Laurie Stephens

Dr. Laurie Stephens, a developmental psychologist, has worked with autistic individuals for over 30 years, providing neurodivergent affirming psychotherapy to client of all ages. As Senior Director of Autism Programs at The Help Group, she oversees autism-related programs, including Young Learners Preschool, Kaleidoscope for LGBTQIA+ neurodivergent individuals and the Training Department. Previously, she was Director of Clinical Services at Education Spectrum for 12 years.

Dr. Stephens earned her BA from UC San Diego and her Ph.D. from SUNY Stony Brook, where she co-founded the Early Diagnosis Center for Autism and was a founding member of The Cody Center for Autism. Dr. Stephens has taught autism-focused courses for special ed teachers at UCLA Extension and work-readiness skills at Exceptional Minds, a post-secondary school for young adults with ASD.