Autism Therapists in Bloomington, IL

Anne Fulton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Bloomington, IL 61704
My ideal client is a adult or teen who identifies as neurodivergent—often autistic or living with ADHD—and is seeking support with anxiety, depression, executive functioning, or social connection.
I specialize in working with autistic individuals, those with ADHD, and others navigating anxiety, depression, or social-communication challenges. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and affirming. I offer individual and group therapy. I’m trained in PEERS, Hanen’s Talkability, and therapeutic Dungeons & Dragons.
My ideal client is a adult or teen who identifies as neurodivergent—often autistic or living with ADHD—and is seeking support with anxiety, depression, executive functioning, or social connection.
I specialize in working with autistic individuals, those with ADHD, and others navigating anxiety, depression, or social-communication challenges. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and affirming. I offer individual and group therapy. I’m trained in PEERS, Hanen’s Talkability, and therapeutic Dungeons & Dragons.
(309) 461-4229 View (309) 461-4229
Jennifer Walbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I have a deep understanding of complex trauma, autism, and adoption-specific issues.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
I have a deep understanding of complex trauma, autism, and adoption-specific issues.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
(309) 485-5909 View (309) 485-5909
Sarah E. Spurling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults around anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I offer a space where you can feel understood while also being supported to grow. I work with adults who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and create meaningful, sustainable change, and my approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded in both evidence-based practices and genuine human connection.
I work with adults around anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I offer a space where you can feel understood while also being supported to grow. I work with adults who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and create meaningful, sustainable change, and my approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded in both evidence-based practices and genuine human connection.
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Darin Roberts
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You didn't think love was supposed to feel this hard. You and your partner cycle through the same argument on repeat — different triggers, same explosion, same hollow silence that settles in after. You reach for your phone instead of each other. You share a bed but feel completely miles apart. Somewhere along the way things shifted, and you're not entirely sure when or how it happened. You remember when things felt easy, electric even, and now you're quietly wondering if you've lost something you can't ever get back. You still love each other — you're just no longer sure that love alone is enough anymore. Call now. I can help.
You didn't think love was supposed to feel this hard. You and your partner cycle through the same argument on repeat — different triggers, same explosion, same hollow silence that settles in after. You reach for your phone instead of each other. You share a bed but feel completely miles apart. Somewhere along the way things shifted, and you're not entirely sure when or how it happened. You remember when things felt easy, electric even, and now you're quietly wondering if you've lost something you can't ever get back. You still love each other — you're just no longer sure that love alone is enough anymore. Call now. I can help.
(309) 250-1581 View (309) 250-1581
Caity Oliger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I am most experienced in working with eating disorders, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Autism spectrum, and grief and loss.
My interventions and techniques are pulled from evidence based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Shame Informed Therapy, Somatic-based therapy, and mindfulness based strategies. I always strive to work in a trauma informed manner.
I am most experienced in working with eating disorders, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Autism spectrum, and grief and loss.
My interventions and techniques are pulled from evidence based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Shame Informed Therapy, Somatic-based therapy, and mindfulness based strategies. I always strive to work in a trauma informed manner.
(217) 829-2769 View (217) 829-2769
Jacob Register
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bloomington, IL 61704
He also has experience working with teens who struggle with behaviors, controlling strong emotions and those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Jake Register is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who strives to provide a warm and empathetic environment along with a good laugh for his clients. In addition to his years of experience as a therapist, he has a diverse background in both education and the corporate environment giving him unique insight into these sectors. Jake is committed to providing his clients with tools and strategies and absolutely believes that life can get better. In treatment, Jake uses a combination of CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment therapy. Jake enjoys working with clients with Anxiety, OCD, ADHD and Depression.
He also has experience working with teens who struggle with behaviors, controlling strong emotions and those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Jake Register is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who strives to provide a warm and empathetic environment along with a good laugh for his clients. In addition to his years of experience as a therapist, he has a diverse background in both education and the corporate environment giving him unique insight into these sectors. Jake is committed to providing his clients with tools and strategies and absolutely believes that life can get better. In treatment, Jake uses a combination of CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment therapy. Jake enjoys working with clients with Anxiety, OCD, ADHD and Depression.
