Autism Therapists in Alaska
I do have some expertise in trauma both physical and psychological, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism high functioning.
I like to work with families, including children of all ages. I also work with individual adults and occasional couples. I also like to work with military families. I am also trained in EMDR therapy and have even tried some of this therapy style with adolescents. I am also trained in perinatal mood disorders.
I do have some expertise in trauma both physical and psychological, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism high functioning.
I like to work with families, including children of all ages. I also work with individual adults and occasional couples. I also like to work with military families. I am also trained in EMDR therapy and have even tried some of this therapy style with adolescents. I am also trained in perinatal mood disorders.
Do you often feel misunderstood by people in your life, or find it difficult to understand them? Do you have trouble experiencing big emotions, and communicating them to others? Do you experience symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum, trauma, or dysfunction in your family? I am a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, with the belief that each person is an expert on their own experience. When working together, we will create a safe and trusting relationship, to provide a space for honest and meaningful discussion. I will empower you to understand your brain and emotions, to accept and improve your current circumstances.
Do you often feel misunderstood by people in your life, or find it difficult to understand them? Do you have trouble experiencing big emotions, and communicating them to others? Do you experience symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum, trauma, or dysfunction in your family? I am a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, with the belief that each person is an expert on their own experience. When working together, we will create a safe and trusting relationship, to provide a space for honest and meaningful discussion. I will empower you to understand your brain and emotions, to accept and improve your current circumstances.
Breanna James
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99517 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you an adult with autism or ADHD who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
Are you an adult with autism or ADHD who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
Alaska Teletherapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99515 (Online Only)
The individuals and families I work with experience daily struggles related to C-PTSD, Attention/Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dissociative disorders, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. We will work towards processing life experiences while gaining skills, knowledge, and self-understanding along the way. Together, we will tailor this experience to you and your needs.
The individuals and families I work with experience daily struggles related to C-PTSD, Attention/Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dissociative disorders, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. We will work towards processing life experiences while gaining skills, knowledge, and self-understanding along the way. Together, we will tailor this experience to you and your needs.
Spatrisano Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Referrals may relate to ADHD, autism, dementia, stroke, traumatic brain injuries and more.
Hi! My name is Jaime Spatrisano. I am originally from the Midwest and have been enjoying all things Alaska since 2010. I previously worked as a therapist for over 10 years before becoming a clinical neuropsychologist. Over the years I have gained experience in several settings through practicums, internships and work experiences including a TBI clinic, VA hospital, inpatient and outpatient substance use programs, trauma recovery programs, FQHCs and a private neuropsych clinic. I have had the pleasure of working with a wide array of patients including active-duty military, Veterans, Alaska Natives, refugees, immigrants and LGBTQIA+.
Referrals may relate to ADHD, autism, dementia, stroke, traumatic brain injuries and more.
Hi! My name is Jaime Spatrisano. I am originally from the Midwest and have been enjoying all things Alaska since 2010. I previously worked as a therapist for over 10 years before becoming a clinical neuropsychologist. Over the years I have gained experience in several settings through practicums, internships and work experiences including a TBI clinic, VA hospital, inpatient and outpatient substance use programs, trauma recovery programs, FQHCs and a private neuropsych clinic. I have had the pleasure of working with a wide array of patients including active-duty military, Veterans, Alaska Natives, refugees, immigrants and LGBTQIA+.
As a Therapist, I specialize in ILF Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is a noninvasive brain training method that does not involve "traditional talk therapy." Neurofeedback works by training your brain like a personal trainer at the gym. EEG Biofeedback has been around for over 40 years. It was originally used to help epilepsy and has now advanced to help a multitude of issues from PTST, Autism, ADHD, Migraines, and more. I have trained both in Europe and in the USA. What I love about Neurofeedback is it offers another and different method in helping us with our own issues.
As a Therapist, I specialize in ILF Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is a noninvasive brain training method that does not involve "traditional talk therapy." Neurofeedback works by training your brain like a personal trainer at the gym. EEG Biofeedback has been around for over 40 years. It was originally used to help epilepsy and has now advanced to help a multitude of issues from PTST, Autism, ADHD, Migraines, and more. I have trained both in Europe and in the USA. What I love about Neurofeedback is it offers another and different method in helping us with our own issues.
