Autism Therapists in Boca Raton, FL

Photo of Dr. Jeremy Grunfeld, Ph D, LMFT, C-DBT, C-ASDCS, ADHD-CC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jeremy Grunfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ph D, LMFT, C-DBT, C-ASDCS, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I am a Certified DBT Therapist, Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
The hardest part is over. You have made the first step to resolving the problem. With 26 years of experience in the field, I pride myself on working with people who have not achieved desired results in previous therapy experiences. Sessions are provided both in-person and through teletherapy. I have extensive experience helping adolescents and adults who are not feeling satisfied with their lives. Additionally, I have a team of professionals who offer psychological evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, speech and language therapy, social skills training, and ABA Therapy.
I am a Certified DBT Therapist, Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
The hardest part is over. You have made the first step to resolving the problem. With 26 years of experience in the field, I pride myself on working with people who have not achieved desired results in previous therapy experiences. Sessions are provided both in-person and through teletherapy. I have extensive experience helping adolescents and adults who are not feeling satisfied with their lives. Additionally, I have a team of professionals who offer psychological evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, speech and language therapy, social skills training, and ABA Therapy.
(561) 717-0960 View (561) 717-0960
Photo of Jp Fairclough - Fairclough Behavior Services, BCBA
Fairclough Behavior Services
BCBA
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Greetings! I am Jaun Paul Fairclough, Director of Fairclough Behavior Services where we are specially trained to work with children with autism and other developmental disabilities. We provide in-home or school-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. We specialize in language, social skills, as well as the reduction of challenging behaviors for children ages 2-18.
Greetings! I am Jaun Paul Fairclough, Director of Fairclough Behavior Services where we are specially trained to work with children with autism and other developmental disabilities. We provide in-home or school-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. We specialize in language, social skills, as well as the reduction of challenging behaviors for children ages 2-18.
(561) 782-9085 View (561) 782-9085
Photo of Kelli Dari, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Kelli Dari
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I specialize in comprehensive psychoeducational and psychological evaluations for the assessment of Learning Disabilities, such as Dyslexia; Gifted; Intellectual Disability; Developmental Delay; Autism; Emotional or Behavior Disorders; and other psychological concerns for children and adolescents.
Why is my child having difficulties in school? Why is my child reading below grade level when practice reading at home every night? Why is my toddler not talking yet? What can I do if I feel my child is smart and needs more challenge at school? Why can my child not sit still for more than two minutes or follow direction? If you have found yourself asking these questions about your child, it may be time for you to consider a psychoeducational or psychological evaluation for him/her. A psychoeducational evaluation can help pinpoint why your child may be struggling and assist in determining interventions to help your child succeed.
I specialize in comprehensive psychoeducational and psychological evaluations for the assessment of Learning Disabilities, such as Dyslexia; Gifted; Intellectual Disability; Developmental Delay; Autism; Emotional or Behavior Disorders; and other psychological concerns for children and adolescents.
Why is my child having difficulties in school? Why is my child reading below grade level when practice reading at home every night? Why is my toddler not talking yet? What can I do if I feel my child is smart and needs more challenge at school? Why can my child not sit still for more than two minutes or follow direction? If you have found yourself asking these questions about your child, it may be time for you to consider a psychoeducational or psychological evaluation for him/her. A psychoeducational evaluation can help pinpoint why your child may be struggling and assist in determining interventions to help your child succeed.
(845) 286-4609 View (845) 286-4609
Photo of Shannon Shea, PhD, BCBA-D
Shannon Shea
PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433  (Online Only)
I have worked with a wide array of people. I've had the pleasure of working with individuals with Acquired or Traumatic Brain Injuries, Dementia, Intellectual Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. My work has been with people throughout the lifespan, from early childhood concerns, such as behavior problems, to adults of all ages. I work best with clients who would like to make a change in their life, and behavior, but do not have the tools or motivation to do so. We can work together to identify what might be causing issues & how to change those behaviors.
