Autism Therapists in Harrison, MI
Mary Jane Jane Blackmer
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, MI 48625
I've spent extensive time and training in educating people with special needs, specifically children/young adults with autism, cognitive deficits, and other learning difficulties.
I truly believe that given the time and space to walk through their story, the client holds the solution to the issue at hand. I will listen, encourage, support, and walk with you through your story.
I've spent extensive time and training in educating people with special needs, specifically children/young adults with autism, cognitive deficits, and other learning difficulties.
I truly believe that given the time and space to walk through their story, the client holds the solution to the issue at hand. I will listen, encourage, support, and walk with you through your story.
Online Therapists
Child Advocacy and Psychotherapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SSW, ICA
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
In addition to a wide variety of treatment methods for children and teenagers, I also specialize in & have certifications in autism, trauma & loss for adults as well as children.
Penny Lantz has 30+ yrs of rich experience evaluating & treating children (birth on up) as well as teenagers. I also support adults/parents. I will complete a comprehensive evaluation which will allow you & I to look at what your child needs & how to best meet these needs. I also have experience dealing with the medical field and school systems. I can help you navigate these systems to make sure your child/student needs are successfully met. As a psychotherapist, I will support you & your child through sessions which may include individual, 1 on 1 psychotherapy, family or couples counseling. Child sessions will include play therapy.
In addition to a wide variety of treatment methods for children and teenagers, I also specialize in & have certifications in autism, trauma & loss for adults as well as children.
Penny Lantz has 30+ yrs of rich experience evaluating & treating children (birth on up) as well as teenagers. I also support adults/parents. I will complete a comprehensive evaluation which will allow you & I to look at what your child needs & how to best meet these needs. I also have experience dealing with the medical field and school systems. I can help you navigate these systems to make sure your child/student needs are successfully met. As a psychotherapist, I will support you & your child through sessions which may include individual, 1 on 1 psychotherapy, family or couples counseling. Child sessions will include play therapy.
Lindsay Hill
Counselor, MS Ed, CRC, LLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Lansing, MI 48910 (Online Only)
I am a neurodivergent woman who specializes in working with young adults with disabilities especially as they navigate life transitions. I have extensive experience working with people with autism and those with ADHD, depression and anxiety. I am a trauma-informed clinician and provide neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+affirming therapy, utilizing a person-centered approach. I pull strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I am here to help you navigate your own journey of identity as well as difficult situations and transitions along the way.
I am a neurodivergent woman who specializes in working with young adults with disabilities especially as they navigate life transitions. I have extensive experience working with people with autism and those with ADHD, depression and anxiety. I am a trauma-informed clinician and provide neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+affirming therapy, utilizing a person-centered approach. I pull strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I am here to help you navigate your own journey of identity as well as difficult situations and transitions along the way.
Antonio Siciliano
Masters Social Worker, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Waitlist for new clients
I offer ADHD and Autism assessments that are neurodiversity affirming.
My guess is you are here because you or your child have recently discovered something about yourselves that has made life challenging. Maybe you just got a diagnosis from another provider and you don't know what to do with it. Maybe you're looking for a diagnosis that won't be delivered in a stigmatizing manner. For this reason, I'm very happy you are here! Taking that first step to learn more about yourself is challenging. I'm glad you are able to take this next step in your mental health journey!
I offer ADHD and Autism assessments that are neurodiversity affirming.
My guess is you are here because you or your child have recently discovered something about yourselves that has made life challenging. Maybe you just got a diagnosis from another provider and you don't know what to do with it. Maybe you're looking for a diagnosis that won't be delivered in a stigmatizing manner. For this reason, I'm very happy you are here! Taking that first step to learn more about yourself is challenging. I'm glad you are able to take this next step in your mental health journey!
Nicole White
M Ed, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Rockford, MI 49341
Hello, I work with children with an autism diagnosis who need to build communication skills, functional living skills, and improve behaviors. Autism is a spectrum and no two children with autism are the same. I have worked with non-speaking children building a functional communication system. I have also worked with highly verbal children building effective communication skills. I have experience teaching a variety of skills, such as functional living skills, play skills, social skills, and verbal skills. I also focus therapy on behavioral concerns, increasing positive behaviors and decreasing negative or harmful behaviors.
Hello, I work with children with an autism diagnosis who need to build communication skills, functional living skills, and improve behaviors. Autism is a spectrum and no two children with autism are the same. I have worked with non-speaking children building a functional communication system. I have also worked with highly verbal children building effective communication skills. I have experience teaching a variety of skills, such as functional living skills, play skills, social skills, and verbal skills. I also focus therapy on behavioral concerns, increasing positive behaviors and decreasing negative or harmful behaviors.
