Autism Therapists in Portland, OR
You’ve just received a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism—or you’re beginning to wonder if one could explain your experiences.
We offer ADHD & autism assessments for adults, using evidence-based tools to better understand neurodivergence and create personalized treatment plans. In therapy, we work, with directive coaching to support the changes you want to see in yourself and in your life. You'll get practical tools and meaningful insights so you can live with greater confidence.
You’ve just received a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism—or you’re beginning to wonder if one could explain your experiences.
We offer ADHD & autism assessments for adults, using evidence-based tools to better understand neurodivergence and create personalized treatment plans. In therapy, we work, with directive coaching to support the changes you want to see in yourself and in your life. You'll get practical tools and meaningful insights so you can live with greater confidence.
Currently Accepting New Clients! I provide individualized assessments for children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of neurocognitive, academic, social, and emotional challenges. I believe that psychological evaluations can play an integral role in deepening our self-awareness while illuminating a path to greater balance and optimal functioning. In my work, I use both clinical interviewing and psychometric testing to gain a comprehensive understanding of each individual. I consider all aspects of the person – from their biology and cognitive processes to their mood, relationships, and cultural influences.
Currently Accepting New Clients! I provide individualized assessments for children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of neurocognitive, academic, social, and emotional challenges. I believe that psychological evaluations can play an integral role in deepening our self-awareness while illuminating a path to greater balance and optimal functioning. In my work, I use both clinical interviewing and psychometric testing to gain a comprehensive understanding of each individual. I consider all aspects of the person – from their biology and cognitive processes to their mood, relationships, and cultural influences.
I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD clients, as well as those who identify as neurodivergent in any way.
Growth and change can be challenging, and my hope is that by offering a supportive and non-judgmental space, I can help clients navigate their challenges and move toward their goals. Everyone’s story is unique, and I am here to honor yours. I believe that we all deserve a safe space to grow, heal, and be truly seen.
I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD clients, as well as those who identify as neurodivergent in any way.
Growth and change can be challenging, and my hope is that by offering a supportive and non-judgmental space, I can help clients navigate their challenges and move toward their goals. Everyone’s story is unique, and I am here to honor yours. I believe that we all deserve a safe space to grow, heal, and be truly seen.
For over 12 years, it has been my privilege to specialize in supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodiversity.
My approach centers the importance of a strong and secure therapeutic relationship. I use a variety evidenced-based techniques, while also striving to foster a casual and person-centered environment. My goal is to give you the tools to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, caregiver challenges, and other mental health issues.
For over 12 years, it has been my privilege to specialize in supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodiversity.
My approach centers the importance of a strong and secure therapeutic relationship. I use a variety evidenced-based techniques, while also striving to foster a casual and person-centered environment. My goal is to give you the tools to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, caregiver challenges, and other mental health issues.
I specialize in supporting kids, teens, and adults with neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, PDA), couples therapy, and betrayal trauma recovery.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I specialize in ADHD, Autism, and PDA support, couples therapy, and betrayal trauma recovery. I provide testing, affirming therapy, and practical tools to reduce anxiety, improve communication, and restore trust. My trauma-informed, collaborative approach helps clients feel truly seen and supported.
I specialize in supporting kids, teens, and adults with neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, PDA), couples therapy, and betrayal trauma recovery.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I specialize in ADHD, Autism, and PDA support, couples therapy, and betrayal trauma recovery. I provide testing, affirming therapy, and practical tools to reduce anxiety, improve communication, and restore trust. My trauma-informed, collaborative approach helps clients feel truly seen and supported.
Do you feel misunderstood or alone in your interactions, and find that arguments or conversations with others often leave you feeling confused or upset? Do you experience chronic pain, stress, or overwhelm, and often feel on edge or have racing thoughts? Do you struggle with concentration, overthinking, or analyzing your interactions with others afterward? Do you feel constantly on the edge of burnout, or like there's no escape from the daily monotony of being an adult? Do you feel like you don't know yourself anymore?
