Autism Therapists in Palo Alto, CA
Do you or someone you love have difficulty reading social cues, feel anxious about social interactions, and struggle with making friends and setting goals? Do you feel alone and misunderstood? Do you have autism traits that are not always apparent? We offer group therapy and social skills groups, along with individual counseling, for you and your family. By joining one of our groups, you’ll feel understood, accepted and encouraged by the other group members who have shared experiences and challenges. The expert-led group will help you gain the strategies, knowledge, and confidence to more effectively handle these problems.
Do you or someone you love have difficulty reading social cues, feel anxious about social interactions, and struggle with making friends and setting goals? Do you feel alone and misunderstood? Do you have autism traits that are not always apparent? We offer group therapy and social skills groups, along with individual counseling, for you and your family. By joining one of our groups, you’ll feel understood, accepted and encouraged by the other group members who have shared experiences and challenges. The expert-led group will help you gain the strategies, knowledge, and confidence to more effectively handle these problems.
Alexandra Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
As an autism therapist, my therapy modality is eclectic, and I mostly use therapy modalities like IFS (Internal Family Systems), narrative therapy, and strengths-based approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of Illinois who works with neurodiverse teens, college students, young adults, adults, & couples. I specialize in working with clients who identify both as autistic & as a highly sensitive person (HSP). I have experience helping clients with premarital & marital problems (e.g., communication & trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief & loss, various life transitions, & trauma.
As an autism therapist, my therapy modality is eclectic, and I mostly use therapy modalities like IFS (Internal Family Systems), narrative therapy, and strengths-based approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of Illinois who works with neurodiverse teens, college students, young adults, adults, & couples. I specialize in working with clients who identify both as autistic & as a highly sensitive person (HSP). I have experience helping clients with premarital & marital problems (e.g., communication & trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief & loss, various life transitions, & trauma.
Dr. Jessica Foley is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist/diplomat of the American Academy of Neuropsychology, and licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California with approx. 20 years of experience conducting neuropsychological evaluation across the lifespan. She has many years of experience in conducting such evaluations in the context of neurologic (e.g., TBI, epilepsy, brain tumor, MS, movement disorders, neurodegenerative), neurodevelopmental (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability) and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
Dr. Jessica Foley is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist/diplomat of the American Academy of Neuropsychology, and licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California with approx. 20 years of experience conducting neuropsychological evaluation across the lifespan. She has many years of experience in conducting such evaluations in the context of neurologic (e.g., TBI, epilepsy, brain tumor, MS, movement disorders, neurodegenerative), neurodevelopmental (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability) and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, bilingual in Spanish, with over 12 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting issues, work stress and cultural diversity. I have a specialty interest in children on the autism spectrum and children with special needs. I also work with adults individually to address challenges in everyday life and to help clients develop better coping skills.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, bilingual in Spanish, with over 12 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting issues, work stress and cultural diversity. I have a specialty interest in children on the autism spectrum and children with special needs. I also work with adults individually to address challenges in everyday life and to help clients develop better coping skills.
I provide coaching and therapy for autism and Asperger's and have been doing so for 30 years. Most of my clients consider themselves autistic or on the autism spectrum. My clients learn to understand autism on a deeper level. I work with my clients on black-and-white thinking, expressing emotions, the need for masking, and understanding the needs of others. My clients learn to prioritize flexibility from a heartfelt standpoint to achieve a better career, relationship, or social life. I also train parents to teach this process to their children. Parents learn to address difficult behaviors and limitations in communication.
I provide coaching and therapy for autism and Asperger's and have been doing so for 30 years. Most of my clients consider themselves autistic or on the autism spectrum. My clients learn to understand autism on a deeper level. I work with my clients on black-and-white thinking, expressing emotions, the need for masking, and understanding the needs of others. My clients learn to prioritize flexibility from a heartfelt standpoint to achieve a better career, relationship, or social life. I also train parents to teach this process to their children. Parents learn to address difficult behaviors and limitations in communication.
I have a unique ability to connect with student diagnosed with Autism, behavior problems, and mood disorders.
I work with teens, adults, families, and couples at Ellie Mental Health. I am committed to empowering my clients, especially teens facing various challenges, and approach treatment with compassion and understanding. I have worked with individuals diagnosed with Autism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, medication compliance challenges, and chronic medical health conditions. To facilitate a seamless continuum of care, I collaborate closely with external providers and parents when working with minors.
