Autism Therapists in Charlottesville, VA
As a trans, neurodivergent therapist, I believe in care for the community, by the community, and I specialize in affirming therapy for LGTBQIA+ and Neurodivergent communities.
Hello! I'm Ames, a clinical social worker offering virtual and in person sessions in Charlottesville, Virginia. As a therapist, I actively work to decolonize my practice and challenge the ways social norms and inequities can limit the care that providers offer our communities. I believe that my job is to support you on your path to authenticity, joy, and wellness.
In session, I incorporate gentle challenges and humor to build a therapeutic relationship that fosters growth and self-reflection. I recognize how harmful systems can impact our mental health, and I believe we have the ability to offer ourselves compassion and action.
As a trans, neurodivergent therapist, I believe in care for the community, by the community, and I specialize in affirming therapy for LGTBQIA+ and Neurodivergent communities.
Hello! I'm Ames, a clinical social worker offering virtual and in person sessions in Charlottesville, Virginia. As a therapist, I actively work to decolonize my practice and challenge the ways social norms and inequities can limit the care that providers offer our communities. I believe that my job is to support you on your path to authenticity, joy, and wellness.
In session, I incorporate gentle challenges and humor to build a therapeutic relationship that fosters growth and self-reflection. I recognize how harmful systems can impact our mental health, and I believe we have the ability to offer ourselves compassion and action.
You may be navigating the challenges of OCD, ADHD, Autism or anxiety—and looking for real tools, understanding, and a sense of control.
I am a trauma-informed therapist with extensive experience counseling adolescents and adults. I have advanced training in evidence-based treatments, including EMDR for trauma and specialized training in ERP for OCD and anxiety. Beyond OCD and ADHD, I have also supported clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ODD and Depression.
You may be navigating the challenges of OCD, ADHD, Autism or anxiety—and looking for real tools, understanding, and a sense of control.
I am a trauma-informed therapist with extensive experience counseling adolescents and adults. I have advanced training in evidence-based treatments, including EMDR for trauma and specialized training in ERP for OCD and anxiety. Beyond OCD and ADHD, I have also supported clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ODD and Depression.
I support both children and adults navigating ADHD, autism, intellectual disabilities, and anxiety.
I work with individuals across the lifespan and from all walks of life, with a special focus on serving the brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) communities. Through specialized training in neurologic music therapy, I provide accessible, strengths-based services that are responsive to the unique needs of individuals with neurologic conditions.
I support both children and adults navigating ADHD, autism, intellectual disabilities, and anxiety.
I work with individuals across the lifespan and from all walks of life, with a special focus on serving the brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) communities. Through specialized training in neurologic music therapy, I provide accessible, strengths-based services that are responsive to the unique needs of individuals with neurologic conditions.
In response to COVID-19, we are now offering remote talk therapy sessions and supervised neurofeedback home training. The Virginia Center for Neurofeedback, Attachment & Trauma offers the gold standard in QEEG-guided neurofeedback for emotional distress, trauma, PTSD, ADD, creativity enhancement and peak performance training. Services also include psychotherapy, EMDR and LENS neurofeedback.
In response to COVID-19, we are now offering remote talk therapy sessions and supervised neurofeedback home training. The Virginia Center for Neurofeedback, Attachment & Trauma offers the gold standard in QEEG-guided neurofeedback for emotional distress, trauma, PTSD, ADD, creativity enhancement and peak performance training. Services also include psychotherapy, EMDR and LENS neurofeedback.
If you’re living with anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or chronic self-doubt—and especially if you identify as neurodivergent, highly sensitive, autistic, or ADHD—you may feel overwhelmed, tense, shut down, or misunderstood.
I offer a healing-oriented, experiential, emotion-focused therapy grounded in attachment and neuroscience (AEDP). Sessions are gentle, collaborative explorations of emotions, formative experiences, and strengths that build presence, curiosity, self-compassion, and a deeper sense of safety and connection.
