Autism Therapists in Brooksville, FL

Photo of Annette L Becklund - Annette L Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Assoc LLC, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette L Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Assoc LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34609
Hello, I look forward to working with you, no matter what you are going through. I specialize in Autism & Asperger's & Unique Ways of Being. I hold an EMDR level 2 certificate, a certification in Heart Centered Hypnotherapy; I am a licensed Trim Life provider and I am trained in sand play. If you are ready to do the work and prefer deep, meaningful discoveries within yourself, then feel free to call today and set up an appointment. I work with very young children through to age 99. Autism evaluations for teens through Adults. Familiar with NPEs MPEs (Not Parent Expected/Misattributed Parentage) from DNA testing, etc.
Hello, I look forward to working with you, no matter what you are going through. I specialize in Autism & Asperger's & Unique Ways of Being. I hold an EMDR level 2 certificate, a certification in Heart Centered Hypnotherapy; I am a licensed Trim Life provider and I am trained in sand play. If you are ready to do the work and prefer deep, meaningful discoveries within yourself, then feel free to call today and set up an appointment. I work with very young children through to age 99. Autism evaluations for teens through Adults. Familiar with NPEs MPEs (Not Parent Expected/Misattributed Parentage) from DNA testing, etc.
(727) 201-0639 View (727) 201-0639
Photo of Patricia Demasky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Demasky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34614
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
(904) 906-4432 View (904) 906-4432
Photo of Dr. S. Abraham Varghese - Central West Behavioral Health, PhD, MSW, LCSW, CAP
Central West Behavioral Health
PhD, MSW, LCSW, CAP
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34601
Central West Behavioral Health LLC, Spring Hill, Florida, is a mental health counseling and psychotherapy center that provides counseling services. The primary objective of this organization is to provide mental health counseling services to the Spring Hill area and Hernando County residents. The mission of this organization is to provide evidence-based therapeutic counseling services to clients, both affordable and to help them to attain their potential and best outcome. We offer a wide range of counseling services to help our clients establish their goals, achieve them, and feel well for them. In addition, we provide compassionate and excellent care for all our clients based on a holistic approach and truly based on their needs and expectations.
Central West Behavioral Health LLC, Spring Hill, Florida, is a mental health counseling and psychotherapy center that provides counseling services. The primary objective of this organization is to provide mental health counseling services to the Spring Hill area and Hernando County residents. The mission of this organization is to provide evidence-based therapeutic counseling services to clients, both affordable and to help them to attain their potential and best outcome. We offer a wide range of counseling services to help our clients establish their goals, achieve them, and feel well for them. In addition, we provide compassionate and excellent care for all our clients based on a holistic approach and truly based on their needs and expectations.
(352) 706-8722 View (352) 706-8722
Photo of Sylvia Currie, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylvia Currie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34601  (Online Only)
The days tick on and you feel paralyzed by the enormity of the decisions coming your way. Your loved one has just been given a diagnosis and you're struggling to understand what that even means to your life. Trying to face the fact that this time next year they may not be here feels impossible. This illness has stolen pieces of you, stolen your loved one's identity. You feel lost in the sea of doctors, medical jargon, and referrals, struggling to keep your head above water. With no clear sense of direction, you turn inward and feel alone. The tears, fears, and questions can only be hidden for so long. So, what now?
The days tick on and you feel paralyzed by the enormity of the decisions coming your way. Your loved one has just been given a diagnosis and you're struggling to understand what that even means to your life. Trying to face the fact that this time next year they may not be here feels impossible. This illness has stolen pieces of you, stolen your loved one's identity. You feel lost in the sea of doctors, medical jargon, and referrals, struggling to keep your head above water. With no clear sense of direction, you turn inward and feel alone. The tears, fears, and questions can only be hidden for so long. So, what now?
(239) 829-9059 View (239) 829-9059

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Danielson, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Danielson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34606
I have devoted my life to helping people become to best versions of themselves. I provide Assessments, Screenings, Evolutions and Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in Trauma, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Autism, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Substance Misuse and Behavioral Issues. I believe every person deserves a tailored approach that is conducive to their healing. I am Independently Licensed and see clients is three states, West Virginia, Ohio, and Florida.
