Autism Therapists in Marana, AZ
Hi, I’m Monica! I specialize in working with children and adolescents who are navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. I’m passionate about supporting those experiencing difficulties related to neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, self-harming behaviors, peer relationships, and trauma. Many of the young people I work with struggle to identify, understand, and express their feelings and needs—and that’s where our work begins. Through a compassionate, individualized approach, I help clients build self-awareness, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop healthy coping strategies.
Hi, I’m Monica! I specialize in working with children and adolescents who are navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. I’m passionate about supporting those experiencing difficulties related to neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, self-harming behaviors, peer relationships, and trauma. Many of the young people I work with struggle to identify, understand, and express their feelings and needs—and that’s where our work begins. Through a compassionate, individualized approach, I help clients build self-awareness, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop healthy coping strategies.
Welcome! If you’re looking for a place where you can feel supported, explore in a safe and non-judgmental environment, and learn new skills to help navigate life’s many challenges, you’ve come to the right place.
Welcome! If you’re looking for a place where you can feel supported, explore in a safe and non-judgmental environment, and learn new skills to help navigate life’s many challenges, you’ve come to the right place.
Welcome! If you’re here, you’re likely seeking support for your child or teen—and that first step can be the hardest. Whether your child is navigating anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, or behavioral challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to guide you through the therapy process with clarity and compassion. I’m Elizabeth Elster, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in clinical and academic settings. I specialize in working with children, teens, and their families using a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approach.
Welcome! If you’re here, you’re likely seeking support for your child or teen—and that first step can be the hardest. Whether your child is navigating anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, or behavioral challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to guide you through the therapy process with clarity and compassion. I’m Elizabeth Elster, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in clinical and academic settings. I specialize in working with children, teens, and their families using a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approach.
As a psychodynamically oriented therapist with forty years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families, I have a passion for my work and a capacity to engage well even with difficult and challenging clients. In addition to people experiencing anxiety, depression and other problems associated with daily living, I have expertise working with individuals and families struggling with PTSD, dissociative disorders, bipolar disorders, and dual diagnoses of substance abuse and mental health problems. I especially enjoy helping adolescents and young adults experiencing identity issues and challenging life transitions.
As a psychodynamically oriented therapist with forty years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families, I have a passion for my work and a capacity to engage well even with difficult and challenging clients. In addition to people experiencing anxiety, depression and other problems associated with daily living, I have expertise working with individuals and families struggling with PTSD, dissociative disorders, bipolar disorders, and dual diagnoses of substance abuse and mental health problems. I especially enjoy helping adolescents and young adults experiencing identity issues and challenging life transitions.
Embracing Change Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
We exist to serve the LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent communities.
We treat adolescents/teens ages 10+, adults, elders, families and couples. We have immediate openings available for therapy, both in person in Glendale and through telehealth anywhere in AZ. We also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to help you heal trauma.
We exist to serve the LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent communities.
We treat adolescents/teens ages 10+, adults, elders, families and couples. We have immediate openings available for therapy, both in person in Glendale and through telehealth anywhere in AZ. We also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to help you heal trauma.
My time as a guide in the Alaskan Rainforest taught me many truths: the thrill of wilderness air, the sacred language of native art, and, perhaps most notably, the realization that all life is inseparably interwoven. As a clinician, I believe that each aspect of a person - their spiritual, mental, physical, and social selves - requires nurturing, and that strength in each individual dimensions uplifts the others - just as the neighboring trees in a forest work harmoniously for one another's good.
My time as a guide in the Alaskan Rainforest taught me many truths: the thrill of wilderness air, the sacred language of native art, and, perhaps most notably, the realization that all life is inseparably interwoven. As a clinician, I believe that each aspect of a person - their spiritual, mental, physical, and social selves - requires nurturing, and that strength in each individual dimensions uplifts the others - just as the neighboring trees in a forest work harmoniously for one another's good.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
More Therapists Nearby
Rachel Sommerfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC-S, ADHD-CP
8 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
Waitlist for new clients
As someone who has used therapy to help me understand, navigate, and unmask Autistic/ADHD traits, I fully believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and can share in the experience of showing up authentically and openly.
