Autism Therapists in Chicago, IL

Sami Boomgarden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60602
I provide neurodivergent-affirming care to people with ADHD and Autism.
I use an eclectic approach that draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, somatic experiencing, and dialectic behavior skills. I will hold a compassionate and non-judgmental space while we collaborate to determine what will best serve you. We can build coping skills and strategies that help you work with your brain, not against it!
I provide neurodivergent-affirming care to people with ADHD and Autism.
I use an eclectic approach that draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, somatic experiencing, and dialectic behavior skills. I will hold a compassionate and non-judgmental space while we collaborate to determine what will best serve you. We can build coping skills and strategies that help you work with your brain, not against it!
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Bria Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I primarily work with BIPOC, neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, ENM/CNM, and identity-exploring folks navigating complex trauma, relational and attachment wounds, perfectionism, perinatal and reproductive mental health, and the chronic stress of existing in invalidating environments.
I draw from several evidence-based practices, including narrative therapy, IFS, DBT, and somatic approaches, but I don’t believe in rigid or one-size-fits-all therapy. Therapy with me is relaxed, welcoming, and collaborative.
I primarily work with BIPOC, neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, ENM/CNM, and identity-exploring folks navigating complex trauma, relational and attachment wounds, perfectionism, perinatal and reproductive mental health, and the chronic stress of existing in invalidating environments.
I draw from several evidence-based practices, including narrative therapy, IFS, DBT, and somatic approaches, but I don’t believe in rigid or one-size-fits-all therapy. Therapy with me is relaxed, welcoming, and collaborative.
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Sasha Mieko Vasilou
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Bravo on taking that first challenging step of daring to explore your options for support! Therapy has been an essential part of my own healing, so it is my honor to be able to join clients on their paths towards wellness. Using a systems-critical and strengths-based lens, I aim walk alongside clients on their journey, supporting their understanding of their deepest strengths and personal motivations for growth and healing. Collaboration is at the center of my work, and it's my pleasure to welcoming the integration of your personal interests and cultural traditions into our work.
Bravo on taking that first challenging step of daring to explore your options for support! Therapy has been an essential part of my own healing, so it is my honor to be able to join clients on their paths towards wellness. Using a systems-critical and strengths-based lens, I aim walk alongside clients on their journey, supporting their understanding of their deepest strengths and personal motivations for growth and healing. Collaboration is at the center of my work, and it's my pleasure to welcoming the integration of your personal interests and cultural traditions into our work.
(872) 266-1780 View (872) 266-1780
Carlton Hemphill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, BC-TMH, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with neurodivergent adults in their 20s and 30s who have Autism, ADHD, or both, and who often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward.
I use a collaborative, CBT-informed, relational, and strength-based approach to help you explore patterns, clarify your values, and better understand the challenges you might be encountering. Together, we’ll define your goals and build on your strengths in a practical, affirming space, supporting your growth at your own pace.
I work with neurodivergent adults in their 20s and 30s who have Autism, ADHD, or both, and who often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward.
I use a collaborative, CBT-informed, relational, and strength-based approach to help you explore patterns, clarify your values, and better understand the challenges you might be encountering. Together, we’ll define your goals and build on your strengths in a practical, affirming space, supporting your growth at your own pace.
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F. Cary Shepard
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60614
I work with client who may be struggling with a variety of issues, including working with neurodivergent clients, clients with chronic illness or disability, and clients with diverse experiences of gender and sexuality.
If you are someone who finds yourself in the grip of anxiety, grief, depression, or any other symptom or trait that makes it hard to function in this world, I would be honored to work with you. I am passionate about working with clients who feel like they don’t fit in, who feel marginalized, or who feel as though their identities are being overlooked or rejected. No matter your experience or identity, I seek to offer support, validation, and aid. Some of my main areas of focus include anxiety and mood concerns, discovery around gender and sexuality, as well as support for lived experience of neurodivergence and disability.
I work with client who may be struggling with a variety of issues, including working with neurodivergent clients, clients with chronic illness or disability, and clients with diverse experiences of gender and sexuality.