MacKenzie Tafil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have spent 5 years working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and children with autism doing case management services and supporting families.
When you take that first step of calling to schedule the appointment, those always feel like the hardest steps. I am here to meet you where you are. Whether that is in the depths of your battle with depression, feeling uncomfortable in your own skin, or learning how to express your feelings and dealing with the triggers that inevitably come with trauma. My job is to walk beside you on the journey to healing, provide you with tools to make you the hero in your own story and support your continued growth. I received my my Master's Degree in Social Work From Western Michigan University.
I have spent 5 years working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and children with autism doing case management services and supporting families.
When you take that first step of calling to schedule the appointment, those always feel like the hardest steps. I am here to meet you where you are. Whether that is in the depths of your battle with depression, feeling uncomfortable in your own skin, or learning how to express your feelings and dealing with the triggers that inevitably come with trauma. My job is to walk beside you on the journey to healing, provide you with tools to make you the hero in your own story and support your continued growth. I received my my Master's Degree in Social Work From Western Michigan University.
Anne Windberg
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP/LLP
Verified Verified
Norton Shores, MI 49444
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia) support, Anxiety, Depression and LGBTQIA support.
I am an inclusive therapist who practices from a person centered, multicultural and neurodiversity affirmative perspective. My therapy process is driven by your personal beliefs, values and goals. Interventions used are collaboratively chosen with respect and honor for your identified emotional, sensory, somatic, processing and communication strengths and needs. I believe increasing acceptance of our authentic self (differences, abilities, quirks and all), empowering self and living in-sync with our natural neurological wiring will lead to fulfilling and meaningful living on our own terms.
I specialize in Neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia) support, Anxiety, Depression and LGBTQIA support.
I am an inclusive therapist who practices from a person centered, multicultural and neurodiversity affirmative perspective. My therapy process is driven by your personal beliefs, values and goals. Interventions used are collaboratively chosen with respect and honor for your identified emotional, sensory, somatic, processing and communication strengths and needs. I believe increasing acceptance of our authentic self (differences, abilities, quirks and all), empowering self and living in-sync with our natural neurological wiring will lead to fulfilling and meaningful living on our own terms.
Jessi Manning
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Neurodiversity affirming evaluations for age 16 years through adulthood. Have you been considering completing testing for ADHD or autism? Maybe your child was identified as neurodivergent, and you relate to the way they think, feel, and act. Maybe you’ve seen information online that has led you to question or self-identify as autistic or having ADHD. If you’ve looked at formal testing, you've seen that lots of places cater to children, or you might have gotten discouraged when you learned that the wait for testing is 6 months+. If this sounds like you, you’ve found the right place.
Neurodiversity affirming evaluations for age 16 years through adulthood. Have you been considering completing testing for ADHD or autism? Maybe your child was identified as neurodivergent, and you relate to the way they think, feel, and act. Maybe you’ve seen information online that has led you to question or self-identify as autistic or having ADHD. If you’ve looked at formal testing, you've seen that lots of places cater to children, or you might have gotten discouraged when you learned that the wait for testing is 6 months+. If this sounds like you, you’ve found the right place.
Rebecca Cervantes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Passionate about fostering individuality and deeply committed to supporting diverse journeys towards healing and self-discovery. I strive to create a safe space where every individual feels validated and empowered to embrace their uniqueness. I have been fortunate enough to experience a diverse range of mental health settings throughout my educational career including the residential and case management sides of the foster care system, residential adult foster care, ABA therapy support for children on the autism spectrum, inpatient substance abuse settings, and outpatient Medication Assisted Treatment for substance abuse.
Passionate about fostering individuality and deeply committed to supporting diverse journeys towards healing and self-discovery. I strive to create a safe space where every individual feels validated and empowered to embrace their uniqueness. I have been fortunate enough to experience a diverse range of mental health settings throughout my educational career including the residential and case management sides of the foster care system, residential adult foster care, ABA therapy support for children on the autism spectrum, inpatient substance abuse settings, and outpatient Medication Assisted Treatment for substance abuse.
WAIT Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Flushing, MI 48433
My goal as a therapist is to provide clients with a safe and supportive environment while encouraging and promoting them to grow mentally, intellectually, psychologically, socially and spiritually to reach their optimal potential of autonomy. I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I am experienced in working with individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Marital counseling, divorce grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship/family counseling, grief, and spiritual counseling. I also provide mentoring and academic tutoring for children and adolescence.
