Autism Therapists in Saint Louis, MO
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’ve spent a decade on the ground—in homes, at jobsites, in crisis—working with neurodivergent brains.
Let's cut the crap. You're here because you feel like you're failing at a game you never signed up to play. The constant chorus of "just try harder" is ringing in your ears, and you're exhausted from pretending it works. As an AuDHD therapist who has lived this, I get it. This isn't a deficit in you. This is you reacting perfectly to a world built on a foundation of BS—a world that demands you shrink to fit. You don't need to be fixed. You need a co-conspirator.
I’ve spent a decade on the ground—in homes, at jobsites, in crisis—working with neurodivergent brains.
Let's cut the crap. You're here because you feel like you're failing at a game you never signed up to play. The constant chorus of "just try harder" is ringing in your ears, and you're exhausted from pretending it works. As an AuDHD therapist who has lived this, I get it. This isn't a deficit in you. This is you reacting perfectly to a world built on a foundation of BS—a world that demands you shrink to fit. You don't need to be fixed. You need a co-conspirator.
Having trouble navigating a relationship with a parent, coworker, spouse/partner or an adult child? Do you feel you need a change in your life, but you are just not sure what to do or how to do it? Have you been feeling stressed or depressed, but don't know why? Whether you're looking for a short-term counselor to hold you accountable to a resolution you've made or a long-term therapist to help you process relationship or childhood trauma, start your journey today. Perhaps you've been to therapy before and hated it; I am committed to doing things differently.
Having trouble navigating a relationship with a parent, coworker, spouse/partner or an adult child? Do you feel you need a change in your life, but you are just not sure what to do or how to do it? Have you been feeling stressed or depressed, but don't know why? Whether you're looking for a short-term counselor to hold you accountable to a resolution you've made or a long-term therapist to help you process relationship or childhood trauma, start your journey today. Perhaps you've been to therapy before and hated it; I am committed to doing things differently.
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, high discipline 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, high discipline 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.
You might be newly diagnosed or wondering if ADHD or autism could explain some of your lifelong experiences.
You don't need to "fix" yourself. I work with neurodivergent adults and late-diagnosed individuals who are done trying to fit into a mold that wasn’t made for them. Together, we’ will explore your unique wiring, reduce shame, and develop personalized strategies that honor your strengths. Therapy can be a space where you feel truly seen and empowered.
You might be newly diagnosed or wondering if ADHD or autism could explain some of your lifelong experiences.
You don't need to "fix" yourself. I work with neurodivergent adults and late-diagnosed individuals who are done trying to fit into a mold that wasn’t made for them. Together, we’ will explore your unique wiring, reduce shame, and develop personalized strategies that honor your strengths. Therapy can be a space where you feel truly seen and empowered.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate issues such as self-esteem, grief, career transitions, and life changes. I offer compassionate care for those facing social anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation, and I’m deeply committed to promoting self-discovery and emotional growth through an open, empathetic therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate issues such as self-esteem, grief, career transitions, and life changes. I offer compassionate care for those facing social anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation, and I’m deeply committed to promoting self-discovery and emotional growth through an open, empathetic therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults—particularly those navigating life with Autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivity—who are also on a journey of trauma recovery and unmasking.
What sets my practice apart is my focus on trauma recovery specifically for neurodivergent individuals. Most traditional trauma techniques don’t account for the complexity of a neurodivergent nervous system—and that’s where I come in. Whether you’re working through masking, burnout, developmental trauma, or sensory overwhelm, I’ll meet you where you are.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults—particularly those navigating life with Autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivity—who are also on a journey of trauma recovery and unmasking.
What sets my practice apart is my focus on trauma recovery specifically for neurodivergent individuals. Most traditional trauma techniques don’t account for the complexity of a neurodivergent nervous system—and that’s where I come in. Whether you’re working through masking, burnout, developmental trauma, or sensory overwhelm, I’ll meet you where you are.
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.
Many families face challenges when their children struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, or PTSD.
LFCS provides free psychiatry services for kids 8–19 in St. Louis County and 8–18 in Franklin County. Dr. Claudia Viamontes and Dr. Bryan Sewing specialize in child psychiatry, offering medication management, evaluations (ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, PTSD), and care plans.
Many families face challenges when their children struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, or PTSD.
