Autism Spectrum Disorder

I specialize in remote comprehensive adult autism evaluations.

I work with all forms of neurodivergence and support couples and relationships to connect across the neurotypical/neurodivergent communication gap. I am well-versed in ADHD/ADD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, sensory processing issues, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and attachment struggles etc.

I support the identity model of neurodivergence. If you are self-identified, have been diagnosed, or suspect you may be ADHD, HSP, or Autistic, I am here to help you explore your both your gifts and challenges to guide you to finding a greater sense of safety in the world. I also greatly enjoy working with guardians and caretakers of neurodivergent kids and teens to help them better support kids. Please note: I am anti ABA and will not utilize or support the use of ABA.

I am passionate about working with late-diagnosed Autistics and work at the intersection between neurodivergence and trauma. My blended treatment approach includes Gestalt, EMDR, TCTSY and communication skills-building; all of which allow my clients to feel more embodied and accepting of their needs and feelings, and empowered to advocate for themselves.

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.

I help neurodivergent preteens, young adults, and adults understand the way their brain works: how to work with it and not against it. I specialize in executive functioning, sensory-based coping strategies, and routine and habit modification to help my clients participate in their current roles (school, work) and engage in meaningful activities.

I specialize in providing comprehensive adult autism evaluations virtually through telehealth.

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.

My approach? It's assertive, dynamic, and, above all, tailored to you. For individuals with ASD, I create a sanctuary of understanding and acceptance. We work on social communication and behavior in a way that respects your unique way of interacting with the world. With ADHD clients, I focus on harnessing your boundless energy and creativity. For those dealing with complex trauma, I offer a path to healing one step at a time.

I provide neuro-affirming care for anyone who identifies as neurodivergent (for example, autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or OCD neurotypes). This work may focus on personal identity, healing from harmful interventions experienced in childhood, burnout, masking, or relationships, but most importantly we will focus on whatever feels most helpful to you.

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.

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.

My doctoral dissertation studied the affect of parental behaviors that support increasing social motivation in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). As a professional and as a parent of an adult with ASD, I have unique insights into families' daily living and individuals with ASD. I want to support your family goals to achieve success for everyone in the family.

Missed diagnosis, AFAB missed diagnosis, late diagnosis, Autistic self-advocacy, self-acceptance, self-compassion.

Being in a relationship where one partner has autism presents its own distinctive challenges. The neurotypical partner may grapple with understanding and navigating the sensory sensitivities, social communication differences, and specific routines and preferences of their autistic partner. The need for predictability, difficulty with social cues and nonverbal communication, and potential struggles with emotional regulation can occasionally lead to misunderstandings or feelings of disconnect.

One of my specialties is neurodiverse individuals, including those who are, or suspect they might be, Asperger's, ASD-1, (aka an Aspie). There are many folks who were never discovered or diagnosed as a having Asperger's or ASD-1 as a child or teen. They tend to be highly intelligent, often great actors/musicians/artists, have high anxiety (general and social), are perfectionistic, have a hard time with relationships and socializing, & are very sensitive to their environment. Might this be you?

I am an autism affirming therapist.

Having a brain that operates differently isn’t a problem to be solved, it’s an operating system to be learned. Let’s learn together. Recently, more of us have begun to discover that our “talented and gifted” nature as a child was actually highly masked neurodivergence. As we discover who we are, we often discover we aren’t who others think we are. This can be complicated - especially if we struggle with a fear of rejection.

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.

I specialize in autism-focused, neurodiversity affirming therapy for Autistic adults. As a therapist who is also Autistic, I understand your unique challenges. You may experience Autistic burnout, masking overload, meltdowns and shutdowns, anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, and difficulties with work or school performance, among many other concerns. I use a strength-based and compassion-focus mindset in order to help you create an authentic life that works for you!