If you are someone who finds yourself in the grip of anxiety, grief, depression, or any other symptom or trait that makes it hard to function in this world, I would be honored to work with you. I am passionate about working with clients who feel like they don’t fit in, who feel marginalized, or who feel as though their identities are being overlooked or rejected. No matter your experience or identity, I seek to offer support, validation, and aid. Some of my main areas of focus include anxiety and mood concerns, discovery around gender and sexuality, as well as support for lived experience of neurodivergence and disability.
(224) 362-0117 View (224) 362-0117
Dr. Audra J Tousaint
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Her clinical work centers high-achieving Black women navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, burnout, emotional overwhelm, and the invisible weight of being “the strong one
Her work is culturally responsive, neurodivergence-affirming, and rooted in helping women move from over functioning and survival mode into emotional regulation, self-trust, and sustainable success.
Her clinical work centers high-achieving Black women navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, burnout, emotional overwhelm, and the invisible weight of being “the strong one
Her work is culturally responsive, neurodivergence-affirming, and rooted in helping women move from over functioning and survival mode into emotional regulation, self-trust, and sustainable success.
(217) 669-4232 View (217) 669-4232
Jenna Nedbalek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly those navigating autism, ADHD, anxiety, and sensory or emotional regulation challenges.
I offer a warm, flexible, and low-pressure space where clients can show up exactly as they are. I honor sensory needs and nervous system responses, incorporating mindfulness practices to bring gentle awareness to our experiences. I often use somatic strategies to support connection and foster the embodied sense of safety that is essential for growth.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly those navigating autism, ADHD, anxiety, and sensory or emotional regulation challenges.
I offer a warm, flexible, and low-pressure space where clients can show up exactly as they are. I honor sensory needs and nervous system responses, incorporating mindfulness practices to bring gentle awareness to our experiences. I often use somatic strategies to support connection and foster the embodied sense of safety that is essential for growth.
(312) 313-4478 View (312) 313-4478
Porter H Green
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
My ideal client is someone who is feeling stuck in their life and who is looking for the tools and support to make changes. I believe that sadness and hardship are as much a part of the human experience as happiness and joy. Our pain becomes suffering when we try to push it away or avoid experiencing it all together. Therapy is the process of accepting the self as it is in a mix of strengths and weaknesses and finding the willingness to experience the present moment. Connection with values allows us to make mindful choices in our behavior.
My ideal client is someone who is feeling stuck in their life and who is looking for the tools and support to make changes. I believe that sadness and hardship are as much a part of the human experience as happiness and joy. Our pain becomes suffering when we try to push it away or avoid experiencing it all together. Therapy is the process of accepting the self as it is in a mix of strengths and weaknesses and finding the willingness to experience the present moment. Connection with values allows us to make mindful choices in our behavior.
(872) 278-8023 View (872) 278-8023
Madeline Hawley
Verified Verified
Online Only
I love working to build learner’s communication to express themselves beyond just their basic wants and needs, their emotional regulation tools to face any situations, and their social interaction skills to joyfully interact with those in their environment. I work best with caregivers who want to see change in their child, but don’t know what to do. Caregivers who are overwhelmed and burnt out are welcome here.
I love working to build learner’s communication to express themselves beyond just their basic wants and needs, their emotional regulation tools to face any situations, and their social interaction skills to joyfully interact with those in their environment. I work best with caregivers who want to see change in their child, but don’t know what to do. Caregivers who are overwhelmed and burnt out are welcome here.
(312) 748-1817 View (312) 748-1817
Abbie Cronin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
The most important thing I want potential clients to know is that I truly love working with people. My therapeutic style is rooted in mutual respect and understanding; believing that with a safe and nonjudgmental environment, a more satisfying life can be achieved. With compassion, understanding and humor, we address thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors to promote meaningful growth. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, LBGTQ, grief and couples.
The most important thing I want potential clients to know is that I truly love working with people. My therapeutic style is rooted in mutual respect and understanding; believing that with a safe and nonjudgmental environment, a more satisfying life can be achieved. With compassion, understanding and humor, we address thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors to promote meaningful growth. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, LBGTQ, grief and couples.
