Autism Therapists in Tennessee
As a person who was late-diagnosed with ADHD and autism, I understand how someone might look successful on the outside, but internally feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in cycles of anxiety, low mood, and self-doubt.
My approach is collaborative, structured, and compassionate. Together, we work to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and build tools that actually work for your brain! Therapy is about helping you function better day to day, with less shame and more self-trust. I enjoy working with individuals and couples!
As a person who was late-diagnosed with ADHD and autism, I understand how someone might look successful on the outside, but internally feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in cycles of anxiety, low mood, and self-doubt.
My approach is collaborative, structured, and compassionate. Together, we work to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and build tools that actually work for your brain! Therapy is about helping you function better day to day, with less shame and more self-trust. I enjoy working with individuals and couples!
I specialize in working with autistic and neurodivergent indviduals.
In my practice I utilize a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, recognizing the diverse abilities and challenges within the neurodivergent community. I work to adapt my therapeutic style to suit individual communication styles and sensory sensitivities to ensure a comfortable therapeutic environment.
I specialize in working with autistic and neurodivergent indviduals.
In my practice I utilize a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, recognizing the diverse abilities and challenges within the neurodivergent community. I work to adapt my therapeutic style to suit individual communication styles and sensory sensitivities to ensure a comfortable therapeutic environment.
My specializations include trauma and complex trauma, gender and sexual identity exploration, managing a neurotypical world with a neurodivergent nervous system, and support with nontraditional relationship styles.
If you are looking to increase safety in your nervous system, address patterns that no longer serve you, or regain access to your fully embodied self, I'm here for you. I work with clients who may have felt misunderstood or marginalized in other spaces and are looking for care that honors their lived experience without judgment. In our sessions, it is my priority to provide safety for and acceptance for the whole self, including all parts of who you are and all aspects of your lived experience.
My specializations include trauma and complex trauma, gender and sexual identity exploration, managing a neurotypical world with a neurodivergent nervous system, and support with nontraditional relationship styles.
If you are looking to increase safety in your nervous system, address patterns that no longer serve you, or regain access to your fully embodied self, I'm here for you. I work with clients who may have felt misunderstood or marginalized in other spaces and are looking for care that honors their lived experience without judgment. In our sessions, it is my priority to provide safety for and acceptance for the whole self, including all parts of who you are and all aspects of your lived experience.
I am a queer neurodivergent licensed clinical social worker practicing in Tennessee.
I am passionate about trauma-focused work, and I specialize in supporting clients through traumatic experiences, chronic or ongoing trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and more. I also specialize in neurodivergence including ADHD, autism, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, and LGBTQ+ needs.
I am a queer neurodivergent licensed clinical social worker practicing in Tennessee.
I am passionate about trauma-focused work, and I specialize in supporting clients through traumatic experiences, chronic or ongoing trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and more. I also specialize in neurodivergence including ADHD, autism, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, and LGBTQ+ needs.
I have a passion for working with children effected by Trauma, Anxiety, ADHD and Autism.
Change can feel overwhelming and scary for children and teens - even if it's positive change.
Trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and many other issues can cause a child to feel as if they are constantly carrying around an invisible weight. Children and teenagers need a safe person and a safe space to feel they have the freedom and security to process their thoughts and emotions.
It's my job to create that safe (and fun!) space to help your child develop the skills they need to feel empowered to address their challenges with confidence, and help you both to build stronger relationships and bonds within your family.
I have a passion for working with children effected by Trauma, Anxiety, ADHD and Autism.
Change can feel overwhelming and scary for children and teens - even if it's positive change.
Trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and many other issues can cause a child to feel as if they are constantly carrying around an invisible weight. Children and teenagers need a safe person and a safe space to feel they have the freedom and security to process their thoughts and emotions.
It's my job to create that safe (and fun!) space to help your child develop the skills they need to feel empowered to address their challenges with confidence, and help you both to build stronger relationships and bonds within your family.
I am passionate about working with women, parents and children. I walk alongside women as they struggle with relationships or difficult life transitions. I assist parents in exploring new techniques for raising their children. And, I also work directly with the children using play to work through trauma or explore behavioral concerns.