My goal as a therapist is to provide clients with a safe and supportive environment while encouraging and promoting them to grow mentally, intellectually, psychologically, socially and spiritually to reach their optimal potential of autonomy. I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I am experienced in working with individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Marital counseling, divorce grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship/family counseling, grief, and spiritual counseling. I also provide mentoring and academic tutoring for children and adolescence.
Meghan Mclain
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Clinical psychologist and owner of Integral Psychological Services. Our multidisciplinary team provides counseling, medication management, psychological evaluations (including ADHD and Autism testing) and occupational therapy. Our clinicians specialize in several therapies that are evidence-based (e.g. cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, animal assisted therapy). Occupational Therapy for executive functioning, sensory/reflex integration, work/school based skills and more. Typically booking testing appointments within a few weeks and therapy appointments within a week.
Clinical psychologist and owner of Integral Psychological Services. Our multidisciplinary team provides counseling, medication management, psychological evaluations (including ADHD and Autism testing) and occupational therapy. Our clinicians specialize in several therapies that are evidence-based (e.g. cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, animal assisted therapy). Occupational Therapy for executive functioning, sensory/reflex integration, work/school based skills and more. Typically booking testing appointments within a few weeks and therapy appointments within a week.
Tobi Ann Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Middleville, MI 49333
Are you looking for someone to understand your situation, to hear your voice, and to work with you on solutions to your problems? I am a fully licensed Clinical Social Worker at White Oak Counseling and Recovery in Middleville, MI. I work with people of all ages and from all walks of life. I have over 24 years experience working with individuals and families on such matters as: marital issues, medical/social crisis counseling, youths with depression/anxiety symptoms, ADHD, caregiver stress, autism, substance use disorders, and grief counseling. Let's start from where you are at and create a path to success!
Are you looking for someone to understand your situation, to hear your voice, and to work with you on solutions to your problems? I am a fully licensed Clinical Social Worker at White Oak Counseling and Recovery in Middleville, MI. I work with people of all ages and from all walks of life. I have over 24 years experience working with individuals and families on such matters as: marital issues, medical/social crisis counseling, youths with depression/anxiety symptoms, ADHD, caregiver stress, autism, substance use disorders, and grief counseling. Let's start from where you are at and create a path to success!
Katelyn Wysocki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Online Only)
I previously worked as a Registered Behavior Technician in a pediatric Autism clinic.
Counseling looks different for everyone-it is not one size fits all. I use methods that work for you in that moment and can vary by session. What you may need one day may not be what you will need the next. I aim to give you a safe, non-judgmental space to tell your story how and when you are ready. Together, we will have honest, sometimes uncomfortable but needed conversations. We will address barriers, examine boundaries, set goals, and work towards finding your voice.
I previously worked as a Registered Behavior Technician in a pediatric Autism clinic.
Counseling looks different for everyone-it is not one size fits all. I use methods that work for you in that moment and can vary by session. What you may need one day may not be what you will need the next. I aim to give you a safe, non-judgmental space to tell your story how and when you are ready. Together, we will have honest, sometimes uncomfortable but needed conversations. We will address barriers, examine boundaries, set goals, and work towards finding your voice.
Kayla Thrushman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
I specialize in working with teens, children, young adults, and individuals with autism.
I believe therapy is a mutual process between the client and the therapist. The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and respect. My goal is not to "fix" someone's problems; but to offer my clients the tools to foster growth and change within themselves and their own life through the exploration of techniques, self reflection and various art mediums.
I specialize in working with teens, children, young adults, and individuals with autism.
I believe therapy is a mutual process between the client and the therapist. The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and respect. My goal is not to "fix" someone's problems; but to offer my clients the tools to foster growth and change within themselves and their own life through the exploration of techniques, self reflection and various art mediums.
Kelly Delong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I enjoy supporting neurodivergent clients with ADHD, Autism, PTSD, and OCD.
Whatever age and stage of life you are in, life can become challenging and stressful. If you feel anxious, depressed, or just simply lost therapy can offer you support and balance. I am a neurodiverse-affirming, LGBTQIA affirmative, and culturally aware therapist who offers authenticity and a space where you will be seen, heard, and respected as an authority and expert on your life and your strengths and challenges. In therapy, I will help you learn to understand and embrace your identity, find compassion for yourself, develop coping strategies for living in a stressful world, and help you find your unique balance.
I enjoy supporting neurodivergent clients with ADHD, Autism, PTSD, and OCD.
Whatever age and stage of life you are in, life can become challenging and stressful. If you feel anxious, depressed, or just simply lost therapy can offer you support and balance. I am a neurodiverse-affirming, LGBTQIA affirmative, and culturally aware therapist who offers authenticity and a space where you will be seen, heard, and respected as an authority and expert on your life and your strengths and challenges. In therapy, I will help you learn to understand and embrace your identity, find compassion for yourself, develop coping strategies for living in a stressful world, and help you find your unique balance.
