Autism Therapists in Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA
Individualized social skills training is also available for youth with high functioning autism and related conditions through one of our PEERS certified social coaches.
Is your child having unexpected difficulties learning new skills? Are concentration problems preventing them from getting the most out of their education? Neuropsychological testing, diagnosis, and treatment planning can provide the answers you need to help your child thrive. Rule out childhood disorders, including learning disabilities and ADHD. Identify your child's cognitive strengths and weaknesses using evidence-based practices. Document the need for accommodations on high-stake exams and in the classroom. Together we will create an individualized roadmap to help your child achieve success and well-being.
Individualized social skills training is also available for youth with high functioning autism and related conditions through one of our PEERS certified social coaches.
Is your child having unexpected difficulties learning new skills? Are concentration problems preventing them from getting the most out of their education? Neuropsychological testing, diagnosis, and treatment planning can provide the answers you need to help your child thrive. Rule out childhood disorders, including learning disabilities and ADHD. Identify your child's cognitive strengths and weaknesses using evidence-based practices. Document the need for accommodations on high-stake exams and in the classroom. Together we will create an individualized roadmap to help your child achieve success and well-being.
T.j. Vanmarter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BCBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
I have over 13 years of experience in treating individuals with a variety of mood disorders, neurodivergency (ADHD, Autism, etc), academic and behavioral disorders, and managing life transitions (work, school, relationships, grief, etc).
You've probably found this page because you feel "stuck" in life. Maybe you're a parent who is challenged by their child's unique behavioral, emotional or academic needs and want help navigating them. Perhaps you're entering a life transition, such as entering or exiting a romantic relationship, going to college, or getting a new job and want emotional support and validation. My goal is to help individuals, families and couples find insight into their challenges, cope through distressful situations, and, in effect, become their own therapist.
I have over 13 years of experience in treating individuals with a variety of mood disorders, neurodivergency (ADHD, Autism, etc), academic and behavioral disorders, and managing life transitions (work, school, relationships, grief, etc).
You've probably found this page because you feel "stuck" in life. Maybe you're a parent who is challenged by their child's unique behavioral, emotional or academic needs and want help navigating them. Perhaps you're entering a life transition, such as entering or exiting a romantic relationship, going to college, or getting a new job and want emotional support and validation. My goal is to help individuals, families and couples find insight into their challenges, cope through distressful situations, and, in effect, become their own therapist.
Victor A Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Clients who benefit from my help appreciate a therapist who is warm, nurturing and supportive in his approach and at the same time confronts the difficult issues that bring people to seek my assistance. I am an experienced clinician, and I draw upon a variety of techniques ranging from talk therapy to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. My clients feel I help them with life issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Clients who benefit from my help appreciate a therapist who is warm, nurturing and supportive in his approach and at the same time confronts the difficult issues that bring people to seek my assistance. I am an experienced clinician, and I draw upon a variety of techniques ranging from talk therapy to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. My clients feel I help them with life issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hayley N Casselman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
I specialize in helping children, teens, and parents work through life's challenges to come out on the other side happier, healthier, and more successful in school and relationships. Common concerns include: ADHD, depression, anxiety/stress and fears (including OCD), difficulty with divorce, academic challenges, and peer problems. Please see my website www.hayleycasselman.com for more detailed information.
I specialize in helping children, teens, and parents work through life's challenges to come out on the other side happier, healthier, and more successful in school and relationships. Common concerns include: ADHD, depression, anxiety/stress and fears (including OCD), difficulty with divorce, academic challenges, and peer problems. Please see my website www.hayleycasselman.com for more detailed information.
Psychological Assessment Services
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
With over 20 years of experience in providing comprehensive psychological assessments, Psychological Assessment Services specializes in assessing (ADHD) attention and concentration difficulties, cognitive functioning and identifying Dyslexia or other learning disabilities that may result in behavioral learning or social issues. We also perform pre-adoption evaluations, competency evaluations and pre-surgical evaluations. Psychodiagnostic testing can distinguish the psychological contributions to behavior that may confound accurate diagnosis and treatment. I can provide expert court testimony and workers comp evaluations.
