Autism Therapists in Branford, CT
For neurodivergent clients and their families, I help understand their neurodivergence from a framework of acceptance and how to navigate in a neurotypical world from a variety of approaches.
Are you looking for an engaged, dynamic therapist for yourself or your child? Someone who will help understand the "why" behind the "what" instead of only suggesting band-aids? Are you searching for support with experience who will truly get to know you and help you move through healing? We may be a good fit.
I am a therapist with twenty years experience working with children and their families, adolescents, and young adults, working from a person-centered approach- meaning an empathic, responsive connection to help aid in healing.
For neurodivergent clients and their families, I help understand their neurodivergence from a framework of acceptance and how to navigate in a neurotypical world from a variety of approaches.
Are you looking for an engaged, dynamic therapist for yourself or your child? Someone who will help understand the "why" behind the "what" instead of only suggesting band-aids? Are you searching for support with experience who will truly get to know you and help you move through healing? We may be a good fit.
I am a therapist with twenty years experience working with children and their families, adolescents, and young adults, working from a person-centered approach- meaning an empathic, responsive connection to help aid in healing.
My passion is working with adolescents, families seeking to strengthen bonds and foster healthier relational dynamics, and young adults in navigating and better understanding their life story. I implement a trauma-informed therapeutic approach to support my client’s in processing traumas from their past and supporting them in reaching their goals for the future. My approach combines psycho-education, advocacy and family support to foster emotional regulation, stability, and independence. Through evidence-based interventions, I empower clients to build resilience, gain insight, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
My passion is working with adolescents, families seeking to strengthen bonds and foster healthier relational dynamics, and young adults in navigating and better understanding their life story. I implement a trauma-informed therapeutic approach to support my client’s in processing traumas from their past and supporting them in reaching their goals for the future. My approach combines psycho-education, advocacy and family support to foster emotional regulation, stability, and independence. Through evidence-based interventions, I empower clients to build resilience, gain insight, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
Nina Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
Waitlist for new clients
I feel honored to do this work and have much experience working succesfully with kids of all ages, parents and adults. Finding the right therapist is much like finding the right pair of jeans....you want to make sure they fit well. Every counselor will have his/her own style which may not feel comfortable for every person. I offer a multi-step evaluation process, before we agree to longer-term work. If my style of work isn't well- matched to your needs, I'll help you find someone else who is.
I feel honored to do this work and have much experience working succesfully with kids of all ages, parents and adults. Finding the right therapist is much like finding the right pair of jeans....you want to make sure they fit well. Every counselor will have his/her own style which may not feel comfortable for every person. I offer a multi-step evaluation process, before we agree to longer-term work. If my style of work isn't well- matched to your needs, I'll help you find someone else who is.
As a queer, neurodivergent human, I know what it's like to search for a therapist who can relate to lived experiences - connection is the foundation of any relationship, especially a therapeutic one.
My approach: person-centered, compassion focused, trauma-informed, health at every size (HAES), all foods fit & intuitive eating models. I believe in body neutrality & body liberation; all bodies & identities are welcome. I specialize in the treatment/management of eating disorders, gender-affirming care, & EMDR trained for those seeking therapy for trauma.
As a queer, neurodivergent human, I know what it's like to search for a therapist who can relate to lived experiences - connection is the foundation of any relationship, especially a therapeutic one.
My approach: person-centered, compassion focused, trauma-informed, health at every size (HAES), all foods fit & intuitive eating models. I believe in body neutrality & body liberation; all bodies & identities are welcome. I specialize in the treatment/management of eating disorders, gender-affirming care, & EMDR trained for those seeking therapy for trauma.