(773) 974-9541 View (773) 974-9541
Melissa Mooney
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
Waitlist for new clients
My counseling approach is one focused on compassion and acceptance, as well as validation of what is while leaving room for curiosity around what could be. I know some things are just too much for one person to hold on their own. I intend to honor your own immense capability, while also providing some of the support, connection, and compassion that is so necessary for all of us to thrive.
My counseling approach is one focused on compassion and acceptance, as well as validation of what is while leaving room for curiosity around what could be. I know some things are just too much for one person to hold on their own. I intend to honor your own immense capability, while also providing some of the support, connection, and compassion that is so necessary for all of us to thrive.
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Samer Idrissi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
I specialize in: PTSD, complex trauma, Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, identity exploration, LGBTQ+ concerns, immigrant/refugee mental health, displacement, belonging, shame, and relationship patterns.
Meow, I'm so glad you've arrived! You may be feeling anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure of where you belong. I work with people navigating complex trauma and societal rejection. I also support LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse clients. I have a particular focus in SWANA, Palestinian, immigrant, refugee, and diasporic communities. At Nostos, we offer trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy that helps you better understand your own story, build self-trust. My goal is to help clients move toward connection, safety, and repair.
I specialize in: PTSD, complex trauma, Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, identity exploration, LGBTQ+ concerns, immigrant/refugee mental health, displacement, belonging, shame, and relationship patterns.
Meow, I'm so glad you've arrived! You may be feeling anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure of where you belong. I work with people navigating complex trauma and societal rejection. I also support LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse clients. I have a particular focus in SWANA, Palestinian, immigrant, refugee, and diasporic communities. At Nostos, we offer trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy that helps you better understand your own story, build self-trust. My goal is to help clients move toward connection, safety, and repair.
(815) 554-5903 View (815) 554-5903
Kristoffer Park
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, intergenerational trauma, childhood abuse, relational issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Asian-American/BIPOC issues, including cultural identity, racism, and family conflict.
Individuals raised by immigrant parents have all experienced cultural and generational gaps growing up. These conflicts can range from daily misunderstandings to complex intergenerational trauma. As a Korean-American, I specialize in supporting young adults and families understand how these conflicts impact their lives and provide a safe space of healing to overcome these difficulties. People who experience these conflicts can sometimes develop issues separating themselves from their inner critic, indecisiveness, feeling stuck in a vicious cycle, a lack of purpose and identity, and a sense of emptiness about the future.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, intergenerational trauma, childhood abuse, relational issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Asian-American/BIPOC issues, including cultural identity, racism, and family conflict.
Individuals raised by immigrant parents have all experienced cultural and generational gaps growing up. These conflicts can range from daily misunderstandings to complex intergenerational trauma. As a Korean-American, I specialize in supporting young adults and families understand how these conflicts impact their lives and provide a safe space of healing to overcome these difficulties. People who experience these conflicts can sometimes develop issues separating themselves from their inner critic, indecisiveness, feeling stuck in a vicious cycle, a lack of purpose and identity, and a sense of emptiness about the future.
(470) 516-8455 View (470) 516-8455
DGE Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, SAP
Online Only
Veronica King, PhD is a licensed Clinical Psychologist. DGE Psychological Services P.C. is a group she opened to provide services for adults, couples, and families with a wide range of mental health issues. The practice also includes SAP evaluations and Group Therapy.
Veronica King, PhD is a licensed Clinical Psychologist. DGE Psychological Services P.C. is a group she opened to provide services for adults, couples, and families with a wide range of mental health issues. The practice also includes SAP evaluations and Group Therapy.
(708) 960-8455 View (708) 960-8455
Michael Chamberlain
Psychologist, LP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Chamberlain and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I earned my doctorate of clinical psychology in 2010 from Pacific University School of Graduate Psychology in Portland, Oregon. Prior to re-entering the field as a therapist and neuropsychological evaluator in 2021, I had a career in international corporate mental health benefits. In that role, I oversaw clinical service delivery at various organizations across the globe. I currently split my time between , conducting neuropsychological assessment and testing, and providing individual therapy to adults.
