Autism Therapists in Frederick, MD

Reed Howell
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
I am a nonbinary and neurodivergent therapist who seeks to cultivate therapeutic relationships with warmth and gentleness.
I have completed EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy and am particularly passionate about using this modality to help clients explore the roots of their experiences and find new ways forward. I believe in the power of connection to our bodies, to our creative selves, and to each other, and seek to foster these
I am a nonbinary and neurodivergent therapist who seeks to cultivate therapeutic relationships with warmth and gentleness.
I have completed EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy and am particularly passionate about using this modality to help clients explore the roots of their experiences and find new ways forward. I believe in the power of connection to our bodies, to our creative selves, and to each other, and seek to foster these
(301) 360-4349 View (301) 360-4349
Melissa Reid
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
" As a neurodivergent clinician, I work with neurodivergent women who are looking to explore these questions so that they can approach their lives from a more confident and grounded sense of self.
In my practice, I utilize client-centered, neuro-affirmative approaches that allow clients to feel deeply validated. By integrating parts work, EMDR, and I-CBT, I help clients not only understand their internal world, but also use that insight to shift patterns that feel stuck or overwhelming.
" As a neurodivergent clinician, I work with neurodivergent women who are looking to explore these questions so that they can approach their lives from a more confident and grounded sense of self.
In my practice, I utilize client-centered, neuro-affirmative approaches that allow clients to feel deeply validated. By integrating parts work, EMDR, and I-CBT, I help clients not only understand their internal world, but also use that insight to shift patterns that feel stuck or overwhelming.
(240) 512-8940 View (240) 512-8940
Emily M. Lewis Counseling (ASD, Grief, Anxiety)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, ASCDS
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with ages 10 and up to build emotional regulation, strengthen communication, and increase flexibility during life transitions, with specialized experience supporting neurodivergent clients on the Autism Spectrum.
I offer a safe, supportive therapy space to help you understand thought patterns, build practical coping skills, and create healthier emotional and behavioral responses. From the first session, we’ll focus on tools you can use right away to support meaningful growth in the areas that matter most to you. I’m here to help you initiate the process.
I work with ages 10 and up to build emotional regulation, strengthen communication, and increase flexibility during life transitions, with specialized experience supporting neurodivergent clients on the Autism Spectrum.
I offer a safe, supportive therapy space to help you understand thought patterns, build practical coping skills, and create healthier emotional and behavioral responses. From the first session, we’ll focus on tools you can use right away to support meaningful growth in the areas that matter most to you. I’m here to help you initiate the process.
(301) 761-8915 View (301) 761-8915
Elissa Samuels
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
I specialize in working with adults who are neurodivergent and may have gone unrecognized or unacknowledged due to their ability to mask their traits.
I support clients in releasing shame, discovering and embracing their true selves, and setting realistic expectations for themselves and others. Together, we focus on leveraging strengths and practicing self-compassion. I teach communication skills and foster the ability to see things from different perspectives, which is beneficial in my work with couples.
I specialize in working with adults who are neurodivergent and may have gone unrecognized or unacknowledged due to their ability to mask their traits.
I support clients in releasing shame, discovering and embracing their true selves, and setting realistic expectations for themselves and others. Together, we focus on leveraging strengths and practicing self-compassion. I teach communication skills and foster the ability to see things from different perspectives, which is beneficial in my work with couples.
(240) 201-2478 x2 View (240) 201-2478 x2
Ikenna Gray Lughna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You're neurodivergent and/or queer trying to figure out how to exist while a part of a world that pushes for "one size fits all
I help by giving you (or your child) a space where you can learn to accept all parts of you (them). Society teaches us to hate aspects of ourselves, which doesn't help with the healing process. Recognizing these aspects also allows us to recognize and advocate for needs we didn't know we had.
You're neurodivergent and/or queer trying to figure out how to exist while a part of a world that pushes for "one size fits all
I help by giving you (or your child) a space where you can learn to accept all parts of you (them). Society teaches us to hate aspects of ourselves, which doesn't help with the healing process. Recognizing these aspects also allows us to recognize and advocate for needs we didn't know we had.
