Autism Therapists in Indianapolis, IN
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Tracy M. Gale
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified
Verified
I am passionate about working with individuals with
autism
spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disabilities and supporting their families as they navigate home, school, and community. I believe strongly that our goal should never be to "cure" the individual with
autism
or make them fit the world but rather to help them be their most successful self by providing education, support, and accommodations as necessary. I also believe that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work, and each individual and family should be provided with supports that are tailored to them and are evaluated regularly as they grow and develop.

Laurie Budlong-Morse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
7 Endorsed
Verified
7 Endorsed
Are you in a neurodiverse relationship or exploring the possibility that you or your partner may be on the
autism
spectrum? When you and your partner are wired differently, it can be easy to misunderstand each other and to feel disconnected from one another. Unintended hurts can accumulate over time, causing feelings of resentment and hopelessness. Attempts to create change in your relationship start with good intentions and earnest promises, but then too often the same challenges pop right back up. While your differences may be part of what you most love about one another, at times it can feel impossible to find common ground.

Kara Gogolew
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, Ed
Verified
Verified
My name is Kara! I am a Masters Level clinician. I have been working with kids and families for the last seven years, specifically with
autism
as a BCBA. Through this work, I found additional interest in increasing mental health awareness across all populations and pursued a second Master's degree in counseling and counselor education. I specialize in working with children and adolescents who are neurodiverse and neurotypical, but work with adults and families as well! I am happy to help you navigate the ups and downs that life brings.

Alexandra Bender
MA, BCBA
Verified
Verified
Is your child struggling to communicate efficiently, having meltdowns at the store, or lacking play skills that help keep them occupied? Are you on a long waitlist for full-time ABA services or awaiting an
Autism
diagnosis? Don't fall into limbo while you are needing support.

Jennifer Horn
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified
Verified
My areas of specialty include
Autism
Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Anxiety, Learning difficulties, Depression, and Developmental Disorders (e.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work exclusively with children/adolescents and their families to help youth reach their fullest potential. To reach this goal, my practice is limited to providing testing to define diagnostic issues and treatment planning. I also work closely and cooperatively with community service providers such as schools and physicians/medical providers during the testing process and afterwards. On a very limited basis, I also provide supportive treatment progress monitoring to children and their families. I

Autism Parent Care
PhD, BCBA
Autism
is not a medical condition needing "treatment." Rather, it is an opportunity to work intensively on personal growth starting with the child's diagnosis, and then extending to the family, the professionals, schools, communities and finally the governments.

Jennifer L Godar
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified
Verified
I have a special interest in the evaluation and treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder,
Autism
Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, social problems, stress management, adjustment disorders, and learning difficulties (e.
**ONLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR TESTING (NOT THERAPY) AT THIS TIME** I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychological services primarily for children, adolescents, and families throughout the community. I completed my Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Indianapolis, obtaining specialized training in working with children, adolescents, and families.

Aimee Dershowitz
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified
Verified
I am trained in working with
Autism
Spectrum Disorder, Parent/Child Dyad concerns, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Behavioral Disorders, OCD, among many other concerns.
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
Waitlist for new clients

Grace Hanson
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in working with children and teens who have troubles managing emotions, such as emotions that are too intense, as well as individuals with
Autism
Spectrum Disorder.
Coming to counseling is no easy feat, and finding the right counselor can seem daunting. Life experience has helped me to understand this firsthand and is what drives my work as a counselor. It is my hope that through the process of building the therapeutic relationship, I can offer clients treatment modalities that are tailored to their needs. I value the counseling relationship and desire to practice with a client-centered approach. I have experience working with families, specifically with children and adolescent clients. My clinical passions include working with those struggling with difficult emotions and complicated grief.

Angela Fisher
MS, PT, CST, TY, PhD
I tend to have stellar success with anxiety and trauma, adult
autism
and gender dysphoria.
I am a client centric therapist who practices both Eastern and Western treatments. My ideal client is one who desires change and is willing to put in the effort. I believe that nothing is insurmountable and together we will create an all inclusive approach to live your fullest and happiest life. My specialties include certifications from both national and international modalities. If you are looking for a judgement free zone to get started or moving again on your journey, this is it. I am problem solving oriented and judgement free. Schedule a consultation now https://angela-fisher.clientsecure.me/

Susie Galford
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, HSPP
Verified
Verified
Dr. Susie Galford offers assessment and therapeutic mental health services for children, teens, and young adults. She is a licensed psychologist (HSPP), nationally certified school psychologist (NCSP), and licensed teacher (grades K-6) in Indiana. Dr. Galford has specialized training in the evaluation of
Autism
Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, intellectual and executive functioning, developmental challenges, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties. Her clinical work is grounded in evidence-based research and employs a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach to assessment and therapy.
Not accepting new clients

