Autism Therapists in Portland, ME
I work with young adults and adults navigating neurodiverse experiences, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and mood concerns. My goal is to help you build resilience, increase self-understanding, and live in alignment with your values.
I believe meaningful change happens within the context of a safe, authentic therapeutic relationship. In our work together, you are the expert on your lived experience, and I bring clinical expertise to help us explore patterns, build insight, and move toward lasting change.
I work with young adults and adults navigating neurodiverse experiences, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and mood concerns. My goal is to help you build resilience, increase self-understanding, and live in alignment with your values.
I believe meaningful change happens within the context of a safe, authentic therapeutic relationship. In our work together, you are the expert on your lived experience, and I bring clinical expertise to help us explore patterns, build insight, and move toward lasting change.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent parents of neurodivergent kids — whether you've been formally diagnosed or are just starting to sense that something feels off, in yourself or in your child (or both!)
I have expertise in ADHD, autism, anxiety, and the parenting stress that comes with raising a child whose brain works differently than the world expects.
I hold an MSW from Boston College a PhD from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, where my doctoral research focused on mindfulness, emotion regulation, and parenting stress. I now focus my practice on helping parents identify and clear the emotional programming that keeps them stuck in unhelpful, ineffective parenting patterns.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent parents of neurodivergent kids — whether you've been formally diagnosed or are just starting to sense that something feels off, in yourself or in your child (or both!)
I have expertise in ADHD, autism, anxiety, and the parenting stress that comes with raising a child whose brain works differently than the world expects.
I hold an MSW from Boston College a PhD from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, where my doctoral research focused on mindfulness, emotion regulation, and parenting stress. I now focus my practice on helping parents identify and clear the emotional programming that keeps them stuck in unhelpful, ineffective parenting patterns.
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 also work closely with neurodivergent adults and queer folks who are tired of performing "normal
Pajama‑Forward Therapist here.
If white‑knuckling, self‑shaming, and "try harder" actually worked, you'd have been healed years ago. But for many of us—especially people whose minds race and don't easily power down—it doesn't. Rest can feel impossible. Sometimes substances, distraction, or other coping strategies become the only way to get through the day. That doesn't mean you're broken. It means you've been carrying a lot for a long time. There is more to life than survival mode. A calmer, more meaningful life is possible—but it usually requires going deeper and looking at what's underneath. I'll go there with you.
I also work closely with neurodivergent adults and queer folks who are tired of performing "normal
Pajama‑Forward Therapist here.
If white‑knuckling, self‑shaming, and "try harder" actually worked, you'd have been healed years ago. But for many of us—especially people whose minds race and don't easily power down—it doesn't. Rest can feel impossible. Sometimes substances, distraction, or other coping strategies become the only way to get through the day. That doesn't mean you're broken. It means you've been carrying a lot for a long time. There is more to life than survival mode. A calmer, more meaningful life is possible—but it usually requires going deeper and looking at what's underneath. I'll go there with you.
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.
Current openings for Adult Autism/ADHD Assessments and Group Therapy!
As an EMDR therapist and yoga teacher, I emphasize mind-body approaches that support you to develop self-insight through embodied awareness. Intentional healing and growth can be hard work, but shouldn’t feel scary. We’ll go at a pace that feels safe for you, and make sure we’re spending plenty of time celebrating wins and laughing.
Current openings for Adult Autism/ADHD Assessments and Group Therapy!
As an EMDR therapist and yoga teacher, I emphasize mind-body approaches that support you to develop self-insight through embodied awareness. Intentional healing and growth can be hard work, but shouldn’t feel scary. We’ll go at a pace that feels safe for you, and make sure we’re spending plenty of time celebrating wins and laughing.
Life’s ups and downs can make it difficult to live the way we truly want. Together, we can explore your values and what matters most to you, helping you gain insight and take meaningful steps toward your goals. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where you feel comfortable and understood. My approach is both compassionate and direct, designed to help you build confidence, deepen self-understanding, and achieve success in the ways that are most important to you.
Life’s ups and downs can make it difficult to live the way we truly want. Together, we can explore your values and what matters most to you, helping you gain insight and take meaningful steps toward your goals. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where you feel comfortable and understood. My approach is both compassionate and direct, designed to help you build confidence, deepen self-understanding, and achieve success in the ways that are most important to you.
I also have deep experience supporting neurodivergent clients, including autism and ADHD.