My ideal client is someone feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They may face relationship challenges, low self-esteem, or past trauma that impacts their daily life. They need a safe space to process emotions, gain self-awareness, and develop healthier coping strategies. They are willing to engage in discussions that will create greater emotional balance, improve relationships, and create a stronger sense of self. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes—because they’re ready to heal and build a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They may face relationship challenges, low self-esteem, or past trauma that impacts their daily life. They need a safe space to process emotions, gain self-awareness, and develop healthier coping strategies. They are willing to engage in discussions that will create greater emotional balance, improve relationships, and create a stronger sense of self. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes—because they’re ready to heal and build a more fulfilling life.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy. I provide a safe and affirming environment in which you can explore your emotions and work towards growth and healing.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy. I provide a safe and affirming environment in which you can explore your emotions and work towards growth and healing.
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
There comes a point when pushing through no longer works. When anxiety feels louder than your inner voice, old wounds start resurfacing, or life shifts in ways that leave you unsteady. If you’re feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone.
I offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can slow down, listen inward, and begin to understand what your mind and body have been holding. Together, we gently untangle patterns that no longer serve you, tend to the parts of you that learned to survive, and strengthen the parts of you that are ready to thrive.
There comes a point when pushing through no longer works. When anxiety feels louder than your inner voice, old wounds start resurfacing, or life shifts in ways that leave you unsteady. If you’re feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone.
I offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can slow down, listen inward, and begin to understand what your mind and body have been holding. Together, we gently untangle patterns that no longer serve you, tend to the parts of you that learned to survive, and strengthen the parts of you that are ready to thrive.
Have you wondered if your child would benefit from video therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. You can talk to me about anything. I help children and families work through difficulties and empower them to become their own therapists by learning how to manage life’s challenges. I work well with parents, children, and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, academic, social, body image, and addiction issues. My approach is solution-focused, compassionate, and down-to-earth. Clients often report noticeable improvement early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if your child would benefit from video therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. You can talk to me about anything. I help children and families work through difficulties and empower them to become their own therapists by learning how to manage life’s challenges. I work well with parents, children, and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, academic, social, body image, and addiction issues. My approach is solution-focused, compassionate, and down-to-earth. Clients often report noticeable improvement early on in treatment.
Intensives ( 1 or 2 day), individual, pair-couple, family focus. I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with Counseling, Coaching, Integrative Therapies, 28 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life's needs. Be understood. Specializing in Family, Couple Enhancement, Women, Men, Children.
Integrative Therapies, Prenatal-Postpartum Parent- Child, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Creative Performers and Leaders, First Responders.
Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs),
Turn doubt, anxiety, stress around. It's a pleasure looking at life's journey and relationships, with the right person.
Intensives ( 1 or 2 day), individual, pair-couple, family focus. I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with Counseling, Coaching, Integrative Therapies, 28 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life's needs. Be understood. Specializing in Family, Couple Enhancement, Women, Men, Children.
Integrative Therapies, Prenatal-Postpartum Parent- Child, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Creative Performers and Leaders, First Responders.
Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs),
Turn doubt, anxiety, stress around. It's a pleasure looking at life's journey and relationships, with the right person.
Making an informed choice in selection of your therapist is your first step in achieving your goals. In the field for 25+ years, I am licensed both as a Clinical Social Worker and a Drug and Alcohol Counselor with post-graduate training in Marriage and Family Therapy. As a Substance Abuse Counselor, I am flexible and work with persons seeking abstinence as well as those working toward harm reduction. Certified as a School Social Worker to work with children with special needs, I can assist in navigating the Educational System and can collaborate with family and school around issues impacting performance or socialization with peer.
Making an informed choice in selection of your therapist is your first step in achieving your goals. In the field for 25+ years, I am licensed both as a Clinical Social Worker and a Drug and Alcohol Counselor with post-graduate training in Marriage and Family Therapy. As a Substance Abuse Counselor, I am flexible and work with persons seeking abstinence as well as those working toward harm reduction. Certified as a School Social Worker to work with children with special needs, I can assist in navigating the Educational System and can collaborate with family and school around issues impacting performance or socialization with peer.
Does your child suffer from anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorder, attention deficit disorder, oppositional disorder, autistic syndrome, obsessive compulsive disorder, or a learning disorder?