I have devoted my life to helping people become to best versions of themselves. I provide Assessments, Screenings, Evolutions and Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in Trauma, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Autism, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Substance Misuse and Behavioral Issues. I believe every person deserves a tailored approach that is conducive to their healing. I am Independently Licensed and see clients is three states, West Virginia, Ohio, and Florida.
(352) 290-8954 View (352) 290-8954
Photo of Sativa M Fisher, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sativa M Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34606
Waitlist for new clients
It is a privilege and passion to walk alongside my clients who are motivated to work through some of life’s major life stressors and challenges. Walking through life can be difficult and I provide an open and encouraging space for my clients to explore and create the best version of themselves. Together, I work with my clients to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and skill building. Through the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques my clients will plan for their future and work through their past and enjoy their present.
It is a privilege and passion to walk alongside my clients who are motivated to work through some of life’s major life stressors and challenges. Walking through life can be difficult and I provide an open and encouraging space for my clients to explore and create the best version of themselves. Together, I work with my clients to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and skill building. Through the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques my clients will plan for their future and work through their past and enjoy their present.
(352) 770-1479 View (352) 770-1479

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathryn Jann - Family Tree Behavioral Care, LLC, PhD, BCBA-D
Family Tree Behavioral Care, LLC
PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D), I provide applied behavior analysis services with an emphasis on functional analyses and function-based treatments to all ages. I specialize in treating problem behaviors (e.g., aggression, property destruction, pica, tantrums, elopement, noncompliance). I also provide skill development (e.g., social, communication, play, academic, vocational, and daily living skills). I work with all abilities and disabilities, including gifted children who struggle with social and communication skills and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities. I provide extensive caregiver training and home services.
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D), I provide applied behavior analysis services with an emphasis on functional analyses and function-based treatments to all ages. I specialize in treating problem behaviors (e.g., aggression, property destruction, pica, tantrums, elopement, noncompliance). I also provide skill development (e.g., social, communication, play, academic, vocational, and daily living skills). I work with all abilities and disabilities, including gifted children who struggle with social and communication skills and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities. I provide extensive caregiver training and home services.
(941) 404-3721 View (941) 404-3721
Photo of Stacie M Herrera, PsyD
Stacie M Herrera
PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Osprey, FL 34229
I specialize in the therapeutic discovery and evaluation of each student's strengths and weaknesses, including learning disabilities, autism, giftedness (including twice-exceptional) and executive dysfunction.
I am a licensed school psychologist in private practice. I provide psychological evaluations and therapeutic support for youth who are struggling academically, behaviorally and socially. I strongly believe in a holistic approach with the best interest of the child in mind. This includes creating a compassionate environment in which the time and care can be taken to evaluate and support the "whole" child. I own Herrera Psychology, a youth-focused private practice located in Osprey, Florida. We provide individual and group therapy, as well as evaluations. Please visit my website for further information: herrerapsychology.com
I specialize in the therapeutic discovery and evaluation of each student's strengths and weaknesses, including learning disabilities, autism, giftedness (including twice-exceptional) and executive dysfunction.
I am a licensed school psychologist in private practice. I provide psychological evaluations and therapeutic support for youth who are struggling academically, behaviorally and socially. I strongly believe in a holistic approach with the best interest of the child in mind. This includes creating a compassionate environment in which the time and care can be taken to evaluate and support the "whole" child. I own Herrera Psychology, a youth-focused private practice located in Osprey, Florida. We provide individual and group therapy, as well as evaluations. Please visit my website for further information: herrerapsychology.com
(941) 531-9713 View (941) 531-9713
Photo of Christine Rykiel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Rykiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33558
Hi, I am Christine Rykiel, LCSW and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living and working remotely in Florida. I have been a practicing therapist for over 25 years and I find that using a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy has allowed my clients to achieve success in making the changes that they want for their physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. The areas of focus in my practice have included treating clients who present with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, autism spectrum, life transitions, grief, trauma, and perfectionism.