(309) 790-3787 View (309) 790-3787
Len Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I work with individuals, couples, and teens seeking meaningful change, deeper connection, and greater emotional balance in today’s increasingly complex world. My approach integrates DBT, CBT, & Gottman-informed couples work to help clients better understand patterns, strengthen relationships, and develop practical tools for lasting growth. I work with couples seeking to reconnect after emotional distance and teens navigating emotional regulation in a technology-driven culture. My goal is to make therapy collaborative, insightful, and tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.
I work with individuals, couples, and teens seeking meaningful change, deeper connection, and greater emotional balance in today’s increasingly complex world. My approach integrates DBT, CBT, & Gottman-informed couples work to help clients better understand patterns, strengthen relationships, and develop practical tools for lasting growth. I work with couples seeking to reconnect after emotional distance and teens navigating emotional regulation in a technology-driven culture. My goal is to make therapy collaborative, insightful, and tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.
(309) 300-3798 View (309) 300-3798
Elissa Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Elissa holds a certificate in ASD counseling, a certificate in Religious Trauma Counseling, and as an advocate and member of the queer community, works significantly with the LGBTQIA+ community.
So many times in life we feel like we are alone. Whether we are experiencing grief, depression, difficulties in our everyday lives or in our family situations, we wonder if there is anyone else who can possibly understand our circumstances. What we really need is someone to listen to us and not feel like we are being judged. My belief in counseling is that you are already strong and brave to take the step of seeking assistance in your needs and my role is to walk alongside you in the situations life has brought your way. In a judgment-free zone, you will be valued for who you are as you seek to understand you are not alone.
Elissa holds a certificate in ASD counseling, a certificate in Religious Trauma Counseling, and as an advocate and member of the queer community, works significantly with the LGBTQIA+ community.
So many times in life we feel like we are alone. Whether we are experiencing grief, depression, difficulties in our everyday lives or in our family situations, we wonder if there is anyone else who can possibly understand our circumstances. What we really need is someone to listen to us and not feel like we are being judged. My belief in counseling is that you are already strong and brave to take the step of seeking assistance in your needs and my role is to walk alongside you in the situations life has brought your way. In a judgment-free zone, you will be valued for who you are as you seek to understand you are not alone.
(309) 328-8253 View (309) 328-8253
Thrive Child Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Bloomington, IL 61701
Like many of the families we work with, you may be feeling stuck. Perhaps you've read books, skimmed websites, and talked to friends and family in an effort to address your child's emotional or behavioral issues...yet he/she still seems to be struggling. Turning to someone else for help can feel like a big step. After all, as your child's parent, who knows him/her better than you? We agree. Thrive Child Psychology works in partnership with youth and families to get to the root of challenges, establish goals, and use research-based tools to achieve them.
Like many of the families we work with, you may be feeling stuck. Perhaps you've read books, skimmed websites, and talked to friends and family in an effort to address your child's emotional or behavioral issues...yet he/she still seems to be struggling. Turning to someone else for help can feel like a big step. After all, as your child's parent, who knows him/her better than you? We agree. Thrive Child Psychology works in partnership with youth and families to get to the root of challenges, establish goals, and use research-based tools to achieve them.
(309) 328-8823 View (309) 328-8823
Adam Carter
Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Online Only
I work with individuals and people in all types of relationships who are seeking a supportive, nonjudgmental space to better understand themselves and navigate life's challenges. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or feeling stuck and wanting something to change. I provide a compassionate and collaborative environment where you can process your experiences, gain insight, build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change that aligns with what matters most to you.
I work with individuals and people in all types of relationships who are seeking a supportive, nonjudgmental space to better understand themselves and navigate life's challenges. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or feeling stuck and wanting something to change. I provide a compassionate and collaborative environment where you can process your experiences, gain insight, build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change that aligns with what matters most to you.
(309) 893-8441 View (309) 893-8441
Sophia Gawron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bloomington, IL 61704
In her therapeutic space, Sophia Gawron, a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and healing. Since 2022, she has had the privilege of supporting clients in their pursuit of positive change and personal transformation. Sophia earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, specializing in Advanced Clinical Practice of Mental Health.
