Autism Therapists in Shaw, Washington, DC

Photo of Elle Smiley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Elle Smiley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in queer and neurodivergent clients, including folx on the Autism spectrum and/or who have ADHD.
Are you navigating the intersection of being queer and neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t seem to have been built for you? Learning to love all the parts of yourself is so much more challenging when you’re surrounded by systems and structures that aren’t affirming or flexible. Many of us in these communities navigate issues such as sensory sensitivity, relationship struggles, chronic dysregulation, and executive dysfunction. As a queer neurodivergent person, I understand the complexities and unique challenges you may face. Compassion is at the center of my approach.
I specialize in queer and neurodivergent clients, including folx on the Autism spectrum and/or who have ADHD.
Are you navigating the intersection of being queer and neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t seem to have been built for you? Learning to love all the parts of yourself is so much more challenging when you’re surrounded by systems and structures that aren’t affirming or flexible. Many of us in these communities navigate issues such as sensory sensitivity, relationship struggles, chronic dysregulation, and executive dysfunction. As a queer neurodivergent person, I understand the complexities and unique challenges you may face. Compassion is at the center of my approach.
(877) 554-4570 View (877) 554-4570
Photo of Lucy Rose Freshour, Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Lucy Rose Freshour
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m trained and experienced in helping folks with anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar disorder, family/relationship issues, perfectionism, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, BPD, and more.
We’ll explore how the past informs current thought, behavioral, and mood patterns. We’ll identify problem-solving skills to manage difficult situations and emotions, develop a greater sense of confidence, increase safety and improve mood, functioning, and behavior.
I’m trained and experienced in helping folks with anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar disorder, family/relationship issues, perfectionism, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, BPD, and more.
We’ll explore how the past informs current thought, behavioral, and mood patterns. We’ll identify problem-solving skills to manage difficult situations and emotions, develop a greater sense of confidence, increase safety and improve mood, functioning, and behavior.
(202) 759-5432 View (202) 759-5432
Photo of Sharnet Chavis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sharnet Chavis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Family Relationships, LGBTQIA+ Support, Multicultural / Diversity Issues, Self-harm and Suicidal Feelings, Stress Management and Wellness Practices.
Dr. Sharnet Chavis is a clinical social worker that is licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults with diverse needs for over 30 years, specializing in helping them regulate their emotions and develop self-management skills. My background includes Special Education (MS), Mindfulness (CMIP, RYT-200), Wellness (CWP) and DEI initiatives. Additionally, I am committed to promoting mindfulness and movement-based practices to enhance self-management for individuals and those in caregiving roles.
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Family Relationships, LGBTQIA+ Support, Multicultural / Diversity Issues, Self-harm and Suicidal Feelings, Stress Management and Wellness Practices.
Dr. Sharnet Chavis is a clinical social worker that is licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults with diverse needs for over 30 years, specializing in helping them regulate their emotions and develop self-management skills. My background includes Special Education (MS), Mindfulness (CMIP, RYT-200), Wellness (CWP) and DEI initiatives. Additionally, I am committed to promoting mindfulness and movement-based practices to enhance self-management for individuals and those in caregiving roles.
(202) 900-0113 View (202) 900-0113
Photo of Dr. Nicole Hashemian, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Nicole Hashemian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Nicole Hashemian is a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist and has broad experience working with individuals and families with a wide variety of mental health disorders.
Dr. Nicole Hashemian is a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist and has broad experience working with individuals and families with a wide variety of mental health disorders.
(571) 462-6864 View (571) 462-6864
Photo of Kristin Scopelliti, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Kristin Scopelliti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”
(703) 382-5618 View (703) 382-5618
Photo of Julie Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LICSW
Julie Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
TeleMedicine/video conferencing now available. I specialize in adjustment to physical, psychiatric and developmental disabilities. Although I treat a range of issues including anxiety, depression and PTSD. I am a certified Trauma therapist. I do have specific expertise and experience providing counseling for those living with Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan and those struggling with the residuals of traumatic brain injuries. I am licensed to Practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia and the State of New Jersey. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can help you or your family.
