Autism Therapists in Palm Desert, CA
![Photo of Dr. Abigail Go, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c27655a9-ea74-4380-9f2e-f2d2260815ff/5/320x400.jpeg)
Many professionals do not work with teens and autism and I am able to fill in the gaps where others fall short.
Struggling with your child's special needs? Feeling overwhelmed as a parent? I'm here to help. I specialize in supporting children with special needs and their families, providing tools to navigate challenges and build stronger relationships. Dealing with anxiety, depression, or life transitions? I work with clients of all ages, offering personalized strategies to manage emotions, improve communication, and achieve your goals. Whether you're seeking support for your child, yourself, or your family, I meet you where you are. Together, we'll develop practical skills to overcome obstacles, boost confidence, and reach your potential.
Many professionals do not work with teens and autism and I am able to fill in the gaps where others fall short.
Struggling with your child's special needs? Feeling overwhelmed as a parent? I'm here to help. I specialize in supporting children with special needs and their families, providing tools to navigate challenges and build stronger relationships. Dealing with anxiety, depression, or life transitions? I work with clients of all ages, offering personalized strategies to manage emotions, improve communication, and achieve your goals. Whether you're seeking support for your child, yourself, or your family, I meet you where you are. Together, we'll develop practical skills to overcome obstacles, boost confidence, and reach your potential.
![Photo of Joanna Savarese, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c815f1f2-1f58-47c0-8d39-8312327ba9de/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joanna Savarese is a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of San Diego BrainWorks. Dr. Savarese and her team have specific and extensive training in neuropsychological, psychoeducational, and psychological assessment. San Diego BrainWorks specializes in comprehensive evaluations, IEE (Independent Educational Evaluations) and differential diagnosis of specific learning disorders, ADHD, Autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health disorders, and genetic and medical disorders. Dr. Savarese conducts evaluations to aid in diagnostic specificity, treatment recommendations, and academic accommodations.
Dr. Joanna Savarese is a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of San Diego BrainWorks. Dr. Savarese and her team have specific and extensive training in neuropsychological, psychoeducational, and psychological assessment. San Diego BrainWorks specializes in comprehensive evaluations, IEE (Independent Educational Evaluations) and differential diagnosis of specific learning disorders, ADHD, Autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health disorders, and genetic and medical disorders. Dr. Savarese conducts evaluations to aid in diagnostic specificity, treatment recommendations, and academic accommodations.
![Photo of Patricia Gonzalez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c629bae-6e32-4566-a0f6-b6c75b5800e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with people on the Autism Spectrum, foster children, and families.
Hey! My name is Patricia Gonzalez, please call me Patty, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I am a client-centered therapist, who integrates different modalities to cater to my client’s needs. I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Behavior Activation and Modification, and Solution Focused. When working with an individual I will collaborate with my client every step of the way as a team to find what works best and I am open to feedback.
I have worked with people on the Autism Spectrum, foster children, and families.
Hey! My name is Patricia Gonzalez, please call me Patty, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I am a client-centered therapist, who integrates different modalities to cater to my client’s needs. I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Behavior Activation and Modification, and Solution Focused. When working with an individual I will collaborate with my client every step of the way as a team to find what works best and I am open to feedback.
![Photo of April Hanig - New Leaf Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93aac055-eed4-46f2-9bb8-e1fd69ddd3b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Or perhaps you've noticed your child or teen seems anxious, stressed, sad, or frustrated? Concerned that you or your child's behaviors or life events are interfering with relationships, academics, or self-esteem? Our team of therapists specialize in working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families; we know just how hard it can be to navigate the many stages of development while dealing with the demands of everyday life. But we also know that anxiety and stress don't have to rule your life! We're here to help you experience a life worth living.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Or perhaps you've noticed your child or teen seems anxious, stressed, sad, or frustrated? Concerned that you or your child's behaviors or life events are interfering with relationships, academics, or self-esteem? Our team of therapists specialize in working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families; we know just how hard it can be to navigate the many stages of development while dealing with the demands of everyday life. But we also know that anxiety and stress don't have to rule your life! We're here to help you experience a life worth living.
![Photo of Brent Michael Cooper, LEP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5374e1bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Educational Psychologist, and owner of El Paseo Testing Center, I work with children, teens, and adults and specialize in conducting psychological-educational evaluations. Benefits include implementation of 504 Plans (Public/Private Schools), IEP's, University testing accommodations, College Board entrance exams and most importantly understanding one's Learning Profile to be a successful independent learner. I'm an advocate for early intervention, calling it the key to success for an individual living with a learning or behavioral difference. We have a Comprehensive team of licensed Independent Educational Evaluators that conduct second opinion assessments for School Districts.
