Autism Therapists in Montrose, CA

Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montrose, CA 91020
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 798-9774 View (323) 798-9774
Photo of Jacqueline Bush, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jacqueline Bush
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montrose, CA 91020
Hi, my name is Jacqueline and I am a trauma-informed AMFT specializing in attachment repair and grief. If you are frustrated with your relationships, whether single or in partnership, or dealing with the loss of a loved one, I am your person. I specialize in working with men and couples. I strongly believe in a fully comprehensive approach to healing for lasting change and am very passionate about the mind-body approach and more progressive techniques. I have received specialized training in EMDR, somatics, and grief. While newer to my skill set, I am also training in the highly effective DBT.
Hi, my name is Jacqueline and I am a trauma-informed AMFT specializing in attachment repair and grief. If you are frustrated with your relationships, whether single or in partnership, or dealing with the loss of a loved one, I am your person. I specialize in working with men and couples. I strongly believe in a fully comprehensive approach to healing for lasting change and am very passionate about the mind-body approach and more progressive techniques. I have received specialized training in EMDR, somatics, and grief. While newer to my skill set, I am also training in the highly effective DBT.
(818) 464-4319 View (818) 464-4319
Photo of Dr. Erin O'Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Erin O'Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montrose, CA 91020
Are you a parent who is concerned about their child or teenager's anxiety, depression, attention, social skills, or school functioning? I am here to help. I am a licensed psychologist who has 20 years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, families, and parents. I have specific expertise in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD in children, teens, and young adults. I use therapy approaches that are evidence-based so your child or teen and family can feel better soon, and cope better with their problems. I also conduct psychoeducational and neuropsychological assessments to diagnose learning problems, & ADHD.
Are you a parent who is concerned about their child or teenager's anxiety, depression, attention, social skills, or school functioning? I am here to help. I am a licensed psychologist who has 20 years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, families, and parents. I have specific expertise in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD in children, teens, and young adults. I use therapy approaches that are evidence-based so your child or teen and family can feel better soon, and cope better with their problems. I also conduct psychoeducational and neuropsychological assessments to diagnose learning problems, & ADHD.
(818) 650-3161 View (818) 650-3161
Photo of Bonnie Brazell, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bonnie Brazell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montrose, CA 91020
Often times the greatest barrier to our healing is feeling like we are alone and have to fix things ourselves. We were never meant to walk this life alone. This is why it is my commitment as a therapist to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can receive hope in the healing process.
Often times the greatest barrier to our healing is feeling like we are alone and have to fix things ourselves. We were never meant to walk this life alone. This is why it is my commitment as a therapist to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can receive hope in the healing process.
(949) 997-1265 View (949) 997-1265
Photo of Tara Gilmaher, LMFT, MFA, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara Gilmaher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFA, CHT
Verified Verified
Montrose, CA 91020  (Online Only)
"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." ~ Carl Jung. Do you feel overwhelmed, have pain, grief, anxiety, depression, or unseen shadows that prevent you from healing or from choosing better decisions, relationships, and allowing yourself to matter in your own life? My experience and education can help people hungering for more purpose, fulfillment, and nurturing relationships instead of dissonance, exhaustion, and sacrifice, those who know what you were aiming for, but discovered you’re at the top of the wrong ladder. If you feel like you’re different or unseen, then I may be the psychotherapist you’ve sought.
"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." ~ Carl Jung. Do you feel overwhelmed, have pain, grief, anxiety, depression, or unseen shadows that prevent you from healing or from choosing better decisions, relationships, and allowing yourself to matter in your own life? My experience and education can help people hungering for more purpose, fulfillment, and nurturing relationships instead of dissonance, exhaustion, and sacrifice, those who know what you were aiming for, but discovered you’re at the top of the wrong ladder. If you feel like you’re different or unseen, then I may be the psychotherapist you’ve sought.
(805) 303-5321 View (805) 303-5321
Photo of Grace Akopyan - Glendale - Therapy with Grace -Grace Akopyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glendale - Therapy with Grace -Grace Akopyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Montrose, CA 91020
Couples Counseling (Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Relationship Therapy) is my specialty! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Pepperdine University Couples Counseling Therapy professor that holds over a decade of experience in the field. Clients leave my sessions felling empowered, in control, with better communication, deepening intimacy, and learning how to navigate the dynamics in their relationship. For those of you that are not ready to start couples counseling or need individual growth and acceptance, I can help! Glendale Therapy with Grace in CA - www.therapywithgrace.net
Couples Counseling (Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Relationship Therapy) is my specialty! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Pepperdine University Couples Counseling Therapy professor that holds over a decade of experience in the field. Clients leave my sessions felling empowered, in control, with better communication, deepening intimacy, and learning how to navigate the dynamics in their relationship. For those of you that are not ready to start couples counseling or need individual growth and acceptance, I can help! Glendale Therapy with Grace in CA - www.therapywithgrace.net
(747) 350-1387 View (747) 350-1387

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Jade Starleaf, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jade Starleaf
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
Dr. Jade Starleaf is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodiverse children, adolescents, and their families. She has extensive clinical expertise working with autism, OCD, ADHD, selective mutism, and other anxiety related disorders. In addition to therapy, Dr. Jade (as her patients call her) provides comprehensive neurodevelopmental diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults. This can be especially helpful in order to obtain specific clinical, academic, or workplace accommodations.
