Autism Therapists in Ocala, FL

Photo of Erica Justine Zeno - First StrideZ Counseling, LMHC, QS, Counselor
First StrideZ Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
We are expertly trained in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infant mental health 0-6, Pregnancy/birth, parenting, marriage counseling, child/teen, PTSD, veterans, autism spectrum, OCD, bipolar, addiction, EMDR, severe mental illness and more.
Erica Zeno, LMHC-QS and her team at First StrideZ Counseling are dedicated to providing a full spectrum of evidence-based, integrative psychological services in order to advance and promote the emotional, behavioral, and developmental well-being of young individuals, adults, couples and their families. Many complications arise throughout a life time let us assist you in walking through the fires. (depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infant mental health 0-6, OCD, bipolar, EMDR, severe mental illness and more
We are expertly trained in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infant mental health 0-6, Pregnancy/birth, parenting, marriage counseling, child/teen, PTSD, veterans, autism spectrum, OCD, bipolar, addiction, EMDR, severe mental illness and more.
Erica Zeno, LMHC-QS and her team at First StrideZ Counseling are dedicated to providing a full spectrum of evidence-based, integrative psychological services in order to advance and promote the emotional, behavioral, and developmental well-being of young individuals, adults, couples and their families. Many complications arise throughout a life time let us assist you in walking through the fires. (depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infant mental health 0-6, OCD, bipolar, EMDR, severe mental illness and more
(352) 280-3832 View (352) 280-3832
Photo of Amber Benamou, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Benamou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I've been a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Florida for the past 12 years. I've worked in different areas of practice, including community mental health, addictions, and with children and families. I have a special place in my heart for helping adults in their 20's, 30's and 40's, parents of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and individuals with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I strive to be my most authentic self and when appropriate, sprinkle in some humor into our sessions.
I've been a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Florida for the past 12 years. I've worked in different areas of practice, including community mental health, addictions, and with children and families. I have a special place in my heart for helping adults in their 20's, 30's and 40's, parents of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and individuals with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I strive to be my most authentic self and when appropriate, sprinkle in some humor into our sessions.
(954) 945-9942 View (954) 945-9942
Photo of Dr. Leisha Tompkins, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Leisha Tompkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34473  (Online Only)
You've taken the initiative to give therapy a try. Maybe you or your child are feeling overwhelmed by stress, social situations, or mood fluctuations. My approach involves a felt sense of safety and connection, including evidence-based therapies such as IFS, CBT, and therapy through a Polyvagal (trauma) Theory lens. An experienced clinical psychologist offering therapy & testing, I offer expertise on neurodivergence as well as pressures affecting all kids & young adults. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, ASD, emotional, or other difficulties. Psychologist accepting new clients for online therapy, kids through young adults. Email me!
You've taken the initiative to give therapy a try. Maybe you or your child are feeling overwhelmed by stress, social situations, or mood fluctuations. My approach involves a felt sense of safety and connection, including evidence-based therapies such as IFS, CBT, and therapy through a Polyvagal (trauma) Theory lens. An experienced clinical psychologist offering therapy & testing, I offer expertise on neurodivergence as well as pressures affecting all kids & young adults. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, ASD, emotional, or other difficulties. Psychologist accepting new clients for online therapy, kids through young adults. Email me!
(352) 677-2444 View (352) 677-2444
Photo of Maria Puentes, LMHC
Maria Puentes
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481
Experienced and compassionate licensed mental health counselor with a strong ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Skilled in providing high-quality care and implementing effective interventions for trauma, substance use, mental health disorders, and developmental disorders.
Experienced and compassionate licensed mental health counselor with a strong ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Skilled in providing high-quality care and implementing effective interventions for trauma, substance use, mental health disorders, and developmental disorders.
(689) 302-2892 View (689) 302-2892
Photo of Juwariya Quddus, MA, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Juwariya Quddus
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone” -Olivera. As a skilled therapist I look forward to facilitating and supporting you on your inner work journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you’re here, then maybe it’s time to experience the transformative power of therapy. You’ll be empowered to work through struggles with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, marriage/family, and relationship issues, to name a few, by cultivating resilience, developing coping skills, and fostering meaningful relationships.
