Autism Therapists in Oakland, CA

I offer high-quality psychological evaluations and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults, with a specialty in autism, giftedness, ADHD, dyslexia/dyscalculia, dysgraphia, sensory sensitivities, and complex trauma.
I started specializing in neurodivergence as soon as I realized that there were many others who have also struggled to understand who they are and be accepted in a neurotypical society. If like me, you have always felt different, and are now wondering about what makes you different, it may be time for a formal assessment or therapy with a specialist. This is especially important if you are looking for neurodivergent-specific supports (e.g., online groups, books), personalized recommendations (i.e., "what next?", at-home strategies), and accommodations at work/school.
I offer high-quality psychological evaluations and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults, with a specialty in autism, giftedness, ADHD, dyslexia/dyscalculia, dysgraphia, sensory sensitivities, and complex trauma.
I started specializing in neurodivergence as soon as I realized that there were many others who have also struggled to understand who they are and be accepted in a neurotypical society. If like me, you have always felt different, and are now wondering about what makes you different, it may be time for a formal assessment or therapy with a specialist. This is especially important if you are looking for neurodivergent-specific supports (e.g., online groups, books), personalized recommendations (i.e., "what next?", at-home strategies), and accommodations at work/school.

Are you (potentially) neurodivergent and feeling exhausted by daily life? Whether it’s autism, ADHD, auDHD, or something else, you may be wondering why others effortlessly complete tasks while you struggle to catch up. Maybe you’re grieving past experiences and the life you could have had, thinking you wouldn’t feel so lonely or burnt out if you had just figured it out sooner. You are not alone. I’m a neurodivergent therapist, and together we’ll build a personalized toolkit for you to find peace, make friends, and live authentically.
Are you (potentially) neurodivergent and feeling exhausted by daily life? Whether it’s autism, ADHD, auDHD, or something else, you may be wondering why others effortlessly complete tasks while you struggle to catch up. Maybe you’re grieving past experiences and the life you could have had, thinking you wouldn’t feel so lonely or burnt out if you had just figured it out sooner. You are not alone. I’m a neurodivergent therapist, and together we’ll build a personalized toolkit for you to find peace, make friends, and live authentically.

I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.

My specialties include: *Trauma *Adoption *Anxiety *Depression *Parenting *Learning Disorders *Relationship issues *ADHD * Autism spectrum disorder *Sensory Processing Disorder *Psychological Assessments.
People are often hesitant to try therapy because they feel it won't work or believe they should be able to handle difficult things on their own. If you're willing to try personal trainers, babysitters, house cleaners, and other services to better your life, doesn't your emotional happiness or the happiness of your family deserve the same focus? I believe that it absolutely does.
My specialties include: *Trauma *Adoption *Anxiety *Depression *Parenting *Learning Disorders *Relationship issues *ADHD * Autism spectrum disorder *Sensory Processing Disorder *Psychological Assessments.
People are often hesitant to try therapy because they feel it won't work or believe they should be able to handle difficult things on their own. If you're willing to try personal trainers, babysitters, house cleaners, and other services to better your life, doesn't your emotional happiness or the happiness of your family deserve the same focus? I believe that it absolutely does.

My other main areas of focus are addiction, autism, ADHD, and chronic illness (with extensive experience helping people navigate medical gaslighting, HIV/AIDS, TBI, and long-covid).
I'm authentic, direct, and non-hierarchical. I value science equally with the domain of intuition and art. My style is anchored in cognitive science, attachment theory, mindfulness, social justice, parts work, somatic psychology, and archetypes. I'm queer and LGBTQIA+ aligned, and I consider myself an especially huge nerd with evolutionary psychology.
My other main areas of focus are addiction, autism, ADHD, and chronic illness (with extensive experience helping people navigate medical gaslighting, HIV/AIDS, TBI, and long-covid).
I'm authentic, direct, and non-hierarchical. I value science equally with the domain of intuition and art. My style is anchored in cognitive science, attachment theory, mindfulness, social justice, parts work, somatic psychology, and archetypes. I'm queer and LGBTQIA+ aligned, and I consider myself an especially huge nerd with evolutionary psychology.

