifelong endeavor. If you are reading this, then clearly you are looking for help in this journey we know as life. Everything I do as a counselor revolves around helping people learn, grow and improve themselves – whether this means overcoming trauma experienced, recent life changes, or just looking to better understand how you operate as a person, my goal is for you to be able to walk away from working with me saying, “I am a better version of myself than I was a year ago”.
Contact us for further information on getting an evaluation for pediatric therapy services - we can see 0-21 years of age and specialize in child-led therapy, sensory regulation, autism treatment, developmental delays, and behavioral/emotional regulation!
We are a pediatric therapy clinic that brings therapy to your child’s school, daycare, or your doorstep or at our clinic location in fort smith AR! Our clinic is credentialed in multiple private and state insurances and service two states (Oklahoma and Arkansas).
Contact us for further information on getting an evaluation for pediatric therapy services - we can see 0-21 years of age and specialize in child-led therapy, sensory regulation, autism treatment, developmental delays, and behavioral/emotional regulation!
We are a pediatric therapy clinic that brings therapy to your child’s school, daycare, or your doorstep or at our clinic location in fort smith AR! Our clinic is credentialed in multiple private and state insurances and service two states (Oklahoma and Arkansas).
My practice is focused on addressing general psychological concerns that may affect an individual and/or their family throughout the lifespan with a special emphasis on individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.
Together we will explore your world. - what works for you; what do you struggle with; how would like things to look. For individuals affected by developmental disorders such as Autism, I have found that we need to consider the individual’s lived experience as well as how underlying neurological differences impact situational contexts.
My practice is focused on addressing general psychological concerns that may affect an individual and/or their family throughout the lifespan with a special emphasis on individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.
Together we will explore your world. - what works for you; what do you struggle with; how would like things to look. For individuals affected by developmental disorders such as Autism, I have found that we need to consider the individual’s lived experience as well as how underlying neurological differences impact situational contexts.
Wondering if you might have Autism/ADHD?
I lived with these questions and self-doubts for 43 years, until my ASD diagnosis by my own therapist (5 years after the DSM 5 redefined the scope of autism). My lived experience of losses due to a lack of support and understanding (even from other mental health professionals) has informed my expertise and ability to relate to and assist my clients.
Wondering if you might have Autism/ADHD?
I lived with these questions and self-doubts for 43 years, until my ASD diagnosis by my own therapist (5 years after the DSM 5 redefined the scope of autism). My lived experience of losses due to a lack of support and understanding (even from other mental health professionals) has informed my expertise and ability to relate to and assist my clients.
As a practicing clinician for 15 years, most of my work is with children/adolescents – ages 3-17 years - specializing in anxiety, ADHD, Autism spectrum, adjustment challenges, & trauma issues.
My theoretical approach is Adlerian and underpins all my specific intervention treatment practices I employ. I have recently expanded my practice into ADHD Coaching services. Currently, I am a Coach with ADHD ReWired's online Adult group immersive 10-week coaching program. I offer individual ADHD coaching in my practice as well.
As a practicing clinician for 15 years, most of my work is with children/adolescents – ages 3-17 years - specializing in anxiety, ADHD, Autism spectrum, adjustment challenges, & trauma issues.
My theoretical approach is Adlerian and underpins all my specific intervention treatment practices I employ. I have recently expanded my practice into ADHD Coaching services. Currently, I am a Coach with ADHD ReWired's online Adult group immersive 10-week coaching program. I offer individual ADHD coaching in my practice as well.
Black has experience with include those struggling with depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, family-relational difficulties, learning disabilities, conduct disorder, substance use, disordered eating, and trauma.
Dr. Black provides comprehensive psychological services which include individual counseling, group counseling, family counseling, psychological assessment, and psychoeducational evaluations. She uses behavioral therapies (Applied Behavior Analysis and Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Client Centered, and Solution Focused approaches to meet client needs.
Black has experience with include those struggling with depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, family-relational difficulties, learning disabilities, conduct disorder, substance use, disordered eating, and trauma.
Dr. Black provides comprehensive psychological services which include individual counseling, group counseling, family counseling, psychological assessment, and psychoeducational evaluations. She uses behavioral therapies (Applied Behavior Analysis and Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Client Centered, and Solution Focused approaches to meet client needs.
My interests and experiences are in: trauma processing, neurodiversity, autism, anxiety, depression, adoption and foster care, attachment, behavior and mood dysregulation, stress and panic, and self-esteem.
I am nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and am trained in multiple modalities of Play Therapy. I provide individual, family, and group therapy services. I worked in school-based services for 3 years until moving to private practice.
My interests and experiences are in: trauma processing, neurodiversity, autism, anxiety, depression, adoption and foster care, attachment, behavior and mood dysregulation, stress and panic, and self-esteem.
I am nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and am trained in multiple modalities of Play Therapy. I provide individual, family, and group therapy services. I worked in school-based services for 3 years until moving to private practice.
