Autism Therapists in Boulder, CO

Photo of Dylan Ross Leigh, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Dylan Ross Leigh
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
I specialize working with young adult and adult men. Alongside therapy, I am an adjunct faculty at Naropa's graduate school of clinical mental health, and an organizational consultant. Clients I work with typically possess high degrees of cognitive & emotional intelligence. ADHD, Autism, and Depression & Anxiety are common diagnoses for these clients. Presenting problems often include; exiting or being in intimate relationships, maintaining recovery and working with relapse from substance use disorder, existential questions of identity, meaning, purpose and life transitions.
I specialize working with young adult and adult men. Alongside therapy, I am an adjunct faculty at Naropa's graduate school of clinical mental health, and an organizational consultant. Clients I work with typically possess high degrees of cognitive & emotional intelligence. ADHD, Autism, and Depression & Anxiety are common diagnoses for these clients. Presenting problems often include; exiting or being in intimate relationships, maintaining recovery and working with relapse from substance use disorder, existential questions of identity, meaning, purpose and life transitions.
(720) 513-3736 View (720) 513-3736
Photo of Forrest Harding - Fjord Health, EdD
Fjord Health
EdD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Fjord Health specializes in the assessment, evaluation and diagnoses of NDD's including Autism, ADHD and interrelated concerns.
Fjord Health is dedicated to fighting healthcare access barriers and eliminating the incredibly long waitlists often associated with accessing high-quality medical care for Autism spectrum disorders ( Autism), ADHD and Neurodevelopment Disorder (NDD’s) assessment and evaluation. Fjord empowers families as a non-profit direct patient provider organization performing affordable, inclusive and accessible neuropsychological assessments, evaluations and supportive care. Fjord Health specializes in Neurodevelopment Disorders (NDD’s) such as Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).
Fjord Health specializes in the assessment, evaluation and diagnoses of NDD's including Autism, ADHD and interrelated concerns.
Fjord Health is dedicated to fighting healthcare access barriers and eliminating the incredibly long waitlists often associated with accessing high-quality medical care for Autism spectrum disorders ( Autism), ADHD and Neurodevelopment Disorder (NDD’s) assessment and evaluation. Fjord empowers families as a non-profit direct patient provider organization performing affordable, inclusive and accessible neuropsychological assessments, evaluations and supportive care. Fjord Health specializes in Neurodevelopment Disorders (NDD’s) such as Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).
(720) 784-5569 View (720) 784-5569
Photo of Meg McNeil, MA, LPCC
Meg McNeil
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I’m a queer and neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting members of my communities (and beyond) in finding healing and transformation. I’m not here to ‘fix’ you, because somewhere within you, you're already whole. What I am here for is supporting and guiding you toward (re)connecting with your wholeness, healing the trauma stored in your body, and freeing yourself from painful patterns. Together we can navigate the tender areas of Autism, ADHD, trauma, identity, oppression, anxiety, depression, burnout, and much more.
Welcome! I’m a queer and neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting members of my communities (and beyond) in finding healing and transformation. I’m not here to ‘fix’ you, because somewhere within you, you're already whole. What I am here for is supporting and guiding you toward (re)connecting with your wholeness, healing the trauma stored in your body, and freeing yourself from painful patterns. Together we can navigate the tender areas of Autism, ADHD, trauma, identity, oppression, anxiety, depression, burnout, and much more.
(720) 679-7213 View (720) 679-7213
Photo of Dana Cohen, MA, LPCC, RYT, Counselor
Dana Cohen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Claire Thomas-Duckwitz, PhD, Psychologist
Claire Thomas-Duckwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I specialize in working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities including autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. I work with both children and adults, providing evaluations from a neuro-positive perspective. Note: I continue to provide autism and ADHD evaluations for most ages, but I keep the therapy portion of my practice very limited. Because of the limited number of providers working with adults on the spectrum, I am still accepting adult therapy clients with a previous diagnosis of autism.
I specialize in working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities including autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. I work with both children and adults, providing evaluations from a neuro-positive perspective. Note: I continue to provide autism and ADHD evaluations for most ages, but I keep the therapy portion of my practice very limited. Because of the limited number of providers working with adults on the spectrum, I am still accepting adult therapy clients with a previous diagnosis of autism.
(719) 568-9625 View (719) 568-9625
Photo of Brian Wolff, PhD, Psychologist
Brian Wolff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specialized training in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Dyslexia and other learning disabilities, intellectual and executive functioning, developmental challenges, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties. My clinical work is grounded in evidence-based research and employs a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach to assessment and therapy. I also collaborate with families in developing and sustaining educational and treatment plans focused on supporting the academic, cognitive, social-emotional, and behavioral needs of children and teenagers. Plans can include individual and/or family therapy, as well as consultation with school teams and health professionals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specialized training in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Dyslexia and other learning disabilities, intellectual and executive functioning, developmental challenges, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties. My clinical work is grounded in evidence-based research and employs a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach to assessment and therapy. I also collaborate with families in developing and sustaining educational and treatment plans focused on supporting the academic, cognitive, social-emotional, and behavioral needs of children and teenagers. Plans can include individual and/or family therapy, as well as consultation with school teams and health professionals.
