Photo of Dainery M Fuentes - Dainery M. Fuentes Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Dainery M. Fuentes Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813
Dr. Dainery Fuentes is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their parents. In addition, she also treats individual adults. She assists in the process of exploring and building the inner strength to allow for the growth that is necessary to transition successfully through the stages of life. Dr. Fuentes completed her Ph.D. at Yeshiva University, NYC. During her 35 years of practice, she has additionally trained in a number of areas including psychoanalytic therapy at the Cincinnati Institute. She has directed numerous psychiatric facilities and doctoral training programs.
Dr. Dainery Fuentes is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their parents. In addition, she also treats individual adults. She assists in the process of exploring and building the inner strength to allow for the growth that is necessary to transition successfully through the stages of life. Dr. Fuentes completed her Ph.D. at Yeshiva University, NYC. During her 35 years of practice, she has additionally trained in a number of areas including psychoanalytic therapy at the Cincinnati Institute. She has directed numerous psychiatric facilities and doctoral training programs.
(863) 313-1183 View (863) 313-1183
Photo of Danielle Luz Matias, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Danielle Luz Matias
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Polk City, FL 33868
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in a mental health for over a decade and it's my greatest passion in life.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in a mental health for over a decade and it's my greatest passion in life.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristina J. Risola - Kristina Risola , MA, CRC, NBC-HWC, RMHCI
Kristina Risola
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, CRC, NBC-HWC, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34606  (Online Only)
Receiving my autism diagnosis at 39 reshaped my self-understanding and deepened my commitment to guiding others.
I know what it is like to look like you are holding it all together - you put on the mask and do all the things, but inside, you are barely holding on. Stressed out, burnt out, paralyzed with anxiety. Overwhelmed with life, relationships, and responsibilities. Stuck in survival mode, trying to keep those big feelings at bay. Asking for help feels impossible, but you are doing it. You’re ready to reconnect to your authentic self, leave behind old patterns, break generational cycles, and you know you have what it takes - you just need someone in your corner to help you get there. If this sounds like you, I’m so ready to join you!
Receiving my autism diagnosis at 39 reshaped my self-understanding and deepened my commitment to guiding others.
I know what it is like to look like you are holding it all together - you put on the mask and do all the things, but inside, you are barely holding on. Stressed out, burnt out, paralyzed with anxiety. Overwhelmed with life, relationships, and responsibilities. Stuck in survival mode, trying to keep those big feelings at bay. Asking for help feels impossible, but you are doing it. You’re ready to reconnect to your authentic self, leave behind old patterns, break generational cycles, and you know you have what it takes - you just need someone in your corner to help you get there. If this sounds like you, I’m so ready to join you!
(352) 776-0048 View (352) 776-0048
Photo of Natasha Ramnauth, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha Ramnauth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
I work with various issues including self-esteem, equity issues, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, guilt and shame, stress, relationships, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma & life transitions.
Feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Frustrated with your loved ones? If you are ready to make changes, I'm here to help. I look at the anxiety and depression symptoms but also the underlying issues that cause these concerns. I focus on identifying strengths and building healthy coping skills to manage trauma triggers and life stressors. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I teach skills for clearer communication and focus on creating meaningful interactions with others. I use an integrative approach to therapy that draws on many different techniques and explores the underlying beliefs that keep you stuck.
I work with various issues including self-esteem, equity issues, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, guilt and shame, stress, relationships, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma & life transitions.
Feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Frustrated with your loved ones? If you are ready to make changes, I'm here to help. I look at the anxiety and depression symptoms but also the underlying issues that cause these concerns. I focus on identifying strengths and building healthy coping skills to manage trauma triggers and life stressors. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I teach skills for clearer communication and focus on creating meaningful interactions with others. I use an integrative approach to therapy that draws on many different techniques and explores the underlying beliefs that keep you stuck.
(407) 205-9429 View (407) 205-9429
Photo of Dr. Monica Lake - Dr. Lake & Associates, PsyD, CAS, MS, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Lake & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, CAS, MS, NCSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
Hi! Are you looking for a practice that is collaborative and supportive? We are your neighborhood clinicians providing therapy and testing services that result in practical and highly effective outcomes. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of challenge emotions, attention difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, bipolar, learning concerns (dyslexia, dyscalculia, etc.), behavioral problems, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), relationship problems, giftedness, and others. Our services are available online and in person.
Hi! Are you looking for a practice that is collaborative and supportive? We are your neighborhood clinicians providing therapy and testing services that result in practical and highly effective outcomes. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of challenge emotions, attention difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, bipolar, learning concerns (dyslexia, dyscalculia, etc.), behavioral problems, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), relationship problems, giftedness, and others. Our services are available online and in person.
