Autism Therapists in Washington, DC

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Photo of Kristin E Scopelliti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Kristin E Scopelliti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified
Verified
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
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Washington, DC 20016
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Photo of Megan M Herbets, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Megan M Herbets
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
Verified
She has experience working with children diagnosed with a range of learning disabilities, Autism and Asperger’s.
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
(202) 743-7505
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Washington, DC 20016
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Photo of Dr. Taylor Day, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Taylor Day
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism . I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
(412) 837-0965
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Washington, DC 20016
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Photo of Griff Doyle, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Griff Doyle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
My involvement with autism involves a 30 year deep immersion in practicing, teaching, and endlessly learning how to effectively improve developmental trajectories for children and adults with neurological-developmental disorders through relationship-based, dyadic interventions.
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
(301) 652-8308
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20016
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Not accepting new clients
Photo of Dr. Kara Goobic, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Kara Goobic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
I have been described as a down-to-earth psychologist who integrates humor and compassion with a pragmatic, problem-solving approach to help clients reach their goals. I provide psychotherapeutic services to adults with autism spectrum, attention deficit, and other co-occurring disorders. My work involves concrete, structured interventions along with support and guidance that can be utilized in different settings. As a specialist in autism spectrum disorders, I also conduct autism spectrum evaluations for adults.
(301) 804-2055
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Jessica Venglarcik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jessica Venglarcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSSA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am an expert in the field of Autism and have worked in this population for 15 years.
I am passionate about working with individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. You can reclaim happiness and peace in your life! I have extensive experience in a number of areas including individuals with Autism , disabled individuals, faith based counseling, depression, anxiety, employment related issues, and general life stressors. The clients I work with are often feeling overwhelmed, and I help them to create space for healing. You are strong, and I'm here to help coach you back to a place of comfort and peace. I promise to provide non judgmental support and encouragement.
(571) 470-7214
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20003
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Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Clare Sarsony, Counselor in Washington, DC
Clare Sarsony
Counselor, LGPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have particular experience working with autism spectrum disorder, family counseling, and play therapy.
We all deserve a space where we can explore and grow into our authentic selves. I can't wait to connect with you and help you feel your best. I'll provide a judgment free space where you can explore what "best" means and how you'd like to get there.
(240) 213-9524
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20012
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Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Aya Behavioral Health, LLC, LPC Intern in Washington, DC
Aya Behavioral Health, LLC
LPC Intern
Verified
Verified
I focus on all types of traumas, such as stress related disorders, and neurodevelopment disorders, such as, intellectual developmental disorder, Autism , Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder ADHD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, insomnia, and personality disorder. I specialize in individual and group therapy with children 8-13, teens 13-18, and adults. I’m also happy to collaborate with families who are struggling with multiculturalism and culturally specific issues due to the transmission of multigenerational trauma.
(202) 933-5976
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Washington, DC 20009
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Photo of Michal Berkson Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Michal Berkson Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified
5 Endorsed
Verified
5 Endorsed
Life has its ups and downs. You want to have the skills, resources, and supports to weather whatever the world throws at you and you want that for your family too. As strong and resourceful as we are, no one has the ability to manage everything, all the time. Every now and then, any one of us could use a little extra help. Maybe you have been feeling more stressed. Maybe you are going through a major life change. Maybe there have been concerns about your child’s development or behavior. Maybe you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a learning or developmental disability, or you want to know more about ADHD, Autism , or Anxiety.
(202) 601-3395
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Washington, DC 20016
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Photo of Danielle Grouse, Counselor in Washington, DC
Danielle Grouse
Counselor, MA, NCC, LGPC
Verified
Verified
As a board certified, licensed graduate professional counselor, I have a passion for working with adolescents and young adults. I have experience working in both community counseling centers and private day schools before beginning in private practice. Through this work, I have had the opportunity to help clients dealing with a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance use, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, and autism spectrum disorders. Oftentimes, clients just need help managing life’s daily stressors.
(202) 953-2193
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Washington, DC 20009
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Photo of Alison Fellowes Comly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alison Fellowes Comly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified
Verified
For children and adults with autism , I am familiar with typing to communicate.
