Autism Therapists in Shaw, Washington, DC

Photo of Dr. Nicole Hashemian - Ekdom Neuropsychology Group - Dr. Nicole Hashemian, Psychologist, PsyD
You might be worried about ADHD, Autism, or a hidden learning disorder, and you need more than just a label—you need a roadmap.
I specialize in pediatric neuropsychology, offering expert evaluations for ADHD, Autism, and learning disabilities. With training from Children’s National and research expertise in the link between concussions and ADHD, I provide gold-standard testing. My goal is to give you a clear diagnosis and a specific plan to support your child’s learning.
You might be worried about ADHD, Autism, or a hidden learning disorder, and you need more than just a label—you need a roadmap.
I specialize in pediatric neuropsychology, offering expert evaluations for ADHD, Autism, and learning disabilities. With training from Children’s National and research expertise in the link between concussions and ADHD, I provide gold-standard testing. My goal is to give you a clear diagnosis and a specific plan to support your child’s learning.
(571) 462-6864 View (571) 462-6864
Photo of Julie Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LICSW
Julie Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
TeleMedicine/video conferencing now available. I specialize in adjustment to physical and developmental disabilities. I treat a range of issues including anxiety, depression and PTSD. I am a certified Trauma therapist with specific training for those that have survived terror. I have specific expertise and experience providing counseling for those living with Spectrum Disorder, Brain Injuries, and those with speech disorders. 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 and developmental disabilities. I treat a range of issues including anxiety, depression and PTSD. I am a certified Trauma therapist with specific training for those that have survived terror. I have specific expertise and experience providing counseling for those living with Spectrum Disorder, Brain Injuries, and those with speech disorders. 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
Serves Area
Are you the parent of a child, tween or teen with big feelings? Maybe worries peak at bedtime, meltdowns hit after school or frustration quickly spirals out of control?Perhaps your child is adjusting to middle school friendships or the challenges of a new team, changes in the family or just needs a little extra support right now. At The Bari Group, we specialize in helping kids, teens and families find calm in the middle of big feelings, while building the tools and confidence to move forward without shame or blame.
Are you the parent of a child, tween or teen with big feelings? Maybe worries peak at bedtime, meltdowns hit after school or frustration quickly spirals out of control?Perhaps your child is adjusting to middle school friendships or the challenges of a new team, changes in the family or just needs a little extra support right now. At The Bari Group, we specialize in helping kids, teens and families find calm in the middle of big feelings, while building the tools and confidence to move forward without shame or blame.
(202) 875-6450 View (202) 875-6450
Photo of Kristin Scopelliti, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Kristin Scopelliti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kristin offers a range of specialized services, including individual psychotherapy, neurodivergent-affirming therapy, eating disorder treatment, narcissistic abuse recovery, therapy for therapists, and clinical supervision.
Maybe you’re great at supporting others but feel lost when it comes to caring for yourself. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of worry, self-doubt, or exhaustion. Perhaps you’ve experienced toxic relationships, ongoing stress, struggles with food and body image, or or feel unseen in a world that doesn’t always feel welcoming. You want more than just “getting by” - you want to feel secure in yourself, free from old patterns, and able to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Kristin offers a range of specialized services, including individual psychotherapy, neurodivergent-affirming therapy, eating disorder treatment, narcissistic abuse recovery, therapy for therapists, and clinical supervision.
Maybe you’re great at supporting others but feel lost when it comes to caring for yourself. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of worry, self-doubt, or exhaustion. Perhaps you’ve experienced toxic relationships, ongoing stress, struggles with food and body image, or or feel unseen in a world that doesn’t always feel welcoming. You want more than just “getting by” - you want to feel secure in yourself, free from old patterns, and able to move forward with clarity and confidence.
(703) 382-5618 View (703) 382-5618
Photo of Jennifer Dodd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CA, WA, OR, DC & MD
Jennifer Dodd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CA, WA, OR, DC & MD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
At ELTC, we provide compassionate, trauma-focused, and neurodivergent-affirming care designed to help you heal and grow.
At ELTC, we ensure our care is sensitive to your unique experiences, including how past trauma and neurodiversity can shape your current challenges. We offer neurodivergent-affirming assessments, medication management, and therapy for adults, in addition to consultation services for individuals and providers seeking a deeper understanding of neurodiversity.
At ELTC, we provide compassionate, trauma-focused, and neurodivergent-affirming care designed to help you heal and grow.