In her therapeutic space, Sophia Gawron, a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and healing. Since 2022, she has had the privilege of supporting clients in their pursuit of positive change and personal transformation. Sophia earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, specializing in Advanced Clinical Practice of Mental Health.
(309) 869-8134 View (309) 869-8134
Molly Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
Rudolph Dreikers says, “Children are keen observers, but poor interpreters”. Growing up and learning how to exist in a chaotic world can be extremely challenging in even the best circumstances. Those with trauma, neurodivergence, or any other challenges may have an especially tough time with this.
Rudolph Dreikers says, “Children are keen observers, but poor interpreters”. Growing up and learning how to exist in a chaotic world can be extremely challenging in even the best circumstances. Those with trauma, neurodivergence, or any other challenges may have an especially tough time with this.
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Dr. Violeta Cone
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, PsyD
Bloomington, IL 61704
Violeta Cone received her masters and doctorate in counseling and clinical psychology from Sofia University in Bulgaria and works as a therapist in Bloomington, Illinois. She is passionate about empathy and helping people flourish, as they discover their strengths and grow towards their full potential. In your sessions with her you can expect a trauma-informed and supportive atmosphere, where you will collaboratively walk towards your rich and meaningful life. You will be improving your emotional regulation through mindfulness training, holistic self-care, and strengths-based approach.In your sessions with her you can expect a traum
Violeta Cone received her masters and doctorate in counseling and clinical psychology from Sofia University in Bulgaria and works as a therapist in Bloomington, Illinois. She is passionate about empathy and helping people flourish, as they discover their strengths and grow towards their full potential. In your sessions with her you can expect a trauma-informed and supportive atmosphere, where you will collaboratively walk towards your rich and meaningful life. You will be improving your emotional regulation through mindfulness training, holistic self-care, and strengths-based approach.In your sessions with her you can expect a traum
(309) 271-1415 View (309) 271-1415
Abby J. Taplin
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Do you feel overwhelmed with bouts of depression or anxiety? I can help you. Together, we can unlock old patterns of thinking that may have left you feeling trapped or stuck through mindfulness based CBT which focuses on changing your relationship with negative emotions. Mindfulness allows one to become more cognitive of their immediate reaction to unsettling thoughts and emotions. In doing so, this allows one to employ skills to redefine that experience and promote self-love, compassion, and growth. I believe everyone is capable of finding joy, peace and fulfillment in their lives.
Do you feel overwhelmed with bouts of depression or anxiety? I can help you. Together, we can unlock old patterns of thinking that may have left you feeling trapped or stuck through mindfulness based CBT which focuses on changing your relationship with negative emotions. Mindfulness allows one to become more cognitive of their immediate reaction to unsettling thoughts and emotions. In doing so, this allows one to employ skills to redefine that experience and promote self-love, compassion, and growth. I believe everyone is capable of finding joy, peace and fulfillment in their lives.
(815) 418-7137 View (815) 418-7137
Becca Marquart
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Now accepting new clients! Feeling overwhelmed can be a heavy burden. When things don’t unfold as hoped, it’s common to feel stuck and disconnected from both oneself and others. Sometimes, it’s difficult to pinpoint the source of this discomfort, yet the sense of being constantly on edge—racing thoughts, tension in the jaw—can be all too familiar. Deep down, there’s a knowing that life holds more for you, and it’s okay to seek support in finding the way back to that fullness. I consider it an honor to walk with those who are sorting through grief and anxiety when life doesn't go as planned.
Now accepting new clients! Feeling overwhelmed can be a heavy burden. When things don’t unfold as hoped, it’s common to feel stuck and disconnected from both oneself and others. Sometimes, it’s difficult to pinpoint the source of this discomfort, yet the sense of being constantly on edge—racing thoughts, tension in the jaw—can be all too familiar. Deep down, there’s a knowing that life holds more for you, and it’s okay to seek support in finding the way back to that fullness. I consider it an honor to walk with those who are sorting through grief and anxiety when life doesn't go as planned.