Do you feel misunderstood or alone in your interactions, and find that arguments or conversations with others often leave you feeling confused or upset? Do you experience chronic pain, stress, or overwhelm, and often feel on edge or have racing thoughts? Do you struggle with concentration, overthinking, or analyzing your interactions with others afterward? Do you feel constantly on the edge of burnout, or like there's no escape from the daily monotony of being an adult? Do you feel like you don't know yourself anymore?
Quiet Mind Counseling Services,
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Some of the struggles I can help with include managing stress and anxiety, reducing depression, improving self-esteem/self-worth, finding solutions to relational challenges, parenting conflicts, and working with those who identify as gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender, as well as neurodivergent folx.
My approach to treatment includes a combination of both Cognitive-Behavioral and Narrative theories. These two approaches aim to look at how thoughts and ideas influence emotions and effect behaviors and decisions. In addition, this approach attempts to separate the problem from the individual and often uses homework assignments, journaling, and mindfulness exercises as therapeutic interventions. I believe that the counseling experience is a sacred one. You, as the client, have the power to make healthy and helpful choices in your life. It is my role to assist you in this journey.
Some of the struggles I can help with include managing stress and anxiety, reducing depression, improving self-esteem/self-worth, finding solutions to relational challenges, parenting conflicts, and working with those who identify as gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender, as well as neurodivergent folx.
My approach to treatment includes a combination of both Cognitive-Behavioral and Narrative theories. These two approaches aim to look at how thoughts and ideas influence emotions and effect behaviors and decisions. In addition, this approach attempts to separate the problem from the individual and often uses homework assignments, journaling, and mindfulness exercises as therapeutic interventions. I believe that the counseling experience is a sacred one. You, as the client, have the power to make healthy and helpful choices in your life. It is my role to assist you in this journey.
Stephanie MacDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, a relationship therapist, and a Certified Autism Clinical Specialist.
Stephanie is practicing Child Parent Psychotherapy, focusing on new birthing parents who have experienced trauma and are having difficulty connecting with their child. She is currently accepting clients for this modality. (childparentpsychotherapy dot com for more information)
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, a relationship therapist, and a Certified Autism Clinical Specialist.
Stephanie is practicing Child Parent Psychotherapy, focusing on new birthing parents who have experienced trauma and are having difficulty connecting with their child. She is currently accepting clients for this modality. (childparentpsychotherapy dot com for more information)
Is your child struggling with behaviors in school or at home? Are they navigating a new diagnosis or having difficulty processing acute or prolonged trauma? In my practice, I work directly with children using their natural language (play!) to allow them to explore their interactions with the world around them in a safe environment. With consistency, patience, and acceptance, I find children have great success in learning to regulate their emotions and behaviors inside and out of the playroom.
Is your child struggling with behaviors in school or at home? Are they navigating a new diagnosis or having difficulty processing acute or prolonged trauma? In my practice, I work directly with children using their natural language (play!) to allow them to explore their interactions with the world around them in a safe environment. With consistency, patience, and acceptance, I find children have great success in learning to regulate their emotions and behaviors inside and out of the playroom.
Many of us are learning we are neurodivergent, have autoimmune disorders, feel new spiritual insights, and are ever changing.
I specialize in the feminine energy, trauma, neurodivergence, awakening, self-love, bite size activism, and finding joy in the moment. If you're new to this journey, or you're an old soul, I'm here to grow with you. I love exploring spirituality, identity, diversity, relationships, and developing the best you for each new year of your life.
Many of us are learning we are neurodivergent, have autoimmune disorders, feel new spiritual insights, and are ever changing.
I specialize in the feminine energy, trauma, neurodivergence, awakening, self-love, bite size activism, and finding joy in the moment. If you're new to this journey, or you're an old soul, I'm here to grow with you. I love exploring spirituality, identity, diversity, relationships, and developing the best you for each new year of your life.
I specialize in serving queer and trans communities, as well as autistic, twice-exceptional, or otherwise neurodivergent folks.
My style is relational and centers your (or your child's) needs. For families who want to reduce power struggles and repair relationships, I can offer practices to navigate conflicts with curiosity and collaboration. I am queer, trans, and neurodiversity affirming, and committed to anti-oppressive practice and transformative justice.
