Autism Therapists in Tampa, FL
![Photo of Bright Horizons - Bright Horizons Behavior Therapy, MA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6c70de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bright Horizons Behavior Therapy is dedicated to providing effective and comprehensive in-home and in-school therapy and consultation services for the families of children diagnosed with Autism and Developmental Disabilities.
Bright Horizons Behavior Therapy provides services to the following counties: Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, De Soto, Pasco, and Hernando. The company was formed due to the growing need for effective, individualized and economical in-home services and in-school services for families with children diagnosed with ASD and Developmental Disabilites. We understand that every child is different. Bright Horizon's Board Certified Consultants develop individualized programs to fit the unique needs of your child. We also provide therapy sessions with Spanish speaking therapists.
Bright Horizons Behavior Therapy is dedicated to providing effective and comprehensive in-home and in-school therapy and consultation services for the families of children diagnosed with Autism and Developmental Disabilities.
Bright Horizons Behavior Therapy provides services to the following counties: Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, De Soto, Pasco, and Hernando. The company was formed due to the growing need for effective, individualized and economical in-home services and in-school services for families with children diagnosed with ASD and Developmental Disabilites. We understand that every child is different. Bright Horizon's Board Certified Consultants develop individualized programs to fit the unique needs of your child. We also provide therapy sessions with Spanish speaking therapists.
![Photo of Dr. Monica Lake - Dr. Lake & Associates, PsyD, CAS, MS, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526d9cdd-7734-4b70-9bd1-e49f214ed093/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lake & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, CAS, MS, NCSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
Hi! Are you looking for a practice that is collaborative and supportive? We are your neighborhood clinicians providing therapy and testing services that result in practical and highly effective outcomes. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of challenge emotions, attention difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, bipolar, learning concerns (dyslexia, dyscalculia, etc.), behavioral problems, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), relationship problems, giftedness, and others. Our services are available online and in person.
Hi! Are you looking for a practice that is collaborative and supportive? We are your neighborhood clinicians providing therapy and testing services that result in practical and highly effective outcomes. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of challenge emotions, attention difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, bipolar, learning concerns (dyslexia, dyscalculia, etc.), behavioral problems, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), relationship problems, giftedness, and others. Our services are available online and in person.
![Photo of Adairis Balsa Alfonso, LMHC, CCAPT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f609516c-2cf4-48ec-9e93-446f410ea61f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adairis Balsa Alfonso
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33626 (Online Only)
I also have experience working in applied behavior analysis with children with autism, ADHD, ODD, etc.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma or negative thoughts? Need help with parent-child relationship, lack of confidence or behavioral issues? It may be time to speak with someone who can help without judgment. Whatever the nature of your struggle, believe it is possible to overcome. I am here for you. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, challenging unhealthy thoughts and create healthier thinking, feelings, and behaviors.
I also have experience working in applied behavior analysis with children with autism, ADHD, ODD, etc.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma or negative thoughts? Need help with parent-child relationship, lack of confidence or behavioral issues? It may be time to speak with someone who can help without judgment. Whatever the nature of your struggle, believe it is possible to overcome. I am here for you. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, challenging unhealthy thoughts and create healthier thinking, feelings, and behaviors.
![Photo of Dr. Kimberly Trimble, PhD, NCSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd0da61a-9fd5-41ac-b647-60618694de60/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Kimmy and as a Licensed School Psychologist, I specialize in the assessment of a child's functioning to help them succeed in school and life! I offer comprehensive evaluations for gifted, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and social-emotional conditions. I also have expertise in Early Childhood/Developmental evaluations for children ages 2-5 years old.
My name is Dr. Kimmy and as a Licensed School Psychologist, I specialize in the assessment of a child's functioning to help them succeed in school and life! I offer comprehensive evaluations for gifted, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and social-emotional conditions. I also have expertise in Early Childhood/Developmental evaluations for children ages 2-5 years old.
![Photo of Melissa Ann Bailey - Bailey Psychology Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73293626-b98a-4b6e-b911-7c860ff843c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to my practice, I have special interest in the field of Autism.
BPG takes all walks of life. We have therapists that can provide help throughout the lifespan.
In addition to my practice, I have special interest in the field of Autism.
BPG takes all walks of life. We have therapists that can provide help throughout the lifespan.
![Photo of River Marino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/675c87c4-7cc9-490d-9d5c-a89cf48d9e07/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide an Autism-affirming perspective in therapy and believe Autism is a genetically-based neurotype, not a medical disorder.
Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma.
I provide an Autism-affirming perspective in therapy and believe Autism is a genetically-based neurotype, not a medical disorder.
Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma.
