Autism Therapists in West Vancouver, BC

Photo of Danielle Kingdon, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Danielle Kingdon
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
I provide psychological services (i.e., assessment and therapy) to children, adolescents, and their families. I offer services to youth experiencing a range of difficulties, including: anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, depression, suicidal ideation, ADHD, behavioural and learning problems, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), pediatric health conditions (e.g., selective eating, sleep problems), interpersonal problems, and difficulties adjusting to divorce, loss or life changes. I provide assessment and treatment services that are comprehensive and driven by the latest research and best practice guidelines.
I provide psychological services (i.e., assessment and therapy) to children, adolescents, and their families. I offer services to youth experiencing a range of difficulties, including: anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, depression, suicidal ideation, ADHD, behavioural and learning problems, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), pediatric health conditions (e.g., selective eating, sleep problems), interpersonal problems, and difficulties adjusting to divorce, loss or life changes. I provide assessment and treatment services that are comprehensive and driven by the latest research and best practice guidelines.
(778) 655-8837 View (778) 655-8837
Photo of Imogen McIntyre, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Imogen McIntyre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7T
I specialize in counselling for queer, trans, non-binary, and neurodivergent people. I work from the perspectives of social justice and attachment - I believe that the social environment we grew up in, and our relationship histories within those environments, shape how we think and feel in our present. I pay special attention to how power functions in our relationships, families, and communities, and how it impacts our internal experiences. I work extensively with people who discover their queer or trans identities later in life. I am also qualified to offer ADHD, ASD, and HRT readiness assessments.
I specialize in counselling for queer, trans, non-binary, and neurodivergent people. I work from the perspectives of social justice and attachment - I believe that the social environment we grew up in, and our relationship histories within those environments, shape how we think and feel in our present. I pay special attention to how power functions in our relationships, families, and communities, and how it impacts our internal experiences. I work extensively with people who discover their queer or trans identities later in life. I am also qualified to offer ADHD, ASD, and HRT readiness assessments.
(647) 951-0928 View (647) 951-0928
Photo of Sylvia Dai - Starry Wonderland Play Therapy Ltd., RSW, MSW, RPT, Registered Social Worker
Starry Wonderland Play Therapy Ltd.
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7T
Waitlist for new clients
Are you concerning about your child or struggling with how to support them? ? Here is the right place for you and your child! My name is Sylvia and I am a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-USA) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Vancouver. Over the past decade, I have been providing play therapy for children and preteens who have low self-esteem, behavioral issues, anxiety, selective mutism, depression, and other challenges in life such as living with trauma, divorce/separation, and violence/abuse.
Are you concerning about your child or struggling with how to support them? ? Here is the right place for you and your child! My name is Sylvia and I am a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-USA) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Vancouver. Over the past decade, I have been providing play therapy for children and preteens who have low self-esteem, behavioral issues, anxiety, selective mutism, depression, and other challenges in life such as living with trauma, divorce/separation, and violence/abuse.
(365) 398-5040 View (365) 398-5040
Photo of Courtney Sung, MC, Counsellor
Courtney Sung
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7T
Is your child struggling with challenges such as anxiety, peer conflict or emotion regulation? With over 12 years of experience in working with teens and kids, I am absolutely passionate about creating a comfortable and safe bond with my clients, using leading-edge interventions to help clients feel better, perform better and have more meaningful relationships with friends and family.
Is your child struggling with challenges such as anxiety, peer conflict or emotion regulation? With over 12 years of experience in working with teens and kids, I am absolutely passionate about creating a comfortable and safe bond with my clients, using leading-edge interventions to help clients feel better, perform better and have more meaningful relationships with friends and family.