I have particular expertise in health anxiety, somatic and sensation-focused OCD, Pure-O, and intrusive thought themes that often carry shame or confusion. I also work closely with panic, agoraphobia, and OCD-neurodivergence overlap. I hold special interest in how OCD and anxiety can shape the male experience, identity, and self-trust.
I also have deep experience supporting neurodivergent clients, including autism and ADHD.
I have particular expertise in health anxiety, somatic and sensation-focused OCD, Pure-O, and intrusive thought themes that often carry shame or confusion. I also work closely with panic, agoraphobia, and OCD-neurodivergence overlap. I hold special interest in how OCD and anxiety can shape the male experience, identity, and self-trust.
How do our values impact our actions? How do our intersecting identities impact our lives? How do we create mindful attention to our whole experiences, even those that are painful? What are our nervous systems telling us? I am interested in exploring difficult questions with you and helping you examine and find acceptance in the story you tell yourself about your life. I see us as a pair of archaeologists on a dig: examining artifacts and exploring their significance.
How do our values impact our actions? How do our intersecting identities impact our lives? How do we create mindful attention to our whole experiences, even those that are painful? What are our nervous systems telling us? I am interested in exploring difficult questions with you and helping you examine and find acceptance in the story you tell yourself about your life. I see us as a pair of archaeologists on a dig: examining artifacts and exploring their significance.
About me. I believe that healing happens when we have the courage to become more fully ourselves. Therapy isn't about fixing what's wrong. It's about understanding your story, recognizing your strengths, and creating a life that reflects your values, rather than your fears. My goal is to create a holistic, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where every part of your story is welcome. Together, we'll explore the patterns that have helped you survive, honor what shaped you, and build the confidence to move toward the life you want to live. I see therapy as a collaborative partnership, grounded in authenticity, curiosity, and hope.
About me. I believe that healing happens when we have the courage to become more fully ourselves. Therapy isn't about fixing what's wrong. It's about understanding your story, recognizing your strengths, and creating a life that reflects your values, rather than your fears. My goal is to create a holistic, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where every part of your story is welcome. Together, we'll explore the patterns that have helped you survive, honor what shaped you, and build the confidence to move toward the life you want to live. I see therapy as a collaborative partnership, grounded in authenticity, curiosity, and hope.
They may be dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, challenging behavior, or burnout, along with difficulties with focus, motivation, and emotional regulation.
I’m a licensed psychologist and BCBA specializing in ADHD, autism, anxiety, mood-related challenges, and executive functioning. My approach is structured, active, and results-focused, using CBT and behavior therapy to build skills and achieve measurable progress. I also provide autism evaluations, behavioral parent coaching, and school consultation.
They may be dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, challenging behavior, or burnout, along with difficulties with focus, motivation, and emotional regulation.
I’m a licensed psychologist and BCBA specializing in ADHD, autism, anxiety, mood-related challenges, and executive functioning. My approach is structured, active, and results-focused, using CBT and behavior therapy to build skills and achieve measurable progress. I also provide autism evaluations, behavioral parent coaching, and school consultation.
" I help Autistic, ADHD, and Highly Sensitive (HSP) adults cultivate self-compassion and build a life that works with their brains, not against it.
I ask the questions that don't often get asked that help you slow down and challenge the way you think. We pay attention to what's happening in your body, not just your head, and work on cultivating compassion and acceptance for whatever shows up. With couples, I help you work through the tough conversations to finally hear each other and repair.
" I help Autistic, ADHD, and Highly Sensitive (HSP) adults cultivate self-compassion and build a life that works with their brains, not against it.
I ask the questions that don't often get asked that help you slow down and challenge the way you think. We pay attention to what's happening in your body, not just your head, and work on cultivating compassion and acceptance for whatever shows up. With couples, I help you work through the tough conversations to finally hear each other and repair.
Did you receive a late diagnosis of Autism or ADHD?
At The Bell Practice, we have the primary mission of providing research-backed and interventions for clients looking to make lasting change. The Bell Practice offers Therapy, Parent Coaching, and Assessments. We'll start with free 15 minute consultation to understand your goals are for treatment, and provide guidance on next steps.
Did you receive a late diagnosis of Autism or ADHD?
At The Bell Practice, we have the primary mission of providing research-backed and interventions for clients looking to make lasting change. The Bell Practice offers Therapy, Parent Coaching, and Assessments. We'll start with free 15 minute consultation to understand your goals are for treatment, and provide guidance on next steps.
As a mother of a neurodivergent (AuDHD) child, I understand the unique challenges these experiences can bring to parenting.