![Photo of Kristina J. Risola - Kristina Risola Expressive Arts Therapy & Coaching, MA, CRC, NBC-HWC, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9773e099-183f-4bae-9e4e-c7c15a8d5bff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Risola Expressive Arts Therapy & Coaching
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, CRC, NBC-HWC, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647 (Online Only)
Receiving my autism diagnosis at 39 reshaped my self-understanding and deepened my commitment to guiding others.
I know what it’s like to look like you are holding it all together - you put on the mask and do all the things, but inside, you are barely holding on. Stressed out, burnt out, paralyzed with anxiety. Overwhelmed with life, relationships, and responsibilities. Stuck in survival mode, trying to keep those big feelings at bay. Asking for help feels impossible, but you are doing it. You’re ready to reconnect to your authentic self, leave behind old patterns, break generational cycles, and you know you have what it takes - you just need someone in your corner to help you get there. If this sounds like you, I’m so ready to join you!
Receiving my autism diagnosis at 39 reshaped my self-understanding and deepened my commitment to guiding others.
I know what it’s like to look like you are holding it all together - you put on the mask and do all the things, but inside, you are barely holding on. Stressed out, burnt out, paralyzed with anxiety. Overwhelmed with life, relationships, and responsibilities. Stuck in survival mode, trying to keep those big feelings at bay. Asking for help feels impossible, but you are doing it. You’re ready to reconnect to your authentic self, leave behind old patterns, break generational cycles, and you know you have what it takes - you just need someone in your corner to help you get there. If this sounds like you, I’m so ready to join you!
![Photo of Yma Campozano, MSW, RCSW-I](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04c62d27-4731-405b-b46f-e7835addcead/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yma Campozano
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSW-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33620 (Online Only)
Specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder and mental health advocacy for individuals with disabilities, my approaches are relational and queer & disability affirming.
Hi, I’m Yma A. Campozano (she/her/ella), a pre-licensed psychotherapist dedicated to empowering individuals. Are you facing unique challenges? Whether you’re dealing with acceptance, minority stress, neurodivergence, societal stigma, discrimination, or lack of family support, you deserve a safe space to express yourself and navigate your journey with confidence. My goal is to help you embrace your authentic self, develop resilience, and find the empowerment you seek.
Specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder and mental health advocacy for individuals with disabilities, my approaches are relational and queer & disability affirming.
Hi, I’m Yma A. Campozano (she/her/ella), a pre-licensed psychotherapist dedicated to empowering individuals. Are you facing unique challenges? Whether you’re dealing with acceptance, minority stress, neurodivergence, societal stigma, discrimination, or lack of family support, you deserve a safe space to express yourself and navigate your journey with confidence. My goal is to help you embrace your authentic self, develop resilience, and find the empowerment you seek.
![Photo of Thomas John Hunt-Felke - Nest Developmental Services, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b118d115-2499-488e-9af0-e1b0f65b6e0d/2/320x400.png)
I provide talk therapy and assessment for children and adults with a range of conditions, including anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, and autism (including DSM-IV Asperger's disorder).
I love helping people see new possibilities and opportunities in their life when previously they had faced difficulties, either in their external world or their internal world. I think it is incredibly meaningful to be able to support a client or a family in the process of trying new approaches to what had previously seemed to be an "impossible" situation. I also love learning about how to make our brains "work" better in our relationships, families, schools, workplaces, and other important social areas!
I provide talk therapy and assessment for children and adults with a range of conditions, including anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, and autism (including DSM-IV Asperger's disorder).
I love helping people see new possibilities and opportunities in their life when previously they had faced difficulties, either in their external world or their internal world. I think it is incredibly meaningful to be able to support a client or a family in the process of trying new approaches to what had previously seemed to be an "impossible" situation. I also love learning about how to make our brains "work" better in our relationships, families, schools, workplaces, and other important social areas!
![Photo of Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c661c95-6020-4f3f-ba2b-2b1949cd1ebf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Lomando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647 (Online Only)
Autism is another focus Patricia has personal and professional ties to.
Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, provides neurodivergent affirming services for the child, adolescent, and adult. Depression and anxiety are passions focused on throughout her career. Using sandtray, expressive arts, Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, she explores mood and prevention patterns, collaborates on coping strategies and helps identify those sometimes elusive gifts that are part of every neurotype. With expansive certifications in Registered Play Therapy and Infant Mental Health, she works through methodologies that bridge family gaps and help “translate” the child’s language through play, art and sand tray work.
Autism is another focus Patricia has personal and professional ties to.
Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, provides neurodivergent affirming services for the child, adolescent, and adult. Depression and anxiety are passions focused on throughout her career. Using sandtray, expressive arts, Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, she explores mood and prevention patterns, collaborates on coping strategies and helps identify those sometimes elusive gifts that are part of every neurotype. With expansive certifications in Registered Play Therapy and Infant Mental Health, she works through methodologies that bridge family gaps and help “translate” the child’s language through play, art and sand tray work.
