Autism Therapists in Sugar Hill, GA

Photo of Nikki McDonald, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikki McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
I have specialized training in working with children with Autism and their families.
It is my joy and passion to help others in life. I enjoy working with children of all ages. I have experience in Autism, ADHD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, foster care/adoption, couples counseling, teenage life struggles, adult/women's issues, and general phase of life adjustments.
I have specialized training in working with children with Autism and their families.
It is my joy and passion to help others in life. I enjoy working with children of all ages. I have experience in Autism, ADHD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, foster care/adoption, couples counseling, teenage life struggles, adult/women's issues, and general phase of life adjustments.
(678) 940-6061 View (678) 940-6061
Photo of Becca Samelson Webb, BS, MA, LAPC, NCC, Counselor
Becca Samelson Webb
Counselor, BS, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
Are you fully content with your life? My guess is probably not. You probably wish something in your life is different or better. You might want to throw in the towel, give up on life, and avoid the pain altogether. It feels impossible for things to change, so why bother? Maybe you're struggling with intense emotional outbursts, the desire to hurt yourself, or unstable relationships. Or, maybe you find it easier to push away your emotions, avoid triggers, and exert control wherever you can. You don't want to feel the pain. So what can we do about it?
Are you fully content with your life? My guess is probably not. You probably wish something in your life is different or better. You might want to throw in the towel, give up on life, and avoid the pain altogether. It feels impossible for things to change, so why bother? Maybe you're struggling with intense emotional outbursts, the desire to hurt yourself, or unstable relationships. Or, maybe you find it easier to push away your emotions, avoid triggers, and exert control wherever you can. You don't want to feel the pain. So what can we do about it?
(770) 762-6158 View (770) 762-6158
Photo of Mikayla May, MS, NCC, APC, Counselor
Mikayla May
Counselor, MS, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
I believe counseling is a tool that allows for people to uncover inwardly what is being expressed outwardly. Counseling can be insightful and beneficial, but also challenging and raw and real. I strive to be on the counseling journey with my clients as a co-pilot of sorts, allowing them to take the lead on their own emotional and personal growth.
I believe counseling is a tool that allows for people to uncover inwardly what is being expressed outwardly. Counseling can be insightful and beneficial, but also challenging and raw and real. I strive to be on the counseling journey with my clients as a co-pilot of sorts, allowing them to take the lead on their own emotional and personal growth.
(470) 664-4955 View (470) 664-4955
Photo of Naser Kargar - East Counseling and Psychotherapy LLC, naser k, EdS, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
East Counseling and Psychotherapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, naser k, EdS, CPCS
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
I have worked and served in different communities around Georgia in the past 12 years. I am not a laid back clinician and I am active. I interact and pick on my clients a lot. I will confront you! My method of counseling is experiential and is client focused. I don't give advice but if I feel anything about your life, I will tell you for sure. I don't hide myself behind my psychotherapy methods. I see young children for play therapy, couples, and adults and teens with various issues. I am a clinical supervisor and provide group supervision for freshly graduates on Thursdays at 12:30 pm.
I have worked and served in different communities around Georgia in the past 12 years. I am not a laid back clinician and I am active. I interact and pick on my clients a lot. I will confront you! My method of counseling is experiential and is client focused. I don't give advice but if I feel anything about your life, I will tell you for sure. I don't hide myself behind my psychotherapy methods. I see young children for play therapy, couples, and adults and teens with various issues. I am a clinical supervisor and provide group supervision for freshly graduates on Thursdays at 12:30 pm.
(404) 994-3583 View (404) 994-3583
Photo of Clifford Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clifford Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Cliff Johnson and I started counseling other kids when I was 5 years old. I was a pre-therapist at that time and I helped other kids learn social skills and manage their anger and other emotions. So what is counseling? There could be many answers to this question. I help clients 'figure it out'. i.e. identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional stress and confusion. I use Cognitive Behavior Theory and also eclectic methods but these are just methods or tools that
My name is Dr. Cliff Johnson and I started counseling other kids when I was 5 years old. I was a pre-therapist at that time and I helped other kids learn social skills and manage their anger and other emotions. So what is counseling? There could be many answers to this question. I help clients 'figure it out'. i.e. identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional stress and confusion. I use Cognitive Behavior Theory and also eclectic methods but these are just methods or tools that
(678) 931-7765 View (678) 931-7765
Photo of Nicolette Shackelford-Martin, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicolette Shackelford-Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
I provide services that best meet the clients current needs. My goal is to meet you where you are and work with you to get where you want to go. I work with young adults, adolescents, and children as young as preschool age that are having difficulty adjusting in the classroom environment, home environment and/or any life transition. I understand that the most effective way to assist the client is to also work with the family; therefore, parenting and family sessions may be encouraged. Congratulations on taking the first step to do the work.
