Autism Therapists in Adair County, MO
Along with general psychological testing, areas of focus include: Adult AUTISM, ADHD, PTSD and trauma-related testing.
Whether you are seeking a psychological evaluation or therapy, I offer a safe space for you to be yourself. As an individual, you carry your own story, experiences, and qualities. We don’t all fit into the cookie-cutter labels. I dedicate myself to hearing your story, seeing the full picture, and working to help you further discover your authentic self and strengths. It’s what you deserve!
Along with general psychological testing, areas of focus include: Adult AUTISM, ADHD, PTSD and trauma-related testing.
Whether you are seeking a psychological evaluation or therapy, I offer a safe space for you to be yourself. As an individual, you carry your own story, experiences, and qualities. We don’t all fit into the cookie-cutter labels. I dedicate myself to hearing your story, seeing the full picture, and working to help you further discover your authentic self and strengths. It’s what you deserve!
I work with individuals 16+ with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, and other diagnoses.
Photo credit: sarajaneherrmannphotography
Are you grieving because of a recent diagnosis for yourself or a loved one? Wondering what might have been if you had known sooner and wondering what this means for the future? Do you want to parent your children differently than you were yourself but struggle to know what to do when all you’ve experienced is what NOT to do? Even if you’re figuring it out, do you still worry you will fail? Do you want to become better at setting boundaries with friends, family, your employer, or others in your life? Stand up for yourself AND feel good about it? Even create an exit plan?
I work with individuals 16+ with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, and other diagnoses.
Photo credit: sarajaneherrmannphotography
Are you grieving because of a recent diagnosis for yourself or a loved one? Wondering what might have been if you had known sooner and wondering what this means for the future? Do you want to parent your children differently than you were yourself but struggle to know what to do when all you’ve experienced is what NOT to do? Even if you’re figuring it out, do you still worry you will fail? Do you want to become better at setting boundaries with friends, family, your employer, or others in your life? Stand up for yourself AND feel good about it? Even create an exit plan?
Alice Leckenby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Kirksville, MO 63501
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) with over 10 years’ experience working with families. As a Registered Play Therapist, I use non-directive play therapy to allow children to experience control and increase their ability to make their own healthy decisions.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) with over 10 years’ experience working with families. As a Registered Play Therapist, I use non-directive play therapy to allow children to experience control and increase their ability to make their own healthy decisions.
Online Therapists
I am interested in working with neurodiverse children and adolescents, parenting, parents’ mental health, women’s mental health, and specific mental health challenges such as anxiety, autism, learning differences, and ADHD.
My counseling philosophy is person-centered, particularly child-centered play therapy (CCPT) when working with children and young adolescents. I believe therapeutic growth comes from the relationship, unconditional acceptance, freedom, and self-actualization.
I am interested in working with neurodiverse children and adolescents, parenting, parents’ mental health, women’s mental health, and specific mental health challenges such as anxiety, autism, learning differences, and ADHD.
My counseling philosophy is person-centered, particularly child-centered play therapy (CCPT) when working with children and young adolescents. I believe therapeutic growth comes from the relationship, unconditional acceptance, freedom, and self-actualization.
I specialize in men's issues, autism, and couples concerns.
While earning my degree, I gained valuable experience in career counseling and substance use counseling. During the last ten years I have served clients with significant anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as issues dealing with psychosis. Trained in CBT, CPT, ACT, Mindfulness and PCIT (promoting the parent-child relationship).
I specialize in men's issues, autism, and couples concerns.
While earning my degree, I gained valuable experience in career counseling and substance use counseling. During the last ten years I have served clients with significant anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as issues dealing with psychosis. Trained in CBT, CPT, ACT, Mindfulness and PCIT (promoting the parent-child relationship).
Emily has experience with diagnosing Adults including adult women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, PTSD, and the range of mood, anxiety, thought, and Learning Disorders.
You deserve to feel seen and heard in much more than a “surface” look at what is behind your struggles. Dr. Emily's comprehensive evaluations explore differential diagnosis to look at many possible explanations for your symptoms/concerns, and you are given a detailed report with resources. Since 2009, Licensed Psychologist Dr. Emily has specialized in comprehensive evaluations for ages 16 and older. She uses evidence-based assessment tools and diagnoses based on DSM 5-TR criteria. All diagnoses are officially recognized by mental health providers and other medical professions, academic settings, etc. as conclusive.
Emily has experience with diagnosing Adults including adult women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, PTSD, and the range of mood, anxiety, thought, and Learning Disorders.
You deserve to feel seen and heard in much more than a “surface” look at what is behind your struggles. Dr. Emily's comprehensive evaluations explore differential diagnosis to look at many possible explanations for your symptoms/concerns, and you are given a detailed report with resources. Since 2009, Licensed Psychologist Dr. Emily has specialized in comprehensive evaluations for ages 16 and older. She uses evidence-based assessment tools and diagnoses based on DSM 5-TR criteria. All diagnoses are officially recognized by mental health providers and other medical professions, academic settings, etc. as conclusive.
