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Jake Townsend

Utah
Therapist
Manage Medications:
Practice at a Glance
SPECIALTIES
Autism +
Anxiety
Communication
Life Transitions
Intimate Relationships (Marriage/Dating),
Coping Skills
Work Issues
STYLE
Warm
Thoughtfully Challenging
Flexible
Meditative

About

Hello! I’m Jake Townsend, a Marriage and Family Therapist living in the Draper, Utah area, and I’m licensed in Utah and Idaho. I work with individuals, couples, and families, including autistic and neurodivergent adults, who want to feel less anxious, more connected, and more at ease in a world that’s always switched on. I’m passionate about creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel truly heard and never judged. You don’t have to mask or explain yourself perfectly here. My goal is to partner with you in finding practical, realistic next steps that fit who you are.

Education & Licensure
MS in Couple and Family Therapy from University of Nevada, Las Vegas; Bachelors in Family Studies/Human Development emphasis from Brigham Young University
Treatment Approach
What motivated you to specialize in working with autistic adults?

I came to this work because I’ve seen how much easier life gets when people feel understood instead of corrected. Many neurodivergent people spend years trying to fit communication styles and expectations that were never built for how their minds work, which can lead to anxiety, burnout, and distance in the relationships that matter most. I’ve also wrestled with my own phone overuse, so I know how complicated our relationship with technology can be, and I bring that same curiosity and lack of judgment to my clients. I want to help you build a life that feels more balanced, connected, and true to you.

How do you bring a strengths-based, affirming approach to your client work?

I prioritize an affirming, strengths-based approach so that every client feels seen, valued, and empowered. Neurodivergent minds bring real strengths, like deep focus, honesty, creativity, and pattern recognition, and I help clients recognize and build on them rather than trying to act “typical.” I listen closely, validate your experiences, and meet you at a pace that works for you. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and practical communication skills, we’ll focus on what matters most to you and what’s already working.

Practice at a Glance
SPECIALTIES
Autism +
Anxiety
Communication
Life Transitions
Intimate Relationships (Marriage/Dating),
Coping Skills
Work Issues
STYLE
Warm
Thoughtfully Challenging
Flexible
Meditative
Jake Townsend
Utah
Therapist