Andrew Kossek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Online Only)
I am neurodivergent and I have helped neurodivergent children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings for over ten years. I have a long history of working with other neurodivergent individuals to develop the tools that they need to thrive in a world that does not always accept them. I utilize evidence-based talk therapies as well as CBT and mindfulness practices to help clients develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. I specialize in working with and advocating for children and adults dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, and disability-related issues. I can help Autistic men find ways to connect
I am neurodivergent and I have helped neurodivergent children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings for over ten years. I have a long history of working with other neurodivergent individuals to develop the tools that they need to thrive in a world that does not always accept them. I utilize evidence-based talk therapies as well as CBT and mindfulness practices to help clients develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. I specialize in working with and advocating for children and adults dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, and disability-related issues. I can help Autistic men find ways to connect
Katie M Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48912 (Online Only)
Perhaps you have a new diagnosis of ADHD or Autism, and want to know what it means for your future. Perhaps you suspect you are neurodivergent, but aren’t sure how to proceed. Perhaps you want to show up more authentically; you want to learn to stop masking your autism, for example, or present as the gender you align with, but want support and guidance through the conflicts that could arise. Perhaps you just want to stop feeling like your own worst enemy.
Perhaps you have a new diagnosis of ADHD or Autism, and want to know what it means for your future. Perhaps you suspect you are neurodivergent, but aren’t sure how to proceed. Perhaps you want to show up more authentically; you want to learn to stop masking your autism, for example, or present as the gender you align with, but want support and guidance through the conflicts that could arise. Perhaps you just want to stop feeling like your own worst enemy.
Courtney Schlaud
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Owosso, MI 48867
If you find yourself struggling with unexpected circumstances, processing a past event or relationship, or confronting new changes in your life, I bring an empathetic approach to our sessions. I provide personalized mental health care while building individual resilience by supporting you in discovering your unique pathways to better ways of living. My experience has included neurodiversity-affirming (ADHD and autism), depression, anxiety, codependency, adjustment disorders, and other mild to moderate mental health struggles. I often see those dealing with major life transitions and assist in navigating such tricky times.
If you find yourself struggling with unexpected circumstances, processing a past event or relationship, or confronting new changes in your life, I bring an empathetic approach to our sessions. I provide personalized mental health care while building individual resilience by supporting you in discovering your unique pathways to better ways of living. My experience has included neurodiversity-affirming (ADHD and autism), depression, anxiety, codependency, adjustment disorders, and other mild to moderate mental health struggles. I often see those dealing with major life transitions and assist in navigating such tricky times.
Dorie Bekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Haven, MI 49417 (Online Only)
I specialize in individuals going through transitions, adolescents, college students, ADHD & Autism, and individuals or families of individuals with disabilities.
Sometimes life is messy, hard to understand, or simply overwhelming; and sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Hi! My name is Dorie, and I would love to work with you! My practice is a mix of looking at your strengths, validating and understanding, mindfulness and helping to find a new perspective. If you are looking for someone to talk to and help you find the tools to navigate the messiness of life, then I would love to work with you. Let's walk through the messiness together.
I specialize in individuals going through transitions, adolescents, college students, ADHD & Autism, and individuals or families of individuals with disabilities.
Sometimes life is messy, hard to understand, or simply overwhelming; and sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Hi! My name is Dorie, and I would love to work with you! My practice is a mix of looking at your strengths, validating and understanding, mindfulness and helping to find a new perspective. If you are looking for someone to talk to and help you find the tools to navigate the messiness of life, then I would love to work with you. Let's walk through the messiness together.
Lorene Wamsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bay City, MI 48706
One of the most important tools for successful therapy is the relationship between clinician and client. I believe in creating a judgment free atmosphere through empathetic listening skills and positive regard for the client. I utilize an eclectic combination of Person Centered, Strengths Based, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Reflective Listening, Emotional Processing, and EMDR to work with individuals from childhood to retirement in addressing issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+, trauma, grief, self-esteem, self-harm, and substance use/addiction.
One of the most important tools for successful therapy is the relationship between clinician and client. I believe in creating a judgment free atmosphere through empathetic listening skills and positive regard for the client. I utilize an eclectic combination of Person Centered, Strengths Based, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Reflective Listening, Emotional Processing, and EMDR to work with individuals from childhood to retirement in addressing issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+, trauma, grief, self-esteem, self-harm, and substance use/addiction.
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.