Autism Spectrum Disorder

Navigating a neurotypical world can be daunting; it can feel as though you are the problem or that there is something about you that needs to be fixed. My goal is to help you embrace the prism of Autism, to help you identify your strengths and understand your unique perspective.

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?

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 providing compassionate psychiatric care to individuals with ASD. My personal experience, combined with extensive professional training, gives me a unique understanding of the complex needs of this population. I am dedicated to creating individualized treatment plans that address co-occurring mental health conditions, while considering the distinct challenges and strengths of those with ASD.

Psychotherapy is highly beneficial for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or just a “touch of the ‘tism.” I can help you addresses your emotional, social, and psychological needs by integrating key therapies such as CBT for symptoms of anxiety and depression, Mindfulness for stress reduction, DBT for emotional regulation and expression, and Psychodynamic work to enhance your self-esteem and feelings of connection.

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.

Therapy can offer valuable support for individuals on the autism spectrum. I focus on increasing social intelligence, improving communication, and helping clients build stronger, more meaningful relationships. We also work on understanding emotions and emotional responses in a way that makes sense to you. My goal is to help you navigate the world more confidently and comfortably, while improving overall quality of life through practical skills, self-awareness, and support tailored to your needs.

I work with adults on the autism spectrum, accepting you for who you are. Therapy is about supporting you in a world that doesn’t always make it easy. We’ll work through things like sensory overload and social situations, and help with any stress or struggles that come from those experiences.

I focus on creating a safe space for individuals with autism to express themselves authentically. Using creative techniques and somatic practices, I help clients manage overstimulation, navigate social challenges, and regulate their emotions. With over eight years of experience, I’m committed to understanding each person’s unique experience and offering support tailored to their needs, always honoring their individuality and fostering confidence.

I affirm Autism Spectrum Disorder by providing an empathetic and non-judgmental space with modifications to meet needs. Using strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming methods, I help my clients work through their sensory sensitivities, social dynamics, and self-acceptance. Treating autism as a valid and valuable life experience, I emphasize empowerment, coping strategies, and respect for one's communication styles in honor of growth and wellness.

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 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.

Mandi has worked with trauma patients for over 11 years. She is trained in social cognitive therapy, trauma focused therapy (it is traumatic to live in a world made for neurotypicals), EMDR, and autism informed yoga therapy. All of which are targeted treatments for PTSD and trauma related to autism. Madison also has both personal and professional experience working with this population and takes kind, compassionate, and affirming approach to her care.

For neurodivergent/autistic/ADHD patients, I use a neurodivergence-affirming identity development model rather than a disease/'behavior correction' model. I support people in discovering themselves as authentic neurodivergent people, deprogramming shame and internalized ableism, and developing ways of living that respect their needs, strengths, and cognitive processing style.

I take a strengths based approach with clients on the spectrum, grounded in the belief that autism is not a disease. People on the spectrum merely experience and do life differently. Emotions and physical sensations can be far more intense for people on the spectrum. While this can mean that anxiety and sensory overload can be more disruptive, it also means the capacity for joy in a hobby or the ability to deeply focus on a task can also be more fervent. I help clients harness autism's power.

I have advanced training in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and I use a strengths-based, neurodivergence-affirming lens to understand clients on the autism spectrum.