(782) 800-5767 View (782) 800-5767
Photo of Paola Zorrilla Steenbock, RCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Paola Zorrilla Steenbock
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
Waitlist for new clients
Currently only accepting child clients. In therapy, I strive for a safe, judgment-free space to explore your needs and values. I support kids (<12) and their parents navigating neurodiversity, big or overwhelming emotions, coping, and self-care—essential amid a neurotypical-centric world. Collaboratively, using conversation, art, play, or somatic methods, we explore how to meet your needs. Together, we navigate an often isolating, unaccommodating world to understand how it influences your experiences, relationships, and environments. We aim to understand cultural norms, rewriting expectations to align with your unmasked self.
Currently only accepting child clients. In therapy, I strive for a safe, judgment-free space to explore your needs and values. I support kids (<12) and their parents navigating neurodiversity, big or overwhelming emotions, coping, and self-care—essential amid a neurotypical-centric world. Collaboratively, using conversation, art, play, or somatic methods, we explore how to meet your needs. Together, we navigate an often isolating, unaccommodating world to understand how it influences your experiences, relationships, and environments. We aim to understand cultural norms, rewriting expectations to align with your unmasked self.
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Photo of Jennifer Schine, MA, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Jennifer Schine
Counsellor, MA, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
Welcome to my practice. I believe that every person has the capacity for change. Counselling helps us unearth our internal compass, also called our inner intelligence, intuition, or higher self, so that we can relearn how to trust ourselves again. This is important work. Together, I will help you develop your capacity to respond to life's circumstances and manage the discomfort that you are experiencing. Our pain, anxiety, sadness, love, and joy all have important information for us. They can reveal what is required of us to heal, grow, and even thrive.
Welcome to my practice. I believe that every person has the capacity for change. Counselling helps us unearth our internal compass, also called our inner intelligence, intuition, or higher self, so that we can relearn how to trust ourselves again. This is important work. Together, I will help you develop your capacity to respond to life's circumstances and manage the discomfort that you are experiencing. Our pain, anxiety, sadness, love, and joy all have important information for us. They can reveal what is required of us to heal, grow, and even thrive.
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Photo of Kerry Ashley - Sea2Sky Therapy Services, RCC, MSc psy, MA, PGCE, BA, Counsellor
Sea2Sky Therapy Services
Counsellor, RCC, MSc psy, MA, PGCE, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7W
Making the decision to begin therapy can be quite daunting and finding a therapist with whom you can feel comfortable with more so. I can offer you a safe space from which to explore your difficulties, where you can express your feelings and thoughts freely. This can enable you to look forward to a better understanding so that you can cope with life. Some of the issues I can help with include: physical illness, trauma, depression, PTSD, anxiety, behavioural, learning, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and self-esteem.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be quite daunting and finding a therapist with whom you can feel comfortable with more so. I can offer you a safe space from which to explore your difficulties, where you can express your feelings and thoughts freely. This can enable you to look forward to a better understanding so that you can cope with life. Some of the issues I can help with include: physical illness, trauma, depression, PTSD, anxiety, behavioural, learning, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and self-esteem.
(604) 256-6871 View (604) 256-6871
Photo of Sean R Heaslip - Sean Heaslip Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Sean Heaslip Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor holding a Master's degree in Counselling psychology, and a current PhD candidate in Counselling Psychology at UBC completing my pre-doctoral internship year. My PhD education has increased to my clinical effectiveness, and will lead to registration as a psychologist after graduation. Much of my clinical experience has been trauma focused, providing individual/group counselling to survivors of sexual abuse as well as clients experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, gender identity, grief and loss, disability, emotional regulation, identity, relationship, communication and family.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor holding a Master's degree in Counselling psychology, and a current PhD candidate in Counselling Psychology at UBC completing my pre-doctoral internship year. My PhD education has increased to my clinical effectiveness, and will lead to registration as a psychologist after graduation. Much of my clinical experience has been trauma focused, providing individual/group counselling to survivors of sexual abuse as well as clients experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, gender identity, grief and loss, disability, emotional regulation, identity, relationship, communication and family.
