Autism Therapists in Dacula, GA

Photo of Andrea O Clifton, LCSW, EdS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea O Clifton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdS
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019  (Online Only)
Special needs specifically include but not specific to autism, aspergers, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, attention deficits, emotional behavior disabilities.
"Healing from the Inside Out" My clients are motivated to find solutions and actively participate in their healing. I work with children, adolescence, and teens who have special needs. Their families are an integral part of that healing. Seven years of experience working with children with severe autism, developmental disabilities and emotional behavioral disabilities in the public school system in the most restrictive environment. I offer support, guidance, behavioral solutions, intervention strategies in the classroom and home. Supervision for other professionals for obtaining their licensure. I also work with adults in transition, who suffer from chronic pain, depression anxiety
Special needs specifically include but not specific to autism, aspergers, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, attention deficits, emotional behavior disabilities.
"Healing from the Inside Out" My clients are motivated to find solutions and actively participate in their healing. I work with children, adolescence, and teens who have special needs. Their families are an integral part of that healing. Seven years of experience working with children with severe autism, developmental disabilities and emotional behavioral disabilities in the public school system in the most restrictive environment. I offer support, guidance, behavioral solutions, intervention strategies in the classroom and home. Supervision for other professionals for obtaining their licensure. I also work with adults in transition, who suffer from chronic pain, depression anxiety
(770) 504-4398 View (770) 504-4398
Photo of Sarah Pratts, MS
Sarah Pratts
MS
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019
Some of the concerns Sarah has worked with include: codependency behavior, stress and anxiety, trauma, anger management, addictions, depression, self-harm, Autism, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Bipolar Mood Disorder, and PTSD.
Sarah believes that each client is the author of his or her own life experiences, and has the capability of maneuvering and pushing forward through circumstances in life. She recognizes it can be difficult and scary learning and implementing the tools needed to accomplish fears and worries. "It's like exercising a new muscle. It may hurt and get sore by working-out, but the muscle grows stronger the more effort you put into working on it." She has extensively researched the concept of empathy to help clients work through their trauma to develop secure attachment styles as well as understanding perspectives and co-dependency actions.
Some of the concerns Sarah has worked with include: codependency behavior, stress and anxiety, trauma, anger management, addictions, depression, self-harm, Autism, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Bipolar Mood Disorder, and PTSD.
Sarah believes that each client is the author of his or her own life experiences, and has the capability of maneuvering and pushing forward through circumstances in life. She recognizes it can be difficult and scary learning and implementing the tools needed to accomplish fears and worries. "It's like exercising a new muscle. It may hurt and get sore by working-out, but the muscle grows stronger the more effort you put into working on it." She has extensively researched the concept of empathy to help clients work through their trauma to develop secure attachment styles as well as understanding perspectives and co-dependency actions.
(470) 431-1623 View (470) 431-1623
Photo of Lisa M Bell, MA, LAPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa M Bell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dacula, GA 30019
I work with individuals to help them overcome feelings of anxiety and depression, grief, relationship issues, mother-daughter relationship challenges, and life transitions. I utilize various techniques in sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, inner child work, support, and self-confidence building. Together, we will work to establish healthy patterns and coping strategies.
I work with individuals to help them overcome feelings of anxiety and depression, grief, relationship issues, mother-daughter relationship challenges, and life transitions. I utilize various techniques in sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, inner child work, support, and self-confidence building. Together, we will work to establish healthy patterns and coping strategies.
(678) 205-0838 View (678) 205-0838
Photo of Dr. Chuck Cancilla, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chuck Cancilla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019
As a Christian, my faith offers a strong compass for all I do. As a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, and veteran with 6 degrees in psychology and 27 years of experience (20 with Gwinnett County Public Schools), this compass has been pivotal in helping others. I specialize in two areas: (1) Psychological or "psycho-educational" evaluations to enhance success in school, college, or career path; and (2) A highly specialized therapy-based martial arts program for children that decades of closely supervised research have found effective for improving attention, self-control, and classroom performance (see "Groups" below).
As a Christian, my faith offers a strong compass for all I do. As a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, and veteran with 6 degrees in psychology and 27 years of experience (20 with Gwinnett County Public Schools), this compass has been pivotal in helping others. I specialize in two areas: (1) Psychological or "psycho-educational" evaluations to enhance success in school, college, or career path; and (2) A highly specialized therapy-based martial arts program for children that decades of closely supervised research have found effective for improving attention, self-control, and classroom performance (see "Groups" below).
