Photo of Emely Suazo - STEPS, LLC, BCBA
STEPS, LLC
BCBA
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
We specialize in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, RAD, ODD, ADHD, ADD and other diagnosis.
Behavioral and developmental needs need not limit the lives of the individuals diagnosed with them or their families. At our center, we provide behavioral support to individuals and their families so they can ultimately live their best life. Our comprehensive program helps identify each individuals needs and formulate a plan that will ultimately help them reach those behavioral and developmental goals.
We specialize in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, RAD, ODD, ADHD, ADD and other diagnosis.
Behavioral and developmental needs need not limit the lives of the individuals diagnosed with them or their families. At our center, we provide behavioral support to individuals and their families so they can ultimately live their best life. Our comprehensive program helps identify each individuals needs and formulate a plan that will ultimately help them reach those behavioral and developmental goals.
(808) 353-6124 View (808) 353-6124
Photo of Dr. Marija Colic, PhD, BCBA
Dr. Marija Colic
PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734
As a professor at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, I am actively involved in research, staying current with best practices in autism and developmental therapy.
Aloha! Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and play-based interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, blending behavioral principles with insights from developmental psychology to support meaningful growth. I work with children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities who may face challenges with communication, social skills, or daily tasks. I also support parents in understanding strategies to support their children.
As a professor at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, I am actively involved in research, staying current with best practices in autism and developmental therapy.
Aloha! Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and play-based interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, blending behavioral principles with insights from developmental psychology to support meaningful growth. I work with children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities who may face challenges with communication, social skills, or daily tasks. I also support parents in understanding strategies to support their children.
(808) 645-4970 View (808) 645-4970
Photo of Meriah Nichols, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meriah Nichols
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734
Meriah is a person-centered counselor who believes in the power of listening. She believes that you know what’s best for yourself; she can help you figure out some pieces and process through therapeutic tools. Meriah specializes in working with people who have an intersection with disability (- autism, neurodiverse, Down syndrome, deaf, blind, intellectual, or developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, physical disability, chronic illness, mental illness). “Intersection” with disability being either an acquired disability, disabled through life, a child or loved one with a disability or a recently acquired disability.
Meriah is a person-centered counselor who believes in the power of listening. She believes that you know what’s best for yourself; she can help you figure out some pieces and process through therapeutic tools. Meriah specializes in working with people who have an intersection with disability (- autism, neurodiverse, Down syndrome, deaf, blind, intellectual, or developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, physical disability, chronic illness, mental illness). “Intersection” with disability being either an acquired disability, disabled through life, a child or loved one with a disability or a recently acquired disability.
(808) 563-4191 View (808) 563-4191
Photo of Carmenne Anne Chiasson, PhD, Psychologist
Carmenne Anne Chiasson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
I specialize in working with adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD grief and with children of all ages treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism and pervasive developmental delay.
I believe that all people are equal and deserve respect regardless of your history or your circumstances. I will collaborate with you towards positive change. I treat most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. I treat clients of all ages and offer individual, couple, family and play therapy and Neurofeedback. I completed my APA approved internship at Kapiolani Counseling Center for women and children and I have previously worked as the child and adolescent psychologist at Kahi Mohala. I was the lead psychologist at my last position, providing consultation for child, adolescent and adult therapists.
I specialize in working with adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD grief and with children of all ages treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism and pervasive developmental delay.
I believe that all people are equal and deserve respect regardless of your history or your circumstances. I will collaborate with you towards positive change. I treat most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. I treat clients of all ages and offer individual, couple, family and play therapy and Neurofeedback. I completed my APA approved internship at Kapiolani Counseling Center for women and children and I have previously worked as the child and adolescent psychologist at Kahi Mohala. I was the lead psychologist at my last position, providing consultation for child, adolescent and adult therapists.
(808) 419-3414 View (808) 419-3414
Photo of Amy Yang - Xplor Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Yang - Xplor Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734
When life gets too heavy, it can seem like no amount of support will help. But, that's exactly when the right kind of help can make the difference. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bereavement, or a difficult transition, I believe you have the power to change within. While working with me, you'll have a supportive and safe environment to share your stories and your experiences in a supportive, non-judgmental space. I have extensive experience working with children and adults, including military families and families with extraordinary children diagnosed with autism.
