Autism Psychiatrists in California
![Photo of Carlos Barrios - Carlos Barrios MD, Boarded Pediatric Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f786300-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carlos Barrios MD, Boarded Pediatric Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Online Only)
Dr. Carlos Barrios, with 20+ years of experience, is a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist. He uniquely integrates metabolic health principles into his practice, emphasizing exercise, nutrition, and sleep for mental health. Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Pediatric PTSD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders, Dr. Barrios advocates a holistic approach to reduce medication dependency. His telepsychiatric practice serves a diverse clientele across several states. A cancer survivor, Dr. Barrios embodies his "Healing Minds, Minimizing Meds" philosophy. Visit carlosbarriosmd.com for more information.
Dr. Carlos Barrios, with 20+ years of experience, is a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist. He uniquely integrates metabolic health principles into his practice, emphasizing exercise, nutrition, and sleep for mental health. Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Pediatric PTSD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders, Dr. Barrios advocates a holistic approach to reduce medication dependency. His telepsychiatric practice serves a diverse clientele across several states. A cancer survivor, Dr. Barrios embodies his "Healing Minds, Minimizing Meds" philosophy. Visit carlosbarriosmd.com for more information.
![Photo of Bernadette Grosjean, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e26db87-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Specific areas of expertise are Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders and Adult Autism.
I have practiced psychiatry for over 30 years including 11 years as a professor of psychiatry at Harbor UCLA and 20 years in a NGO based in the Asian and Hispanic communities. Working with individuals with wide-ranging diagnoses and very different life journeys, I learned the value of flexibility and use different modes of psychotherapy based on my assessment of the patient's needs. I have a strong psychopharmacology background and prescribe medication when appropriate. I believe in a candid, respectful and collaborative relationship with the patient and his/her family if appropriate, and referring healthcare professional always.
Specific areas of expertise are Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders and Adult Autism.
I have practiced psychiatry for over 30 years including 11 years as a professor of psychiatry at Harbor UCLA and 20 years in a NGO based in the Asian and Hispanic communities. Working with individuals with wide-ranging diagnoses and very different life journeys, I learned the value of flexibility and use different modes of psychotherapy based on my assessment of the patient's needs. I have a strong psychopharmacology background and prescribe medication when appropriate. I believe in a candid, respectful and collaborative relationship with the patient and his/her family if appropriate, and referring healthcare professional always.
![Photo of Makenzie Wesner, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8799c8c4-c7f3-45f9-915d-bfc89e99beb6/5/320x400.jpeg)
Behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly identified mental health challenges in children and teens. However, far too many go far too long without a deeper, comprehensive understanding of their unique barriers and gifts. For example, high academic performance and gender disparities may delay autism diagnosis. Sensory processing challenges generally underly ADHD. I designed a developmental psychiatry practice known as Behavioral Medicine at Family/Teen Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in order to provide toddlers to young adults - as well as their families - quick access to accurate, high-quality care.
Behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly identified mental health challenges in children and teens. However, far too many go far too long without a deeper, comprehensive understanding of their unique barriers and gifts. For example, high academic performance and gender disparities may delay autism diagnosis. Sensory processing challenges generally underly ADHD. I designed a developmental psychiatry practice known as Behavioral Medicine at Family/Teen Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in order to provide toddlers to young adults - as well as their families - quick access to accurate, high-quality care.
![Photo of Ivana Viani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a07b2ed-6b58-4c9d-b771-973b795e6e1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ivana Viani is a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, completed her psychiatry residency in Boston, and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She primarily specializes in working with young people with autism and other neurodivergencies, such as ADHD and learning differences, and those who are highly talented or knowledgeable in one or more domains. Dr. Viani is an LGBTQIA+ ally.
Dr. Ivana Viani is a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, completed her psychiatry residency in Boston, and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She primarily specializes in working with young people with autism and other neurodivergencies, such as ADHD and learning differences, and those who are highly talented or knowledgeable in one or more domains. Dr. Viani is an LGBTQIA+ ally.
