Autism Therapists in Fort Wayne, IN

Photo of Erica Woodward, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
I support neurodivergent adults with ADHD, Autism, trauma, and chronic health issues.
Navigating life as a neurodivergent adult with trauma or chronic health issues can sometimes feel isolating. If you're looking for understanding and practical support, you've come to the right place. In a welcoming environment, we’ll dive into your experiences and develop personalized strategies that work for you. Together, we’ll focus on enhancing emotional regulation, strengthening relationships, and achieving your goals.
I support neurodivergent adults with ADHD, Autism, trauma, and chronic health issues.
Navigating life as a neurodivergent adult with trauma or chronic health issues can sometimes feel isolating. If you're looking for understanding and practical support, you've come to the right place. In a welcoming environment, we’ll dive into your experiences and develop personalized strategies that work for you. Together, we’ll focus on enhancing emotional regulation, strengthening relationships, and achieving your goals.
(260) 782-1357 View (260) 782-1357
Photo of Deb Pardue, MS Ed, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deb Pardue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS Ed, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46801  (Online Only)
From birth to death, life is a constant transition. I work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families, who are experiencing a wide range of symptoms including infidelity, breakdowns in communication, high functioning Autism, trauma, sexual abuse issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and grief. I have extensively researched issues and stressors that today's LGBTQ+ clients and families may be experiencing, and work with transgender clients to gain the appropriate gender affirming care.
From birth to death, life is a constant transition. I work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families, who are experiencing a wide range of symptoms including infidelity, breakdowns in communication, high functioning Autism, trauma, sexual abuse issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and grief. I have extensively researched issues and stressors that today's LGBTQ+ clients and families may be experiencing, and work with transgender clients to gain the appropriate gender affirming care.
(812) 272-2782 View (812) 272-2782
Photo of Jay Bastian, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Bastian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Jay offers private psychotherapy at a rate of $80 per hour. This can be in person or virtual. He is also working with Dr. Spencer Booth, PsyD, HSPP to provide timely compassionate assessment for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, depressive disorder, and more. He specializes in assessment, cognitive behavioral therapy and task-centered therapy addressing anxiety, depression, and maladaptive behaviors, including addictions. Jay utilizes art-based interventions designed to help clients connect with their creative selves. Jay is a welcoming, affirming therapist for LGBTQ clients.
Jay offers private psychotherapy at a rate of $80 per hour. This can be in person or virtual. He is also working with Dr. Spencer Booth, PsyD, HSPP to provide timely compassionate assessment for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, depressive disorder, and more. He specializes in assessment, cognitive behavioral therapy and task-centered therapy addressing anxiety, depression, and maladaptive behaviors, including addictions. Jay utilizes art-based interventions designed to help clients connect with their creative selves. Jay is a welcoming, affirming therapist for LGBTQ clients.
(260) 254-1629 View (260) 254-1629
Photo of Tami Booth, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tami Booth
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
I am comfortable working with a wide variety of populations, including those with mood disorders, trauma, those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as LGBTQIA populations.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, who primarily sees adult populations, as well as couples/various dynamics. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual respect and trust. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and shame free environment to explore all aspects of the self. I am a firm believer that by helping each person become comfortable being themselves, the rest of life's struggles are much easier to process. I primarily utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my approach.
I am comfortable working with a wide variety of populations, including those with mood disorders, trauma, those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as LGBTQIA populations.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, who primarily sees adult populations, as well as couples/various dynamics. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual respect and trust. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and shame free environment to explore all aspects of the self. I am a firm believer that by helping each person become comfortable being themselves, the rest of life's struggles are much easier to process. I primarily utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my approach.
(260) 296-2662 View (260) 296-2662
Photo of Peter Dodzik, PsyD, ABPdN, ABN, Psychologist
Peter Dodzik
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPdN, ABN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
I am currently involved in research related to pharmacological treatment of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, surgical treatment for Parkinson's disease, and the assessment of developmental dyslexia, autism, Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children and adults with neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders. My particular practice specialties include dementing disorders, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, dyslexia, pervasive developmental disorders and children with complex medical conditions such as epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, genetic and toxic/metabolic disorders. I am a Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at Indiana University Medical School in Fort Wayne, Indiana where I teach courses in psychiatry to second year medical students including lectures on autism, Asperger's Syndrome and neurodevelopmental conditions. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Schaumburg, IL.