LFCS provides free psychiatry services for kids 8–19 in St. Louis County and 8–18 in Franklin County. Dr. Claudia Viamontes and Dr. Bryan Sewing specialize in child psychiatry, offering medication management, evaluations (ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, PTSD), and care plans.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent women, particularly autistic clients and ADHDers.
I love working with individuals that identify with female-presenting high-masking neurodivergency, particularly in college-aged individuals. Some other terms for high-masking that are heard can be "high-functioning" or "late or self-diagnosed".
I believe in empowering ourselves and granting ourselves the skills needed to succeed in an environment that might be challenging otherwise. My main goal is to connect with you, and help you achieve your goals in whatever capacity it may present as.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent women, particularly autistic clients and ADHDers.
I love working with individuals that identify with female-presenting high-masking neurodivergency, particularly in college-aged individuals. Some other terms for high-masking that are heard can be "high-functioning" or "late or self-diagnosed".
I believe in empowering ourselves and granting ourselves the skills needed to succeed in an environment that might be challenging otherwise. My main goal is to connect with you, and help you achieve your goals in whatever capacity it may present as.
I work with clients 12+ who may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or like life’s weight is too heavy—whether navigating transitions, caregiver or parenting challenges, or struggles with self-esteem and confidence. Together, we’ll build clarity, resilience, and healthy boundaries using CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, and mindfulness techniques, with practical tools and “homework” to continue growth outside of therapy, helping you feel supported, understood, and less isolated.
I work with clients 12+ who may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or like life’s weight is too heavy—whether navigating transitions, caregiver or parenting challenges, or struggles with self-esteem and confidence. Together, we’ll build clarity, resilience, and healthy boundaries using CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, and mindfulness techniques, with practical tools and “homework” to continue growth outside of therapy, helping you feel supported, understood, and less isolated.
Ariel Swoboda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, MA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are Your Efforts Trying to Feel In Control Causing You to Feel Overwhelmed?
I'm Ariel, owner of Healing Hues Counseling LLC, a licensed art therapist and counselor. I offer virtual therapy that fits into your schedule from the comfort of your home. We’ll work together to address your unique challenges, whether in relationships, work, or school. Using art therapy and a compassionate, client-centered approach, I’ll help you gain clarity, balance, and emotional well-being. Let’s work together to help you reconnect with your true self, the way you felt before life’s challenges created barriers. I’m here to support you.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are Your Efforts Trying to Feel In Control Causing You to Feel Overwhelmed?
I'm Ariel, owner of Healing Hues Counseling LLC, a licensed art therapist and counselor. I offer virtual therapy that fits into your schedule from the comfort of your home. We’ll work together to address your unique challenges, whether in relationships, work, or school. Using art therapy and a compassionate, client-centered approach, I’ll help you gain clarity, balance, and emotional well-being. Let’s work together to help you reconnect with your true self, the way you felt before life’s challenges created barriers. I’m here to support you.
My name is Janice Mills, and I am an LPC and a Certified Substance Abuse Professional. I have Bachelor of Social Work degree with a master's in counseling and education. My education and experience have stressed the importance of working with individuals to identify their strengths and help build their supports. My philosophy on counseling is strength and solution based. I believe that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all connected and in altering one we can make life changes. I am an experienced psychotherapist who offers a variety of treatment modalities in order to individualize the treatment process.
My name is Janice Mills, and I am an LPC and a Certified Substance Abuse Professional. I have Bachelor of Social Work degree with a master's in counseling and education. My education and experience have stressed the importance of working with individuals to identify their strengths and help build their supports. My philosophy on counseling is strength and solution based. I believe that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all connected and in altering one we can make life changes. I am an experienced psychotherapist who offers a variety of treatment modalities in order to individualize the treatment process.