(604) 332-1421 View (604) 332-1421
Photo of Nicklas Ehrlich - Vital Synergy Mind Fitness Inc., MSW, RCC, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Vital Synergy Mind Fitness Inc.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7V
I help you get to the root of your problems, train your brain to be more resilient, and overwrite unwanted default programming so you can make lasting change. 95% of your thoughts and behaviours are processed in your unconscious mind, which is why, even though you might want something better for yourself, you find yourself stuck. I use evidence-based techniques like hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and neurofeedback to help you access your unconscious mind, and reprogram unwanted thoughts and behaviour patterns for good.
I help you get to the root of your problems, train your brain to be more resilient, and overwrite unwanted default programming so you can make lasting change. 95% of your thoughts and behaviours are processed in your unconscious mind, which is why, even though you might want something better for yourself, you find yourself stuck. I use evidence-based techniques like hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and neurofeedback to help you access your unconscious mind, and reprogram unwanted thoughts and behaviour patterns for good.
(604) 770-3038 View (604) 770-3038
Photo of Sue Anne Poh, BSc, BEd, MEd, Counsellor
Sue Anne Poh
Counsellor, BSc, BEd, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7S
Drawing on 18 years as an educator, I offer specialized therapy and counseling for families, children, and youth. My deep understanding of child and adolescent behavior informs tailored therapeutic approaches, fostering stronger family connections and improved harmony. I am a Korean adoptee and specialize in supporting Korean and other adoptees and BIPOC clients, creating a culturally sensitive environment for exploring identity and developing coping strategies.
Drawing on 18 years as an educator, I offer specialized therapy and counseling for families, children, and youth. My deep understanding of child and adolescent behavior informs tailored therapeutic approaches, fostering stronger family connections and improved harmony. I am a Korean adoptee and specialize in supporting Korean and other adoptees and BIPOC clients, creating a culturally sensitive environment for exploring identity and developing coping strategies.
(604) 733-7709 View (604) 733-7709
Photo of Freha Mian, HBSc, MA, RP, RCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Freha Mian
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MA, RP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, facing challenges in your relationships, or simply feeling stuck in life? As a Psychotherapist, I work with my clients to help guide them on a journey of self-awareness and personal growth to aid them in living a more fulfilling life. My aim is to work with you to recognize and overcome challenges that may be holding you back from living the life you envisioned for yourself.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, facing challenges in your relationships, or simply feeling stuck in life? As a Psychotherapist, I work with my clients to help guide them on a journey of self-awareness and personal growth to aid them in living a more fulfilling life. My aim is to work with you to recognize and overcome challenges that may be holding you back from living the life you envisioned for yourself.
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Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7P  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(867) 670-9708 View (867) 670-9708
Photo of Byron Elton, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Byron Elton
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) based in the West End, serving the entire Lower Mainland. I practice a bio-psycho-social approach to mental health, addressing the interconnected aspects of well-being & functioning. I currently work with the Fraser Health Authority primarily with youth experiencing severe acute mental health conditions as well as their families. In private practice, I work with both individual adults, youth and parents.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) based in the West End, serving the entire Lower Mainland. I practice a bio-psycho-social approach to mental health, addressing the interconnected aspects of well-being & functioning. I currently work with the Fraser Health Authority primarily with youth experiencing severe acute mental health conditions as well as their families. In private practice, I work with both individual adults, youth and parents.
(236) 201-4907 View (236) 201-4907
Photo of Marcus Narsaiya, BKin, MC, RCC, ATPPP, Trainee, Counsellor
Marcus Narsaiya
Counsellor, BKin, MC, RCC, ATPPP, Trainee
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
I serve diverse clients in a number of challenges ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, relational stress, low self-esteem, chronic stress or pain, and wellness concerns. I have a background in Kinesiology and holistic wellness coaching, as well as coaching individuals with cognitive dis/abilities. My clinical style is based in Social Justice Narrative practice; processing, exploration and discovery of emotions, and development of self-insight. My Masters was in treatment approaches to transgenerational trauma. My preference is to work weekly or twice weekly for a minimum of 6 months so we can invest in your goals.