TeleMedicine/video conferencing now available. I specialize in adjustment to physical, psychiatric and developmental disabilities. Although I treat a range of issues including anxiety, depression and PTSD. I am a certified Trauma therapist. I do have specific expertise and experience providing counseling for those living with Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan and those struggling with the residuals of traumatic brain injuries. I am licensed to Practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia and the State of New Jersey. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can help you or your family.
(202) 831-1633 View (202) 831-1633
Photo of Jillian Meinhardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Jillian Meinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big feelings? Does your child go from 1-100 in a second? Let's slow down, understand what your child is experiencing and learn together! Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Stages and changes are hard to go through alone, luckily, you don't have to. With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, I understand the pressures of kids and families today. I use creative tools to connect with you and your child.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big feelings? Does your child go from 1-100 in a second? Let's slow down, understand what your child is experiencing and learn together! Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Stages and changes are hard to go through alone, luckily, you don't have to. With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, I understand the pressures of kids and families today. I use creative tools to connect with you and your child.
(202) 875-6450 View (202) 875-6450
Photo of Meredith Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a compassionate and culturally competent LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) who creates a warm, honest, and gentle space for clients to explore their inner worlds. Drawing from trauma-informed care, narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy for framework, I help clients understand the different parts of themselves and work collaboratively to foster healing and personal growth.
I am a compassionate and culturally competent LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) who creates a warm, honest, and gentle space for clients to explore their inner worlds. Drawing from trauma-informed care, narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy for framework, I help clients understand the different parts of themselves and work collaboratively to foster healing and personal growth.
(833) 365-7810 View (833) 365-7810
Photo of Brittaneyrose Shelton - Christ & Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Christ & Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Brittaneyrose, a licensed therapist serving clients in the DMV area and Michigan. My approach to therapy is collaborative, where the real transformation happens both inside and outside our sessions. I encourage self-work (homework) to empower you, because the growth is yours to claim. My role is to help you make sense of your journey and bring clarity to what you’re experiencing. I specialize in supporting women ages 21-65 who are navigating life post-breakup or divorce. I also work with married couples looking to repair and strengthen their relationships through the transformative process of Marriage Therapy.
Welcome! I’m Brittaneyrose, a licensed therapist serving clients in the DMV area and Michigan. My approach to therapy is collaborative, where the real transformation happens both inside and outside our sessions. I encourage self-work (homework) to empower you, because the growth is yours to claim. My role is to help you make sense of your journey and bring clarity to what you’re experiencing. I specialize in supporting women ages 21-65 who are navigating life post-breakup or divorce. I also work with married couples looking to repair and strengthen their relationships through the transformative process of Marriage Therapy.
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Photo of Jennifer Wiggins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jennifer Wiggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have a Master's of Arts in Clinical Psychology and 11+ years of clinical, teaching and project management experience. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with adults with mood and anxiety disorders, marginalized and vulnerable populations, trauma, and high achieving populations.
I have a Master's of Arts in Clinical Psychology and 11+ years of clinical, teaching and project management experience. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with adults with mood and anxiety disorders, marginalized and vulnerable populations, trauma, and high achieving populations.
(202) 980-1642 View (202) 980-1642
Photo of Victoria Yeboah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Victoria Yeboah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I support men and women through teenage, young adult and middle age years to sadness, worry, chronic illness, concentration or procrastination, adjustment to changes in family structure, guilt, career or school stressors, life transitions, family-of-origin relationship challenges, grief and more. Together we will identify some of your strengths and leverage them to address your challenges and pain. We'll process past or ongoing experiences that cause or maintain anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, ASD and distress and identify appropriate strategies to alleviate or eliminate these difficulties and symptoms.
I support men and women through teenage, young adult and middle age years to sadness, worry, chronic illness, concentration or procrastination, adjustment to changes in family structure, guilt, career or school stressors, life transitions, family-of-origin relationship challenges, grief and more. Together we will identify some of your strengths and leverage them to address your challenges and pain. We'll process past or ongoing experiences that cause or maintain anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, ASD and distress and identify appropriate strategies to alleviate or eliminate these difficulties and symptoms.