I provide services that best meet the clients current needs. My goal is to meet you where you are and work with you to get where you want to go. I work with young adults, adolescents, and children as young as preschool age that are having difficulty adjusting in the classroom environment, home environment and/or any life transition. I understand that the most effective way to assist the client is to also work with the family; therefore, parenting and family sessions may be encouraged. Congratulations on taking the first step to do the work.
(404) 586-4267 View (404) 586-4267

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Alaina Conner, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Alaina Conner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
Services provided include assessment of ADHD, learning disabilities, language disorders, behavioral problems, autism, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Welcome to NeuroKids Center! I am dedicated to helping parents find answers about their child's struggles, and providing evidenced-based resources and recommendations to formulate a plan for your child's future. As a licensed psychologist, I primarily conduct neuropsychological evaluations for young children, teens, and young adults. If your child is having difficulties at home or school, don't wait for the problems to get worse! Contact us today.
Services provided include assessment of ADHD, learning disabilities, language disorders, behavioral problems, autism, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Welcome to NeuroKids Center! I am dedicated to helping parents find answers about their child's struggles, and providing evidenced-based resources and recommendations to formulate a plan for your child's future. As a licensed psychologist, I primarily conduct neuropsychological evaluations for young children, teens, and young adults. If your child is having difficulties at home or school, don't wait for the problems to get worse! Contact us today.
(470) 260-5706 View (470) 260-5706
Photo of Line Fleming, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Line Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
Line has partnered with these individuals and families seeking help with chronic illness, disability, anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and life transitions.
Line believes in meeting the clients where they are. She utilizes a person-centered approach to help clients dictate their goals and areas of growth for their unique personal journey. She utilizes various approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused therapies to encourage attainable results. Her approach maintains awareness of the issues and the flexibility to uniquely meet clients’ needs. Line seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with her clients to assist in building on their strengths, meeting their goals, and living the meaningful life they value and desire.
Line has partnered with these individuals and families seeking help with chronic illness, disability, anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and life transitions.
Line believes in meeting the clients where they are. She utilizes a person-centered approach to help clients dictate their goals and areas of growth for their unique personal journey. She utilizes various approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused therapies to encourage attainable results. Her approach maintains awareness of the issues and the flexibility to uniquely meet clients’ needs. Line seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with her clients to assist in building on their strengths, meeting their goals, and living the meaningful life they value and desire.
(678) 990-2575 View (678) 990-2575
Photo of Robert Hunter - Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent, MD
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center provides a wide range of services to include all areas of behavioral health and educational supportive services including autism services and classroom modifications and interventions.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center provides a wide range of services to include all areas of behavioral health and educational supportive services including autism services and classroom modifications and interventions.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
(470) 215-1788 View (470) 215-1788
Photo of Vincentia Paul-Constantin, PhD, LPC, NCC
Vincentia Paul-Constantin
PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
We work extensively with children, individuals and families in areas including autism, anxiety, school issues, emotional disturbances, family conflicts, depression, peer relations, ADD/ADHD and antisocial behaviors.
Are you in search of emotional and behavioral wellness? In need of a culturally competent clinician? Do you experience challenges at home, school, work or in your relationship? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts and displaying maladaptive and self-defeating behaviors? In English, French or Creole, Beautiful Dreamers works to ensure you are able to discover the challenges that affect you in living life to the fullest. We work from a resilience-based, cognitive, solution-focused, trauma-focused model to promote healthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. We are EMDR Trained, Certified in Anger Management and Reunification Therapy.