I serve diverse clients in a number of challenges ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, relational stress, low self-esteem, chronic stress or pain, and wellness concerns. I have a background in Kinesiology and holistic wellness coaching, as well as coaching individuals with cognitive dis/abilities. My clinical style is based in Social Justice Narrative practice; processing, exploration and discovery of emotions, and development of self-insight. My Masters was in treatment approaches to transgenerational trauma. My preference is to work weekly or twice weekly for a minimum of 6 months so we can invest in your goals.
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Photo of Nazanin Fasihi - Therapy Matters, BA, MAC, RCC, Counsellor
Therapy Matters
Counsellor, BA, MAC, RCC
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7V
We believe in your journey as a lifelong process of self-discovery and empowerment. We provide a strength-based, non-stigmatizing approach to counselling, acknowledging you are deserving of care and support. At Therapy Matters, you can release defences and reveal your full potential. We invite you to discover your resilience and embrace your unique perspective on life.
We believe in your journey as a lifelong process of self-discovery and empowerment. We provide a strength-based, non-stigmatizing approach to counselling, acknowledging you are deserving of care and support. At Therapy Matters, you can release defences and reveal your full potential. We invite you to discover your resilience and embrace your unique perspective on life.
(343) 947-1047 View (343) 947-1047
Photo of John-Michael Parra, MA, RCC, Counsellor
John-Michael Parra
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7P
Although it might not always feel that way, the good news is that you don't have to go it alone. If you are feeling unfocused, on an emotional roller coaster, unmotivated, and disconnected for yourself and others, I can help. Using engaging, effective, and holistic techniques, we will work together to help you find more resilience, emotional stability, focus, and meaning in your life. My trauma-informed counselling and coaching helps you get off the roller coaster, find out who you really are, what you actually want from life, and where you want to go next.
Although it might not always feel that way, the good news is that you don't have to go it alone. If you are feeling unfocused, on an emotional roller coaster, unmotivated, and disconnected for yourself and others, I can help. Using engaging, effective, and holistic techniques, we will work together to help you find more resilience, emotional stability, focus, and meaning in your life. My trauma-informed counselling and coaching helps you get off the roller coaster, find out who you really are, what you actually want from life, and where you want to go next.
(604) 670-8354 View (604) 670-8354
Photo of Denise Carter, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Denise Carter
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7P
Life can be complicated no matter what your age is. Managing life transitions such as becoming a teenager or young adult, a parent, or change in any life routine can be difficult. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues. Traumas and life stressors we experience can affect how we feel, think, and connect with others. I aim to help you connect with yourself and others in a way that makes you feel more content and confident in life.
Life can be complicated no matter what your age is. Managing life transitions such as becoming a teenager or young adult, a parent, or change in any life routine can be difficult. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues. Traumas and life stressors we experience can affect how we feel, think, and connect with others. I aim to help you connect with yourself and others in a way that makes you feel more content and confident in life.
(587) 815-4729 View (587) 815-4729
Photo of Brandys Evans, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Brandys Evans
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
I am here to help you or your child deal with anxiety, trauma, neurodiversity, PTSD, family relationships, parenting, ADHD, learning disabilities, and intimate relationships. In other words, situations that make you feel like you’re overwhelmed and like you’re struggling to cope. I am passionate about understanding you and your own unique story. My greatest desire is that you feel heard, supported, and understood. Strength comes from connecting to the source within you that desires change. If you are looking for help, it is time for change. I am here for you!