I am passionate about working with women, parents and children. I walk alongside women as they struggle with relationships or difficult life transitions. I assist parents in exploring new techniques for raising their children. And, I also work directly with the children using play to work through trauma or explore behavioral concerns.
If you're neurodivergent, don't feel well, or have complex trauma, you'll get practical support and deep processing (when and how it’s right for you) to get through the hard stuff so you can live a life that actually fits you.
You'll understand your inner world (and inner conflicts) better, and how that inner world is influencing your decisions, relationships, work, creativity, etc. It can feel like our bodies, our decisions, our loved ones, life, God/the Universe, etc. have betrayed us. You'll begin to heal your nervous system from all of that and learn to trust yourself.
If you're neurodivergent, don't feel well, or have complex trauma, you'll get practical support and deep processing (when and how it’s right for you) to get through the hard stuff so you can live a life that actually fits you.
You'll understand your inner world (and inner conflicts) better, and how that inner world is influencing your decisions, relationships, work, creativity, etc. It can feel like our bodies, our decisions, our loved ones, life, God/the Universe, etc. have betrayed us. You'll begin to heal your nervous system from all of that and learn to trust yourself.
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed, affirming therapy for clients of all ages with neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism) and LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults.
The decision to start therapy is not always easy, and finding the right therapist can seem daunting. Whatever challenges life has thrown your way, you want a therapist who supports you with compassion, curiosity, and commitment. I believe that human connection is at the heart of healing, and I strive to develop a strong, client-centered therapeutic relationship based on trust and acceptance. I offer a safe and affirming environment for all clients. It is an act of bravery to embark on a healing journey, and I would be honored to be apart of yours.
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed, affirming therapy for clients of all ages with neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism) and LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults.
The decision to start therapy is not always easy, and finding the right therapist can seem daunting. Whatever challenges life has thrown your way, you want a therapist who supports you with compassion, curiosity, and commitment. I believe that human connection is at the heart of healing, and I strive to develop a strong, client-centered therapeutic relationship based on trust and acceptance. I offer a safe and affirming environment for all clients. It is an act of bravery to embark on a healing journey, and I would be honored to be apart of yours.
I have a drive to help those who are struggling with autism spectrum disorder, addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I have worked a great deal with men struggling with various addictions as well as men, women, and children who have been traumatized and/or battling depression and anxiety issues. I have been heavily trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and reality therapy. Furthermore, I also have experience with the autism community.
I have a drive to help those who are struggling with autism spectrum disorder, addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I have worked a great deal with men struggling with various addictions as well as men, women, and children who have been traumatized and/or battling depression and anxiety issues. I have been heavily trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and reality therapy. Furthermore, I also have experience with the autism community.
You have tried traditional talk therapy, but if feels like there's still something missing. You have tried medications, but they just seem to cover up your symptoms without offering real relief, and you are tired of dealing with the side effects. You have forgotten (or have never known) what it feels like to be calm, centered, focused, and free from anxiety and stress. You are starting to wonder if it's even possible for you to experience true wellness.
You have tried traditional talk therapy, but if feels like there's still something missing. You have tried medications, but they just seem to cover up your symptoms without offering real relief, and you are tired of dealing with the side effects. You have forgotten (or have never known) what it feels like to be calm, centered, focused, and free from anxiety and stress. You are starting to wonder if it's even possible for you to experience true wellness.
Welcome! I'm Joelle Marlin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Reaching out takes courage, and I'm honored you are considering contacting me. If you're struggling and realizing that you need more support for your mental health, you're in the right place. Perhaps you always felt something was "wrong with you" but are realizing that it might have been neurodivergence all along. Maybe you need to process some hard experiences with a caring therapist who accepts you and sees your strengths. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where you feel heard and empowered for growth. I look forward to being part of your journey!