(303) 747-4015 View (303) 747-4015
Photo of Marcy Leffingwell Willard, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Marcy Leffingwell Willard
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
A warm and authentic therapist with expertise in parenting issues, particularly in the wake of a separation or divorce. Therapy is solution-oriented with direct feedback to help you find your path forward from here. If you want to know how to best support your kids through a time of chaos and crisis, you found the right place. Parenting neurodiverse children with autism, giftedness, ADHD, and learning challenges is my focus. You can get parenting and co-parenting guidance, expert case consultations for divorce proceedings, and child psychology diagnostic assessments. In our work together, your family can go from chaos to calm.
A warm and authentic therapist with expertise in parenting issues, particularly in the wake of a separation or divorce. Therapy is solution-oriented with direct feedback to help you find your path forward from here. If you want to know how to best support your kids through a time of chaos and crisis, you found the right place. Parenting neurodiverse children with autism, giftedness, ADHD, and learning challenges is my focus. You can get parenting and co-parenting guidance, expert case consultations for divorce proceedings, and child psychology diagnostic assessments. In our work together, your family can go from chaos to calm.
(720) 649-6540 View (720) 649-6540
Photo of Sarah Newton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Newton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I treat anxiety disorders (GAD, OCD, social anxiety), depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders.
Hello! It's great to meet you. Thanks for taking the first step in exploring how you can create a more fulfilling life. I work with clients ages 14+, with a focus on understanding client's behaviors and how they impact their relationships; both with themselves and others. I believe that everyone has the capacity to learn the tools they need to have meaningful relationships and experiences. Therapy is a safe space to learn, practice and reflect on these tools and I hope that you feel empowered to take this first step. My primary treatment modalities include CBT, ACT and ABA. I interact with clients through a trauma-informed lens.
I treat anxiety disorders (GAD, OCD, social anxiety), depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders.
Hello! It's great to meet you. Thanks for taking the first step in exploring how you can create a more fulfilling life. I work with clients ages 14+, with a focus on understanding client's behaviors and how they impact their relationships; both with themselves and others. I believe that everyone has the capacity to learn the tools they need to have meaningful relationships and experiences. Therapy is a safe space to learn, practice and reflect on these tools and I hope that you feel empowered to take this first step. My primary treatment modalities include CBT, ACT and ABA. I interact with clients through a trauma-informed lens.
(720) 637-2213 View (720) 637-2213
Photo of Sara Colorosa - The Engagement Catalyst, PhD
The Engagement Catalyst
PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I specialize in working with young adults and adults on the Autism Spectrum, identifying strengths to incorporate into daily life that transfer into the world of work.
Together with clients we set goals and work towards goals - together! I am here every step of the way so that clients walk away with action items that work for them.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults on the Autism Spectrum, identifying strengths to incorporate into daily life that transfer into the world of work.
Together with clients we set goals and work towards goals - together! I am here every step of the way so that clients walk away with action items that work for them.
(970) 514-6533 View (970) 514-6533
Photo of Daleth McCoy, MA, LPCC, MEd
Daleth McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80305  (Online Only)
I have specialized experience working with Autism, ADHD, Trauma, Parenting, Behavioral Issues, School Issues, and LGBTQIA+.
NOTE: I am currently waitlisting clients as I acquire supervision. Like online dating, it's hard to know from a photo or a write-up if a counselor is going to be a good fit. There is so much to personality, communication style, individual needs, and what people both have to offer each other. The therapy methods used become less important if a client regularly feels "silently judged" or they simply can't stand their counselor's voice. The strengths I bring are transparency, integrity, relatability, vulnerability (oh yes, I'm quite human!), creativity, kindness, flexibility, and a deep desire to always be a student at life.
I have specialized experience working with Autism, ADHD, Trauma, Parenting, Behavioral Issues, School Issues, and LGBTQIA+.
NOTE: I am currently waitlisting clients as I acquire supervision. Like online dating, it's hard to know from a photo or a write-up if a counselor is going to be a good fit. There is so much to personality, communication style, individual needs, and what people both have to offer each other. The therapy methods used become less important if a client regularly feels "silently judged" or they simply can't stand their counselor's voice. The strengths I bring are transparency, integrity, relatability, vulnerability (oh yes, I'm quite human!), creativity, kindness, flexibility, and a deep desire to always be a student at life.
