Autism Therapists in Gardiner, ME
I’m an eccentric, depth‑oriented therapist who blends radical honesty with a warm, grounded presence. I work with the unconscious, the body, and the patterns you’ve carried for years—often without realizing it. My approach is deeply trauma‑informed and somatically attuned, helping you understand how your story lives in both mind and body. If you’ve ever felt “too much” or misunderstood, this is a space where your complexity is welcomed and your truth can finally breathe.
I’m an eccentric, depth‑oriented therapist who blends radical honesty with a warm, grounded presence. I work with the unconscious, the body, and the patterns you’ve carried for years—often without realizing it. My approach is deeply trauma‑informed and somatically attuned, helping you understand how your story lives in both mind and body. If you’ve ever felt “too much” or misunderstood, this is a space where your complexity is welcomed and your truth can finally breathe.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stressed out? Frustrated with a close relationship? I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in stress and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples. I have a health psychology background and have helped many clients with chronic pain/illness, as well as making behavior changes such as weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking, & preparing for bariatric surgery.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stressed out? Frustrated with a close relationship? I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in stress and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples. I have a health psychology background and have helped many clients with chronic pain/illness, as well as making behavior changes such as weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking, & preparing for bariatric surgery.
More Therapists Nearby
I don't feel that you can describe an "ideal client". Each client comes with their own set of needs, goals and issues. I try to treat each client as an individual person with individual problems which empower them to find solutions that work for them. I feel that each client has the power within themselves to find their own path. I as their therapist is there to help them find that path and to stand beside them as they find the courage to take it.
I don't feel that you can describe an "ideal client". Each client comes with their own set of needs, goals and issues. I try to treat each client as an individual person with individual problems which empower them to find solutions that work for them. I feel that each client has the power within themselves to find their own path. I as their therapist is there to help them find that path and to stand beside them as they find the courage to take it.
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.
I am a neurodivergent-affirming psychologist with specialty in neurodevelopment disorders ( ASD, ADHD, ID, Tourette's Disorder, Learning Disorders), but I also evaluate other conditions such as concussions, neurodegenerative conditions, mental health diagnoses, and more!
I believe in empowerment through understanding. Neuropsychological testing provides the key to understanding how your brain works, giving you or your child the tools to better navigate life.
I know that starting an evaluation can be an overwhelming step, and I'm committed to making the process feel collaborative and supportive. My comprehensive evaluations take into account every unique aspect of your personal journey. You will walk away with more than just an understanding of yourself; you will receive practical, individualized recommendations to maximize your strengths and build a more fulfilling life.
I am a neurodivergent-affirming psychologist with specialty in neurodevelopment disorders ( ASD, ADHD, ID, Tourette's Disorder, Learning Disorders), but I also evaluate other conditions such as concussions, neurodegenerative conditions, mental health diagnoses, and more!
I believe in empowerment through understanding. Neuropsychological testing provides the key to understanding how your brain works, giving you or your child the tools to better navigate life.
I know that starting an evaluation can be an overwhelming step, and I'm committed to making the process feel collaborative and supportive. My comprehensive evaluations take into account every unique aspect of your personal journey. You will walk away with more than just an understanding of yourself; you will receive practical, individualized recommendations to maximize your strengths and build a more fulfilling life.
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.
My approach to working with patients is called Mind-Body Integrative Psychotherapy. Mind-Body Integrative psychotherapy is an approach to healing ones emotional, spiritual and physical well being in the here and now while also giving the patient tools that create long-lasting positive changes. My approach blends conventional psychotherapeutic strategies, including the recommendation of medications when deemed necessary, with evidence-based, natural, less invasive therapies (e.g. dietary change, meditation, acupuncture, yoga, herbal medicine and therapeutic massage).
My approach to working with patients is called Mind-Body Integrative Psychotherapy. Mind-Body Integrative psychotherapy is an approach to healing ones emotional, spiritual and physical well being in the here and now while also giving the patient tools that create long-lasting positive changes. My approach blends conventional psychotherapeutic strategies, including the recommendation of medications when deemed necessary, with evidence-based, natural, less invasive therapies (e.g. dietary change, meditation, acupuncture, yoga, herbal medicine and therapeutic massage).
Many of my clients are navigating anxiety, OCD, neurodivergence (including autism), burnout, and the exhaustion that comes from trying to “keep up” while feeling internally overloaded.
A lot of my work focuses on: Anxiety/overthinking that won’t shut off, OCD and intrusive thought patterns, Nervous system overload, Learning your real capacity (not the one you’ve been forcing yourself to meet), Boundary setting and reducing people-pleasing, Developing a supportive internal voice instead of a self-critical one,Practical, real-life strategies
Many of my clients are navigating anxiety, OCD, neurodivergence (including autism), burnout, and the exhaustion that comes from trying to “keep up” while feeling internally overloaded.
A lot of my work focuses on: Anxiety/overthinking that won’t shut off, OCD and intrusive thought patterns, Nervous system overload, Learning your real capacity (not the one you’ve been forcing yourself to meet), Boundary setting and reducing people-pleasing, Developing a supportive internal voice instead of a self-critical one,Practical, real-life strategies
I celebrate diversity including adhd/ autism, queerness, race and love styles.