I have a unique ability to connect with student diagnosed with Autism, behavior problems, and mood disorders.
I work with teens, adults, families, and couples at Ellie Mental Health. I am committed to empowering my clients, especially teens facing various challenges, and approach treatment with compassion and understanding. I have worked with individuals diagnosed with Autism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, medication compliance challenges, and chronic medical health conditions. To facilitate a seamless continuum of care, I collaborate closely with external providers and parents when working with minors.
Felicia Huddleston
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301 (Online Only)
A subspecialty of mine is training in autism spectrum disorder (ASD); supporting youth and adults, parents, and siblings in navigating the unique complexities they face with ASD and co-occurring disorders.
I am a clinical social worker in California with a masters degree in social welfare from UC Berkeley with a concentration in advancing health and well-being. My goal is to create a safe and warm environment in which clients are encouraged to allow themselves to receive authentic, collaborative, and compassionate care.
A subspecialty of mine is training in autism spectrum disorder (ASD); supporting youth and adults, parents, and siblings in navigating the unique complexities they face with ASD and co-occurring disorders.
I am a clinical social worker in California with a masters degree in social welfare from UC Berkeley with a concentration in advancing health and well-being. My goal is to create a safe and warm environment in which clients are encouraged to allow themselves to receive authentic, collaborative, and compassionate care.
Kristin Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301 (Online Only)
I specialize in autism, ADHD, gifted and neurodivergent minds, highly sensitive people, trauma and anxiety.
Life can be so hard. Trying to be someone you aren't is exhausting and you wonder who you are anymore. You’re feeling lonely and stressed out to the breaking point. Sleep is difficult if not impossible. Asking for help is hard because you’re so used to fixing everything yourself. I help people heal from the past, recover from burnout, masking, people pleasing, perfectionism, gaslighting and toxic relationships. I help people discover who they truly are, and live an authentic life. I have lived experience being a highly sensitive autistic, neurodivergent individual, and am a parent of autistic, neurodivergent and gifted children.
I specialize in autism, ADHD, gifted and neurodivergent minds, highly sensitive people, trauma and anxiety.
Life can be so hard. Trying to be someone you aren't is exhausting and you wonder who you are anymore. You’re feeling lonely and stressed out to the breaking point. Sleep is difficult if not impossible. Asking for help is hard because you’re so used to fixing everything yourself. I help people heal from the past, recover from burnout, masking, people pleasing, perfectionism, gaslighting and toxic relationships. I help people discover who they truly are, and live an authentic life. I have lived experience being a highly sensitive autistic, neurodivergent individual, and am a parent of autistic, neurodivergent and gifted children.
I am a licensed psychologist trained in the assessment, diagnosis, & treatment of learning, autism spectrum, mood, and ADHD, across the lifespan (3-72 years old)! Myself & my team are excited to offer remote services for assessment, therapy, & interventions. People often seek my services secondary to unanswered questions regarding their struggles at school, home, work, or socially. Some clients have had previous evaluations which have failed to address pressing concerns. I pride myself in getting to the root of the struggles (beyond diagnosis) so that the appropriate recommendations can be made.
I am a licensed psychologist trained in the assessment, diagnosis, & treatment of learning, autism spectrum, mood, and ADHD, across the lifespan (3-72 years old)! Myself & my team are excited to offer remote services for assessment, therapy, & interventions. People often seek my services secondary to unanswered questions regarding their struggles at school, home, work, or socially. Some clients have had previous evaluations which have failed to address pressing concerns. I pride myself in getting to the root of the struggles (beyond diagnosis) so that the appropriate recommendations can be made.
I also have run for the past 20 years a therapeutic program for high functioning preschool, school age and middle school students on the Autism Spectrum and their parents.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent who is aware of the issues that are bothering them and want help. These are clients whose parents are comfortable with them seeing a therapist and are able to speak openly with them about their diagnoses. When I am asked how long I see a client, I do not give a definite time since I have learned that issues are challenged as they make the transition to new schools or jobs. I let parents know that I take a developmental approach to psychopathology. We may stop when symptoms decrease and their coping capacity increases. If they return it is not a sign of failure but different stresses.
