Autism Psychiatrists in Washington, DC

Photo of Clifford Sussman, Psychiatrist, MD
Clifford Sussman
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I have a private practice in psychiatry and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults in Washington, DC. I am one of the few specialists in the country in internet and video game addiction. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Please ask about Digimotor Game Therapy(DGT) forProblematic Screen Use, anew Day Camp/Evening program I have developed in collaboration with Fitness For Health. Info on the website as well.
I have a private practice in psychiatry and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults in Washington, DC. I am one of the few specialists in the country in internet and video game addiction. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Please ask about Digimotor Game Therapy(DGT) forProblematic Screen Use, anew Day Camp/Evening program I have developed in collaboration with Fitness For Health. Info on the website as well.
(202) 643-5962 View (202) 643-5962
Photo of Dr. Veronica Kwegyir-Afful, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Dr. Veronica Kwegyir-Afful
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and neurodivergent conditions including Autism.
I provide trauma-informed, evidence-based psychiatric care across the lifespan—including individuals with developmental disabilities and neurodivergence. Services include comprehensive evaluations and individualized medication management, tailored to each person's developmental stage, symptoms, and goals.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and neurodivergent conditions including Autism.
I provide trauma-informed, evidence-based psychiatric care across the lifespan—including individuals with developmental disabilities and neurodivergence. Services include comprehensive evaluations and individualized medication management, tailored to each person's developmental stage, symptoms, and goals.
(410) 680-3695 View (410) 680-3695
Photo of Swati Divakarla, Psychiatrist, MD
Swati Divakarla
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
I specialize in treating pediatric and adult ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and supporting college-age youth and young professionals.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who believes every person deserves care that’s as unique as they are. I’ve had the privilege of working with children, teens, and adults from all walks of life, guiding them through a range of mental health challenges. Using evidence-based medication and tailored therapy approaches, I’m dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized support to help you thrive. Let's get started!
I specialize in treating pediatric and adult ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and supporting college-age youth and young professionals.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who believes every person deserves care that’s as unique as they are. I’ve had the privilege of working with children, teens, and adults from all walks of life, guiding them through a range of mental health challenges. Using evidence-based medication and tailored therapy approaches, I’m dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized support to help you thrive. Let's get started!
(202) 915-6420 View (202) 915-6420
Photo of Dr. Adewunmi Julius Bankole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Adewunmi Julius Bankole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in New York, Texas, DC, Washington and New Jersey and . I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. I provide individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals. Please reach out today and I will be glad to help.
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in New York, Texas, DC, Washington and New Jersey and . I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. I provide individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals. Please reach out today and I will be glad to help.
(202) 978-7105 View (202) 978-7105
Photo of Sinan Duzyurek, Psychiatrist, MD
Sinan Duzyurek
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20009
Obsessive-compulsive spectrum; Adult Autism Spectrum; Mood Disorders; Anxiety Disorders ; ADHD; Sexual Function Issues; PTSD.
My training and clinical experience of 3 decades include general medicine, neuropsychiatry; comprehensive adult psychiatry, sexual medicine, various psychotherapies (such as metacognitive and here-and-now focused therapy); rTMS (not offering rTMS at this time); ketamine treatments; psychiatric genetic testing; and advanced psychopharmacology with integrated psychotherapy / counseling during patient sessions. I employ a multidimensional and integrated approach toward an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis and effective treatment strategies. I am in the clinical faculty at the GWU, Depart. of Psychiatry.
Obsessive-compulsive spectrum; Adult Autism Spectrum; Mood Disorders; Anxiety Disorders ; ADHD; Sexual Function Issues; PTSD.
My training and clinical experience of 3 decades include general medicine, neuropsychiatry; comprehensive adult psychiatry, sexual medicine, various psychotherapies (such as metacognitive and here-and-now focused therapy); rTMS (not offering rTMS at this time); ketamine treatments; psychiatric genetic testing; and advanced psychopharmacology with integrated psychotherapy / counseling during patient sessions. I employ a multidimensional and integrated approach toward an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis and effective treatment strategies. I am in the clinical faculty at the GWU, Depart. of Psychiatry.