If you’re living with anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or chronic self-doubt—and especially if you identify as neurodivergent, highly sensitive, autistic, or ADHD—you may feel overwhelmed, tense, shut down, or misunderstood.
I offer a healing-oriented, experiential, emotion-focused therapy grounded in attachment and neuroscience (AEDP). Sessions are gentle, collaborative explorations of emotions, formative experiences, and strengths that build presence, curiosity, self-compassion, and a deeper sense of safety and connection.
I work with people on the autism spectrum dealing with isolation, depression, and anxiety.
I utilize an integrative approach based on your needs, drawing heavily from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I work with people on the autism spectrum dealing with isolation, depression, and anxiety.
I utilize an integrative approach based on your needs, drawing heavily from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We understand that the world is a very hard place to be right now. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around neurodiversity, self acceptance, relationship communication, sexual freedom, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We understand that the world is a very hard place to be right now. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around neurodiversity, self acceptance, relationship communication, sexual freedom, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, Autism/ADHD Spectrum and the adoption triad.
I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to support you in accentuating your strengths and overcoming challenges. One of my strengths is my use of humor to connect on a deeper level with my clients. I am a native Russian speaker and can offer therapy sessions in Russian. I'm so excited to share in your journey!
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, Autism/ADHD Spectrum and the adoption triad.
I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to support you in accentuating your strengths and overcoming challenges. One of my strengths is my use of humor to connect on a deeper level with my clients. I am a native Russian speaker and can offer therapy sessions in Russian. I'm so excited to share in your journey!
As a music therapist, I find meaning in analyzing lyrics. One of my favorite artists, Mac Miller, wrote " We on the same trip, we just got different baggage." In the "trip" of life, we often strive for the same things: happiness, healthiness, success, and connection. However, the "baggage" we carry or the obstacles we face on that road are not always the same, whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues, and more. The road is never easy, so it's always helpful to have a someone in the passenger seat, aiding you in the journey to your destination.
As a music therapist, I find meaning in analyzing lyrics. One of my favorite artists, Mac Miller, wrote " We on the same trip, we just got different baggage." In the "trip" of life, we often strive for the same things: happiness, healthiness, success, and connection. However, the "baggage" we carry or the obstacles we face on that road are not always the same, whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues, and more. The road is never easy, so it's always helpful to have a someone in the passenger seat, aiding you in the journey to your destination.
Blue Ridge Counseling Connection
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ASDCS, CCTP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
ASDCS (Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist) CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional)
Afton has experience working with individuals in the areas of anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, trauma, grief/loss and life transitions. Afton believes that every person is fully capable of change, growth and healing. Her work focuses on empowering clients to recognize their inner strengths and cultivate healthy mindsets. Afton integrates elements of cognitive behavior therapy and solution focused therapy to aid clients in challenging negative thought processes, setting goals and envisioning their future selves. She also uses mindfulness as a way to help clients explore their present situation and find joy and peace.
ASDCS (Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist) CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional)
Afton has experience working with individuals in the areas of anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, trauma, grief/loss and life transitions. Afton believes that every person is fully capable of change, growth and healing. Her work focuses on empowering clients to recognize their inner strengths and cultivate healthy mindsets. Afton integrates elements of cognitive behavior therapy and solution focused therapy to aid clients in challenging negative thought processes, setting goals and envisioning their future selves. She also uses mindfulness as a way to help clients explore their present situation and find joy and peace.
I specialize in working with folks with stigmatized behaviors and identities, or who are otherwise mistreated and ignored in traditional mental health settings. My therapeutic approach is, above all else, strengths-based and person-centered. You are the expert in your own experience and what you need. If you're learning to safely unmask your neurodivergent self, exploring your gender identity or sexuality, examining your substance use, or navigating non-traditional relationship structures like ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM, or queerplatonic dynamics, I'd love to work with you!