(813) 603-2308 View (813) 603-2308
Photo of Diane Kimball - Kimball Counseling Associates, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Diane Kimball - Kimball Counseling Associates
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
I specialize in childhood abuse in children and adults, and treat issues related to sexual/ physical/emotional abuse, domestic violence, attachment injury, neglect and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I believe that our past hurts and traumatic experiences impact the quality of our daily lives, often resulting in depression, anxiety, trust issues, troubled or dissatisfying relationships, poor work or school performance, and negative self-esteem. I work with clients to resolve past or present trauma, including problematic symptomology and dissociation stemming from complex trauma. I will walk with you to help facilitate opportunities to increase awareness and insight into your life, process problematic issues and augment your strengths , which can be a pathway of hope and positive change.
I specialize in childhood abuse in children and adults, and treat issues related to sexual/ physical/emotional abuse, domestic violence, attachment injury, neglect and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I believe that our past hurts and traumatic experiences impact the quality of our daily lives, often resulting in depression, anxiety, trust issues, troubled or dissatisfying relationships, poor work or school performance, and negative self-esteem. I work with clients to resolve past or present trauma, including problematic symptomology and dissociation stemming from complex trauma. I will walk with you to help facilitate opportunities to increase awareness and insight into your life, process problematic issues and augment your strengths , which can be a pathway of hope and positive change.
(407) 378-3748 View (407) 378-3748
Photo of Faith Elie - Tink Tank Animate -Autism Art and Animation Studio, LPC, MA, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tink Tank Animate -Autism Art and Animation Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tink Tank Animate is a nonprofit, autism center that exists to support neurodiverse artists, from beginners to advanced, as they exercise and develop their cognitive skills through story creation, as well as guide them through the creative and production process to complete a project(s) of their own. We want artists to have fun and feel empowered to explore and express themselves. Artists will do better in a safe environment that encourages creativity and imaginative play and has supportive instructors that can recognize their strengths. Expressive arts therapy offered. We do NOT offer ABA Applied Behavioral Analysis Services.
Tink Tank Animate is a nonprofit, autism center that exists to support neurodiverse artists, from beginners to advanced, as they exercise and develop their cognitive skills through story creation, as well as guide them through the creative and production process to complete a project(s) of their own. We want artists to have fun and feel empowered to explore and express themselves. Artists will do better in a safe environment that encourages creativity and imaginative play and has supportive instructors that can recognize their strengths. Expressive arts therapy offered. We do NOT offer ABA Applied Behavioral Analysis Services.
(313) 930-8628 View (313) 930-8628
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
Spring Hill, FL 34611
My specialty is Autism, Asperger's & all unique ways of being.
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.
My specialty is Autism, Asperger's & all unique ways of being.
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 Stacy N Perin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy N Perin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Longwood, FL 32779
Areas of my work with clients include anxiety, depression, coaching, partner/marriage and family relationship issues, autism, and school-based challenges.
Are you an adult, child, or adolescent who is feeling overwhelmed, unfulfilled, or lost in some way? Are you looking for support in navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or interpersonal relationships? Are you struggling with your partner, school demands, work-life balance, or recovering and moving forward after a difficult or traumatic experience? My work with clients involves taking a holistic approach to optimize mental health.
Areas of my work with clients include anxiety, depression, coaching, partner/marriage and family relationship issues, autism, and school-based challenges.
Are you an adult, child, or adolescent who is feeling overwhelmed, unfulfilled, or lost in some way? Are you looking for support in navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or interpersonal relationships? Are you struggling with your partner, school demands, work-life balance, or recovering and moving forward after a difficult or traumatic experience? My work with clients involves taking a holistic approach to optimize mental health.
(321) 461-2359 View (321) 461-2359
Photo of Faith Elie - Somatic Psychotherapy Michigan—Faith Elie, LPC, MA, MA, SEP, NARM, IFS-L3, Counselor
Somatic Psychotherapy Michigan—Faith Elie
Counselor, LPC, MA, MA, SEP, NARM, IFS-L3
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Clinical Director at Tink Tank Animate an autism center focused on expressive arts.
The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are -Joseph Campbell. Together, we can really hone in on what it is you are wanting for yourself and finding a path forward, that best suites you. Often, the work is getting back in touch with your Self in a deeper way—like re-calibrating your inner compass. My understanding of counseling comes from holistic, somatic and trauma-informed approaches that incorporate mind, body, and soul such as Jungian, IFS and transpersonal. Sex therapy is also a very important part of the work I do. Check out my website blog to learn more details about how I work
Clinical Director at Tink Tank Animate an autism center focused on expressive arts.