(202) 759-3055 View (202) 759-3055
Photo of Amarachi Nwaije, Psychiatrist, MD
Amarachi Nwaije
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20016
Taking the first step toward mental health care can feel intimidating. I honor the courage it takes to reach out and am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you and your child feel seen, heard, and understood. I provide comprehensive evaluations, evidence-based treatment, and medication management tailored to each person’s needs. I specialize in pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, helping young patients develop coping strategies, emotional resilience, and healthy patterns of behavior, while also supporting adults facing depression, anxiety, and other mental healt
Taking the first step toward mental health care can feel intimidating. I honor the courage it takes to reach out and am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you and your child feel seen, heard, and understood. I provide comprehensive evaluations, evidence-based treatment, and medication management tailored to each person’s needs. I specialize in pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, helping young patients develop coping strategies, emotional resilience, and healthy patterns of behavior, while also supporting adults facing depression, anxiety, and other mental healt
(202) 410-2617 View (202) 410-2617
Photo of Gregory Anyinam Obiwuma - New Era Recovery & Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
New Era Recovery & Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Washington, DC 20002
Greg Obiwuma is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of working in psychiatric and mental health care in the Washington, DC metro area. We perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses and other mental health issues in people of all ages. At New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC, we utilize a holistic approach to treat patients across the lifespan (Adults, Adolescents and Children). Applying evidence-based
Greg Obiwuma is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of working in psychiatric and mental health care in the Washington, DC metro area. We perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses and other mental health issues in people of all ages. At New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC, we utilize a holistic approach to treat patients across the lifespan (Adults, Adolescents and Children). Applying evidence-based
(202) 946-7827 View (202) 946-7827
Amina Osman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Washington, DC 20018
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional overwhelm who are ready to feel better and regain control of their lives. Many have tried to manage on their own but now want support, understanding, and a safe space to heal. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, blending medication management with emotional support and practical coping tools. Together, we work toward improving balance, confidence, and overall well-being so you can live a peaceful, fulfilling life.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional overwhelm who are ready to feel better and regain control of their lives. Many have tried to manage on their own but now want support, understanding, and a safe space to heal. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, blending medication management with emotional support and practical coping tools. Together, we work toward improving balance, confidence, and overall well-being so you can live a peaceful, fulfilling life.
(202) 517-0749 View (202) 517-0749
Photo of Emily Nyange Floode, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Emily Nyange Floode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Washington, DC 20006
As a Doctoral psychiatric and family Nurse Practitioner, it is my objective to advocate for patients who fight to be heard or respected, as well as manage their treatment with understanding, empathy, and attention to holistic care. I am a very fortunate nurse practitioner to work in a growing age of healthcare and firmly believe that mental health and individuals living with chronic conditions needing care rely on a culture of acceptance and openness. I will work hard to foster a safe environment for all patients and plan to use my DNP care for patients with anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, and chronic conditions.
As a Doctoral psychiatric and family Nurse Practitioner, it is my objective to advocate for patients who fight to be heard or respected, as well as manage their treatment with understanding, empathy, and attention to holistic care. I am a very fortunate nurse practitioner to work in a growing age of healthcare and firmly believe that mental health and individuals living with chronic conditions needing care rely on a culture of acceptance and openness. I will work hard to foster a safe environment for all patients and plan to use my DNP care for patients with anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, and chronic conditions.
(202) 972-6998 View (202) 972-6998
Photo of Dr. Joseph Okrah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Dr. Joseph Okrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Hello, I'm Joseph, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage your symptoms? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes of your struggles and developing a personalized treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches for effective healing.
Hello, I'm Joseph, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage your symptoms? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes of your struggles and developing a personalized treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches for effective healing.
(202) 601-3312 View (202) 601-3312
Photo of Jimmy Ibikunle - Jimmy Ibikunle, MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Jimmy Ibikunle, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20036
I provide office based psychiatric services across age groups for depressive, anxiety, bipolar, attention deficit-hyperactivity, autistic spectrum, post traumatic stress, conduct, psychotic, obsessive-compulsive, impulse control and substance use disorders.
I hope to meet your unique emotional and behavioral health needs by providing excellent office based psychiatric services. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication monitoring services across age groups. Evaluations are scheduled for 60 minutes and medication follow up visits for 20 minutes. I do not routinely offer psychotherapy services. In addition, the practice provides TMS treatments, a non-invasive, FDA-cleared option for individuals who have not achieved sufficient results for Major Depressive Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
I provide office based psychiatric services across age groups for depressive, anxiety, bipolar, attention deficit-hyperactivity, autistic spectrum, post traumatic stress, conduct, psychotic, obsessive-compulsive, impulse control and substance use disorders.