I specialize in working with folks with stigmatized behaviors and identities, or who are otherwise mistreated and ignored in traditional mental health settings. My therapeutic approach is, above all else, strengths-based and person-centered. You are the expert in your own experience and what you need. If you're learning to safely unmask your neurodivergent self, exploring your gender identity or sexuality, examining your substance use, or navigating non-traditional relationship structures like ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM, or queerplatonic dynamics, I'd love to work with you!
I have particular experience supporting children and families navigating autism spectrum disorder, helping young clients develop social skills, emotional regulation, and confidence while guiding parents and caregivers through the unique challenges that come with raising a neurodivergent child.
I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. I believe healing begins when individuals feel truly seen and heard.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, sexual abuse, personality disorders, and life transitions.
I have particular experience supporting children and families navigating autism spectrum disorder, helping young clients develop social skills, emotional regulation, and confidence while guiding parents and caregivers through the unique challenges that come with raising a neurodivergent child.
I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. I believe healing begins when individuals feel truly seen and heard.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, sexual abuse, personality disorders, and life transitions.
I am a passionate advocate for social equity, justice, and accessibility to services for all, and while I work with people of all walks and persuasions, I specialize in therapy with those struggling with ADHD, challenges related to being on the autism spectrum, depression, anxiety, trauma, and members of the LGBTQ+ community,
While my theoretical focus is primarily in the realm of cognitive behavioral therapy, I also integrate a number of other interventions and approaches to meet clients' needs. The working therapeutic relationship is critical to your success and my priority will be aligning my work with you in a way that feels respectful, accessible, and ultimately, helpful.
I am a passionate advocate for social equity, justice, and accessibility to services for all, and while I work with people of all walks and persuasions, I specialize in therapy with those struggling with ADHD, challenges related to being on the autism spectrum, depression, anxiety, trauma, and members of the LGBTQ+ community,
While my theoretical focus is primarily in the realm of cognitive behavioral therapy, I also integrate a number of other interventions and approaches to meet clients' needs. The working therapeutic relationship is critical to your success and my priority will be aligning my work with you in a way that feels respectful, accessible, and ultimately, helpful.
I believe that everyone has the capacity for healing. My goal as a therapist is to help you find safety and stability within yourself and in the world around you. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental approach to support adults, teens, and children in managing life and relationship stress, anxiety, depression, school issues, and trauma. My work with clients often includes exploring how present challenges are connected to our past experiences.
I believe that everyone has the capacity for healing. My goal as a therapist is to help you find safety and stability within yourself and in the world around you. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental approach to support adults, teens, and children in managing life and relationship stress, anxiety, depression, school issues, and trauma. My work with clients often includes exploring how present challenges are connected to our past experiences.
Dr. Maryfrances Porter is a licensed clinical psychologist. She works from an attachment orientation to treat people facing personal, relationship, and emotional struggles of all kinds. Dr. Porter is committed to allyship. Dr. Porter also offers telehealth for teens and adults in the following locations: AL, AZ, AR, CO, Northern Mariana Islands, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Dr. Maryfrances Porter is a licensed clinical psychologist. She works from an attachment orientation to treat people facing personal, relationship, and emotional struggles of all kinds. Dr. Porter is committed to allyship. Dr. Porter also offers telehealth for teens and adults in the following locations: AL, AZ, AR, CO, Northern Mariana Islands, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Together we can address your issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/marital issues, parenting- including special needs and autism , supporting transitions and changes in life’s stages such as leaving home, developing independence, new jobs or moves, new parents, life illnesses, caring for parents, death, and divorce...
It is my aim to provide a safe and healing space to work with you through your struggles. Sometimes you may need to get through a particular challenge. Other times it is helpful to develop insight into stuck areas and strategies to work through issues where you notice similar patterns tripping you up. Through this work you can gain greater awarenes of your limiting internal messages and false beliefs , while strengthening your access to your core/wise voice. I am here to support this process, while we move at your pace and aim to support you reaching your goals. I am honored to join in and support your journey.
Together we can address your issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/marital issues, parenting- including special needs and autism , supporting transitions and changes in life’s stages such as leaving home, developing independence, new jobs or moves, new parents, life illnesses, caring for parents, death, and divorce...
