Autism Therapists in Del Mar, CA
I also have extensive training in assessing and diagnosing autism, learning disorders, developmental disabilities, and ADHD, and I taught assessment for a decade as an Adjunct Faculty in a Psychology Doctoral department.
Waitlist open as of March 2025! I believe that good therapy involves a combination of a supportive and warm relationship plus science-based therapeutic techniques. Within this framework I consider each person’s unique situation, neurodiversity, and set of problems and then tailor my approach to you or your child’s needs. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I try to bring a sense of humor and fun to my work with you or your family.
I also have extensive training in assessing and diagnosing autism, learning disorders, developmental disabilities, and ADHD, and I taught assessment for a decade as an Adjunct Faculty in a Psychology Doctoral department.
Waitlist open as of March 2025! I believe that good therapy involves a combination of a supportive and warm relationship plus science-based therapeutic techniques. Within this framework I consider each person’s unique situation, neurodiversity, and set of problems and then tailor my approach to you or your child’s needs. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I try to bring a sense of humor and fun to my work with you or your family.
I like to emphasize practical skills that anyone can implement when they are feeling overwhelmed or impulsive, and I am especially experienced with helping individuals with Autism (officially diagnosed or just suspected).
There are lots of different ways to do therapy, but I will always make sure that you have both a non-judgmental space to share, and that you walk away with practical skills to help you deal with the ongoing stress. People appreciate that I am authentic and honest in session, and that I'm not afraid to give feedback or reflection that my clients need to hear.
I like to emphasize practical skills that anyone can implement when they are feeling overwhelmed or impulsive, and I am especially experienced with helping individuals with Autism (officially diagnosed or just suspected).
There are lots of different ways to do therapy, but I will always make sure that you have both a non-judgmental space to share, and that you walk away with practical skills to help you deal with the ongoing stress. People appreciate that I am authentic and honest in session, and that I'm not afraid to give feedback or reflection that my clients need to hear.
Riley Morgan Therapy ... Neurodivergent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are an Autistic or AuDHD adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I can help you feel safer, supported, and heard with compassion.
I offer neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic or AuDHD adults to address burnout, masking, sensory needs, anxiety, and self-doubt without treating neurodivergence as something to fix. Our work may include neurotype awareness, compassionate reflection, sensory-based tools, identity exploration, and practical ways to reweave a life that fits you better
If you are an Autistic or AuDHD adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I can help you feel safer, supported, and heard with compassion.
I offer neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic or AuDHD adults to address burnout, masking, sensory needs, anxiety, and self-doubt without treating neurodivergence as something to fix. Our work may include neurotype awareness, compassionate reflection, sensory-based tools, identity exploration, and practical ways to reweave a life that fits you better
An expert in the autism field, I am sought out for my gold-standard ASD evaluations, which combine clinical astuteness with a great respect for human diversity.
I am the founder of Brain Spectrum, a boutique practice that is grounded in the belief that every person deserves the high quality care that we would want for our own families. My expertise lies in assessing neurodivergence and I am highly skilled at evaluating women and girls who mask their symptoms. I also offer evaluations for learning disorders and diagnostic clarification. Our team includes a psychologist who specializes in comprehensive child evaluations, and a neuropsychologist who focuses on concerns ranging from ADHD to dementia. Together we are committed to tailored assessments that honor each person's unique journey.
An expert in the autism field, I am sought out for my gold-standard ASD evaluations, which combine clinical astuteness with a great respect for human diversity.
I am the founder of Brain Spectrum, a boutique practice that is grounded in the belief that every person deserves the high quality care that we would want for our own families. My expertise lies in assessing neurodivergence and I am highly skilled at evaluating women and girls who mask their symptoms. I also offer evaluations for learning disorders and diagnostic clarification. Our team includes a psychologist who specializes in comprehensive child evaluations, and a neuropsychologist who focuses on concerns ranging from ADHD to dementia. Together we are committed to tailored assessments that honor each person's unique journey.
Strengthening those in need through compassionate, tailored therapy, I help you navigate challenges, improve communication, and build lasting bonds in a safe, supportive space. Let's create a brighter future together. My experience helps guide strategies that are practical, strength-based, and centered around your chosen goals. With extensive training in attachment, human development, and trauma, I know the importance of building healthy relationships and use this lens to inform our time together. I often use cognitive-behavior therapy to build insight into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Strengthening those in need through compassionate, tailored therapy, I help you navigate challenges, improve communication, and build lasting bonds in a safe, supportive space. Let's create a brighter future together. My experience helps guide strategies that are practical, strength-based, and centered around your chosen goals. With extensive training in attachment, human development, and trauma, I know the importance of building healthy relationships and use this lens to inform our time together. I often use cognitive-behavior therapy to build insight into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Are you forcing your way through the day? Perhaps you’re a parent watching your bright child struggle to start homework, or a college student paralyzed by a mounting pile of assignments. Maybe you’re an adult professional who feels like a 'fraud' because, despite your success, your behind-the-scenes life feels like chaos.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist, and I live with ADHD myself. I know firsthand that ADHD isn’t a lack of willpower—it’s a challenge of brain regulation. I understand the shame spiral and the intense anxiety that follows when executive functioning challenges keep you from meeting your true potential.
