Autism Therapists in Oak Park, IL
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. I have worked extensively with culturally diverse school-aged children (5-18), and I also enjoy working with and providing support and coaching for the parents/caregivers. I use a collaborative approach with clients of all ages to help develop treatment goals that are observable and developmentally appropriate.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. I have worked extensively with culturally diverse school-aged children (5-18), and I also enjoy working with and providing support and coaching for the parents/caregivers. I use a collaborative approach with clients of all ages to help develop treatment goals that are observable and developmentally appropriate.
Alif Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Waitlist for new clients
Al treats a wide array of clients, particularly those who experience anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
Our journey in life can sometimes burn us out and make us feel hollow. It can leave us wondering about our worth and purpose in life. That's why it's so important to find a therapist who will always respect you and guide you back to the person you truly are.
Al treats a wide array of clients, particularly those who experience anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
Our journey in life can sometimes burn us out and make us feel hollow. It can leave us wondering about our worth and purpose in life. That's why it's so important to find a therapist who will always respect you and guide you back to the person you truly are.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
Melissa Amison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, MAEA, LCSW, LICSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
My motto is "try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud". I enjoy working with individuals, groups, and families from all ages seeking ways to grow socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. I welcome all "walks of life" from various cultural backgrounds who are facing challenges with trauma, mental health disorders, autism, intellectual disabilities, youth in care, family dynamics, and many more. This office provides Telehealth Services (e.g., Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas) and face-to-face sessions.
My motto is "try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud". I enjoy working with individuals, groups, and families from all ages seeking ways to grow socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. I welcome all "walks of life" from various cultural backgrounds who are facing challenges with trauma, mental health disorders, autism, intellectual disabilities, youth in care, family dynamics, and many more. This office provides Telehealth Services (e.g., Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas) and face-to-face sessions.
Heather R. Holzhauser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
My approach as a therapist is warm, kind, and relatable. Recognizing that therapy can be a difficult step to make I strive to help you navigate through the problems that are causing stress or pain. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or your child I am dedicated to helping explore what is preventing you in moving forward in life. I work with individuals with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and depression to parenting issues and childhood behavioral problems.
My approach as a therapist is warm, kind, and relatable. Recognizing that therapy can be a difficult step to make I strive to help you navigate through the problems that are causing stress or pain. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or your child I am dedicated to helping explore what is preventing you in moving forward in life. I work with individuals with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and depression to parenting issues and childhood behavioral problems.
Alexander Serrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS Ed, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
Autism & Anxiety Therapists, INC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Individualized goals are developed for each client and family. Therapy sessions are tailored to match these goals, as well as the unique interpersonal and organizational needs of each client. A variety of treatment strategies are used to target these goals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies, the use of structure to promote organization and the development of new skills, social problem- solving strategies, and perspective taking strategies.
Individualized goals are developed for each client and family. Therapy sessions are tailored to match these goals, as well as the unique interpersonal and organizational needs of each client. A variety of treatment strategies are used to target these goals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies, the use of structure to promote organization and the development of new skills, social problem- solving strategies, and perspective taking strategies.
Is your child experiencing feelings of sadness or anxiety that have begun to impact everyday life and activities? Is your child stressed about school, avoiding school or having trouble with friendships? Do they struggle with focus and attention to the point that it impacts grades as well as relationships? I can help with identifying and managing strong emotions through the development of new coping tools and strategies. I offer a positive and encouraging space to support my clients in acquiring new skills, adapting to and managing life’s changes and bringing out strengths and abilities.
Is your child experiencing feelings of sadness or anxiety that have begun to impact everyday life and activities? Is your child stressed about school, avoiding school or having trouble with friendships? Do they struggle with focus and attention to the point that it impacts grades as well as relationships? I can help with identifying and managing strong emotions through the development of new coping tools and strategies. I offer a positive and encouraging space to support my clients in acquiring new skills, adapting to and managing life’s changes and bringing out strengths and abilities.
I have helped families with adults and teens with disabilities to solve problems and meet their goals. I am experienced with treating challenging behaviors and teaching critical skills. Some skills I have assisted with: self management, mindfulness, activities of daily living, problem solving, executive functioning, job skills, community safety, and social skills.
I have helped families with adults and teens with disabilities to solve problems and meet their goals. I am experienced with treating challenging behaviors and teaching critical skills. Some skills I have assisted with: self management, mindfulness, activities of daily living, problem solving, executive functioning, job skills, community safety, and social skills.
15 Second Videos
Alif Muhammad
Melissa Amison
Heather R. Holzhauser
Anne P Maxwell
Chicago Center for Psychotherapy, PLLC
Alison Beauvais Carris
I provide psychological services to adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety disorders, and challenges adjusting to transitions or changes in their lives.
I provide psychological services to adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety disorders, and challenges adjusting to transitions or changes in their lives.
Life presents us with many challenges. many of which we can and do handle on our own. However, when we feel overwhelmed or do not have the support we need, we may need a professional therapist. As a psychologist for 23 years, I work with individuals, couples and families to build strong relationships, learn how to manage difficult situations and emotions and to heal from loss. I work to provide a safe and confidiential place for clients, to address current needs and to develop skills and strategies that will help them address future challenges with skill and confidence.
Life presents us with many challenges. many of which we can and do handle on our own. However, when we feel overwhelmed or do not have the support we need, we may need a professional therapist. As a psychologist for 23 years, I work with individuals, couples and families to build strong relationships, learn how to manage difficult situations and emotions and to heal from loss. I work to provide a safe and confidiential place for clients, to address current needs and to develop skills and strategies that will help them address future challenges with skill and confidence.