(240) 759-2008 View (240) 759-2008
Madison Harlow
Art Therapist, LCPAT, ATR-BC®
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients! Hi there, I’m Madison- an art therapist who believes healing doesn’t have to happen sitting across from someone on a couch. I work with children, teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, overwhelm, ADHD, life transitions, emotional regulation, or simply feeling stuck. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, creative, and genuinely welcoming- where you can show up exactly as you are. Together, we'll explore what you're carrying, build practical coping skills, strengthen self-expression, and help you feel more confident navigating everyday life.
Accepting new clients! Hi there, I’m Madison- an art therapist who believes healing doesn’t have to happen sitting across from someone on a couch. I work with children, teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, overwhelm, ADHD, life transitions, emotional regulation, or simply feeling stuck. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, creative, and genuinely welcoming- where you can show up exactly as you are. Together, we'll explore what you're carrying, build practical coping skills, strengthen self-expression, and help you feel more confident navigating everyday life.
(443) 785-3790 View (443) 785-3790
Nina Arroyo, LCPC -Specializing in ADHD and Autism
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You might be navigating the complexities of ADHD or autism, feeling overwhelmed by daily routines, or striving to harness your unique strengths.
I specialize in neurodivergent-affirming therapy, blending evidence-based techniques with a deep understanding of what it’s like to live with ADHD and autism. Together, we’ll uncover how your traits can be powerful strengths and develop practical strategies for growth.
You might be navigating the complexities of ADHD or autism, feeling overwhelmed by daily routines, or striving to harness your unique strengths.
I specialize in neurodivergent-affirming therapy, blending evidence-based techniques with a deep understanding of what it’s like to live with ADHD and autism. Together, we’ll uncover how your traits can be powerful strengths and develop practical strategies for growth.
(410) 709-8315 View (410) 709-8315
Meghan Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
Some of the challenges I've helped clients with include substance abuse, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ASD, grief, domestic violence/relationship issues, behavioral issues, and stress management.
I am not here to judge you or tell you what to do. I will listen, provide supportive feedback, and offer suggestions. Life is hard, and I am here to help remind you that you are not alone. You've demonstrated courage in taking the first step. I look forward to meeting you!
Some of the challenges I've helped clients with include substance abuse, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ASD, grief, domestic violence/relationship issues, behavioral issues, and stress management.
I am not here to judge you or tell you what to do. I will listen, provide supportive feedback, and offer suggestions. Life is hard, and I am here to help remind you that you are not alone. You've demonstrated courage in taking the first step. I look forward to meeting you!
(443) 541-4207 View (443) 541-4207
Jessica Hasson
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
These include comprehensive psychological evaluations, psychoeducational evaluations, diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, personality assessment, assessment with 2E Individuals, & Child/Adolescent/Adult Autism Evaluations.
I have always believed that psychological assessment was part of the therapeutic process. Psychological assessment is more than just diagnoses and numbers; it helps provide a better understanding of the human experience. It can bring a sense of explanation to someone’s experience. An evaluation can help the person feel understood, to feel seen. It can further one’s understanding of the self. All of this can help to facilitate change, by identifying patterns and underlying causes of behaviors. Psychological evaluation is therapeutic, it just relies on data and numbers.
These include comprehensive psychological evaluations, psychoeducational evaluations, diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, personality assessment, assessment with 2E Individuals, & Child/Adolescent/Adult Autism Evaluations.
I have always believed that psychological assessment was part of the therapeutic process. Psychological assessment is more than just diagnoses and numbers; it helps provide a better understanding of the human experience. It can bring a sense of explanation to someone’s experience. An evaluation can help the person feel understood, to feel seen. It can further one’s understanding of the self. All of this can help to facilitate change, by identifying patterns and underlying causes of behaviors. Psychological evaluation is therapeutic, it just relies on data and numbers.
(240) 730-4331 View (240) 730-4331
Megan Wainwright
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent and struggling individuals who feel misunderstood and struggle with identity, anxiety, or trauma.