We work extensively with children, individuals and families in areas including autism, anxiety, school issues, emotional disturbances, family conflicts, depression, peer relations, ADD/ADHD and antisocial behaviors.
Are you in search of emotional and behavioral wellness? In need of a culturally competent clinician? Do you experience challenges at home, school, work or in your relationship? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts and displaying maladaptive and self-defeating behaviors? In English, French or Creole, Beautiful Dreamers works to ensure you are able to discover the challenges that affect you in living life to the fullest. We work from a resilience-based, cognitive, solution-focused, trauma-focused model to promote healthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. We are EMDR Trained, Certified in Anger Management and Reunification Therapy.
(470) 635-5856 View (470) 635-5856
Photo of Sam Marion, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Marion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Hey! I'm Sam Marion, a Clinical Social Worker with a lifetime of experience as a multiply neurodivergent person. My neurodivergences include being autistic (PDA profile), ADHD, gifted, a reading disability, and a tic. I support individuals and families who are dealing with these same challenges. So many of my first conversations with families are about a young person who is burned out, but often the parents and entire family are burned out too. People are looking for hope and steps to take, and I come alongside a family to do just that.
Hey! I'm Sam Marion, a Clinical Social Worker with a lifetime of experience as a multiply neurodivergent person. My neurodivergences include being autistic (PDA profile), ADHD, gifted, a reading disability, and a tic. I support individuals and families who are dealing with these same challenges. So many of my first conversations with families are about a young person who is burned out, but often the parents and entire family are burned out too. People are looking for hope and steps to take, and I come alongside a family to do just that.
(470) 333-3853 View (470) 333-3853
Photo of Darby Lynette Thorne, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Darby Lynette Thorne
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I specialize in offering adolescents a safe space to express themselves, explore their identities, and develop strategies to cope with the unique challenges they face. I empower clients to manage their anxiety and navigate changes by employing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. Fostering a strong sense of self-esteem and identity is essential for personal growth. As a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community, I provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can openly discuss their experiences, concerns, and aspirations related to their identity.
I specialize in offering adolescents a safe space to express themselves, explore their identities, and develop strategies to cope with the unique challenges they face. I empower clients to manage their anxiety and navigate changes by employing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. Fostering a strong sense of self-esteem and identity is essential for personal growth. As a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community, I provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can openly discuss their experiences, concerns, and aspirations related to their identity.
(470) 266-3205 View (470) 266-3205
Photo of Dr. Chuck Cancilla, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chuck Cancilla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
As a Christian, my faith offers a strong compass for all I do. As a veteran, clinical psychologist, and school psychologist with 6 degrees and 28 years of experience (20 with Gwinnett County Public Schools), this compass has been pivotal in helping others. I specialize in two areas: (1) Psychological and psycho-educational evaluations, having completed thousands of evaluations with students ages 4-22; and (2) Treatment of ADHD, either in traditional therapy or a highly specialized martial arts program that develops skills and reduces symptoms medications alone do not improve (see "Groups" below).
As a Christian, my faith offers a strong compass for all I do. As a veteran, clinical psychologist, and school psychologist with 6 degrees and 28 years of experience (20 with Gwinnett County Public Schools), this compass has been pivotal in helping others. I specialize in two areas: (1) Psychological and psycho-educational evaluations, having completed thousands of evaluations with students ages 4-22; and (2) Treatment of ADHD, either in traditional therapy or a highly specialized martial arts program that develops skills and reduces symptoms medications alone do not improve (see "Groups" below).
(470) 210-3130 View (470) 210-3130
Photo of Amber Illum, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Illum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I received my Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University in Evanston IL in 2002. I approach each client as an individual and create a treatment plan that focuses on their strengths and personal goals. I believe every person is unique and strive to meet them where they are in life and support them through many of life's challenges and transitions.
I received my Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University in Evanston IL in 2002. I approach each client as an individual and create a treatment plan that focuses on their strengths and personal goals. I believe every person is unique and strive to meet them where they are in life and support them through many of life's challenges and transitions.