With over 20 years of experience in providing comprehensive psychological assessments, Psychological Assessment Services specializes in assessing (ADHD) attention and concentration difficulties, cognitive functioning and identifying Dyslexia or other learning disabilities that may result in behavioral learning or social issues. We also perform pre-adoption evaluations, competency evaluations and pre-surgical evaluations. Psychodiagnostic testing can distinguish the psychological contributions to behavior that may confound accurate diagnosis and treatment. I can provide expert court testimony and workers comp evaluations.
Susan Davies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
I offer a warm, caring and understanding environment so that insight, self-esteem and personal growth can develop. We work together so that you can become your BEST self. To quote Socrates: "the unexamined life is not worth living". A glimpse into our past, helps us understand the present and creates the foundation for a better future. Accessing and understanding our feelings starts the process of knowing ourselves and others, allowing us to take personal responsibility and making healthier choices, that ultimately leads to positive, life-long changes.
I offer a warm, caring and understanding environment so that insight, self-esteem and personal growth can develop. We work together so that you can become your BEST self. To quote Socrates: "the unexamined life is not worth living". A glimpse into our past, helps us understand the present and creates the foundation for a better future. Accessing and understanding our feelings starts the process of knowing ourselves and others, allowing us to take personal responsibility and making healthier choices, that ultimately leads to positive, life-long changes.
As a psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I seek to provide a nonjudgmental and nurturing environment in which you can explore your current struggles. I believe that the therapist client relationship is critical to help you effect the positive change you are looking for. Together we can explore the patterns in your life that are preventing you from living the life you want and we can work to set realistic goals. Although I am trained using a psychodynamic approach, I also utilize DBT and mindfulness to help clients cope with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other mental health concerns.
As a psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I seek to provide a nonjudgmental and nurturing environment in which you can explore your current struggles. I believe that the therapist client relationship is critical to help you effect the positive change you are looking for. Together we can explore the patterns in your life that are preventing you from living the life you want and we can work to set realistic goals. Although I am trained using a psychodynamic approach, I also utilize DBT and mindfulness to help clients cope with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other mental health concerns.
Stacey Kalinowski
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
My name is Stacey Kalinowski, and I have a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about supporting individuals by building a healthy relationships with self and creating supportive interpersonal relationships. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that supports clients in increasing self-awareness, gaining a new perspective, and increasing personal strength to establish a meaningful life experience.
My name is Stacey Kalinowski, and I have a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about supporting individuals by building a healthy relationships with self and creating supportive interpersonal relationships. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that supports clients in increasing self-awareness, gaining a new perspective, and increasing personal strength to establish a meaningful life experience.
Christine Chae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Want to use your insurance for therapy but can't find an in-network therapist who is accepting new clients? Welcome to Abundance Therapy Center where you can get high-quality therapy using your insurance for therapy sessions! We accept most major insurances and will help you verify coverage and navigate the insurance maze. We believe in making high-quality therapy accessible and affordable to our community. We care about your healing journey. ***PLEASE VISIT "ABUNDANCETHERAPYCENTER.COM" TO SUBMIT AN INTAKE REQUEST.***
Want to use your insurance for therapy but can't find an in-network therapist who is accepting new clients? Welcome to Abundance Therapy Center where you can get high-quality therapy using your insurance for therapy sessions! We accept most major insurances and will help you verify coverage and navigate the insurance maze. We believe in making high-quality therapy accessible and affordable to our community. We care about your healing journey. ***PLEASE VISIT "ABUNDANCETHERAPYCENTER.COM" TO SUBMIT AN INTAKE REQUEST.***
As a psychologist, I allow the space for individuals to gain insight and growth in their lives that help them reach their goals and aspirations. We all encounter challenges, whether it be someone suffering from anxiety and depression, a family who just found out their child has a medical issue, a child with fears, or a teen who has been bullied. During these unfortunate times what is needed is someone to connect with and help you out of this dark cave of distress. One of my greatest strengths has been the ability to connect with others and reveal the ways through this emotional distress.
