Autism Spectrum Disorder

In the UK, I had a clinical placement at a Specialist Asperger's Syndrome Service in which I provided post-diagnostic counseling to individuals diagnosed with Aspergers/ASD/ASC to help them come to understand their diagnosis and to better navigate the impact of their difference upon their lives. I also have significant experience supporting the partners of persons with Aspergers/ASD/ASC.

Autistic folx often have difficulties getting out of their own heads and worry about how others are perceiving them. For a kid trying to find their place in the world, this can be extremely challenging to battle. I work through the social anxiety with my clients and determine what friendships matter. Being easily overwhelmed and shutting down is also common. I work with my autistic clients to identify their sensory triggers (if any) and how they can accommodate themselves at home or in public.

I help clients who identify (either via past diagnosis or self-diagnosed) as neurodiverse, including individuals on the autism spectrum, highly sensitive individuals, and those form whom their senses and processing are heightened. If an individual is desiring additional assessment, I can help provide referrals. I can also help your partner or loved one understand more about how to support you.

Neurodivergence, executive functioning, and autism are central to my approach as a therapist. I work both to keep this topic in-mind when considering identity, capacity, and other such topics, but also when working through prior trauma. Neurodivergence often means alienation, neglect, and guilt, and I work to process these feelings with clients.

Whether you have been diagnosed as a kid, are newly diagnosed, or suspect you may be on the Autism Spectrum (usually high functioning), I can help you identify the signs/symptoms of ASD and how they are impacting your day-to-day. This does not mean that there is something "wrong" with you, just that you are unique! I can help you to be yourself, find ways to accommodate any difficulties you wish (e.g., sensory issues, attention issues) and thrive to the best of your abilities.

I have many years of experience working with individuals who fall within the neurodivergent population. Regardless if individuals are self-diagnosed or are diagnosed with ASD I value being able to meet each client where they are at. Being able to empower individuals within the neurodivergent community is a passion of mine because labels only say so much as to the capabilities individuals have. I will work with you to better understand yourself as an individual and to build upon your confidence.

ASD is embraced. My style is slightly more structured and concrete in terms of our interactions. I "get" you.

Navigating a world that often feels out of sync with your needs is exhausting. Your therapy should feel like a sanctuary, not another source of stress. We will prioritize your comfort, well-being, and autonomy every step of the way as you undertake your journey towards authenticity and fulfilling relationships. (Eye contact is not required and stimming/movement is always welcome!)

Autists have explosive neural growth from birth to about age 3 with reduced neural "pruning." This rich neural development is probably related to well-known strengths like a capacity for encyclopedic knowledge of complex systems; deep, emotional connections to objects and harmony between objects; a sense of justice; and extreme sensory and observational acuity. My hunch is that autistic hunter-gatherers systematized knowledge of flora and fauna, allowing humans to spread globally.

While I work with clients of varied identities and neurotypes, I work quite often with late-discovered/diagnosed Autistic and/or ADHD adults. Whether you’re in the early days of exploring a potential neurodivergent identity, or processing a recent self or formal neurodivergent diagnosis, I’m passionate about supporting clients through this process and all of the complex emotions that can come with it.

Same as ADHD, but also my approach focuses on authenticity, meaningful connection, and empowering clients to thrive in a world that often overlooks neurodiverse needs.

I am on the Autism Spectrum myself, and understand how this disorder impacts people, and changes some presentation of other struggles such as Anxiety or Depression. I have worked with countless clients who fall on this spectrum, and helped them improve their functioning, understanding how their neuro-spicyness impacts them, and improve their communication skills and social functioning.

As both a clinical social worker and a certified special education teacher, I work with adults with high functioning autism spectrum disorder.

I have extensive experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, including children and adults on the autism spectrum. My expertise is both professional and personal. I strive to create a safe and understanding environment where clients can explore their strengths, navigate challenges and embrace their authentic selves. I focus on helping individuals and families address sensory sensitivities, social communication and emotional regulation while celebrating your unique perspectives and talents.

I have over 15 years of experience navigating the complexities of autism and sexuality. In many ways, this is its own specialized area of care due to the unique sensory sensitivities, mathematical cognitive patterns, and struggles navigating social dynamics. I work with autistic adults to build communication strategies, which are especially important when one partner is neurotypical. In these cases, my therapy approach is to foster active communication and building clarity in relationships.

Behavioral Health Clinic has various counselors experienced in helping individuals and families work through the challenges of living and learning with Autism. We provide diagnosis and support using in-depth, robust assessments to allow for individualized treatment planning. This includes taking into consideration gender, sex, intellectual ability, and racial/cultural factors, which allow for the personalized solutions you need.

Autism doesn’t need to be fixed, but society at large hasn’t yet made space for this. The world is filled with sensory-overwhelming environments and neurotypical expectations so learning to mask is survival. But masking has a cost and can end in overload and burnout. What’s often left is the question: “Who am I?” I can help you learn to listen to your body, find what is healing to your nervous system, grieve past losses, and look toward the future of finding out who you really are.