I have extensive experience of Autism.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to achieve more satisfying, meaningful relationships and social adjustment. I believe therapy is a collaborative, creative process to unveil hidden strengths and courage to motivate change and create new experiences in your life. Creating a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and trusting enough to take personal and emotional risks is important. Through an eclectic approach best suited for my client, I have had success treating a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, past trauma, and grief/loss.
I have extensive experience of Autism.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to achieve more satisfying, meaningful relationships and social adjustment. I believe therapy is a collaborative, creative process to unveil hidden strengths and courage to motivate change and create new experiences in your life. Creating a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and trusting enough to take personal and emotional risks is important. Through an eclectic approach best suited for my client, I have had success treating a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, past trauma, and grief/loss.

Ari Daphne Vinion
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I want to support my clients in feeling whole. This can mean learning how to safely unmask your Autism or ADHD, healing traumas old & new, setting healthy boundaries, strengthening communication with partners, learning new ways to approach challenges without shame, or bringing compassion to chronically ill bodyminds. I specialize in working with neurodivergant people and couples. My young clients enjoy my playful interventions that help them feel confident and proud of being uniquely themselves. My adult clients are relived to tackle challenges without shame and ableism.
I want to support my clients in feeling whole. This can mean learning how to safely unmask your Autism or ADHD, healing traumas old & new, setting healthy boundaries, strengthening communication with partners, learning new ways to approach challenges without shame, or bringing compassion to chronically ill bodyminds. I specialize in working with neurodivergant people and couples. My young clients enjoy my playful interventions that help them feel confident and proud of being uniquely themselves. My adult clients are relived to tackle challenges without shame and ableism.

I offer recommendations for accommodations and interventions to address learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental health challenges, substance abuse, and other issues.
I offer psychotherapy for ages 14 and up and neuropsychological assessment for ages 6 and up. My therapy approach is relational and solution focused and begins with building a mutual understanding of your goals and how those goals will make a positive difference in your life. If aligned with your goals, I may introduce CBT and DBT informed interventions to address specific concerns. My assessments provide comprehensive written reports of clients' learning and mental health profiles, which may be used to document diagnoses so clients receive appropriate accommodations in school and/or on standardized admissions/licensing exams.
I offer recommendations for accommodations and interventions to address learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental health challenges, substance abuse, and other issues.
I offer psychotherapy for ages 14 and up and neuropsychological assessment for ages 6 and up. My therapy approach is relational and solution focused and begins with building a mutual understanding of your goals and how those goals will make a positive difference in your life. If aligned with your goals, I may introduce CBT and DBT informed interventions to address specific concerns. My assessments provide comprehensive written reports of clients' learning and mental health profiles, which may be used to document diagnoses so clients receive appropriate accommodations in school and/or on standardized admissions/licensing exams.

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE BEFORE CONTACTING ME. I offer non-medication-based options such as neurofeedback to address issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. I am a licensed psychologist with specializations in scientifically based assessments such as qEEG Brain Mapping and non-medication based solutions such as neurofeedback, tDCS, TMS, and Auditory Integration Training. I am part of a multidisciplinary group and we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website https://brain123.com to better understand what we do before calling.
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE BEFORE CONTACTING ME. I offer non-medication-based options such as neurofeedback to address issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. I am a licensed psychologist with specializations in scientifically based assessments such as qEEG Brain Mapping and non-medication based solutions such as neurofeedback, tDCS, TMS, and Auditory Integration Training. I am part of a multidisciplinary group and we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website https://brain123.com to better understand what we do before calling.

