Autism Therapists in Brunswick, ME
In particular, I have extensive training in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders using the ADOS-2.
Parenting is often one of the most fulfilling and challenging roles we will have in our lives. Recognizing that our child is struggling and advocating for them takes a lot of effort and time. One important aspect of advocating for your child is having an accurate diagnosis that is based on a thorough assessment. I can help you with that process. I have 19 years of experience assessing children ages 3-18, and I have worked in the Maine mental health system throughout that time.
In particular, I have extensive training in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders using the ADOS-2.
Parenting is often one of the most fulfilling and challenging roles we will have in our lives. Recognizing that our child is struggling and advocating for them takes a lot of effort and time. One important aspect of advocating for your child is having an accurate diagnosis that is based on a thorough assessment. I can help you with that process. I have 19 years of experience assessing children ages 3-18, and I have worked in the Maine mental health system throughout that time.
I provide autism evaluations for toddlers, children, teens, and adults, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and meaningful next steps.
While autism is the primary focus, I also specialize in careful differentiation, including distinguishing autism from or identifying co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. This is especially important when presentations are complex, subtle, or have been previously misunderstood.
I provide autism evaluations for toddlers, children, teens, and adults, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and meaningful next steps.
While autism is the primary focus, I also specialize in careful differentiation, including distinguishing autism from or identifying co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. This is especially important when presentations are complex, subtle, or have been previously misunderstood.
I offer psychological evaluations to assess for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD) in children (ages 6 and up) and adults.
My services are intended to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality evaluations for those seeking diagnostic clarity for school, work, or personal insight.
I offer psychological evaluations to assess for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD) in children (ages 6 and up) and adults.
My services are intended to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality evaluations for those seeking diagnostic clarity for school, work, or personal insight.
Creativity can be a powerful tool, and modality for expression. With my extensive experience and training in Expressive Therapies, I specialize in Art Therapy and Play Therapy to treat a variety of emotional and behavioral issues with children. In my practice I believe that everyone has the ability to be creative, and I work with clients to utilize their strengths in traditional and non-traditional treatment approaches to work towards goals. Through a trusting therapeutic rapport I work with clients to explore and address issues, so that they may access and obtain healthy growth and change.
Creativity can be a powerful tool, and modality for expression. With my extensive experience and training in Expressive Therapies, I specialize in Art Therapy and Play Therapy to treat a variety of emotional and behavioral issues with children. In my practice I believe that everyone has the ability to be creative, and I work with clients to utilize their strengths in traditional and non-traditional treatment approaches to work towards goals. Through a trusting therapeutic rapport I work with clients to explore and address issues, so that they may access and obtain healthy growth and change.
Change can be tough, and sometimes it feels like life is throwing you a curveball you didn't see coming. My ideal client is someone who has carried heavy expectations, invisible burdens, or constant pressure and is ready to pause, breathe, and simply be. I specialize in helping teens, young adults, adults, and seniors find their footing during challenging transitions. You won't find fancy therapy terms or complicated coping skills here. Instead, we'll focus on practical, real-life strategies that fit your day-to-day routine.
Change can be tough, and sometimes it feels like life is throwing you a curveball you didn't see coming. My ideal client is someone who has carried heavy expectations, invisible burdens, or constant pressure and is ready to pause, breathe, and simply be. I specialize in helping teens, young adults, adults, and seniors find their footing during challenging transitions. You won't find fancy therapy terms or complicated coping skills here. Instead, we'll focus on practical, real-life strategies that fit your day-to-day routine.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
Much of my work focuses on supporting individuals navigating neurodiversity—including ASD, NVLD, and ADHD—as well as anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
My clinical approach is systems-oriented and relational, with an integration of cognitive behavioral techniques. I have training in motivational interviewing, executive functioning, neurodiversity, and fostering relational safety. By fostering relational safety, curiosity, and self-understanding, my clients identify patterns and strengthen coping strategies.
Much of my work focuses on supporting individuals navigating neurodiversity—including ASD, NVLD, and ADHD—as well as anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
My clinical approach is systems-oriented and relational, with an integration of cognitive behavioral techniques. I have training in motivational interviewing, executive functioning, neurodiversity, and fostering relational safety. By fostering relational safety, curiosity, and self-understanding, my clients identify patterns and strengthen coping strategies.