As Director of the Division of School Curriculum in Maine's State Deparment , I established the first Special Education programs.in all public and private schools .. Later , as Professor of Clinical Psychology I trained Graduate Students for Psychological Licensure, focusing on careful, gentle approaches to child evaluation and treatment.
Does your child suffer from anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorder, attention deficit disorder, oppositional disorder, autistic syndrome, obsessive compulsive disorder, or a learning disorder?
As Director of the Division of School Curriculum in Maine's State Deparment , I established the first Special Education programs.in all public and private schools .. Later , as Professor of Clinical Psychology I trained Graduate Students for Psychological Licensure, focusing on careful, gentle approaches to child evaluation and treatment.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or even ashamed by thoughts or behaviors that don’t seem to make sense—but that you can’t seem to control. Maybe you’re spending hours stuck in mental loops, battling urges to pick, pull, or repeat movements or sounds. I specialize in helping individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) like hair pulling & skin picking, and tic disorders, including Tourette’s Syndrome. They aren't habits or choices—they're neurobehavioral conditions. Feels confusing and isolating—but with the right tools and support, you can experience real relief.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or even ashamed by thoughts or behaviors that don’t seem to make sense—but that you can’t seem to control. Maybe you’re spending hours stuck in mental loops, battling urges to pick, pull, or repeat movements or sounds. I specialize in helping individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) like hair pulling & skin picking, and tic disorders, including Tourette’s Syndrome. They aren't habits or choices—they're neurobehavioral conditions. Feels confusing and isolating—but with the right tools and support, you can experience real relief.
If someone asks you how you think you’re doing in your life, what would you say? We may see signs that our life has gotten off course. Sometimes, others share their concerns for us, but we believe we can manage it ourselves. I meet each client where they are on their journey. Some have endured a difficult past or ongoing stress. Others have been through a traumatic event such as an accident, or the loss of a loved one through death or a break-up. Often, we don't recognize the impact of emotional toll, disguised as anxiety or other symptoms. My work helps you to connect the dots, providing support as you (re)build your best life.
If someone asks you how you think you’re doing in your life, what would you say? We may see signs that our life has gotten off course. Sometimes, others share their concerns for us, but we believe we can manage it ourselves. I meet each client where they are on their journey. Some have endured a difficult past or ongoing stress. Others have been through a traumatic event such as an accident, or the loss of a loved one through death or a break-up. Often, we don't recognize the impact of emotional toll, disguised as anxiety or other symptoms. My work helps you to connect the dots, providing support as you (re)build your best life.
My training and interests center on attachment, trauma, and challenges around pregnancy and birth. Events at this time along with the enduring traces of the past can have powerful effects on later relationships and the emotional health of adults and children. I work help relationships get off to a good start or back on track and to unravel the enduring effects of the past on experiences in the present. I believe that the relationship with your therapist is the springboard for change and I strive to create a sensitive, supportive, and thoughtful atmosphere in which this can blossom.
My training and interests center on attachment, trauma, and challenges around pregnancy and birth. Events at this time along with the enduring traces of the past can have powerful effects on later relationships and the emotional health of adults and children. I work help relationships get off to a good start or back on track and to unravel the enduring effects of the past on experiences in the present. I believe that the relationship with your therapist is the springboard for change and I strive to create a sensitive, supportive, and thoughtful atmosphere in which this can blossom.
I work with men who are used to holding it all together—professionals, partners, and fathers who are dependable on the outside but feel stressed, disconnected, or not like themselves underneath. They’re often navigating relationship strain, irritability, or a quiet sense that something isn’t working anymore. Together, we go beyond surface-level coping to understand what’s driving these patterns and create meaningful, lasting change. Through focused, intentional work, they begin to feel more grounded, more connected, and more like themselves again.
I work with men who are used to holding it all together—professionals, partners, and fathers who are dependable on the outside but feel stressed, disconnected, or not like themselves underneath. They’re often navigating relationship strain, irritability, or a quiet sense that something isn’t working anymore. Together, we go beyond surface-level coping to understand what’s driving these patterns and create meaningful, lasting change. Through focused, intentional work, they begin to feel more grounded, more connected, and more like themselves again.
LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, and Culturally Inclusive.
I have a deep personal interest in supporting autistic and neurodivergent individuals, and people with various learning differences, helping people embrace their unique strengths rather than trying to fit into a neurotypical mold. I've worked with people from a variety of cultural backgrounds and I emphasize your lived experience in our work.
LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, and Culturally Inclusive.
I have a deep personal interest in supporting autistic and neurodivergent individuals, and people with various learning differences, helping people embrace their unique strengths rather than trying to fit into a neurotypical mold. I've worked with people from a variety of cultural backgrounds and I emphasize your lived experience in our work.
More Therapists Nearby
Translating your internal thoughts, needs, or emotions into spoken language can feel unreliable, slow, or inaccessible, especially under stress. You’re searching for a place to feel seen, simply as you are. You want your loved ones to understand you and see your internal world. Rediscover your voice through music therapy. We want to provide you with techniques that encourage growth in your communication, cognition, socialization, mental health, motor skills, and behavior in a way that makes you feel deeply regulated and empowered.
Translating your internal thoughts, needs, or emotions into spoken language can feel unreliable, slow, or inaccessible, especially under stress. You’re searching for a place to feel seen, simply as you are. You want your loved ones to understand you and see your internal world. Rediscover your voice through music therapy. We want to provide you with techniques that encourage growth in your communication, cognition, socialization, mental health, motor skills, and behavior in a way that makes you feel deeply regulated and empowered.
Additionally, I have experience and passion working with survivors of domestic violence, navigating autism as an adult, health at every size, and perinatal mental health.
I'm Melanie, a licensed clinical social worker in CT and NY. I congratulate you for prioritizing the time to care for yourself. Seeking therapy can be an intimidating task, as we often have to open up, speak to and challenge parts of ourselves we've tucked away. Perhaps you have experienced a big life transition and are seeking helping navigating this next chapter. Perhaps you have noticed the same patterns emerging in your relationships or find yourself going to the same old, familiar place to keep your head above the water. These roads can feel isolating on your own, I would be honored to join you and work together.
Additionally, I have experience and passion working with survivors of domestic violence, navigating autism as an adult, health at every size, and perinatal mental health.
I'm Melanie, a licensed clinical social worker in CT and NY. I congratulate you for prioritizing the time to care for yourself. Seeking therapy can be an intimidating task, as we often have to open up, speak to and challenge parts of ourselves we've tucked away. Perhaps you have experienced a big life transition and are seeking helping navigating this next chapter. Perhaps you have noticed the same patterns emerging in your relationships or find yourself going to the same old, familiar place to keep your head above the water. These roads can feel isolating on your own, I would be honored to join you and work together.
Mindful Pathways Counseling, LLC Maura Satti, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Waitlist for new clients
I support adults with ADHD/ ASD/AuDHD who are exhausted, seeking answers, and wanting to learn how to successfully support themselves.
Many of my clients have been told that they are the problem that needs to be fixed, that the way they experience the world and express themselves is wrong. That's simply BS. Humans are not problems to be fixed, we are diverse and complex. My neuro & trauma informed approach is rooted in holistic, somatic care supporting the mind & body connection.
I support adults with ADHD/ ASD/AuDHD who are exhausted, seeking answers, and wanting to learn how to successfully support themselves.
Many of my clients have been told that they are the problem that needs to be fixed, that the way they experience the world and express themselves is wrong. That's simply BS. Humans are not problems to be fixed, we are diverse and complex. My neuro & trauma informed approach is rooted in holistic, somatic care supporting the mind & body connection.
See more therapy options for Branford
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Branford
- Derby
- East Haven
- Guilford
- Hamden
- Madison
- Milford
- New Haven
- North Haven
- Orange
- Wallingford
- West Haven
- Woodbridge
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.