I have worked with a wide array of people. I've had the pleasure of working with individuals with Acquired or Traumatic Brain Injuries, Dementia, Intellectual Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. My work has been with people throughout the lifespan, from early childhood concerns, such as behavior problems, to adults of all ages. I work best with clients who would like to make a change in their life, and behavior, but do not have the tools or motivation to do so. We can work together to identify what might be causing issues & how to change those behaviors.
(954) 526-2341 View (954) 526-2341
Photo of Joanna Marko - Autism And Child Therapist, LMHC, ASDCS, Counselor
Joanna Marko - Autism And Child Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Healthy relationships are the foundation of your child’s resilience. Sense of Resiliency Counseling offers child and family therapy, specializing in trauma, behavioral challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder. When we begin to focus not on the behaviors, but on the root cause and emotional needs, that is when healing truly begins.
Healthy relationships are the foundation of your child’s resilience. Sense of Resiliency Counseling offers child and family therapy, specializing in trauma, behavioral challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder. When we begin to focus not on the behaviors, but on the root cause and emotional needs, that is when healing truly begins.
(954) 799-6865 View (954) 799-6865
Photo of Jason Spielman - Anxiety & OCD Treatment Center of Florida
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Center of Florida
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33498
The Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center of Florida is a private practice specializing in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PANDAS/PANS & numerous other psychological conditions/behavioral concerns. We offer evidence-supported treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and other support whose effectiveness has been proven by the most current scientific research. Dr. Spielman is a Florida & New York licensed psychologist & is PSYPACT approved for telehealth treatment in over 40 states
The Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center of Florida is a private practice specializing in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PANDAS/PANS & numerous other psychological conditions/behavioral concerns. We offer evidence-supported treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and other support whose effectiveness has been proven by the most current scientific research. Dr. Spielman is a Florida & New York licensed psychologist & is PSYPACT approved for telehealth treatment in over 40 states
(561) 567-7186 View (561) 567-7186
Photo of Eric J Nach, PhD, MEd, ASDc, Counselor
Eric J Nach
Counselor, PhD, MEd, ASDc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES, SCHOOLS JUST CAN'T! With a Ph.D. focusing on “Instructional Use of Research-Based Interventions for Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder”, I am a former ESE Department Chairperson and teacher, past and current National Speaker on many topics relating to ASD, ADHD and behaviors. At our “Counseling and Learning Center”, since 2012, my team of Counselors, Coaches and I conduct *College Life Skills, *Individual and Family Counseling, *Therapeutic Social Skills, *Executive Functioning, and *Behavior Modification Programs, Parent Training and much more.
WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES, SCHOOLS JUST CAN'T! With a Ph.D. focusing on “Instructional Use of Research-Based Interventions for Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder”, I am a former ESE Department Chairperson and teacher, past and current National Speaker on many topics relating to ASD, ADHD and behaviors. At our “Counseling and Learning Center”, since 2012, my team of Counselors, Coaches and I conduct *College Life Skills, *Individual and Family Counseling, *Therapeutic Social Skills, *Executive Functioning, and *Behavior Modification Programs, Parent Training and much more.
(561) 277-3407 View (561) 277-3407
Photo of Lauren Gerber, MSEd, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Gerber
Psychologist, MSEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Gerber was the Director of a Center for Autism here in Florida before transitioning into full time private practice.
When a parent recognizes that they need support with their developing child or adolescent, "Dr. Lauren" is there to help. Dr. Lauren Gerber, a Licensed Psychologist in Florida and Illinois, has been practicing for 20 years with children, adolescents, young adults and their families. She provides a safe and nurturing environment where you and your family can feel confident journeying through life together. She works with all members of the family providing emotional scaffolding for children as well as parent support and connection to local resources. Dr. Lauren Gerber's award winning books are in Barnes and Noble.
Gerber was the Director of a Center for Autism here in Florida before transitioning into full time private practice.
When a parent recognizes that they need support with their developing child or adolescent, "Dr. Lauren" is there to help. Dr. Lauren Gerber, a Licensed Psychologist in Florida and Illinois, has been practicing for 20 years with children, adolescents, young adults and their families. She provides a safe and nurturing environment where you and your family can feel confident journeying through life together. She works with all members of the family providing emotional scaffolding for children as well as parent support and connection to local resources. Dr. Lauren Gerber's award winning books are in Barnes and Noble.