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone” -Olivera. As a skilled therapist I look forward to facilitating and supporting you on your inner work journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you’re here, then maybe it’s time to experience the transformative power of therapy. You’ll be empowered to work through struggles with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, marriage/family, and relationship issues, to name a few, by cultivating resilience, developing coping skills, and fostering meaningful relationships.
(352) 436-6843 View (352) 436-6843
Photo of Deborah E Cohen, LMFT, CHT, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah E Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
(916) 251-9983 View (916) 251-9983
Photo of Brandy S. Forman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy S. Forman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471  (Online Only)
I'm a local who has worked in the Ocala/Marion County area for over 15 years. My focus is client-centered talk therapy using various modalities based on the needs of my clients. My goal is to provide a safe space where clients can heal and live their most fulfilling and dignified lives.
I'm a local who has worked in the Ocala/Marion County area for over 15 years. My focus is client-centered talk therapy using various modalities based on the needs of my clients. My goal is to provide a safe space where clients can heal and live their most fulfilling and dignified lives.
(352) 218-1628 View (352) 218-1628
Photo of Ulysa Mashell Muirhead, MA, RBT, QMHP, BA
Ulysa Mashell Muirhead
MA, RBT, QMHP, BA
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470  (Online Only)
Hello! Do you find yourself struggling with thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Are you in search of real support, instead of conformity telling you to "suck it up," "get over it" or "take your medication." Many of us turn to self-medication. But you don't have to settle for just "getting by." Experience client centered treatment planning TODAY!
Hello! Do you find yourself struggling with thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Are you in search of real support, instead of conformity telling you to "suck it up," "get over it" or "take your medication." Many of us turn to self-medication. But you don't have to settle for just "getting by." Experience client centered treatment planning TODAY!
(352) 833-8598 View (352) 833-8598
Photo of Joshua L. Sarmiento - Ignite Community Counseling & Resource Center, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, CTT, NCC, Counselor
Ignite Community Counseling & Resource Center
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, CTT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
Ignite Community Counseling and Resource Center provides a wide range of Outpatient and In-Home Psychotherapy services to help people of all ages and ethnicities, identify and modify behaviors, learn positive coping mechanisms and find healthy outlets for expressing feelings.
Ignite Community Counseling and Resource Center provides a wide range of Outpatient and In-Home Psychotherapy services to help people of all ages and ethnicities, identify and modify behaviors, learn positive coping mechanisms and find healthy outlets for expressing feelings.
(352) 436-6012 View (352) 436-6012
Photo of Brynne C Dearie, LMFT, MCAP, CSAT, ASDCS, CTTP-II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brynne C Dearie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MCAP, CSAT, ASDCS, CTTP-II
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34471  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My most improved clients are the ones who have been told they're too smart for their own good, struggle with existential or spiritual angst, feel displaced, want to be pushed and challenged while utterly supported, need clarity on whether or not they have victimized or been victimized, have questions for which they have been told there are no answers, suffer from unprocessed or complicated grief, need help applying the knowledge they already posses, who feel like they are "too much," are afraid of feelings, and require an absolutely neutral and judgement free space to be vulnerable.
My most improved clients are the ones who have been told they're too smart for their own good, struggle with existential or spiritual angst, feel displaced, want to be pushed and challenged while utterly supported, need clarity on whether or not they have victimized or been victimized, have questions for which they have been told there are no answers, suffer from unprocessed or complicated grief, need help applying the knowledge they already posses, who feel like they are "too much," are afraid of feelings, and require an absolutely neutral and judgement free space to be vulnerable.
(352) 320-5628 View (352) 320-5628
Photo of Michael Weaver, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Michael Weaver
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470  (Online Only)
Has your stress level climbed above the red line and resulted in issues with depressed mood, anxiety or anger? Have you tried to deal with this on your own, only to find yourself getting nowhere? If so, contact us to overcome these problems within yourself, with your family, friends or coworkers. Take the first step, call, and we will help you to find a way back to becoming a healthier you! When you are ready, help is always available at Rapha Counseling from Michael Weaver, MS, LMHC or Debby Weaver, MA, RMHCI.
Has your stress level climbed above the red line and resulted in issues with depressed mood, anxiety or anger? Have you tried to deal with this on your own, only to find yourself getting nowhere? If so, contact us to overcome these problems within yourself, with your family, friends or coworkers. Take the first step, call, and we will help you to find a way back to becoming a healthier you! When you are ready, help is always available at Rapha Counseling from Michael Weaver, MS, LMHC or Debby Weaver, MA, RMHCI.