Are you forcing your way through the day? Perhaps you’re a parent watching your bright child struggle to start homework, or a college student paralyzed by a mounting pile of assignments. Maybe you’re an adult professional who feels like a 'fraud' because, despite your success, your behind-the-scenes life feels like chaos.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist, and I live with ADHD myself. I know firsthand that ADHD isn’t a lack of willpower—it’s a challenge of brain regulation. I understand the shame spiral and the intense anxiety that follows when executive functioning challenges keep you from meeting your true potential.
I began my career working with young children diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and other related childhood disorders.
I believe it is important to interact and work with my clients at their pace. When you are ready, I'm ready. To best support this, I utilize different therapeutic approaches and resources as necessary. Every individual is unique and this is important in my work.
I began my career working with young children diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and other related childhood disorders.
I believe it is important to interact and work with my clients at their pace. When you are ready, I'm ready. To best support this, I utilize different therapeutic approaches and resources as necessary. Every individual is unique and this is important in my work.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Have you had a life transition, trauma or adversity and you're trying to figure out how to cope? Has your sleep, mood or daily functioning been impacted? Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, relationships, parenting/caregiving stress, low self-esteem, or addictive behaviors and feel ready to prioritize your own needs. I believe positive change is always possible! I’m a dedicated and experienced therapist committed to guiding you on a journey towards healing. I offer a safe space to process thoughts, feelings and experiences, and develop increased capacity for positive growth.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Have you had a life transition, trauma or adversity and you're trying to figure out how to cope? Has your sleep, mood or daily functioning been impacted? Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, relationships, parenting/caregiving stress, low self-esteem, or addictive behaviors and feel ready to prioritize your own needs. I believe positive change is always possible! I’m a dedicated and experienced therapist committed to guiding you on a journey towards healing. I offer a safe space to process thoughts, feelings and experiences, and develop increased capacity for positive growth.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, and social skills. I have been a therapist and completing psychoeducational and psychological evaluations in San Diego County for over 20 years. I am regularly on school campuses throughout San Diego, consulting, training, or collaborating about a student's learning plan.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, and social skills. I have been a therapist and completing psychoeducational and psychological evaluations in San Diego County for over 20 years. I am regularly on school campuses throughout San Diego, consulting, training, or collaborating about a student's learning plan.
I deeply enjoy creating therapeutic relationships which catalyze personal growth and transformation!
My clinical specialties include
1) Depression and Anxiety Disorders: By combining evidence based interventions such as CBT and DBT with a trusting therapeutic relationship, I help patients significantly decrease distressing mental health symptoms.
2) Executive Functioning Development for Teens and Young Adults: I provide neuro-educational coaching and build core-competencies to increase self-directed living. This empowers teens/young adults to better manage the demands of school and social life with newfound confidence.
I deeply enjoy creating therapeutic relationships which catalyze personal growth and transformation!
My clinical specialties include
1) Depression and Anxiety Disorders: By combining evidence based interventions such as CBT and DBT with a trusting therapeutic relationship, I help patients significantly decrease distressing mental health symptoms.
2) Executive Functioning Development for Teens and Young Adults: I provide neuro-educational coaching and build core-competencies to increase self-directed living. This empowers teens/young adults to better manage the demands of school and social life with newfound confidence.
I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Additionally, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Additionally, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
Are you and your partner or loved one stuck in the same painful arguments over and over, wondering how to make a change? Perhaps you aren't sure how to move through a major life transition like a move, loss or child. Maybe you're a parent watching your teen struggle—whether it’s mood swings, anxiety, defiance, or tension at home—and you're not sure what to do next. I help couples rebuild connection and communication, and I support teens and families through conflict, unwanted behavior, addiction, anxiety, school refusal and attention struggles. I will help you get out of the vicious cycle that is seemingly endless and exhausting.
Are you and your partner or loved one stuck in the same painful arguments over and over, wondering how to make a change? Perhaps you aren't sure how to move through a major life transition like a move, loss or child. Maybe you're a parent watching your teen struggle—whether it’s mood swings, anxiety, defiance, or tension at home—and you're not sure what to do next. I help couples rebuild connection and communication, and I support teens and families through conflict, unwanted behavior, addiction, anxiety, school refusal and attention struggles. I will help you get out of the vicious cycle that is seemingly endless and exhausting.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation issues, social or peer-related difficulties, substance use, and challenges with school and/or family relationships. I also enjoy supporting clients through the significant life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood. I strive to create a safe space for my clients that includes collaboration, reflective curiosity, and opportunities for growth, creativity, and humor.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation issues, social or peer-related difficulties, substance use, and challenges with school and/or family relationships. I also enjoy supporting clients through the significant life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood. I strive to create a safe space for my clients that includes collaboration, reflective curiosity, and opportunities for growth, creativity, and humor.
