Autism Therapists in Minneapolis, MN
Are you feeling lost or like you’re not where you should be? Are you struggling with feeling like a failure or comparing yourself to others? Are you feeling disconnected from your partner or your friends and family? Any of these feelings can bring up deep fear and pain that can be difficult, or nearly impossible to shake. You might even be worried that the spark inside you has gone out. It hasn't. It's just covered up with layers of guck and muck that may have accumulated over many years. What you need is help digging down and uncovering your spark so you can live joyfully as your most authentic self.
Are you feeling lost or like you’re not where you should be? Are you struggling with feeling like a failure or comparing yourself to others? Are you feeling disconnected from your partner or your friends and family? Any of these feelings can bring up deep fear and pain that can be difficult, or nearly impossible to shake. You might even be worried that the spark inside you has gone out. It hasn't. It's just covered up with layers of guck and muck that may have accumulated over many years. What you need is help digging down and uncovering your spark so you can live joyfully as your most authentic self.
For many of us, our identities and experiences are connected to differences in the way we think, feel, and process the world; differences that may relate to neurodivergence, environment, cultural identity, or trauma.
For many of us, our identities and experiences are connected to differences in the way we think, feel, and process the world; differences that may relate to neurodivergence, environment, cultural identity, or trauma.
From an outsider’s perspective, you’ve got a great life. You’re accomplished & admired, dependable & driven. But on the inside, you never feel quite good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you’re falling short. You've spent the last however-many-years trying to keep it together, but it's exhausting and you don't think you can do it for much longer. You’re tired of giving so much to everyone else while you continue to come last on your list. But not anymore. It's time for a change.
From an outsider’s perspective, you’ve got a great life. You’re accomplished & admired, dependable & driven. But on the inside, you never feel quite good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you’re falling short. You've spent the last however-many-years trying to keep it together, but it's exhausting and you don't think you can do it for much longer. You’re tired of giving so much to everyone else while you continue to come last on your list. But not anymore. It's time for a change.
You may be wondering if ADHD or autism could explain challenges you have experienced for years, or you may be a parent trying to better understand your child’s needs.
I specialize in comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, with a focus on ADHD and autism. My approach is evidence-based and individualized, using validated assessment tools to provide accurate diagnoses and meaningful recommendations.
You may be wondering if ADHD or autism could explain challenges you have experienced for years, or you may be a parent trying to better understand your child’s needs.
I specialize in comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, with a focus on ADHD and autism. My approach is evidence-based and individualized, using validated assessment tools to provide accurate diagnoses and meaningful recommendations.
You don't have to have it all figured out to start.
Whether you're a parent worried about your child, a teen feeling overwhelmed, or a family navigating hard seasons. You're in the right place!
I work with children, teens, adults, and families who are curious and ready to explore, even if they're nervous. My style is warm, casual, and completely client-led. You set the pace.
Using DBT and CBT tools, we'll work on emotions, coping, and confidence — but more than anything, I want you to leave every session feeling heard, safe, and supported
You don't have to have it all figured out to start.
Whether you're a parent worried about your child, a teen feeling overwhelmed, or a family navigating hard seasons. You're in the right place!
I work with children, teens, adults, and families who are curious and ready to explore, even if they're nervous. My style is warm, casual, and completely client-led. You set the pace.
Using DBT and CBT tools, we'll work on emotions, coping, and confidence — but more than anything, I want you to leave every session feeling heard, safe, and supported
After nearly a decade in the ABA world, I've seen firsthand how traditional therapy can miss the mark for neurodivergent people.
Neuro-Affirming Individual Psychotherapy: I'm here for teens and adults who are exhausted by the "mask". We will work through the anxiety and burnout that builds up from trying to fit into a world that makes asking for accommodations feel like asking for the moon (and the stars too). Let's work together and uncover how to support the authentic you.
After nearly a decade in the ABA world, I've seen firsthand how traditional therapy can miss the mark for neurodivergent people.
Neuro-Affirming Individual Psychotherapy: I'm here for teens and adults who are exhausted by the "mask". We will work through the anxiety and burnout that builds up from trying to fit into a world that makes asking for accommodations feel like asking for the moon (and the stars too). Let's work together and uncover how to support the authentic you.
I offer official Autism and ADHD evaluations with diagnosis and a detailed write up.
I help folks heal by supporting them as they begin their restorative journey. Through active listening, a deep understanding from lived experience, and evidence based techniques, I help you find your truth and motivations and then support you to access a healing journey.
I strive to create a welcoming space for all those that decide to start their healing.
I offer official Autism and ADHD evaluations with diagnosis and a detailed write up.
I help folks heal by supporting them as they begin their restorative journey. Through active listening, a deep understanding from lived experience, and evidence based techniques, I help you find your truth and motivations and then support you to access a healing journey.
I strive to create a welcoming space for all those that decide to start their healing.
I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum as well as young adults.
I have years of experience working with people experiencing crisis, suicidal ideation and recovery from trauma. I have had the opportunity to work with adoptive, and foster families navigating through transitions. The families I have been honored to work with have had a variety of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic levels.
I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum as well as young adults.