In my neuropsychological evaluation practice, I evaluate individuals from preschool age into adulthood to include assessment for Developmental Disorders, Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders, FASD, TBI, medical and genetic factors, as well as diagnostic clarification related to complex presentations.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
In my neuropsychological evaluation practice, I evaluate individuals from preschool age into adulthood to include assessment for Developmental Disorders, Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders, FASD, TBI, medical and genetic factors, as well as diagnostic clarification related to complex presentations.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
Child and family therapy is a valuable tool. After over 24 years in the field, I've started a practice Counseling Parents and Grandparents, specifically. Insurance will cover this the same as any other counseling appointment. I have specialties in parenting children, teens and adults with ADHD, Autism, Gifted, FASD and children who have experienced Adoption, Divorce and Death and Trauma. I have moved to Quest Counseling and Wellness. I’ve started scheduling clients and have a few open spaces.
Child and family therapy is a valuable tool. After over 24 years in the field, I've started a practice Counseling Parents and Grandparents, specifically. Insurance will cover this the same as any other counseling appointment. I have specialties in parenting children, teens and adults with ADHD, Autism, Gifted, FASD and children who have experienced Adoption, Divorce and Death and Trauma. I have moved to Quest Counseling and Wellness. I’ve started scheduling clients and have a few open spaces.
After graduation, I pursued specialized training in EMDR, fetal alcohol syndrome, autism, Filial Therapy, and play therapy.
As a committed Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with preschool and elementary age children and their families. Children do not always have the language they need to work through their struggles. If we listen and allow the toys to be their words and play to be their language, they tell us so much. Every child has a unique wonder and light inside of them, sometimes they just need help developing their tools to be their best self. Play is how children express themselves, practice and learn new tasks, and regulate emotions. Many children can benefit from play therapy.
After graduation, I pursued specialized training in EMDR, fetal alcohol syndrome, autism, Filial Therapy, and play therapy.
As a committed Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with preschool and elementary age children and their families. Children do not always have the language they need to work through their struggles. If we listen and allow the toys to be their words and play to be their language, they tell us so much. Every child has a unique wonder and light inside of them, sometimes they just need help developing their tools to be their best self. Play is how children express themselves, practice and learn new tasks, and regulate emotions. Many children can benefit from play therapy.
Nicole Zegiestowsky, M.S. (she/her)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515 (Online Only)
Is living with a chronic illness (or new health diagnosis) becoming more difficult, isolating, or confusing? Are you or your partner expecting a new family member? Are you seeking relief, meaning, validation, new coping skills? My name is Nicole, I believe you are the expert of your life and my role as a therapist is that of a helper (not a fixer). I am passionate about working with Alaskans who wish to do more than "get by;" those who desire to flourish, find ease in self-compassion, & strike a balance between productivity & rest to promote well-being. I often work with: anxiety, PTSD, poor sleep, ADHD/ Autism, & low energy levels
Is living with a chronic illness (or new health diagnosis) becoming more difficult, isolating, or confusing? Are you or your partner expecting a new family member? Are you seeking relief, meaning, validation, new coping skills? My name is Nicole, I believe you are the expert of your life and my role as a therapist is that of a helper (not a fixer). I am passionate about working with Alaskans who wish to do more than "get by;" those who desire to flourish, find ease in self-compassion, & strike a balance between productivity & rest to promote well-being. I often work with: anxiety, PTSD, poor sleep, ADHD/ Autism, & low energy levels
Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I am an early interventionist/child development and disability specialist especially TBI/ABI, Treat Autism Aspergers.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
I am an early interventionist/child development and disability specialist especially TBI/ABI, Treat Autism Aspergers.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
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Nicole Zegiestowsky, M.S. (she/her)
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Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc.
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Anika K Mullen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99504 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD to children with Level 1 or 2 autism and children on the waitlist for autism assessment.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a big transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD to children with Level 1 or 2 autism and children on the waitlist for autism assessment.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a big transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD, to children with Level 1 or 2 autism.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a big transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD, to children with Level 1 or 2 autism.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a big transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
Jennifer Dolphin | Open Door Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99515
Waitlist for new clients
Do you carry old hurts and wonder if you’re good enough? Maybe you struggle with feeling hopeless and unmotivated. You get stuck in cycles you don’t know how to break and feel like you make the same mistakes over and over. You feel overwhelmed with guilt and shame. Maybe you wonder if you’ll ever have healthy relationships. It’s tearing you down from the inside out because you just want to feel content within and connected to others. Whether you're married with kids or single and kid-free; hurt is hurt and you deserve peace.