Welcome! I'm Joelle Marlin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Reaching out takes courage, and I'm honored you are considering contacting me. If you're struggling and realizing that you need more support for your mental health, you're in the right place. Perhaps you always felt something was "wrong with you" but are realizing that it might have been neurodivergence all along. Maybe you need to process some hard experiences with a caring therapist who accepts you and sees your strengths. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where you feel heard and empowered for growth. I look forward to being part of your journey!
I specialize in and have been working with neurodivergent individuals for over 15 years.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, and burnt out? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and believing that nobody truly understands you? It's possible that you've always had a sense of being different and perhaps you've had to conceal your true feelings and authentic self in order to fit in and avoid standing out. Maintaining this façade requires an immense amount of effort and now you find yourself on the verge of losing the very essence that makes you unique. You deserve to feel relief from the constant burnout and to feel a sense of belonging in a world that has always made you feel "othered."
I specialize in and have been working with neurodivergent individuals for over 15 years.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, and burnt out? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and believing that nobody truly understands you? It's possible that you've always had a sense of being different and perhaps you've had to conceal your true feelings and authentic self in order to fit in and avoid standing out. Maintaining this façade requires an immense amount of effort and now you find yourself on the verge of losing the very essence that makes you unique. You deserve to feel relief from the constant burnout and to feel a sense of belonging in a world that has always made you feel "othered."
Hey there! I’m Megan, the owner and therapist at Moxie Mental Health, LLC. My approach to therapy is collaborative and affable. My main goal in establishing a therapeutic relationship is to meet my clients where they are by focusing on their unique aspirations, talents, and experiences. Life is complex, and while specific diagnoses and interventions are important frameworks for treatment, healing is also achieved through genuine connection and exploration. I aim to be an authentic, kind, and facilitative companion in my clients’ journeys. It would be a joy to get to know you and to assist in the attainment of your goals!
Hey there! I’m Megan, the owner and therapist at Moxie Mental Health, LLC. My approach to therapy is collaborative and affable. My main goal in establishing a therapeutic relationship is to meet my clients where they are by focusing on their unique aspirations, talents, and experiences. Life is complex, and while specific diagnoses and interventions are important frameworks for treatment, healing is also achieved through genuine connection and exploration. I aim to be an authentic, kind, and facilitative companion in my clients’ journeys. It would be a joy to get to know you and to assist in the attainment of your goals!
We have expertise in the diagnosis of autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, developmental delays, intellectual giftedness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral disorders, and emotional disturbances that are likely to impact educational and daily functioning.
Our extensive experience working within school districts makes us especially equipped to provide you with an evaluation that meets your needs. It can be intimidating to try to navigate the process of getting an accurate diagnosis. Rely on our specialized knowledge and experience to ensure that you get the answers that you are seeking.
We have expertise in the diagnosis of autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, developmental delays, intellectual giftedness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral disorders, and emotional disturbances that are likely to impact educational and daily functioning.
Our extensive experience working within school districts makes us especially equipped to provide you with an evaluation that meets your needs. It can be intimidating to try to navigate the process of getting an accurate diagnosis. Rely on our specialized knowledge and experience to ensure that you get the answers that you are seeking.
As a non-binary autistic therapist, I specialize in working with neurodivergent (especially late identified autistics and ADHDers) and queer/trans people of all ages.
Whether you are experiencing the impacts of trauma, or you are wanting to learn how to better navigate the world as a queer or neurodivergent person, we can work towards tangible change in your life. I view a safe therapeutic relationship, curiosity, and collaboration as foundational aspects of therapy.
As a non-binary autistic therapist, I specialize in working with neurodivergent (especially late identified autistics and ADHDers) and queer/trans people of all ages.
Whether you are experiencing the impacts of trauma, or you are wanting to learn how to better navigate the world as a queer or neurodivergent person, we can work towards tangible change in your life. I view a safe therapeutic relationship, curiosity, and collaboration as foundational aspects of therapy.
I have years of personal and professional experience with neurodivergence and work to educate other professionals about the harm of treating being autistic as a disorder that needs to be “cured”.
