Autism Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL
My expertise includes assessing autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, psychiatric concerns, and social-emotional challenges.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based, integrating expertise in development, learning, and mental health to empower individuals and families. I prioritize clarity and accessibility, helping clients understand their cognitive and emotional profiles while providing practical strategies for success in school, work, and daily life.
My expertise includes assessing autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, psychiatric concerns, and social-emotional challenges.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based, integrating expertise in development, learning, and mental health to empower individuals and families. I prioritize clarity and accessibility, helping clients understand their cognitive and emotional profiles while providing practical strategies for success in school, work, and daily life.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, Autism, ADHD, parent-child relationship and coparenting issues.
I have six years of experience working at various outpatient settings and with a ethnically diverse population. My main orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) and my approach focuses on reshaping the core beliefs and helping my client navigate their feelings and see themselves in a more balanced and positive way.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, Autism, ADHD, parent-child relationship and coparenting issues.
I have six years of experience working at various outpatient settings and with a ethnically diverse population. My main orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) and my approach focuses on reshaping the core beliefs and helping my client navigate their feelings and see themselves in a more balanced and positive way.
Brandon Tessers
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in working with clients who are exploring ADHD, AuDHD, autism, race, creativity, artistic identity, queerness, executive functioning, and relationships through individual, couples, and family therapy.
I have a life-long passion for philosophy and psychology, and have designed my own therapeutic approach that was borne out of executive functioning coaching, but has expanded to meet the needs of all of my unique clients. I am known for helping clients meet their goals and improve their lives in ways they have not been able to with other therapists.
I specialize in working with clients who are exploring ADHD, AuDHD, autism, race, creativity, artistic identity, queerness, executive functioning, and relationships through individual, couples, and family therapy.
I have a life-long passion for philosophy and psychology, and have designed my own therapeutic approach that was borne out of executive functioning coaching, but has expanded to meet the needs of all of my unique clients. I am known for helping clients meet their goals and improve their lives in ways they have not been able to with other therapists.
I also work with people of any age with chronic health issues, trauma, people of all ages with autism and LGBTQ+ clients.
Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I have been working with children and families for almost 20 years.
I also work with people of any age with chronic health issues, trauma, people of all ages with autism and LGBTQ+ clients.
Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I have been working with children and families for almost 20 years.
With a focus on ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and other neurodevelopmental concerns, I provide insight and direction for all ages.
I provide a warm, supportive space for testing with children (8+), teens, and adults to explore strengths, challenges, and what’s shaping development. If you’ve struggled to feel understood, a personalized evaluation can offer clarity, insight, and a meaningful first step toward growth—whether in school, work, or social settings.
With a focus on ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and other neurodevelopmental concerns, I provide insight and direction for all ages.
I provide a warm, supportive space for testing with children (8+), teens, and adults to explore strengths, challenges, and what’s shaping development. If you’ve struggled to feel understood, a personalized evaluation can offer clarity, insight, and a meaningful first step toward growth—whether in school, work, or social settings.
Andrew Brucker | Neurodivergent Affirming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have years of professional and lived-experience working with neurotypes such as ADHD (all types) and Autism, as well as many others.
Welcome neurodivergent (ND) folks! My name is Andrew and I am Autistic and ADHD, or AuDHD for short. Welcome to a place where you are accepted and appreciated. Welcome to a place where you can learn to celebrate yourself and what you have to offer. It’s time we stopped thinking about how we are “defective” and started focusing on how we are strong. Let’s figure out what it is that you excel at and let’s make a plan to find the best job that meets your needs. It’s time to stop trying to fit yourself into an environment and start building an environment that is right for you. Let’s live life on our own terms.
I have years of professional and lived-experience working with neurotypes such as ADHD (all types) and Autism, as well as many others.
Welcome neurodivergent (ND) folks! My name is Andrew and I am Autistic and ADHD, or AuDHD for short. Welcome to a place where you are accepted and appreciated. Welcome to a place where you can learn to celebrate yourself and what you have to offer. It’s time we stopped thinking about how we are “defective” and started focusing on how we are strong. Let’s figure out what it is that you excel at and let’s make a plan to find the best job that meets your needs. It’s time to stop trying to fit yourself into an environment and start building an environment that is right for you. Let’s live life on our own terms.