I have completed extensive training on autism, The Gottman Method, anxiety, peripartum mental health, perfectionism, and more.
Life is hard! There are so many things to balance and never enough hours in the day. Your mind is always full of worries, to dos, and random things and it seems impossible to shut off the noise. You want to be able to relax and be more present in your life but have no idea how to make that happen. You have read the self help books and attempted meditation, but it did not work. Instead of trying to find ways to be more efficient at doing it all what would happen if you took some time to pause and work with someone who can help you sort through all of the thoughts and commitments? What if you were able to rest?
I have completed extensive training on autism, The Gottman Method, anxiety, peripartum mental health, perfectionism, and more.
Life is hard! There are so many things to balance and never enough hours in the day. Your mind is always full of worries, to dos, and random things and it seems impossible to shut off the noise. You want to be able to relax and be more present in your life but have no idea how to make that happen. You have read the self help books and attempted meditation, but it did not work. Instead of trying to find ways to be more efficient at doing it all what would happen if you took some time to pause and work with someone who can help you sort through all of the thoughts and commitments? What if you were able to rest?
Emily has experience with diagnosing Adults including adult women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, PTSD, and the range of mood, anxiety, thought, and Learning Disorders.
You deserve to feel seen and heard in much more than a “surface” look at what is behind your struggles. Dr. Emily's comprehensive evaluations explore differential diagnosis to look at many possible explanations for your symptoms/concerns, and you are given a detailed report with resources. Since 2009, Licensed Psychologist Dr. Emily has specialized in comprehensive evaluations for ages 16 and older. She uses evidence-based assessment tools and diagnoses based on DSM 5-TR criteria. All diagnoses are officially recognized by mental health providers and other medical professions, academic settings, etc. as conclusive.
Emily has experience with diagnosing Adults including adult women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, PTSD, and the range of mood, anxiety, thought, and Learning Disorders.
You deserve to feel seen and heard in much more than a “surface” look at what is behind your struggles. Dr. Emily's comprehensive evaluations explore differential diagnosis to look at many possible explanations for your symptoms/concerns, and you are given a detailed report with resources. Since 2009, Licensed Psychologist Dr. Emily has specialized in comprehensive evaluations for ages 16 and older. She uses evidence-based assessment tools and diagnoses based on DSM 5-TR criteria. All diagnoses are officially recognized by mental health providers and other medical professions, academic settings, etc. as conclusive.
Many people are learning as adults that they are on the autism spectrum, coping with ADHD, or both.
Sometimes life feels like a labyrinth of choices, full of erratic relationships and life altering change, which can be difficult to maneuver. I am here to help. I have a passion for working with those struggling with the transitions life takes us through. Change evokes many different emotions and the process is different for each of us. I am a client centered, solution focused therapist. I view life holistically and focus on both mind and body in therapy. If you need help through an unexpected or difficult change, are struggling with relationships, or trying to better understand neurodivergence, I might be the right fit for you.
Many people are learning as adults that they are on the autism spectrum, coping with ADHD, or both.
Sometimes life feels like a labyrinth of choices, full of erratic relationships and life altering change, which can be difficult to maneuver. I am here to help. I have a passion for working with those struggling with the transitions life takes us through. Change evokes many different emotions and the process is different for each of us. I am a client centered, solution focused therapist. I view life holistically and focus on both mind and body in therapy. If you need help through an unexpected or difficult change, are struggling with relationships, or trying to better understand neurodivergence, I might be the right fit for you.
I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, emotion regulation difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disorders.
I believe every person is born with unique strengths and finding deep meaning and purpose in life is vitally important to long term happiness. I’m particularly passionate about working with autistic adults and individuals with developmental disabilities. I take a strengths based approach to empower you to achieve your goals, become more independent, and navigate life’s ups and downs. I might be the right fit for you if you are looking for a safe place to identify your strengths, explore your life experiences, and discover your purpose.
I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, emotion regulation difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disorders.
I believe every person is born with unique strengths and finding deep meaning and purpose in life is vitally important to long term happiness. I’m particularly passionate about working with autistic adults and individuals with developmental disabilities. I take a strengths based approach to empower you to achieve your goals, become more independent, and navigate life’s ups and downs. I might be the right fit for you if you are looking for a safe place to identify your strengths, explore your life experiences, and discover your purpose.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I'm here to support you on your journey toward better mental health. In our sessions, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. We'll work together to understand your challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and set achievable goals. I aim to help you gain insight, build resilience, and improve your well-being.
I'm here to support you on your journey toward better mental health. In our sessions, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. We'll work together to understand your challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and set achievable goals. I aim to help you gain insight, build resilience, and improve your well-being.
In his thriving practice, he counsels individuals and families, with a Christian approach if desired, with individuals, families, including military families, veterans, other individuals, couples, and their families to provide them with the best practices tools and techniques needed to instill joy in your relationships so that you can live a satisfying and fulfilled life.