People often say "Love yourself", but what does that truly mean? How can you do that if you've never experienced self-love before? I am a BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming clinician that wants to see marginalized people love themselves and flourish in their communities. I believe you should not only feel allowed to take up space but thrive in it! My job is to guide you through that process in becoming your best self, on your terms.
People often say "Love yourself", but what does that truly mean? How can you do that if you've never experienced self-love before? I am a BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming clinician that wants to see marginalized people love themselves and flourish in their communities. I believe you should not only feel allowed to take up space but thrive in it! My job is to guide you through that process in becoming your best self, on your terms.
We all have words in our heart that are difficult to speak. Therapy is a great opportunity to bring voice to those words and make sense of their meaning so we can have a greater understanding of who we are and our place in this world. I view therapy as a unique opportunity to know and understand yourself in more profound and meaningful ways so as to allow true clarity, purpose, and healing in everyday life. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and, ultimately, we will work together to bridge your inner emotional life to past and current experiences to then provide a renewed and hopeful understanding of yourself.
We all have words in our heart that are difficult to speak. Therapy is a great opportunity to bring voice to those words and make sense of their meaning so we can have a greater understanding of who we are and our place in this world. I view therapy as a unique opportunity to know and understand yourself in more profound and meaningful ways so as to allow true clarity, purpose, and healing in everyday life. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and, ultimately, we will work together to bridge your inner emotional life to past and current experiences to then provide a renewed and hopeful understanding of yourself.
Chicago Center for Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Ever feel like you're walking a tightrope, trying to balance who you are with what the world expects? It's rough out there for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folk — navigating anxiety, depression, tricky relationships, or just the relentless pressure to conform in a world that doesn't always embrace diversity. If you're exhausted from wearing a mask and need a place to let down your guard and breathe, know that you're not alone in this. The journey to authentic self-expression is filled with challenges, but it's also where you find the deepest connections and truest joys.
Ever feel like you're walking a tightrope, trying to balance who you are with what the world expects? It's rough out there for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folk — navigating anxiety, depression, tricky relationships, or just the relentless pressure to conform in a world that doesn't always embrace diversity. If you're exhausted from wearing a mask and need a place to let down your guard and breathe, know that you're not alone in this. The journey to authentic self-expression is filled with challenges, but it's also where you find the deepest connections and truest joys.
Chandler Ledray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Currently accepting new patients with availability during the day and evenings. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I firmly believe that each child possesses incredible resilience and inner strength, and I strive to foster their self-discovery and empower them to rewrite their stories. I utilize trauma-informed techniques to create a safe space for healing, allowing children to express themselves authentically and develop the skills necessary to navigate life's challenges with resilience.
Currently accepting new patients with availability during the day and evenings. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I firmly believe that each child possesses incredible resilience and inner strength, and I strive to foster their self-discovery and empower them to rewrite their stories. I utilize trauma-informed techniques to create a safe space for healing, allowing children to express themselves authentically and develop the skills necessary to navigate life's challenges with resilience.
Johanna Winter Harper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Would you like to find new patterns of living and loving? Are you or your family struggling to communicate in constructive and loving ways? Have you lost faith and hope that life will ever hold joy and love? Do you struggle with self-criticism and extending compassion to yourself or others? I practice from a systemic, attachment and emotion-focused lens. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity-affirming, and am open to working with individuals of all ages, relationships of all configurations, and families of all varieties.
Would you like to find new patterns of living and loving? Are you or your family struggling to communicate in constructive and loving ways? Have you lost faith and hope that life will ever hold joy and love? Do you struggle with self-criticism and extending compassion to yourself or others? I practice from a systemic, attachment and emotion-focused lens. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity-affirming, and am open to working with individuals of all ages, relationships of all configurations, and families of all varieties.
Dr. Schneider's approach to therapy emphasizes feelings of trust, safety, warmth, and authenticity to encourage his clients as they grow by developing self-knowledge and self-compassion throughout the therapeutic process. He draws from multiple perspectives to help understand and walk with his clients as they integrate their courage, creativity, curiosity, and strengths into their lives. Dr. Schneider’s clients use their strengths to address past memories, process difficult emotions and life experiences, and develop a vision for a hopeful and fulfilling future.
Dr. Schneider's approach to therapy emphasizes feelings of trust, safety, warmth, and authenticity to encourage his clients as they grow by developing self-knowledge and self-compassion throughout the therapeutic process. He draws from multiple perspectives to help understand and walk with his clients as they integrate their courage, creativity, curiosity, and strengths into their lives. Dr. Schneider’s clients use their strengths to address past memories, process difficult emotions and life experiences, and develop a vision for a hopeful and fulfilling future.
We provide individual counseling, parent support, as well as organizational learning opportunities. At our small group practice, we strive to create a safe and collaborative environment in order to empower growth and foster individualized behavior change. You can expect a confidential professionally caring relationship where your religious affiliation, cultural values and gender identity are respected and integrated into treatment, as appropriate. Regardless of ability level, you are afforded the freedoms of everyday life and your human rights are valued. Our therapeutic framework is based in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
We provide individual counseling, parent support, as well as organizational learning opportunities. At our small group practice, we strive to create a safe and collaborative environment in order to empower growth and foster individualized behavior change. You can expect a confidential professionally caring relationship where your religious affiliation, cultural values and gender identity are respected and integrated into treatment, as appropriate. Regardless of ability level, you are afforded the freedoms of everyday life and your human rights are valued. Our therapeutic framework is based in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
See more therapy options for Oak Park
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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.