Brain Performance and Psychology Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified
Verified
In addition to
Autism
and ADHD, my specialties include anxiety, depression, and relationship issues for adolescents and adults.
Sometimes, life can feel overwhelming and even the strongest of us can use support. Whether you are a caretaker looking for the next steps for your child, a student struggling at school, or an individual working to build a better life, there is a place for you here!
O'Brien Psychological Services, Inc
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified
Verified
Since 2000, O'Brien Psychological Services has provided psychological evaluations. He currently has two locations (Indianapolis and Kokomo). Dr. O'Brien is particularly interested in psychological evaluations and consultation but, from time to time, he will accept clients for psychotherapy services. His assessment clients have included, but are not limited to, the following: psychiatric hospitals, bariatric surgery patients, international adoption clients, juvenile courts, medical practices,
autism
treatment centers, other mental health professionals, and various state and federal agencies. I am also very honored and humbled by the many professionals in the field of human services who could have gone anywhere for psychological services but who trusted me to provide assessments and consulting services for their own family members.

Emmaleigh Badeaux
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified
Verified
I also specialize in helping children with developmental disabilities, including
autism
, to learn social and adaptive skills.
I enjoy working with children, teens, and families who are motivated to make changes to improve their lives. We could all use more joy in our lives, and I am passionate about setting people up for success. For parents, I pride myself on being able to empower them with the skills to parent children who present unique challenges. For children and teens, I provide a safe place where they can share their experiences and increase their skill sets.

Madison Gentry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I also have experience in working with individuals with
Autism
Spectrum Disorder, individuals in the LBGTQIA+ community, and individuals/couples facing relationship struggles.
I have immediate openings available for individuals from all walks of life and I now have openings for clients seeking EMDR. Making the choice to start your therapy journey doesn't come easily. It often takes hitting a low point, feeling isolated, or stuck. When you feel like that dark shadow is following you, forming a strong therapeutic relationship can bring back the light in your life. As a therapist, I am here to guide you, support you, and provide a mirror for you to learn more about yourself and how to heal. You are here because you still have hope, and I am here to help you foster that hope into a brighter future.

Heather Meyer
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified
Verified
I have experience with such issues as: ADHD,
Autism
, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Health/Pain Issues and Relationship Challenges.
I will help you get through your difficult life challenges so you can feel more confident, happy and whole. If you are struggling with your health, significant loss, or difficult circumstances within your family or work life, I can guide you, educate you, support you, connect you, and most importantly believe in you, so you can shift from hurt to hope, chaos to calm, and overwhelm to opportunity. I do this work because I truly believe each person is worthy to feel valued, heard, and understood and to have a fulfilling life that is meaningful and purposeful.

Haley Bring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Hello! I am a lighthearted, neurodiversity affirming, relationship-centered, licensed clinical social worker. I love helping my clients find ways to achieve emotional wellness, that is empowering and sustainable. I am believer in evidenced-based intervention but value the necessity of therapy being customized to the client. I specialize in neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD,
Autism
), anxiety disorders and the various trials and tribulations of parenting. I worked previously as a school social worker, and can support 504 and IEP consultations.

Richard Hugh Jones
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified
Verified
Many young people I evaluate and treat are on the
autism
spectrum.
While I see some adults for therapy, my education and experience has focused primarily on child and adolescent issues for the past 40+ years. I evaluate and treat kids 2 years and older, teens, and their families for a variety of issues. I collaborate with parents in obtaining services their child may need at school. I am practical and direct in my approach to treatment. I work with the child and parents together and separately, facilitating better communication and giving support and advice. Siblings are often included in family sessions. I look forward to working with your family.

Brittany S Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified
Verified
Welcome! I am a practicing LCSW with almost a decade of professional experience. I have degrees in psychology and social work and certification in drug and addiction studies. I serve adolescents, adults, and families dealing with pervasive mental, emotional and behavioral health needs as well as substance related needs. I provide therapeutic services to a wide range of clientele on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, parenting skills, ADHD, and
autism
spectrum disorders.

Stephanie Deel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a provisionally licensed Social Worker who helps children and families navigate life challenges associated with anxiety and depression,
Autism
, ADHD, grief and trauma. I especially enjoy working with women, school-age children and older individuals. I earned a Master’s in Social Work from Indiana University in 2019 and am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma, Motivational Interviewing and Strengths and Empowerment. My style is warm and engaging and I find compassion-focused strategies to be particularly effective as I help my clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
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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.