My name is Toni Hagins and I am the owner and Counselor at Journey Counseling Texas, LLC in Queen City, Texas. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Texas and Arkansas. My focus is on development across the lifespan and tackling the challenges that comes with each new stage. From the initial task of developing a secure, healthy attachment with caregivers in infancy and toddlerhood to looking back on a life well lived and everything that comes in between; we all need support and help sometimes.
My name is Toni Hagins and I am the owner and Counselor at Journey Counseling Texas, LLC in Queen City, Texas. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Texas and Arkansas. My focus is on development across the lifespan and tackling the challenges that comes with each new stage. From the initial task of developing a secure, healthy attachment with caregivers in infancy and toddlerhood to looking back on a life well lived and everything that comes in between; we all need support and help sometimes.
E Protocol Training for School Professional on Self-Injurious Behaviors, Parent-child relational issues, Stress Management, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Grief, Borderline Personality Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Trauma, ADHD, & Career Exploration
Angela Holloway Shakir is a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Northwest Arkansas. She serves children and adolescents ages (5-17), adults (18+) and the senior populations (65+). Angela has over 7 years of experience in a variety of settings including school based, residential, inpatient, outpatient, and corrections. Her services are tailored for individual, group, couples, and families offering an integrative approach to address the unique needs of each client. Her experience and skills allow her to serve a diverse population providing both long term and brief interventions.
E Protocol Training for School Professional on Self-Injurious Behaviors, Parent-child relational issues, Stress Management, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Grief, Borderline Personality Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Trauma, ADHD, & Career Exploration
Angela Holloway Shakir is a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Northwest Arkansas. She serves children and adolescents ages (5-17), adults (18+) and the senior populations (65+). Angela has over 7 years of experience in a variety of settings including school based, residential, inpatient, outpatient, and corrections. Her services are tailored for individual, group, couples, and families offering an integrative approach to address the unique needs of each client. Her experience and skills allow her to serve a diverse population providing both long term and brief interventions.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents who have a variety of social, emotional, and behavioral concerns, including: anxiety, depression, anger management, oppositional behavior, ADHD, Autism, and relational issues.
I view therapy as a joint collaboration. Though much of therapy will be directed towards the child, I believe that parents/guardians are an integral part of the therapeutic process. Collaboration and communication between the therapist, child, and parents/guardians are essential to effective outcomes and positive results.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents who have a variety of social, emotional, and behavioral concerns, including: anxiety, depression, anger management, oppositional behavior, ADHD, Autism, and relational issues.
I view therapy as a joint collaboration. Though much of therapy will be directed towards the child, I believe that parents/guardians are an integral part of the therapeutic process. Collaboration and communication between the therapist, child, and parents/guardians are essential to effective outcomes and positive results.
CPTSD, Narcisstic Abuse Recovery, Neuroinclusive
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Barling, AR 72923
I specialize in CPTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, & late-diagnosed Neurocomplexity (AUDHD, Autism, or Adhd).
Your childhood didn’t provide the instruction manual you needed for life. You coped as best you could & yet you question your decisions when it comes to partnering, parenting, or leading. Your mind is constantly active, your heart is braced or bruised, & your spirit & body are MIA. You rumble with angst, doubt, & anxiety. Your capacity isn’t keeping up with your desire or demands. You go deep, are “highly sensitive”, creative, or gifted, yet your strengths are overlooked & your differences are not seen or supported. You need TLC for your wounds, ways to address your unmet needs, & skills to grow your capacity.
I specialize in CPTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, & late-diagnosed Neurocomplexity (AUDHD, Autism, or Adhd).
Your childhood didn’t provide the instruction manual you needed for life. You coped as best you could & yet you question your decisions when it comes to partnering, parenting, or leading. Your mind is constantly active, your heart is braced or bruised, & your spirit & body are MIA. You rumble with angst, doubt, & anxiety. Your capacity isn’t keeping up with your desire or demands. You go deep, are “highly sensitive”, creative, or gifted, yet your strengths are overlooked & your differences are not seen or supported. You need TLC for your wounds, ways to address your unmet needs, & skills to grow your capacity.
If you are a person with Autism, ADHD, or anxiety, I hope that you can find rest in knowing that I value the way your brain uniquely works.
I have worked in the field of psychology for 14 years and have followed a natural calling into clinical mental health counseling. When we meet, you will find someone who is ready to listen and partner with you in your goals. You will be with a natural introvert who loves to listen to you and is most comfortable in building deep connections in a comfortable and small environment. My goal is to create an environment in which you can also feel safe and comfortable.
If you are a person with Autism, ADHD, or anxiety, I hope that you can find rest in knowing that I value the way your brain uniquely works.
I have worked in the field of psychology for 14 years and have followed a natural calling into clinical mental health counseling. When we meet, you will find someone who is ready to listen and partner with you in your goals. You will be with a natural introvert who loves to listen to you and is most comfortable in building deep connections in a comfortable and small environment. My goal is to create an environment in which you can also feel safe and comfortable.
See more therapy options for Arkansas
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.