As a Licensed Educational Psychologist, and owner of El Paseo Testing Center, I work with children, teens, and adults and specialize in conducting psychological-educational evaluations. Benefits include implementation of 504 Plans (Public/Private Schools), IEP's, University testing accommodations, College Board entrance exams and most importantly understanding one's Learning Profile to be a successful independent learner. I'm an advocate for early intervention, calling it the key to success for an individual living with a learning or behavioral difference. We have a Comprehensive team of licensed Independent Educational Evaluators that conduct second opinion assessments for School Districts.
![Photo of Krystina Maniu, MSCMHC, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30234677-d51b-462d-bebc-5476c71498c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krystina Maniu
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCMHC, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Throughout life, we struggle and persevere through the ups and downs. The struggles may not always feel manageable and having a supportive individual may be needed to reflect and explore our needs. Throughout the therapeutic process, I strive to meet ever-changing needs with a supportive and directive plan to continue to growth. Even though setbacks will occur it does not change the fact that we can always learn and grow from different situations and challenges.
Throughout life, we struggle and persevere through the ups and downs. The struggles may not always feel manageable and having a supportive individual may be needed to reflect and explore our needs. Throughout the therapeutic process, I strive to meet ever-changing needs with a supportive and directive plan to continue to growth. Even though setbacks will occur it does not change the fact that we can always learn and grow from different situations and challenges.
![Photo of Kiavash Ebadat - Resilience Coaching and Counseling, LMFT, LCSW, ASW, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d42c2a49-cf98-4077-9d67-ecfeeaef1644/1/320x400.png)
Resilience Coaching and Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Have you been feeling stuck or limited? Do you believe that you will never feel loved or appreciated? Do you feel that no matter what you do the outcomes are always the same? Or no matter how hard you try you will never be good enough and fail? Well it is not a coincidence. We create negative beliefs and meanings (from our childhood) about ourselves to create these issues. Have you ever said to yourself over and over again "I'll never find love?" or "I'll probably fail" Well, they are not true, but you made it your reality through habitual ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
Have you been feeling stuck or limited? Do you believe that you will never feel loved or appreciated? Do you feel that no matter what you do the outcomes are always the same? Or no matter how hard you try you will never be good enough and fail? Well it is not a coincidence. We create negative beliefs and meanings (from our childhood) about ourselves to create these issues. Have you ever said to yourself over and over again "I'll never find love?" or "I'll probably fail" Well, they are not true, but you made it your reality through habitual ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
![Photo of Teresa Adams-Ridila - I Can Learn, MA, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c548663-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You can learn to take control of yourself, your family, and your life! Positive communication and interpersonal interactions can be yours! Having worked with children, teens, and families for over 30 years as a teacher, school counselor, or therapist, I am familiar with the challenges, frustrations, and unique demands of trying to managing school, work, and family life. I am absolutely passionate about providing a safe and comfortable place to help you achieve your goals.
You can learn to take control of yourself, your family, and your life! Positive communication and interpersonal interactions can be yours! Having worked with children, teens, and families for over 30 years as a teacher, school counselor, or therapist, I am familiar with the challenges, frustrations, and unique demands of trying to managing school, work, and family life. I am absolutely passionate about providing a safe and comfortable place to help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Jessica Lucett, ABA, MS, PsyD, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5cf693c-9fc7-4759-a297-731bb0a56d5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Lucett
Psychological Associate, ABA, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
NOW Accepting IN-Person/Virtual Appointments. The decision to enter into therapy is very personal. My goal is to help you resolve obstacles in your life that are creating additional pain. I work with adults and adolescents in an individual and group counseling setting. This allows me to provide guidance for clients to resolve pain from difficult events and will come out with stronger coping strategies and self-care. We can't change our past experiences or current diagnostics, but we can work together to better understand and work with the challenges in your life.
NOW Accepting IN-Person/Virtual Appointments. The decision to enter into therapy is very personal. My goal is to help you resolve obstacles in your life that are creating additional pain. I work with adults and adolescents in an individual and group counseling setting. This allows me to provide guidance for clients to resolve pain from difficult events and will come out with stronger coping strategies and self-care. We can't change our past experiences or current diagnostics, but we can work together to better understand and work with the challenges in your life.
![Photo of Jennifer Mcvey, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08ec3e24-1225-4735-9902-e2a87e894e72/1/320x400.jpeg)
Change your mind and you change your life. You are important, powerful and valuable. You create your life. Hypnosis accesses the part of your mind that controls your emotions, behaviors and body. You are truly the master of your life. By working with the part of mind that brings your manifestations into fruition [it] makes everything in your world flow smoother, easier and simpler than you have ever imagined. Your mind is amazing; Isn't it time you utilized all aspects of it?