She does the following types of neuropsychological and psychological testing evaluations: neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, specific learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder), mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, as well as personality disorders.
Heather Perez, PsyD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in neuropsychological and psychological testing evaluations for individuals three years and older. Dr. Perez has worked with several populations, including those who have significant trauma histories, individuals who have experienced emotional and behavioral dysregulation, as well as neurodiverse individuals. Dr. Perez emphasizes the importance in forming a trusting relationship with each client and their family to provide the best environment for self-exploration and understanding.
She does the following types of neuropsychological and psychological testing evaluations: neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, specific learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder), mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, as well as personality disorders.
Heather Perez, PsyD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in neuropsychological and psychological testing evaluations for individuals three years and older. Dr. Perez has worked with several populations, including those who have significant trauma histories, individuals who have experienced emotional and behavioral dysregulation, as well as neurodiverse individuals. Dr. Perez emphasizes the importance in forming a trusting relationship with each client and their family to provide the best environment for self-exploration and understanding.
I run a number of therapy groups focused on navigating relationships and the world, while neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, etc), queer and trans, from a systems lens.
As a queer-identified therapist, I am dedicated to guiding you through the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you're seeking support in individual, relationship or group therapy, my goal is to create a warm and accepting space where you can explore and embrace all aspects of yourself. With a deep focus on trauma-informed care and expertise in kink, polyamory, queer and neuroexpansive identities, PTSD, religious trauma and eating disorders, Our work together involves delving into the depths of the unconscious, uncovering hidden truths and shadow aspects, to cultivate a deeper understanding of the self.
I run a number of therapy groups focused on navigating relationships and the world, while neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, etc), queer and trans, from a systems lens.
As a queer-identified therapist, I am dedicated to guiding you through the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you're seeking support in individual, relationship or group therapy, my goal is to create a warm and accepting space where you can explore and embrace all aspects of yourself. With a deep focus on trauma-informed care and expertise in kink, polyamory, queer and neuroexpansive identities, PTSD, religious trauma and eating disorders, Our work together involves delving into the depths of the unconscious, uncovering hidden truths and shadow aspects, to cultivate a deeper understanding of the self.
I have held my individual clinical licensure for multiple years and have gone further to receive certifications specializing in trauma work and supporting autism, I am a SHA certified sex therapist actively applying for AASECT.
Alexi is a queer clinician and sex therapist with a deep passion for guiding individuals, couples, and fellow professionals on their journeys of self-discovery, authenticity, and personal growth. Their ideal clients are those who seek to explore their LGBTQIA+ identity, enhance their sexuality and sexual wellness, heal from trauma, address eating disorders, and understand neurodivergence. Alexi employs a holistic approach, combining evidence-based practices with personalized interventions to empower and uplift their clients.
I have held my individual clinical licensure for multiple years and have gone further to receive certifications specializing in trauma work and supporting autism, I am a SHA certified sex therapist actively applying for AASECT.
Alexi is a queer clinician and sex therapist with a deep passion for guiding individuals, couples, and fellow professionals on their journeys of self-discovery, authenticity, and personal growth. Their ideal clients are those who seek to explore their LGBTQIA+ identity, enhance their sexuality and sexual wellness, heal from trauma, address eating disorders, and understand neurodivergence. Alexi employs a holistic approach, combining evidence-based practices with personalized interventions to empower and uplift their clients.
I specialize in working with parenting concerns, Autism/ADHD, relationship/family conflict and identity concerns/exploration such as race/ethnicity, gender and sexuality.
I believe that we all engage in behaviors to help us survive, especially in our world today. For that reason, I believe in taking a warm, nonjudgmental and collaborative approach to therapy. I truly believe that you are the expert of your experience and I am here as a coach to help support you in reaching your goals. I use a combination of evidence-based therapies, and my own lived experiences as a parent, biracial Asian and Latinx provider, to support others of similar backgrounds and guide them with the tools to make meaningful changes in their life.
I specialize in working with parenting concerns, Autism/ADHD, relationship/family conflict and identity concerns/exploration such as race/ethnicity, gender and sexuality.