(202) 937-1675 View (202) 937-1675
Photo of Nadia Marisa Tourinho - TrueYou Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
TrueYou Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
(202) 804-9398 View (202) 804-9398
Photo of Chou Hallegra - Grace & Hope for Families, MA
Grace & Hope for Families
MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
We empower diverse families to overcome obstacles, while promoting equity, unity, and opportunity for all. We take a special focus on families impacted by chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, minority youth and their families, single-parent families, and blended families. Your journey can be overwhelming, but you are not alone! Whether you need support navigating parenting and caregiving for yourself or your loved one, or need help working on family dynamics, work-life balance, and reducing stress, we are here for you!
We empower diverse families to overcome obstacles, while promoting equity, unity, and opportunity for all. We take a special focus on families impacted by chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, minority youth and their families, single-parent families, and blended families. Your journey can be overwhelming, but you are not alone! Whether you need support navigating parenting and caregiving for yourself or your loved one, or need help working on family dynamics, work-life balance, and reducing stress, we are here for you!
(717) 502-9314 View (717) 502-9314
Photo of Davina Abujudeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Davina Abujudeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with a wide range of individuals. I have several years of experience working with the refugee community, including completing psychological evaluations for asylum seekers. I also have several years of experience working with young professionals and college students in a private practice setting.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with a wide range of individuals. I have several years of experience working with the refugee community, including completing psychological evaluations for asylum seekers. I also have several years of experience working with young professionals and college students in a private practice setting.
(202) 915-2663 View (202) 915-2663
Photo of Joanne Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Joanne Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! My name is Joanne and I am part of a practice that validates and supports individual's unique life stories with empathy, curiosity, and with no judgment. Our goal is to provide a safe space where individuals can work collaboratively to unlearn limiting thoughts and behaviors by replacing them with healthier strategies to cope with changes and manage stress.
Welcome! My name is Joanne and I am part of a practice that validates and supports individual's unique life stories with empathy, curiosity, and with no judgment. Our goal is to provide a safe space where individuals can work collaboratively to unlearn limiting thoughts and behaviors by replacing them with healthier strategies to cope with changes and manage stress.
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Photo of Dr. LaNail R. Plummer, Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Dr. LaNail R. Plummer
Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
(202) 803-8556 View (202) 803-8556
Photo of Evan Tokarz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MA
Evan Tokarz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges? You're not alone. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, addressing life/job transitions, relationships, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, high-functioning ASD & more. There's no one-size-fits-all solution. Together, we'll tailor our approach to best understand you. We’ll uncover patterns, address root causes, and build actionable skills. I use a mix of Rogerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other research-based-approaches to help you grow and boost confidence—empowering you to make lasting change.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges? You're not alone. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, addressing life/job transitions, relationships, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, high-functioning ASD & more. There's no one-size-fits-all solution. Together, we'll tailor our approach to best understand you. We’ll uncover patterns, address root causes, and build actionable skills. I use a mix of Rogerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other research-based-approaches to help you grow and boost confidence—empowering you to make lasting change.
(202) 991-3128 View (202) 991-3128
Photo of Rebecca Correll - Melrose Family Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, BCBA, MA, PhD
Melrose Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, BCBA, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that every family and individual deserves access to compassionate, evidence-based care. We understand that each family is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the challenges they may face. That's why we work closely with our clients to create personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs.
Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that every family and individual deserves access to compassionate, evidence-based care. We understand that each family is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the challenges they may face. That's why we work closely with our clients to create personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs.
(860) 264-0555 View (860) 264-0555
Photo of Emily Rizzo - The Counseling Center of Washington, DC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
The Counseling Center of Washington, DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
(301) 900-3642 View (301) 900-3642
Photo of Melissa Melendez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Melissa Melendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi! I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depressive disorders, grieving, self-esteem, social skills, and relationship issues. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to incorporate cultural competence in my therapeutic practice. I believe it’s crucial to provide psychotherapy and preventative services to clients from diverse backgrounds who may be unaware of potential warning signs and risk factors associated with mental health disorders.
Hi! I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depressive disorders, grieving, self-esteem, social skills, and relationship issues. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to incorporate cultural competence in my therapeutic practice. I believe it’s crucial to provide psychotherapy and preventative services to clients from diverse backgrounds who may be unaware of potential warning signs and risk factors associated with mental health disorders.
(301) 769-7528 View (301) 769-7528
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See more therapy options for Shaw, Washington

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.