Autism Therapists in Highland Park, NJ
I support LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx & Neurodivergent individuals navigating Identity, Trauma, Chronic Illness, and Systemic Barriers.
Finding the right therapist is truly about finding the right connection. I believe therapy should be a space where you never have to mask or explain away your identity. You are a whole person, and your path to healing should honor your full lived lived experience. My approach is flexible and collaborative, moving away from "one-size-fits-all" solutions to tailor our work to your specific needs. I’m here to walk alongside you, honoring your unique story and helping you build a life that feels authentic and empowering.
I support LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx & Neurodivergent individuals navigating Identity, Trauma, Chronic Illness, and Systemic Barriers.
Finding the right therapist is truly about finding the right connection. I believe therapy should be a space where you never have to mask or explain away your identity. You are a whole person, and your path to healing should honor your full lived lived experience. My approach is flexible and collaborative, moving away from "one-size-fits-all" solutions to tailor our work to your specific needs. I’m here to walk alongside you, honoring your unique story and helping you build a life that feels authentic and empowering.
We provide CBT for youth with anxiety disorders, trichotillomania, Tourette syndrome, ADHD and disruptive behavior, school refusal, autism and feeding disorders (e.g., ARFID).
We started the Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy with one mission: to help children, adolescents, and young adults live more meaningful and productive lives. Both raising a child and being one are tall orders in today’s climate. And having a psychological condition often compounds the challenges. We envision a world where youth can succeed, both in spite of their challenges and because of them; where they will develop and implement the skills to overcome their challenges; and where they believe that they can accomplish anything to which they put their minds.
We provide CBT for youth with anxiety disorders, trichotillomania, Tourette syndrome, ADHD and disruptive behavior, school refusal, autism and feeding disorders (e.g., ARFID).
We started the Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy with one mission: to help children, adolescents, and young adults live more meaningful and productive lives. Both raising a child and being one are tall orders in today’s climate. And having a psychological condition often compounds the challenges. We envision a world where youth can succeed, both in spite of their challenges and because of them; where they will develop and implement the skills to overcome their challenges; and where they believe that they can accomplish anything to which they put their minds.
My practice specializes in working with ADHD, Autistic and Neurodivergent adults, teens and their families.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and based on what the client tells me about themselves, their strengths and challenges. I do not believe one size fits all.
My practice specializes in working with ADHD, Autistic and Neurodivergent adults, teens and their families.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and based on what the client tells me about themselves, their strengths and challenges. I do not believe one size fits all.
I work with clients who often deal with multiple diagnoses, including a neurodivergent diagnosis.
The most skilled therapist helps clients process stressful experiences and/or trauma by developing tools for managing difficult emotional responses and gaining confidence in their ability to make good choices for themselves, which I look forward to doing with you!
As your therapist, I am here to help you reach your short- and long-term goals, while also providing a safe space to share your feelings, thoughts, and challenges.
I work with clients who often deal with multiple diagnoses, including a neurodivergent diagnosis.
The most skilled therapist helps clients process stressful experiences and/or trauma by developing tools for managing difficult emotional responses and gaining confidence in their ability to make good choices for themselves, which I look forward to doing with you!
As your therapist, I am here to help you reach your short- and long-term goals, while also providing a safe space to share your feelings, thoughts, and challenges.
I am an expert in developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders.
I rely heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I utilize mindfulness techniques as well. My current practice includes individuals who have a variety of different issues. My goal is for short term therapy that is problem-focused but I have clients whom I have been treating for more than a year.
I am an expert in developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders.
I rely heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I utilize mindfulness techniques as well. My current practice includes individuals who have a variety of different issues. My goal is for short term therapy that is problem-focused but I have clients whom I have been treating for more than a year.