I believe that we all engage in behaviors to help us survive, especially in our world today. For that reason, I believe in taking a warm, nonjudgmental and collaborative approach to therapy. I truly believe that you are the expert of your experience and I am here as a coach to help support you in reaching your goals. I use a combination of evidence-based therapies, and my own lived experiences as a parent, biracial Asian and Latinx provider, to support others of similar backgrounds and guide them with the tools to make meaningful changes in their life.
I have additional experience with high behavioral individuals, personality disorders, trauma and those on the autism spectrum.
Life is hard and we all can use a little help. That is why I chose this role in life and I can help you through any of your life struggles. Helping you recognize your own worth and strengths, and providing insight and tools can help you navigate anything that comes your way. I can also help you work through what you have already been through that just can't seem to subside or allow you to live your best life. I look forward to working with you and/or your family.
I have additional experience with high behavioral individuals, personality disorders, trauma and those on the autism spectrum.
Life is hard and we all can use a little help. That is why I chose this role in life and I can help you through any of your life struggles. Helping you recognize your own worth and strengths, and providing insight and tools can help you navigate anything that comes your way. I can also help you work through what you have already been through that just can't seem to subside or allow you to live your best life. I look forward to working with you and/or your family.
Meet Our Autism Therapists
My name is Lisa Goodson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals throughout the entire state of Illinois. I am available for telehealth appointments. I provide support to empower individuals to support themselves differently in life.
Your Space, Your Time, Your Life
I use evidence-based practice and have been working in the mental health industry for over 5 years. I am offering individual counseling services, family counseling services, as well as couple counseling services. I can be contacted directly at (630) 216-4315 or by email
My name is Lisa Goodson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals throughout the entire state of Illinois. I am available for telehealth appointments. I provide support to empower individuals to support themselves differently in life.
Your Space, Your Time, Your Life
I use evidence-based practice and have been working in the mental health industry for over 5 years. I am offering individual counseling services, family counseling services, as well as couple counseling services. I can be contacted directly at (630) 216-4315 or by email
Hi there! I have a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology and am a Post-Doctoral Fellow. I am in my 7th year of supervised clinical experience helping youth and families with various mental health concerns through various treatment modalities. Before joining a private group practice, I worked primarily in community mental health outpatient centers and schools. I have experience working with marginalized children, teens, and adults with various psychosocial concerns through various organizations. Additionally, I approach therapy from an integrative perspective, focusing primarily on cognitive-behavioral and client-centered therapy.
Hi there! I have a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology and am a Post-Doctoral Fellow. I am in my 7th year of supervised clinical experience helping youth and families with various mental health concerns through various treatment modalities. Before joining a private group practice, I worked primarily in community mental health outpatient centers and schools. I have experience working with marginalized children, teens, and adults with various psychosocial concerns through various organizations. Additionally, I approach therapy from an integrative perspective, focusing primarily on cognitive-behavioral and client-centered therapy.
I understand that entering therapy is not always an easy task. It takes courage to ask for help. As psychologist Viktor Frankl once said, “In some ways suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds a meaning, such as the meaning of a sacrifice.” I work to help you find meaning. It’s important to me to provide you with a safe, nurturing environment. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them.
I understand that entering therapy is not always an easy task. It takes courage to ask for help. As psychologist Viktor Frankl once said, “In some ways suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds a meaning, such as the meaning of a sacrifice.” I work to help you find meaning. It’s important to me to provide you with a safe, nurturing environment. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them.
Lexi Marks is a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. Based in Chicago, she specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults facing anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and trauma. Lexi’s integrative and personalized approach empowers clients to explore their unique needs and pursue meaningful growth. Lexi is passionate about addressing the complex impact of trauma, supporting individuals as they build resilience and rediscover their inner strengths.
Lexi Marks is a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. Based in Chicago, she specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults facing anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and trauma. Lexi’s integrative and personalized approach empowers clients to explore their unique needs and pursue meaningful growth. Lexi is passionate about addressing the complex impact of trauma, supporting individuals as they build resilience and rediscover their inner strengths.