Do you carry old hurts and wonder if you’re good enough? Maybe you struggle with feeling hopeless and unmotivated. You get stuck in cycles you don’t know how to break and feel like you make the same mistakes over and over. You feel overwhelmed with guilt and shame. Maybe you wonder if you’ll ever have healthy relationships. It’s tearing you down from the inside out because you just want to feel content within and connected to others. Whether you're married with kids or single and kid-free; hurt is hurt and you deserve peace.
Cat (Adhd) Findley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Juneau, AK 99801 (Online Only)
We are called to an authentic life. One where we honor how our adhd brains work instead of forcing our square peg brains into another round hole. I’ve discovered the magic of working with my brain instead of against it. I want to help you do the same. Much of what I learned in grad school doesn’t work for us. My clients are encouraged to show up authentically, even if that’s in pajamas. I’m a pajama forward therapist! I use therapy techniques designed for us including Internal Family Systems (IFS). They get us to the deep work and root of the issues. Take my hand and I’ll journey along side you.
We are called to an authentic life. One where we honor how our adhd brains work instead of forcing our square peg brains into another round hole. I’ve discovered the magic of working with my brain instead of against it. I want to help you do the same. Much of what I learned in grad school doesn’t work for us. My clients are encouraged to show up authentically, even if that’s in pajamas. I’m a pajama forward therapist! I use therapy techniques designed for us including Internal Family Systems (IFS). They get us to the deep work and root of the issues. Take my hand and I’ll journey along side you.
Catherine (Adhd) Findley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kotzebue, AK 99752 (Online Only)
If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you.
If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you.
Peggy Bissing LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654 (Online Only)
I specialize in assisting adult survivors of trauma, with experience supporting first responders, crime victims, and recovering addicts. My services include therapeutic guidance for victims of narcissistic abuse, adult children of alcoholics, and first responders, as well as support for veterans and those seeking outpatient treatment for addictions. My ultimate goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and productive life.
I specialize in assisting adult survivors of trauma, with experience supporting first responders, crime victims, and recovering addicts. My services include therapeutic guidance for victims of narcissistic abuse, adult children of alcoholics, and first responders, as well as support for veterans and those seeking outpatient treatment for addictions. My ultimate goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and productive life.
Lighted Path Therapy Services
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Have you been socially isolated and overwhelmed with life? Do you feel run down, worried, and depleted? Are you hoping for wholeness, happiness, and freedom? These kinds of experiences are painful and exhausting. And without effective care, they can reduce the quality of your life and contribute to long-term health problems. This painful pattern often becomes a downward spiral, which can habitually undermine your joy, intimacy, and hope. You do not have to face this journey alone; choose the professional care you need and deserve. Our talented clinicians at Lighted Path Therapy Services are here to help.
Have you been socially isolated and overwhelmed with life? Do you feel run down, worried, and depleted? Are you hoping for wholeness, happiness, and freedom? These kinds of experiences are painful and exhausting. And without effective care, they can reduce the quality of your life and contribute to long-term health problems. This painful pattern often becomes a downward spiral, which can habitually undermine your joy, intimacy, and hope. You do not have to face this journey alone; choose the professional care you need and deserve. Our talented clinicians at Lighted Path Therapy Services are here to help.
I graduated from Kaplan University with a masters degree in psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis. My personal journey has led me to focus primarily on the stressors that stem from trauma and severe life stressors. I have a passion for helping people heal in order to become the best possible version on themselves. I have experience working with clients both in residential treatment centers and in the community. As a retired military/veterans spouse, I have a firsthand understanding of the unique challenges our military families face; I am dedicated to helping them maneuver the different stages of life.
I graduated from Kaplan University with a masters degree in psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis. My personal journey has led me to focus primarily on the stressors that stem from trauma and severe life stressors. I have a passion for helping people heal in order to become the best possible version on themselves. I have experience working with clients both in residential treatment centers and in the community. As a retired military/veterans spouse, I have a firsthand understanding of the unique challenges our military families face; I am dedicated to helping them maneuver the different stages of life.
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
See more therapy options for Alaska
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.