Autism Therapy Support in St. Louis | Enlitens
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My Experience Speaks for Me
I’ve been a Board-Certified Counselor for over four years, with a Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Webster University. My work has been all about understanding the brain, especially within the neurodiverse community. Right now, I’m taking it even further by pursuing a doctorate in Behavioral Neuroscience.
But let’s get real—degrees are only part of the story. With nearly 14 years of hands-on experience, combined with my own neurodiverse lived experience, I’ve gained a deep understanding of what truly helps. I began my mental health journey supporting kids and families in the Autistic community, both one-on-one and in group settings. That’s where I discovered my passion for helping people embrace their uniqueness, rather than trying to fit into neurotypical molds.
This led me to career counseling, focusing on empowering Autistic individuals to thrive in their professional lives. As I transitioned into my role as a therapist, my focus remained on neurodiversity and trauma. During the height of COVID-19, I worked in ERs, providing crisis support across diverse populations, including those in neurodiverse communities. I don’t just know the theory—I’ve lived it.
If you’re looking for someone who understands, who’s been there, and who’s ready to help you move forward, I’m here. Together, we can make the changes that truly matter to you.
Learn more about using insurance for therapy in St. Louis or see our sliding scale counseling fees for affordable therapy options.
What to Expect in Autism Therapy: A Personalized Approach
Navigating a world that doesn’t always understand your unique perspective can be exhausting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Enlitens Counseling in St. Louis, my focus is on embracing your individual strengths and creating a space where you feel completely understood. Autism therapy with me is all about YOU—your experiences, your needs, and your path forward.
Here’s what you can expect from our personalized autism therapy sessions:
- Understanding Your Unique Perspective: We’ll start by exploring what makes you, you. That means diving into your communication style, sensory preferences, and social needs. For instance, like my client Rachel, who struggled with sensory overload at her workplace, we’ll work together to develop practical strategies so you can manage these triggers confidently and feel more at ease, whether at work, school, or home.
- Building Communication Skills: Communication is so much more than just speaking. It’s about finding the right ways to express yourself that feel natural. We’ll work on both verbal and non-verbal communication skills to help you feel more empowered when connecting with others. My client Alex, for example, found that learning new non-verbal cues in social settings made him feel more understood and comfortable around friends.
- Navigating Social Situations Confidently: Social interactions can feel intimidating, but together, we’ll develop tools to help you navigate these situations with ease. We’ll work on things like recognizing social cues and building stronger connections. Just like with my client Jamie, who initially felt anxious in group settings but now uses tools we developed to confidently engage in conversations, you’ll gain the skills you need to foster meaningful relationships.
- Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment: Whether it’s loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures, managing sensory sensitivities is a big part of making daily life more comfortable. We’ll work on calming strategies and advocating for your sensory needs. Just like Sam, who now uses noise-canceling headphones and a relaxation technique we developed, you’ll create a more comfortable environment that works for you.
- Empowering You to Find Your Voice: Self-advocacy is key. Together, we’ll work on helping you express your needs with confidence, ensuring that your voice is always heard. Like my client Clara, who learned to effectively communicate her preferences at work and home, you’ll gain the tools to advocate for yourself in all areas of your life, making sure your needs are met with respect and understanding.
At Enlitens Counseling, I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Together, we’ll celebrate your individuality, foster independence, and empower you to thrive in a life that feels truly yours.
If you’re curious to learn more about how therapy can support you or your loved ones with autism, check out these helpful resources: WebMD’s Guide to Autism Therapies and Stanford Children’s Family Support for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Ready to begin your personalized autism therapy journey? Contact me at Enlitens Counseling today and let’s create a space where you can thrive in your most authentic self.
Quality Counseling That Fits Your budget in St. Louis.
Affordable Therapy That Works for You
I truly believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care, no matter your financial situation. That’s why I offer sliding scale therapy, making sure that you can focus on feeling better without the added stress of high costs. My sessions range from $50 to $100 per session, which means that you can get the support you need without breaking the bank.
How Does My Sliding Scale Work?
I understand that everyone’s situation is different. That’s why my sliding scale isn’t just based on your household income; I also consider any unique circumstances that might affect your ability to pay. Whether you’re managing ADHD, dealing with anxiety, or just need someone to talk to, I’ve structured my pricing to be fair and flexible. It’s all about keeping your well-being front and center.
Why I Offer a Sliding Scale
Mental health support should never feel out of reach because of financial concerns. I’ve designed my sliding scale to be as accessible as possible, because I want you to focus on healing, not on whether you can afford therapy. Everyone deserves to feel better, and I’m here to make that happen, one session at a time.
What You Can Expect
When you choose to work with me, you’re choosing a space where you’re valued—not just for your struggles, but for your strengths too. My goal is to make therapy fit your life, whether you come to my cozy office in St. Louis or we meet virtually from anywhere in Missouri. Learn more about how my sliding scale works and how I can help you find the right fit here.
Get Started Today
Making Therapy Easy with Insurance Options
I totally get it—finding a therapist who not only accepts your insurance but also has availability can feel like a big hurdle. That’s why I’m here to make things as smooth and stress-free as possible for my St. Louis community. My goal is to provide affordable mental health support that fits seamlessly into your life and budget, so you can focus on getting the care you deserve without the extra worry.
