Autism therapists in Hickory, North Carolina NC
Find experienced Autism therapists in Hickory who provide Autism testing, evaluations, and therapy. Our directory features detailed therapist profiles so you can compare qualifications, specialties, and treatment approaches to find the provider that’s right for you.
Autism and Asperger's
Dr. Justin D'Arienzo
Psychologist, Psy.D., ABPP
We offer Autism testing and cognitive behavioral interventions for Autism. Find out more about our school psychologist, Nicole Hoelz at https://www.drdarienzo.com/school-psychologist/
Online in Hickory, NC North Carolina
Autism and Asperger's
Dr. Elizabeth Coldren
Psychologist, PSYD, PSYPACT
Many of the adults I work with are thoughtful, capable professionals and students, often in detail‑oriented or technical roles, who have spent years feeling “different” without having language for why. You may be wondering if you are autistic, have a recent diagnosis, or have known for a long time but never had support in making sense of it. From the outside, you may meet or exceed expectations and keep up with work or school. Inside, it can feel like constant effort: managing sensory overload, masking to fit in, replaying conversations, or needing significant time alone to recover from social or emotional strain.
Many adults I see describe a lifelong sense of being out of step with others, feeling misunderstood, or being told they are “too sensitive,” “too intense,” or “too much.” You may have built a life that works on paper but still feels exhausting to maintain. Masking, perfectionism, and trying to meet unspoken social rules can take a real toll on your nervous system and sense of self.
In our work, we approach autism and other forms of neurodivergence through a neurodiversity‑affirming, trauma‑informed lens. We look at how your brain and body naturally process the world, how past experiences have shaped your coping strategies, and what helps you feel more regulated and authentic. The focus is not on changing who you are, but on understanding your wiring, reducing the internal cost of masking, and creating a life that supports your nervous system rather than straining it. This is core to my practice, and it’s work I care about deeply.
26 Years Experience
Online in Hickory, NC North Carolina
Autism and Asperger's
First-Aid Counseling, PLLC
Counselor/Therapist, LCMHC, LCASA, LCSW
We provide affirming and supportive therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and Asperger’s traits, as well as their families. Our approach focuses on building self-understanding, strengthening communication and social skills, managing emotions, and celebrating each person’s unique strengths.
3 Years Experience
Online in Hickory, NC North Carolina (Online Only)
Autism and Asperger's
Nour Counseling
Counselor/Therapist
Autism is often misunderstood—especially in adults, and especially in people who have spent years adapting, masking, or being told they’re “too much” or “not enough” at the same time. Many of our clients come in feeling exhausted from trying to navigate social expectations, sensory overwhelm, communication differences, or environments that don’t take their needs into account. At Nour Counseling, we approach autism through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, recognizing that your brain is not the problem—the mismatch between you and your environment often is.
We offer comprehensive autism assessments that result in a detailed report with clear findings and individualized recommendations, including accommodations when appropriate. In therapy, we work with you to better understand your sensory profile, communication style, routines, and capacity—so you can build a life that actually supports you. This might include setting boundaries, reducing burnout, navigating relationships more authentically, or unlearning the pressure to constantly mask. We also name the cultural and systemic factors that shape how autism is perceived and supported, so you’re not left carrying that context alone. Our goal is to help you move through the world with more clarity, self-understanding, and permission to exist as you are.
9 Years Experience
Online in Hickory, NC North Carolina (Online Only)
Autism and Asperger's
Debra Zand
Psychologist, Ph.D.
I provide a neuro-affirming space for teens and adults to explore their identity, unpack the effects of masking, manage burnout, and develop sustainable routines. Whether you are seeking a late-in-life diagnosis, support for neuro-divergent relationships, or coping strategies for sensory overload, I am here to help you live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
26 Years Experience
Online in Hickory, NC North Carolina
Autism therapists in Hickory, North Carolina Statistics
Autism therapists in Hickory, North Carolina average 16 years of experience and charge around $210 per session. 100% offer online sessions. The top treatment approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (68%), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) (47%), and Behavioral Therapy (36%).
Average years in practice
16 Years Experience
Average cost per session
$210
Accept insurance
32%
Offer sliding scale
36%
Gender ID
| 52% |
Female |
|
| 30% |
Male |
|
| 9% |
Non-Binary |
|
| 9% |
Gender Fluid |
|
Session Type
| 60% |
In Person and Online |
|
| 40% |
Online Only |
|
Top Treatment Approaches
| 68% | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) |
| 47% | Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) |
| 36% | Behavioral Therapy |
| 34% | Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) |
| 34% | Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) |
| 32% | Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) |
| 30% | Multicultural Therapy |
Ages Served
| 89% | Adult |
| 74% | Young Adult |
| 64% | Teen |
| 47% | Senior |
| 40% | Children |
Client Focus
| 64% | Women |
| 60% | LGBTQ+ |
| 49% | Men |
| 45% | Persons with Disabilities |
| 38% | Military / Veterans |