Life can be hard. Being able to talk about what’s happening in your life is important although sometimes challenging. I hope during our time together we will create a relationship of trust. Trust that it’s safe to open up. Trust to see that your feelings are valid and that with support and learning new skills you will reach the other side stronger and wiser.
Life can be hard. Being able to talk about what’s happening in your life is important although sometimes challenging. I hope during our time together we will create a relationship of trust. Trust that it’s safe to open up. Trust to see that your feelings are valid and that with support and learning new skills you will reach the other side stronger and wiser.
If you are someone who experiences anxiety, depression, chronic medical illness, disordered eating, difficulties with life transitions, or a history of trauma, I would be happy to work with you.
If you are someone who experiences anxiety, depression, chronic medical illness, disordered eating, difficulties with life transitions, or a history of trauma, I would be happy to work with you.
Focused on healing through trauma-informed, body-based care and grounded in family systems theory, I draw on a range of counseling approaches including; psychodynamic, transpersonal, existential, expressive, mindfulness, mind-body, behavioral (DBT and CBT). Together we sojourn toward self-awareness and compassion for self. Emblematic moments from the past may have become conditioned responses to the present. We focus both on here and now and historical events. TAT (Tapas Acupressure Technique), mindfulness, sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing help re-program stored arousal in the body.
Focused on healing through trauma-informed, body-based care and grounded in family systems theory, I draw on a range of counseling approaches including; psychodynamic, transpersonal, existential, expressive, mindfulness, mind-body, behavioral (DBT and CBT). Together we sojourn toward self-awareness and compassion for self. Emblematic moments from the past may have become conditioned responses to the present. We focus both on here and now and historical events. TAT (Tapas Acupressure Technique), mindfulness, sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing help re-program stored arousal in the body.
I am currently running three popular online groups for adults with ADHD. Look at my groups information on this page and visit our website for details. I have new groups beginning in September for adults joining anywhere from the state of Maine. I also offer individual therapy for adults.
I am currently running three popular online groups for adults with ADHD. Look at my groups information on this page and visit our website for details. I have new groups beginning in September for adults joining anywhere from the state of Maine. I also offer individual therapy for adults.
Tia Sprague, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, provides compassionate and solution-focused therapy to individuals across the state of Maine. She offers a supportive space for clients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, specializing in crisis intervention and safety planning. With years of experience working in crisis settings, Tia helps patients navigate challenging moments while focusing on their safety and emotional well-being. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, she tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.Tia Sprague, a Licensed Cl
Tia Sprague, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, provides compassionate and solution-focused therapy to individuals across the state of Maine. She offers a supportive space for clients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, specializing in crisis intervention and safety planning. With years of experience working in crisis settings, Tia helps patients navigate challenging moments while focusing on their safety and emotional well-being. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, she tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.Tia Sprague, a Licensed Cl
He frequently tests for questions related to attention-deficit difficulties, hyperactivity, behavior associated with autism, oppositional behavior, social skill difficulties, mood dysregulation, developmental delays, learning difficulties, anxiety, and trauma.
Dr. Carnicella completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Hanover College, his Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Indiana University, and his Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from The University at Albany, SUNY. He completed a two-year postdoctoral position with Bowdoin College’s counseling services center. Dr. Carnicella has been practicing psychology in Maine for seven years. He has experience completing psychological evaluations with young children, college students, and adults.
He frequently tests for questions related to attention-deficit difficulties, hyperactivity, behavior associated with autism, oppositional behavior, social skill difficulties, mood dysregulation, developmental delays, learning difficulties, anxiety, and trauma.
Dr. Carnicella completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Hanover College, his Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Indiana University, and his Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from The University at Albany, SUNY. He completed a two-year postdoctoral position with Bowdoin College’s counseling services center. Dr. Carnicella has been practicing psychology in Maine for seven years. He has experience completing psychological evaluations with young children, college students, and adults.
I have significant experience working with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorders, PTSD, marital and relationship issues, as well as life changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 25 years experience, providing treatment for adolescents, adults and families.
I have significant experience working with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorders, PTSD, marital and relationship issues, as well as life changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 25 years experience, providing treatment for adolescents, adults and families.