I specialize in serving queer and trans communities, as well as autistic, twice-exceptional, or otherwise neurodivergent folks.
My style is relational and centers your (or your child's) needs. For families who want to reduce power struggles and repair relationships, I can offer practices to navigate conflicts with curiosity and collaboration. I am queer, trans, and neurodiversity affirming, and committed to anti-oppressive practice and transformative justice.
I provide psychological assessments for depression, anxiety, intellectual disability, learning disorders, personality disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Immediate availability (within two weeks) for psychological assessment.
I am currently accepting new clients for assessment. My psychological assessments are comprehensive and address the multifaceted aspects of each person I evaluate. Each assessment includes recommendations and individualized feedback. Testing can help to clarify treatment goals, improve therapeutic outcomes, increase self-awareness, and provide recommendations for accommodations at work and/or school.
I provide psychological assessments for depression, anxiety, intellectual disability, learning disorders, personality disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Immediate availability (within two weeks) for psychological assessment.
I am currently accepting new clients for assessment. My psychological assessments are comprehensive and address the multifaceted aspects of each person I evaluate. Each assessment includes recommendations and individualized feedback. Testing can help to clarify treatment goals, improve therapeutic outcomes, increase self-awareness, and provide recommendations for accommodations at work and/or school.
My areas of emphasis are relationships, transgender/gender-expansive affirming care, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ concerns, trauma, sexuality, & bi/multi-ethnic identity. As a therapist, I conceptualize both pain and healing from a developmental, interpersonal, and systemic lens. I offer a safe, compassionate space to explore yourself and your life experiences to promote insight and work through the factors causing you distress, while collaboratively identifying potential shifts that will allow you to manifest who you want to be.
My areas of emphasis are relationships, transgender/gender-expansive affirming care, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ concerns, trauma, sexuality, & bi/multi-ethnic identity. As a therapist, I conceptualize both pain and healing from a developmental, interpersonal, and systemic lens. I offer a safe, compassionate space to explore yourself and your life experiences to promote insight and work through the factors causing you distress, while collaboratively identifying potential shifts that will allow you to manifest who you want to be.
Many of my clients are neurodivergent teens and adults — Autistic, ADHD, or AuDHD — who’ve spent years feeling misunderstood, overlooked, or told their struggles “shouldn’t be this hard
I offer neurodivergent-affirming therapy and in-depth ADHD and Autism evaluations for teens and adults. My approach is relational, collaborative, and gently structured, with an emphasis on clarity and emotional safety. Together, we explore patterns, identity, and nervous-system needs while building a life that feels more sustainable and true.
Many of my clients are neurodivergent teens and adults — Autistic, ADHD, or AuDHD — who’ve spent years feeling misunderstood, overlooked, or told their struggles “shouldn’t be this hard
I offer neurodivergent-affirming therapy and in-depth ADHD and Autism evaluations for teens and adults. My approach is relational, collaborative, and gently structured, with an emphasis on clarity and emotional safety. Together, we explore patterns, identity, and nervous-system needs while building a life that feels more sustainable and true.
Over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples from marginalized groups, especially neurodivergence in the form of bipolar disorder, autism, and/or ADHD.
In couples work, I help folks relate more effectively to feel more like "experts" on each other's needs. With individuals, I focus on support and skills for neurodivergent people who are autistic, have bipolar disorder and/or ADHD. I see a lot of late-in-life diagnosed people who are finally realizing why their life has felt like a struggle for so long.
Over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples from marginalized groups, especially neurodivergence in the form of bipolar disorder, autism, and/or ADHD.
In couples work, I help folks relate more effectively to feel more like "experts" on each other's needs. With individuals, I focus on support and skills for neurodivergent people who are autistic, have bipolar disorder and/or ADHD. I see a lot of late-in-life diagnosed people who are finally realizing why their life has felt like a struggle for so long.
I do not provide ADHD or Autism Assessments - this can be obtained through a psychologist or your PCP.
