Photo of Jennifer Barnes, Psychologist
Jennifer Barnes
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Psycho-educational assessments are comprehensive and examine difficulties such as possible ADHD, learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and the impact of mental health concerns such as anxiety.
I am a clinical psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help them achieve their optimal mental health. I especially love working with children and teens, and I have extensive experience with this age group. Currently, my focus is on providing psycho-educational assessments to help children and adolescents achieve their maximum potential in their schooling.
Psycho-educational assessments are comprehensive and examine difficulties such as possible ADHD, learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and the impact of mental health concerns such as anxiety.
I am a clinical psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help them achieve their optimal mental health. I especially love working with children and teens, and I have extensive experience with this age group. Currently, my focus is on providing psycho-educational assessments to help children and adolescents achieve their maximum potential in their schooling.
(343) 307-4912 View (343) 307-4912
Photo of Sarah Nugent, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist
Sarah Nugent
Psychologist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
Waitlist for new clients
Sarah specializes in the assessment of complex presentations of youth and adults, including but not limited to, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, as well as Behaviour and Mental Health challenges.
Sarah has more than 10 years of clinical experience working with clients and families in private practice, school, and agency-based settings. Client populations include the age ranges of preschool to adults with a variety of clinical presentations. Sarah's work involves evidence-based assessment and treatment for individuals. The focus is placed on a strength-based model to foster resiliency and the development of an intervention plan to address areas of need.
Sarah specializes in the assessment of complex presentations of youth and adults, including but not limited to, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, as well as Behaviour and Mental Health challenges.
Sarah has more than 10 years of clinical experience working with clients and families in private practice, school, and agency-based settings. Client populations include the age ranges of preschool to adults with a variety of clinical presentations. Sarah's work involves evidence-based assessment and treatment for individuals. The focus is placed on a strength-based model to foster resiliency and the development of an intervention plan to address areas of need.
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Photo of Iris Yusupov Rose, MBA, PhD, CPsych, SP, Psychologist
Iris Yusupov Rose
Psychologist, MBA, PhD, CPsych, SP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist (supervised practice) deeply passionate about supporting neurodivergent adults and older adults. My approach is grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming perspective that recognizes conditions such as autism and ADHD as unique brain differences with inherent strengths and areas that benefit from specialized support. I offer a variety of online services including comprehensive autism/ADHD and mental health assessments, therapy, groups, and consultations.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist (supervised practice) deeply passionate about supporting neurodivergent adults and older adults. My approach is grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming perspective that recognizes conditions such as autism and ADHD as unique brain differences with inherent strengths and areas that benefit from specialized support. I offer a variety of online services including comprehensive autism/ADHD and mental health assessments, therapy, groups, and consultations.
(416) 260-5832 x800 View (416) 260-5832 x800
Photo of Amanda Morgan, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Amanda Morgan
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist in both B.C. and Ontario. I have worked with children and adults with autism, ADHD, developmental delays and learning disabilities for nearly 20yrs. I am also an adjunct professor at Tyndale University where my research studies have focused on ASD.
I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist in both B.C. and Ontario. I have worked with children and adults with autism, ADHD, developmental delays and learning disabilities for nearly 20yrs. I am also an adjunct professor at Tyndale University where my research studies have focused on ASD.
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Photo of Linda Storm, MA, CCC, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Linda Storm
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC, CHyp
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
I work with adults with ADD and Autism, especially those individuals facing trauma, C-PTSD, anxiety, and depression. You may be seeking understanding and therapy - BUT through the lens of your ADHD or Autism. My methods are adapted to accommodate your sensory experiences and how you perceive life. I work with a neurodiverse model of differences, not deficits. We work diligently towards your goals and future life vision the way you see it.
I work with adults with ADD and Autism, especially those individuals facing trauma, C-PTSD, anxiety, and depression. You may be seeking understanding and therapy - BUT through the lens of your ADHD or Autism. My methods are adapted to accommodate your sensory experiences and how you perceive life. I work with a neurodiverse model of differences, not deficits. We work diligently towards your goals and future life vision the way you see it.
(825) 250-3831 View (825) 250-3831
Photo of Camille Champagne, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Camille Champagne
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Is your child struggling with mental health recently? Is your teenager or young adult suffering with social anxiety, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, school avoidance, difficulty managing their own emotions, OCD, feeling overwhelmed or lacking self-confidence? I can help support your family navigate through these challenges and difficulties. I can provide a warm, non-judgemental and relaxed space for your child to talk about how they are feeling. I have experience working with Autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, Tourette's, Learning Disabilities and giftedness.