![Photo of Alexander Huang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c882b89-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
![Photo of Tarik Hadzic, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4614c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My specialties include autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood and psychotic disorders.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who practices psychotherapy, pharmacologic treatment and, when appropriate, refers for interventional psychiatry treatments. I see both children and adults, and approach patients and their families with respect, compassion and care. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic treatments backed by neuroscience, I am also a proponent of not simply medicating a child or an adult, but using the entire spectrum of interventions for a healthy brain (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I liaison with schools, teachers, parents, guardians, therapists, life coaches.
My specialties include autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood and psychotic disorders.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who practices psychotherapy, pharmacologic treatment and, when appropriate, refers for interventional psychiatry treatments. I see both children and adults, and approach patients and their families with respect, compassion and care. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic treatments backed by neuroscience, I am also a proponent of not simply medicating a child or an adult, but using the entire spectrum of interventions for a healthy brain (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I liaison with schools, teachers, parents, guardians, therapists, life coaches.
![Photo of Dr. Ritu Goel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9d3d861-770f-4758-97db-a883dcbde9dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
My training across 3 continents and 20 years of experience brings you diverse, holistic and effective mental health care. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD and autism for children, teens and adults who experience sadness, anger, worries, and struggle with focus, social skills, and academics. I help you feel more confident, improve your sleep and mood, perform better at school and work, and enrich your relationships with friends and family. I engage closely with families, empowering parents with the understanding and tools that improve their young ones’ mental well-being and quality of lives
My training across 3 continents and 20 years of experience brings you diverse, holistic and effective mental health care. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD and autism for children, teens and adults who experience sadness, anger, worries, and struggle with focus, social skills, and academics. I help you feel more confident, improve your sleep and mood, perform better at school and work, and enrich your relationships with friends and family. I engage closely with families, empowering parents with the understanding and tools that improve their young ones’ mental well-being and quality of lives
![Photo of Je Deuk Ko, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/679432a0-4709-452a-bc81-a7e0ed97d14f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to deeply understand my youths with academic/career (ADHD, Autism) and emotional difficulties (depression, anxiety, obsessions, mania, and anger issues), families with dynamic issues, those with substance use issues, as well as those with psychotic issues.
I take on the tradition of detailed discovery of your issues and turn it around to supporting you in how best to reach your emotional, relational, and cognitive potentials. I am versatile in, and offer, various treatment approaches such as DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychodynamic therapy, as well as prescribing medications. I discuss the details of my Psycho-Bio-Social model integrated formulations before answering the scientific and functional rationales behind my recommendations. I believe the process of discovering your functional goal is the most important part of the process.
I strive to deeply understand my youths with academic/career (ADHD, Autism) and emotional difficulties (depression, anxiety, obsessions, mania, and anger issues), families with dynamic issues, those with substance use issues, as well as those with psychotic issues.
I take on the tradition of detailed discovery of your issues and turn it around to supporting you in how best to reach your emotional, relational, and cognitive potentials. I am versatile in, and offer, various treatment approaches such as DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychodynamic therapy, as well as prescribing medications. I discuss the details of my Psycho-Bio-Social model integrated formulations before answering the scientific and functional rationales behind my recommendations. I believe the process of discovering your functional goal is the most important part of the process.
![Photo of Ana Popoca-Logue, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acaca84c-20ee-47e4-b888-6c79ff0a80c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ana Popoca-Logue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
I’ve come to love "challenging or difficult-to-treat" cases, whether treatment-resistant depression; bipolar/mood disorders; schizoaffective disorder/schizophrenia; anxiety disorders; addictions; insomnia; autism/developmental disorders; ADHD/ADD; eating disorders… let's talk.
We cannot escape pain & suffering, as they are part of the human condition; however, we can help alleviate their burden. Emotional pain and physical pain are often intertwined, thus a holistic approach is beneficial when dealing with mental conditions. Much has been written about human suffering, and of our collective quest to help one another; I believe our best tools are a caring brain & listening heart to hear you, understand you, assist you. This is your life. YOU are in the driver's seat; I will be your co-pilot, your guide, your listening ear... depending on YOUR needs. How can I help?