(678) 929-6090 View (678) 929-6090
Photo of Shania Richards, NCC, APC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shania Richards
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Is your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional regulation that affects their schoolwork and time with you at home? Do you feel unsure on how to help them navigate their childhood and adolescence and manage their stress? Do you want them to feel empowered and confident while going about their daily life? Now more than ever, children and adolescents are struggling with managing their emotions and coping with anxiety and overwhelm. I believe children can learn coping skills for their stress and flourish.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional regulation that affects their schoolwork and time with you at home? Do you feel unsure on how to help them navigate their childhood and adolescence and manage their stress? Do you want them to feel empowered and confident while going about their daily life? Now more than ever, children and adolescents are struggling with managing their emotions and coping with anxiety and overwhelm. I believe children can learn coping skills for their stress and flourish.
(470) 688-2728 View (470) 688-2728
Photo of Dr. Erik R. Schmitt, PhD, LPC
Dr. Erik R. Schmitt
PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
Clinical Focus: Are you a couple that has become distant and disconnected? Or an individual that is struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, anger, or life transition. I would welcome the opportunity using a combination of Gottman for couples and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Person Centered for individuals to bring a sense of hope back into your life. As a University of Georgia graduate with a PhD in Counseling I have the necessary training to work together in a collaborative relationship. An approach that focuses on developing goals together as a couple and rediscovering hope, using structured activities and homework assignments,
Clinical Focus: Are you a couple that has become distant and disconnected? Or an individual that is struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, anger, or life transition. I would welcome the opportunity using a combination of Gottman for couples and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Person Centered for individuals to bring a sense of hope back into your life. As a University of Georgia graduate with a PhD in Counseling I have the necessary training to work together in a collaborative relationship. An approach that focuses on developing goals together as a couple and rediscovering hope, using structured activities and homework assignments,
(770) 202-9888 View (770) 202-9888
Photo of Suzie A McGarvey, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzie A McGarvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I have provided counseling services in several different settings since 1996. I began my career as an Elementary School Counselor, I have worked as a Family Counselor in an addictions program, and as a Child and Adolescent Counselor in a community mental health center. I took some time off in order to be with my two children full-time. After my children entered school, I decided to resume my professional career and went into private practice.
I have provided counseling services in several different settings since 1996. I began my career as an Elementary School Counselor, I have worked as a Family Counselor in an addictions program, and as a Child and Adolescent Counselor in a community mental health center. I took some time off in order to be with my two children full-time. After my children entered school, I decided to resume my professional career and went into private practice.
(770) 450-6238 View (770) 450-6238
Photo of David Jenkins, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional
David Jenkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Clients come to me with a struggle: Teens and Adults struggling to cope, Parents struggling to figure out what their child needs, or Couples struggling to make their relationship work. Usually something big has happened, but sometimes, it is a gradual and insidious downhill spiral that gets you to the point where you say, "I need some help."
Clients come to me with a struggle: Teens and Adults struggling to cope, Parents struggling to figure out what their child needs, or Couples struggling to make their relationship work. Usually something big has happened, but sometimes, it is a gradual and insidious downhill spiral that gets you to the point where you say, "I need some help."
(470) 802-5872 View (470) 802-5872
Kelsey Robins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
(470) 802-8619 View (470) 802-8619
Photo of Joanne González, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanne González
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
Not accepting new clients
Through play and talk therapy, my professional experience can help others work on anxiety, depression, trauma, history of abuse, ADHD difficulties, mental health of students on the Autism Spectrum Disorder, impulse control challenges, mood inconsistency, family needs related to having a family member with special needs, and other drawbacks.
I hope to serve young adults, children, teens, and their families in making better choices, exploring needs, developing strengths, healing trauma, and finding clarity towards change and growth. I would like to help you by fostering and facilitating change, creativity, and searching for solutions.
Through play and talk therapy, my professional experience can help others work on anxiety, depression, trauma, history of abuse, ADHD difficulties, mental health of students on the Autism Spectrum Disorder, impulse control challenges, mood inconsistency, family needs related to having a family member with special needs, and other drawbacks.
I hope to serve young adults, children, teens, and their families in making better choices, exploring needs, developing strengths, healing trauma, and finding clarity towards change and growth. I would like to help you by fostering and facilitating change, creativity, and searching for solutions.

See more therapy options for Sugar Hill

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.