Life is messy and overwhelming, even when it looks like we’ve got our shit together! You might be here because you’re exhausted trying to help your child regulate and navigate a world that doesn’t always meet their needs or because you’re craving your own space to breathe, unpack, and feel supported.
My goal is to help you explore your needs and find out what works for you in this season of life, we get creative and look outside of the typical strategies that may not fit your brain. I'd love to help you create small but important changes in your life that feel manageable, sustainable, and genuinely useful to you!
As someone who has used therapy to help me understand, navigate, and unmask Autistic/ADHD traits, I fully believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and can share in the experience of showing up authentically and openly.
Life is messy and overwhelming, even when it looks like we’ve got our shit together! You might be here because you’re exhausted trying to help your child regulate and navigate a world that doesn’t always meet their needs or because you’re craving your own space to breathe, unpack, and feel supported.
My goal is to help you explore your needs and find out what works for you in this season of life, we get creative and look outside of the typical strategies that may not fit your brain. I'd love to help you create small but important changes in your life that feel manageable, sustainable, and genuinely useful to you!
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.
I am neurodivergent myself and have lived experience which informs my practice.
I work with adults to find balance and peace in their daily lives. Each person I work with will feel heard, understood, and taken seriously. I have a background in neuropsychology and psychometry. I am certified in EMDR, the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
I am neurodivergent myself and have lived experience which informs my practice.
I work with adults to find balance and peace in their daily lives. Each person I work with will feel heard, understood, and taken seriously. I have a background in neuropsychology and psychometry. I am certified in EMDR, the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
Whether you're feeling disconnected, struggling to communicate, healing from betrayal, or preparing for a life long commitment, I help couples navigate the complexities for love, partnership, and growth with compassion, clarity, and respect. I welcome couple of all identities and relationship structures including LGBTQIA+ partnerships, neurodiverse couples, and co-parents. My practice is inclusive, affirming, and grounded in the belief that every relationship deserves support that honors the identities and values of all partners.
Whether you're feeling disconnected, struggling to communicate, healing from betrayal, or preparing for a life long commitment, I help couples navigate the complexities for love, partnership, and growth with compassion, clarity, and respect. I welcome couple of all identities and relationship structures including LGBTQIA+ partnerships, neurodiverse couples, and co-parents. My practice is inclusive, affirming, and grounded in the belief that every relationship deserves support that honors the identities and values of all partners.
Hello, my name is Anna, I am a queer neurodivergent therapist, my specialties include sexuality, gender diversity, paraphilias, addiction, complex trauma, autism, and ADHD.
I follow a client-led humanistic acceptance-based model. When we can understand and accept our emotions without applying labels of "good" or "bad", we can use these emotions as tools to meet our needs. I incorporate IFS, DBT, and somatic skills to help identify emotions and Gottman relationship skills to help you with communicating your needs.
Hello, my name is Anna, I am a queer neurodivergent therapist, my specialties include sexuality, gender diversity, paraphilias, addiction, complex trauma, autism, and ADHD.
I follow a client-led humanistic acceptance-based model. When we can understand and accept our emotions without applying labels of "good" or "bad", we can use these emotions as tools to meet our needs. I incorporate IFS, DBT, and somatic skills to help identify emotions and Gottman relationship skills to help you with communicating your needs.
At Olive Branch Counseling, we offer a neurodivergent-affirming space with therapists who use humor and authenticity as the primary tool for connection and change.
We’re passionate about supporting all walks of life, working with ages 5+ through adulthood. We provide individual, couples and family sessions as well as parenting support. Our specialties include children and teens, relationships, self-esteem, burnout, perfectionism, and navigating neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism).
At Olive Branch Counseling, we offer a neurodivergent-affirming space with therapists who use humor and authenticity as the primary tool for connection and change.
We’re passionate about supporting all walks of life, working with ages 5+ through adulthood. We provide individual, couples and family sessions as well as parenting support. Our specialties include children and teens, relationships, self-esteem, burnout, perfectionism, and navigating neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism).
I love working with adults and adolescents on the Autism Spectrum.