I am currently involved in research related to pharmacological treatment of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, surgical treatment for Parkinson's disease, and the assessment of developmental dyslexia, autism, Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children and adults with neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders. My particular practice specialties include dementing disorders, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, dyslexia, pervasive developmental disorders and children with complex medical conditions such as epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, genetic and toxic/metabolic disorders. I am a Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at Indiana University Medical School in Fort Wayne, Indiana where I teach courses in psychiatry to second year medical students including lectures on autism, Asperger's Syndrome and neurodevelopmental conditions. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Schaumburg, IL.
(260) 460-3203 View (260) 460-3203
Photo of Willow Center For Healing - Willow Center For Healing, EMDR, Trauma, Anxiety, Counselor
Willow Center For Healing
Counselor, EMDR, Trauma, Anxiety
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
We offer in-person & tele-health across the lifespan from toddlers to seniors. We offer family, individual, & couples' counseling. We believe the decision to seek therapy is a courageous step. Although the initial decision can be frightening and stressful, it's our intention to instill hope, foster growth and cultivate healing in your life. The most important aspect to your choice in finding the right counselor is your ability to feel emotionally safe and vulnerable in session. Feeling heard, connected, and validated in a non-judgemental environment is the best predictor to having a successful counseling experience.
We offer in-person & tele-health across the lifespan from toddlers to seniors. We offer family, individual, & couples' counseling. We believe the decision to seek therapy is a courageous step. Although the initial decision can be frightening and stressful, it's our intention to instill hope, foster growth and cultivate healing in your life. The most important aspect to your choice in finding the right counselor is your ability to feel emotionally safe and vulnerable in session. Feeling heard, connected, and validated in a non-judgemental environment is the best predictor to having a successful counseling experience.
(260) 440-8223 View (260) 440-8223
Photo of Bree Ricker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bree Ricker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
As a clinical social worker, Bree’s approach to the therapeutic process is rooted in valuing the dignity and worth of each person. Bree works with teenagers, adults and families who experience anxiety, depression, trauma and co-occuring disorders. She uses a strength-based and empowerment approach to guide individuals towards their own goals. Bree believes in the process of understanding, growth and healing and values the opportunity to connect and witness this process with each individual. Bree is also experienced in behavior modification for individuals with developmental and cognitive delays.
As a clinical social worker, Bree’s approach to the therapeutic process is rooted in valuing the dignity and worth of each person. Bree works with teenagers, adults and families who experience anxiety, depression, trauma and co-occuring disorders. She uses a strength-based and empowerment approach to guide individuals towards their own goals. Bree believes in the process of understanding, growth and healing and values the opportunity to connect and witness this process with each individual. Bree is also experienced in behavior modification for individuals with developmental and cognitive delays.
(260) 230-8219 View (260) 230-8219
Emily H Cook
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
I am a general therapist who is EMDR trained. I have extensive experience in trauma, family counseling, counseling for families who have an addicted loved one, teen issues, families with members who have unique abilities, I am a trained in counseling of the elderly and aging issues. I am a licensed mediator with the state of Indiana and consult on domestic family and community concerns. I offer both in-session and online visits.
I am a general therapist who is EMDR trained. I have extensive experience in trauma, family counseling, counseling for families who have an addicted loved one, teen issues, families with members who have unique abilities, I am a trained in counseling of the elderly and aging issues. I am a licensed mediator with the state of Indiana and consult on domestic family and community concerns. I offer both in-session and online visits.
(260) 250-4056 View (260) 250-4056
Photo of Diana Lightfoot, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Lightfoot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Diana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individuals to help them overcome obstacles and reach their goals. She believes that everyone has unique strengths and abilities, and is capable of using their strengths to improve their lives. She works with her clients to create small wins, building trust through empathy and understanding. She connects with each individual in a a way that works for them. She lives for those moments of connection and progress, and draws tremendous joy and contentment from them
Diana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individuals to help them overcome obstacles and reach their goals. She believes that everyone has unique strengths and abilities, and is capable of using their strengths to improve their lives. She works with her clients to create small wins, building trust through empathy and understanding. She connects with each individual in a a way that works for them. She lives for those moments of connection and progress, and draws tremendous joy and contentment from them
(260) 235-5141 View (260) 235-5141
Photo of Donovan Dunn - Dunn Associates, P.C., Counselor
Dunn Associates, P.C.
Counselor
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Dunn Associates, P.C. is a private multidisciplinary group practice specializing in expert Psychological, Counseling, and Psychiatric services to children, adolescents and adults. Our private facility is specifically designed to ensure that your care will always remain confidential. Dunn Associates, P.C. clinicians are continuously developing new evidence based practices and techniques that take advantage of our more than 75 years of combined experience providing you with the expert treatment you deserve. Please don't hesitate to call our office with any questions or concerns. We look forward to working with you.