When life gets too heavy, it can seem like no amount of support will help. But, that's exactly when the right kind of help can make the difference. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bereavement, or a difficult transition, I believe you have the power to change within. While working with me, you'll have a supportive and safe environment to share your stories and your experiences in a supportive, non-judgmental space. I have extensive experience working with children and adults, including military families and families with extraordinary children diagnosed with autism.
(808) 435-4813 View (808) 435-4813
Photo of Gabrielle Toloza, MS, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabrielle Toloza
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dr. Gabrielle Toloza. I am a Virtually-based Psychologist licensed in the states of Hawaii & Oklahoma. I've been a helping professional 20+ years collaborating with adults, families, children and couples. I aim to see each person as the unique individual they are and utilize their strengths to help improve upon their areas of challenge. I believe strongly that every person has the power to change in any direction they choose and that therapy is about introspection, growth, self-awareness and connection. My goal is to provide knowledge, insights and most of all, a nonjudgemental space for you to accomplish your goals.
Hello, I'm Dr. Gabrielle Toloza. I am a Virtually-based Psychologist licensed in the states of Hawaii & Oklahoma. I've been a helping professional 20+ years collaborating with adults, families, children and couples. I aim to see each person as the unique individual they are and utilize their strengths to help improve upon their areas of challenge. I believe strongly that every person has the power to change in any direction they choose and that therapy is about introspection, growth, self-awareness and connection. My goal is to provide knowledge, insights and most of all, a nonjudgemental space for you to accomplish your goals.
(808) 470-4314 View (808) 470-4314
Photo of Carmenne Anne Chiasson - Island Counseling and Neurofeedback, LLC, Inc, PhD, Psychologist
Island Counseling and Neurofeedback, LLC, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
I have beginning and advanced certification for NeurOptimal Neurofeedback. I offer in person sessions as well as rentals. I am happy to help you learn about this dynamical neurofeedback process.
I have beginning and advanced certification for NeurOptimal Neurofeedback. I offer in person sessions as well as rentals. I am happy to help you learn about this dynamical neurofeedback process.
(808) 793-6193 View (808) 793-6193
Photo of Jessica L Federowicz, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica L Federowicz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Aloha- thank you for your interest and for taking this first step towards finding a therapist that fits your needs! I hold a license as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of Hawaii. It is always my primary goal to offer you or your loved one a safe space without judgment to process your experience. I have worked as both a licensed Behavior Analyst and a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Hawaii before completing my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Hawaii School of Professional Psychology at Chaminade University.
Aloha- thank you for your interest and for taking this first step towards finding a therapist that fits your needs! I hold a license as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of Hawaii. It is always my primary goal to offer you or your loved one a safe space without judgment to process your experience. I have worked as both a licensed Behavior Analyst and a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Hawaii before completing my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Hawaii School of Professional Psychology at Chaminade University.
(716) 271-2773 View (716) 271-2773
Photo of Claire Xu, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Xu
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
My goal is to help those seeking support and guidance on their journey towards healing and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with everyday stressors, navigating challenging life events, or coping with anxiety and depression, I'm here to provide a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. I prioritize fostering an approachable, non-judgmental therapeutic alliance regardless of a person’s background, gender expression, or sexual identity. As your therapist, I would do my very best to ensure you feel understood and help you learn how to advocate for your needs outside of our sessions.
My goal is to help those seeking support and guidance on their journey towards healing and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with everyday stressors, navigating challenging life events, or coping with anxiety and depression, I'm here to provide a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. I prioritize fostering an approachable, non-judgmental therapeutic alliance regardless of a person’s background, gender expression, or sexual identity. As your therapist, I would do my very best to ensure you feel understood and help you learn how to advocate for your needs outside of our sessions.
View
Photo of Thomas Kirkham, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thomas Kirkham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Tom is a Ph.D. student in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health at Saybrook University. Tom also received his MA in Humanistic and Transpersonal Psychology. Tom wrote his master's thesis on the therapeutic use of the circular art form known as mandalas. Tom earned his BA in Human Development at Prescott College. There he worked with the Prescott Unified School District to create recreation-based behavioral interventions for 8-10 year-olds diagnosed with ADHD.
