Autism Therapists in Missouri
Nadin Rizk specializes in conducting psychological evaluations with adults, adolescents, children, and toddlers who are exhibiting signs of Autism using the gold standard for diagnosing Autism, the ADOS-2.
Dr. Rizk is also accepting new adult clients for individual therapy. Depth and understanding are essential in therapy so, it's important that patterns that have hindered your life are identified and addressed. Dr. Rizk aims to provide a compassionate and safe space to help you gain insight into your life and move you towards a life that is meaningful to you.
Nadin Rizk specializes in conducting psychological evaluations with adults, adolescents, children, and toddlers who are exhibiting signs of Autism using the gold standard for diagnosing Autism, the ADOS-2.
Dr. Rizk is also accepting new adult clients for individual therapy. Depth and understanding are essential in therapy so, it's important that patterns that have hindered your life are identified and addressed. Dr. Rizk aims to provide a compassionate and safe space to help you gain insight into your life and move you towards a life that is meaningful to you.
I specialize in supporting clients in self-exploration, identity development, building self-compassion, and embracing neurodivergence ( Autism, ADHD, AuDH).
I bring compassionate curiosity & humor to the counseling space, and I amplify strengths while gently exploring current coping methods to identify what may no longer be serving you. My approach is built on your right to self-determination, is trauma-aware, informed by queer theory, incorporates parts work, & is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
I specialize in supporting clients in self-exploration, identity development, building self-compassion, and embracing neurodivergence ( Autism, ADHD, AuDH).
I bring compassionate curiosity & humor to the counseling space, and I amplify strengths while gently exploring current coping methods to identify what may no longer be serving you. My approach is built on your right to self-determination, is trauma-aware, informed by queer theory, incorporates parts work, & is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Are you LGBTQ, chronically ill, or neurodivergent and seeking a therapist who can understand the nuance of those identities?
I'm here for you, whether you're an adult or teen, new to therapy or experienced. Therapy should be a safe haven, an empathetic space where you can freely explore the things that hold you back. I strive to create an environment of authentic warmth, humor, and compassion, inviting you to courageously delve into all aspects of yourself in a safe space.
Are you LGBTQ, chronically ill, or neurodivergent and seeking a therapist who can understand the nuance of those identities?
I'm here for you, whether you're an adult or teen, new to therapy or experienced. Therapy should be a safe haven, an empathetic space where you can freely explore the things that hold you back. I strive to create an environment of authentic warmth, humor, and compassion, inviting you to courageously delve into all aspects of yourself in a safe space.
Experienced with trauma, substance use, interpersonal violence, Autism, anxiety/depression, relationships, and social skills, I partner with you to navigate challenges, strengthen resilience, and create lasting change.
Hello! I work with clients of all ages, from children to older adults, seeking positive change. Whether you’re navigating past trauma, family or peer relationships, anxiety or depression, grief, or substance use/addiction, I provide a safe space to explore emotions, build coping skills, and uncover strengths at your own pace. Using approaches like CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and Family Systems Theory, I collaborate with you to set goals and support growth, healing, and lasting change across the lifespan.
Experienced with trauma, substance use, interpersonal violence, Autism, anxiety/depression, relationships, and social skills, I partner with you to navigate challenges, strengthen resilience, and create lasting change.
Hello! I work with clients of all ages, from children to older adults, seeking positive change. Whether you’re navigating past trauma, family or peer relationships, anxiety or depression, grief, or substance use/addiction, I provide a safe space to explore emotions, build coping skills, and uncover strengths at your own pace. Using approaches like CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and Family Systems Theory, I collaborate with you to set goals and support growth, healing, and lasting change across the lifespan.
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, EFT, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, SSP, LENS, ADHD, Sand-Tray, and Autism.
Healing happens through connection, whether that's with yourself, your partner, your family, or someone who is there to listen and support you. I work with individuals, couples, and families to create meaningful change by examining patterns, enhancing communication, and deepening understanding of what is truly happening beneath the surface. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life changes, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck, therapy can be a powerful space to sort things out. I work with adolescents and adults.