Hi, I am Christine Rykiel, LCSW and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living and working remotely in Florida. I have been a practicing therapist for over 25 years and I find that using a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy has allowed my clients to achieve success in making the changes that they want for their physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. The areas of focus in my practice have included treating clients who present with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, autism spectrum, life transitions, grief, trauma, and perfectionism.
(786) 981-6929 View (786) 981-6929
Photo of Debbie Haughton, LMHC, Counselor
Debbie Haughton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32817
As a parent of a daughter with Autism Spectrum disorder I have helped hundreds of families understand how to live with this disorder.
I want to help individuals who are looking to make a change because they feel stuck and don't know what to do. My specialty is helping people uncover the root to their problems so they can find a solution. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques that help people become aware of how their inner thoughts have power to either hurt them or help them improve their quality of life. I am a counselor who actively engages in helping create a plan and strategy to help improve your life. I will not only listen and ask the deeper questions but I also will try to come up with solutions and methods that get results.
As a parent of a daughter with Autism Spectrum disorder I have helped hundreds of families understand how to live with this disorder.
I want to help individuals who are looking to make a change because they feel stuck and don't know what to do. My specialty is helping people uncover the root to their problems so they can find a solution. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques that help people become aware of how their inner thoughts have power to either hurt them or help them improve their quality of life. I am a counselor who actively engages in helping create a plan and strategy to help improve your life. I will not only listen and ask the deeper questions but I also will try to come up with solutions and methods that get results.
(407) 624-4902 View (407) 624-4902
Photo of David Smith, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
(727) 496-7204 View (727) 496-7204
Photo of Beverly Dabrio, BCBA
Beverly Dabrio
BCBA
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835
I have extensive experience serving children with special needs including autism, ADHD, and OCD. Services are available for an array of behavioral challenges and academic supports, and can be provided in homes, online, office, schools and childcare centers. My specialties include behavior therapy, verbal behavior speech therapy, social-emotional development, social skills training, problematic challenging behaviors, and daily living skills, including feeding therapy and potty training. In addition, I provide consultation and supervision services for families, professionals and agencies.
I have extensive experience serving children with special needs including autism, ADHD, and OCD. Services are available for an array of behavioral challenges and academic supports, and can be provided in homes, online, office, schools and childcare centers. My specialties include behavior therapy, verbal behavior speech therapy, social-emotional development, social skills training, problematic challenging behaviors, and daily living skills, including feeding therapy and potty training. In addition, I provide consultation and supervision services for families, professionals and agencies.
(321) 398-4031 View (321) 398-4031
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Trimble, PhD, NCSP
Dr. Kimberly Trimble
PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647
My name is Dr. Kimmy and as a Licensed School Psychologist, I specialize in the assessment of a child's functioning to help them succeed in school and life! I offer comprehensive evaluations for gifted, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and social-emotional conditions. I also have expertise in Early Childhood/Developmental evaluations for children ages 2-5 years old.
My name is Dr. Kimmy and as a Licensed School Psychologist, I specialize in the assessment of a child's functioning to help them succeed in school and life! I offer comprehensive evaluations for gifted, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and social-emotional conditions. I also have expertise in Early Childhood/Developmental evaluations for children ages 2-5 years old.
(813) 669-3467 View (813) 669-3467
Ivan Fleishman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deland, FL 32720
I have been a licensed Psychologist in private practice for over 40 years providing diagnosis and treatment for mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger's Syndrome and Learning Disorders. I view diagnosis as a collaborative process that ultimately leads to an effective treatment plan which could include individual psychotherapy, parent consultation and training or a referral to another clinician for specialized treatment that would specifically target the challenges associated with the diagnosis.
I have been a licensed Psychologist in private practice for over 40 years providing diagnosis and treatment for mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger's Syndrome and Learning Disorders. I view diagnosis as a collaborative process that ultimately leads to an effective treatment plan which could include individual psychotherapy, parent consultation and training or a referral to another clinician for specialized treatment that would specifically target the challenges associated with the diagnosis.