It is my aim to provide a safe and healing space to work with you through your struggles. Sometimes you may need to get through a particular challenge. Other times it is helpful to develop insight into stuck areas and strategies to work through issues where you notice similar patterns tripping you up. Through this work you can gain greater awarenes of your limiting internal messages and false beliefs , while strengthening your access to your core/wise voice. I am here to support this process, while we move at your pace and aim to support you reaching your goals. I am honored to join in and support your journey.
Dr. Amy Kale
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, CCPT-S, CPRT-S
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Is your child having challenges at home, at school, or with siblings and friends? You might notice big emotions, worry, frustration, withdrawal, or changes in behavior that leave you feeling concerned or unsure how to help. They may be coping with stress, health challenges, learning differences, or loss. You want to better understand your child’s inner world, support their growth, and strengthen your connection, while feeling more confident, calm, and supported as you help them navigate life’s challenges.
Is your child having challenges at home, at school, or with siblings and friends? You might notice big emotions, worry, frustration, withdrawal, or changes in behavior that leave you feeling concerned or unsure how to help. They may be coping with stress, health challenges, learning differences, or loss. You want to better understand your child’s inner world, support their growth, and strengthen your connection, while feeling more confident, calm, and supported as you help them navigate life’s challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? I support individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, discrimination, life transitions, and challenges with self-worth, relationships, and identity. My approach blends psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic techniques to help clients understand the roots of their struggles and build a stronger, more empowered sense of self.
I am currently pursuing my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Fielding Graduate University. I believe therapy is not just about surviving life’s storms—but learning how to dance in the rain.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? I support individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, discrimination, life transitions, and challenges with self-worth, relationships, and identity. My approach blends psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic techniques to help clients understand the roots of their struggles and build a stronger, more empowered sense of self.
I am currently pursuing my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Fielding Graduate University. I believe therapy is not just about surviving life’s storms—but learning how to dance in the rain.
Maybe you’re Autistic or have ADHD, and you’re carrying old wounds from family or past relationships that left you feeling like your needs didn’t matter.
I help neurodivergent adults heal chronic invalidation, manage anxiety, and repair relationships, starting with the one you have with yourself. My style is warm, affirming, and a little nerdy. If you like talking about games, comics, or fantasy, you’ll feel at home here. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and parts work for real, lasting change.
Maybe you’re Autistic or have ADHD, and you’re carrying old wounds from family or past relationships that left you feeling like your needs didn’t matter.
I help neurodivergent adults heal chronic invalidation, manage anxiety, and repair relationships, starting with the one you have with yourself. My style is warm, affirming, and a little nerdy. If you like talking about games, comics, or fantasy, you’ll feel at home here. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and parts work for real, lasting change.
Maybe you’ve been carrying old trauma, masking neurodivergent traits, or feeling directionless while your needs stay unspoken and unmet.
I help adults work through trauma, anxiety/depression, people-pleasing, burnout, and neurodivergence with a grounded, practical approach. We’ll slow things down, map patterns, calm the nervous system, and build tools that fit your life. I’m queer-affirming, neurodivergence-friendly, and I won’t leave you alone with “insight” that doesn’t change anything.
Maybe you’ve been carrying old trauma, masking neurodivergent traits, or feeling directionless while your needs stay unspoken and unmet.
I help adults work through trauma, anxiety/depression, people-pleasing, burnout, and neurodivergence with a grounded, practical approach. We’ll slow things down, map patterns, calm the nervous system, and build tools that fit your life. I’m queer-affirming, neurodivergence-friendly, and I won’t leave you alone with “insight” that doesn’t change anything.
See more therapy options for Charlottesville
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Charlottesville
See More Autism TherapistsNearby Searches for Charlottesville
- Afton
- Barboursville
- Crozet
- Earlysville
- Ivy
- Keswick
- Palmyra
- Ruckersville
- Scottsville
- Troy
- University
- Zion Crossroads
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.