I am here to help you or your child deal with anxiety, trauma, neurodiversity, PTSD, family relationships, parenting, ADHD, learning disabilities, and intimate relationships. In other words, situations that make you feel like you’re overwhelmed and like you’re struggling to cope. I am passionate about understanding you and your own unique story. My greatest desire is that you feel heard, supported, and understood. Strength comes from connecting to the source within you that desires change. If you are looking for help, it is time for change. I am here for you!
(778) 402-1612 View (778) 402-1612
Photo of Clayre Sessoms - Clayre Sessoms Psychotherapy, RP, RCC, RCAT, CCC, ATR, Registered Psychotherapist
Clayre Sessoms Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCC, RCAT, CCC, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7P  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed by societal pressures to conform, questioning if your current life could embrace your truest form? I'm Clayre, a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Registered Art Therapist. I work with adults at any age and stage of life who might be feeling stressed, stuck, or worn out. Using a blend of evidence-based practices tailored to your specific therapy goals, I can help if you're feeling anxious, depressed, grief-stricken, hopeless, or stressed to the max. We'll work together to help you reclaim your sense of wellbeing. Let's find your path to growth, healing, and change.
Are you overwhelmed by societal pressures to conform, questioning if your current life could embrace your truest form? I'm Clayre, a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Registered Art Therapist. I work with adults at any age and stage of life who might be feeling stressed, stuck, or worn out. Using a blend of evidence-based practices tailored to your specific therapy goals, I can help if you're feeling anxious, depressed, grief-stricken, hopeless, or stressed to the max. We'll work together to help you reclaim your sense of wellbeing. Let's find your path to growth, healing, and change.
(604) 332-1826 View (604) 332-1826
Photo of Taylar Dykstra, MEd, BEd, Counsellor
Taylar Dykstra
Counsellor, MEd, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7P
My goodness mental health and relationship challenges can be wild, and you don't need to navigate them alone. Whether this is for yourself, family, dependent, or relationship, I am deeply passionate about mental health and certain positive change can occur together. While therapy can seem nebulous, I believe in demystifying the counselling process, using evidence-based best practices, and empowering you through education and insights to address the roots of your concerns.
My goodness mental health and relationship challenges can be wild, and you don't need to navigate them alone. Whether this is for yourself, family, dependent, or relationship, I am deeply passionate about mental health and certain positive change can occur together. While therapy can seem nebulous, I believe in demystifying the counselling process, using evidence-based best practices, and empowering you through education and insights to address the roots of your concerns.
(581) 880-0507 View (581) 880-0507
Photo of Yanina Maggiorino, RPC, Counsellor
Yanina Maggiorino
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7W
All feelings welcome! Every experience and decision you've made in your life, has brought you to the present moment in time, to the NOW. I am passionate about providing a safe and caring environment where you can feel felt. Helping you connect with, take care of and honor the most important person in your life, YOU. As we all heal and integrate our past experiences, we are able to apply self-compassion, forgiveness and acceptance which we can then radiate to those around us. When we provide that safety and trust to ourselves, we are able to grow confidence, motivation and feel secure.
All feelings welcome! Every experience and decision you've made in your life, has brought you to the present moment in time, to the NOW. I am passionate about providing a safe and caring environment where you can feel felt. Helping you connect with, take care of and honor the most important person in your life, YOU. As we all heal and integrate our past experiences, we are able to apply self-compassion, forgiveness and acceptance which we can then radiate to those around us. When we provide that safety and trust to ourselves, we are able to grow confidence, motivation and feel secure.
(604) 339-9589 View (604) 339-9589
Photo of Dr. Hannah Jenkins
Dr. Hannah Jenkins
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7P  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Hannah and my offering is an experienced, kind and open space to explore difficulties you might be having as a couple, or individually (see specialties below). Many couples find themselves in the same patterns of distress again and again, feeling as though they can't find a way forward through the disconnection or discord. My Emotionally Focused Therapy sessions will help you to understand where the issues lie by breaking down these patterns, and help you to reestablish trust and and emotional safety in the relationship. This work aims to foster healthier communication, closer bonds and loving connection.