Is your child struggling with mental health recently? Is your teenager or young adult suffering with social anxiety, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, school avoidance, difficulty managing their own emotions, OCD, feeling overwhelmed or lacking self-confidence? I can help support your family navigate through these challenges and difficulties. I can provide a warm, non-judgemental and relaxed space for your child to talk about how they are feeling. I have experience working with Autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, Tourette's, Learning Disabilities and giftedness.
(343) 342-0188 View (343) 342-0188
Photo of Jessica Kurta - Sherwood Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Sherwood Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Need help navigating relationships or family conflict? Is work wearing you down and burning you out? Is OCD, ADHD, Autism or past difficult experiences getting in your way? Are you worried about your child or teen's anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, social skills or learning challenges?
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Need help navigating relationships or family conflict? Is work wearing you down and burning you out? Is OCD, ADHD, Autism or past difficult experiences getting in your way? Are you worried about your child or teen's anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, social skills or learning challenges?
(343) 321-1136 View (343) 321-1136
Photo of Anastasia Marie Machan, MA, BA, RECE, Counsellor
Anastasia Marie Machan
Counsellor, MA, BA, RECE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
Second Nature Family Health & Wellness Centre provides neurodiverse children, youth, and families with health and wellness services that are attachment-based, neuro-affirming, and child-led. We offer play therapy, occupational therapy, psychotherapy, speech therapy, naturopathic medicine and more. From one neurodiverse family to another, we welcome you!
Second Nature Family Health & Wellness Centre provides neurodiverse children, youth, and families with health and wellness services that are attachment-based, neuro-affirming, and child-led. We offer play therapy, occupational therapy, psychotherapy, speech therapy, naturopathic medicine and more. From one neurodiverse family to another, we welcome you!
(613) 247-7900 View (613) 247-7900
Photo of Julie Anderson - OTC-Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, RP, MA,  BA, MEd BEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
OTC-Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, MA, BA, MEd BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A
DIRECT billing Available! The guided principle of personalized care is at the heart of our approach. We believe in the power of collaboration. We pride ourselves on the wide array of services we offer, facilitated by a diverse team of mental health professionals. This includes Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, and Registered Social Workers. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of mental health, we also collaborate with PMVC Psychiatrists across Ontario in order to provide diagnosis, medication recommendations/reviews and psychotherapy recommendations to clients receiving treatment through us.
DIRECT billing Available! The guided principle of personalized care is at the heart of our approach. We believe in the power of collaboration. We pride ourselves on the wide array of services we offer, facilitated by a diverse team of mental health professionals. This includes Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, and Registered Social Workers. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of mental health, we also collaborate with PMVC Psychiatrists across Ontario in order to provide diagnosis, medication recommendations/reviews and psychotherapy recommendations to clients receiving treatment through us.
(289) 512-2670 View (289) 512-2670
Photo of Patricia Sebbag - OTC- Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, Psychologist
OTC- Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapist
Psychologist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V
DIRECT billing Available! The guided principle of personalized care is at the heart of our approach. We believe in the power of collaboration. We pride ourselves on the wide array of services we offer, facilitated by a diverse team of mental health professionals. This includes Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, and Registered Social Workers. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of mental health, we also collaborate with PMVC Psychiatrists across Ontario in order to provide diagnosis, medication recommendations/reviews and psychotherapy recommendations to clients receiving treatment through us.
DIRECT billing Available! The guided principle of personalized care is at the heart of our approach. We believe in the power of collaboration. We pride ourselves on the wide array of services we offer, facilitated by a diverse team of mental health professionals. This includes Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, and Registered Social Workers. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of mental health, we also collaborate with PMVC Psychiatrists across Ontario in order to provide diagnosis, medication recommendations/reviews and psychotherapy recommendations to clients receiving treatment through us.
(289) 723-1654 View (289) 723-1654
Photo of Kyle Mueller, C Psych, Psychologist
Kyle Mueller
Psychologist, C Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
My practice focuses on providing high quality Psychological and Psychoeducational assessments for individuals who are experiencing concerns including ADHD, Learning Disabilities/Disorders, Giftedness, Intellectual Disability, Behavioural Challenges, and other associated difficulties that may impact an individual's functioning. I emphasize an evidence-based approach, and focus on providing my clients with practical recommendations to assist and support their learning and functioning. Clients interested in services at our clinic are encouraged to call, email, or utilize the online booking feature of the Waystone Psychology website.
