Photo of Pat Webbink, Psychologist in 20816, MD
Pat Webbink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
(240) 435-4843 View (240) 435-4843
Photo of Empowered Connections, Counselor in 20816, MD
Empowered Connections
Counselor, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide a girl/teen girl expert to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. Two locations to better serve you: Leonardtown and Dunkirk.
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide a girl/teen girl expert to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. Two locations to better serve you: Leonardtown and Dunkirk.
(240) 712-5327 x700 View (240) 712-5327 x700

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapists

Who is ABA therapy for?

ABA therapy is most widely applied to teach basic behavioral, communication, and social skills to children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. It may also be used to help people undergoing rehabilitation following brain injury. It uses reward-based learning techniques to impart essential life skills. ABA is also used in the treatment of some other conditions. One is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , to help children overcome difficulties with concentration and controlling impulsive behaviors. For people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, it is sometimes used to help them overcome compulsive behavior. ABA therapy is also sometimes used in cases of PTSD, to help people turn to positive behaviours when they have experiences that trigger distressing memories.

Why do people need ABA?

Children with autism and other developmental disorders need ABA therapy as a way to learn how to communicate and engage with others, improve their general ability to function and lead fulfilling lives, and diminish dangerous behaviors. The techniques used in ABA therapy are based on established principles of learning, and positive reinforcement—supplying earned rewards—is an important strategy for motivating positive behaviour change.

What happens in ABA therapy?

The first thing that happens in ABA therapy is an evaluation of the child in service of developing a treatment plan. The therapist meets with the child’s parent(s) in order to learn about the family and the child, assesses the child’s behavior and ability level, and then creates a plan tailored to the specific needs of that person. Once the treatment goals are established, the skills to be learned are broken down into small, component steps. Treatment sessions focus on learning and practicing each step, and furnishing meaningful rewards as steps are learned, behaviors are spontaneously implemented, and goals are accomplished. ABA therapists also train caregivers and families so that behavioral progress occurs beyond the clinical setting.

What problems does ABA therapy treat?

One of the primary goals of ABA therapy is to decrease the outbursts and other nonproductive behaviors of children with autism. At the same time, ABA aims to remedy language deficits and help such children learn how to communicate successfully. ABA therapy helps children learn age-appropriate social skills and gain skills, such as attention and focus, that are necessary for school.