I also have run for the past 20 years a therapeutic program for high functioning preschool, school age and middle school students on the Autism Spectrum and their parents.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent who is aware of the issues that are bothering them and want help. These are clients whose parents are comfortable with them seeing a therapist and are able to speak openly with them about their diagnoses. When I am asked how long I see a client, I do not give a definite time since I have learned that issues are challenged as they make the transition to new schools or jobs. I let parents know that I take a developmental approach to psychopathology. We may stop when symptoms decrease and their coping capacity increases. If they return it is not a sign of failure but different stresses.
As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, behavioral specialist and experienced therapist I work with a wide range of issues facing children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in working with parents and children struggling with challenges related to ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Nonverbal Learning Disorders.
As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, behavioral specialist and experienced therapist I work with a wide range of issues facing children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in working with parents and children struggling with challenges related to ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Nonverbal Learning Disorders.
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I have experience in helping those struggling with anxiety, depression, attention challenges, trauma, and persons living with autism.
Do you or someone you know worry way too much, feel tired all the time, or feel overwhelmed? Are you having difficulties with social situations or communication in your relationships? Not getting enough sleep, losing focus, or tend to procrastinate? If so, I can help! For over 15 years I have worked with individuals and families to connect, heal, and thrive. Hi, I'm David Arbulú, your friendly neighborhood therapist.
I have experience in helping those struggling with anxiety, depression, attention challenges, trauma, and persons living with autism.
Do you or someone you know worry way too much, feel tired all the time, or feel overwhelmed? Are you having difficulties with social situations or communication in your relationships? Not getting enough sleep, losing focus, or tend to procrastinate? If so, I can help! For over 15 years I have worked with individuals and families to connect, heal, and thrive. Hi, I'm David Arbulú, your friendly neighborhood therapist.
I am experienced in treating a range of issues: stress, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, grief, relationships, new mom, parenting and child/teen issues.
My role is to guide and help you in developing insight, greater satisfaction, and symptom relief. I provide support by discussing your concerns and feelings, and by helping you resolve and move towards your goals, such as fulfillment, belonging, to cope with hardship or to feel 'unstuck'. I guide you in examining your situation, struggles and relationships, facilitating deeper understanding and strengths to make positive shifts. My style is warm, collaborative and engaging. I compassionately promote therapeutic healing, growth & change. For youth, I practice a combo of play, talk and behavioral therapy, parent coaching/support.
I am experienced in treating a range of issues: stress, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, grief, relationships, new mom, parenting and child/teen issues.
My role is to guide and help you in developing insight, greater satisfaction, and symptom relief. I provide support by discussing your concerns and feelings, and by helping you resolve and move towards your goals, such as fulfillment, belonging, to cope with hardship or to feel 'unstuck'. I guide you in examining your situation, struggles and relationships, facilitating deeper understanding and strengths to make positive shifts. My style is warm, collaborative and engaging. I compassionately promote therapeutic healing, growth & change. For youth, I practice a combo of play, talk and behavioral therapy, parent coaching/support.
Ryann DeSouza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
I welcome referrals for ADHD, learning disabilities, work or school accommodations, IQ testing, autism spectrum disorders, psychological concerns, treatment-resistant conditions, giftedness, personality testing, cognitive decline, and others.
I am a licensed psychologist with vast experience in diagnostic evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Stanford Department of Psychiatry where I train and supervise Forensic Psychiatry Fellows. In my practice, I offer a variety of evaluation options to help you understand your, or your loved ones', strengths and challenges as well as their root cause. The purpose of these evaluations is two-fold: to present a "full picture" understanding of a person, and to provide individualized strength-based recommendations.
I welcome referrals for ADHD, learning disabilities, work or school accommodations, IQ testing, autism spectrum disorders, psychological concerns, treatment-resistant conditions, giftedness, personality testing, cognitive decline, and others.
I am a licensed psychologist with vast experience in diagnostic evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Stanford Department of Psychiatry where I train and supervise Forensic Psychiatry Fellows. In my practice, I offer a variety of evaluation options to help you understand your, or your loved ones', strengths and challenges as well as their root cause. The purpose of these evaluations is two-fold: to present a "full picture" understanding of a person, and to provide individualized strength-based recommendations.
Tink Tank Animate -Autism Art and Animation Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Tink Tank Animate is a autism center that exists to support neurodiverse artists, from beginners to advanced, as they exercise and develop their cognitive skills through story creation, as well as guide them through the creative and production process to complete a project(s) of their own. We want artists to have fun and feel empowered to explore and express themselves. Artists/writers will do better in a safe environment that encourages creativity and imaginative play and has supportive instructors that can recognize their talents and strengths. We do NOT offer ABA Applied Behavioral Analysis Services.