(720) 500-9168 View (720) 500-9168
Photo of Amara Brook, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Amara Brook
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80309
I offer neurodiversity-affirming Autism and ADHD assessments for all ages, and have a special interest in clients whose autism and/or ADHD are masked by other factors such as high cognitive and/or verbal ability, gender, race, age, or other psychiatric diagnoses.
Are you Autistic and/or ADHD and struggling in a world not designed for your neurotype? Or do you suspect that you may be Autistic and/or ADHD and want to work with a down-to-earth neurodivergent psychologist to find out? Are you looking for a therapist who gets the struggle? I offer collaborative and neurodiversity-affirming assessment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) tailored to the needs of Autistic and ADHD clients.
I offer neurodiversity-affirming Autism and ADHD assessments for all ages, and have a special interest in clients whose autism and/or ADHD are masked by other factors such as high cognitive and/or verbal ability, gender, race, age, or other psychiatric diagnoses.
Are you Autistic and/or ADHD and struggling in a world not designed for your neurotype? Or do you suspect that you may be Autistic and/or ADHD and want to work with a down-to-earth neurodivergent psychologist to find out? Are you looking for a therapist who gets the struggle? I offer collaborative and neurodiversity-affirming assessment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) tailored to the needs of Autistic and ADHD clients.
(775) 260-4455 View (775) 260-4455
Photo of Lori Schumacher - Lori Schumacher, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Schumacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I have experience working with a diversity of needs, though I specialize working with families, children, teens on the autism spectrum.
Many of us carry the idea that happiness is about being content, cheerful, carrying a smile on one's face all the time. Rather, I like to think of well-being as a balance in one's "emotional ecosystem," or variety of different emotions we allow ourselves to experience.I believe that our emotional flexibility to experience a full range of emotions (positive, negative, & a mix of both) is strongly linked to our feelings of happiness & well-being. No, I don't believe there's anything wrong with you. Perhaps all you need rightnow are tools to help you embrace the full range of your human experience while "surfing" those emotional waves.
I have experience working with a diversity of needs, though I specialize working with families, children, teens on the autism spectrum.
Many of us carry the idea that happiness is about being content, cheerful, carrying a smile on one's face all the time. Rather, I like to think of well-being as a balance in one's "emotional ecosystem," or variety of different emotions we allow ourselves to experience.I believe that our emotional flexibility to experience a full range of emotions (positive, negative, & a mix of both) is strongly linked to our feelings of happiness & well-being. No, I don't believe there's anything wrong with you. Perhaps all you need rightnow are tools to help you embrace the full range of your human experience while "surfing" those emotional waves.
(720) 571-9359 View (720) 571-9359
Photo of Jill Lubansky - Solutions, Psychological Assessment and Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Solutions, Psychological Assessment and Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I provide therapy as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations to children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I offer a variety of behavioral health services and specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I take a positive, solution-focused approach to work with clients and their families. Concerns I most often treat in children, adolescents, and adults with ASD include anxiety, depression, social skill difficulties, emotion dysregulation, adjustment to medical illness, life transitions, and work-related difficulties. I also provide parent support to caregivers struggling with their children’s and adolescents’ behaviors such as excessive use of electronics, toileting difficulties, and outbursts.
I provide therapy as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations to children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I offer a variety of behavioral health services and specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I take a positive, solution-focused approach to work with clients and their families. Concerns I most often treat in children, adolescents, and adults with ASD include anxiety, depression, social skill difficulties, emotion dysregulation, adjustment to medical illness, life transitions, and work-related difficulties. I also provide parent support to caregivers struggling with their children’s and adolescents’ behaviors such as excessive use of electronics, toileting difficulties, and outbursts.
(720) 386-1437 View (720) 386-1437
Photo of Nicole Hipp - Collegiate Coaching Services, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Collegiate Coaching Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Our specialty includes the assessment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder & related diagnoses, Internet/Gaming Overuse/Addiction & mental health issues.
Dr. Hipp provides comprehensive psychoeducational, psychosocial and neuropsychological assessments to adolescents and adults 16+. We specialize in helping clients & families clarify diagnoses, determine how to improve academic, occupational & social performance, as well targeted assessment of emerging/existing mental health issues. Detailed recommendations & treatment plans that will address specific concerns and goals are provided by identifying personal strengths and areas for improvement.
Our specialty includes the assessment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder & related diagnoses, Internet/Gaming Overuse/Addiction & mental health issues.
Dr. Hipp provides comprehensive psychoeducational, psychosocial and neuropsychological assessments to adolescents and adults 16+. We specialize in helping clients & families clarify diagnoses, determine how to improve academic, occupational & social performance, as well targeted assessment of emerging/existing mental health issues. Detailed recommendations & treatment plans that will address specific concerns and goals are provided by identifying personal strengths and areas for improvement.
