AUTISM COUNSELING AND EVALUATION IN LAFAYETTE, LA
Supportive care and accurate diagnosis for children and adults
At Aucoin & Associates Psychology Practice in Lafayette, Louisiana, we provide supportive therapy and diagnostic evaluations for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our goal is to offer insight, strategies, and personalized care for those navigating life on the spectrum—without judgment, stigma, or one-size-fits-all solutions.
We proudly serve families and individuals throughout Lafayette and the greater Acadiana region with both in-person and virtual services.
What We Offer
While we do not provide ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), we offer strength-based, individualized therapeutic services tailored to the needs of each client. Our experienced clinicians support both children and adults with autism in managing challenges such as:
- Emotional regulation
- Social communication skills
- Anxiety and sensory overwhelm
- Executive functioning and transitions
- School, work, or relationship difficulties
Our services include:
- Autism evaluations for children, teens, and adults
- Individual therapy for autistic clients
- Parent consultation and family support
Autism Evaluations in Lafayette and Acadiana
We conduct comprehensive autism evaluations using a variety of tools and clinical interviews. Our assessments are designed to:
- Accurately diagnose autism in both children and adults
- Differentiate autism from other neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions
- Identify areas of strength and areas for support
- Provide a roadmap for therapeutic or educational accommodations
Many clients in the Acadiana area seek autism evaluations for clarity on developmental, behavioral, or social differences, whether for themselves or their child. Our reports can also be used for school accommodations, IEPs, or workplace support when applicable.
Counseling for Autistic Children and Adults
Therapy for individuals with autism is not about changing who someone is; it’s about supporting their well-being. We focus on goals that are meaningful to the individual, which might include:
- Managing anxiety or sensory challenges
- Navigating social or communication stressors
- Building coping tools for change and uncertainty
- Enhancing confidence, autonomy, and quality of life
We meet our clients where they are and celebrate the diversity of neurodivergent experiences.
Autism in Women and Girls: Often Missed, Uniquely Experienced
Autism in women and girls often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because it can present differently than in boys. Many women on the spectrum become skilled at “masking” their social difficulties or anxiety by mimicking peers or internalizing stress. This can lead to feelings of exhaustion, identity confusion, or being misunderstood. Common experiences include:
- Heightened sensory sensitivity
- Difficulty managing unspoken social rules
- Deep special interests often perceived as “normal” passions
- Persistent anxiety or perfectionism
- Being mislabeled with other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder
Our team is trained to recognize the nuances of autism in girls and women and provides affirming, empowering care that supports self-understanding and well-being across the lifespan.
Want to better understand how autism presents in different age groups? Visit our Understanding Autism page for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between autism therapy and ABA?
Unlike ABA, which focuses on behavior modification, our therapy is affirming, strengths-based, and focused on emotional well-being, life skills, and self-understanding.
Can I do therapy virtually?
Yes! We offer virtual therapy and autism evaluations for clients across Lafayette and surrounding Acadiana communities.
Can you refer me to ABA or additional services if needed?
Yes. While we don’t provide ABA, we can write referrals or recommendations to trusted providers in the region