I have years of experience working with people experiencing crisis, suicidal ideation and recovery from trauma. I have had the opportunity to work with adoptive, and foster families navigating through transitions. The families I have been honored to work with have had a variety of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic levels.
Katherine Collins
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR-BC
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I am queer and neurodivergent, and I embrace self-diagnosis within systems that are inaccessible to many.
I work with pre-teens/teens (10+), young adults, and adults.
I believe wholeheartedly in the power of therapeutic support and individual healing through self-compassion, empathy, growth, understanding, and creativity.
I encourage creative messes and strive to be authentic through every part of the therapy process. I am well versed in fandom culture and recognize the power of personal and media narratives.
I am queer and neurodivergent, and I embrace self-diagnosis within systems that are inaccessible to many.
I work with pre-teens/teens (10+), young adults, and adults.
I believe wholeheartedly in the power of therapeutic support and individual healing through self-compassion, empathy, growth, understanding, and creativity.
I encourage creative messes and strive to be authentic through every part of the therapy process. I am well versed in fandom culture and recognize the power of personal and media narratives.
With 15 years of experience working with hundreds of autistic and neurodivergent adults across various settings, Greg has a strong interest in working with individuals on the autism spectrum as well as other neurodivergent individuals.
Greg approaches therapy with an individualized and collaborative mindset, drawing from multiple psychological perspectives such as psychodynamic, personality, existential, and narrative psychology, among others. He values creativity, humor, and humility in the therapeutic process, and his fine arts background informs his belief that creativity and the arts can help make the unconscious conscious. He believes therapy is a powerful tool for increasing self-understanding, developing and maintaining accurate personal narratives, and building autonomy to enhance mental well-being and life satisfaction.
With 15 years of experience working with hundreds of autistic and neurodivergent adults across various settings, Greg has a strong interest in working with individuals on the autism spectrum as well as other neurodivergent individuals.
Greg approaches therapy with an individualized and collaborative mindset, drawing from multiple psychological perspectives such as psychodynamic, personality, existential, and narrative psychology, among others. He values creativity, humor, and humility in the therapeutic process, and his fine arts background informs his belief that creativity and the arts can help make the unconscious conscious. He believes therapy is a powerful tool for increasing self-understanding, developing and maintaining accurate personal narratives, and building autonomy to enhance mental well-being and life satisfaction.
I have lived experience as a queer, neurodivergent woman in recovery.
I am passionate in working with adults who identify as neurodivergent, the LGBTQIA+ community, C-PTSD, PTSD and trauma, adoptees, addiction and recovery, health care and mental health professionals, and creative people. I'm currently taking new clients for in-person sessions utilizing art therapy, EMDR, and/or Brainspotting.
I have lived experience as a queer, neurodivergent woman in recovery.
I am passionate in working with adults who identify as neurodivergent, the LGBTQIA+ community, C-PTSD, PTSD and trauma, adoptees, addiction and recovery, health care and mental health professionals, and creative people. I'm currently taking new clients for in-person sessions utilizing art therapy, EMDR, and/or Brainspotting.
We help youth as well as clients up to age 21, diagnosed with ASD ( Autism Spectrum Disorder) and related conditions.
We offer child intervention and support programs that aim to develop their potential in the midst of behavioral disorders and expand their horizons for better living.
We help youth as well as clients up to age 21, diagnosed with ASD ( Autism Spectrum Disorder) and related conditions.
We offer child intervention and support programs that aim to develop their potential in the midst of behavioral disorders and expand their horizons for better living.
When working with neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and young adult clients, I don't shy away from those who struggle with traditional power dynamics.
I would describe my art therapy style as nondirective, person-centered, & informed by existential and psychodynamic theories. I emphasize the importance of building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship over time. The studio space, therapeutic relationship, and artwork provide the freedom within structure to explore the possibility of change.
When working with neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and young adult clients, I don't shy away from those who struggle with traditional power dynamics.
I would describe my art therapy style as nondirective, person-centered, & informed by existential and psychodynamic theories. I emphasize the importance of building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship over time. The studio space, therapeutic relationship, and artwork provide the freedom within structure to explore the possibility of change.
Navigating the world is challenging especially if you are neurodivergent, are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, have experienced trauma, are struggling to manage your mental health, or speak Spanish.
I’m here to support you in learning ways to accept who you are and support you in navigating life’s challenges. Through using different modalities such as ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), PRT (Pain Reprocessing Therapy), and Mindfulness based techniques, we can reduce the symptoms that have been impacting your life.
Navigating the world is challenging especially if you are neurodivergent, are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, have experienced trauma, are struggling to manage your mental health, or speak Spanish.
I’m here to support you in learning ways to accept who you are and support you in navigating life’s challenges. Through using different modalities such as ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), PRT (Pain Reprocessing Therapy), and Mindfulness based techniques, we can reduce the symptoms that have been impacting your life.
I am a queer, AuDHD, cis-female therapist that works with adult 18+ for individual with trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, attachment issues, LGBTQIA+ concerns, late diagnosed Autism Level 1, and ADHD.
My practice is now accepting new clients!