As a psychologist, I allow the space for individuals to gain insight and growth in their lives that help them reach their goals and aspirations. We all encounter challenges, whether it be someone suffering from anxiety and depression, a family who just found out their child has a medical issue, a child with fears, or a teen who has been bullied. During these unfortunate times what is needed is someone to connect with and help you out of this dark cave of distress. One of my greatest strengths has been the ability to connect with others and reveal the ways through this emotional distress.
More Therapists Nearby
Stefanie Rushatakankovit
Licensed Educational Psychologist, LEP, NCSP, BCBA
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My comprehensive assessments in ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, giftedness, & behavior help you learn about your child's needs and give a roadmap on what to do next.
If your child or teen is having trouble with learning, big emotions, making or keeping friends, or behavior, I'll help them understand their own brains & bodies, and build the skills they need for emotional growth, independence, and healthy relationships. If you have tried reading books, listening to podcasts, watching videos, and are STILL feeling frustrated or helpless, I will work with you to help discover why your child is struggling, collaborate on a plan, and guide and support you to make positive, concrete changes.
My comprehensive assessments in ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, giftedness, & behavior help you learn about your child's needs and give a roadmap on what to do next.
If your child or teen is having trouble with learning, big emotions, making or keeping friends, or behavior, I'll help them understand their own brains & bodies, and build the skills they need for emotional growth, independence, and healthy relationships. If you have tried reading books, listening to podcasts, watching videos, and are STILL feeling frustrated or helpless, I will work with you to help discover why your child is struggling, collaborate on a plan, and guide and support you to make positive, concrete changes.
Monica Bezzi Demas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, RAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I am skilled with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, disruptive behaviors, ADHD, parent-child relationship and high functioning autism.
I have a passion for what I do and I believe that all human beings share similar traits that allow us to understand and empathize with one another. I see my role as a facilitator in this process and believe that everyone has the strength and ability within themselves to grow, change, and heal. I walk my clients through the path of transformation, explore patterns of thoughts and behaviors, and provide them with new tools necessary to take control of their lives.
I am skilled with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, disruptive behaviors, ADHD, parent-child relationship and high functioning autism.
I have a passion for what I do and I believe that all human beings share similar traits that allow us to understand and empathize with one another. I see my role as a facilitator in this process and believe that everyone has the strength and ability within themselves to grow, change, and heal. I walk my clients through the path of transformation, explore patterns of thoughts and behaviors, and provide them with new tools necessary to take control of their lives.
My expertise is in autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and specific learning disabilities.
An accurate assessment of a child's learning profile, processing style and diagnostic status facilitates access to appropriate services within school systems. It provides parents and teachers with strategies that match the child's strengths to ensure a positive learning environment. Success breeds success. As your child discovers they can learn, they will become engaged with the process and ready to tackle educational challenges. Once identified, learning disabilities (dyslexia), autism, and ADHD can be approached with research based techniques that enable children to function with their peers in typical learning environments.
My expertise is in autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and specific learning disabilities.
An accurate assessment of a child's learning profile, processing style and diagnostic status facilitates access to appropriate services within school systems. It provides parents and teachers with strategies that match the child's strengths to ensure a positive learning environment. Success breeds success. As your child discovers they can learn, they will become engaged with the process and ready to tackle educational challenges. Once identified, learning disabilities (dyslexia), autism, and ADHD can be approached with research based techniques that enable children to function with their peers in typical learning environments.
I conduct Autism and ADHD assessments and am ND-affirming as well as knowledgeable in PDA.