I team with adults, children, and parents to create solutions and awaken aspects of themselves they would like to grow. We work together to heal past pain, strengthen, and to build a fresh start. Our sessions will allow you to take time for yourself to step away from the expectations and pressures of the outside world so that you can feel, see, and build a stronger self. Taking a break from work, school, and life for one or two sessions a week allows for clarity of mind, strengthening of self, and a generation of a new mindset. I will work as your guide in providing you the tools you need to live your life more fully.
(202) 643-7935
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Washington, DC 20015
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Photo of Jeffrey Selman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jeffrey Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified
Verified
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
(202) 221-4370
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Washington, DC 20007
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Photo of Keri Sartin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Keri Sartin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified
Verified
I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist as well as a Certified Child Centered Play Therapist and Sand Tray Therapist.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
(202) 519-4927
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Washington, DC 20008
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Photo of Dr. Francine Baffa, LCSW — Balance, Focus, Support, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Francine Baffa, LCSW — Balance, Focus, Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D
Verified
Verified
Do you feel stuck? Are external obstacles, or your own internal fears, holding you back from living a full and meaningful life? In therapy, you can grow, heal, and move forward. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder are real challenges. You can expect to build lifelong coping skills that enable you to reach your goals and experience sustained healing. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more motivated, and more focused. You can learn to build and sustain healthier and more satisfying relationships with family, work colleagues, and romantic partners. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
(703) 782-3846
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Washington, DC 20005
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Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Joy Natwick, Counselor in Washington, DC
Joy Natwick
Counselor, MS, LGPC, NCC
Verified
Verified
Joy's focus has always been empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential. Prior to joining DTA as a Psychotherapist, Joy provided individual and group therapy and other services to diverse populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma including sexual assault, drug and alcohol use, autism spectrum disorders, and involvement in the foster care system.
(202) 810-1153
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Washington, DC 20016
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Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Amy Oberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Amy Oberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified
Verified
I have experience working with adults, women, and adolescents in my work in DC as a therapist. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma, as well as autism spectrum disorder. I offer support to parents and adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
(202) 946-8063
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Washington, DC 20018
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Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Carol Lee Hilewick Phd, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carol Lee Hilewick Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
My goal is to help patients learn to be responders and to be in charge of themselves. Throughout treatment, a functional medicine approach is employed. Care collaboration is valued. Patients with cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges benefit from a variety of cognitive behavioral, neurobehavioral, and psychophysiological modalities. Patients with such conditions as emotional and physical trauma, chronic pain, addictions, brain injuries and disorders ( autism , Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, motor and balance challenges, for example), sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression are treated. Individuals with neurological, autoimmune, metabolic, endocrinological, and other complex medical conditions find that the treatment modalities promote healing.
(301) 327-2544
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20016
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Photo of Shanice Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Shanice Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified
Verified
What is it for you? Is it the lack of motivation? The Over-thinking? The never feeling good enough or need to be perfect? The “I don’t know who I am?” The loss of identity? The failed relationship/s? The hopelessness? The unexplained sadness? The lack of support? Well life can be very overwhelming and the desperation to feel better as you navigate through life can leave you feeling stuck. I specialize in working with individuals (adults) of color struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem or body image issues, autism , intergenerational and religious trauma, and LGBTQ+. I am dedicated to the Black/Caribbean community.
(240) 204-9140
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20003
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Photo of Kate Lieberman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Kate Lieberman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
, autism ), gender-affirming, and private school admissions testing.
Psychological evaluations are my area of expertise and passion. My goal when conducting assessments is to identify an individual’s areas of strength and weakness in order to provide recommendations for treatment, work and/or school, interpersonal relationships, and daily living. In the context of assessments, I can provide diagnoses and second opinions. A diagnosis is only one aspect of the process, however, and I emphasize understanding underlying cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal processes, and how these combine and manifest in daily life.
(703) 783-7735
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20037
Photo of Michael Brachfeld, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Michael Brachfeld
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
In my practice, I provide psychological services to children, adolescents, adults, and parents, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
What if life's stressors could feel a bit more manageable? What if we could set ambitious, yet realistic goals and accomplish them one-by-one? Despite all of the stressors facing us on a day-to-day basis, positive change is attainable. My approach to therapy is strength-based and involves a warm, collaborative process in which we assess barriers to success, set realistic goals, and monitor progress over time.
(240) 201-2413
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Office is near:
Washington, DC 20015
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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.