Ikram Hassan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, Post D
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Hello and a warm welcome to Life Stance Health! My name is Dr. Ikram Hassan (She/ Her/ Hers). My primary interests in therapy are working with individuals, families, and caregivers. I have extensive experience in providing counseling, therapy, neuropsychological and neurodevelopmental assessments. I love the opportunity to do more depth-oriented work within the context of private practice. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed and affirming care for clients from various cultural, spiritual, and ethnic backgrounds. When I’m not with clients, I enjoy gardening, baking, traveling and time with nature.
Hello and a warm welcome to Life Stance Health! My name is Dr. Ikram Hassan (She/ Her/ Hers). My primary interests in therapy are working with individuals, families, and caregivers. I have extensive experience in providing counseling, therapy, neuropsychological and neurodevelopmental assessments. I love the opportunity to do more depth-oriented work within the context of private practice. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed and affirming care for clients from various cultural, spiritual, and ethnic backgrounds. When I’m not with clients, I enjoy gardening, baking, traveling and time with nature.
Katherine Nimrod
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Katherine Nimrod is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2021. Katherine offers a blend of warmth, direct communication, and calm energy. She has extensive experience with trauma and anxiety through her work with AmeriCorps in Anchorage, Alaska, where she worked with HIV and the needle exchange with drug addicts. Additionally, Katherine brings trauma and moral injury experience through her research at the VA with veterans. Katherine has experience working with many populations such as hospice, incarcerated youth, and natural disaster survivors.
Katherine Nimrod is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2021. Katherine offers a blend of warmth, direct communication, and calm energy. She has extensive experience with trauma and anxiety through her work with AmeriCorps in Anchorage, Alaska, where she worked with HIV and the needle exchange with drug addicts. Additionally, Katherine brings trauma and moral injury experience through her research at the VA with veterans. Katherine has experience working with many populations such as hospice, incarcerated youth, and natural disaster survivors.
Nina Dismukes has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with attention issues, learning disabilities, substance use, self-esteem, expressing emotions, trauma, coping skills, and more. Nina believes that effective therapy is a soulful-healing process that takes time, patience, loyalty, self-love, and the openness to communicate. Nina feels that it is important to help empower patients by allowing them to express themselves in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe.
Nina Dismukes has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with attention issues, learning disabilities, substance use, self-esteem, expressing emotions, trauma, coping skills, and more. Nina believes that effective therapy is a soulful-healing process that takes time, patience, loyalty, self-love, and the openness to communicate. Nina feels that it is important to help empower patients by allowing them to express themselves in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe.
At Global Psychoeducational Solutions, we help parents navigate their child’s learning challenges, whether it’s dyslexia, ADHD, or other educational difficulties. We offer tailored psychoeducational assessments using digital tools, providing in-depth insights into your child’s needs. Our goal is to support your child’s educational success with effective, data-driven strategies. Let’s work together to make learning easier and more productive for your child.
At Global Psychoeducational Solutions, we help parents navigate their child’s learning challenges, whether it’s dyslexia, ADHD, or other educational difficulties. We offer tailored psychoeducational assessments using digital tools, providing in-depth insights into your child’s needs. Our goal is to support your child’s educational success with effective, data-driven strategies. Let’s work together to make learning easier and more productive for your child.
Are you ready to make substantial change? My focus would be to help you find comfort in emotional vulnerability and healing through introspection of thoughts, behaviors, and values which prompts new action. My ideal client is one who is interested in processing emotions, gaining insight, and using existing/untapped internal and external resources. I'm compassionate, collaborative, and inquisitive with 16 years of experience. Areas of focus include trauma, addiction, depression, relationship issues/divorce, shame, identity issues, racial issues, and simply improving one's well-being. Young adults, Middle-aged adults, and Teens (15+).
Are you ready to make substantial change? My focus would be to help you find comfort in emotional vulnerability and healing through introspection of thoughts, behaviors, and values which prompts new action. My ideal client is one who is interested in processing emotions, gaining insight, and using existing/untapped internal and external resources. I'm compassionate, collaborative, and inquisitive with 16 years of experience. Areas of focus include trauma, addiction, depression, relationship issues/divorce, shame, identity issues, racial issues, and simply improving one's well-being. Young adults, Middle-aged adults, and Teens (15+).
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
- Dearborn Park
- Little Italy
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Near West Side
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- University Village
- West Loop
Nearby Searches for River North, Chicago
- Greektown
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- Printers Row
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
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.