(847) 807-4821 View (847) 807-4821
Photo of Stephanie L Renfrow - Autism Diagnostic Center, PhD
Autism Diagnostic Center
PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
ADC was established to provide families with a comprehensive assessment of their child's development and behavior, serving AGES 12 MONTHS TO ADULTHOOD. The objective of the evaluation is to determine whether delays are consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other neurodevelopmental impairments, and to determine the most effective and appropriate course of action with regards to treatment options. Primary Areas of Assessment include: Functional assessment determines the child's ability to adapt to the demands of everyday life and assesses presence of repetitive/restrictive behaviors and interests; Emotional assessment determine's the child's ability to regulate, express and manage strong emotions; Social skills assessment determines the child's ability to interact, communicate and reciprocate as expected for their age. All assessments include the use of ADOS2 which is heavily sought out by insurance companies in the coverage of therapeutic needs and services. Please call or visit HTTPS://CALENDLY.COM/DR-RENFROW to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with Dr. Renfrow. WWW.ADCBOCA.COM
ADC was established to provide families with a comprehensive assessment of their child's development and behavior, serving AGES 12 MONTHS TO ADULTHOOD. The objective of the evaluation is to determine whether delays are consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other neurodevelopmental impairments, and to determine the most effective and appropriate course of action with regards to treatment options. Primary Areas of Assessment include: Functional assessment determines the child's ability to adapt to the demands of everyday life and assesses presence of repetitive/restrictive behaviors and interests; Emotional assessment determine's the child's ability to regulate, express and manage strong emotions; Social skills assessment determines the child's ability to interact, communicate and reciprocate as expected for their age. All assessments include the use of ADOS2 which is heavily sought out by insurance companies in the coverage of therapeutic needs and services. Please call or visit HTTPS://CALENDLY.COM/DR-RENFROW to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with Dr. Renfrow. WWW.ADCBOCA.COM
(561) 413-7759 View (561) 413-7759
Photo of Stace Ann Katzman - Spectrum Play Therapy, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Spectrum Play Therapy
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Hello and thank you for your interest in Spectrum Play Therapy. I serve children and young adults on and off the Autism Spectrum. I have more than 25 years of experience working with children with various disabilities including, ADHD, anxiety disorders, self-regulation issues, behavioral challenges, socialization difficulties, school adjustment problems, and post traumatic stress disorder. Each child is accepted and treated as an individual while helping them to reach their highest personal potential.
Hello and thank you for your interest in Spectrum Play Therapy. I serve children and young adults on and off the Autism Spectrum. I have more than 25 years of experience working with children with various disabilities including, ADHD, anxiety disorders, self-regulation issues, behavioral challenges, socialization difficulties, school adjustment problems, and post traumatic stress disorder. Each child is accepted and treated as an individual while helping them to reach their highest personal potential.
(561) 782-9910 View (561) 782-9910
Photo of Jp Fairclough - Fairclough Behavior Services LLC, BCBA
Fairclough Behavior Services LLC
BCBA
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Greetings! I'm Jaun Paul Fairclough, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, with 15 years of experience in special education. I'm specially trained to work with children with autism and other developmental disabilities. I provide in-home or school-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. I specialize in language, social skills, as well as the reduction of challenging behaviors for children ages 2-18.
Greetings! I'm Jaun Paul Fairclough, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, with 15 years of experience in special education. I'm specially trained to work with children with autism and other developmental disabilities. I provide in-home or school-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. I specialize in language, social skills, as well as the reduction of challenging behaviors for children ages 2-18.
(754) 457-0200 View (754) 457-0200
Photo of Ellen Kipnis - Ellen Kipnis, LCSW - Comprehensive Evaluations, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Kipnis, LCSW - Comprehensive Evaluations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33496
She specializes in diagnosing Autism, ADHD, OCD, Tourette syndrome, and other behavioral and mood disorders in children and adults.