I specialize in the evaluation and cognitive-behavioral treatment of youth with Tourette syndrome, the range of anxiety disorders, OCD, trichotillomania (hairpulling), ADHD and disruptive behavior, school refusal/avoidance, and autism spectrum disorders.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist and founder of the Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy in East Brunswick, NJ, where I provide therapy, school-based consultations, and professional development workshops focusing on the evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents with a variety of social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. My treatment approach utilizes research-supported techniques to treat clients according to their individualized needs. Additionally, I collaborate with parents, school personnel, and medical providers, and perform school-based observations when appropriate. I am passionate about helping and strive to provide straightforward feedback, a clear plan, and practical strategies.
I specialize in the evaluation and cognitive-behavioral treatment of youth with Tourette syndrome, the range of anxiety disorders, OCD, trichotillomania (hairpulling), ADHD and disruptive behavior, school refusal/avoidance, and autism spectrum disorders.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist and founder of the Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy in East Brunswick, NJ, where I provide therapy, school-based consultations, and professional development workshops focusing on the evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents with a variety of social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. My treatment approach utilizes research-supported techniques to treat clients according to their individualized needs. Additionally, I collaborate with parents, school personnel, and medical providers, and perform school-based observations when appropriate. I am passionate about helping and strive to provide straightforward feedback, a clear plan, and practical strategies.
Some may be on the autism spectrum or need support building social and coping skills.
I use a collaborative, client-centered approach grounded in evidence-based strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. I focus on emotional awareness, communication, and coping skills. Depending on the client's needs, I also incorporate creative and nature based activities.
Some may be on the autism spectrum or need support building social and coping skills.
I use a collaborative, client-centered approach grounded in evidence-based strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. I focus on emotional awareness, communication, and coping skills. Depending on the client's needs, I also incorporate creative and nature based activities.
I am a Latina Licensed Associate Counselor passionate and dedicated to helping my clients work through the inevitable complexities of life and our human nature. I work with my clients to process current challenges and identifying realistic goals that align with the individual's values and the change they want to see and feel in their lives. Therapy is a journey and I am here to create a safe space for you, and help you foster self-care and compassionate practices.
I am a Latina Licensed Associate Counselor passionate and dedicated to helping my clients work through the inevitable complexities of life and our human nature. I work with my clients to process current challenges and identifying realistic goals that align with the individual's values and the change they want to see and feel in their lives. Therapy is a journey and I am here to create a safe space for you, and help you foster self-care and compassionate practices.
We all want happiness. But at some point in our lives we may feel stuck or face certain challenges and having the support of a caring therapist can help you understand more clearly what is going on and create new ways to think about yourself and your relationship with others. Therapy should be as unique as you are. While struggle is universal, people respond differently to different types of interventions; so I will tailor your treatment to respond to your specific needs, personality, situation, relationship, and comfort level. In addition to therapy I also provide Life Coaching.
We all want happiness. But at some point in our lives we may feel stuck or face certain challenges and having the support of a caring therapist can help you understand more clearly what is going on and create new ways to think about yourself and your relationship with others. Therapy should be as unique as you are. While struggle is universal, people respond differently to different types of interventions; so I will tailor your treatment to respond to your specific needs, personality, situation, relationship, and comfort level. In addition to therapy I also provide Life Coaching.
If you are seeing this message, I am proud of you and know it is not easy for you (and/or your child) to be in this stage of life. Working with youth up to 18 years, the typical concerns my clients (and caregiver) express are behavioral challenges, attention difficulties, low self-esteem, interpersonal issues, mood, anxiety, trauma, family concerns and life cycle transitions. Therapy can provide assistance understanding emotions, behaviors and creating an emotional toolbox (coping skills) that they can access at times of distress to manage their symptoms.
If you are seeing this message, I am proud of you and know it is not easy for you (and/or your child) to be in this stage of life. Working with youth up to 18 years, the typical concerns my clients (and caregiver) express are behavioral challenges, attention difficulties, low self-esteem, interpersonal issues, mood, anxiety, trauma, family concerns and life cycle transitions. Therapy can provide assistance understanding emotions, behaviors and creating an emotional toolbox (coping skills) that they can access at times of distress to manage their symptoms.