I work best with neurodivergent and/or LGBTQIA+ adults and relationships to help you gain insight into habits, experiences, healing, and your identity. I have 30+ hrs of training in EMDR, Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, Somatic Experiencing. I am seeking further training in Internal Family Systems, Exposure & Response Prevention, and sex therapy.
I do not provide ADHD or Autism Assessments - this can be obtained through a psychologist or your PCP.
I work best with neurodivergent and/or LGBTQIA+ adults and relationships to help you gain insight into habits, experiences, healing, and your identity. I have 30+ hrs of training in EMDR, Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, Somatic Experiencing. I am seeking further training in Internal Family Systems, Exposure & Response Prevention, and sex therapy.
As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you.
I specialize in therapy empowering neurodivergent people who don't fit the outdated, "traditional" picture of neurodivergence, including people of color, women, nonbinary, and trans individuals. Together, we create a therapeutic space that honors individuality, promotes resilience, and fosters growth in a safe, understanding environment.
As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you.
I specialize in therapy empowering neurodivergent people who don't fit the outdated, "traditional" picture of neurodivergence, including people of color, women, nonbinary, and trans individuals. Together, we create a therapeutic space that honors individuality, promotes resilience, and fosters growth in a safe, understanding environment.
I also offer traditional talk therapy using CBTs, and neurobehavioral therapy to address behavioral challenges particularly in children diagnosed with ASD with or without intellectual disabilities.
I tend to work with people who have tried many different therapies which failed to adequately improve their brain-related challenges or the benefits of such therapies have plateaued. Thus, this means that my clients tend to have fairly complex symptomologies and diagnoses, sometimes they don't even have formal diagnoses due to the unique mix of symptoms. Maybe the client has physical symptoms that their physician cannot explain and says are psychosomatic or due to a history of complex trauma. I also work with children for both neurofeedback and neurobehavioral counseling, which is behavioral counseling based on neurobiology.
I also offer traditional talk therapy using CBTs, and neurobehavioral therapy to address behavioral challenges particularly in children diagnosed with ASD with or without intellectual disabilities.
I tend to work with people who have tried many different therapies which failed to adequately improve their brain-related challenges or the benefits of such therapies have plateaued. Thus, this means that my clients tend to have fairly complex symptomologies and diagnoses, sometimes they don't even have formal diagnoses due to the unique mix of symptoms. Maybe the client has physical symptoms that their physician cannot explain and says are psychosomatic or due to a history of complex trauma. I also work with children for both neurofeedback and neurobehavioral counseling, which is behavioral counseling based on neurobiology.
Perhaps you've spent years navigating a world not designed for you while having to mask as an Autistic person, or compensate for your challenges with ADHD, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, and more.
Navigating life as a neurodivergent person can be an isolating journey. This weight can lead to challenges in relationships, self-regulation, routines, and finding success in school or work. The struggle to understand why daily tasks seem more overwhelming or why interactions feel more challenging is a common experience.
Perhaps you've spent years navigating a world not designed for you while having to mask as an Autistic person, or compensate for your challenges with ADHD, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, and more.
Navigating life as a neurodivergent person can be an isolating journey. This weight can lead to challenges in relationships, self-regulation, routines, and finding success in school or work. The struggle to understand why daily tasks seem more overwhelming or why interactions feel more challenging is a common experience.
There are many reasons that we can feel anxious, disconnected, or a host of other negative emotions. Know that there's hope that comes from creating a new story that is shaped by your individual values, beliefs, and interests. My practice is dedicated to those who feel overwhelmed by their past and/or present. By understanding your unique life path, we can untangle the impact of your experiences and rebuild your coping toolkit. Together, we can navigate the path to healing and resilience.
There are many reasons that we can feel anxious, disconnected, or a host of other negative emotions. Know that there's hope that comes from creating a new story that is shaped by your individual values, beliefs, and interests. My practice is dedicated to those who feel overwhelmed by their past and/or present. By understanding your unique life path, we can untangle the impact of your experiences and rebuild your coping toolkit. Together, we can navigate the path to healing and resilience.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Portland
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Fairview
- Gladstone
- Gresham
- Happy Valley
- Hillsboro
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
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.