I’ve come to love "challenging or difficult-to-treat" cases, whether treatment-resistant depression; bipolar/mood disorders; schizoaffective disorder/schizophrenia; anxiety disorders; addictions; insomnia; autism/developmental disorders; ADHD/ADD; eating disorders… let's talk.
We cannot escape pain & suffering, as they are part of the human condition; however, we can help alleviate their burden. Emotional pain and physical pain are often intertwined, thus a holistic approach is beneficial when dealing with mental conditions. Much has been written about human suffering, and of our collective quest to help one another; I believe our best tools are a caring brain & listening heart to hear you, understand you, assist you. This is your life. YOU are in the driver's seat; I will be your co-pilot, your guide, your listening ear... depending on YOUR needs. How can I help?
![Photo of Zachary Schwager, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0182c387-2415-45cc-836e-e49c741f8426/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have particular interests in treatment of individuals with autism, athletes of all types.
For me, the decision to go into psychiatry was easy; I am passionate about advocating for people of all ages struggling with their mental health. My approach is to appreciate the human experience and to help make life more fulfilling for those in need of support. Each session with me you can expect a kind, thorough evaluation and personalized evidence-based treatment recommendations. The decision for or against a particular treatment is always shared and I empower patients to participate in formulating a treatment plan together with me.
I have particular interests in treatment of individuals with autism, athletes of all types.
For me, the decision to go into psychiatry was easy; I am passionate about advocating for people of all ages struggling with their mental health. My approach is to appreciate the human experience and to help make life more fulfilling for those in need of support. Each session with me you can expect a kind, thorough evaluation and personalized evidence-based treatment recommendations. The decision for or against a particular treatment is always shared and I empower patients to participate in formulating a treatment plan together with me.
![Photo of Melinda Cuthbert, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b53265f-0e8d-4046-984a-be28e51acdc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Cuthbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate medication management, psychotherapy and mindfulness to support those with autism, ADHD, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, trauma, insomnia, and substance misuse.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
I integrate medication management, psychotherapy and mindfulness to support those with autism, ADHD, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, trauma, insomnia, and substance misuse.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
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![Photo of Rohzan Altre, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6cd6561-605e-4c32-86d0-4be7034b633a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rohzan utilizes her extensive year of experience as a psychiatric nurse to provide individualized care to every patient. She has worked with veterans, special needs, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, and autism spectrum disorders. Rohzan’s years of experience as a registered nurse have enabled her to have extensive training throughout her years of practice. She understands that mental health care requires careful examination of all aspects in every patient’s life to support healing and stability. Rohzan champions in safe and evidenced based practice.
Rohzan utilizes her extensive year of experience as a psychiatric nurse to provide individualized care to every patient. She has worked with veterans, special needs, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, and autism spectrum disorders. Rohzan’s years of experience as a registered nurse have enabled her to have extensive training throughout her years of practice. She understands that mental health care requires careful examination of all aspects in every patient’s life to support healing and stability. Rohzan champions in safe and evidenced based practice.
![Photo of Catherine Stayer, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7d69b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Expertise: ADHD, OCD, Tourette's, Autism, Mood and Anxiety disorders; Spiritual Issues
Research Experience/Publications: Sleep, Psychopharmacology, Neurology, Childhood Onset Psychosis
Fellowships: Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, American Academy of Anti-Aging, Regenerative and Functional Medicine,NIMH-Children's Hospital Research in Pediatric Psychiatry
www.
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
Expertise: ADHD, OCD, Tourette's, Autism, Mood and Anxiety disorders; Spiritual Issues
Research Experience/Publications: Sleep, Psychopharmacology, Neurology, Childhood Onset Psychosis
Fellowships: Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, American Academy of Anti-Aging, Regenerative and Functional Medicine,NIMH-Children's Hospital Research in Pediatric Psychiatry
www.
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
![Photo of Manisha Ram Punwani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88770008-47a4-452f-bbbe-a23de6a43b23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
![Photo of Sanjoy Sathpathy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ca5772-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is on diseases impairing child and adolescent population especially Autism, ADHD, Developmental and Cognitive impairment, Gender Identity issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and Psychosis.