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, EFT, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, SSP, LENS, ADHD, Sand-Tray, and Autism.
Healing happens through connection, whether that's with yourself, your partner, your family, or someone who is there to listen and support you. I work with individuals, couples, and families to create meaningful change by examining patterns, enhancing communication, and deepening understanding of what is truly happening beneath the surface. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life changes, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck, therapy can be a powerful space to sort things out. I work with adolescents and adults.
Healthy relationships don't happen by accident—they're built through trust, understanding, and intentional connection. I help couples navigate communication challenges, rebuild trust after betrayal, strengthen emotional intimacy, overcome hurdles related to sex, and develop healthier patterns of relating. Using evidence-based approaches grounded in attachment and relationship science, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where partners can better understand one another, resolve conflict, and create a stronger, more secure relationship together.
Healthy relationships don't happen by accident—they're built through trust, understanding, and intentional connection. I help couples navigate communication challenges, rebuild trust after betrayal, strengthen emotional intimacy, overcome hurdles related to sex, and develop healthier patterns of relating. Using evidence-based approaches grounded in attachment and relationship science, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where partners can better understand one another, resolve conflict, and create a stronger, more secure relationship together.
AutPlay is a family play therapy approach for working with Neurodivergent children.
Hello! I'm McCoy and an AutPlay Certified Therapist. I work with Neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, etc.) and their families. When I work with Neurodivergent kids, my job is not to change their brain but to work with them to help kids become their best selves. I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including big emotional outbursts, social isolation, troubles at school, self injurious behavior, and parent overwhelm. My demeanor is calm and validating. I aim to make a space for everybody and every kind of human struggle. You and your child are welcome here.
AutPlay is a family play therapy approach for working with Neurodivergent children.
Hello! I'm McCoy and an AutPlay Certified Therapist. I work with Neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, etc.) and their families. When I work with Neurodivergent kids, my job is not to change their brain but to work with them to help kids become their best selves. I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including big emotional outbursts, social isolation, troubles at school, self injurious behavior, and parent overwhelm. My demeanor is calm and validating. I aim to make a space for everybody and every kind of human struggle. You and your child are welcome here.
Hi, I’m Haley Bichsel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over five years of experience in case management, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and therapy. I am passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and understanding.
I believe in meeting clients exactly where they are and walking alongside them as they navigate their journey toward healing. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, focusing on helping you build insight, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Hi, I’m Haley Bichsel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over five years of experience in case management, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and therapy. I am passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and understanding.
I believe in meeting clients exactly where they are and walking alongside them as they navigate their journey toward healing. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, focusing on helping you build insight, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
I believe that each person has a unique story. Our families, communities, and systems shape us, just as we influence those around us. With this understanding, I value a relational, client-centered approach to therapy. My goal is to partner with clients to alleviate suffering and foster self-examination, meaning making, and change. I seek to help clients unlock more fulfilling lives by establishing an understanding of both present context and past relationships.
I believe that each person has a unique story. Our families, communities, and systems shape us, just as we influence those around us. With this understanding, I value a relational, client-centered approach to therapy. My goal is to partner with clients to alleviate suffering and foster self-examination, meaning making, and change. I seek to help clients unlock more fulfilling lives by establishing an understanding of both present context and past relationships.
I focus on supporting those with Autism, ADHD, sensory differences, challenges with executive functioning , masking, identity development, relationships, and life transitions.
My work is focused on meeting you where you're at. I strive to support people better understand themselves, build on their strengths, develop tools that fit their unique needs, and create a life that feels authentic and sustainable. I offer a space where each person can be themself, while working on the goals that will improve their lives!
I focus on supporting those with Autism, ADHD, sensory differences, challenges with executive functioning , masking, identity development, relationships, and life transitions.