I provide services for 3 types of issues: 1) OCD, OCD-Spectrum Disorders (e.g., Tics, hair pulling, skin picking, and hoarding), and anxiety disorders; 2) Autism of all support levels; and 3) OCD, OCD-Spectrum Disorders, and anxiety co-occuring with Autism. My work is with children, teens, and adults and I provide services in office, home, and community settings ranging from once weekly to daily sessions. I take a family-based approach when treating children and teens by giving parent and caregiver training.
I provide services for 3 types of issues: 1) OCD, OCD-Spectrum Disorders (e.g., Tics, hair pulling, skin picking, and hoarding), and anxiety disorders; 2) Autism of all support levels; and 3) OCD, OCD-Spectrum Disorders, and anxiety co-occuring with Autism. My work is with children, teens, and adults and I provide services in office, home, and community settings ranging from once weekly to daily sessions. I take a family-based approach when treating children and teens by giving parent and caregiver training.

I am committed to affirming the LGBTQQI+ community, as well as individuals on the Autism Spectrum and those who self-identify as neurodivergent.
You deserve to be seen, heard, and truly understood. My practice is rooted in creating a compassionate, empowering space where you can explore your dreams, desires, needs, and challenges without judgment. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of race, gender, or sexual orientation, I offer a deeply empathetic and culturally competent approach tailored to your unique experiences. I specialize in working with Black, POC, Queer, and neurodivergent individuals, acknowledging the impact that societal intersections can have on mental health. Together, we’ll build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and mutual growth.
I am committed to affirming the LGBTQQI+ community, as well as individuals on the Autism Spectrum and those who self-identify as neurodivergent.
You deserve to be seen, heard, and truly understood. My practice is rooted in creating a compassionate, empowering space where you can explore your dreams, desires, needs, and challenges without judgment. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of race, gender, or sexual orientation, I offer a deeply empathetic and culturally competent approach tailored to your unique experiences. I specialize in working with Black, POC, Queer, and neurodivergent individuals, acknowledging the impact that societal intersections can have on mental health. Together, we’ll build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and mutual growth.
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I specialize in diagnosing learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, mood and behavioral challenges in children.
Do you have concerns regarding your child's learning, mood, or behavior? Is your child having difficulty making or maintaining friendships? Allow me to partner with you, to help your child receive support. I am available to help you better understand your child's needs and the various services available to help them.
I specialize in diagnosing learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, mood and behavioral challenges in children.
Do you have concerns regarding your child's learning, mood, or behavior? Is your child having difficulty making or maintaining friendships? Allow me to partner with you, to help your child receive support. I am available to help you better understand your child's needs and the various services available to help them.

If your child is struggling in school, psycho-educational testing is the first step in understanding your child's needs. As a licensed educational psychologist, I specialize in psycho-educational testing and school meetings. I have extensive experience in both assessment and intervention of psychological disorders impacting learning and school performance such dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, autism and emotional disturbance.
If your child is struggling in school, psycho-educational testing is the first step in understanding your child's needs. As a licensed educational psychologist, I specialize in psycho-educational testing and school meetings. I have extensive experience in both assessment and intervention of psychological disorders impacting learning and school performance such dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, autism and emotional disturbance.

I virtually meet CA clients, and I accept 9 insurances and also private fees. If you’re facing challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, or low confidence, due to autism, or ADHD—I’m here to help. I also support those experiencing frustration in their early careers or career transitions. Additionally, I assist you with personal life challenges, such as building healthy relationships or the risk of divorce. Feel free to reach out to me. My goal is to help you navigate these challenges and improve your overall quality of life. The best way to contact me is via email. If calling, please leave a voice message.
I virtually meet CA clients, and I accept 9 insurances and also private fees. If you’re facing challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, or low confidence, due to autism, or ADHD—I’m here to help. I also support those experiencing frustration in their early careers or career transitions. Additionally, I assist you with personal life challenges, such as building healthy relationships or the risk of divorce. Feel free to reach out to me. My goal is to help you navigate these challenges and improve your overall quality of life. The best way to contact me is via email. If calling, please leave a voice message.

