Starobin Counseling offers Parents Together support groups for parents of autistic children, adolescents, and young adults. These groups are for parents who desire to gain knowledge and understanding of autism spectrum disorders, to learn about resources for families, and to gain emotional support for the challenges and celebrations of raising a family with children, adolescents, and young adults on the spectrum.
Hosted by Caron Starobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Olney, MD 20832
We have expertise in autism; anxiety; depression; trauma; family conflict; parenting, sibling and peer relationship challenges; sexual issues; self harm; OCD; disordered eating; relationship challenges; and neurodiversity-affirming couples therapy
Starobin Counseling collectively offers over 30 years of experience providing counseling for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We regard relationships as central to the therapeutic process and help people repair and strengthen their relationships. Some challenges in life are purely personal, but most problems express themselves in the intersections with other people. Therapy helps people understand feelings, listen to their best thinking, and helps people gain new or alternative perspectives. We help people strengthen their own vitality and repair difficult ruptures to unlock their capacity for meaningful connections.
Topics may include: Processing shared struggles and experiences as a neurodivergent person navigating a world set up for neurotypical individuals, Masking and identifying safe spaces to unmask, Sharing interests, Brainstorming ways to address competing needs in interpersonal relationships
I work with adolescents and adults (ages 12+) with various presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (ADHD and/or autism), women’s health, self-esteem challenges, and sports related topics.
I have training and experience working from a neurodiversity affirming lens and providing support to ADHDer and autistic adolescents and adults. As a former competitive swimmer, summer swim coach, and competitive club coach in the area, I recognize the unique environment of competitive sports and athletics and enjoy supporting athletes in the therapy room.
Having a sibling on the spectrum is a unique experience. Children and adolescents joining this group will be part of a collective that shares similar experiences and challenges. Siblings Together offers a supportive and therapeutic space for neurotypical children and adolescents who have siblings living on the autism spectrum. (This is a virtual program).
Hosted by Caron Starobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Olney, MD 20832
We have expertise in autism; anxiety; depression; trauma; family conflict; parenting, sibling and peer relationship challenges; sexual issues; self harm; OCD; disordered eating; relationship challenges; and neurodiversity-affirming couples therapy
Starobin Counseling collectively offers over 30 years of experience providing counseling for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We regard relationships as central to the therapeutic process and help people repair and strengthen their relationships. Some challenges in life are purely personal, but most problems express themselves in the intersections with other people. Therapy helps people understand feelings, listen to their best thinking, and helps people gain new or alternative perspectives. We help people strengthen their own vitality and repair difficult ruptures to unlock their capacity for meaningful connections.
The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is world-renowned for providing evidence-based social skills treatment to preschoolers, adolescents, and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and other socio-emotional problems.
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions or unhelpful thoughts? Are you seeking realistic solutions to life’s challenges or working toward greater acceptance in difficult circumstances? Therapy can help you gain clarity, emotional awareness, and the tools needed for meaningful change. Together, we’ll work collaboratively to meet you where you are and support you on your journey. By working with me, you’ll gain a better understanding of your emotions and thoughts while learning strategies to navigate life with confidence.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, silent, or overwhelmed in social situations, you’re not alone. This group is a welcoming space for teens and young adults who want to build confidence, find their voice, and feel more comfortable being themselves around others. Together, we'll practice social skills, work through fears, and learn ways to handle anxiety in a safe, supportive environment. Growth happens step by step — and you don’t have to do it alone.
Have past experiences made it painful to trust and accept the care you need? Have trauma, fear, and doubt prevented you from being the person you hope to be? The pain of feeling deeply misunderstood can be haunting. You are finally ready to feel some relief because, deep down, you know that you have so much more to offer the world. I want you to know that you are allowed to feel important and valuable– to have your authentic self welcomed and cherished. It's time to take a chance on yourself, test the waters, and become the person you want to be.
Struggling with social anxiety or selective mutism can feel isolating, but meaningful change is possible. This group is designed for adults who want to develop greater ease and authenticity in social interactions. Through structured support, coping strategies, and gentle practice, you’ll learn to manage anxiety, build confidence, and reconnect with your true self in social spaces. Wherever you’re starting from, you’re welcome here.