(352) 547-5729 View (352) 547-5729
Photo of Kara Barrentine, LMHC, Counselor
Kara Barrentine
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by daily obligations? Do you find yourself having difficulty focusing? Maybe you find yourself thinking you’re not good enough or feel like an imposter. I know exactly what you’re feeling: feeling things are out of your control, the tension in your body, the feeling you can’t possibly get everything done without disappointing others and you want relief now. Anxiety can be debilitating, and I don’t want you to have to suffer anymore. Reframing thinking patterns can significantly reduce anxiety, and I look forward to teaching you the strategies that will give you your life back.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by daily obligations? Do you find yourself having difficulty focusing? Maybe you find yourself thinking you’re not good enough or feel like an imposter. I know exactly what you’re feeling: feeling things are out of your control, the tension in your body, the feeling you can’t possibly get everything done without disappointing others and you want relief now. Anxiety can be debilitating, and I don’t want you to have to suffer anymore. Reframing thinking patterns can significantly reduce anxiety, and I look forward to teaching you the strategies that will give you your life back.
(850) 616-2097 View (850) 616-2097
Photo of Zhanna Caroline Cohen, MS, LMHC
Zhanna Caroline Cohen
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Life brings many challenges and hardships. You may be burdened by insecurities, fears, anger, or resentment. Relationships or work may be unsatisfying. Most likely you have tried to feel better on your own; some things may have helped, but not always fully or lasting. The source of some problems can be identified, while other problems are vague and unclear. In the end, you come with your own set of difficulties and life circumstances. I believe psychotherapy enhances our natural tendency to understand ourselves as we strive to realize our hopes and aspirations.
Life brings many challenges and hardships. You may be burdened by insecurities, fears, anger, or resentment. Relationships or work may be unsatisfying. Most likely you have tried to feel better on your own; some things may have helped, but not always fully or lasting. The source of some problems can be identified, while other problems are vague and unclear. In the end, you come with your own set of difficulties and life circumstances. I believe psychotherapy enhances our natural tendency to understand ourselves as we strive to realize our hopes and aspirations.
(203) 587-4304 View (203) 587-4304
Photo of Clint Ross, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Clint Ross
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I am so glad you’ve taken this important step towards caring for your mental well-being. Whether you’re facing challenges, seeking growth, or just wanting to talk, I am here for you. My mission is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, and find the support you need to thrive. Every journey begins with a single step, and by reaching out, you’ve already shown courage and resilience. I am dedicated and committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges, discover your strengths, and achieve your personal goals. We believe in the power of healing through conversation and problem solving.
I am so glad you’ve taken this important step towards caring for your mental well-being. Whether you’re facing challenges, seeking growth, or just wanting to talk, I am here for you. My mission is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, and find the support you need to thrive. Every journey begins with a single step, and by reaching out, you’ve already shown courage and resilience. I am dedicated and committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges, discover your strengths, and achieve your personal goals. We believe in the power of healing through conversation and problem solving.
(727) 513-4689 View (727) 513-4689
Photo of Ernest J Bordini, PhD, Psychologist
Ernest J Bordini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470
Thirty years of experience providing clinical and forensic adult and pediatric neuropsychological assessement. This includes head injuries, developmental disoders, ADHD, LD, Asperger's. Forensic evaluations are conducted by retainer by defense (IME/CME) or by plaintiff attorney. Recognized as expert in state and federal court. Most of my psychotherapy is geared to longer term insight-oriented treatment and I enjoy working with physicians, professionals, officers and military.
Thirty years of experience providing clinical and forensic adult and pediatric neuropsychological assessement. This includes head injuries, developmental disoders, ADHD, LD, Asperger's. Forensic evaluations are conducted by retainer by defense (IME/CME) or by plaintiff attorney. Recognized as expert in state and federal court. Most of my psychotherapy is geared to longer term insight-oriented treatment and I enjoy working with physicians, professionals, officers and military.