Dunn Associates, P.C. is a private multidisciplinary group practice specializing in expert Psychological, Counseling, and Psychiatric services to children, adolescents and adults. Our private facility is specifically designed to ensure that your care will always remain confidential. Dunn Associates, P.C. clinicians are continuously developing new evidence based practices and techniques that take advantage of our more than 75 years of combined experience providing you with the expert treatment you deserve. Please don't hesitate to call our office with any questions or concerns. We look forward to working with you.
(260) 338-4061 View (260) 338-4061
Photo of Janet Eggiman, RN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Eggiman
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
The Coronavirus has drastically disrupted all of our lives. Teletherapy is the method I am now using to stay connected to current and new patients. Depression, anxiety, anger, and behavior problems can happen to anyone, especially during this time of social distancing, uncertainty, and fear. Emotional support and understanding can reduce stress and guide you to new sense of normal. Healthcare workers, essential workers, parents, individuals, couples, and children can get guidance and treatment now.
The Coronavirus has drastically disrupted all of our lives. Teletherapy is the method I am now using to stay connected to current and new patients. Depression, anxiety, anger, and behavior problems can happen to anyone, especially during this time of social distancing, uncertainty, and fear. Emotional support and understanding can reduce stress and guide you to new sense of normal. Healthcare workers, essential workers, parents, individuals, couples, and children can get guidance and treatment now.
(260) 255-4977 View (260) 255-4977
Photo of Jule L. Godsey, LCAC, MMHC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jule L. Godsey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAC, MMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Well done for taking the first step in to getting the support you need by accessing my website. I understand this can feel daunting and there is a lot of information for you to consider, so I have tried to make this site as helpful as possible. Feel free to browse through. My therapy room is in a private, professional and confidential setting. I believe in a holistic approach of mind and body working together for the good. I have over 35 years experience in counseling, working with adults, couples, littles, young children, adolescent and elders.
Well done for taking the first step in to getting the support you need by accessing my website. I understand this can feel daunting and there is a lot of information for you to consider, so I have tried to make this site as helpful as possible. Feel free to browse through. My therapy room is in a private, professional and confidential setting. I believe in a holistic approach of mind and body working together for the good. I have over 35 years experience in counseling, working with adults, couples, littles, young children, adolescent and elders.
(260) 236-8071 View (260) 236-8071
Photo of Laura Overholser - Cook Behavioral Health
Cook Behavioral Health
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Are you struggling to find answers to daily problems? Are you dealing with issues and feel completely alone and overwhelmed? Is it hard to get out of bed and motivate to get the day started? Is it terrifying to go out in society, yet lonely staying home? Call Cook Behavioral Health and let us help you find the answers to your problems.
Are you struggling to find answers to daily problems? Are you dealing with issues and feel completely alone and overwhelmed? Is it hard to get out of bed and motivate to get the day started? Is it terrifying to go out in society, yet lonely staying home? Call Cook Behavioral Health and let us help you find the answers to your problems.
(260) 483-2400 View (260) 483-2400
Photo of Franchesca Huffman, LMHC, MSEd
Franchesca Huffman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
I work with children, families, parents, teens, and adults and strive to help them overcome challenges and hardships in their lives such as anxiety, depression, grief, adjustment and transition concerns, trauma, and many other mental health concerns. I seek to build a strong trusting relationship with my clients so that we can work together to work on some of life's harder issues.
I work with children, families, parents, teens, and adults and strive to help them overcome challenges and hardships in their lives such as anxiety, depression, grief, adjustment and transition concerns, trauma, and many other mental health concerns. I seek to build a strong trusting relationship with my clients so that we can work together to work on some of life's harder issues.
(260) 782-1265 View (260) 782-1265
Photo of Vicki Kelsey - Fort Wayne Neurofeedback, LLC, DC, BCN
Fort Wayne Neurofeedback, LLC
DC, BCN
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46814
I help people who are struggling at work, who feel like work must be easier for everyone else, and kids and other students of all ages who have ADHD or trouble learning. I also help middle-aged people with memory problems who want to prevent dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. My other main focus areas are traumatic brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, Bell's Palsy, and panic attacks. I have had amazing results. I understand that this sounds too good to be true - that's what I thought at first, too. Call if you would like an appointment for a free consultation.
I help people who are struggling at work, who feel like work must be easier for everyone else, and kids and other students of all ages who have ADHD or trouble learning. I also help middle-aged people with memory problems who want to prevent dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. My other main focus areas are traumatic brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, Bell's Palsy, and panic attacks. I have had amazing results. I understand that this sounds too good to be true - that's what I thought at first, too. Call if you would like an appointment for a free consultation.