I hope to meet your unique emotional and behavioral health needs by providing excellent office based psychiatric services. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication monitoring services across age groups. Evaluations are scheduled for 60 minutes and medication follow up visits for 20 minutes. I do not routinely offer psychotherapy services. In addition, the practice provides TMS treatments, a non-invasive, FDA-cleared option for individuals who have not achieved sufficient results for Major Depressive Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
(202) 759-3979 View (202) 759-3979
Photo of Dr. Nina Axiotakis, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Nina Axiotakis
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Hi there! I'm a Georgetown-trained psychiatrist & psychotherapist for kids, teens, & adults of all ages in DC, MD, & VA. I'm at the heart of Dupont Circle, DC & I offer telehealth as well. I treat a broad array of conditions and concerns including but not limited to those of mood, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, ASD, ADHD, OCD, eating, intellectual, personality, gender, sexuality, behavior, relationships, grief & other life challenges. I espouse a collaborative spirit not only toward symptom alleviation but equally toward the actualization of your most fulfilling life. Don't hesitate to reach out for a free phone consultation. -Nina
Hi there! I'm a Georgetown-trained psychiatrist & psychotherapist for kids, teens, & adults of all ages in DC, MD, & VA. I'm at the heart of Dupont Circle, DC & I offer telehealth as well. I treat a broad array of conditions and concerns including but not limited to those of mood, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, ASD, ADHD, OCD, eating, intellectual, personality, gender, sexuality, behavior, relationships, grief & other life challenges. I espouse a collaborative spirit not only toward symptom alleviation but equally toward the actualization of your most fulfilling life. Don't hesitate to reach out for a free phone consultation. -Nina
(202) 417-7568 View (202) 417-7568
Photo of Roseline Eko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Roseline Eko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Ros Eko, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience in the psychiatric and behavioral health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and older adults, giving me a broad perspective on the unique challenges faced at different stages of life. My goal is to provide safe, compassionate, and effective care through a collaborative partnership between provider and client. I believe that treatment works best when you feel supported, understood, and actively involved in the process.
My name is Ros Eko, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience in the psychiatric and behavioral health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and older adults, giving me a broad perspective on the unique challenges faced at different stages of life. My goal is to provide safe, compassionate, and effective care through a collaborative partnership between provider and client. I believe that treatment works best when you feel supported, understood, and actively involved in the process.
(202) 968-3429 View (202) 968-3429
Photo of Jeanne Chutuape, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jeanne Chutuape
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Washington, DC 20016
Mental health challenges can make life’s ups and downs seem impossible. But there is real hope for a brighter and more fulfilling life. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed to treat individuals with psychiatric conditions, including prescribing and managing medications from the age of six years old and up. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, schizophrenia, and other disorders.
Mental health challenges can make life’s ups and downs seem impossible. But there is real hope for a brighter and more fulfilling life. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed to treat individuals with psychiatric conditions, including prescribing and managing medications from the age of six years old and up. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, schizophrenia, and other disorders.
(833) 975-3087 View (833) 975-3087
Photo of Karen Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Karen Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Washington, DC 20006
I work with children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, trauma, thought disorders, autism spectrum disorder, as well as academic and social challenges.
Now Accepting New Clients. I believe healing begins with feeling truly understood. My goal is to listen deeply to your unique experiences and create a supportive space where you feel safe, seen, and empowered. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that may include psychopharmacology alongside integrative approaches to support your overall well-being.
I work with children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, trauma, thought disorders, autism spectrum disorder, as well as academic and social challenges.
Now Accepting New Clients. I believe healing begins with feeling truly understood. My goal is to listen deeply to your unique experiences and create a supportive space where you feel safe, seen, and empowered. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that may include psychopharmacology alongside integrative approaches to support your overall well-being.
(703) 570-5657 View (703) 570-5657
Photo of Matt Leshchiner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Matt Leshchiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I also have some expertise in working with autistic people and LGBTQ issues.
I diagnose and treat adults and adolescents with all psychiatric illnesses. However, I don’t get hung up on labels and diagnoses. My patients describe me as authentic because I treat each person as an individual with their own specific symptoms and needs. I am committed to providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have worked in psychiatry for over ten years. I earned my BSN and MSN from The George Washington University. While I primarily do medication management, I am also trained in DBT and existential therapy.
I also have some expertise in working with autistic people and LGBTQ issues.
I diagnose and treat adults and adolescents with all psychiatric illnesses. However, I don’t get hung up on labels and diagnoses. My patients describe me as authentic because I treat each person as an individual with their own specific symptoms and needs. I am committed to providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have worked in psychiatry for over ten years. I earned my BSN and MSN from The George Washington University. While I primarily do medication management, I am also trained in DBT and existential therapy.
(202) 932-9745 View (202) 932-9745
Photo of Edward (Ed) Stern, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Edward (Ed) Stern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a psychiatric prescriber that will listen to your needs? Someone who takes the time to work with you and your goals? Someone who accepts you for who you are and where you want to be? Then we should talk. Ed and his entire team work with patients who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and much more. He integrates modern approaches to the science of mental health and wants you to meet your goals. Ed a member of the LGBTQ community and assures that all folx, no matter their gender, sexuality, or life status, is equally respected.