Feeling like you’re always falling behind often stems from being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
Do you ever feel like you're constantly playing catch-up, no matter how hard you try? Your to-do list keeps growing, but you keep procrastinating, leaving you stressed and scrambling. Even when you know what needs to get done, distractions always pull you away—one minute you're working, and the next, you're lost in social media. At work, you're worried people will realize you're not as organized or capable as you seem, and at home, it feels like nothing gets done. You're always late, misplacing things like your keys or phone, and feel like you're letting others down. Emotionally, you're exhausted—overwhelmed, guilty, and frustrated
Feeling like you’re always falling behind often stems from being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
Do you ever feel like you're constantly playing catch-up, no matter how hard you try? Your to-do list keeps growing, but you keep procrastinating, leaving you stressed and scrambling. Even when you know what needs to get done, distractions always pull you away—one minute you're working, and the next, you're lost in social media. At work, you're worried people will realize you're not as organized or capable as you seem, and at home, it feels like nothing gets done. You're always late, misplacing things like your keys or phone, and feel like you're letting others down. Emotionally, you're exhausted—overwhelmed, guilty, and frustrated
Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 23 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 23 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
Hayley Menges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the privilege of working closely for many years with autistic children, teens, young adults and their families.
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hey! My name is Hayley Menges and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with children, teens and young adults.
I value a person-centered, strengths-based and playful approach in which we utilize tailored interventions to meet each person's unique needs and affirms their identities. My approach to therapy is strongly rooted in connection, empathy, understanding and acceptance.
Through a variety of approaches, I hope to empower others to explore means for self-expression, develop strategies to regulate emotions, build self-awareness & develop coping techniques that work for them.
I have had the privilege of working closely for many years with autistic children, teens, young adults and their families.
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hey! My name is Hayley Menges and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with children, teens and young adults.
I value a person-centered, strengths-based and playful approach in which we utilize tailored interventions to meet each person's unique needs and affirms their identities. My approach to therapy is strongly rooted in connection, empathy, understanding and acceptance.
Through a variety of approaches, I hope to empower others to explore means for self-expression, develop strategies to regulate emotions, build self-awareness & develop coping techniques that work for them.
Utilizing an integrative approach I work with anxiety, overwhelm, burn out, stress, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD and late-recognized Autism.
I blend elements of psychodynamic therapy, CBT, ACT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART, which is similar to EMDR) to help tailor therapy to the individual’s needs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is very important to the success of therapy. It’s important that you feel comfortable with me.
Utilizing an integrative approach I work with anxiety, overwhelm, burn out, stress, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD and late-recognized Autism.
I blend elements of psychodynamic therapy, CBT, ACT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART, which is similar to EMDR) to help tailor therapy to the individual’s needs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is very important to the success of therapy. It’s important that you feel comfortable with me.
Autism Evals
Currently self-pay has little wait-time for an evaluation
Insurance, sliding scale, & pro-bono are waitlist
I have extensive experience in all things autism (including diagnostic evaluations) & LGBTQ+ with an emphasis on strengths-based interventions. My approach is client-centered, strengths driven, trauma-informed, & culturally competent. In the midst of trying times, I aim to help people create the lives they want for themselves, their families, & communities.
Autism Evals
Currently self-pay has little wait-time for an evaluation
Insurance, sliding scale, & pro-bono are waitlist
I have extensive experience in all things autism (including diagnostic evaluations) & LGBTQ+ with an emphasis on strengths-based interventions. My approach is client-centered, strengths driven, trauma-informed, & culturally competent. In the midst of trying times, I aim to help people create the lives they want for themselves, their families, & communities.
As a queer person with neurodivergence and invisible disabilities, I know what it is like to receive the message that we do not belong. You may be fed up with how this world is not created for us, the lack of support and resources, and the pressure to change who you are to be seen. My greatest hope is that therapy can be a place where your most authentic self is welcomed, encouraged, and where the gifts of who and how you are can be witnessed and cherished as they always should have been. It is from this place, of being allowed to be who you are, that you can start to heal and believe that there was never anything wrong with you.
As a queer person with neurodivergence and invisible disabilities, I know what it is like to receive the message that we do not belong. You may be fed up with how this world is not created for us, the lack of support and resources, and the pressure to change who you are to be seen. My greatest hope is that therapy can be a place where your most authentic self is welcomed, encouraged, and where the gifts of who and how you are can be witnessed and cherished as they always should have been. It is from this place, of being allowed to be who you are, that you can start to heal and believe that there was never anything wrong with you.
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.
See more therapy options for Saint Louis
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Saint Louis
- Brentwood
- Clayton
- Frontenac
- Kirkwood
- Ladue
- Maplewood
- Olivette
- Richmond Heights
- Saint Ann
- Sappington
- University City
- Webster Groves
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.