Ellen Kipnis offers comprehensive evaluation services for educational and testing accommodations (such as 504 plans, MCAT, SAT, ACT, LSAT, MPRE, and BAR), immigration purposes, bariatric surgery clearance, and parental fitness/child custody. Ellen employs various industry-standard assessment tools to clarify diagnoses and rule out commonly misdiagnosed mental health conditions in children and adults. Her extensive experience ensures accurate assessments and tailored support for a range of needs.
She specializes in diagnosing Autism, ADHD, OCD, Tourette syndrome, and other behavioral and mood disorders in children and adults.
Ellen Kipnis offers comprehensive evaluation services for educational and testing accommodations (such as 504 plans, MCAT, SAT, ACT, LSAT, MPRE, and BAR), immigration purposes, bariatric surgery clearance, and parental fitness/child custody. Ellen employs various industry-standard assessment tools to clarify diagnoses and rule out commonly misdiagnosed mental health conditions in children and adults. Her extensive experience ensures accurate assessments and tailored support for a range of needs.
(561) 250-7323 View (561) 250-7323
Photo of Heidi Escoto - Yogology, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Yogology, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33427
I have over 20 years of specialized experience in working with Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and OCD.
If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, or depression and would like an "out of the box" approach to therapy, I can help. In addition to a psychologist, I am also a RYT 500 hr. Yoga Teacher and Meditation Teacher. My goal is to facilitate your personal health and wellness. I work collaboratively with clients to identify ample learning opportunities they can create in their everyday environment to achieve the outcomes they want for themselves. I also offer Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations and supervision for other professionals. I offer services in person in Clayton, NC and/or online via a HIPAA secure telehealth portal.
I have over 20 years of specialized experience in working with Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and OCD.
If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, or depression and would like an "out of the box" approach to therapy, I can help. In addition to a psychologist, I am also a RYT 500 hr. Yoga Teacher and Meditation Teacher. My goal is to facilitate your personal health and wellness. I work collaboratively with clients to identify ample learning opportunities they can create in their everyday environment to achieve the outcomes they want for themselves. I also offer Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations and supervision for other professionals. I offer services in person in Clayton, NC and/or online via a HIPAA secure telehealth portal.
(919) 533-2348 View (919) 533-2348
Photo of Stephanie Eckler, MPsy, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Eckler
Counselor, MPsy, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Anxiety, panic, autism spectrum, parenting stress, depression, loss/grief, relationship changes, social challenges, life transitions, teen issues, obsessions/compulsions, low self esteem, and emotional stresses. Stephanie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, and a Certified Mindfulness-informed Clinician with many years of experience delivering evidence based psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strength based approaches, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Anxiety, panic, autism spectrum, parenting stress, depression, loss/grief, relationship changes, social challenges, life transitions, teen issues, obsessions/compulsions, low self esteem, and emotional stresses. Stephanie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, and a Certified Mindfulness-informed Clinician with many years of experience delivering evidence based psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strength based approaches, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
(754) 218-9899 View (754) 218-9899
Photo of Amber Benamou, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Benamou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33428  (Online Only)
I've been a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Florida for the past 12 years. I've worked in different areas of practice, including community mental health, addictions, and with children and families. I have a special place in my heart for helping adults in their 20's, 30's and 40's, parents of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and individuals with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I strive to be my most authentic self and when appropriate, sprinkle in some humor into our sessions.
I've been a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Florida for the past 12 years. I've worked in different areas of practice, including community mental health, addictions, and with children and families. I have a special place in my heart for helping adults in their 20's, 30's and 40's, parents of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and individuals with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I strive to be my most authentic self and when appropriate, sprinkle in some humor into our sessions.
