Empathy and Resilience: Meet Autumn Roorda

Choosing to start therapy is a brave step toward a version of yourself that feels more grounded, clear, and resilient. If you are reading this, you might be navigating a difficult life transition, feeling the weight of past trauma, or looking for ways to better support your family through the unique journey of neurodiversity. I want you to know that wherever you are in your process, you don’t have to walk that path alone.

Hi, I’m Autumn Roorda. At Talk to Heal Counseling Center, I work as a pre-licensed therapist dedicated to creating a space where empathy meets action. My goal is to help you transform your challenges into stepping stones for growth, using a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach that honors your individual story.

My Journey: From Advocacy to the Therapy Room

My path to becoming a therapist wasn't a straight line; it was a journey built on years of observing the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Before I began my Master of Social Work at the University of Georgia, I spent significant time working "in the trenches" of mental health and developmental support.

I’ve served as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), an intake coordinator, and a psychometrist. These roles allowed me to see the world through many different lenses. I saw the daily hurdles families face when navigating an autism diagnosis. I saw the confusion of the intake process and the vulnerability of people seeking answers through psychological testing.

These experiences didn't just teach me about clinical labels; they taught me about people. They taught me that behind every diagnosis is a person with unique strengths and a family doing their absolute best. This background is the foundation of my clinical practice today. It’s why I’m so passionate about supporting families affected by autism and other developmental transitions. I understand the nuances of the system, the exhaustion of the "advocacy fatigue," and the profound joy of every small victory.

A Specialized Focus: Supporting the Autism Community

One of my deepest passions is working with neurodivergent individuals and their families. In our society, we often focus on the "deficits" associated with autism, but in our sessions, I shift the focus to your strengths.

Supporting a family affected by autism requires more than just behavioral strategies; it requires a deep well of empathy for every member of the family unit. I provide a supportive space for:

• Individuals on the Spectrum: To explore their identity, build social confidence, and manage the sensory or emotional overwhelm that can come with living in a world not always designed for them.

• Parents and Caregivers: To process the grief, stress, and unique joys of parenting a neurodivergent child. I offer a place where you don’t have to "put on a brave face."

• Siblings: Who often have their own unique experiences and needs within the family dynamic.

By using a neurodiversity-affirming lens, I help my clients move away from the idea of "fixing" and toward the goal of "flourishing." We work together to build practical coping skills that respect your natural way of being.

My Clinical Philosophy: Trauma-Informed and Strengths-Based

I believe that therapy works best when it is a collaborative partnership. I don't see myself as the "expert" on your life, you are. Instead, I see myself as a guide who brings a specialized toolkit to help you navigate the terrain. My approach is grounded in two primary pillars:

1. Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma isn’t just about major catastrophic events; it can be the result of any experience that overwhelmed your ability to cope. Being trauma-informed means I prioritize your safety and autonomy above all else. I work hard to ensure that our sessions are a "brave space" where you feel empowered to share your story at your own pace. We focus on grounding techniques and emotional regulation to ensure you feel stable as we process the harder parts of your history.

2. A Strengths-Based Perspective

It is so easy to get bogged down by what is "wrong" or what is "broken." My job is to hold a mirror up to what is right with you. Even in your darkest moments, you have developed survival skills and internal resources. We will identify these strengths and figure out how to leverage them to help you heal and grow.

The Tools We’ll Use Together

While the relationship between therapist and client is the most important factor in healing, I also draw from several evidence-based modalities to give you practical, "real-world" tools. Depending on your needs, we might use:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This is all about learning to stop fighting your difficult thoughts and feelings and instead starting to move toward what truly matters to you. It’s about building a life of meaning, even in the presence of pain.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): We look at the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By identifying unhelpful patterns, we can work to reframe your mindset and change how you respond to stress.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): This is fantastic for building emotional regulation and mindfulness skills. It helps you find the balance between accepting yourself as you are and acknowledging the need for change.

• Mindfulness-Based Approaches: I often incorporate mindfulness to help you stay present and grounded. Learning to observe your internal world without judgment is a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and building resilience.

What a Session with Me Feels Like

I know that the idea of sitting across from a stranger and sharing your deepest thoughts can feel intimidating. That’s why I lean into a casual, welcoming, and warm brand of therapy.

In our sessions, you can expect:

• No Judgment: Come as you are. Whether you’re in your work clothes or your favorite hoodie, whether you’re feeling articulate or can’t find the words: you are welcome here.

• Active Listening: I’m not just nodding my head. I am deeply engaged in your story, asking questions that help us gain clarity and perspective.

• Collaboration: We set goals together. I want to make sure the work we are doing feels relevant to your daily life.

• Humor and Humanity: While we deal with serious topics, I believe there is room for laughter and human connection in therapy. It’s all part of the healing process.

Accessibility and Your First Step

I believe that quality mental healthcare should be accessible. As a pre-licensed therapist and MSW intern from the University of Georgia, I am able to offer individual sessions at a lower rate of $60 per session. This allows me to support members of our Johns Creek and greater Georgia community who might otherwise find the cost of private practice therapy a barrier to care.

I also understand that "fit" is everything. You need to feel a connection with your therapist to do the deep work. That’s why I offer a free 15-minute consultation. This is a low-pressure way for us to chat, for you to ask me questions, and for us to see if we’re a good match.

Let’s Build Your Resilience Together

Life is full of transitions, and some are harder than others. Whether you are navigating neurodiversity, healing from the past, or simply trying to find your footing in a stressful world, I am here to support you. You have already shown immense resilience by getting this far. Let’s work together to build the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.

I am located at our Johns Creek office at 11340 Lakefield Drive, Suite 200, but I am also available for online sessions for residents throughout Georgia. Please note: our services are only available to residents of the State of Georgia.

Are you ready to start?

You can learn more about our entire team at Talk to Heal Counseling Center or go ahead and take that first step today.

Book Now or get in touch at 404-369-3838. I look forward to meeting you and walking alongside you on your journey toward healing.