You’re here because you expect more—from your performance, your mindset, and your life. As an athlete or high-performer, pressure, burnout, injury, or identity challenges can impact focus, confidence, and balance. I work with driven individuals to strengthen mental performance, resilience, and emotional regulation. My approach blends awareness-based practices and practical tools to uncover unintentional patterns and support purposeful action. I meet you where you are with patience and presence, helping you navigate life’s peaks and valleys while building sustainable performance and a life where you can truly thrive.
You’re here because you expect more—from your performance, your mindset, and your life. As an athlete or high-performer, pressure, burnout, injury, or identity challenges can impact focus, confidence, and balance. I work with driven individuals to strengthen mental performance, resilience, and emotional regulation. My approach blends awareness-based practices and practical tools to uncover unintentional patterns and support purposeful action. I meet you where you are with patience and presence, helping you navigate life’s peaks and valleys while building sustainable performance and a life where you can truly thrive.
Hello and welcome! I’m Sarah, and I’m so glad you’re here. As you move through the heaviest chapters of your story, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, misaligned, navigating life transitions, or processing grief, I’m here to support you through the uncertainty. My style is deeply rooted in an integrative and collaborative approach, creating space where you can slow down and reconnect with yourself.
Hello and welcome! I’m Sarah, and I’m so glad you’re here. As you move through the heaviest chapters of your story, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, misaligned, navigating life transitions, or processing grief, I’m here to support you through the uncertainty. My style is deeply rooted in an integrative and collaborative approach, creating space where you can slow down and reconnect with yourself.
General diagnostic considerations include neurobehavioral concerns, including, but not limited to intellectual disabilities/global developmental delays, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities, neurocognitive changes due to a medical condition.
Are you concerned your child is demonstrating delays in milestones, such as speech and motor skills? Is your child demonstrating symptoms of poor attention/concentration, difficulties establishing peer relationships, difficulty learning or is not progressing in school as expected? Does your child have a history of a head injury or any other medical concerns that caused a decline/loss of skills? If any of the above are a concern, then perhaps, a neuropsychological evaluation would assist in understanding your child's current functioning and specific strengths and weaknesses. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation .
General diagnostic considerations include neurobehavioral concerns, including, but not limited to intellectual disabilities/global developmental delays, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities, neurocognitive changes due to a medical condition.
Are you concerned your child is demonstrating delays in milestones, such as speech and motor skills? Is your child demonstrating symptoms of poor attention/concentration, difficulties establishing peer relationships, difficulty learning or is not progressing in school as expected? Does your child have a history of a head injury or any other medical concerns that caused a decline/loss of skills? If any of the above are a concern, then perhaps, a neuropsychological evaluation would assist in understanding your child's current functioning and specific strengths and weaknesses. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation .
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly.
Her approach to therapy integrates a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Family Therapy. These methods allow her to address a range of issues, from childhood behavior problems and couple’s issues to more complex conditions like psychosis and substance use disorders. Andi is also skilled in helping individuals navigate significant life transitions, such as midlife changes and reproductive challenges. Outside of her practice, Andi enjoys stand-up comedy, playing soccer, and spending time with her dog, Charles.
Her approach to therapy integrates a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Family Therapy. These methods allow her to address a range of issues, from childhood behavior problems and couple’s issues to more complex conditions like psychosis and substance use disorders. Andi is also skilled in helping individuals navigate significant life transitions, such as midlife changes and reproductive challenges. Outside of her practice, Andi enjoys stand-up comedy, playing soccer, and spending time with her dog, Charles.
Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations, including:
<> To help clarify diagnoses (ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, Neurodevelopmental Disorders etc)
<> To determine accommodations for "high stakes" testing, such as ACT, SAT, LSAT, MCAT and GRE
Results of an evaluation can ensure clients receive appropriate accommodations, services and referrals. Dr. Dohrenwend and the team at Psychology 360 serve as a partner and advocate throughout the entire evaluation process. Coordination of care is a priority and the team frequently consults with other relevant parties either before, during or after testing.
Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations, including:
<> To help clarify diagnoses (ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, Neurodevelopmental Disorders etc)
<> To determine accommodations for "high stakes" testing, such as ACT, SAT, LSAT, MCAT and GRE
Results of an evaluation can ensure clients receive appropriate accommodations, services and referrals. Dr. Dohrenwend and the team at Psychology 360 serve as a partner and advocate throughout the entire evaluation process. Coordination of care is a priority and the team frequently consults with other relevant parties either before, during or after testing.
As a Board-Certified Psychologist and Board-Certified Psychoanalyst with over 20 years of clinical experience, I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking expert care for emotional, behavioral, and cognitive concerns. My practice provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and individualized treatment plans. Together, my team and I help patients gain insight, strengthen coping skills, and achieve meaningful, lasting growth.
As a Board-Certified Psychologist and Board-Certified Psychoanalyst with over 20 years of clinical experience, I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking expert care for emotional, behavioral, and cognitive concerns. My practice provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and individualized treatment plans. Together, my team and I help patients gain insight, strengthen coping skills, and achieve meaningful, lasting growth.
See more therapy options for Del Mar
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Del Mar
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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.