Dr. Jade Starleaf is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodiverse children, adolescents, and their families. She has extensive clinical expertise working with autism, OCD, ADHD, selective mutism, and other anxiety related disorders. In addition to therapy, Dr. Jade (as her patients call her) provides comprehensive neurodevelopmental diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults. This can be especially helpful in order to obtain specific clinical, academic, or workplace accommodations.
(818) 654-4095 View (818) 654-4095
Photo of Andrea Price, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Andrea Price
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I work with kids, teens and young adults with issues related to: ADHD, autism, OCD, phobias, depression, anxiety, giftedness, 2e, social skills, chronic illness, divorce, school refusal and encopresis.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents in working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework. I have a special interest & training in working with kids who have both an OCD and autism or ADHD diagnosis.
I work with kids, teens and young adults with issues related to: ADHD, autism, OCD, phobias, depression, anxiety, giftedness, 2e, social skills, chronic illness, divorce, school refusal and encopresis.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents in working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework. I have a special interest & training in working with kids who have both an OCD and autism or ADHD diagnosis.
(323) 894-0263 View (323) 894-0263
Photo of Sydney Petersen, MS LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sydney Petersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Sydney Petersen, a trauma-informed, EMDR-trained, and neurodiverse-affirming Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in working with individuals and parents of individuals with a variety of diverse needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury survivor and others. Whether you are processing a new diagnosis or a new life stage in your life or your child’s life, the load you carry can be overwhelming. Much of what you do goes unseen, unheard, and not fully understood by most, even your inner circles. You carry so much. How do you make sense of all of the things you do, see and hold.
Hi, I’m Sydney Petersen, a trauma-informed, EMDR-trained, and neurodiverse-affirming Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in working with individuals and parents of individuals with a variety of diverse needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury survivor and others. Whether you are processing a new diagnosis or a new life stage in your life or your child’s life, the load you carry can be overwhelming. Much of what you do goes unseen, unheard, and not fully understood by most, even your inner circles. You carry so much. How do you make sense of all of the things you do, see and hold.
(818) 308-1703 View (818) 308-1703
Photo of Britney Holthouser - Animating Principle's Workshop, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Animating Principle's Workshop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
The Workshop specializes in anxiety, neurodiversity ( Autism, giftedness, ADHD) & low confidence.
Animating Principle's Workshop is where compassion and critical thinking meet. From the neurodivergent, whimsical, creative minds of Animating Principle's husband and wife duo, Britney and Sean, the Workshop is a one-of-a-kind space that offers a variety of individual and group personal enrichment and therapy services. The Workshop's unique classes promote positive socialization, psychoeducation, and healthy coping for children and teens. Art, Lego, STEM, Disney-themed coping classes and more available, as well as traditional, play, CBT, and art therapy for all ages.
The Workshop specializes in anxiety, neurodiversity ( Autism, giftedness, ADHD) & low confidence.
Animating Principle's Workshop is where compassion and critical thinking meet. From the neurodivergent, whimsical, creative minds of Animating Principle's husband and wife duo, Britney and Sean, the Workshop is a one-of-a-kind space that offers a variety of individual and group personal enrichment and therapy services. The Workshop's unique classes promote positive socialization, psychoeducation, and healthy coping for children and teens. Art, Lego, STEM, Disney-themed coping classes and more available, as well as traditional, play, CBT, and art therapy for all ages.
(747) 302-4636 View (747) 302-4636
Photo of Tonya Bauhofer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tonya Bauhofer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91214
I have a son with autism and understand the struggles parents face when they get a diagnosis for their child such as this.
Hello, I'm Tonya Bauhofer, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe every person has the strength within them to solve their problems and improve their wellness, therapy provides a safe place to explore and leverage those strengths. I am a partner and encouraging coach on your journey to creating your definition of a happy, healthy lifestyle. My passion is working with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families. Anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, anxieties with life transitions, loss, grief, divorce.
I have a son with autism and understand the struggles parents face when they get a diagnosis for their child such as this.
Hello, I'm Tonya Bauhofer, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe every person has the strength within them to solve their problems and improve their wellness, therapy provides a safe place to explore and leverage those strengths. I am a partner and encouraging coach on your journey to creating your definition of a happy, healthy lifestyle. My passion is working with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families. Anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, anxieties with life transitions, loss, grief, divorce.
(760) 292-3267 View (760) 292-3267
Photo of Richard LaBrie, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard LaBrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
(626) 765-3076 View (626) 765-3076
Photo of Lindsay Snaer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lindsay Snaer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91208
I work with a multitude of challenges, such as emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, academics, peer conflict, low self-esteem, attachment issues, grief, substance use, Autism & ADHD.