My background includes a Master’s in Social Work from the USC's School of Social Work, as well as specialized training in:
Executive Functioning, Neuro-affirming Practices, ADHD Assessments, Modified DBT for, Neurodivergent Clients, ACT for Perfectionism, ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider, and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist.
As a mother of a neurodivergent (AuDHD) child, I understand the unique challenges these experiences can bring to parenting.
My background includes a Master’s in Social Work from the USC's School of Social Work, as well as specialized training in:
Executive Functioning, Neuro-affirming Practices, ADHD Assessments, Modified DBT for, Neurodivergent Clients, ACT for Perfectionism, ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider, and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist.
As a queer, transgender, and neurodivergent counselor I know that this can be hard to find in relationships and want you to feel the comfort of these qualities throughout our work.
Specialties: gender exploration and transition, sexual identity development, emerging adulthood, big life changes, ASD and neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, co-dependency and individuation.
As a queer, transgender, and neurodivergent counselor I know that this can be hard to find in relationships and want you to feel the comfort of these qualities throughout our work.
Specialties: gender exploration and transition, sexual identity development, emerging adulthood, big life changes, ASD and neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, co-dependency and individuation.
I have a particular interest in helping neurodivergent folks and folks who are working towards or working in the helping professions.
It's important for my clients to feel heard, seen, and understood. I love deep conversations and learning and listening to my clients' experiences. When my clients meet with me, I'm all in - they have my undivided attention and emotional capacity. I enjoy guiding my clients to a place of self-acceptance and a life full of joy and meaning.
I have a particular interest in helping neurodivergent folks and folks who are working towards or working in the helping professions.
It's important for my clients to feel heard, seen, and understood. I love deep conversations and learning and listening to my clients' experiences. When my clients meet with me, I'm all in - they have my undivided attention and emotional capacity. I enjoy guiding my clients to a place of self-acceptance and a life full of joy and meaning.
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 help neurodivergent adults feel more confident, grounded, and capable.
I offer counseling, coaching, and assessments (for adults only). We'll explore what you do well and what energizes you, with the goal of including more of that in your life. You'll get practical tools to get things done, feel more confident, and connect with people in ways that feel right. Because progress comes from working with your brain, not against it.
I help neurodivergent adults feel more confident, grounded, and capable.
I offer counseling, coaching, and assessments (for adults only). We'll explore what you do well and what energizes you, with the goal of including more of that in your life. You'll get practical tools to get things done, feel more confident, and connect with people in ways that feel right. Because progress comes from working with your brain, not against it.
Helping individuals build resilience, manage overwhelming emotions, and create meaningful change, Jean-Claude Daly provides compassionate, evidence-based individual therapy at LifeStance Health for clients across Maine. He creates a supportive, nonjudgmental space where teens, adults, and seniors feel heard and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity. Jean-Claude specializes in anxiety, depression, and alcohol and drug use issues, with a strong focus on helping clients manage debilitating anxiety and depression in practical, sustainable ways.Helping individuals build resilience, manage overwhelmin
Helping individuals build resilience, manage overwhelming emotions, and create meaningful change, Jean-Claude Daly provides compassionate, evidence-based individual therapy at LifeStance Health for clients across Maine. He creates a supportive, nonjudgmental space where teens, adults, and seniors feel heard and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity. Jean-Claude specializes in anxiety, depression, and alcohol and drug use issues, with a strong focus on helping clients manage debilitating anxiety and depression in practical, sustainable ways.Helping individuals build resilience, manage overwhelmin
Finding the right therapist for yourself or your child can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to read this profile is an important first step and I commend you for it. I am a licensed psychologist with nearly a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in both school and clinical settings. My therapy practice centers on working with adolescents and adults who experience anxiety, depression, and executive functioning struggles. I also have experience supporting clients exploring gender identity issues, as well as the full range of clinical and non-clinical challenges people face in their daily lives.
Finding the right therapist for yourself or your child can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to read this profile is an important first step and I commend you for it. I am a licensed psychologist with nearly a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in both school and clinical settings. My therapy practice centers on working with adolescents and adults who experience anxiety, depression, and executive functioning struggles. I also have experience supporting clients exploring gender identity issues, as well as the full range of clinical and non-clinical challenges people face in their daily lives.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Portland
- Cape Elizabeth
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Gorham
- Old Orchard Beach
- Saco
- Scarborough
- South Portland
- Standish
- 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.