The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are -Joseph Campbell. Together, we can really hone in on what it is you are wanting for yourself and finding a path forward, that best suites you. Often, the work is getting back in touch with your Self in a deeper way—like re-calibrating your inner compass. My understanding of counseling comes from holistic, somatic and trauma-informed approaches that incorporate mind, body, and soul such as Jungian, IFS and transpersonal. Sex therapy is also a very important part of the work I do. Check out my website blog to learn more details about how I work
View
Photo of Iris Delia Machado Acevedo, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Iris Delia Machado Acevedo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34743  (Online Only)
Meet our therapists - I am a mental Health Trauma Counselor bilingual (English and Spanish) with specialty in social work and mental health since 1986. I enjoy my time working with adults, teens and children's. We include the population 5 years or less. Certified by IBCCES as Autism Specialist. Most of my clients are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, adoption issues, poor parenting skills, ADHD, traumas, marital problems or adjustment. This is what I have do all my life and what I want to continue doing for the rest of my life.
Meet our therapists - I am a mental Health Trauma Counselor bilingual (English and Spanish) with specialty in social work and mental health since 1986. I enjoy my time working with adults, teens and children's. We include the population 5 years or less. Certified by IBCCES as Autism Specialist. Most of my clients are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, adoption issues, poor parenting skills, ADHD, traumas, marital problems or adjustment. This is what I have do all my life and what I want to continue doing for the rest of my life.
(321) 351-4431 View (321) 351-4431
Photo of Ivelisse Alvarez - ParenTeen Connecting Consulting, MEd
ParenTeen Connecting Consulting
MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
In addition to Counseling, I have served as an Advocate for children and adolescent with special needs including: Gifted, ADHD, Autism, PDD, Asperger's Disorder, and Learning Disabilities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Is your child or adolescent experiencing behavioral difficulties, academic failure, performance anxiety, mood swings, or is a victim of bullying? I specialize in CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS and families experiencing a wide variety of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relational problems. In a genuine, comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I help clients use their special unique qualities to find solutions to problems, enhance their relationships, build confidence, and develop a healthy sense of self.
In addition to Counseling, I have served as an Advocate for children and adolescent with special needs including: Gifted, ADHD, Autism, PDD, Asperger's Disorder, and Learning Disabilities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Is your child or adolescent experiencing behavioral difficulties, academic failure, performance anxiety, mood swings, or is a victim of bullying? I specialize in CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS and families experiencing a wide variety of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relational problems. In a genuine, comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I help clients use their special unique qualities to find solutions to problems, enhance their relationships, build confidence, and develop a healthy sense of self.
(407) 901-3488 View (407) 901-3488
Photo of Rebecca Thipsingh - Allies in Wellness, LLC, LCSW, TCT, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allies in Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
Our therapists each have unique specializations including: gender, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma / PTSD, veterans, substance use / dual diagnosis treatment, mood disorders, self-harming behavior, self-esteem, racial trauma, life transitions, repairing relationships, strengthening families, parenting, attachment and adoption / foster care, autism.
Allies in Wellness believes each day is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples / partners, and families who seek clarity, balance, insight, and self-acceptance. We're proud to offer specialized and individualized therapeutic services that are affirming to all and made accessible to many in a private practice group setting. We provide a supportive space to sort through the things that are impacting your daily life, the life of your children, and those you love.
Our therapists each have unique specializations including: gender, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma / PTSD, veterans, substance use / dual diagnosis treatment, mood disorders, self-harming behavior, self-esteem, racial trauma, life transitions, repairing relationships, strengthening families, parenting, attachment and adoption / foster care, autism.
Allies in Wellness believes each day is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples / partners, and families who seek clarity, balance, insight, and self-acceptance. We're proud to offer specialized and individualized therapeutic services that are affirming to all and made accessible to many in a private practice group setting. We provide a supportive space to sort through the things that are impacting your daily life, the life of your children, and those you love.
(321) 248-1846 View (321) 248-1846
Photo of Alexis Lynch, LMHC, ASDCS, ADHDCSP, Counselor
Alexis Lynch
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33603
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 Dr. Leisha Tompkins, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Leisha Tompkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34473  (Online Only)
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed by stress, social situations, or mood fluctuations? Neurodivergent and need someone who understands? My approach involves a felt sense of safety and connection, including evidence-based therapies such as IFS, CBT, and therapy through a Polyvagal (trauma) Theory lens. An experienced clinical psychologist offering therapy & testing, I offer expertise on neurodivergence as well as pressures affecting all kids & young adults. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, ASD, emotional, or other difficulties. Psychologist accepting new clients for online therapy, kids through young adults. Email me today!