They may grapple with big emotions, behavioral challenges, or navigating life through the lens of neurodivergence (such as ADHD or autism).
I use a multimodal, flexible approach tailored to each client’s needs, blending CBT, strength-based strategies, motivational interviewing, play and art therapy, and targeted ERP and DBT techniques. My goal is to empower clients with practical tools we'll build practical, everyday skills to ease anxiety, boost self-esteem, and navigate big emotions.
They may grapple with big emotions, behavioral challenges, or navigating life through the lens of neurodivergence (such as ADHD or autism).
I use a multimodal, flexible approach tailored to each client’s needs, blending CBT, strength-based strategies, motivational interviewing, play and art therapy, and targeted ERP and DBT techniques. My goal is to empower clients with practical tools we'll build practical, everyday skills to ease anxiety, boost self-esteem, and navigate big emotions.
In addition to therapy, I offer psychological testing for children and adults in the areas of cognitive/learning issues, emotional disorders, ADHD, and Autism.
Sometimes life seems difficult or impossible to cope with. Maybe there are goals you haven't achieved or behaviors you have wanted to change, but haven't been able to for some reason. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting stress, loss, or are coping with past or current trauma, psychotherapy can help. It can be that crucial first step towards improving your life and achieving your goals. I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, career angst, and grief/loss.
In addition to therapy, I offer psychological testing for children and adults in the areas of cognitive/learning issues, emotional disorders, ADHD, and Autism.
Sometimes life seems difficult or impossible to cope with. Maybe there are goals you haven't achieved or behaviors you have wanted to change, but haven't been able to for some reason. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting stress, loss, or are coping with past or current trauma, psychotherapy can help. It can be that crucial first step towards improving your life and achieving your goals. I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, career angst, and grief/loss.
Therapy is about feeling better. It's a learning process. It requires a comfortable atmosphere, conducive to talking and expressing inner feelings. I try to create this environment by offering respect, sensitivity and compassion. I bring enthusiasm, and hope to the therapeutic process, as well as insight and creativity. This, in turn, helps one to develop an understanding of one's self and one's circumstances, and thus, the process of change begins, where one can acquire an ability to tackle whatever the challenge may be.
Therapy is about feeling better. It's a learning process. It requires a comfortable atmosphere, conducive to talking and expressing inner feelings. I try to create this environment by offering respect, sensitivity and compassion. I bring enthusiasm, and hope to the therapeutic process, as well as insight and creativity. This, in turn, helps one to develop an understanding of one's self and one's circumstances, and thus, the process of change begins, where one can acquire an ability to tackle whatever the challenge may be.
If you are highly sensitive, creative, intelligent or even seen as “intense,” underlying factors such as giftedness, learning differences or ADHD/ ASD may play a role.
Perhaps your neurodivergence is linked to a physical condition or chronic illness such as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, long Covid or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). I also work with parents whose young adult has medical or other disabilities that can complicate their journey to independence.
If you are highly sensitive, creative, intelligent or even seen as “intense,” underlying factors such as giftedness, learning differences or ADHD/ ASD may play a role.
Perhaps your neurodivergence is linked to a physical condition or chronic illness such as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, long Covid or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). I also work with parents whose young adult has medical or other disabilities that can complicate their journey to independence.
My areas of expertise include learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and social-emotional functioning.
We all tell stories to and about ourselves. The stories we tell can empower us, and sometimes we find that our stories do not serve us. At its core, therapy is a safe space for you to tell your story. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I value the story each person has to tell. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach allows me to collaborate with you, to understand your experiences and where you may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. I will support you in the process of gaining insight, in order to facilitate meaningful change. I strive to build a strong bond with my clients, to help you feel more at ease within yourself.
My areas of expertise include learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and social-emotional functioning.