Hello, my name is Dr. Chamberlain and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I earned my doctorate of clinical psychology in 2010 from Pacific University School of Graduate Psychology in Portland, Oregon. Prior to re-entering the field as a therapist and neuropsychological evaluator in 2021, I had a career in international corporate mental health benefits. In that role, I oversaw clinical service delivery at various organizations across the globe. I currently split my time between , conducting neuropsychological assessment and testing, and providing individual therapy to adults.
(872) 295-7627 View (872) 295-7627
Dr. Adam Martinson
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with a variety of issues including but not limited to school problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have background and training in working with a diverse population of individuals across a variety of settings. I am currently licensed in Illinois and Michigan and I am accepting new clients.
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with a variety of issues including but not limited to school problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have background and training in working with a diverse population of individuals across a variety of settings. I am currently licensed in Illinois and Michigan and I am accepting new clients.
(872) 295-8496 View (872) 295-8496
Thriving Minds, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Online Only
I believe that finding the right therapist to assist you in your journey is often like finding a pair of shoes that has the right fit. This process can be arduous & can deter people from pursuing counseling. A key part of my clinical practice is to build rapport with my clients to assist them with feeling comfortable sharing what can be painful topics & issues. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most influential factors in assisting individuals to be successful in therapy and reach their goals. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community and I offer therapy in Spanish as well.
I believe that finding the right therapist to assist you in your journey is often like finding a pair of shoes that has the right fit. This process can be arduous & can deter people from pursuing counseling. A key part of my clinical practice is to build rapport with my clients to assist them with feeling comfortable sharing what can be painful topics & issues. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most influential factors in assisting individuals to be successful in therapy and reach their goals. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community and I offer therapy in Spanish as well.
(708) 726-4237 View (708) 726-4237
Amanda Jonikaitis-King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You've spent so much time taking care of others, meeting expectations, or trying to keep it all together that you've lost sight of what you need. Maybe you're struggling with self-doubt, people-pleasing, body image concerns, relationship issues, or feeling disconnected from who you are. Many of my clients are highly self-aware and understand where their struggles come from, but still feel stuck. Together, we create a space where you can show up fully as yourself, better understand your emotions and needs, and build the confidence to create meaningful change.
You've spent so much time taking care of others, meeting expectations, or trying to keep it all together that you've lost sight of what you need. Maybe you're struggling with self-doubt, people-pleasing, body image concerns, relationship issues, or feeling disconnected from who you are. Many of my clients are highly self-aware and understand where their struggles come from, but still feel stuck. Together, we create a space where you can show up fully as yourself, better understand your emotions and needs, and build the confidence to create meaningful change.
(872) 250-5082 View (872) 250-5082
Amber Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Chicago, IL 60612
Amber specializes in ADHD, autism, schizophrenia, and dual diagnosis, and enjoys working with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.
Amber Walker is a Licensed Master Social Worker from New Marshfield, Ohio. She holds a Master's degree in Social Work and is dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered, evidence-based care.
Amber specializes in ADHD, autism, schizophrenia, and dual diagnosis, and enjoys working with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.
Amber Walker is a Licensed Master Social Worker from New Marshfield, Ohio. She holds a Master's degree in Social Work and is dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered, evidence-based care.
(872) 465-9820 View (872) 465-9820
Lauren Neustadt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR, C-DBT, CCATP, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Life can feel overwhelming when emotions start to take over. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of worry, feeling unmotivated, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. Helping people navigate anxiety, depression, addiction, and other mood-related challenges is at the heart of my work as a therapist. I believe that emotions—even the painful ones—are signals that deserve understanding rather than judgment. My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe, supported, and genuinely heard while we explore what’s getting in the way of the life they want to live.
Life can feel overwhelming when emotions start to take over. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of worry, feeling unmotivated, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. Helping people navigate anxiety, depression, addiction, and other mood-related challenges is at the heart of my work as a therapist. I believe that emotions—even the painful ones—are signals that deserve understanding rather than judgment. My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe, supported, and genuinely heard while we explore what’s getting in the way of the life they want to live.
(708) 332-1597 View (708) 332-1597

See more therapy options for Chicago

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.