Animating Principle is where critical thinking meets compassion! As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I pride myself on utilizing my sharp clinical skills to deliver compassionate therapy in a creative, non-clinical setting. I provide therapy to all ages on a wide range of presenting issues using an integrative approach. I also facilitate groups, and offer mentoring and coping classes for youth. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Existential, and Solution Focused.
I work with a multitude of challenges, such as emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, academics, peer conflict, low self-esteem, attachment issues, grief, substance use, Autism & ADHD.
Animating Principle is where critical thinking meets compassion! As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I pride myself on utilizing my sharp clinical skills to deliver compassionate therapy in a creative, non-clinical setting. I provide therapy to all ages on a wide range of presenting issues using an integrative approach. I also facilitate groups, and offer mentoring and coping classes for youth. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Existential, and Solution Focused.
(818) 351-1874 View (818) 351-1874
Photo of Adelina Matevosyan, PhD, Psychologist
Adelina Matevosyan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
(818) 287-0300 View (818) 287-0300
Photo of Katie Enney - Thrive Therapy Collective, PsyD, Psychologist
Thrive Therapy Collective
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
autism and ADHD), trauma, health concerns, and identity issues among others.
We all encounter experiences in our lives which will challenge us, and sometimes cause us pain. Sometimes we are challenged by our relationships, previous trauma, bad experiences, depression or anxiety. We can make the choice to work through these events and grow even when things are hard and confusing. Our goal at Thrive Therapy Collective (TTC) is not only to provide a safe place for you to explore your struggles, but also to give you objective feedback and guidance to help you improve your life. Our trained therapists will work with you to create an approach to help you with your unique situation.
autism and ADHD), trauma, health concerns, and identity issues among others.
We all encounter experiences in our lives which will challenge us, and sometimes cause us pain. Sometimes we are challenged by our relationships, previous trauma, bad experiences, depression or anxiety. We can make the choice to work through these events and grow even when things are hard and confusing. Our goal at Thrive Therapy Collective (TTC) is not only to provide a safe place for you to explore your struggles, but also to give you objective feedback and guidance to help you improve your life. Our trained therapists will work with you to create an approach to help you with your unique situation.
(818) 405-9110 View (818) 405-9110
Photo of Sabrina Somani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sabrina Somani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
In addition, I have over 20 years of working with children diagnosed with Autism and am able to provide support to parents and siblings.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
In addition, I have over 20 years of working with children diagnosed with Autism and am able to provide support to parents and siblings.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
(310) 870-3164 View (310) 870-3164
Photo of Chrystal C Maher - Our Kids Developmental Services, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Our Kids Developmental Services
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
(626) 382-7129 View (626) 382-7129
Photo of Andrew Jung, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Jung
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Individuals and families often go through moments where they struggle with issues that may seem too difficult to manage. Many of these moments exist due to an individual lacking skills to succeed or an individual not using the skills they possess in the most efficient way. My goal as a therapist is to work with you in providing you with a safe place to explore your struggles and work with you to develop skills that will allow you to overcome the difficult moments in your life.
Individuals and families often go through moments where they struggle with issues that may seem too difficult to manage. Many of these moments exist due to an individual lacking skills to succeed or an individual not using the skills they possess in the most efficient way. My goal as a therapist is to work with you in providing you with a safe place to explore your struggles and work with you to develop skills that will allow you to overcome the difficult moments in your life.
(818) 351-1633 View (818) 351-1633
Photo of Jacquelyn Larson, AMFT
Jacquelyn Larson
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I tend to lead with creativity, humor, and compassion in all the work I do. I am passionate about walking alongside those on the brave journey of counseling: seeing marriages and families thrive when it doesn’t seem possible, for the individual who feels so different, stuck or out of place, for the artist struggling with the industry pressures, and for the new mother in need of processing your beautiful and difficult role. I provide a space that is authentic and sacred, where growth can truly happen.
I tend to lead with creativity, humor, and compassion in all the work I do. I am passionate about walking alongside those on the brave journey of counseling: seeing marriages and families thrive when it doesn’t seem possible, for the individual who feels so different, stuck or out of place, for the artist struggling with the industry pressures, and for the new mother in need of processing your beautiful and difficult role. I provide a space that is authentic and sacred, where growth can truly happen.
(818) 875-5523 View (818) 875-5523
Photo of Rui Cang 仓蕊, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rui Cang 仓蕊
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Rui is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma, developmental and attachment trauma, dissociative disorders and reactions to other stressful events in teens and adults. Rui is a certified somatic therapist combining Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, as well as Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Rui's approach is holistic (mind-body-spirit), non-violent, mindfulness-based, and attachment-based, as well as based on Interpersonal Neurobiology which is also the foundation of Rui's parenting consultation and coaching practice.
Rui is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma, developmental and attachment trauma, dissociative disorders and reactions to other stressful events in teens and adults. Rui is a certified somatic therapist combining Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, as well as Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Rui's approach is holistic (mind-body-spirit), non-violent, mindfulness-based, and attachment-based, as well as based on Interpersonal Neurobiology which is also the foundation of Rui's parenting consultation and coaching practice.
(310) 736-4836 View (310) 736-4836

See more therapy options for Montrose

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.