(309) 893-1370 View (309) 893-1370
Adam Weseloh
Psychologist
Bloomington, IL 61704
Adam specializes in treating ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and childhood behavior issues.
He is passionate about helping young individuals navigate the complexities of these conditions, empowering them to reach their full potential. By incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy into his practice, Adam addresses a range of issues including anxiety, depression, and trauma, promoting overall mental wellness.
Adam specializes in treating ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and childhood behavior issues.
He is passionate about helping young individuals navigate the complexities of these conditions, empowering them to reach their full potential. By incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy into his practice, Adam addresses a range of issues including anxiety, depression, and trauma, promoting overall mental wellness.
(309) 245-7662 View (309) 245-7662
Victoria Dahmm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Bloomington, IL 61704
Victoria "Tory" Dahmm, LCPC , helps adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families across Illinois navigate emotional and relational challenges at LifeStance Health. With more than three decades of clinical experience, Tory provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions. She creates a supportive and collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives and relationships.Victoria "Tory" Dahmm, LCPC , helps adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families across Illinois navigate emotio
Victoria "Tory" Dahmm, LCPC , helps adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families across Illinois navigate emotional and relational challenges at LifeStance Health. With more than three decades of clinical experience, Tory provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions. She creates a supportive and collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives and relationships.Victoria "Tory" Dahmm, LCPC , helps adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families across Illinois navigate emotio
(309) 503-0460 View (309) 503-0460
Aaron Poppy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Bloomington, IL 61701
His assessment interest areas include attention, mood, personality, developmental disorders, autism, and learning.
Dr. Poppy’s assessment interest areas include attention, mood, personality, developmental disorders, autism, and learning. His interest areas for therapy include child behavior, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, life adjustment, and couple and family relationships.
His assessment interest areas include attention, mood, personality, developmental disorders, autism, and learning.
Dr. Poppy’s assessment interest areas include attention, mood, personality, developmental disorders, autism, and learning. His interest areas for therapy include child behavior, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, life adjustment, and couple and family relationships.
(309) 220-5130 View (309) 220-5130
Dr. Blair Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Brown’s areas of interest include depression, anxiety, women’s issues, LGBTQIA/Kink, parenting challenges, eating disorders (HAES/IE), autism spectrum disorders, divorce, adoption or attachment-related concerns, emotional trauma, and grief/loss.
Dr. Brown earned her doctoral degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, IL, and completed her internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Streamwood Behavioral Health Hospital. There, she received specialized training in play therapy, collaborative problem-solving, dialectical behavioral therapy, crisis management, and applied behavior analysis, while simultaneously completing a fellowship in psychoanalysis. With experience in outpatient, inpatient, school, community, leadership, and camp settings, she brings a comprehensive and dynamic approach to clinical care. Dr.
Brown’s areas of interest include depression, anxiety, women’s issues, LGBTQIA/Kink, parenting challenges, eating disorders (HAES/IE), autism spectrum disorders, divorce, adoption or attachment-related concerns, emotional trauma, and grief/loss.
Dr. Brown earned her doctoral degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, IL, and completed her internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Streamwood Behavioral Health Hospital. There, she received specialized training in play therapy, collaborative problem-solving, dialectical behavioral therapy, crisis management, and applied behavior analysis, while simultaneously completing a fellowship in psychoanalysis. With experience in outpatient, inpatient, school, community, leadership, and camp settings, she brings a comprehensive and dynamic approach to clinical care. Dr.
(309) 316-7695 View (309) 316-7695
Paul Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Hi, I’m Paul. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families navigate the harder parts of life. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety or controlling their anger, you’re a teen figuring things out, a college student feeling overwhelmed, or an adult having a difficult time juggling all the things life throws your way, you’re not alone.
Hi, I’m Paul. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families navigate the harder parts of life. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety or controlling their anger, you’re a teen figuring things out, a college student feeling overwhelmed, or an adult having a difficult time juggling all the things life throws your way, you’re not alone.
(309) 498-0352 View (309) 498-0352

See more therapy options for Bloomington

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.