Tom is a Ph.D. student in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health at Saybrook University. Tom also received his MA in Humanistic and Transpersonal Psychology. Tom wrote his master's thesis on the therapeutic use of the circular art form known as mandalas. Tom earned his BA in Human Development at Prescott College. There he worked with the Prescott Unified School District to create recreation-based behavioral interventions for 8-10 year-olds diagnosed with ADHD.
(808) 419-3569 View (808) 419-3569
Photo of Sophia Bullard, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sophia Bullard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Sophia Bullard studied at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, receiving her Bachelors of Science in Psychology in 2021 and her Masters of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling in May of 2022. Sophia is currently working towards the LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) credential in the state of Hawaii. Additionally, she has future goals of becoming a Registered Play Therapist and Certified Yoga Therapist. Sophia’s clinical experience stems from working as a counseling intern at various public elementary and middle schools in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Sophia Bullard studied at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, receiving her Bachelors of Science in Psychology in 2021 and her Masters of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling in May of 2022. Sophia is currently working towards the LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) credential in the state of Hawaii. Additionally, she has future goals of becoming a Registered Play Therapist and Certified Yoga Therapist. Sophia’s clinical experience stems from working as a counseling intern at various public elementary and middle schools in the Greater Philadelphia area.
(808) 758-5390 View (808) 758-5390
Photo of Robert Storey, EdD, LP, Psychologist
Robert Storey
Psychologist, EdD, LP
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Dr. Robert Storey obtained his B.A. in Liberal Arts at Washington and Lee University as a Philosophy major, minoring in Sociology. He obtained a Masters in Guidance and Psychological Services at Springfield College and was awarded his Doctorate in Educational Psychology ( Ed.D) while studying at American International University. He began his clinical internship in 1986 under the auspices of distinguished Dr. Frank Sacco, a protege of Karl Menninger with tutelage by Anna Freud. Dr. Sacco came from a long lineage of psychodynamic pioneers and Dr. Storey was privileged to be part of this tradition of groundbreaking psychologists.
Dr. Robert Storey obtained his B.A. in Liberal Arts at Washington and Lee University as a Philosophy major, minoring in Sociology. He obtained a Masters in Guidance and Psychological Services at Springfield College and was awarded his Doctorate in Educational Psychology ( Ed.D) while studying at American International University. He began his clinical internship in 1986 under the auspices of distinguished Dr. Frank Sacco, a protege of Karl Menninger with tutelage by Anna Freud. Dr. Sacco came from a long lineage of psychodynamic pioneers and Dr. Storey was privileged to be part of this tradition of groundbreaking psychologists.
(808) 855-6844 View (808) 855-6844
Photo of Grace Holbrook, MSW, LSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Holbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Grace's focus in treatment is to be client centered and to help support you in accomplishing your goals in therapy. Her goal is to create a safe environment for you to process past or current difficulties, stressors or traumas. Grace has a background working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, attachment disorders, personality disorders, and have experienced abuse or neglect.
Grace's focus in treatment is to be client centered and to help support you in accomplishing your goals in therapy. Her goal is to create a safe environment for you to process past or current difficulties, stressors or traumas. Grace has a background working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, attachment disorders, personality disorders, and have experienced abuse or neglect.
(808) 435-5714 View (808) 435-5714
Photo of Emily K Powers, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily K Powers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Emily is passionate about helping individuals heal from trauma, cope with anxiety, manage mood disorders, and navigate life transitions. As a counseling professional, she is dedicated to creating a safe space for clients of all backgrounds to explore challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. Emily earned her BA from St. Edward’s University in 2020 and holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from the University of Hawai’i at Hilo.
Emily is passionate about helping individuals heal from trauma, cope with anxiety, manage mood disorders, and navigate life transitions. As a counseling professional, she is dedicated to creating a safe space for clients of all backgrounds to explore challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. Emily earned her BA from St. Edward’s University in 2020 and holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from the University of Hawai’i at Hilo.
(808) 746-7514 View (808) 746-7514
Photo of Camille Bourcier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camille Bourcier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734
Camille is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist and behavioral specialist who received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Mental and Behavioral Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. With over ten years experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families in outdoor, educational and therapeutic settings she brings a dynamic style, utilizing a strength-based approach. Camille has experience working with military families and local behavioral health organizations.