Abbie Leary is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine who has been practicing since 2006. Abbie has worked in the mental health field for more than 15 years in a range of settings from crisis response to addiction to acute psychiatric care. She provides individual and group therapy for adults seeking help with depression and anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, anger management, codependency and attachment issues, addiction, as well as life stage transitions. Abbie utilizes therapeutic modalities including DBT, CBT, and ACT. Additionally, Abbie has expertise in the area of domestic violence.
Abbie Leary is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine who has been practicing since 2006. Abbie has worked in the mental health field for more than 15 years in a range of settings from crisis response to addiction to acute psychiatric care. She provides individual and group therapy for adults seeking help with depression and anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, anger management, codependency and attachment issues, addiction, as well as life stage transitions. Abbie utilizes therapeutic modalities including DBT, CBT, and ACT. Additionally, Abbie has expertise in the area of domestic violence.
Audrey Shaw, MS, LCPC, brings over a decade of experience to LifeStance Health, serving the state of Maine. She is dedicated to helping clients by fostering genuine connections, creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel understood and accepted. Audrey leverages her extensive expertise to tailor therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each client, facilitating their journey towards personal growth and goal achievement.
Audrey Shaw, MS, LCPC, brings over a decade of experience to LifeStance Health, serving the state of Maine. She is dedicated to helping clients by fostering genuine connections, creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel understood and accepted. Audrey leverages her extensive expertise to tailor therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each client, facilitating their journey towards personal growth and goal achievement.
Updated for July: I have openings for Mainecare and Cash Pay clients! I respond to all outreaches!
I often work with people who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck—those who want to better understand themselves and improve their relationships. Much of my work is with adults who grew up in rigid or emotionally restrictive environments, including religious settings, as well as men who feel disconnected from their emotions or relationships and want to understand themselves more deeply.
I take a relational, emotionally focused approach to explore how past experiences and relationships may be shaping present-day patterns.
Updated for July: I have openings for Mainecare and Cash Pay clients! I respond to all outreaches!
I often work with people who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck—those who want to better understand themselves and improve their relationships. Much of my work is with adults who grew up in rigid or emotionally restrictive environments, including religious settings, as well as men who feel disconnected from their emotions or relationships and want to understand themselves more deeply.
I take a relational, emotionally focused approach to explore how past experiences and relationships may be shaping present-day patterns.
If you have a child age 4-10 who has autism, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, or depression; they may respond well to my treatment.
While working with me, your child will learn to name feelings, voice their needs in healthy ways, and to self-soothe. We do this through imaginative play, physical movement, and connection with nature.
If you have a child age 4-10 who has autism, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, or depression; they may respond well to my treatment.
While working with me, your child will learn to name feelings, voice their needs in healthy ways, and to self-soothe. We do this through imaginative play, physical movement, and connection with nature.
Currently I have limited openings for in-person sessions, and you can book with me now by clicking on my website link. No need to check with me before booking. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience supporting families in a variety of roles in Maine and I provide individual counseling to adults and teens in person at my office in Bath. I have experience supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorder, self injurious behaviors, and eating disorders. I am a LGBTQIA+ ally.
Currently I have limited openings for in-person sessions, and you can book with me now by clicking on my website link. No need to check with me before booking. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience supporting families in a variety of roles in Maine and I provide individual counseling to adults and teens in person at my office in Bath. I have experience supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorder, self injurious behaviors, and eating disorders. I am a LGBTQIA+ ally.
Taking the first step toward therapy or evaluation can feel daunting, but finding the right fit is key. I provide a warm, welcoming space where children, teens, young adults (up to age 26), and families feel supported and respected. I focus on building strong relationships, meeting clients where they are, and helping them feel understood and empowered while navigating challenges like anxiety, ADHD, trauma, depression, or family stress.
Taking the first step toward therapy or evaluation can feel daunting, but finding the right fit is key. I provide a warm, welcoming space where children, teens, young adults (up to age 26), and families feel supported and respected. I focus on building strong relationships, meeting clients where they are, and helping them feel understood and empowered while navigating challenges like anxiety, ADHD, trauma, depression, or family stress.
See more therapy options for Brunswick
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Brunswick
- Auburn
- Bath
- Cape Elizabeth
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Harpswell
- Lewiston
- Portland
- South Portland
- Westbrook
- Windham
- Yarmouth
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.