(470) 210-3130 View (470) 210-3130
Photo of David Cogdell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Cogdell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019  (Online Only)
For so many of us, we often get mired in the pieces of our daily schedule rather than getting to actually enjoy life on a day to day basis. The reasons we get caught up in the minutiae can vary from relationship woes, stress at work, or past trauma but they are all challenges I can help you with. I will work with you on the journey to helping you find peace and being free from the weight of the things that are holding you back from living your life to its fullest. Our therapy space is a safe place, where you can allow yourself to be open and express yourself however you need to in order to be understood without fear of judgement.
For so many of us, we often get mired in the pieces of our daily schedule rather than getting to actually enjoy life on a day to day basis. The reasons we get caught up in the minutiae can vary from relationship woes, stress at work, or past trauma but they are all challenges I can help you with. I will work with you on the journey to helping you find peace and being free from the weight of the things that are holding you back from living your life to its fullest. Our therapy space is a safe place, where you can allow yourself to be open and express yourself however you need to in order to be understood without fear of judgement.
(470) 323-8769 View (470) 323-8769
Photo of Cathy Arrington, LPC, MFT, NCC, CPCS, MACC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Arrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT, NCC, CPCS, MACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dacula, GA 30019
You are courageous and willing to make a positive change! I specialize in working with couples, children, adolescents, and families. We may combine many treatment methods, including solutions and balancing of social, spiritual, environmental, and physical aspects of functioning. By developing specific treatment goals, we have a greater chance of successful outcomes. Also, I'm a Sondermind Provider for additional resources!
You are courageous and willing to make a positive change! I specialize in working with couples, children, adolescents, and families. We may combine many treatment methods, including solutions and balancing of social, spiritual, environmental, and physical aspects of functioning. By developing specific treatment goals, we have a greater chance of successful outcomes. Also, I'm a Sondermind Provider for additional resources!
(678) 304-8533 View (678) 304-8533
Photo of Amberly Ellis, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amberly Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019
Hi there! My name is Amberly Ellis and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. I approach counseling from an integrative, attachment-based, and interpersonal neurobiology lens, recognizing the link between behavior, the nervous system, and interpersonal connection. I believe the behaviors children and teens display are merely their way of communicating a need - a need to connect, a need to be known, a need to be heard, and a need for felt safety. It is my goal to not just help my clients “fix the problem,” but to help build understanding, connection, and a victorious mind.
Hi there! My name is Amberly Ellis and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. I approach counseling from an integrative, attachment-based, and interpersonal neurobiology lens, recognizing the link between behavior, the nervous system, and interpersonal connection. I believe the behaviors children and teens display are merely their way of communicating a need - a need to connect, a need to be known, a need to be heard, and a need for felt safety. It is my goal to not just help my clients “fix the problem,” but to help build understanding, connection, and a victorious mind.
(678) 647-7228 View (678) 647-7228

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tanisha Group Okonji - Aspire Therapy Group, MEd, BCBA
Aspire Therapy Group
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Loganville, GA 30052
Aspire Therapy Group offers individualized treatment for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our ABA therapy services in Georgia focus on helping these children grow into thriving adults by improving their communication, social, functional, and other vital skills. Our specialty extends to individuals from birth to age 21. Our team of board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) will develop custom programs to address each child’s needs. With our dedication and collaborative approach, we will guide everyone under our care to shine and succeed in their respective walks of life.
Aspire Therapy Group offers individualized treatment for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our ABA therapy services in Georgia focus on helping these children grow into thriving adults by improving their communication, social, functional, and other vital skills. Our specialty extends to individuals from birth to age 21. Our team of board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) will develop custom programs to address each child’s needs. With our dedication and collaborative approach, we will guide everyone under our care to shine and succeed in their respective walks of life.
(678) 946-2791 View (678) 946-2791
Photo of Tangrill D Varner, LCSW, BCBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tangrill D Varner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCBA
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
I have over 20 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, teens , young adults and adults with ADHD, Autism, Adoption, Depression, Conduct Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder as well as Sexual, Physical, Emotional Abuse and Family Conflict/Divorce.
I have over 20 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, teens , young adults and adults with ADHD, Autism, Adoption, Depression, Conduct Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder as well as Sexual, Physical, Emotional Abuse and Family Conflict/Divorce.