My approach to therapy is to listen with a warm and empathic ear so that you can feel heard and begin to heal. I believe you have it within you to grow and change, and my role is to guide therapy and encourage you along the way. I will provide you with feedback and insight and consider myself to be a partner in your healing journey.
I love working with adults and adolescents on the Autism Spectrum.
My approach to therapy is to listen with a warm and empathic ear so that you can feel heard and begin to heal. I believe you have it within you to grow and change, and my role is to guide therapy and encourage you along the way. I will provide you with feedback and insight and consider myself to be a partner in your healing journey.
I provide therapy across the lifespan and have specialized experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum, the LGBTQ+ community, and young children.
For children, external circumstances can be confusing and internal emotions can be overwhelming. I provide a playful, supportive environment where big feelings can be expressed and understood. I also collaborate closely with parents, helping them increase their capacity to connect with their children and hold loving boundaries to support regulation.
I provide therapy across the lifespan and have specialized experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum, the LGBTQ+ community, and young children.
For children, external circumstances can be confusing and internal emotions can be overwhelming. I provide a playful, supportive environment where big feelings can be expressed and understood. I also collaborate closely with parents, helping them increase their capacity to connect with their children and hold loving boundaries to support regulation.
Are you a neurodivergent woman in perimenopause who wakes up already overstimulated, snaps faster than you used to, and feels like your brain and body stopped following the rules overnight?
I work with neurodivergent women in perimenopause using art- and nature-based practices and dreamwork to help you reconnect with who you actually are. We get out of the endless looping stories, back into your body and intuition, and build clarity that sticks—so you feel like yourself again, not stuck explaining why nothing’s helping.
Are you a neurodivergent woman in perimenopause who wakes up already overstimulated, snaps faster than you used to, and feels like your brain and body stopped following the rules overnight?
I work with neurodivergent women in perimenopause using art- and nature-based practices and dreamwork to help you reconnect with who you actually are. We get out of the endless looping stories, back into your body and intuition, and build clarity that sticks—so you feel like yourself again, not stuck explaining why nothing’s helping.
Therapeutic rapport is essential in healing. It is important to allow people to grow in their own time, while holding space for their process. My goal is to promote a safe and comfortable environment to work through past wounds and help in building resilience. I work from an empathetic, but empowering approach. I have worked in many diverse therapeutic populations; with over 15 years of experience. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them grow. I can work with many different presenting issues; including mood dysregulation, substance abuse, relationship struggles, distorted body image, trauma, etc.
Therapeutic rapport is essential in healing. It is important to allow people to grow in their own time, while holding space for their process. My goal is to promote a safe and comfortable environment to work through past wounds and help in building resilience. I work from an empathetic, but empowering approach. I have worked in many diverse therapeutic populations; with over 15 years of experience. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them grow. I can work with many different presenting issues; including mood dysregulation, substance abuse, relationship struggles, distorted body image, trauma, etc.
I've found that this positive, strengths-based approach is often preferred by couples, men, ADHD, autistic, and/or gifted clients.
Powerful changes can happen in people's lives much faster than they think. I practice Solution-Focused Therapy: I help you see the deepest strengths you have, the things that helped you make it this far. We use your joyful experiences, your best skills, your quirks, and your deepest motivations to help you overcome the challenges you face now. It's simple, positive, and fast. You don't have to learn any new jargon. We won't dwell too long on what you think might be wrong with you. Quite the opposite. I'm more interested in learning what you were doing in the moments you believed there was something right with you. That's the target.
I've found that this positive, strengths-based approach is often preferred by couples, men, ADHD, autistic, and/or gifted clients.
Powerful changes can happen in people's lives much faster than they think. I practice Solution-Focused Therapy: I help you see the deepest strengths you have, the things that helped you make it this far. We use your joyful experiences, your best skills, your quirks, and your deepest motivations to help you overcome the challenges you face now. It's simple, positive, and fast. You don't have to learn any new jargon. We won't dwell too long on what you think might be wrong with you. Quite the opposite. I'm more interested in learning what you were doing in the moments you believed there was something right with you. That's the target.
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.
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.
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Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Marana
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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.