In his thriving practice, he counsels individuals and families, with a Christian approach if desired, with individuals, families, including military families, veterans, other individuals, couples, and their families to provide them with the best practices tools and techniques needed to instill joy in your relationships so that you can live a satisfying and fulfilled life.
Ready for a change? Trust me, I get it... Life is not always easy and never seems to go the way you planned. Not to mention, taking care of your mental health can be difficult for so many reasons. Maybe you have been stuck for a long time and are afraid to ask for help. Maybe you have a full plate dealing with all of life's responsibilities, with not enough time in the day. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone! Let’s talk about it and figure this thing out together.
Ready for a change? Trust me, I get it... Life is not always easy and never seems to go the way you planned. Not to mention, taking care of your mental health can be difficult for so many reasons. Maybe you have been stuck for a long time and are afraid to ask for help. Maybe you have a full plate dealing with all of life's responsibilities, with not enough time in the day. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone! Let’s talk about it and figure this thing out together.
I offer individual counseling, mindfulness training, EMDR, and life coaching through video chatting. Common focus areas include: personal growth and development, career issues, lifestyle issues, assertive communication, self-esteem, ADHD, anger management, persistent mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and disability. I enjoy positive psychology and prefer to focus on solutions, strengths, and assets. I feel it is important to view each person from their unique cultural experience with a nonjudgmental stance. I believe in the biopsychosocial model and understand health and functioning as being systemic in nature.
I offer individual counseling, mindfulness training, EMDR, and life coaching through video chatting. Common focus areas include: personal growth and development, career issues, lifestyle issues, assertive communication, self-esteem, ADHD, anger management, persistent mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and disability. I enjoy positive psychology and prefer to focus on solutions, strengths, and assets. I feel it is important to view each person from their unique cultural experience with a nonjudgmental stance. I believe in the biopsychosocial model and understand health and functioning as being systemic in nature.
I provide a genuine and authentic space to validate your feelings, and help you figure out what your strengths are, allowing us to use that to your advantage. Everyone goes through tough times and just because you may think that people have it 'worse' than you, doesn't discount your experiences. Life is complicated and difficult, the last thing anyone needs is any shame or pressure for struggling. You're stronger than you realize and I'll be here along side you to remind you!
I provide a genuine and authentic space to validate your feelings, and help you figure out what your strengths are, allowing us to use that to your advantage. Everyone goes through tough times and just because you may think that people have it 'worse' than you, doesn't discount your experiences. Life is complicated and difficult, the last thing anyone needs is any shame or pressure for struggling. You're stronger than you realize and I'll be here along side you to remind you!
Hi there! Feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next step? You're not alone. Whether your navigating life / job changes, struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or have relationship issues, I'm here to help. As someone who understands navigating life's complexities, I'm dedicated to supporting your journey. Together, we'll identify new perspectives and strategies to help you navigate life's hurdles with confidence. Taking this first step is courageous, and I'm happy you're here! Whether you prefer virtual sessions from the coziness of your home or in-person sessions with games, art, or music, we'll find what works best for you!
Hi there! Feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next step? You're not alone. Whether your navigating life / job changes, struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or have relationship issues, I'm here to help. As someone who understands navigating life's complexities, I'm dedicated to supporting your journey. Together, we'll identify new perspectives and strategies to help you navigate life's hurdles with confidence. Taking this first step is courageous, and I'm happy you're here! Whether you prefer virtual sessions from the coziness of your home or in-person sessions with games, art, or music, we'll find what works best for you!
You've been told you're too much or maybe you just feel like too much. Emotions, thoughts, patterns you can’t name but carry anyway. You want to stop spiraling and start living in a way that actually feels real and true to you. I offer a space where your complexity is welcome, where we untangle the overwhelm, build something steady, and let softness and strength exist together.
You've been told you're too much or maybe you just feel like too much. Emotions, thoughts, patterns you can’t name but carry anyway. You want to stop spiraling and start living in a way that actually feels real and true to you. I offer a space where your complexity is welcome, where we untangle the overwhelm, build something steady, and let softness and strength exist together.
Open Arms Wellness - Columbia, MO
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each specialty in the greater Columbia area and we have immediate openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals. Locations: Ballwin, Central West End, Brentwood and Columbia, Missouri.
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each specialty in the greater Columbia area and we have immediate openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals. Locations: Ballwin, Central West End, Brentwood and Columbia, Missouri.
Hello! My name is Sara and I have over 15 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor in St. Louis, Missouri. I have experience working with individuals, families, teenagers, and children. I have provided services in a variety of settings including residential treatment centers, homes, and schools. I am a rostered Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and a Nationally Certified Clinician.
Hello! My name is Sara and I have over 15 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor in St. Louis, Missouri. I have experience working with individuals, families, teenagers, and children. I have provided services in a variety of settings including residential treatment centers, homes, and schools. I am a rostered Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and a Nationally Certified Clinician.
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.