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed by stress, social situations, or mood fluctuations? Neurodivergent and need someone who understands? My approach involves a felt sense of safety and connection, including evidence-based therapies such as IFS, CBT, and therapy through a Polyvagal (trauma) Theory lens. An experienced clinical psychologist offering therapy & testing, I offer expertise on neurodivergence as well as pressures affecting all kids & young adults. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, ASD, emotional, or other difficulties. Psychologist accepting new clients for online therapy, kids through young adults. Email me today!
(352) 677-2444 View (352) 677-2444
Photo of Nikki Conomos, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Nikki Conomos
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Casselberry, FL 32707
Are you overwhelmed? Life is hard lately. Many factors contribute to this such as unfair systems in place, generational trauma and patterns, and many feeling stuck in survival mode. Do you want to feel more joy and peace in your life? In search of learning to process thoughts and feelings, as well as feel seen? Maybe you feel angry, anxious, depressed, or confused. We are collectively more stressed than ever! I accept my clients unconditionally and always meet you where you are at. I specifically cater sessions to each and every one of my clients’ needs.
Are you overwhelmed? Life is hard lately. Many factors contribute to this such as unfair systems in place, generational trauma and patterns, and many feeling stuck in survival mode. Do you want to feel more joy and peace in your life? In search of learning to process thoughts and feelings, as well as feel seen? Maybe you feel angry, anxious, depressed, or confused. We are collectively more stressed than ever! I accept my clients unconditionally and always meet you where you are at. I specifically cater sessions to each and every one of my clients’ needs.
(321) 384-5434 View (321) 384-5434
Photo of Chantal MacDonald - Arm's Open Counseling , LMHC
Arm's Open Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious? I believe mental health is about living in the present, healing the past and identifying and moving forward. I’m deeply committed to supporting the well-being of all my clients. Together, we will explore ways to improve relationships and to achieve your full life’s potential.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious? I believe mental health is about living in the present, healing the past and identifying and moving forward. I’m deeply committed to supporting the well-being of all my clients. Together, we will explore ways to improve relationships and to achieve your full life’s potential.
(813) 285-4128 View (813) 285-4128
Photo of Bryanna Imo, MA, RMHCI
Bryanna Imo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Life can be a beautiful yet challenging adventure, sometimes presenting unexpected detours and difficult terrain. As your therapist, I'm here to offer compassionate guidance and support every step of the way. In my practice, you'll find a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and authentically. Whether you're navigating daily challenges, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper personal growth, we'll work together to untangle the threads that might be keeping you from living your most fulfilling life.
Life can be a beautiful yet challenging adventure, sometimes presenting unexpected detours and difficult terrain. As your therapist, I'm here to offer compassionate guidance and support every step of the way. In my practice, you'll find a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and authentically. Whether you're navigating daily challenges, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper personal growth, we'll work together to untangle the threads that might be keeping you from living your most fulfilling life.
(407) 906-1109 View (407) 906-1109
Photo of Treshonda Baucom, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Treshonda Baucom
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711
It's almost been a year since Covid and you are still feeling stressed, overwhelmed, tired, and irritable. These feelings have probably been accompanied by physical symptoms such as chest pain, crying, shaking, and tense muscles. You're tired of feeling this way and have tried to return to your "normal" self but not seems to work. You thought it was just a phase and you would adapt to the many changes that 2020 has brought. This has affected areas of your life such as work, friendships, relationships, and academics. If this seems familiar then you may be experiencing anxiety.
It's almost been a year since Covid and you are still feeling stressed, overwhelmed, tired, and irritable. These feelings have probably been accompanied by physical symptoms such as chest pain, crying, shaking, and tense muscles. You're tired of feeling this way and have tried to return to your "normal" self but not seems to work. You thought it was just a phase and you would adapt to the many changes that 2020 has brought. This has affected areas of your life such as work, friendships, relationships, and academics. If this seems familiar then you may be experiencing anxiety.
(352) 600-4341 View (352) 600-4341
Photo of Lindsey Stenborg - Family Wellness Counseling, LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Wellness Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Debary, FL 32713
Our practice focuses on helping you and your family rise through support and encouragement. Everyone has inner strengths that are valuable tools for their growth and journey. Our goal is to help support you or your family member as you discover and use these strengths. Our hope is that through providing a safe space focused on empathy and compassion; you or you someone you love can learn to express emotions effectively and increase knowledge and use of coping and communication tools. These skills can help anyone begin their journey of happiness, healing and wellness.
Our practice focuses on helping you and your family rise through support and encouragement. Everyone has inner strengths that are valuable tools for their growth and journey. Our goal is to help support you or your family member as you discover and use these strengths. Our hope is that through providing a safe space focused on empathy and compassion; you or you someone you love can learn to express emotions effectively and increase knowledge and use of coping and communication tools. These skills can help anyone begin their journey of happiness, healing and wellness.
(321) 978-0779 View (321) 978-0779

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.