Tink Tank Animate is a autism center that exists to support neurodiverse artists, from beginners to advanced, as they exercise and develop their cognitive skills through story creation, as well as guide them through the creative and production process to complete a project(s) of their own. We want artists to have fun and feel empowered to explore and express themselves. Artists/writers will do better in a safe environment that encourages creativity and imaginative play and has supportive instructors that can recognize their talents and strengths. We do NOT offer ABA Applied Behavioral Analysis Services.
Open Doors Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
Do you want to explore your neurodivergent identity or suspect you are autistic? Did you experience times in your life where you felt invalidated for who you are or misunderstood? Do you sometimes feel unable to connect with others? Do you experience difficulties navigating life? I specialize in working with clients who have experienced painful messages about themselves and trauma, and are working towards finding balance in their lives. I enjoy working with the LGBTQI+ community and neurodivergent community to help boost self-esteem, build relationships and increase self-advocacy. I offer individual and group therapy online.
Do you want to explore your neurodivergent identity or suspect you are autistic? Did you experience times in your life where you felt invalidated for who you are or misunderstood? Do you sometimes feel unable to connect with others? Do you experience difficulties navigating life? I specialize in working with clients who have experienced painful messages about themselves and trauma, and are working towards finding balance in their lives. I enjoy working with the LGBTQI+ community and neurodivergent community to help boost self-esteem, build relationships and increase self-advocacy. I offer individual and group therapy online.
**Dr. Chambers is not a therapist and he does not do therapy or any form of treatment. My Philosophy is that you need to diagnose the problem accurately before you can fix the problem! Neuropsychological Evaluations, ADHD Testing, Learning Disability Evaluations, Mental Health Diagnostic Testing, Expert Testimony, Civil Litigation, Court Related Testing, 504 Plans, IEP's, IDEA Accommodations, MCAT Accommodations, Workplace Accommodations, Capacity Evaluations, Wills & Trusts, and much more! Dr. Chambers is a neuropsychologist that offers a wide range of testing and evaluative services for forensic [legal matters] and non-forensic matters. We do not accept insurance.
**Dr. Chambers is not a therapist and he does not do therapy or any form of treatment. My Philosophy is that you need to diagnose the problem accurately before you can fix the problem! Neuropsychological Evaluations, ADHD Testing, Learning Disability Evaluations, Mental Health Diagnostic Testing, Expert Testimony, Civil Litigation, Court Related Testing, 504 Plans, IEP's, IDEA Accommodations, MCAT Accommodations, Workplace Accommodations, Capacity Evaluations, Wills & Trusts, and much more! Dr. Chambers is a neuropsychologist that offers a wide range of testing and evaluative services for forensic [legal matters] and non-forensic matters. We do not accept insurance.
I am passionate about helping families find balance and maintain connection despite the constant demands and pressures of modern life in the Bay Area. I have been providing therapeutic services to children, teens, adults, and families since 2009. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 98916) and specialize in providing therapeutic services to children and families affected by neurodevelopmental disorders. I also provide individual and family counseling to those experiencing a range of clinical and non-clinical issues.
I am passionate about helping families find balance and maintain connection despite the constant demands and pressures of modern life in the Bay Area. I have been providing therapeutic services to children, teens, adults, and families since 2009. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 98916) and specialize in providing therapeutic services to children and families affected by neurodevelopmental disorders. I also provide individual and family counseling to those experiencing a range of clinical and non-clinical issues.
Jared K Leaderman
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LMHC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301 (Online Only)
I provide virtual therapy for individual adults in California and Massachusetts. Creating positive change in the face of turbulence in life can often be overwhelming. As a licensed counselor and music therapist with 14 years of experience, I specialize in partnering with adults to discover an empowered response to complex challenges. Through compassionate and skilled care, I support clients in cultivating the wisdom, presence, and skills to live a meaningful and engaged life.
I provide virtual therapy for individual adults in California and Massachusetts. Creating positive change in the face of turbulence in life can often be overwhelming. As a licensed counselor and music therapist with 14 years of experience, I specialize in partnering with adults to discover an empowered response to complex challenges. Through compassionate and skilled care, I support clients in cultivating the wisdom, presence, and skills to live a meaningful and engaged life.
See more therapy options for Palo Alto
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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.