Insurance Plans I Accept
To help keep therapy accessible, I’m proud to accept a variety of insurance providers, including:
Don’t see your insurance provider listed? No worries! Just give me a call or text at 314-246-0480, and I’ll personally help you verify your benefits. I’m here to make sure you get the support you need, without the added stress of navigating insurance alone.
I Handle the Paperwork So You Don’t Have To
Whether you’re starting ADHD therapy, working through anxiety, or seeking autism support, I’m here to guide you through the entire process. You won’t have to worry about the details—I’ll handle all the insurance paperwork, so you can focus on what really matters: your well-being.
Beyond the Label: Embracing Your Uniqueness
Autism isn’t just a diagnosis—it’s a way of being that shapes how you see, experience, and interact with the world. At Enlitens Counseling in St. Louis, I believe that neurodiversity is not just common—it’s something to celebrate. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been on this journey for years, we focus on your unique strengths and help you embrace every part of what makes you, YOU.
You’ve probably heard that autism exists on a spectrum, but it’s important to understand that it’s not a straight line. It’s more like a colorful pie chart, with different areas—like social interaction, communication, and sensory experiences—impacting each person differently. That’s why no two people’s experiences with autism are exactly alike, and therapy should reflect that uniqueness.
For example, one of my clients, Sarah, came to me feeling overwhelmed in social situations. The noise, the expectations, the constant processing—it all felt like too much. Through our work together, we focused on developing calming strategies, like identifying quiet spaces and learning to set boundaries, so she could engage socially when she felt ready, without feeling drained. Now, Sarah feels more confident navigating social settings in her own way.
In therapy, we’ll explore your experiences with autism and develop a plan that’s tailored specifically for you. Here’s what that can look like:
- Understanding Your Spectrum: We’ll take a deep dive into your specific experiences with autism. Whether it’s sensory overload, communication challenges, or navigating social expectations, we’ll identify how these aspects of your neurodiversity impact your daily life. Like Alex, who struggled with bright lights and loud sounds at work, we’ll create personalized strategies to manage those environments so you can thrive.
- Building Emotional and Social Confidence: Emotional regulation can be tricky, and social interactions might feel like a puzzle at times. Together, we’ll work on identifying emotions and understanding social cues so that you feel more in control in different situations. Just like my client Jamie, who found social gatherings overwhelming, we’ll develop tools that help you feel more at ease while building meaningful connections.
- Celebrating Neurodiversity: Neurodiversity is not something that needs to be “fixed.” It’s a reflection of the beautifully diverse ways our brains work. Therapy is about helping you embrace your neurodiversity and feel confident in your own skin. My goal is for you to feel empowered to express yourself fully, as I’ve seen with many clients who’ve shifted from self-doubt to self-celebration after embracing their unique strengths.
- Navigating Sensory Experiences: From managing sensory overload to finding comfort in overstimulating environments, we’ll work together to create strategies that help you manage the world around you. Like Sam, who learned to communicate his need for quiet spaces at school, we’ll work on advocating for your sensory needs so you can feel more comfortable and in control of your surroundings.
Neurodiversity is far more common than people realize, and our experiences—particularly in emotional and social support—play a huge role in how much your neurodiversity impacts your day-to-day life. Therapy gives you the space to understand, adapt, and embrace all the facets of your unique brain. And I’m here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to explore how your neurodiversity can be a source of strength, reach out to me at Enlitens Counseling in St. Louis. Together, we’ll create a personalized path that honors your individuality and helps you thrive in a world that’s learning to see the beauty in neurodiversity.
For more insights on autism and how it can impact different areas of your life, check out these helpful resources: WebMD’s Guide to Autism Therapies and Family Support for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Curious About Autism Therapy? We've got you covered
At what age can autism therapy begin?
Autism therapy can begin as early as infancy or toddlerhood. Early intervention is crucial for maximizing development and providing support at a critical stage.
What are the signs that my child might benefit from autism therapy?
If you notice your child struggling with social interaction, communication, repetitive behaviors, or sensory sensitivities, it’s worth seeking an evaluation to determine if autism therapy could be beneficial.
What types of therapy are used for autism?
Common therapies include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, social skills training, and sensory integration therapy. The specific approach will depend on your child’s individual needs and goals.
How can therapy help adults with autism?
Therapy can help adults with autism improve their communication and social skills, manage anxiety or depression, develop independent living skills, and navigate the challenges of adulthood.
How can I find an autism therapist who is a good fit for my child or myself?
Look for a therapist with experience and expertise in autism spectrum disorders. It’s important to find someone who understands your or your child’s unique needs and creates a comfortable and supportive environment.
How can I support my child with autism at home?
Creating a structured and predictable environment, using visual aids, and providing positive reinforcement can be helpful strategies for supporting your child at home.
What is the role of the family in autism therapy?
Family involvement is crucial in autism therapy. Therapists often work closely with families to provide education, support, and guidance on how to implement strategies at home.
Can therapy help with sensory sensitivities?
Yes, therapy can address sensory sensitivities by helping individuals understand their sensory needs, develop coping mechanisms, and create sensory-friendly environments.
How can therapy help with social skills and communication?
Therapy can provide opportunities to practice social skills, learn communication strategies, and develop meaningful relationships with others.
What are some common challenges faced by individuals with autism?
Common challenges include difficulty with social communication, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulty with transitions or changes in routine.
How can I help my child with autism develop self-advocacy skills?
Encouraging your child to express their needs and preferences, teaching them how to ask for help, and providing opportunities for them to make choices can all help foster self-advocacy skills.