Autism Therapists in Michigan
This is my 27th year as a Therapist/Social Worker. I have vast experience working in the public school system, mental health, foster care, and adoption. I have experience working with children and families with special education disabilities, anger management, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. I am experienced working with individuals, families, couples, people with different abilities, mental and emotional challenges.
This is my 27th year as a Therapist/Social Worker. I have vast experience working in the public school system, mental health, foster care, and adoption. I have experience working with children and families with special education disabilities, anger management, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. I am experienced working with individuals, families, couples, people with different abilities, mental and emotional challenges.
Hi! my name is Jenna, I am a clinical social worker with a lifetime of combined personal & professional experience. I provide a unique, individualized & wide array of objective practice approaches focusing on choices that foster solutions to lead to a more meaningful life. I am a graduate of Michigan State University with over 18 years working in behavioral health & I engage a holistic, conversational approach to therapy. I provide grief & trauma therapy, ADHD & Autism support & among many other things a cognitive/ dialectical approach to manage depression & anxiety.
Hi! my name is Jenna, I am a clinical social worker with a lifetime of combined personal & professional experience. I provide a unique, individualized & wide array of objective practice approaches focusing on choices that foster solutions to lead to a more meaningful life. I am a graduate of Michigan State University with over 18 years working in behavioral health & I engage a holistic, conversational approach to therapy. I provide grief & trauma therapy, ADHD & Autism support & among many other things a cognitive/ dialectical approach to manage depression & anxiety.
My clinical focus is on working with clients who are late-diagnosed ADHD and/or Autism and those who suspect neurodivergent symptoms.
Being neurodivergent myself, I am passionate about supporting those with ADHD and Autism. I enjoy helping clients better understand the unique ways their brains work — not as better or worse, but simply different — and helping them find tools that fit their needs and daily lives.
My clinical focus is on working with clients who are late-diagnosed ADHD and/or Autism and those who suspect neurodivergent symptoms.
Being neurodivergent myself, I am passionate about supporting those with ADHD and Autism. I enjoy helping clients better understand the unique ways their brains work — not as better or worse, but simply different — and helping them find tools that fit their needs and daily lives.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, couples and families with adjustment issues related to neurodivergence (ADHD and ASD), Depression, Anxiety and communication issues.
My greatest passion and joy is to be a companion and guide for people while they discover meaning and joy in life beyond past trauma and sadness. I enjoy working with individuals and families that want to regain a sense of balance over their lives. I help with this by utilizing Mindfulness, Relational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral informed therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. Counseling and/or coaching is a wonderful tool that can help provide additional emotional support when we need it most. I am comfortable with both in-person and telehealth appointments in order to meet your individual needs.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, couples and families with adjustment issues related to neurodivergence (ADHD and ASD), Depression, Anxiety and communication issues.
My greatest passion and joy is to be a companion and guide for people while they discover meaning and joy in life beyond past trauma and sadness. I enjoy working with individuals and families that want to regain a sense of balance over their lives. I help with this by utilizing Mindfulness, Relational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral informed therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. Counseling and/or coaching is a wonderful tool that can help provide additional emotional support when we need it most. I am comfortable with both in-person and telehealth appointments in order to meet your individual needs.
Everyone deserves someone they can talk to—someone who listens without judgment, supports growth, and helps bring clarity during challenging times. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, seeking a fresh perspective, or simply need space to process, I’m here to walk alongside you.
Therapy is a personal journey, it should feel personal and empowering and I believe in meeting you where you are. That’s why I take an individualized, integrative approach—drawing from different modalities to match your needs and comfort level. We’ll work together to uncover what’s holding you back and create practical, meaningful steps forward
Everyone deserves someone they can talk to—someone who listens without judgment, supports growth, and helps bring clarity during challenging times. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, seeking a fresh perspective, or simply need space to process, I’m here to walk alongside you.
Therapy is a personal journey, it should feel personal and empowering and I believe in meeting you where you are. That’s why I take an individualized, integrative approach—drawing from different modalities to match your needs and comfort level. We’ll work together to uncover what’s holding you back and create practical, meaningful steps forward
Laurie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CNATC, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Offering Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments (private pay); Immigration Psychological Evaluations and specialize in Trauma(s), Narcissistic Abuse, ADHD/ Autism, Unwanted Habits and Peer Professionals.
Trauma Recovery/Neuro-affirming care is available! Initial changes typically noticed within 1-3 months. Feeling dysregulated? I partner with you to uncover your natural strengths, build an individualized toolbox and improve stability and safety at a pace that you are comfortable with. I use an eclectic approach, with individualized solutions from a harm reduction/post traumatic growth framework. Providers welcome.
Offering Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments (private pay); Immigration Psychological Evaluations and specialize in Trauma(s), Narcissistic Abuse, ADHD/ Autism, Unwanted Habits and Peer Professionals.
Trauma Recovery/Neuro-affirming care is available! Initial changes typically noticed within 1-3 months. Feeling dysregulated? I partner with you to uncover your natural strengths, build an individualized toolbox and improve stability and safety at a pace that you are comfortable with. I use an eclectic approach, with individualized solutions from a harm reduction/post traumatic growth framework. Providers welcome.
Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD?
With a tailored approach to therapy, I provide guidance and strategies to navigate life's complexities with confidence and resilience. Let's embark on this journey together using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focus, and Queer Affirmative Therapy.
Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD?
With a tailored approach to therapy, I provide guidance and strategies to navigate life's complexities with confidence and resilience. Let's embark on this journey together using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focus, and Queer Affirmative Therapy.
With a BA in Psychology from Converse College and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Spring Arbor University, I’ve spent over four years supporting children on the autism spectrum and working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
I work with kids to young adults, helping navigate depression, anxiety, and stress in a supportive, engaging way. If you enjoy talking through challenges or prefer a more interactive approach, I integrate conversation and games to make sessions feel natural and comfortable. I aim to create a safe space where you feel heard and empowered.
With a BA in Psychology from Converse College and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Spring Arbor University, I’ve spent over four years supporting children on the autism spectrum and working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
I work with kids to young adults, helping navigate depression, anxiety, and stress in a supportive, engaging way. If you enjoy talking through challenges or prefer a more interactive approach, I integrate conversation and games to make sessions feel natural and comfortable. I aim to create a safe space where you feel heard and empowered.
From setting boundaries, to communicating feelings, to coping with difficult situations, everyone can benefit from a supportive and growth-centered environment. I aim to provide that safe space for all of my clients. I have extensive experience working with a variety of ages, both individually and in family-centered treatment.
I approach therapy in a collaborative way and focus on helping my clients understand themselves, their experiences, and their goals. I want to meet you where you are at and help empower you to grow where you want to grow.
From setting boundaries, to communicating feelings, to coping with difficult situations, everyone can benefit from a supportive and growth-centered environment. I aim to provide that safe space for all of my clients. I have extensive experience working with a variety of ages, both individually and in family-centered treatment.
I approach therapy in a collaborative way and focus on helping my clients understand themselves, their experiences, and their goals. I want to meet you where you are at and help empower you to grow where you want to grow.
I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations to address questions about ADHD, autism, learning disorders, anxiety, and other concerns, offering clear diagnoses and treatment recommendations.
I earned my undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and completed my PhD from Indiana University. I completed an APA-accredited internship with Cypress-Fairbanks Independent Schools. I am currently board certified in child and adolescent psychology (ABPP). I have since become a dedicated mentor, providing supervision and training.
I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations to address questions about ADHD, autism, learning disorders, anxiety, and other concerns, offering clear diagnoses and treatment recommendations.
I earned my undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and completed my PhD from Indiana University. I completed an APA-accredited internship with Cypress-Fairbanks Independent Schools. I am currently board certified in child and adolescent psychology (ABPP). I have since become a dedicated mentor, providing supervision and training.
Genera Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Waitlist for new clients
Very often, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Disabled, and Neurodivergent people are denied seats at tables, and blocked from rooms that would make life more accessible.
As a clinician, I am firmly antiracist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly-affirming, and judgment-free. I have a particular interest in trauma-informed care, substance-use recovery, ADHD/AuDHD management, building boundaries, learning self-esteem/self-trust, and working with queer and BIPOC individuals and families who have been marginalized based on their identity.
Very often, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Disabled, and Neurodivergent people are denied seats at tables, and blocked from rooms that would make life more accessible.
As a clinician, I am firmly antiracist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly-affirming, and judgment-free. I have a particular interest in trauma-informed care, substance-use recovery, ADHD/AuDHD management, building boundaries, learning self-esteem/self-trust, and working with queer and BIPOC individuals and families who have been marginalized based on their identity.
I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, autism, high-needs parenting, and co-occurring mental health conditions.
If you’re feeling worn down by relationships or the challenges of navigating complex systems, you’re not alone. I help individuals, couples, and families find calm, rebuild trust, and create meaningful, supportive connections.
I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, autism, high-needs parenting, and co-occurring mental health conditions.
If you’re feeling worn down by relationships or the challenges of navigating complex systems, you’re not alone. I help individuals, couples, and families find calm, rebuild trust, and create meaningful, supportive connections.
You may be navigating life as a neurodivergent person, feeling misunderstood or struggling with executive functioning, sensory challenges, or social dynamics.
My approach is rooted in specialized expertise. I hold a Body Trust certification, which underscores my commitment to liberating body and mind and dismantling systemic oppression. My practice extends to individuals navigating the complexities of ADHD, autism, LGBTQ+ issues, and polyamorous relationships.
You may be navigating life as a neurodivergent person, feeling misunderstood or struggling with executive functioning, sensory challenges, or social dynamics.
My approach is rooted in specialized expertise. I hold a Body Trust certification, which underscores my commitment to liberating body and mind and dismantling systemic oppression. My practice extends to individuals navigating the complexities of ADHD, autism, LGBTQ+ issues, and polyamorous relationships.
Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma.
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an experiential form of therapy, where the client can learn by putting their thoughts and feelings into action. Horses are sensitive prey animals, and very perceptive. They can give us feedback about ourselves, as well as teach us about trust, connection, emotion regulation, social skills, and more!
Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma.
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an experiential form of therapy, where the client can learn by putting their thoughts and feelings into action. Horses are sensitive prey animals, and very perceptive. They can give us feedback about ourselves, as well as teach us about trust, connection, emotion regulation, social skills, and more!
Widely versed in interventions for children with ADHD, ASD, mood regulation issues and interfacing with school staff around educational issues.
I incorporate mindfulness practices into my therapeutic approaches to improve self-awareness and management of thoughts and emotions.
Widely versed in interventions for children with ADHD, ASD, mood regulation issues and interfacing with school staff around educational issues.
I incorporate mindfulness practices into my therapeutic approaches to improve self-awareness and management of thoughts and emotions.
I have extensive experience counseling those struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, and other mental health concerns by providing caring support while teaching effective coping skills.
In our fast-paced and complex world, life can sometimes feel overwhelming. In addition to managing the day-to-day, our internal experience can feel more chaotic than the world around us. There may be days when you can’t get out of your head. Other times you may feel the full spectrum of emotion in a single day, hour, or even minute. This makes it easy feel lost and lose sight of what truly matters. Fortunately, there are ways to take a break from the whirlwind, orient yourself, and move towards aspects of life you truly value.
I have extensive experience counseling those struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, and other mental health concerns by providing caring support while teaching effective coping skills.
In our fast-paced and complex world, life can sometimes feel overwhelming. In addition to managing the day-to-day, our internal experience can feel more chaotic than the world around us. There may be days when you can’t get out of your head. Other times you may feel the full spectrum of emotion in a single day, hour, or even minute. This makes it easy feel lost and lose sight of what truly matters. Fortunately, there are ways to take a break from the whirlwind, orient yourself, and move towards aspects of life you truly value.
Life changes happen to everyone, but they can sometimes leave us feeling lost, confused or unsure what to do next. Whether you’re dealing with an empty next, mourning the loss of a loved one, experiencing depression and/or anxiety or facing health issues that are making it hard to enjoy life, you’re not alone. If parenting, pregnancy or fertility struggles are part of what’s weighing you down it’s normal to feel vulnerable or unsure. Feeling sad, anxious or isolated doesn’t mean you’re weak – it shows how much you care about the things that matter most to you.
Life changes happen to everyone, but they can sometimes leave us feeling lost, confused or unsure what to do next. Whether you’re dealing with an empty next, mourning the loss of a loved one, experiencing depression and/or anxiety or facing health issues that are making it hard to enjoy life, you’re not alone. If parenting, pregnancy or fertility struggles are part of what’s weighing you down it’s normal to feel vulnerable or unsure. Feeling sad, anxious or isolated doesn’t mean you’re weak – it shows how much you care about the things that matter most to you.
I also work with individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum.
My favorite aspect of working with children, families, and adolescents involves getting to know and develop relationships with every individual. Helping an individuals and their families navigate difficult situations and celebrate positive growth in therapy and everyday situations is such a unique and positive aspect of being a part of a family’s therapeutic team. I utilize therapeutic techniques from play therapy, art therapy, talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and more. Currently accepting clients with early afternoon and daytime availability.
I also work with individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum.
My favorite aspect of working with children, families, and adolescents involves getting to know and develop relationships with every individual. Helping an individuals and their families navigate difficult situations and celebrate positive growth in therapy and everyday situations is such a unique and positive aspect of being a part of a family’s therapeutic team. I utilize therapeutic techniques from play therapy, art therapy, talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and more. Currently accepting clients with early afternoon and daytime availability.
Most of my experience has been in working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults.
It is an honor to walk alongside my clients as they learn about themselves and make positive changes in their lives. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you explore and overcome your challenges. I am particularly interested in helping my clients unmask and live as their authentic selves. To do this, I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach while teaching tangible skills for coping and communication. Unmasking and healing often begins in emotionally and physically safe spaces, and I would be thrilled to provide this space for you.
Most of my experience has been in working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults.
It is an honor to walk alongside my clients as they learn about themselves and make positive changes in their lives. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you explore and overcome your challenges. I am particularly interested in helping my clients unmask and live as their authentic selves. To do this, I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach while teaching tangible skills for coping and communication. Unmasking and healing often begins in emotionally and physically safe spaces, and I would be thrilled to provide this space for you.
Thank you for your interest in my services. I am a fully licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have significant experience in working with a wide variety of clients, treatment issues, and treatment styles. As a result I am able to tailor my therapeutic style to fit the specific needs of each individual or family. I am an active participant in the treatment process and view the therapeutic relationship as a 'team', where we work together to find solutions that are right for you.
Thank you for your interest in my services. I am a fully licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have significant experience in working with a wide variety of clients, treatment issues, and treatment styles. As a result I am able to tailor my therapeutic style to fit the specific needs of each individual or family. I am an active participant in the treatment process and view the therapeutic relationship as a 'team', where we work together to find solutions that are right for you.
See more therapy options for Michigan
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.