(260) 344-7030 View (260) 344-7030
Photo of Christine F. Goss, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christine F. Goss
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Everyone needs a space where they feel their thoughts and feelings matter. I aim to create a space where people can explore what's on their mind without fear of judgment. I’m experienced with EMDR and Internal Family Systems informed care, which are powerful approaches that help people to process trauma and become a wiser, more balanced version of themselves. I specialize in treating PTSD, issues with dissociation, LGBTQ+, and anxiety/depression. I also enjoy working with addictions or those who are in recovery from addictions, as well as with children and teens.
Everyone needs a space where they feel their thoughts and feelings matter. I aim to create a space where people can explore what's on their mind without fear of judgment. I’m experienced with EMDR and Internal Family Systems informed care, which are powerful approaches that help people to process trauma and become a wiser, more balanced version of themselves. I specialize in treating PTSD, issues with dissociation, LGBTQ+, and anxiety/depression. I also enjoy working with addictions or those who are in recovery from addictions, as well as with children and teens.
(260) 235-5134 View (260) 235-5134
Photo of Jade Milliman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Milliman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Jade is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with adults. She believes in harnessing a person’s inner strengths to create change and improve their lives. She offers a safe, non-judgemental space for individuals, as they work towards their goals. She works to build deep, meaningful connections with each of her clients and celebrates alongside them at each milestone and victory.
Jade is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with adults. She believes in harnessing a person’s inner strengths to create change and improve their lives. She offers a safe, non-judgemental space for individuals, as they work towards their goals. She works to build deep, meaningful connections with each of her clients and celebrates alongside them at each milestone and victory.
(260) 254-3262 View (260) 254-3262
Photo of Dee Walters, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Dee Walters
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Currently offering: Master's level evaluations, diagnostics, and treatment. Beginning the journey towards better mental health can be challenging and rewarding. As a counselor, I am here to walk alongside you as you begin this journey and provide the necessary tools. I am a client-centered therapist with a holistic theoretical orientation and an integrative approach. I am currently specializing in children and adolescents. How can I help you and your kiddos achieve your goals today? Calling through this website will email notify me or leave a message at my extension (260) 471-8141 x140
Currently offering: Master's level evaluations, diagnostics, and treatment. Beginning the journey towards better mental health can be challenging and rewarding. As a counselor, I am here to walk alongside you as you begin this journey and provide the necessary tools. I am a client-centered therapist with a holistic theoretical orientation and an integrative approach. I am currently specializing in children and adolescents. How can I help you and your kiddos achieve your goals today? Calling through this website will email notify me or leave a message at my extension (260) 471-8141 x140
(260) 238-8949 View (260) 238-8949
Photo of Russell Mynhier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Russell Mynhier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
This crazy journey called life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, searching for answers we can’t seem to find, or dealt a blow from which it feels impossible to recover. Counseling could aid you in breaking life down into more manageable pieces, inject a fresh perspective inspiring hope, guide you to finding the answers you are looking for, or teach you how to pick yourself up after a particularly brutal blow. Whatever the challenges you face, know there is hope and you are worth fighting for. I want you to know you are not broken, and you don’t need fixing; instead counseling can guide, teach, and revitalize your life.
This crazy journey called life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, searching for answers we can’t seem to find, or dealt a blow from which it feels impossible to recover. Counseling could aid you in breaking life down into more manageable pieces, inject a fresh perspective inspiring hope, guide you to finding the answers you are looking for, or teach you how to pick yourself up after a particularly brutal blow. Whatever the challenges you face, know there is hope and you are worth fighting for. I want you to know you are not broken, and you don’t need fixing; instead counseling can guide, teach, and revitalize your life.
(260) 202-1366 View (260) 202-1366
Photo of Shannon R Colburn-Blinn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon R Colburn-Blinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
I know that seeking help is often a difficult decision whether it's for yourself or your loved one. I commend you on your choice to strive for a healthier life. It is important to me that I provide an accepting, comforting environment that allows you to feel safe when discussing difficult topics. As a social worker, I am very client-focused. You are the expert in your life and I want to join with you to enhance your strengths and prepare for a brighter future. Stop waiting and schedule an appointment today! Evening and weekend appointments available.
I know that seeking help is often a difficult decision whether it's for yourself or your loved one. I commend you on your choice to strive for a healthier life. It is important to me that I provide an accepting, comforting environment that allows you to feel safe when discussing difficult topics. As a social worker, I am very client-focused. You are the expert in your life and I want to join with you to enhance your strengths and prepare for a brighter future. Stop waiting and schedule an appointment today! Evening and weekend appointments available.
(260) 888-8307 View (260) 888-8307
1
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.