(386) 736-8337 View (386) 736-8337
Photo of David Martin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Deland, FL 32720  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging....these are unsettling times. It is difficult, to say the least, to manage family stress and connection. Are you struggling to manage your family relationships, with your spouse or domestic partner, children, and other family members? Are your children struggling in school and managing family and social life? Are there additional challenges? ADHD, Autism, or developmental disability?....Have you ever said to yourself, "why me?" or "I wish they would just stop. As a parent, have you ever asked, "what's going to happen to my kid?" Have you ever struggled with trauma or substance abuse, if so, I can help.
Life can be challenging....these are unsettling times. It is difficult, to say the least, to manage family stress and connection. Are you struggling to manage your family relationships, with your spouse or domestic partner, children, and other family members? Are your children struggling in school and managing family and social life? Are there additional challenges? ADHD, Autism, or developmental disability?....Have you ever said to yourself, "why me?" or "I wish they would just stop. As a parent, have you ever asked, "what's going to happen to my kid?" Have you ever struggled with trauma or substance abuse, if so, I can help.
(407) 634-2251 View (407) 634-2251
Photo of Alexis Lynch, LMHC, ASDCS, ADHDCSP, Counselor
Alexis Lynch
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Waitlist for new clients
Specifically, this is seen with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, rejection sensitivity, and self-esteem issues.
There may be times when you feel like it is challenging to fit in with others. You may feel like a triangle living in a square world. Eventually, this masking to fit in can leave us feeling down, burnt out, anxious, and insecure to show others who we are. You may be an empathetic person who finds it difficult to express your own emotions or feel affected easily by others. My approach to our sessions is brought with warm collaboration, support for your needs, and encouragement to become an independent thinker so that you can progress towards a more authentic life.
Specifically, this is seen with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, rejection sensitivity, and self-esteem issues.
There may be times when you feel like it is challenging to fit in with others. You may feel like a triangle living in a square world. Eventually, this masking to fit in can leave us feeling down, burnt out, anxious, and insecure to show others who we are. You may be an empathetic person who finds it difficult to express your own emotions or feel affected easily by others. My approach to our sessions is brought with warm collaboration, support for your needs, and encouragement to become an independent thinker so that you can progress towards a more authentic life.
(813) 710-3890 View (813) 710-3890
Photo of Christine Rykiel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Rykiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Hi, I am Christine Rykiel, LCSW and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living and working remotely in Florida. I have been a practicing therapist for over 25 years and I find that using a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy has allowed my clients to achieve success in making the changes that they want for their physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. The areas of focus in my practice have included treating clients who present with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, autism spectrum, life transitions, grief, trauma, and perfectionism.
Hi, I am Christine Rykiel, LCSW and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living and working remotely in Florida. I have been a practicing therapist for over 25 years and I find that using a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy has allowed my clients to achieve success in making the changes that they want for their physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. The areas of focus in my practice have included treating clients who present with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, autism spectrum, life transitions, grief, trauma, and perfectionism.
(954) 945-8003 View (954) 945-8003
Photo of Kim Rust, PhD, LCSW, Psychologist
Kim Rust
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Deland, FL 32720
I also offer a range of assessment and psychological evaluation services: - Autism and ADHD - IQ testing and gifted - Academic and learning disabilities - Diagnosis of mood, personality pattern, and trauma-related concerns.
I have had a private practice since 2010 in historical downtown DeLand in West Volusia County, Florida. I provide both counseling and assessment services for children, adolescents, and adults. I approach both counseling and assessment as healing processes, helping to answer deep-seated questions that individuals have about themselves or their child. With a passion for supporting neurodiversity, I provide an environment of compassion and support to help individuals and families to learn and thrive.
I also offer a range of assessment and psychological evaluation services: - Autism and ADHD - IQ testing and gifted - Academic and learning disabilities - Diagnosis of mood, personality pattern, and trauma-related concerns.
I have had a private practice since 2010 in historical downtown DeLand in West Volusia County, Florida. I provide both counseling and assessment services for children, adolescents, and adults. I approach both counseling and assessment as healing processes, helping to answer deep-seated questions that individuals have about themselves or their child. With a passion for supporting neurodiversity, I provide an environment of compassion and support to help individuals and families to learn and thrive.