My practice focuses on providing high quality Psychological and Psychoeducational assessments for individuals who are experiencing concerns including ADHD, Learning Disabilities/Disorders, Giftedness, Intellectual Disability, Behavioural Challenges, and other associated difficulties that may impact an individual's functioning. I emphasize an evidence-based approach, and focus on providing my clients with practical recommendations to assist and support their learning and functioning. Clients interested in services at our clinic are encouraged to call, email, or utilize the online booking feature of the Waystone Psychology website.
(613) 402-1698 View (613) 402-1698
Photo of Sharie Woelke - Renew Neurotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Renew Neurotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
Imagine feeling trapped in a whirlpool of anxiety, unable to pause and take a breath. Or envision a racing mind that won’t slow down enough to focus on the strategies that could help. Conventional therapies might have all the right answers, but the body refuses to cooperate. You know WHAT to do, but your body and brain won't listen! Whether it’s extreme anxiety, hypervigilance, or attention deficit problems, challenges often lie in a constant battle between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous systems that leave many people caught in an unproductive cycle.
Imagine feeling trapped in a whirlpool of anxiety, unable to pause and take a breath. Or envision a racing mind that won’t slow down enough to focus on the strategies that could help. Conventional therapies might have all the right answers, but the body refuses to cooperate. You know WHAT to do, but your body and brain won't listen! Whether it’s extreme anxiety, hypervigilance, or attention deficit problems, challenges often lie in a constant battle between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous systems that leave many people caught in an unproductive cycle.
(613) 707-7415 View (613) 707-7415
Photo of Marlene Rivier - The Counselling Group, MSW RSW, PhD, CCC, RP, Psychologist
The Counselling Group
Psychologist, MSW RSW, PhD, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
Our Masters/PhD level certified and experienced mental health professionals at The Counselling Group provide psychological assessments as well as a full range of psychotherapy, counselling and support services for children, adolescents, and adults. We offer individual, couple, family & group counselling tailored to support positive, meaningful change and growth in your life. During your free phone consultation, we will carefully match you with one of our 40 counsellors, based on your needs and availability. Our services are offered in English, French, Spanish, Arabic and several other languages.
Our Masters/PhD level certified and experienced mental health professionals at The Counselling Group provide psychological assessments as well as a full range of psychotherapy, counselling and support services for children, adolescents, and adults. We offer individual, couple, family & group counselling tailored to support positive, meaningful change and growth in your life. During your free phone consultation, we will carefully match you with one of our 40 counsellors, based on your needs and availability. Our services are offered in English, French, Spanish, Arabic and several other languages.
(343) 944-4889 View (343) 944-4889
Photo of Our Team - Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP), Psychiatrist
Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP)
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2C
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
(613) 482-0133 View (613) 482-0133
Photo of Preeti Taneja, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Preeti Taneja
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
As the founder of Canadian Therapy we believe in the value of staying small and intimate. We prefer to be big on what matters most: your experience with our psychotherapists. Our client first approach ensures that your care is top of mind, and you experience intimate, attentive, personalized therapy throughout your relationship with your therapist. Authenticity is reflected in who we are, and what we offer. We are mindful that each individuals journey is unique and pride ourself on creating a unique online therapy experience better than any other clinic for our clients throughout Canada.
As the founder of Canadian Therapy we believe in the value of staying small and intimate. We prefer to be big on what matters most: your experience with our psychotherapists. Our client first approach ensures that your care is top of mind, and you experience intimate, attentive, personalized therapy throughout your relationship with your therapist. Authenticity is reflected in who we are, and what we offer. We are mindful that each individuals journey is unique and pride ourself on creating a unique online therapy experience better than any other clinic for our clients throughout Canada.
(437) 747-8566 View (437) 747-8566
Photo of Nate Venema - Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
(343) 805-0202 View (343) 805-0202
Photo of Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A  (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
(867) 731-0384 View (867) 731-0384
Photo of Paola Caponetto, MEd, CPsych, Psychologist
Paola Caponetto
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R
My joy is to help children, adolescents, and young adults embrace their full potential! I conduct comprehensive Psychological consultations and assessments to diagnose ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, Intellectual Disability, ASD & other processing or social-emotional issues. I use a holistic and eclectic approach to identify, work & address learning, academic, self-esteem, attentional, adaptive, executive, social-emotional or mental health challenges. I provide direct support, coaching, plans & strength-based recommendations for the whole person as well as their care team. Collaboration with client, family & team is key.
My joy is to help children, adolescents, and young adults embrace their full potential! I conduct comprehensive Psychological consultations and assessments to diagnose ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, Intellectual Disability, ASD & other processing or social-emotional issues. I use a holistic and eclectic approach to identify, work & address learning, academic, self-esteem, attentional, adaptive, executive, social-emotional or mental health challenges. I provide direct support, coaching, plans & strength-based recommendations for the whole person as well as their care team. Collaboration with client, family & team is key.
