Autism Therapists in Bethesda, MD

Photo of Syd Brown, PhD, ABN, ABPP, Psychologist
Syd Brown
Psychologist, PhD, ABN, ABPP
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am Board Certified in both Clinical and Neuropsychology, and my practice has evolved over the years to a primary focus on evaluations. Psychoeducational evaluations focus on academic skills and functioning, with ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders being of particular concern. These evaluations often lead to accommodations in schools and colleges and on standardized admissions tests. Neuropsychological evaluations examine the impact of psychiatric and neurological disorders on cognitive and emotional functioning. Cogscreen--AE evaluations are conducted to screen pilots and air traffic controllers.
I am Board Certified in both Clinical and Neuropsychology, and my practice has evolved over the years to a primary focus on evaluations. Psychoeducational evaluations focus on academic skills and functioning, with ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders being of particular concern. These evaluations often lead to accommodations in schools and colleges and on standardized admissions tests. Neuropsychological evaluations examine the impact of psychiatric and neurological disorders on cognitive and emotional functioning. Cogscreen--AE evaluations are conducted to screen pilots and air traffic controllers.
(301) 685-0681 View (301) 685-0681
Photo of Robert Anthony Binger - Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS
Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex and/or autism. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex and/or autism. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
(240) 474-9205 View (240) 474-9205
Photo of Caron Starobin, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caron Starobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
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.
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.
(301) 273-7346 View (301) 273-7346
Photo of Dr. Sarah K Gardner - Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC, PsyD, NCC, Psychologist
Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810
Two areas of intensive specialization are in autism and in trauma treatment.
Services provided by, or under the supervision of, neuropsychologists and licensed clinical psychologists, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders ( autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
Two areas of intensive specialization are in autism and in trauma treatment.
Services provided by, or under the supervision of, neuropsychologists and licensed clinical psychologists, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders ( autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
(410) 834-4913 View (410) 834-4913
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20816
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Depression, SI, and Anxiety, with experience in art & garden therapies.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Depression, SI, and Anxiety, with experience in art & garden therapies.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(508) 859-9492 View (508) 859-9492
Photo of Joanne Vu, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Vu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients. I offer Telehealth sessions and offer flexible weekday. I’ve had the most success with clients who have Autism, learning disabilities or making life transitions and are in young adulthood ranging from 18-30 years old. My strengths are connecting, supporting, and providing engagement and processing of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors into objectifiable outcomes in a safe and warm environment suitable for growth and change.
I am currently accepting new clients. I offer Telehealth sessions and offer flexible weekday. I’ve had the most success with clients who have Autism, learning disabilities or making life transitions and are in young adulthood ranging from 18-30 years old. My strengths are connecting, supporting, and providing engagement and processing of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors into objectifiable outcomes in a safe and warm environment suitable for growth and change.
(410) 673-4828 View (410) 673-4828
Photo of Kristin E Scopelliti, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin E Scopelliti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815  (Online Only)
Kristin further has specialized knowledge and understanding of individuals diagnosed as having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination.” Do you find yourself wondering what you can do to feel better—less anxious, more confident, even happy? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. You may be able to support others yet you fall short on supporting yourself. You no longer feel like yourself and worry that it could get worse. Imagine what it would feel like not to constantly worry and to be confident in your ability to handle challenging situations. Therapy is a step in practicing self-awareness and self-care.
Kristin further has specialized knowledge and understanding of individuals diagnosed as having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination.” Do you find yourself wondering what you can do to feel better—less anxious, more confident, even happy? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. You may be able to support others yet you fall short on supporting yourself. You no longer feel like yourself and worry that it could get worse. Imagine what it would feel like not to constantly worry and to be confident in your ability to handle challenging situations. Therapy is a step in practicing self-awareness and self-care.
(202) 915-7212 View (202) 915-7212
Photo of Sarah M. Matthews, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah M. Matthews
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
I am a clinical psychologist with The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a nonprofit organization providing exceptional psychological services to children and adults. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and young adults struggling with behavioral, emotional regulation, and social challenges. I provide psychotherapy and consultation to help individuals and families navigate anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, school and learning problems, and behavioral concerns.
I am a clinical psychologist with The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a nonprofit organization providing exceptional psychological services to children and adults. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and young adults struggling with behavioral, emotional regulation, and social challenges. I provide psychotherapy and consultation to help individuals and families navigate anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, school and learning problems, and behavioral concerns.
(301) 273-7452 View (301) 273-7452
Photo of Dr. Rachael Arowolo - Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations), PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
(301) 945-7160 View (301) 945-7160
Photo of Dr. Sarah E. Jung, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah E. Jung
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
I provide psychological assessments for ADHD, Autism or psychiatric disorders for adults.
I provide psychotherapy to clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from treatments that are backed by science, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I provide psychological assessments for ADHD, Autism or psychiatric disorders for adults.
I provide psychotherapy to clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from treatments that are backed by science, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(240) 624-9834 View (240) 624-9834
Photo of Brenden Stinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenden Stinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
(240) 266-9948 View (240) 266-9948
Photo of Nathaniel Eckland, PhD, Psychologist
Nathaniel Eckland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
I am also interested in neurodiversity and autism (helping clients navigate diagnoses, process/identify difficult emotions, and cope with anxiety), especially among young adults.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
I am also interested in neurodiversity and autism (helping clients navigate diagnoses, process/identify difficult emotions, and cope with anxiety), especially among young adults.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
(240) 366-2339 View (240) 366-2339
Photo of Brad Friedman, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brad Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Over the last 8 years I have worked with teens and adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, grief, trauma and schizophrenia.