Pajama Forward Therapist here! If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you.
I celebrate diversity including adhd/ autism, queerness, race and love styles.
Pajama Forward Therapist here! If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you.
Kella River
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, MT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I provide assessments for ADHD and ASD for adolescents and adults.
Therapy provides an opportunity to be empathically heard, to gain insight into thoughts and behaviors, to identify and practice healthy coping skills and to cultivate growth and resilience in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. I offer a trauma-informed approach for a variety of client needs, utilizing traditional psychotherapy and other techniques such as EMDR, play therapy, guided imagery therapy, biofield tuning and other somatic tools to promote healing and wellness.
I provide assessments for ADHD and ASD for adolescents and adults.
Therapy provides an opportunity to be empathically heard, to gain insight into thoughts and behaviors, to identify and practice healthy coping skills and to cultivate growth and resilience in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. I offer a trauma-informed approach for a variety of client needs, utilizing traditional psychotherapy and other techniques such as EMDR, play therapy, guided imagery therapy, biofield tuning and other somatic tools to promote healing and wellness.
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.
I have significant experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, ADHD and autism.
I offer high flexibility in scheduling in an effort to provide treatment options that work for busy people including evening and weekends. I keep my practice small so that I can accommodate my clients as much as possible.
I have significant experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, ADHD and autism.
I offer high flexibility in scheduling in an effort to provide treatment options that work for busy people including evening and weekends. I keep my practice small so that I can accommodate my clients as much as possible.
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 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.
In the adult client, I especially enjoy witnessing one's ability to reject ineffective patterns of thinking in order to reach and sustain personal growth. Facing what we find to recognize either by internal or external forces that needs correction, is the first step in the process of effecting change. In adolescents, a shift to effect change can be a bit more challenging but no fault of theirs. Helping clients to navigate the life courses; expected and unexpected can be an exciting process to experience.
In the adult client, I especially enjoy witnessing one's ability to reject ineffective patterns of thinking in order to reach and sustain personal growth. Facing what we find to recognize either by internal or external forces that needs correction, is the first step in the process of effecting change. In adolescents, a shift to effect change can be a bit more challenging but no fault of theirs. Helping clients to navigate the life courses; expected and unexpected can be an exciting process to experience.
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.
As my practice’s name implies, we can all feel broken at times. And to compound matters, we might face discrimination through no fault of our own—on the basis of race, sexual orientation, gender, finances, age, health or ability status, or neurocognitive differences. In my years of practice with the chronically ill and under-housed, I’ve seen and addressed the fallout from stigma and institutional barriers all day every day. So that’s the bad news, which you probably already know.
As my practice’s name implies, we can all feel broken at times. And to compound matters, we might face discrimination through no fault of our own—on the basis of race, sexual orientation, gender, finances, age, health or ability status, or neurocognitive differences. In my years of practice with the chronically ill and under-housed, I’ve seen and addressed the fallout from stigma and institutional barriers all day every day. So that’s the bad news, which you probably already know.
I provide trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming telehealth therapy for adults — especially women and high-achieving moms who are tired of pushing through, exhausted from masking, and wanting to live more authentically.
I offer realistic, caring, empathetic strength based therapy for people who are looking to live authentically and curate a life that is meaningful
I offer telehealth therapy services to people in Maine, Utah, Connecticut and Florida.
I provide trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming telehealth therapy for adults — especially women and high-achieving moms who are tired of pushing through, exhausted from masking, and wanting to live more authentically.
I offer realistic, caring, empathetic strength based therapy for people who are looking to live authentically and curate a life that is meaningful
I offer telehealth therapy services to people in Maine, Utah, Connecticut and Florida.
I specialize in working with trans, non-binary, gender-expansive, Queer and neurodivergent folks on a variety of issues including BPD, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression and all manner of life transitions.
We each have an authentic self, and things we know to be deeply true about our hearts, minds, identities and lives. I believe that no matter how confused we may feel, we can all find our way back to what is unique, creative and courageous in ourselves. These are wild times. There is nothing maladjusted about feeling anxious or depressed in a world that does not feel equitable or safe. My goal is not to help you adjust to broken things; it is to build upon the strengths of your identity, your values and your truth, and to hold space for all of the parts of you that need to be heard and seen.
I specialize in working with trans, non-binary, gender-expansive, Queer and neurodivergent folks on a variety of issues including BPD, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression and all manner of life transitions.
We each have an authentic self, and things we know to be deeply true about our hearts, minds, identities and lives. I believe that no matter how confused we may feel, we can all find our way back to what is unique, creative and courageous in ourselves. These are wild times. There is nothing maladjusted about feeling anxious or depressed in a world that does not feel equitable or safe. My goal is not to help you adjust to broken things; it is to build upon the strengths of your identity, your values and your truth, and to hold space for all of the parts of you that need to be heard and seen.
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.
See more therapy options for Gardiner
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.