At ELTC, we ensure our care is sensitive to your unique experiences, including how past trauma and neurodiversity can shape your current challenges. We offer neurodivergent-affirming assessments, medication management, and therapy for adults, in addition to consultation services for individuals and providers seeking a deeper understanding of neurodiversity.
(503) 386-4207 View (503) 386-4207
Photo of Lucy Rose Freshour, Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Lucy Rose Freshour
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Online Only
I’m especially passionate about working with neurodivergent young adults and LGBTQIA+ populations.
My personal framework incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I’m honored to guide each of my clients through talking about uncomfortable things, celebrating the bright days, and remaining hopeful.
I’m especially passionate about working with neurodivergent young adults and LGBTQIA+ populations.
My personal framework incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I’m honored to guide each of my clients through talking about uncomfortable things, celebrating the bright days, and remaining hopeful.
(202) 759-5432 View (202) 759-5432
Photo of Elle Jessup, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Elle Jessup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you navigating the intersection of being queer and neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t seem to have been built for you?
I work with my clients to find ways to love themselves and others better, in ways that work uniquely for their circumstances. That might include creating systems to manage your chaotic laundry pile, or setting up relationship accommodations with your partner to keep your social battery charged. I have experience with adults, teens, couples, and new parents.
Are you navigating the intersection of being queer and neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t seem to have been built for you?
I work with my clients to find ways to love themselves and others better, in ways that work uniquely for their circumstances. That might include creating systems to manage your chaotic laundry pile, or setting up relationship accommodations with your partner to keep your social battery charged. I have experience with adults, teens, couples, and new parents.
(877) 554-4570 View (877) 554-4570
Photo of Melissa Melendez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Melissa Melendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
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
Photo of Anthony Hain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Anthony Hain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding your world in a state of change? From technology disruption to political disruption, or simply internal stress, everyone faces challenges along the journey. I specialize in psychotherapy with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, navigating emotions, trauma, grief and loss, human sexuality and relationship issues.
Finding your world in a state of change? From technology disruption to political disruption, or simply internal stress, everyone faces challenges along the journey. I specialize in psychotherapy with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, navigating emotions, trauma, grief and loss, human sexuality and relationship issues.
(202) 335-7523 View (202) 335-7523
Photo of Ellie Georgetown - Ellie Georgetown
Ellie Georgetown
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ellie Georgetown isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues at our Ellie Mental Health Clinic in Washington, D.C. - Georgetown. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.
Ellie Georgetown isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues at our Ellie Mental Health Clinic in Washington, D.C. - Georgetown. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.
(202) 858-0807 View (202) 858-0807
Photo of Dr. LaNail R. Plummer, Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Dr. LaNail R. Plummer
Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Serves Area
Life is hard — and most of us keep waiting for it to get easier on its own. But real, lasting change only happens when we build the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual skills to meet life differently. Therapy is where that transformation begins. It is where you learn, practice, and grow, with someone in your corner who truly sees you, honors your story, and refuses to ask you to leave any part of yourself at the door. I am Dr. LaNail R. Plummer — licensed therapist, founder and CEO of Onyx Therapy Group, author, and someone who has spent over 20 years creating space for people the mental health world has too often overlooked.
Life is hard — and most of us keep waiting for it to get easier on its own. But real, lasting change only happens when we build the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual skills to meet life differently. Therapy is where that transformation begins. It is where you learn, practice, and grow, with someone in your corner who truly sees you, honors your story, and refuses to ask you to leave any part of yourself at the door. I am Dr. LaNail R. Plummer — licensed therapist, founder and CEO of Onyx Therapy Group, author, and someone who has spent over 20 years creating space for people the mental health world has too often overlooked.
(202) 803-8556 View (202) 803-8556
Photo of Tracy l Thomas, Psychologist, PsyD
Tracy l Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My therapeutic style is warm, authentic, and interactive. I create a comfortable and non-judgmental working environment for my clients, using empathy, honesty, and a sense of humor. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively - establishing treatment goals that are tailored specifically to the individual client's needs. My clients gain understanding and insight that help alleviate symptoms and create positive life changes. Because the way we think affects the way we feel, I help my clients learn how to identify and challenge negative thinking. These practical skills enable them to maintain the level of progress they make during therapy.
My therapeutic style is warm, authentic, and interactive. I create a comfortable and non-judgmental working environment for my clients, using empathy, honesty, and a sense of humor. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively - establishing treatment goals that are tailored specifically to the individual client's needs. My clients gain understanding and insight that help alleviate symptoms and create positive life changes. Because the way we think affects the way we feel, I help my clients learn how to identify and challenge negative thinking. These practical skills enable them to maintain the level of progress they make during therapy.