Through a blend of psychodynamic and client-centered approaches, I support you in building self-awareness, staying grounded in your values, and creating space for meaningful change. Whether you're hoping to ease the weight of a tough day or explore deeper patterns, I’m here to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and care
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent and struggling individuals who feel misunderstood and struggle with identity, anxiety, or trauma.
Through a blend of psychodynamic and client-centered approaches, I support you in building self-awareness, staying grounded in your values, and creating space for meaningful change. Whether you're hoping to ease the weight of a tough day or explore deeper patterns, I’m here to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and care
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Rachel Messar-Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Welcome! Thank you for visiting my profile. I have had the privilege of working with children, teens, adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues such as ADHD/ADD, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Behavioral problems,Self esteem, Family Issues and many others. If you, your child or family member are dealing with a specific problem or any unresolved problem that is making you feel "stuck" in life, I am here to listen and work collaboratively with you to improve your life. ***Now accepting Cigna Insurance! ***Now offering Online therapy!!
Welcome! Thank you for visiting my profile. I have had the privilege of working with children, teens, adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues such as ADHD/ADD, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Behavioral problems,Self esteem, Family Issues and many others. If you, your child or family member are dealing with a specific problem or any unresolved problem that is making you feel "stuck" in life, I am here to listen and work collaboratively with you to improve your life. ***Now accepting Cigna Insurance! ***Now offering Online therapy!!
(240) 608-6976 View (240) 608-6976
Hanna Chandler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I am passionate about assisting clients in learning to accept themselves and build self-esteem. I work with my clients to create change in their daily lives. We work together to set and achieve goals, overcome challenges, and accept ourselves unconditionally.
I am passionate about assisting clients in learning to accept themselves and build self-esteem. I work with my clients to create change in their daily lives. We work together to set and achieve goals, overcome challenges, and accept ourselves unconditionally.
(240) 245-2570 View (240) 245-2570
Diane M Ochalek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
Are you looking for better communication with your partner? Are you hoping for a more harmonious family life? You may have a child with special needs, or a blended family. Every family has it's own unique issues and struggles.
Are you looking for better communication with your partner? Are you hoping for a more harmonious family life? You may have a child with special needs, or a blended family. Every family has it's own unique issues and struggles.
(240) 474-9150 View (240) 474-9150
Bruce Kirby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
In my years of professional practice, I've come to understand the profound intricacies of mental health conditions, one of the most compelling and often misunderstood being Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is more than just a term casually thrown around in daily conversations about tidiness or an affinity for order; it’s a challenging and often debilitating condition that has real, tangible impacts on individuals and their loved ones. OCD is not a manifestation of someone merely being "particular" or "meticulous". It is the relentless recurrence of unwelcome thoughts and the intense urge to perform certain behaviors or
In my years of professional practice, I've come to understand the profound intricacies of mental health conditions, one of the most compelling and often misunderstood being Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is more than just a term casually thrown around in daily conversations about tidiness or an affinity for order; it’s a challenging and often debilitating condition that has real, tangible impacts on individuals and their loved ones. OCD is not a manifestation of someone merely being "particular" or "meticulous". It is the relentless recurrence of unwelcome thoughts and the intense urge to perform certain behaviors or
(240) 986-3206 View (240) 986-3206
LPP Therapeutic Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Frederick, MD 21704
Are you ready to make the changes you have always wanted, and finally focus on your happiness, health, and wellness? I would like to congratulate you on taking the hardest first step in this process. My clients are children, teens, adults, and couples that are looking to make positive changes in their life, and I'm here to assist and be a guide in this process. My approach is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying their triggers, reframing their negative thoughts, and using positive psychology to begin a new way of thinking and living.
Are you ready to make the changes you have always wanted, and finally focus on your happiness, health, and wellness? I would like to congratulate you on taking the hardest first step in this process. My clients are children, teens, adults, and couples that are looking to make positive changes in their life, and I'm here to assist and be a guide in this process. My approach is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying their triggers, reframing their negative thoughts, and using positive psychology to begin a new way of thinking and living.