(303) 635-6753 View (303) 635-6753
Photo of Lianna Purjes, MSEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lianna Purjes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Are you having a hard time getting your brain to quiet down? Even when things objectively go ok, do you question and dissect every little thing you said and did? Are you having racing thoughts, difficulty focusing, or trouble sleeping? Do you feel disconnected from others? I bet you’re exhausted spending so much energy trying to fit other people’s expectations, and how can you not be?! Neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism), family of origin trauma, and loving an addict can all have these effects on your day to day life and long term mental health.
Are you having a hard time getting your brain to quiet down? Even when things objectively go ok, do you question and dissect every little thing you said and did? Are you having racing thoughts, difficulty focusing, or trouble sleeping? Do you feel disconnected from others? I bet you’re exhausted spending so much energy trying to fit other people’s expectations, and how can you not be?! Neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism), family of origin trauma, and loving an addict can all have these effects on your day to day life and long term mental health.
(720) 740-2741 View (720) 740-2741
Photo of Dr. Leslie Alter, PsyD
Dr. Leslie Alter
Psychologist Candidate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan with various presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, autism, identity exploration, and relationship issues.
Psychotherapy is a window for self-discovery. For me, this process centers around the therapeutic relationship. In collaboration, I can help you better understand historical patterns, with yourself and others, while creating a contained, consistent, and reparative relational experience. Through this exploration, we look beyond what exists on the surface to understand and address the root causes of challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This is how we can live our most authentic lives.
I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan with various presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, autism, identity exploration, and relationship issues.
Psychotherapy is a window for self-discovery. For me, this process centers around the therapeutic relationship. In collaboration, I can help you better understand historical patterns, with yourself and others, while creating a contained, consistent, and reparative relational experience. Through this exploration, we look beyond what exists on the surface to understand and address the root causes of challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This is how we can live our most authentic lives.
(720) 707-2965 View (720) 707-2965
Photo of Stephen W. Koelemay, Psychologist
Stephen W. Koelemay
Psychologist
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
My clinical specialties include: Anxiety Management, Depression, Men's Issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder/ Asperger Syndrome/ Neurodiversity Issues, Life Transitions, Interpersonal/ Social difficulties, College Preparation and Adjustment, Substance Abuse/ Dependence, Low Self Esteem, Motivational Issues, and Relationship Difficulties.
I'm a clinical psychologist providing individual therapy for adults and adolescents. If you're here, then you're probably looking for a change. Life can be unpredictable, complicated, and demanding. Low self-esteem, unpleasant moods, challenging relationships, and academic/professional stressors can be difficult to navigate alone. Together we can determine what a change may look like for you and develop strategies for moving towards that change. I view therapy as a collaborative process -- a joint effort towards feeling more connected, satisfied, and adaptable. I work with professionals, students, artists, musicians, parents, and many other individuals.
My clinical specialties include: Anxiety Management, Depression, Men's Issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder/ Asperger Syndrome/ Neurodiversity Issues, Life Transitions, Interpersonal/ Social difficulties, College Preparation and Adjustment, Substance Abuse/ Dependence, Low Self Esteem, Motivational Issues, and Relationship Difficulties.
I'm a clinical psychologist providing individual therapy for adults and adolescents. If you're here, then you're probably looking for a change. Life can be unpredictable, complicated, and demanding. Low self-esteem, unpleasant moods, challenging relationships, and academic/professional stressors can be difficult to navigate alone. Together we can determine what a change may look like for you and develop strategies for moving towards that change. I view therapy as a collaborative process -- a joint effort towards feeling more connected, satisfied, and adaptable. I work with professionals, students, artists, musicians, parents, and many other individuals.
(720) 336-7903 View (720) 336-7903
Photo of Erin R Whitney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin R Whitney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
(832) 850-2262 View (832) 850-2262
Photo of Annep P Maxwell, PhD, Psychologist
Annep P Maxwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children,teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I am certified to treat children, adolescents and adults with internet addictions (gaming, social media, compulsive information seeking).
I enjoy working with children,teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I am certified to treat children, adolescents and adults with internet addictions (gaming, social media, compulsive information seeking).
(720) 868-9092 View (720) 868-9092
Photo of Elizabeth Jackson, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Areas of Interest : Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, Depression, Relationship and Social Skills Building, Divorce, Assessment; Substance Use Evaluations and Treatment, Personality and Intelligence Testing, Parenting Development, Court Ordered Evaluations and Counseling.
I have been practicing psychology very successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
Areas of Interest : Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, Depression, Relationship and Social Skills Building, Divorce, Assessment; Substance Use Evaluations and Treatment, Personality and Intelligence Testing, Parenting Development, Court Ordered Evaluations and Counseling.
I have been practicing psychology very successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
(720) 310-6351 View (720) 310-6351
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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.