Johanna Banks, MSW, LCSW

Born with Cerebral Palsy, I have a deeply personal understanding of the challenges that individuals with disabilities and their families may face. My lived experience has fueled a lifelong passion for empowering children, adolescents, and adults with developmental differences to achieve greater independence, confidence, and quality of life. While Cerebral Palsy affected the strength and development of the left side of my body, it has also shaped my perspective, resilience, and commitment to advocacy, education, and person-centered support.

I earned my Master's degree from Adelphi University and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). In 2008, I joined the Charlotte TEACCH Center as a Psychoeducational Therapist, where I developed extensive expertise in the evidence-based TEACCH approach to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

Following my time with TEACCH, I remained dedicated to the autism community, developing the Behavioral Health Program at Pediatric Advanced Therapy (P.A.T.) in Mooresville, North Carolina. In 2017, I founded Autism Consulting of the Carolinas to provide individualized consultation, parent education, and direct support services for autistic individuals across the lifespan.

Today, my primary focus is helping autistic young adults successfully transition into adulthood. I work with individuals to develop independent living skills, self-advocacy, self-confidence, employment readiness, and practical real-world skills that promote long-term success and meaningful independence. In addition to individualized services, I facilitate a monthly dinner club that provides opportunities for social connection, community engagement, and the development of interpersonal skills in a supportive environment.

I am also developing a life skills academy for young adults on the autism spectrum, built around the philosophy of Foundations for Independent Living Through Real-Life Practice. The academy is designed to provide comprehensive instruction in independent living, employment readiness, community participation, and social engagement through meaningful, hands-on experiences that promote lasting skill development.