![Photo of Sandra DeVoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f77c9ada-5b5d-43f8-94e7-3ccdcbac7a82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra DeVoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and understand neurodivergence.
I am a warm, gentle, non-judgemental therapist that has over 10years of experience. I support people with both professionally diagnosed and self-diagnosed neurodiversity. I am trauma informed regarding both big and small traumas. I specialized in working with people who are neurodivergent (autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, TBI, and learning disabilities). I have lived experience as a neurodivergent person. I can also help support caregivers and family members who are learning to have more compassion and understanding of family members with formally and self-diagnosed autism or ADHD.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and understand neurodivergence.
I am a warm, gentle, non-judgemental therapist that has over 10years of experience. I support people with both professionally diagnosed and self-diagnosed neurodiversity. I am trauma informed regarding both big and small traumas. I specialized in working with people who are neurodivergent (autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, TBI, and learning disabilities). I have lived experience as a neurodivergent person. I can also help support caregivers and family members who are learning to have more compassion and understanding of family members with formally and self-diagnosed autism or ADHD.
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![Photo of Christal L. Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/049f79ea-fae9-44bf-b5b3-88bf728119df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christal L. Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients with developmental diagnoses such as Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, discouraged or uncertain of what to do? Unfortunately, that's part of the human experience some times. I take pleasure in helping individuals and parents navigate through difficult situations. However, you are the expert on yourself and your family! I will partner with you to offer insight, guidance and support as you discover the tools that will empower you to create the life of your choice. My counseling approach is to provide a fun, safe, warm, inviting, genuine, nonjudgmental zone to promote self-love, healing, growth and self-discovery.
I specialize in working with clients with developmental diagnoses such as Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, discouraged or uncertain of what to do? Unfortunately, that's part of the human experience some times. I take pleasure in helping individuals and parents navigate through difficult situations. However, you are the expert on yourself and your family! I will partner with you to offer insight, guidance and support as you discover the tools that will empower you to create the life of your choice. My counseling approach is to provide a fun, safe, warm, inviting, genuine, nonjudgmental zone to promote self-love, healing, growth and self-discovery.
![Photo of Megan Clements, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba67bea8-9025-42f9-8b62-5b9d59ed5f2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm Megan Clements. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Advanced Certified Autism Specialist. With a background in education, I have a decade of experience working with youth from toddlerhood through early adulthood. Though originally from South Florida, Megan obtained her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University’s School of Medicine.
Hi! I'm Megan Clements. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Advanced Certified Autism Specialist. With a background in education, I have a decade of experience working with youth from toddlerhood through early adulthood. Though originally from South Florida, Megan obtained her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University’s School of Medicine.
![Photo of Alexa Wernick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daa7f5e4-37c7-471c-b191-f967c3bbd2c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Wernick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33614 (Online Only)
I'm a dedicated and creative provider of evidence-based therapy for children, adolescents, and families. I have a certificate in Child & Family Therapy, extensive understanding of child development, and utilize modalities including CBT, play therapy, SPACE, PMT, and talk therapy in my practice. I strongly value a team approach, collaborating with families, schools, and others engaged in a child’s life. I specialize in working with children experiencing anxiety, ADHD, social skill difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and supporting families in navigating their child's needs through parent coaching. Licensed NY, CT, FL, NJ
I'm a dedicated and creative provider of evidence-based therapy for children, adolescents, and families. I have a certificate in Child & Family Therapy, extensive understanding of child development, and utilize modalities including CBT, play therapy, SPACE, PMT, and talk therapy in my practice. I strongly value a team approach, collaborating with families, schools, and others engaged in a child’s life. I specialize in working with children experiencing anxiety, ADHD, social skill difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and supporting families in navigating their child's needs through parent coaching. Licensed NY, CT, FL, NJ
![Photo of Justine Connolly, PhD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f66eb6c5-58cd-4d4e-8923-95d9c2bc86d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 13 years of experience serving children, adolescents, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds and across a variety of settings including public schools, alternative education, residential treatment centers, in-patient hospitals, and outpatient clinics. I have extensive experience in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments and providing therapeutic treatment in the areas of ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, childhood trauma, family conflicts, and anger management.
I have over 13 years of experience serving children, adolescents, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds and across a variety of settings including public schools, alternative education, residential treatment centers, in-patient hospitals, and outpatient clinics. I have extensive experience in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments and providing therapeutic treatment in the areas of ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, childhood trauma, family conflicts, and anger management.
![Photo of Meagan Zeiger, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efcf4728-69df-4728-b47b-8fc03271afed/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Sunstate, we specialize in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorders. Our goal is to partner with individuals, parents, and caregivers to identify specific strengths and weaknesses through psychological testing.