My work is focused on meeting you where you're at. I strive to support people better understand themselves, build on their strengths, develop tools that fit their unique needs, and create a life that feels authentic and sustainable. I offer a space where each person can be themself, while working on the goals that will improve their lives!
Some of my specializations include addressing the needs of neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults ( autism, ADHD, trauma issues, and anxiety and depression struggles).
I hold a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership, Master's in Counseling and Bachelor's in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Board Certified Telehealth Professional and Life Coach, trainer, author, and instructor.
Some of my specializations include addressing the needs of neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults ( autism, ADHD, trauma issues, and anxiety and depression struggles).
I hold a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership, Master's in Counseling and Bachelor's in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Board Certified Telehealth Professional and Life Coach, trainer, author, and instructor.
I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence and autism, disability, trauma and acute crisis, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children.
I am able to accept Missouri Medicaid as payment for therapy sessions, including MoHealthNet, United, Healthy Blue, and Home State Health. I have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including EMDR, polyvagal theory, and MNRI. I am trained in more traditional therapy methods such as TF-CBT and DBT as well.
I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence and autism, disability, trauma and acute crisis, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children.
I am able to accept Missouri Medicaid as payment for therapy sessions, including MoHealthNet, United, Healthy Blue, and Home State Health. I have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including EMDR, polyvagal theory, and MNRI. I am trained in more traditional therapy methods such as TF-CBT and DBT as well.
Life is full of difficult challenges. My goal as a therapist is to support my clients where they are in life and help them navigate these challenges. Seeking support is a sign of real strength and reinforces the value of the human connection. I believe in the ability people hold inside themselves and aim to provide validation of my clients' experiences and feelings, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.
Life is full of difficult challenges. My goal as a therapist is to support my clients where they are in life and help them navigate these challenges. Seeking support is a sign of real strength and reinforces the value of the human connection. I believe in the ability people hold inside themselves and aim to provide validation of my clients' experiences and feelings, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.
As a queer mental health professional, I offer affirming, specialized support for autistic and ADHD adults, trauma survivors, and those navigating OCD, dissociation, personality patterns, anxiety, and depression.
My approach focuses on helping you understand how your nervous system, past experiences, and coping strategies developed — and how we can build new patterns that feel safer and more sustainable. I integrate EMDR, somatic strategies, DBT, CBT, and mindfulness to help you process trauma, regulate overwhelm, and strengthen skills for daily life.
As a queer mental health professional, I offer affirming, specialized support for autistic and ADHD adults, trauma survivors, and those navigating OCD, dissociation, personality patterns, anxiety, and depression.
My approach focuses on helping you understand how your nervous system, past experiences, and coping strategies developed — and how we can build new patterns that feel safer and more sustainable. I integrate EMDR, somatic strategies, DBT, CBT, and mindfulness to help you process trauma, regulate overwhelm, and strengthen skills for daily life.
Latitude Therapy is dedicated to providing high quality in-home ABA therapy to children and young adults (0-21) with ASD.
Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) conduct thorough functional behavior assessments which help them create an individualized treatment plan. Your team of a BCBA and direct behavior technician will then work with you and your child towards skill acquisition, behavior reduction, and of course family training.
Latitude Therapy is dedicated to providing high quality in-home ABA therapy to children and young adults (0-21) with ASD.
Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) conduct thorough functional behavior assessments which help them create an individualized treatment plan. Your team of a BCBA and direct behavior technician will then work with you and your child towards skill acquisition, behavior reduction, and of course family training.
You are mighty as hell – you don’t feel it right now, but it’s in you. Life has thrown some heavy challenges your way, and this sense of overwhelm never seems to relent. Whether you are experiencing loss, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety or a combination of it all – I’m here for it. You deserve to feel whole and mentally well. Through a warm and supportive relationship, I will help you explore your experiences and complex emotions - and get you to a place of confidence where you are free to authentically pursue connection and fulfillment.