(404) 549-6265 View (404) 549-6265
Photo of Janie Thompson, LPC, Counselor
Janie Thompson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
My name is Janie Thompson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dalton, Georgia working statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults with an array of issues such as but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic approach to other modalities. My style and approach have been a good fit for teens, young adults, and older adults. Those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, marital issues, self-esteem, Autism, PTSD, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, and life transitional issues.
My name is Janie Thompson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dalton, Georgia working statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults with an array of issues such as but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic approach to other modalities. My style and approach have been a good fit for teens, young adults, and older adults. Those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, marital issues, self-esteem, Autism, PTSD, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, and life transitional issues.
(470) 730-6976 View (470) 730-6976
Photo of Julie Shortridge, MA, LSW, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Shortridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grayson, GA 30017
I specialize in working with children age 4+, pre-teens, teens, young adults, adults & families, in areas such as ADHD, anger, behavioral issues, self-esteem, bullying, self-injury, autism, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, relationships, parenting, divorce, blended families, identity issues, enabling, addiction, life transitions & Christian Counseling.
Congratulations ... on taking the next step in finding healing for you &/or your family! Life can often present new opportunities & struggles that we would not have anticipated. I would be honored to assist you as you walk through what often feels like a valley or difficult times in your life. I have learned that what often appears to be obstacles, are stepping stones of healing in our life’s journey. I look forward to meeting with you to see how I may assist you &/or your family. Sincerely, Julie : )
I specialize in working with children age 4+, pre-teens, teens, young adults, adults & families, in areas such as ADHD, anger, behavioral issues, self-esteem, bullying, self-injury, autism, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, relationships, parenting, divorce, blended families, identity issues, enabling, addiction, life transitions & Christian Counseling.
Congratulations ... on taking the next step in finding healing for you &/or your family! Life can often present new opportunities & struggles that we would not have anticipated. I would be honored to assist you as you walk through what often feels like a valley or difficult times in your life. I have learned that what often appears to be obstacles, are stepping stones of healing in our life’s journey. I look forward to meeting with you to see how I may assist you &/or your family. Sincerely, Julie : )
(678) 696-0938 View (678) 696-0938
Photo of Samantha Jackson, MSW
Samantha Jackson
MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loganville, GA 30052
I also hold a certification as a behavior therapist where I work with children with autism and other specified behavioral challenges.
My name is Samantha Jackson I am a mother, veteran, and therapist. I have been a social worker for over 10 years and I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I love what I do I consider myself a change agent.
I also hold a certification as a behavior therapist where I work with children with autism and other specified behavioral challenges.
My name is Samantha Jackson I am a mother, veteran, and therapist. I have been a social worker for over 10 years and I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I love what I do I consider myself a change agent.
(678) 263-7891 View (678) 263-7891
Photo of Kitrina Bush, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kitrina Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, GA 30620
Additionally, I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Family Relational Conflict.
I believe in creating a new therapy for each client and that you are the expert of your life. By building a trusting therapeutic relationship with you, I want to help guide you through the challenges life can bring. I utilize an integrative, person-centered approach to therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Art Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and several other therapeutic modalities. My clinical experience has given me the skills to efficiently treat ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Complicated Grief and Loss, Anxiety Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
Additionally, I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Family Relational Conflict.
I believe in creating a new therapy for each client and that you are the expert of your life. By building a trusting therapeutic relationship with you, I want to help guide you through the challenges life can bring. I utilize an integrative, person-centered approach to therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Art Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and several other therapeutic modalities. My clinical experience has given me the skills to efficiently treat ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Complicated Grief and Loss, Anxiety Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
(706) 397-4207 View (706) 397-4207
Kids Club ABA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst, MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
At Kids Club ABA, we are redefining the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children. Our commitment is to provide individualized, high-quality care while creating a happy and fun environment that fosters growth, development, and success. We are not just another ABA company; we are a community dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children and their families.
At Kids Club ABA, we are redefining the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children. Our commitment is to provide individualized, high-quality care while creating a happy and fun environment that fosters growth, development, and success. We are not just another ABA company; we are a community dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children and their families.
(470) 888-8209 View (470) 888-8209
Photo of Andrea Duncanson, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Duncanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046  (Online Only)
Hey there, I am here to be a listener, a supporter when necessary, and above all to assist you in finding and maintaining what works best for you to be your best self.