Do you suspect that you may be neurodivergent in some way but are worried that a neuropsychological assessment may miss something about your unique situation? Or have you been invalidated by other professionals who brushed off your concerns or didn't truly listen to you?
I provide Neurodiversity-Affirming Adult Autism, ADHD, and General Neurotype Assessments as an alternative to the pathologizing and deficit-based approach used in most neuropsychological assessments. My process is designed to be supportive and collaborative, and to look closely at your unique history and presentation to get to the root of what is going on.
Do you suspect that you may be neurodivergent in some way but are worried that a neuropsychological assessment may miss something about your unique situation? Or have you been invalidated by other professionals who brushed off your concerns or didn't truly listen to you?
I provide Neurodiversity-Affirming Adult Autism, ADHD, and General Neurotype Assessments as an alternative to the pathologizing and deficit-based approach used in most neuropsychological assessments. My process is designed to be supportive and collaborative, and to look closely at your unique history and presentation to get to the root of what is going on.

Allyson Gayle Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, BCBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience serving individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental, intellectual, and mental health disabilities, as well as supporting, collaborating, and coordinating care with their families and other service providers.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience serving individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental, intellectual, and mental health disabilities, as well as supporting, collaborating, and coordinating care with their families and other service providers.

I support people of all ages with personal or relationship challenges, mood/anxiety disorders, neuro-developmental differences (ADHD/ Autism) and provide educational counseling and advocacy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
I support people of all ages with personal or relationship challenges, mood/anxiety disorders, neuro-developmental differences (ADHD/ Autism) and provide educational counseling and advocacy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.

I am passionate about helping individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues as well as anyone who is neurodiverse (ADHD/ Autism) and looking to better understand neurodivergence. I am able to build relationships quickly with my clients by getting to know their unique interests and making them feel comfortable. I incorporate a blend of directiveness, warmth, and humor within my counseling style. When working with minors I collaborate with parents and other professionals to provide education on childhood development and behavioral support to support academic success and improve family relationships.
I am passionate about helping individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues as well as anyone who is neurodiverse (ADHD/ Autism) and looking to better understand neurodivergence. I am able to build relationships quickly with my clients by getting to know their unique interests and making them feel comfortable. I incorporate a blend of directiveness, warmth, and humor within my counseling style. When working with minors I collaborate with parents and other professionals to provide education on childhood development and behavioral support to support academic success and improve family relationships.

Testing for Autism and therapy can help provide validation and answers for what may help you succeed.
I specialize in working with neurodiverse adults through virtual therapy and formal Autism testing. I’ve worked with people on the Autism spectrum for a decade and served as the Autism specialist for two medical centers including Kaiser Santa Clara.
Testing for Autism and therapy can help provide validation and answers for what may help you succeed.
I specialize in working with neurodiverse adults through virtual therapy and formal Autism testing. I’ve worked with people on the Autism spectrum for a decade and served as the Autism specialist for two medical centers including Kaiser Santa Clara.

Leanne Azevedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 97516
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I LOVE TO WORK WITH: Adults, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Relationship & Communication Difficulties, Life Adjustments & Life Purpose, Empaths & Highly Sensitive People.
My hope is that the safe and supportive environment I seek to create will be a place where you can openly process difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me in therapy, I will assist you in finding the tools and skills needed to live your life more effectively. I know that the challenges you may be facing right now can feel really big and overwhelming and I am here to sit with you in your pain and to help you make positive changes in your life, in part by accessing the wisdom and strength you already hold within.
I LOVE TO WORK WITH: Adults, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Relationship & Communication Difficulties, Life Adjustments & Life Purpose, Empaths & Highly Sensitive People.
My hope is that the safe and supportive environment I seek to create will be a place where you can openly process difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me in therapy, I will assist you in finding the tools and skills needed to live your life more effectively. I know that the challenges you may be facing right now can feel really big and overwhelming and I am here to sit with you in your pain and to help you make positive changes in your life, in part by accessing the wisdom and strength you already hold within.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
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.