(386) 866-3165 View (386) 866-3165
Photo of Alfred Dean Vonetes - VonCare Inc, PsyD, Psychologist
VonCare Inc
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Mary, FL 32746
I have a wide range of experience and have treated symptoms of depression, AD/HD, school/academic related issues, anxiety, self-esteem problems, psychosis, thought disturbances, sleep related issues, bipolar mood swings, self-harm, impulsivity, abuse, trauma, Autism spectrum, developmental delays, existential issues, and relationship difficulty.
I offer an eclectic approach to a diverse group of populations throughout the entire lifespan; utilizing several types of therapeutic modalities including: cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, psychoeducational counseling, humanistic, existential, relaxation training, sports-exercise psychology, family systems, as well as mindfulness philosophies and techniques. During our initial consultation, information is gathered through the use of various assessment techniques in order to specifically identify problematic areas. During the early formation of the therapeutic relationship we will create goals that can be empirically measured in order to statistically track patient progress and maintain quality assurance.
I have a wide range of experience and have treated symptoms of depression, AD/HD, school/academic related issues, anxiety, self-esteem problems, psychosis, thought disturbances, sleep related issues, bipolar mood swings, self-harm, impulsivity, abuse, trauma, Autism spectrum, developmental delays, existential issues, and relationship difficulty.
I offer an eclectic approach to a diverse group of populations throughout the entire lifespan; utilizing several types of therapeutic modalities including: cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, psychoeducational counseling, humanistic, existential, relaxation training, sports-exercise psychology, family systems, as well as mindfulness philosophies and techniques. During our initial consultation, information is gathered through the use of various assessment techniques in order to specifically identify problematic areas. During the early formation of the therapeutic relationship we will create goals that can be empirically measured in order to statistically track patient progress and maintain quality assurance.
(407) 801-8476 View (407) 801-8476
Photo of W Steven Saunders - Central Florida Psychological Consultants, Inc, PsyD, Psychologist
Central Florida Psychological Consultants, Inc
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711
KEYWORDS: depression help and anxiety therapy, adhd treatment, anxiety disorder, autism therapy, child psychology clinical psychologist, stress, counseling, family therapy, mental health, therapist, family counseling, depression and anxiety, family therapy, autism diagnosis and therapy, adhd, evaluation and treatment, stress management, clinical psychology, pre-employment testing, depression help and anxiety therapy.
I am Dr. Saunders, a Licensed Psychologist and Director of our practice. I have over 20 years of experience providing comprehensive Psychological, Neuropsychological, and Forensic Psychology Services. My office, Central Florida Psychology, has a number of therapists that provide a wide range of services. We can help! Our office provides: * Psychological Evaluations, Counseling and therapy for Children and Adults * Comprehensive Neuro-psychological evaluations, tests and screenings. * Comprehensive forensic evaluations for competency, in criminal cases, and capacity, for civil or guardianship cases. * Parenting evaluations and tests.
KEYWORDS: depression help and anxiety therapy, adhd treatment, anxiety disorder, autism therapy, child psychology clinical psychologist, stress, counseling, family therapy, mental health, therapist, family counseling, depression and anxiety, family therapy, autism diagnosis and therapy, adhd, evaluation and treatment, stress management, clinical psychology, pre-employment testing, depression help and anxiety therapy.
I am Dr. Saunders, a Licensed Psychologist and Director of our practice. I have over 20 years of experience providing comprehensive Psychological, Neuropsychological, and Forensic Psychology Services. My office, Central Florida Psychology, has a number of therapists that provide a wide range of services. We can help! Our office provides: * Psychological Evaluations, Counseling and therapy for Children and Adults * Comprehensive Neuro-psychological evaluations, tests and screenings. * Comprehensive forensic evaluations for competency, in criminal cases, and capacity, for civil or guardianship cases. * Parenting evaluations and tests.
(352) 234-3930 View (352) 234-3930

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.