Camille is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist and behavioral specialist who received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Mental and Behavioral Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. With over ten years experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families in outdoor, educational and therapeutic settings she brings a dynamic style, utilizing a strength-based approach. Camille has experience working with military families and local behavioral health organizations.
(808) 650-5936 View (808) 650-5936
Photo of Christin DeCoito, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christin DeCoito
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Christin DeCoito, was born and raised in Hilo where she grew passionate about helping others in her community. She graduated from Kamehameha Schools Hawaii, she later received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UH Hilo. She ventured a little ways out of Hilo, where she currently lives on the Hamakua coast with her loving family and growing two little boys. Christins experience stems from working directly with students as a school based behavioral health specialist since 2017.
Christin DeCoito, was born and raised in Hilo where she grew passionate about helping others in her community. She graduated from Kamehameha Schools Hawaii, she later received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UH Hilo. She ventured a little ways out of Hilo, where she currently lives on the Hamakua coast with her loving family and growing two little boys. Christins experience stems from working directly with students as a school based behavioral health specialist since 2017.
(808) 353-5265 View (808) 353-5265
Photo of Tyra Gardner, MS, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tyra Gardner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Tyra S. Gardner is a Psychotherapist and CEO of At A Moments Notice, LLC. Tyra is a passionate scholar-practitioner in the field of mental health, who divides her time between clinical practice, training and business consulting. In her clinical practice, she delivers cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based treatments to adults and adolescent clients with a range of emotional behavioral and adjustment problems including anger management, anxiety, stress, depression and relationship issues.
Tyra S. Gardner is a Psychotherapist and CEO of At A Moments Notice, LLC. Tyra is a passionate scholar-practitioner in the field of mental health, who divides her time between clinical practice, training and business consulting. In her clinical practice, she delivers cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based treatments to adults and adolescent clients with a range of emotional behavioral and adjustment problems including anger management, anxiety, stress, depression and relationship issues.
(808) 400-7049 View (808) 400-7049
Photo of Shawna Ueyama, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Shawna Ueyama
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about bringing evidence-based treatments to clinical settings. I provide treatments for OCD, Tourette/tic disorders, anxiety, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT for OCD, Habit Reversal Training (HRT)/Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) for tics, as well as ABA and social skills training using the PEERS model for individuals with autism. For children, I also emphasize parent training to equip parents to support their child's therapy goals.
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about bringing evidence-based treatments to clinical settings. I provide treatments for OCD, Tourette/tic disorders, anxiety, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT for OCD, Habit Reversal Training (HRT)/Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) for tics, as well as ABA and social skills training using the PEERS model for individuals with autism. For children, I also emphasize parent training to equip parents to support their child's therapy goals.
(808) 745-1212 View (808) 745-1212
Photo of Leena Mohapatra, PhD, Psychologist
Leena Mohapatra
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Not accepting new clients
, ADHD and Autism), and learning concerns.
My ideal clients seek science-based and culturally appropriate assessments to understand their cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges. As a clinical neuropsychologist, I assess thinking skills in those diagnosed with a medical condition and/or those who have learning, attention, and behavioral challenges. I conduct comprehensive assessments that are specific to my client's challenges and provide tailored recommendations for schools/colleges, medical teams, and third-party sources. I believe in understanding each client's story and tailoring my assessment and recommendations to meet a client's specific needs.
, ADHD and Autism), and learning concerns.
My ideal clients seek science-based and culturally appropriate assessments to understand their cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges. As a clinical neuropsychologist, I assess thinking skills in those diagnosed with a medical condition and/or those who have learning, attention, and behavioral challenges. I conduct comprehensive assessments that are specific to my client's challenges and provide tailored recommendations for schools/colleges, medical teams, and third-party sources. I believe in understanding each client's story and tailoring my assessment and recommendations to meet a client's specific needs.
(808) 746-3269 View (808) 746-3269
Photo of Bernie Strand, LCSW, CSAC, CGP, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernie Strand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, CGP, ACSW
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
Not accepting new clients
Aloha. Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am currently full and not available to accept new clients until after March, 2025.
Aloha. Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am currently full and not available to accept new clients until after March, 2025.
(808) 670-3076 View (808) 670-3076

See more therapy options for Kailua

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.