(202) 552-0511 View (202) 552-0511
Photo of Kimberley Grimes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Kimberley Grimes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed trying to meet your child’s needs, or alone in supporting your neurodivergent child?
I offer individual, family, and group sessions virtually across Virginia, Maryland, D.C., and Vermont, or in-person in Fairfax, VA. Using evidence-based approaches, including SPACE (a proven anxiety program), I provide personalized care that respects your strengths and helps your family move forward.
Feeling overwhelmed trying to meet your child’s needs, or alone in supporting your neurodivergent child?
I offer individual, family, and group sessions virtually across Virginia, Maryland, D.C., and Vermont, or in-person in Fairfax, VA. Using evidence-based approaches, including SPACE (a proven anxiety program), I provide personalized care that respects your strengths and helps your family move forward.
(571) 946-7965 View (571) 946-7965
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
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 Yaphet Fisseha, Psychologist, PsyD
Yaphet Fisseha
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a nonprofit organization providing exceptional psychological services to children and adults. I provide psychotherapy and comprehensive psychological evaluations to children, teens, and adults. My specialties include anxiety, OCD, depression, life transition, relationship issues, family issues, and general life stress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a nonprofit organization providing exceptional psychological services to children and adults. I provide psychotherapy and comprehensive psychological evaluations to children, teens, and adults. My specialties include anxiety, OCD, depression, life transition, relationship issues, family issues, and general life stress.
(240) 973-3569 View (240) 973-3569
Photo of Leah Wolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leah Wolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person who feels misunderstood?
With intensive DBT training from Columbia University, I bring evidence-based tools that actually work for managing overwhelming emotions. My approach is particularly effective for clients who've tried therapy before without lasting results. I'm committed to neuro-affirmative, antiracist practice and wholeheartedly support all LGBTQ+ identities!
Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person who feels misunderstood?
With intensive DBT training from Columbia University, I bring evidence-based tools that actually work for managing overwhelming emotions. My approach is particularly effective for clients who've tried therapy before without lasting results. I'm committed to neuro-affirmative, antiracist practice and wholeheartedly support all LGBTQ+ identities!
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Photo of Khaliah Sweeney - Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Serves Area
My ideal clients seek support not just for themselves but also to navigate life transitions, understand LGBTQ+ concerns, or cope with autism.
With empathy and person-centered care, I tailor therapy to each individual's unique needs. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapies to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore and grow, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
My ideal clients seek support not just for themselves but also to navigate life transitions, understand LGBTQ+ concerns, or cope with autism.
With empathy and person-centered care, I tailor therapy to each individual's unique needs. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapies to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore and grow, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
(202) 952-3303 View (202) 952-3303
Photo of Joanne Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Joanne Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
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 or couples 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 or couples 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 Katelyn Kennon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Katelyn Kennon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
As someone who has sat on both sides of the therapist’s office, I deeply believe that healing is possible for everyone. I view the main vehicle for this change as connection: with me, with yourself, with your body, with others in your life, with your environment, and with broader social movements and communities. As your therapist, I will invest in building a safe and trustworthy relationship over time, through curiosity, authenticity, and transparency. It’s important to me to understand and address how power, oppression, and your multifaceted identities influence your life, as none of us heal in a vacuum.
As someone who has sat on both sides of the therapist’s office, I deeply believe that healing is possible for everyone. I view the main vehicle for this change as connection: with me, with yourself, with your body, with others in your life, with your environment, and with broader social movements and communities. As your therapist, I will invest in building a safe and trustworthy relationship over time, through curiosity, authenticity, and transparency. It’s important to me to understand and address how power, oppression, and your multifaceted identities influence your life, as none of us heal in a vacuum.
(224) 507-5435 View (224) 507-5435
Photo of Matthew Mason, Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Matthew Mason
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have 25+ years of experience assessing and treating Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and co-occurring disorders.
I specialize in developmental disorders, and have conducted numerous comprehensive assessments. My assessments identify both strengths and support needs, and focus on helping you become the most independent and healthy version of yourself.
I have 25+ years of experience assessing and treating Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and co-occurring disorders.
I specialize in developmental disorders, and have conducted numerous comprehensive assessments. My assessments identify both strengths and support needs, and focus on helping you become the most independent and healthy version of yourself.
(240) 384-5277 View (240) 384-5277

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.