(954) 945-9942 View (954) 945-9942
Photo of Rachael Silverman, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Rachael Silverman
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
I specialize in providing child, adolescent, adult, couple, & family therapy as well as psycho-educational testing & consultation services. In addition, I have experience with behavioral, academic, & emotional concerns. I provide treatment & testing for anxiety disorders, depression, stress related issues, and neurodevelopmental disorders specifically ADHD, communication, autism spectrum, learning disorders, & developmental disabilities. I have worked in schools, medical centers, university-based clinics, hospitals, & private practices. I have completed Level 2 Training in the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy & use Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I am available Monday through Saturday during the day & evenings. www.drrachaelsilverman.com
I specialize in providing child, adolescent, adult, couple, & family therapy as well as psycho-educational testing & consultation services. In addition, I have experience with behavioral, academic, & emotional concerns. I provide treatment & testing for anxiety disorders, depression, stress related issues, and neurodevelopmental disorders specifically ADHD, communication, autism spectrum, learning disorders, & developmental disabilities. I have worked in schools, medical centers, university-based clinics, hospitals, & private practices. I have completed Level 2 Training in the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy & use Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I am available Monday through Saturday during the day & evenings. www.drrachaelsilverman.com
(561) 257-4072 View (561) 257-4072
Photo of Alyse November, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyse November
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
(561) 264-1012 View (561) 264-1012
Photo of Karen Diane Lane-Garland, NCSP, LSP, ABSNP
Karen Diane Lane-Garland
NCSP, LSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
I specialize in psycho-educational assessment for gifted, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, emotional/behavioral problems, executive function, and school neuropsych issues (focuses upon brain/behavior relationships and how they are manifested in the classroom). Retiree of the School District of PBC as a school psychologist (34years), so I am very familiar with educational issues, special education programs, individual education plans, and the problem-solving process which leads to various interventions for learning, language, and emotional/behavioral problems. In addition, I work with 504 plans, (Americans with Disabilities Act).
I specialize in psycho-educational assessment for gifted, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, emotional/behavioral problems, executive function, and school neuropsych issues (focuses upon brain/behavior relationships and how they are manifested in the classroom). Retiree of the School District of PBC as a school psychologist (34years), so I am very familiar with educational issues, special education programs, individual education plans, and the problem-solving process which leads to various interventions for learning, language, and emotional/behavioral problems. In addition, I work with 504 plans, (Americans with Disabilities Act).
(561) 531-5518 View (561) 531-5518
Photo of Alexsey Goodman, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexsey Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Hi! My name is Alexsey Goodman. I am an Independent Contract Clinician at Genesis Counseling with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. I have multiple years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, such as non-profit organizations, schools and outpatient clinics. I have worked with children of all ages, who have a multitude of diagnoses including, Depression, ADHD, Parent/Child Relational Problems, Anxiety, Mood, Adjustment and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Hi! My name is Alexsey Goodman. I am an Independent Contract Clinician at Genesis Counseling with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. I have multiple years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, such as non-profit organizations, schools and outpatient clinics. I have worked with children of all ages, who have a multitude of diagnoses including, Depression, ADHD, Parent/Child Relational Problems, Anxiety, Mood, Adjustment and those on the Autism Spectrum.
(561) 375-5954 View (561) 375-5954
Photo of Lauryn Young, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Lauryn Young
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Families seek my services to receive answers to their questions regarding their child's learning and/or behavior. Typical concerns include learning disabilities (i.e., dyslexia), giftedness, intellectual functioning, ADHD, developmental delays, and Autism. My ideal client is one who is looking for a clinician who can diagnose, consult, and collaborate to provide meaningful recommendations and resources to bridge the gap between their child's school, home, and community. Most importantly, my clients are searching for recommendations that are easily understood by school-based teams and appropriate within the school setting.
Families seek my services to receive answers to their questions regarding their child's learning and/or behavior. Typical concerns include learning disabilities (i.e., dyslexia), giftedness, intellectual functioning, ADHD, developmental delays, and Autism. My ideal client is one who is looking for a clinician who can diagnose, consult, and collaborate to provide meaningful recommendations and resources to bridge the gap between their child's school, home, and community. Most importantly, my clients are searching for recommendations that are easily understood by school-based teams and appropriate within the school setting.
(561) 763-9384 View (561) 763-9384
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.