Hey there, I am here to be a listener, a supporter when necessary, and above all to assist you in finding and maintaining what works best for you to be your best self.
(404) 795-7244 View (404) 795-7244
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs In - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045  (Online Only)
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
(470) 236-5317 x5 View (470) 236-5317 x5
Photo of Lauren Keel Shinn, MS, LPC Intern
Lauren Keel Shinn
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30519
Motherhood comes with unparalleled joy and often intense doubt, guilt, and stress that can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression. Moms frequently carry the mental load of the family, keeping track of dates, details, and everyone's needs... except their own. Self-care is critical, but easily falls by the wayside. I. SEE. YOU. In my counseling office, you have a sacred and safe space to process emotions, be encouraged, discuss parenting challenges, develop new coping strategies, and create organizational systems that will help things run more smoothly. Your needs and goals define how we use our time together.
Motherhood comes with unparalleled joy and often intense doubt, guilt, and stress that can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression. Moms frequently carry the mental load of the family, keeping track of dates, details, and everyone's needs... except their own. Self-care is critical, but easily falls by the wayside. I. SEE. YOU. In my counseling office, you have a sacred and safe space to process emotions, be encouraged, discuss parenting challenges, develop new coping strategies, and create organizational systems that will help things run more smoothly. Your needs and goals define how we use our time together.
(470) 221-1744 View (470) 221-1744
Photo of Lawanda Harmon, PhD, MS, Pst-Doc
Lawanda Harmon
PhD, MS, Pst-Doc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Dr. Lawanda Harmon has been actively working in the field of mental health since 2010. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling obtained from Walden University, she began working at Community Friendship Inc. as an individual and group therapist. Lawanda continued to pursue her education at the doctoral level, obtaining a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Walden University. During her practicum and internship field experiences, she gained extensive training in Cognitive and Behavioral techniques as well as in Emotional, Personality, and Trauma focused interventions at Atlanta Center for Family Wellness in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Lawanda Harmon has been actively working in the field of mental health since 2010. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling obtained from Walden University, she began working at Community Friendship Inc. as an individual and group therapist. Lawanda continued to pursue her education at the doctoral level, obtaining a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Walden University. During her practicum and internship field experiences, she gained extensive training in Cognitive and Behavioral techniques as well as in Emotional, Personality, and Trauma focused interventions at Atlanta Center for Family Wellness in Atlanta, Georgia.
(770) 282-8731 View (770) 282-8731
Photo of Elaine Moss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30519
I help highly intelligent over-achievers trade anxiety for confidence without feeling like a failure. My clients struggle like you do. Despite being smart, successful, and funnier than a viral meme, life is hard. When they first come in, they feel trapped by their image. They like being thought of as organized and successful, but inside they feel a total fake. When they stop to think about it, they realize they don't even feel like themselves anymore... it's like they've morphed into what other people expect them to be. Their greatest fear is people seeing the real person behind their mask and rejecting them.
I help highly intelligent over-achievers trade anxiety for confidence without feeling like a failure. My clients struggle like you do. Despite being smart, successful, and funnier than a viral meme, life is hard. When they first come in, they feel trapped by their image. They like being thought of as organized and successful, but inside they feel a total fake. When they stop to think about it, they realize they don't even feel like themselves anymore... it's like they've morphed into what other people expect them to be. Their greatest fear is people seeing the real person behind their mask and rejecting them.
(678) 364-7346 View (678) 364-7346
Photo of Nicolette Shackelford-Martin, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicolette Shackelford-Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
As a eclectic therapist, I provide services that best meet the clients current needs. My goal is to meet you where you are and work with you to get where you want to go. I work with young adults, adolescents, and children as young as preschool age that are having difficulty adjusting in the classroom environment, home environment and/or any life transition. I understand that the most effective way to assist the client is to also work with the family; therefore, parenting and family sessions may be encouraged. Congratulations on taking the first step to do the work.
As a eclectic therapist, I provide services that best meet the clients current needs. My goal is to meet you where you are and work with you to get where you want to go. I work with young adults, adolescents, and children as young as preschool age that are having difficulty adjusting in the classroom environment, home environment and/or any life transition. I understand that the most effective way to assist the client is to also work with the family; therefore, parenting and family sessions may be encouraged. Congratulations on taking the first step to do the work.
(404) 586-4267 View (404) 586-4267
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.