(240) 349-7342 View (240) 349-7342
Tara High
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-SSWS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, Autism, social-emotional problems, trauma and relationship issues.
There are times in life when our experiences can leave us feeling isolated, anxious, unloved, and questioning whether we are “good enough”. We may struggle to trust others or the world around us; doubting, hating, hurting or numbing ourselves in an attempt to alleviate pain. As a therapist , my goal is to help each of my clients feel as comfortable and safe as possible, in a trusting, and supportive environment.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, Autism, social-emotional problems, trauma and relationship issues.
There are times in life when our experiences can leave us feeling isolated, anxious, unloved, and questioning whether we are “good enough”. We may struggle to trust others or the world around us; doubting, hating, hurting or numbing ourselves in an attempt to alleviate pain. As a therapist , my goal is to help each of my clients feel as comfortable and safe as possible, in a trusting, and supportive environment.
(240) 209-9833 View (240) 209-9833
Aayesha Alvi
Counselor, MA, LPC, EdS
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
We all want to be genuinely seen, heard and understood. Whether the pain stems from the past, major life changes or simply feeling lost, therapy is a safe place to express your feelings without the fear of judgement. It is an amazing way to partner up and connect with someone who will support you. In these difficult times, it is important to find someone who can hold space for you to help untangle the web of confusion that may exist within. I aim to create a safe, warm and therapeutic atmosphere. You will be met with someone with a genuine desire to understand and who strongly believes that there is always hope.
We all want to be genuinely seen, heard and understood. Whether the pain stems from the past, major life changes or simply feeling lost, therapy is a safe place to express your feelings without the fear of judgement. It is an amazing way to partner up and connect with someone who will support you. In these difficult times, it is important to find someone who can hold space for you to help untangle the web of confusion that may exist within. I aim to create a safe, warm and therapeutic atmosphere. You will be met with someone with a genuine desire to understand and who strongly believes that there is always hope.
(862) 319-8315 View (862) 319-8315
Malyn S. Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), I work with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, and Substance Use Disorder. I have specialized in working with parents/ caregivers dealing with the challenges of parenting pre-teens and teens over the past six years. I provide a range of mental health services designed to support parents and child-teen relationships.
As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), I work with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, and Substance Use Disorder. I have specialized in working with parents/ caregivers dealing with the challenges of parenting pre-teens and teens over the past six years. I provide a range of mental health services designed to support parents and child-teen relationships.
(240) 866-2463 View (240) 866-2463
AIM Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
AIM Wellness provides therapy, medication management, injection administration, and case management. Our clinical team works with individuals with a wide array of mental health diagnosis. The team specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, among other disorders, and co-occurring medical illnesses as well. Our clinical team works together, along with the client to create individualized treatment plans.
AIM Wellness provides therapy, medication management, injection administration, and case management. Our clinical team works with individuals with a wide array of mental health diagnosis. The team specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, among other disorders, and co-occurring medical illnesses as well. Our clinical team works together, along with the client to create individualized treatment plans.
(240) 219-9893 View (240) 219-9893
Bradley Meadors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
Experience with adults and children with ASD.
I have a passion for helping others and I am committed to the therapeutic journey. I can be your guide in the journey of self improvement. I have experience in treating mental health disorders from a humanistic perspective. With years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, I use an eclectic approach and I trained in various therapeutic techniques. I work with people suffering from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, and other acute disorders, including substance use disorder. I'm currently taking clients and I can be contacted through phone or email.
Experience with adults and children with ASD.
I have a passion for helping others and I am committed to the therapeutic journey. I can be your guide in the journey of self improvement. I have experience in treating mental health disorders from a humanistic perspective. With years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, I use an eclectic approach and I trained in various therapeutic techniques. I work with people suffering from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, and other acute disorders, including substance use disorder. I'm currently taking clients and I can be contacted through phone or email.
(301) 962-2110 View (301) 962-2110

See more therapy options for Frederick

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.