I have decades of experience and extensive training in trauma, substance abuse, neurodivergence, depression, & anxiety. I have a wealth of knowledge about the legal, school, and healthcare systems. I am comfortable working with people from every walk of life, including those who are people of color, disabled, and/or who identify as LGBTQ+. I specialize in working with adolescents and have worked with numerous trauma survivors. Mental health issues are often the direct result, not of individual responses to stress, but a reaction to a variety of societal ills - racism, homophobia and transphobia, ableism, economic inequality, etc.
I have years of personal and professional experience with neurodivergence and work to educate other professionals about the harm of treating being autistic as a disorder that needs to be “cured”.
I have decades of experience and extensive training in trauma, substance abuse, neurodivergence, depression, & anxiety. I have a wealth of knowledge about the legal, school, and healthcare systems. I am comfortable working with people from every walk of life, including those who are people of color, disabled, and/or who identify as LGBTQ+. I specialize in working with adolescents and have worked with numerous trauma survivors. Mental health issues are often the direct result, not of individual responses to stress, but a reaction to a variety of societal ills - racism, homophobia and transphobia, ableism, economic inequality, etc.
Are you or someone you love struggling to navigate life with ADHD, Autism, OCD, Bipolar disorder, or Anxiety?
I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals—those whose brains process the world a bit differently. I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations and therapy tailored to the unique strengths and challenges of each person I see. My areas of focus include Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Mood Disorders.
Are you or someone you love struggling to navigate life with ADHD, Autism, OCD, Bipolar disorder, or Anxiety?
I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals—those whose brains process the world a bit differently. I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations and therapy tailored to the unique strengths and challenges of each person I see. My areas of focus include Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Mood Disorders.
I have experience working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults and am constantly educating myself on effective ways to increase connection and communication in creative ways.
I believe that creativity is an innate human drive and exploring one’s creativity through visual art and play is an effective way to heal and express ourselves. I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to encounter their emotions, explore their personal narrative, improve relationships, and express themselves fully. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are seeking support and looking to find their most authentic and creative self.
I have experience working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults and am constantly educating myself on effective ways to increase connection and communication in creative ways.
I believe that creativity is an innate human drive and exploring one’s creativity through visual art and play is an effective way to heal and express ourselves. I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to encounter their emotions, explore their personal narrative, improve relationships, and express themselves fully. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are seeking support and looking to find their most authentic and creative self.
I enjoy helping support people with trauma, ADHD and Autism, mood disorders, life transitions, and family-of-origin issues.
I am so pumped that you're here! I know what it feels like to seek out a new therapist, and I don’t take for granted the courage and vulnerability it takes for you to share these parts of yourself. My goal is to create a pathway to help you reveal your authentic self. We do this by examining what’s been conditioned and impressed upon you while also identifying what feels true and authentic to who you are. I approach this work first and foremost with compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity. I believe there is room for pain and humor in therapy. I promise to keep it real with you and to share some laughs, too!
I enjoy helping support people with trauma, ADHD and Autism, mood disorders, life transitions, and family-of-origin issues.
I am so pumped that you're here! I know what it feels like to seek out a new therapist, and I don’t take for granted the courage and vulnerability it takes for you to share these parts of yourself. My goal is to create a pathway to help you reveal your authentic self. We do this by examining what’s been conditioned and impressed upon you while also identifying what feels true and authentic to who you are. I approach this work first and foremost with compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity. I believe there is room for pain and humor in therapy. I promise to keep it real with you and to share some laughs, too!
I started Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC to service school-age children in the East TN area. I love working with children through pre-teen ages and have also worked with a few higher-functioning teenagers. My typical day involves working with families that face challenges with behavior and working directly with children to decrease these behaviors while building skill deficits. I enjoy including family in my sessions and want to empower caregivers and family members so that they are equipped to handle behavioral challenges.
I started Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC to service school-age children in the East TN area. I love working with children through pre-teen ages and have also worked with a few higher-functioning teenagers. My typical day involves working with families that face challenges with behavior and working directly with children to decrease these behaviors while building skill deficits. I enjoy including family in my sessions and want to empower caregivers and family members so that they are equipped to handle behavioral challenges.
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Autism Therapists
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.