Have past experiences made it painful to trust and accept the care you need? Have trauma, fear, and doubt prevented you from being the person you hope to be? The pain of feeling deeply misunderstood can be haunting. You are finally ready to feel some relief because, deep down, you know that you have so much more to offer the world. I want you to know that you are allowed to feel important and valuable– to have your authentic self welcomed and cherished. It's time to take a chance on yourself, test the waters, and become the person you want to be.
This group is a social skills group for teens who are interested in learning how to make and keep friends. This group incorporates interventions from the PEERS program and the Science of Making Friends. This group is a great fit for those with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and other socioemotional difficulties. During group teens learn important social skills through didactic and role play examples and are given the opportunity to practice these skills in session.
Hosted by Heather McMullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
It is my passion to collaborate with and empower others to not just survive through life but to find a way to living fully and thriving. I work to be an ally in achieving your goals and your desires. Finding a way to enjoy and be confident in your career and job experience, creative outlets, and social life can really happen.
This on-line autism affinity and support group offers connection, psychoeducation, and neuroaffirmating support for late in life identified Autistic women and non-binary individuals. A young adult option is offered as well. Newly identified people have a unique experience of processing their life through a new lens and transitioning sense of self. Topics of exploration include identity, sensory stimulation, emotional regulation, executive function, masking, burnout, disclosure, self-acceptance and compassion. This 12-week online group, offers a safe and empathic setting to promote authentic understanding of oneself and a collective sense of belonging. Consultations are complimentary. I look forward to hearing from you!
Hosted by Sondra Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Finding a therapist who understands your unique experience is essential. My style is welcoming, empathic, goal-focused, and interactive. With a warm and supportive approach allowing clients to speak openly, we'll identify your challenges, develop personal goals, find methods to cope with overwhelming emotions, and define practical strategies to work through obstacles. My approach is to understand and tailor my practice to what works best for you. We are on this journey together, and I'm humbled by the people I work with and the trust they have placed in me.
TLC's Interaction Group is for young children ages 2 ½ - 5 and is based on the Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-Based (DIR) model, focused on developing and improving communication, social interaction and sensory motor skills. The DIR model provides a developmental framework for interdisciplinary assessment and intervention for autism and other developmental and mental health challenges. Our Interaction Group (IG) team may include an occupational therapist, speech-language pathologist, psychologist or licensed counselor who use your child’s interests to encourage engagement and participation in group and individual activities. Parent education and coaching are provided to support parent-child interactions.
Hosted by The Treatment and Learning Centers
Counselor, LCPC-S, BC-DMT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Rockville, MD 20850
TLC is a multi-disciplinary group of psychologists, OT's, & SLP's. The core of our philosophy is the belief that our focus is on people, not on diagnoses/disabilities. With that in mind, we develop an individualized plan with every child, young adult, and family. We use a holistic, strengths-based approach to help individuals reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, develop better self-esteem, learn new coping skills, improve social skills, and learn how to communicate more effectively. With these skills, children, teens, and adults can develop more positive relationships and improve their functioning at school or work.
Would you like to live life more comfortably & explore new adventures with the support of friends who feel like your people? Many teens have learned to feel successful & functional without learning how to take the social risks that lead to fun & a feeling of belonging. Their emotions often seem scary & difficult to control. This class can teach you skills to be open to what life has to offer, achieve or maintain control with increasing flexibility, & have more patience with yourself/others. Learn to embrace life, build on your strengths & build relationships with others while feeling safer & more secure.
Hosted by DBT Maryland LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
At DBT Maryland, we believe that in order to grow and make changes in their lives, people need validation, support and practical skills. We strive to provide empathic, accepting and productive therapeutic relationships so you can feel safe while moving toward your goals. Each person's situation is unique and our therapy approach will be designed to meet your individual needs. Many of our clients suffer from problems of emotional dysregulation (borderline personality, PTSD, depression, anxiety & bipolar) most effectively addressed by a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
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Autism Support Groups
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.