My approach to psychotherapy is to help you achieve emotional stability and personal growth. I understand that anxiety and depression can greatly impact your quality of life, and make it hard to engage in a fulfilling and meaningful daily experience. With the mental health services that I have to offer, you can learn to cope better with past, current, and even future problems, so that you may achieve a happy and healthy lifestyle. It is my deeply-held belief that utilizing a collaborative, adaptable, and individualized treatment approach is essential in identifying the underlying causes of challenges facing my clients.
Over the last 8 years I have worked with teens and adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, grief, trauma and schizophrenia.
My approach to psychotherapy is to help you achieve emotional stability and personal growth. I understand that anxiety and depression can greatly impact your quality of life, and make it hard to engage in a fulfilling and meaningful daily experience. With the mental health services that I have to offer, you can learn to cope better with past, current, and even future problems, so that you may achieve a happy and healthy lifestyle. It is my deeply-held belief that utilizing a collaborative, adaptable, and individualized treatment approach is essential in identifying the underlying causes of challenges facing my clients.
(240) 851-4187 View (240) 851-4187
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 376-2638 View (240) 376-2638
Photo of Amy Papinchak, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Amy Papinchak
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I also have experience working with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, depression, and disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders.
I work with children, adults, and families and emphasize a person-centered approach utilizing a strong therapeutic alliance, unconditional positive regard, and empathy to create a comfortable therapeutic environment. I am also LGBTQIA+ affirming and use an integrative approach to therapy drawing from CBT, ACT, mindfulness, attachment theories, and trauma-informed approaches.
I also have experience working with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, depression, and disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders.
I work with children, adults, and families and emphasize a person-centered approach utilizing a strong therapeutic alliance, unconditional positive regard, and empathy to create a comfortable therapeutic environment. I am also LGBTQIA+ affirming and use an integrative approach to therapy drawing from CBT, ACT, mindfulness, attachment theories, and trauma-informed approaches.
(240) 851-4725 x15 View (240) 851-4725 x15
Photo of Heather McMullen - The Counseling Center Group, Annapolis , LCSW-C, MT-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Counseling Center Group, Annapolis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
At CCG, we have expertise in addressing anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, relationship and family issues, job stress, autism, and major life transitions.
The Counseling Center Group is dedicated to helping you live a life you love. We are committed to providing relatively short-term treatments designed to achieve positive, long-lasting results. Our team of therapists use structured, evidence-based methods to help you reach realistic goals in the most efficient manner. We recognize that you need sensible strategies to achieve your desired outcomes, not years of open-ended therapy that simply validates your concerns. Each member of our team operates with that core value in mind and can work with you one-on-one or in group therapy in an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion. We take pride in helping individuals, couples, and families make life-enhancing changes and transitions. At the Counseling Center Group, we can help you discover your authentic self; understand the emotions, thoughts and actions that keep you stuck in place; and master the tools you need to live a fulfilling life.
At CCG, we have expertise in addressing anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, relationship and family issues, job stress, autism, and major life transitions.
The Counseling Center Group is dedicated to helping you live a life you love. We are committed to providing relatively short-term treatments designed to achieve positive, long-lasting results. Our team of therapists use structured, evidence-based methods to help you reach realistic goals in the most efficient manner. We recognize that you need sensible strategies to achieve your desired outcomes, not years of open-ended therapy that simply validates your concerns. Each member of our team operates with that core value in mind and can work with you one-on-one or in group therapy in an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion. We take pride in helping individuals, couples, and families make life-enhancing changes and transitions. At the Counseling Center Group, we can help you discover your authentic self; understand the emotions, thoughts and actions that keep you stuck in place; and master the tools you need to live a fulfilling life.
(667) 220-0157 View (667) 220-0157
Photo of Lorrie Ann Ness, PhD, Psychologist
Lorrie Ann Ness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
Treatment or consultation for issues related to anxiety, depression, AD/HD, academic challenges, autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities is also provided.
In today's hurried world I strive always to listen and never to rush. Here, individuals find a safe place to "unpack" their worries and feel understood. I particularly enjoy working with families to uncover sources of academic difficulty and develop individualized solutions. With young children, parents are always in integral part of the treatment and I frequently consult with other health care professionals and educators in order to create a broad treatment team.
Treatment or consultation for issues related to anxiety, depression, AD/HD, academic challenges, autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities is also provided.
In today's hurried world I strive always to listen and never to rush. Here, individuals find a safe place to "unpack" their worries and feel understood. I particularly enjoy working with families to uncover sources of academic difficulty and develop individualized solutions. With young children, parents are always in integral part of the treatment and I frequently consult with other health care professionals and educators in order to create a broad treatment team.
(301) 234-6382 View (301) 234-6382
Photo of Marjorie Theard, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie Theard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810
For the past 20 years, I have worked with children, adolescents and their families both as a special education teacher and a clinical social worker. I specialize in anxiety, social skills and behavioral struggles at home and at school, ADHD, challenges with inflexibility, problem solving and autism.
For the past 20 years, I have worked with children, adolescents and their families both as a special education teacher and a clinical social worker. I specialize in anxiety, social skills and behavioral struggles at home and at school, ADHD, challenges with inflexibility, problem solving and autism.
(240) 534-1775 View (240) 534-1775
Photo of Gertrud Irmgard Classen-Miller - Classen-Miller and Associates, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Annie Holscher, ATR-BC, LCPAT, CDP, Art Therapist
Annie Holscher
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LCPAT, CDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Use the process of art-making to address the challenges of life. I work with clients dealing with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, stress, or going through life transitions. I specialize in working with adults with cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer's and Dementia, Autism, or intellectual disabilities.
Use the process of art-making to address the challenges of life. I work with clients dealing with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, stress, or going through life transitions. I specialize in working with adults with cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer's and Dementia, Autism, or intellectual disabilities.
(301) 804-2167 View (301) 804-2167
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Autism Therapists

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.