You are mighty as hell – you don’t feel it right now, but it’s in you. Life has thrown some heavy challenges your way, and this sense of overwhelm never seems to relent. Whether you are experiencing loss, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety or a combination of it all – I’m here for it. You deserve to feel whole and mentally well. Through a warm and supportive relationship, I will help you explore your experiences and complex emotions - and get you to a place of confidence where you are free to authentically pursue connection and fulfillment.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist and ADHD - Certified Clinical Service Provider.
The journey to wellness starts with the choice to hope that there is the possibility for tomorrow to be a better day. Our mission is to assist others in finding hope on their journey to wellness by providing practical solution focused options, including therapy, psychological assessment, life coaching, education, information, professional development trainings and more.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist and ADHD - Certified Clinical Service Provider.
The journey to wellness starts with the choice to hope that there is the possibility for tomorrow to be a better day. Our mission is to assist others in finding hope on their journey to wellness by providing practical solution focused options, including therapy, psychological assessment, life coaching, education, information, professional development trainings and more.
I have experience in child and adolescent development, family dynamics, & children with ADHD and Autism.
I value the therapeutic relationship; I place importance on meeting clients where they are at and approach the therapeutic process with the understanding that each individual is an expert in their own life. I use aspects from Strengths-Based, DBT, CBT, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, & Mindfulness, Play & Art Therapy, Somatic Healing techniques, & IFS.
I have experience in child and adolescent development, family dynamics, & children with ADHD and Autism.
I value the therapeutic relationship; I place importance on meeting clients where they are at and approach the therapeutic process with the understanding that each individual is an expert in their own life. I use aspects from Strengths-Based, DBT, CBT, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, & Mindfulness, Play & Art Therapy, Somatic Healing techniques, & IFS.
Emily specializes in comprehensive strengths-based psychological evaluations to determine diagnoses and treatment recommendations for a range of issues including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), and mood, anxiety, and other diagnoses.
Dr. Emily Crawford-Thompson, Ph.D. is a Licensed Psychologist with a doctorate in clinical psychology. She has provided comprehensive psychological evaluations and counseling for ages 16 and older since 2009. Dr. Emily uses evidence-based treatments for trauma-related issues such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her interventions include Cognitive Processing Therapy, a First-Line Evidence-Based Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, as recommended by the current American Psychological Association (APA)’s Clinical Practice Guidelines.
Emily specializes in comprehensive strengths-based psychological evaluations to determine diagnoses and treatment recommendations for a range of issues including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), and mood, anxiety, and other diagnoses.
Dr. Emily Crawford-Thompson, Ph.D. is a Licensed Psychologist with a doctorate in clinical psychology. She has provided comprehensive psychological evaluations and counseling for ages 16 and older since 2009. Dr. Emily uses evidence-based treatments for trauma-related issues such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her interventions include Cognitive Processing Therapy, a First-Line Evidence-Based Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, as recommended by the current American Psychological Association (APA)’s Clinical Practice Guidelines.
Feeling like you’re always falling behind often stems from being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
Life just seems to be harder for you than everyone else. You constantly wonder why it takes so much effort to do seemingly simple tasks - brush your teeth, wash dishes, finish laundry. By the end of the day you have nothing left. As much as you want friendships, they are hard and exhausting to keep up with. You try finding strategies that work but being consistent seems impossible. If you could just figure out how to make these things easier, life wouldn't be so stressful. The depression, anxiety, and constant guilt takes a toll on your mental health, but it doesn't seem to explain everything you are going through...
Feeling like you’re always falling behind often stems from being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
Life just seems to be harder for you than everyone else. You constantly wonder why it takes so much effort to do seemingly simple tasks - brush your teeth, wash dishes, finish laundry. By the end of the day you have nothing left. As much as you want friendships, they are hard and exhausting to keep up with. You try finding strategies that work but being consistent seems impossible. If you could just figure out how to make these things easier, life wouldn't be so stressful. The depression, anxiety, and constant guilt takes a toll on your mental health, but it doesn't seem to explain everything you are going through...
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Autism Therapists
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.