At Sunstate, we specialize in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorders. Our goal is to partner with individuals, parents, and caregivers to identify specific strengths and weaknesses through psychological testing.
![Photo of Kimberly Hubinger, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fd9cd16-c974-4101-80f5-6c4a561b4839/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in ADHD/ ADD testing, Learning Disability Evaluations, Gifted and IQ testing, Emotional Functioning, Personality Assessments, Developmental Delay and Autism Spectrum Disorder Evaluations, PTSD Evaluations.
Welcome! I specialize in offering psychological assessments, which includes ADHD and learning disability evaluations. My passion is helping families and individuals in the Tampa Bay area assess, understand, and find targeted treatment for their own or their child's unique abilities. I strive to work with you to find the customized assessments to guide treatment planning, whether for a child, adolescent, or adult. I believe that identifying specific needs opens the door to proper services as well as targeted treatment to best facilitate growth. I am passionate about providing a safe and collaborative, nonjudgmental atmosphere.
I specialize in ADHD/ ADD testing, Learning Disability Evaluations, Gifted and IQ testing, Emotional Functioning, Personality Assessments, Developmental Delay and Autism Spectrum Disorder Evaluations, PTSD Evaluations.
Welcome! I specialize in offering psychological assessments, which includes ADHD and learning disability evaluations. My passion is helping families and individuals in the Tampa Bay area assess, understand, and find targeted treatment for their own or their child's unique abilities. I strive to work with you to find the customized assessments to guide treatment planning, whether for a child, adolescent, or adult. I believe that identifying specific needs opens the door to proper services as well as targeted treatment to best facilitate growth. I am passionate about providing a safe and collaborative, nonjudgmental atmosphere.
![Photo of Matt McCann, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/807d2959-7719-4e43-850e-93cd1a13292e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt McCann is a licensed mental health counselor at Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists. He specializes in the treatment of individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. He has also worked with clients who have high functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Matt has worked with and studied under leading researchers in the field of OCD and anxiety disorders, including Dr. Eric Storch, at Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa, a higher level of care for severe cases of OCD and anxiety disorders.
Matt McCann is a licensed mental health counselor at Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists. He specializes in the treatment of individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. He has also worked with clients who have high functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Matt has worked with and studied under leading researchers in the field of OCD and anxiety disorders, including Dr. Eric Storch, at Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa, a higher level of care for severe cases of OCD and anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Brittany Bevilacqua, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ffe6ce8-01b1-4898-afdb-97a3a444fc6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also provide evaluations for learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, and giftedness.
Every one of us is feeling overwhelmed these days! I know how difficult it can be to know where to start sometimes, particularly if you are going through challenging times. Please know you are not alone, and I am here to help you. Mental health is about promoting wellness, not just relieving illness. All of us get “stuck” in life, including the “professionals”…that’s what it means to be human! Life throws us many curveballs, and we aren’t given manuals on how to handle it all. But, I firmly believe that challenges can become opportunities to learn more about ourselves, and to regain our personal power.
I also provide evaluations for learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, and giftedness.
Every one of us is feeling overwhelmed these days! I know how difficult it can be to know where to start sometimes, particularly if you are going through challenging times. Please know you are not alone, and I am here to help you. Mental health is about promoting wellness, not just relieving illness. All of us get “stuck” in life, including the “professionals”…that’s what it means to be human! Life throws us many curveballs, and we aren’t given manuals on how to handle it all. But, I firmly believe that challenges can become opportunities to learn more about ourselves, and to regain our personal power.
![Photo of Jennica K Robe, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df6a7823-681b-45b9-a6c2-c749320f24a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gender affirming, LGBT+, ADHD, Autism, PDA, OCD, school challenges, family therapy.
My specialization in working with the autistic and neurodivergent community, including those navigating OCD, trauma recovery, and depression is not just professional; it’s rooted in my own life. My dedication is also to supporting individuals on their journeys through gender and sexual identity exploration. I support teens, adults, couples and families in an autism-affirming space using a mindfulness based approach. My areas of focus include PDA, autistic burnout recovery, unmasking, anxiety and psychosis.
Gender affirming, LGBT+, ADHD, Autism, PDA, OCD, school challenges, family therapy.
My specialization in working with the autistic and neurodivergent community, including those navigating OCD, trauma recovery, and depression is not just professional; it’s rooted in my own life. My dedication is also to supporting individuals on their journeys through gender and sexual identity exploration. I support teens, adults, couples and families in an autism-affirming space using a mindfulness based approach. My areas of focus include PDA, autistic burnout recovery, unmasking, anxiety and psychosis.
See more therapy options for Tampa
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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.