Autism therapists in Lemay, Missouri MO
Autism and Asperger's
Alicia Polk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, BC-TMH, CCTP-II
While I am not autistic, two of the four of us in my family are. And I have worked with many autistic clients. As with ADHD, autism is only a "disorder"in the context of our culture. Autistic brains are structured slightly differently and function slightly differently. When autistic people are measured by neurotypical standards, it's no surprise they appear "disordered." The same happens to neurotypicals when you measure them by autistic standards. My role is one of support and education. I will help you understand how your brain works (as opposed to the neurotypical brain) and to identify the strengths you have as a result of the way your brain works. I will help you develop strategies to help with challenges you are dealing with and other potential issues such as emotional regulation.
I will help you with unmasking, emotional regulation challenges,
7 Years Experience
Autism and Asperger's
Dr. Alexavery Hawkins
Psychologist, PhD
As an autistic provider, I enjoy working with clients within this community and collaborating with them to find ways to have a more joy-filled and enriching life and increased their sense of wellness. I take a strengths-based, affirming approach with neurodiversity, offering quality care that will see and value client's unique traits, identities, values, and lived experiences.
11 Years Experience
Autism and Asperger's
Dr. Nicole Parkes
Psychologist, PsyD
I embrace the unique world of individuals with Autism and Asperger's with profound empathy and respect. My approach is rooted in understanding the distinct experiences and perspectives that come with these conditions. Through a blend of specialized therapies and compassionate support, I strive to connect deeply with each person, helping them to navigate their social and emotional landscapes. It's a journey of celebrating their unique strengths, fostering self-acceptance, and empowering them to find their own voice in a world that often overlooks the beauty in difference. Together, we uncover pathways to meaningful connections, self-discovery, and a sense of belonging.
8 Years Experience
Autism and Asperger's
Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment
Psychologist, Ph.D.
UCEBT offers assessments examining Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for individuals age 2 through adulthood.
This may be a component of a psychoeducational evaluation if you suspect your child has ASD and that it may be impacting academic functioning. However, not all individuals with ASD struggle academically, and ASD is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts more areas in life than academics. Furthermore, many adults may have questions about whether they have had undiagnosed ASD, which can be common for some high-functioning presentations.
Autism evaluations examine whether an individual meets criteria for ASD using evidence-based procedures, and also examines common rule-outs/co-occurring disorders such as ADHD, social anxiety, and/or OCD. Academic achievement measures may or may not be included, depending on individual needs.
Our autism testing is not exclusively for children.
ADHD and ASD can be diagnosed in adulthood. Many adults may be experiencing chronic difficulties with meeting job expectations, organizing tasks, completing household chores, engaging in daily living activities, remembering obligations, and forming/maintaining healthy relationships. Often adult clients come to us with prior diagnoses of mood, anxiety, or personality problems, and are frustrated that previous treatments have been unsuccessful in helping them meet their goals.
Through assessment, we can determine whether there may be evidence for a missed ADHD or Autism diagnosis that accounts for pervasive lifelong problems.
We use evidence-based methodologies to examine relevant cognitive processes, behaviors, and social/emotional symptoms tailored to how neurodevelopmental disorders present in adults. However, it is also important to note that criteria for ADHD and ASD state that symptoms need to be present in childhood, even if they were mild and perhaps not as apparent until the demands of the environment exceeded individual capacities. Therefore, we also require parent/caregiver interviews, previous testing, and/or school records from childhood as part of the evaluation for adults.
We have several ways to ensure our clients are receiving the highest quality assessment and testing experience.
Autism Evaluations at UCEBT are led by our Assessment & Testing Program Director, Laura Rowley, PhD.
Our team of clinicians assesses a wide range of referral questions and keeps a consistent flow to keep our skills sharp. To build on our skills, we consult with each other -- no one conceptualizes alone, making sure everything is grounded in data and that we’re not relying too heavily on one person’s clinical judgment.
We’re lucky to be a diverse group of clinicians regarding our backgrounds and specialty areas of testing. In addition, we seek consultation from clinicians in the community, research new testing measures, and find developing evidence-based methods for assessing specific populations. It is important to us that we stay up to date with research and the collective wisdom of the profession.
Using the "gold standard" of autism assessments.
We use the latest in evaluation measurements, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) to assess and aid in autism diagnosis. Often to access services (e.g. speech, occupational therapy, ABA), insurance companies require the use on an ADOS-2 for diagnosis. The ADOS-2 is one component of a comprehensive evaluation. Our clinicians use a variety of measures and obtain sources of information from different settings to provide evidence-based psychological assessment.
Stay at UCEBT for treatment or receive treatment elsewhere.
Testing is a standalone service offered at UCEBT. However, if you are interested in seeking therapy services, we can refer you to the appropriate treatment team. You would not have to complete an initial intake and would be placed at the top of the list to be scheduled with an available clinician that is trained and experienced in the best evidence-based treatment for you.
11 Years Experience
Autism and Asperger's
Dr. Heather Lampton
Psychologist, PsyD
Living with Asperger's brings its challenges, but you're not alone. I provide personalized support for individuals and families navigating this condition. Together, we'll work on practical strategies to harness strengths, address difficulties, and build meaningful connections. Reach out today to start your journey towards empowerment and understanding.
22 Years Experience