Change your mind and you change your life. You are important, powerful and valuable. You create your life. Hypnosis accesses the part of your mind that controls your emotions, behaviors and body. You are truly the master of your life. By working with the part of mind that brings your manifestations into fruition [it] makes everything in your world flow smoother, easier and simpler than you have ever imagined. Your mind is amazing; Isn't it time you utilized all aspects of it?
![Photo of Patricia D Craine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9463f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
WELCOME! . FOR THE PAST 36 YEARS, I HAVE HELPED MANY PEOPLE AND I AM HERE TO HELP YOU. AT TIMES IN OUR LIVES, WE ALL NEED SOMEONE WE CAN TRUST , SOMEONE NEUTRAL, TO GUIDE US THROUGH SOME CHALLENGES AND ISSUES THAT WE ARE FACING. MY PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY HAS WELL PREPARED ME TO WORK WITH THE MANY SITUATIONS THAT I SEE DAILY. WITH A "POSITIVE PROBLEM SOLVING" APPROACH, I BELIEVE WE LEARN AND GROW THROUGH OUR CHALENGES. IF YOU ARE READY TO TAKE THAT FIRST STEP , I AM HERE FOR YOU. PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE: WWW.PATRICIACRAINE.COM.
WELCOME! . FOR THE PAST 36 YEARS, I HAVE HELPED MANY PEOPLE AND I AM HERE TO HELP YOU. AT TIMES IN OUR LIVES, WE ALL NEED SOMEONE WE CAN TRUST , SOMEONE NEUTRAL, TO GUIDE US THROUGH SOME CHALLENGES AND ISSUES THAT WE ARE FACING. MY PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY HAS WELL PREPARED ME TO WORK WITH THE MANY SITUATIONS THAT I SEE DAILY. WITH A "POSITIVE PROBLEM SOLVING" APPROACH, I BELIEVE WE LEARN AND GROW THROUGH OUR CHALENGES. IF YOU ARE READY TO TAKE THAT FIRST STEP , I AM HERE FOR YOU. PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE: WWW.PATRICIACRAINE.COM.
![Photo of Katherine Deal (Reis), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4207839-4bf9-4878-a424-75283e063cb4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Deal (Reis)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Whether you're struggling with consequences stemming from past trauma, chronic mental illness, grief/loss, hopelessness, anger, resentment or profound life changes; healing is possible. Therapy is the process of building insight and awareness into behaviors and thoughts that ultimately perpetuate the hurt and pain. My goal is to assist in you finding the best way to break this pattern, change old and ineffective ways of coping and building a better understanding of why we do what we do. We often are trying to make right or whole, something that was so broken, destroyed or distorted from our past.
Whether you're struggling with consequences stemming from past trauma, chronic mental illness, grief/loss, hopelessness, anger, resentment or profound life changes; healing is possible. Therapy is the process of building insight and awareness into behaviors and thoughts that ultimately perpetuate the hurt and pain. My goal is to assist in you finding the best way to break this pattern, change old and ineffective ways of coping and building a better understanding of why we do what we do. We often are trying to make right or whole, something that was so broken, destroyed or distorted from our past.
![Photo of Keith Daniel Nesbitt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a91d4da-7352-4c9f-aa3f-72b916d1c543/5/320x400.jpeg)
I have eighteen years of clinical expertise in the field of psychology. I have been a crisis clinician much of that time helping ease the pain in the most acute psychiatric situations. This also includes being a program director in a psychiatric facility. I am a loyal and supportive advocate in your journey to living a better life. We will work together to have a more fulfilling life and accomplishing the goals and positive future that you deserve.
I have eighteen years of clinical expertise in the field of psychology. I have been a crisis clinician much of that time helping ease the pain in the most acute psychiatric situations. This also includes being a program director in a psychiatric facility. I am a loyal and supportive advocate in your journey to living a better life. We will work together to have a more fulfilling life and accomplishing the goals and positive future that you deserve.
![Photo of Elizabeth J. Vanegas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d465a52-8e81-4e6d-a4af-f0a7ab335495/4/320x400.jpeg)
The journey of healing is a process where the client deserves to feel cared for in a safe environment. I have worked with a range of ages from children, teens to older adults. My experience has been with clients working through chronic symptoms of depression, self-harm, and psychiatric hospitalizations. I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking safety, motivational interviewing, and provide other therapy modalities. I feel privileged to work with my clients in helping them heal from their trauma and other challenges they might be experiencing.