Through early connections we learn about ourselves, others and our world. Sometimes, safe connections and acceptance have been missing in our lives due to neurodivergence, social rejection, abuse or neglect. We may walk through life feeling like outsiders struggling to understand the world and ourselves. I work to provide a safe place to unmask and develop self compassion, self acceptance and healing. I offer collaborative, nonjudgmental support to explore your strengths and manage life's challenges. My style is compassionate yet direct, and utilizes multiple evidence-based therapy models.
I am a queer, AuDHD, cis-female therapist that works with adult 18+ for individual with trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, attachment issues, LGBTQIA+ concerns, late diagnosed Autism Level 1, and ADHD.
My practice is now accepting new clients!
Through early connections we learn about ourselves, others and our world. Sometimes, safe connections and acceptance have been missing in our lives due to neurodivergence, social rejection, abuse or neglect. We may walk through life feeling like outsiders struggling to understand the world and ourselves. I work to provide a safe place to unmask and develop self compassion, self acceptance and healing. I offer collaborative, nonjudgmental support to explore your strengths and manage life's challenges. My style is compassionate yet direct, and utilizes multiple evidence-based therapy models.
Making change and asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m Jenna (She/Her), and my work focuses on building connection and holding a safe space for clients to feel the full range of their experiences. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable, we can change old patterns that don’t serve us anymore, communicate our needs, and cultivate social justice and joy. I am here to celebrate and support your unique passions, and to learn from you what matters most in your life. I work with clients to build resilience and self-esteem, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and achieve greater self-awareness.
Making change and asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m Jenna (She/Her), and my work focuses on building connection and holding a safe space for clients to feel the full range of their experiences. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable, we can change old patterns that don’t serve us anymore, communicate our needs, and cultivate social justice and joy. I am here to celebrate and support your unique passions, and to learn from you what matters most in your life. I work with clients to build resilience and self-esteem, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and achieve greater self-awareness.
I am a queer, neurodivergent associate marriage and family therapist.
I have been working as a sexuality education teacher for over 6 years, teaching all ages from middle school students to older adults. My specialty is supporting people with autism, ADHD, and Down Syndrome. I am passionate about connecting with people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship styles, and abilities.
I am a queer, neurodivergent associate marriage and family therapist.
I have been working as a sexuality education teacher for over 6 years, teaching all ages from middle school students to older adults. My specialty is supporting people with autism, ADHD, and Down Syndrome. I am passionate about connecting with people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship styles, and abilities.
My passion lies in supporting teachers, parents, and highly sensitive or neurodivergent individuals—including those who are twice exceptional (2e) or have experienced early emotional or behavioral challenges.
Grounded in attachment theory, person-centered care, and a strengths-based approach, I believe healing happens when we create space for all parts of the self to be seen and heard. Influenced by Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory, and with years of supporting children and families, I offer a unique insight into how early experiences shape us.
My passion lies in supporting teachers, parents, and highly sensitive or neurodivergent individuals—including those who are twice exceptional (2e) or have experienced early emotional or behavioral challenges.
Grounded in attachment theory, person-centered care, and a strengths-based approach, I believe healing happens when we create space for all parts of the self to be seen and heard. Influenced by Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory, and with years of supporting children and families, I offer a unique insight into how early experiences shape us.
I believe that I have an ethical imperative to take an affirming approach to my work with Autism and ADHD and avoid any therapeutic method that seeks to mask neurodivergence.
Are you often tired, anxious and feeling unfulfilled in spite of giving your all? Do you spend most of your time caring for others all the while longing to feel seen and heard yourself? I am here to partner with you to build a life where you can nourish yourself and others. Whether you are caregiving at home, or working in fields like education, healthcare, or mental health, it is vital to have a space dedicated to tending to yourself.
I believe that I have an ethical imperative to take an affirming approach to my work with Autism and ADHD and avoid any therapeutic method that seeks to mask neurodivergence.
Are you often tired, anxious and feeling unfulfilled in spite of giving your all? Do you spend most of your time caring for others all the while longing to feel seen and heard yourself? I am here to partner with you to build a life where you can nourish yourself and others. Whether you are caregiving at home, or working in fields like education, healthcare, or mental health, it is vital to have a space dedicated to tending to yourself.
Accepting new telehealth clients. If you’re struggling with self-esteem, trauma, depression, anger, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, family conflict, or relationship challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. With both professional training and personal insight into mental health, I understand how deeply our thoughts and emotions shape our lives. Together, we’ll explore your needs, goals, and strengths in a supportive space.
Accepting new telehealth clients. If you’re struggling with self-esteem, trauma, depression, anger, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, family conflict, or relationship challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. With both professional training and personal insight into mental health, I understand how deeply our thoughts and emotions shape our lives. Together, we’ll explore your needs, goals, and strengths in a supportive space.
See more therapy options for Minneapolis
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Minneapolis
- Brooklyn Center
- Columbia Heights
- Edina
- Fridley
- Golden Valley
- Hopkins
- Minnetonka
- New Hope
- Plymouth
- Richfield
- Saint Anthony
- Saint Louis Park
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.