From an early age, I have been encouraged to be curious and inquisitive in humanity. This attracted me to the profession of psychiatry, which gave me the opportunity to have a positive impact on an individual. Empowering each patient is of my highest concern and I make every effort to instill confidence and provide support through the healing process.
My focus is on diseases impairing child and adolescent population especially Autism, ADHD, Developmental and Cognitive impairment, Gender Identity issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and Psychosis.
From an early age, I have been encouraged to be curious and inquisitive in humanity. This attracted me to the profession of psychiatry, which gave me the opportunity to have a positive impact on an individual. Empowering each patient is of my highest concern and I make every effort to instill confidence and provide support through the healing process.
![Photo of Manisha Punwani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bbd8674-b096-450b-bba9-93d8dae294d6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
![Photo of Faisal Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0826a4c6-61bd-41f1-a5be-dfc208e8e6a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neuro-developmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, significantly impact a person's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The need for mental health support in these cases is paramount. These individuals often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and managing emotions, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Effective mental health interventions tailored to their unique needs can provide crucial coping strategies, emotional regulation tools, and social skills training. By addressing their mental well-being alongside their developmental challenges,
Neuro-developmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, significantly impact a person's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The need for mental health support in these cases is paramount. These individuals often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and managing emotions, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Effective mental health interventions tailored to their unique needs can provide crucial coping strategies, emotional regulation tools, and social skills training. By addressing their mental well-being alongside their developmental challenges,
![Photo of James Rounds, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2750e12b-c204-40d5-bbc0-b3fc4f2d71df/1/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to his clinical expertise, James is dedicated to treating populations such as first responders, military/veterans, individuals on the autism spectrum.
James Rounds, PMHNP specializes in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma, with a particular focus on serving the LGBTQIA+ community. His practice in California is rooted in a holistic approach, combining empathetic and tailored care to address both symptoms and underlying causes. James creates a safe, affirming space for individuals, guiding them toward resilience, healing, and personal growth. James is passionate about addressing ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. He utilizes individual therapy, medication management, and TMS to support his patients' diverse needs.
In addition to his clinical expertise, James is dedicated to treating populations such as first responders, military/veterans, individuals on the autism spectrum.
James Rounds, PMHNP specializes in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma, with a particular focus on serving the LGBTQIA+ community. His practice in California is rooted in a holistic approach, combining empathetic and tailored care to address both symptoms and underlying causes. James creates a safe, affirming space for individuals, guiding them toward resilience, healing, and personal growth. James is passionate about addressing ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. He utilizes individual therapy, medication management, and TMS to support his patients' diverse needs.
![Photo of Derek VanCamp, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88aae44c-85af-437d-b448-719591ba33ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
He treats patients with; depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction disorders (including Suboxone maintenance therapy), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, PTSD, conduct disorders, anger disorders, schizophrenia, autism, developmental delay, cognitive decline and dementia, sleep disorders, and bipolar disorder.
Derek VanCamp, DNP is a psychiatric specialist with 30 years of experience in emergency care, family practice, critical care, and psychiatric disorders. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from West Coast University Los Angeles, a Master’s degree from Vanderbilt University, a Doctoral degree from Vanderbilt University, and a Postdoctoral degree in psychiatry and mental health from Regis College of Boston. He is board-certified in acute care, gerontology, and psychiatry/mental health and specializes in treating children, adult, and geriatric patients.
He treats patients with; depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction disorders (including Suboxone maintenance therapy), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, PTSD, conduct disorders, anger disorders, schizophrenia, autism, developmental delay, cognitive decline and dementia, sleep disorders, and bipolar disorder.
Derek VanCamp, DNP is a psychiatric specialist with 30 years of experience in emergency care, family practice, critical care, and psychiatric disorders. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from West Coast University Los Angeles, a Master’s degree from Vanderbilt University, a Doctoral degree from Vanderbilt University, and a Postdoctoral degree in psychiatry and mental health from Regis College of Boston. He is board-certified in acute care, gerontology, and psychiatry/mental health and specializes in treating children, adult, and geriatric patients.
![Photo of Amy Jensen, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bbb2da8-c6b4-41c7-8509-10758303e3f5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95841 (Online Only)
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
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Autism Psychiatrists
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.