The journey of healing is a process where the client deserves to feel cared for in a safe environment. I have worked with a range of ages from children, teens to older adults. My experience has been with clients working through chronic symptoms of depression, self-harm, and psychiatric hospitalizations. I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking safety, motivational interviewing, and provide other therapy modalities. I feel privileged to work with my clients in helping them heal from their trauma and other challenges they might be experiencing.
![Photo of Alex Avila, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e215ce6-dc0d-4d26-8dfb-31f33458a7a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Living with anxiety, fear, worry, and depression can feel very discouraging, sometimes hopeless, and these feelings can grow to be so BIG that they inevitably impact our relationships, work, dreams and goals. If you're reading this today, you might be feeling sick and tired of being sick and tired; you might feel desperate, you may have hit rock bottom or perhaps you're just hoping, praying, to find relief and a chance at something better.
Living with anxiety, fear, worry, and depression can feel very discouraging, sometimes hopeless, and these feelings can grow to be so BIG that they inevitably impact our relationships, work, dreams and goals. If you're reading this today, you might be feeling sick and tired of being sick and tired; you might feel desperate, you may have hit rock bottom or perhaps you're just hoping, praying, to find relief and a chance at something better.
![Photo of Seham Saba, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2d58e31-04d5-4f63-9c07-5a0641965610/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seham Saba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Not accepting new clients
My mission is to assist others in overcoming life challenges and obstacles through mindfulness, relationship building, empowerment, awareness, stress management and much more. If you, your family, or anyone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, coping with stressful situations or other mental health related issues, I can help!
My mission is to assist others in overcoming life challenges and obstacles through mindfulness, relationship building, empowerment, awareness, stress management and much more. If you, your family, or anyone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, coping with stressful situations or other mental health related issues, I can help!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Mabel R. Ribas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80d1a840-401c-4015-b51d-957c5b80320f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mabel R. Ribas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253 (Online Only)
It is my honor to work with clients that are experiencing difficult life experiences. I provide counseling to children, adults and families. My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship problems. I also specialize working with children and families that are affected by learning disorders (IEPS), behavior challenges, ADHD, Autism, Emotional Disturbance and other school related difficulties. My approach is to prioritize my clients' needs and assist them in identifying their strengths, power, purpose and resilience in order to overcome their stressors.
It is my honor to work with clients that are experiencing difficult life experiences. I provide counseling to children, adults and families. My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship problems. I also specialize working with children and families that are affected by learning disorders (IEPS), behavior challenges, ADHD, Autism, Emotional Disturbance and other school related difficulties. My approach is to prioritize my clients' needs and assist them in identifying their strengths, power, purpose and resilience in order to overcome their stressors.
![Photo of Alan Richardson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e19a76f7-5d43-4307-8ce1-149198a44e7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alan Richardson-LCSW I am primarily interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals who are struggling with issues of anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with older adults and issues of aging. I also have experience with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and challenges faced by families of persons on the Autism Spectrum. I am primarily interested in working with adults. I am interested in assisting clients to address issues of anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
Alan Richardson-LCSW I am primarily interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals who are struggling with issues of anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with older adults and issues of aging. I also have experience with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and challenges faced by families of persons on the Autism Spectrum. I am primarily interested in working with adults. I am interested in assisting clients to address issues of anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
![Photo of Amy Murphy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/181d8dac-11a9-4f61-a578-460864ad3e1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced in working with eating disorders, addiction, mood disorders, trauma, and developmental disabilities. I take a holistic and client-led approach to therapy sessions focusing on increasing self-sufficiency, coping skills, and personal insight into unhelpful patterns.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced in working with eating disorders, addiction, mood disorders, trauma, and developmental disabilities. I take a holistic and client-led approach to therapy sessions focusing on increasing self-sufficiency, coping skills, and personal insight into unhelpful patterns.
![Photo of Denise Chmiel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55eb7359-eaa8-4ad6-96c9-572b4825c9b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Denise Chmiel. I am a Marriage & Family Therapist in the State of California. My work with clients is client-centered, solution-focused, and trauma-informed. I approach my clients respectfully, warmly, and with a sincere desire to assist them with gaining insight, achieving their therapeutic goals, and feeling better. I am comfortable working with adults, older adults, and adolescents who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, sadness, and loneliness or who are stuck in situations that feel hopeless.
Hello, my name is Denise Chmiel. I am a Marriage & Family Therapist in the State of California. My work with clients is client-centered, solution-focused, and trauma-informed. I approach my clients respectfully, warmly, and with a sincere desire to assist them with gaining insight, achieving their therapeutic goals, and feeling better. I am comfortable working with adults, older adults, and adolescents who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, sadness, and loneliness or who are stuck in situations that feel hopeless.
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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.