Are you looking for a psychiatric prescriber that will listen to your needs? Someone who takes the time to work with you and your goals? Someone who accepts you for who you are and where you want to be? Then we should talk. Ed and his entire team work with patients who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and much more. He integrates modern approaches to the science of mental health and wants you to meet your goals. Ed a member of the LGBTQ community and assures that all folx, no matter their gender, sexuality, or life status, is equally respected.
(202) 918-2642 View (202) 918-2642
Photo of Yishen Wendy Braden - Yishen Wendy Braden, Harmony Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Yishen Wendy Braden, Harmony Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
As a mental health care provider with over 10 years of experience in providing compassionate and comprehensive care, I specialize in managing conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and addition management, tailoring treatment plans to meet each individual's unique needs. My approach emphasizes collaboration, empowering clients to achieve their mental health goals through evidence-based interventions and supportive counseling, I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and understood. I am licensed in DC and VA and accept insurance and self-pay to all age groups.
As a mental health care provider with over 10 years of experience in providing compassionate and comprehensive care, I specialize in managing conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and addition management, tailoring treatment plans to meet each individual's unique needs. My approach emphasizes collaboration, empowering clients to achieve their mental health goals through evidence-based interventions and supportive counseling, I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and understood. I am licensed in DC and VA and accept insurance and self-pay to all age groups.
(202) 883-5401 View (202) 883-5401
Photo of Mimi Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Mimi Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Washington, DC 20005
Mimi Tyson is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Maryland and the District of Colombia. Mimi Tyson is accepting new clients for telehealth and in-person sessions. She can prescribe psychiatric medications and provide therapy. She strives to provide quality services to individuals struggling with mental health disorders. She has experience serving individuals with diverse psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance use disorders.
Mimi Tyson is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Maryland and the District of Colombia. Mimi Tyson is accepting new clients for telehealth and in-person sessions. She can prescribe psychiatric medications and provide therapy. She strives to provide quality services to individuals struggling with mental health disorders. She has experience serving individuals with diverse psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance use disorders.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Georgina Rose Chidaushe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Georgina Rose Chidaushe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, adolescents and children to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD.
Since every client is unique, so are treatment plans. I will help you explore the underlying causes of symptoms and facilitate integrated holistic wellness by incorporating psychotropic medication, lifestyle modification, psychotherapy, cognitive reframing, coping skills development, mindfulness and nutrition recommendations, and referral to specialists.
Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, adolescents and children to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD.
Since every client is unique, so are treatment plans. I will help you explore the underlying causes of symptoms and facilitate integrated holistic wellness by incorporating psychotropic medication, lifestyle modification, psychotherapy, cognitive reframing, coping skills development, mindfulness and nutrition recommendations, and referral to specialists.
(202) 952-5645 View (202) 952-5645

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FAQ - Autism Psychiatrists
How can psychiatrists help with autism spectrum disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder, often referred to simply as autism, is a developmental condition defined by social, communication, and behavioral differences. These challenges can make it difficult for individuals with autism to form and maintain relationships, adapt to changing environments, or thrive in traditional school settings. Symptoms of autism typically emerge in early childhood and are often first noticed by caregivers who observe difficulties in social interactions, the presence of repetitive behaviors, or unusually intense interests in specific topics. Children with autism may also show heightened sensitivity to certain sensory experiences, such as loud noises, bright lights, or specific textures in food or clothing.

How do psychiatrists diagnose and support children with autism?
Psychiatrists, often working in partnership with a pediatrician or developmental specialist, can play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment planning for children with autism. Diagnosis usually begins with an evaluation to assess the child's development, behavior, and overall functioning. Psychiatrists with expertise in autism are skilled at distinguishing the condition from other developmental or behavioral conditions that may share overlapping features, such as learning disorders. After diagnosis, psychiatrists may recommend a variety of supports, including behavioral interventions like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), occupational therapy, and/or family counseling. While there is no medication specific to autism, psychiatrists may prescribe medication to help manage co-occurring conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or anxiety.

How can I find a psychiatrist who specializes in autism?
Because autism presents differently in each individual and is typically identified in childhood, it is especially important to find a psychiatrist with experience working with young children and families. The Psychology Today online directory can help identify providers who specialize in autism and allows for filters based on treatment approaches, age group, and other preferences. When selecting a provider, it is helpful to ask about their specific experience with autism, their philosophy on therapy and medication use, and how they coordinate care with therapists, educators, and other members of a child's care team. Practical factors—such as appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and whether the provider offers in-person or telehealth visits—should also be taken into account to ensure a good fit.