We all tell stories to and about ourselves. The stories we tell can empower us, and sometimes we find that our stories do not serve us. At its core, therapy is a safe space for you to tell your story. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I value the story each person has to tell. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach allows me to collaborate with you, to understand your experiences and where you may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. I will support you in the process of gaining insight, in order to facilitate meaningful change. I strive to build a strong bond with my clients, to help you feel more at ease within yourself.
I strive to provide a welcoming, affirming space for clients of all identities and experiences including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD, OCD), Disability and Chronic Illness.
Hi! I'm so glad you're here! I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with a disability (Cerebral Palsy) in New Jersey. Incorporating tools like CBT, DBT and IFS, I help clients with trauma, depression, anxiety and more. I see healing as a fluid dance between the past, present and future. I'd love to be your partner in whatever season of life you're currently in.
I strive to provide a welcoming, affirming space for clients of all identities and experiences including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD, OCD), Disability and Chronic Illness.
Hi! I'm so glad you're here! I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with a disability (Cerebral Palsy) in New Jersey. Incorporating tools like CBT, DBT and IFS, I help clients with trauma, depression, anxiety and more. I see healing as a fluid dance between the past, present and future. I'd love to be your partner in whatever season of life you're currently in.
Watching a child, or yourself, struggle with depression, anxiety, focus, or school demands can be exhausting. You may see meltdowns over homework, worry about slipping grades, or notice a growing cloud of self-doubt. My job is to turn that stress into steady progress with practical, evidence-based tools and a good dose of encouragement along the way.
I’m Dr. Shepherd, a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other proven methods, I work with children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning differences, Tourette/tic disorders, behavior challenges & more.
Watching a child, or yourself, struggle with depression, anxiety, focus, or school demands can be exhausting. You may see meltdowns over homework, worry about slipping grades, or notice a growing cloud of self-doubt. My job is to turn that stress into steady progress with practical, evidence-based tools and a good dose of encouragement along the way.
I’m Dr. Shepherd, a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other proven methods, I work with children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning differences, Tourette/tic disorders, behavior challenges & more.
I provide comprehensive psychological assessments for adults and teens, including ADHD and Autism evaluations, educational testing, and diagnostic assessments to guide treatment.
I'm also a relational trauma therapist. I work with clients who have experienced trauma/relational stress in their family of origin, the mental health system, spiritual abuse, grief, complicated grief, or who have experienced trauma surrounding their gender identity or sexual orientation. Many of my clients are diagnosd with Autism, ADHD, OCD, or Bipolar.
I provide comprehensive psychological assessments for adults and teens, including ADHD and Autism evaluations, educational testing, and diagnostic assessments to guide treatment.
I'm also a relational trauma therapist. I work with clients who have experienced trauma/relational stress in their family of origin, the mental health system, spiritual abuse, grief, complicated grief, or who have experienced trauma surrounding their gender identity or sexual orientation. Many of my clients are diagnosd with Autism, ADHD, OCD, or Bipolar.
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.
Is simply talking not helping you to heal in the ways you know are possible? Do you know what actions will help you, but find that the emotions and body refuse to follow? Are you looking for deep healing that acknowledges the complexity of external factors, yet allows you to go deep into your body, your consciousness, and creativity to access the healing within you? If these words resonate with you, I'd love to explore with you. I use many unconventional tools that we can fit to match your intentions, alongside talk therapy.
I expressly accept most insurance because of my desire to offer quality therapy not typically covered.
Is simply talking not helping you to heal in the ways you know are possible? Do you know what actions will help you, but find that the emotions and body refuse to follow? Are you looking for deep healing that acknowledges the complexity of external factors, yet allows you to go deep into your body, your consciousness, and creativity to access the healing within you? If these words resonate with you, I'd love to explore with you. I use many unconventional tools that we can fit to match your intentions, alongside talk therapy.
I expressly accept most insurance because of my desire to offer quality therapy not typically covered.
See more therapy options for Highland Park
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Highland Park
- East Brunswick
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- Middlesex
- New Brunswick
- North Brunswick
- Piscataway
- Plainfield
- Sayreville
- Somerset
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- South Plainfield
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.