Hi there! My name is Hannah and my offering is an experienced, kind and open space to explore difficulties you might be having as a couple, or individually (see specialties below). Many couples find themselves in the same patterns of distress again and again, feeling as though they can't find a way forward through the disconnection or discord. My Emotionally Focused Therapy sessions will help you to understand where the issues lie by breaking down these patterns, and help you to reestablish trust and and emotional safety in the relationship. This work aims to foster healthier communication, closer bonds and loving connection.
(236) 300-2708 View (236) 300-2708

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heidi Watson, MOT, BSc, CDT, Occupational Therapist
Heidi Watson
Occupational Therapist, MOT, BSc, CDT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5W  (Online Only)
As an occupational therapist specializing in Autism, ADHD, and parenting, my mission is to empower individuals to thrive and families to connect.
Ranging from children to teens and young adults, I work with families seeking comprehensive support for their loved ones' development journey. I'm drawn to those with diverse needs, whether it's Autism, ADHD challenges, or parents seeking guidance. My clients embrace the power of play-based learning and are open to creative, engaging approaches. They're motivated for positive change, and excited to set collaborative goals through the convenience of online sessions, driven by virtual and IRL games.
As an occupational therapist specializing in Autism, ADHD, and parenting, my mission is to empower individuals to thrive and families to connect.
Ranging from children to teens and young adults, I work with families seeking comprehensive support for their loved ones' development journey. I'm drawn to those with diverse needs, whether it's Autism, ADHD challenges, or parents seeking guidance. My clients embrace the power of play-based learning and are open to creative, engaging approaches. They're motivated for positive change, and excited to set collaborative goals through the convenience of online sessions, driven by virtual and IRL games.
(306) 700-3781 View (306) 700-3781
Photo of Julia Olsen, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Julia Olsen
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V7Y  (Online Only)
My practice focusses on adults who are themselves living with high functioning autism and/or HSP and/or ADHD. The sessions provide opportunities to talk in detail about one’s own unique experiences living with ASD or ADHD with someone who gets you. Engaging guided explorations lead to the revelation of blind spots and the discovery of ways to see things from new perspectives. Collaborative development of tailor-made strategies helps with communication, boundary-setting and the management of daily challenges. Sessions are free from judgement and you are supported to work at your own pace.
My practice focusses on adults who are themselves living with high functioning autism and/or HSP and/or ADHD. The sessions provide opportunities to talk in detail about one’s own unique experiences living with ASD or ADHD with someone who gets you. Engaging guided explorations lead to the revelation of blind spots and the discovery of ways to see things from new perspectives. Collaborative development of tailor-made strategies helps with communication, boundary-setting and the management of daily challenges. Sessions are free from judgement and you are supported to work at your own pace.
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Photo of Alisa Farina Growing Minds Counselling, RCC, MACP, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Alisa Farina Growing Minds Counselling
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K
Openings for new clients in New Westminster & virtually anywhere in B.C. with evenings & weekends available. Hi I'm Alisa I'm here to support you towards a better life. I specialize in counselling for teens, young adults under 45, parents and families. Through my diverse and rewarding career in youth work, special education & counselling, I've supported hundreds of clients experiencing anxiety depression, addiction, trauma & PTSD. I have experience supporting clients with ADHD or Autism, parents of complex children, and families. I hope to support you also!
Openings for new clients in New Westminster & virtually anywhere in B.C. with evenings & weekends available. Hi I'm Alisa I'm here to support you towards a better life. I specialize in counselling for teens, young adults under 45, parents and families. Through my diverse and rewarding career in youth work, special education & counselling, I've supported hundreds of clients experiencing anxiety depression, addiction, trauma & PTSD. I have experience supporting clients with ADHD or Autism, parents of complex children, and families. I hope to support you also!
(604) 788-6152 View (604) 788-6152

See more therapy options for West Vancouver

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.