(226) 778-2650 View (226) 778-2650
Photo of Christine Harrison - Focus Forward Therapy Group-Boutique Mental Health, RP, RCT, RCYC, Registered Psychotherapist
Focus Forward Therapy Group-Boutique Mental Health
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCT, RCYC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1B
Focus Forward Therapy Group is Ottawa's Premier Mental Health Clinic located in Kanata Ontario. We offer a boutique experience to help support your best life. Psychotherapy, counselling/assess. are all found in this upscale setting. Our team features Psychotherapists, Nurses, SW, and Dietitian experts to support your health and wellbeing. Additionally FFTG offers sports psychotherapy ,psychometric testing, and treatment, both 1 to 1 and couples. We offer families support with children and youth counselling . Are you looking at setting goals and making a change? This is our top priority. Book online or call to connect.
Focus Forward Therapy Group is Ottawa's Premier Mental Health Clinic located in Kanata Ontario. We offer a boutique experience to help support your best life. Psychotherapy, counselling/assess. are all found in this upscale setting. Our team features Psychotherapists, Nurses, SW, and Dietitian experts to support your health and wellbeing. Additionally FFTG offers sports psychotherapy ,psychometric testing, and treatment, both 1 to 1 and couples. We offer families support with children and youth counselling . Are you looking at setting goals and making a change? This is our top priority. Book online or call to connect.
(844) 811-5516 View (844) 811-5516
Photo of Adam McCaffrey, PhD, MEd, BA, Psychologist
Adam McCaffrey
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
*Note that I work with individuals aged 4 to 21 and I am only accepting clients for psychoeducational and psychological assessments currently. For the past decade I have been exploring my passion in helping those with learning challenges build strategies for success, and supporting people to address learning and mental health barriers and adversity. My early career focused on researching motivational factors that contribute to learning and interventions, while I later developed a passion for working in applied psychology settings.
*Note that I work with individuals aged 4 to 21 and I am only accepting clients for psychoeducational and psychological assessments currently. For the past decade I have been exploring my passion in helping those with learning challenges build strategies for success, and supporting people to address learning and mental health barriers and adversity. My early career focused on researching motivational factors that contribute to learning and interventions, while I later developed a passion for working in applied psychology settings.
(343) 306-5483 View (343) 306-5483
Photo of Ulla Woodard - Clinical Supervisor, MSW, RSW, CMFSW, MHt, Registered Social Worker
Ulla Woodard - Clinical Supervisor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CMFSW, MHt
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K7L  (Online Only)
I have vacancy to supervise a few counsellors/ therapists. My style is to follow your individual style and provide suggestions to fit your treatment methodology of choice. I believe supervision can effectively support continuous professional growth whether a new or already seasoned therapist.
I have vacancy to supervise a few counsellors/ therapists. My style is to follow your individual style and provide suggestions to fit your treatment methodology of choice. I believe supervision can effectively support continuous professional growth whether a new or already seasoned therapist.
(289) 210-4777 View (289) 210-4777

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Moore - Kanata Psychology and Counselling Centre, PhD, Psychologist
Kanata Psychology and Counselling Centre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kanata, ON K2K
We provide evidence-based treatments for a variety of psychological problems including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, trauma, and issues related to identity and self-esteem. We help couples improve communication, and resolve conflicts to build a more secure bond. We treat teens experiencing anxiety, depression, self-injury, and other mental health problems. We provide treatment for children experiencing anxiety, depression, oppositional and defiant behaviour, ADHD, attachment difficulties, & school avoidance. We help those struggling with substance and alcohol problems.
We provide evidence-based treatments for a variety of psychological problems including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, trauma, and issues related to identity and self-esteem. We help couples improve communication, and resolve conflicts to build a more secure bond. We treat teens experiencing anxiety, depression, self-injury, and other mental health problems. We provide treatment for children experiencing anxiety, depression, oppositional and defiant behaviour, ADHD, attachment difficulties, & school avoidance. We help those struggling with substance and alcohol problems.
(613) 435-2729 View (613) 435-2729

Online Therapists

Orleans Psychological Services (OPS) Centre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Orleans, ON K1C
The OPS Centre is dedicated to offer psychological services tailored to your needs. We provide assessment and therapy services to children, adolescents and adults.
The OPS Centre is dedicated to offer psychological services tailored to your needs. We provide assessment and therapy services to children, adolescents and adults.
(877) 980-8652 View (877) 980-8652

See more therapy options for Ottawa

Autism Counsellors

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.