My approach to therapy is to make clients feel safe and understood while challenging thoughts or habits that might be unhelpful. Although I tailor my treatment to meet the goals and needs of my clients, I implement a mix of evidence-based techniques. These include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and interpersonal process therapies. Using these techniques assists in learning more about yourself and identifying the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I can also teach useful skills to help improve coping and manage challenging situations. I welcome people of all races, sexual orientations, and gender.
I conduct Autism and ADHD assessments and am ND-affirming as well as knowledgeable in PDA.
My approach to therapy is to make clients feel safe and understood while challenging thoughts or habits that might be unhelpful. Although I tailor my treatment to meet the goals and needs of my clients, I implement a mix of evidence-based techniques. These include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and interpersonal process therapies. Using these techniques assists in learning more about yourself and identifying the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I can also teach useful skills to help improve coping and manage challenging situations. I welcome people of all races, sexual orientations, and gender.
I treat people with autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, attention difficulties, learning differences, behavioral issues, depression, and anxiety.
I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing a wide variety of presenting problems. My approach to therapy is supportive, genuine, and collaborative, which allows children and adolescents to reach their fullest potential. I have worked with children and teens for over ten years across a number of settings, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice.
I treat people with autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, attention difficulties, learning differences, behavioral issues, depression, and anxiety.
I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing a wide variety of presenting problems. My approach to therapy is supportive, genuine, and collaborative, which allows children and adolescents to reach their fullest potential. I have worked with children and teens for over ten years across a number of settings, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice.
For persons of all ages, attempting to manage ADHD, giftedness, autism or dementia, identifying a particular diagnosis can be a frustrating journey.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with a variety of issues at all stages of development. Stress, anxiety, depression, and grief can be difficult to manage for anyone, and can be exacerbated by life circumstances. Relationship issues and family stressors can also be precipitants for increased difficulties for individuals. Personalities and abilities differ-from athletes to artists- having unique needs. Parents dealing with children with ADHD, twice gifted, learning disorders, or autism face very specific interactional challenges, impacting all areas of their life.
For persons of all ages, attempting to manage ADHD, giftedness, autism or dementia, identifying a particular diagnosis can be a frustrating journey.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with a variety of issues at all stages of development. Stress, anxiety, depression, and grief can be difficult to manage for anyone, and can be exacerbated by life circumstances. Relationship issues and family stressors can also be precipitants for increased difficulties for individuals. Personalities and abilities differ-from athletes to artists- having unique needs. Parents dealing with children with ADHD, twice gifted, learning disorders, or autism face very specific interactional challenges, impacting all areas of their life.
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
Janet A Vivero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Waitlist for new clients
, Autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities, etc.
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations.
I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration.
Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
, Autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities, etc.
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations.
I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration.
Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Bridget Tessman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can be overwhelming, stressful, and complicated, and it's okay to reach for support. Therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and expanding personal insight. In our sessions you experience a compassionate, non-judgmental, and tailored experience to your needs. When you feel open we will explore your thougths, feelings, develop coping skills, explore your relationships, and work towards your goals. Sessions will also be from a holistic and spiritual approach to mental health, addressing the mind, body, and soul connections. Together, we will create a plan to empower you to over come the obstacles and find peace.
Life can be overwhelming, stressful, and complicated, and it's okay to reach for support. Therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and expanding personal insight. In our sessions you experience a compassionate, non-judgmental, and tailored experience to your needs. When you feel open we will explore your thougths, feelings, develop coping skills, explore your relationships, and work towards your goals. Sessions will also be from a holistic and spiritual approach to mental health, addressing the mind, body, and soul connections. Together, we will create a plan to empower you to over come the obstacles and find peace.
See more therapy options for Palos Verdes Peninsula
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Palos Verdes Peninsula
- Carson
- El Segundo
- Gardena
- Hawthorne
- Hermosa Beach
- Long Beach
- Manhattan Beach
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Rancho Palos Verdes
- Redondo Beach
- San Pedro
- Torrance
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.