Jessica Edwards, MS, LPC-Associate

Supervisor: Deisy Ybarra, M.A., LPC-S, RPT-S

Therapist | ADHD & Autism Focused

About Me

Hi, I’m Jessica—a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who gets ADHD, Autism, and trauma from lived experience.

If you or your child:

Feel overwhelmed by sensory input or emotional dysregulation
Struggle with focus, routines, or social connections in a world not built for your brain
Carry trauma that makes daily life feel harder than it should

I want you to know: Your challenges are real, and your unique way of processing the world is valid.

As someone with ADHD navigating a neurotypical world, I’ve experienced both the struggles and strengths of neurodivergence firsthand. This fuels my passion for helping clients:
✓Work with your neurotype - channel traits like creativity and hyperfocus where they serve you best
✓ Heal trauma without masking your true self
✓ Build systems that actually work for your brain

Why I Specialize in Neurodiversity & Trauma

I don’t just treat these areas—I champion them because:

I know how generic therapy fails neurodivergent folks (forced eye contact, "just try harder" advice)
AutPlay Therapy transformed my clients who were labeled "unreachable"
Every brain deserves care that honors its wiring

Who Thrives in My Care

I work best with children, teens, and adults who:
• Suspect or have ADHD/Autism diagnoses
• Need trauma care that respects sensory needs
• Want to unmask safely
• Are tired of coping alone

Investment Per Session:

$100.00

My Approach To Therapy

Licensed therapist providing OCD and anxiety counseling at Layers Counseling Specialists office in Plano, Texas

I utilize AutPlay Therapy, DBT skills, Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), strength-based interventions tailored for ADHD, Autism, and trauma recovery. My approach goes beyond traditional therapy by incorporating sensory-friendly adaptations (like movement breaks and reduced eye contact) and leveraging clients' unique strengths (hyperfocus, special interests, pattern recognition). I create personalized roadmaps that honor neurodivergent brains: first, we'll identify sensory/emotional triggers; then, develop coping tools that actually work for your wiring; finally, build confidence to thrive in a neurotypical world.

What Makes Our Sessions Different
You'll leave each session with practical strategies - whether it's a TF-CBT coping skill woven into your favorite video game, or an ADHD-friendly organizational system using your special interests. Many clients tell me, "This is the first time therapy hasn't felt forced" because I:

Follow your pace (no pushing to talk before you're ready)
Incorporate interests (Minecraft social navigation training? Yes!)
Respect bodily autonomy (no forced eye contact/hugs).

My goal? To help you or your child feel competent, regulated, and proudly authentic.

My Specialties & Modalities

Credentials & Specialized Training

Licensure & Education
• Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (Texas, supervised by Deisy Ybarra, LPC-S, RPT-S)
• Master of Science in Counseling – University of North Texas (CACREP-Accredited, 2024)

Advanced Certifications
• Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) Certified – National Therapist Certification Program (2024)
• Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider - Official AutPlay Therapy Organization (2025)

Professional Leadership
• Guest Speaker at mental health practices in the DFW area on ADHD/Autism-affirming care
• Clinical Presenter for parents of neurodiverse children on ADHD/Autism-affirming care.

Commitment to Excellence
I complete 60+ hours/year in specialized trainings focused on:
✓ Neurodiversity-Affirming Interventions (sensory integration, social communication supports)
✓ Developmental Trauma (attachment-focused TF-CBT, nervous system regulation)
✓ Parent Coaching Strategies for neurodivergent families

More Than Just Your Therapist

When I’m not in sessions, you’ll probably find me gaming (Stardew Valley for cozy vibes, Skyrim for epic escapes), debating the best horror films (yes, Hereditary messed me up too), or rewatching Howl’s Moving Castle for the 100th time. My gym routine keeps me grounded—though I’ll never say no to a snack break with a fantasy novel in hand. Clients tell me they appreciate how ‘Jessica doesn’t just nod—she gets the weird, wonderful, and sometimes dark corners of your brain.’ My love of horror and fantasy means I’m never fazed by ‘taboo’ thoughts, and my approach blends real talk with geeky enthusiasm. Think of me as your therapist-meets-cheerleader: challenging when you need it, but always meeting you where you are—whether that’s a Legally Blonde mood or a Demon Slayer marathon kind of day.