(352) 729-3230 View (352) 729-3230
Photo of Jessica Barreto, LMHC
Jessica Barreto
LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Se ofrece Psicoterapia en Español! You are feeling worried or depressed, or just tired of the everyday routine and desiring more in life? Or do you worry about your son or daughter’s anxiety, depression, pessimism, or their behaviors out of control? Or as a parent do you feel lost, exhausted, or alone? As humans big or small, we all go through challenging times, we all experience sadness, worry, and stress. However, there are times that we might feel too stuck, too lost, and too overwhelmed to do anything. Life doesn’t have to stay this way. I can help you turn things around and move toward living your absolute best life ever!
Se ofrece Psicoterapia en Español! You are feeling worried or depressed, or just tired of the everyday routine and desiring more in life? Or do you worry about your son or daughter’s anxiety, depression, pessimism, or their behaviors out of control? Or as a parent do you feel lost, exhausted, or alone? As humans big or small, we all go through challenging times, we all experience sadness, worry, and stress. However, there are times that we might feel too stuck, too lost, and too overwhelmed to do anything. Life doesn’t have to stay this way. I can help you turn things around and move toward living your absolute best life ever!
(239) 256-3128 View (239) 256-3128
Photo of Katie Belcher-Miller, LMHC, QS, CAS, Counselor
Katie Belcher-Miller
Counselor, LMHC, QS, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting New Baycare EAP and Open Path Collective Clients! Have a short Waitlist for all other clients! Hello, I'm Katie, owner of Anchored in Hope Counseling Services LLC. Do you identify as neurodivergent or suspect you may be? Do you struggle with anxiety or some type of mood issue? If you answered "yes" to either question (or both!), then I might be the right therapist for you.
Accepting New Baycare EAP and Open Path Collective Clients! Have a short Waitlist for all other clients! Hello, I'm Katie, owner of Anchored in Hope Counseling Services LLC. Do you identify as neurodivergent or suspect you may be? Do you struggle with anxiety or some type of mood issue? If you answered "yes" to either question (or both!), then I might be the right therapist for you.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Casey Whitman, LMHC, Counselor
Casey Whitman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University and have been practicing for 8 years. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in school systems, a crisis stabilization unit, and community mental health agencies. I enjoy working with both children and adults to find healthy and positive ways to cope with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University and have been practicing for 8 years. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in school systems, a crisis stabilization unit, and community mental health agencies. I enjoy working with both children and adults to find healthy and positive ways to cope with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress.
(786) 947-9728 View (786) 947-9728
Photo of Rebecca Penta Rose, LMHC, MM, Counselor
Rebecca Penta Rose
Counselor, LMHC, MM
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Are you a creative person looking for a unique approach to therapy? If you can imagine singing, writing or playing music as part of your ideal therapy session then you've come to the right place. I believe creativity is a way to work through challenges and move forward. I utilize expressive music processes in therapy (singing, songwriting, musical improvisation, movement, etc.) to help my clients. With a masters degree in music and over 20 years experience in the fields of music therapy, arts-based community facilitation, and music education, I provide my clients a safe space to express themselves, problem-solve and grow.
Are you a creative person looking for a unique approach to therapy? If you can imagine singing, writing or playing music as part of your ideal therapy session then you've come to the right place. I believe creativity is a way to work through challenges and move forward. I utilize expressive music processes in therapy (singing, songwriting, musical improvisation, movement, etc.) to help my clients. With a masters degree in music and over 20 years experience in the fields of music therapy, arts-based community facilitation, and music education, I provide my clients a safe space to express themselves, problem-solve and grow.
(904) 664-0101 View (904) 664-0101
Photo of Jennifer Grau-Keyser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Grau-Keyser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed with stressors and not sure how to manage the following emotions that cause a disruption of happiness? Do you ever feel like you’re not enough or a burden to others? Does your history of trauma seem to keep you from moving in a forward direction and prevents you from fulfillment? Welcome! You have taken the first step to rediscovering yourself. It's my goal to help guide you in the direction of healing so you can be the person you desire to be.
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed with stressors and not sure how to manage the following emotions that cause a disruption of happiness? Do you ever feel like you’re not enough or a burden to others? Does your history of trauma seem to keep you from moving in a forward direction and prevents you from fulfillment? Welcome! You have taken the first step to rediscovering yourself. It's my goal to help guide you in the direction of healing so you can be the person you desire to be.
(305) 419-2197 View (305) 419-2197
1
Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.