Autism Therapists in Chevy Chase, MD
![Photo of Laura Place, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65e9ea6d-889d-4728-ae2d-911c2fab7df7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
The really fun part of being a therapist is getting to work with people whose brains all work differently from each other, whether it's because of ADHD, autism, trauma or anything else.
You know just who you are and what you want for your life, but you can't seem to figure out how to manage the day to day challenges of adulting that everyone else seems to breeze through. Or perhaps you've been on a journey just to figure out who you are and even though some of the pieces have come together, you could use a hand figuring out what to do with those pieces. Maybe you know you want and need a change, but you're not sure how to get there-and you've gotten pretty discouraged when you try without getting the results you need. I'm here to be a skilled and experienced guide to help you along any and all of these journeys.
The really fun part of being a therapist is getting to work with people whose brains all work differently from each other, whether it's because of ADHD, autism, trauma or anything else.
You know just who you are and what you want for your life, but you can't seem to figure out how to manage the day to day challenges of adulting that everyone else seems to breeze through. Or perhaps you've been on a journey just to figure out who you are and even though some of the pieces have come together, you could use a hand figuring out what to do with those pieces. Maybe you know you want and need a change, but you're not sure how to get there-and you've gotten pretty discouraged when you try without getting the results you need. I'm here to be a skilled and experienced guide to help you along any and all of these journeys.
![Photo of David O Black, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf6adcd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a pediatric neuropsychologist I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in evaluation of of autism, social, and self regulatory problems as well as learning disabilities, attention disorders, and medical conditions such as epilepsy, traumatic brain injuries, and genetic disorders. I also provide ongoing individual and family consultation and support, including assisting families navigate the transition to adulthood. I also assist with implementation of treatment plans and school placement decisions, attends school meetings (including IEP and due process hearings), and conduct forensic evaluation and expert testimony in cases that involve autism spectrum disorders.
As a pediatric neuropsychologist I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in evaluation of of autism, social, and self regulatory problems as well as learning disabilities, attention disorders, and medical conditions such as epilepsy, traumatic brain injuries, and genetic disorders. I also provide ongoing individual and family consultation and support, including assisting families navigate the transition to adulthood. I also assist with implementation of treatment plans and school placement decisions, attends school meetings (including IEP and due process hearings), and conduct forensic evaluation and expert testimony in cases that involve autism spectrum disorders.
![Photo of Megan M Herbets, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd77841d-9f01-4952-a9f1-98c787000094/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan M Herbets
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
She has experience working with children diagnosed with a range of learning disabilities, Autism and Asperger’s.
New Group Open! We lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
She has experience working with children diagnosed with a range of learning disabilities, Autism and Asperger’s.
New Group Open! We lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
![Photo of Michelle R Scudero, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17cc0cf1-0ef6-47eb-a26b-c6fa0cdd332b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle R Scudero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I support families of children with autism and other special needs.
Accepting New Patients NOW! Are you or a loved one navigating the complexities of chronic illness, facing the challenges of grief, or experiencing the emotional toll of a serious medical condition? Do you find yourself struggling with the unique demands of perinatal or postpartum care, or supporting someone with special needs? These experiences can be incredibly overwhelming, but you don't have to face them without support or guidance. As a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in supporting individuals and families through the toughest moments of life.
I support families of children with autism and other special needs.
Accepting New Patients NOW! Are you or a loved one navigating the complexities of chronic illness, facing the challenges of grief, or experiencing the emotional toll of a serious medical condition? Do you find yourself struggling with the unique demands of perinatal or postpartum care, or supporting someone with special needs? These experiences can be incredibly overwhelming, but you don't have to face them without support or guidance. As a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in supporting individuals and families through the toughest moments of life.
![Photo of Alison Fellowes Comly, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba17d69-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
For children and adults with autism, I am familiar with typing to communicate.
I team with adults, children, and parents to create solutions and awaken aspects of themselves they would like to grow. We work together to heal past pain, strengthen, and to build a fresh start. Our sessions will allow you to take time for yourself to step away from the expectations and pressures of the outside world so that you can feel, see, and build a stronger self. Taking a break from work, school, and life for one or two sessions a week allows for clarity of mind, strengthening of self, and a generation of a new mindset. I will work as your guide in providing you the tools you need to live your life more fully.
For children and adults with autism, I am familiar with typing to communicate.
I team with adults, children, and parents to create solutions and awaken aspects of themselves they would like to grow. We work together to heal past pain, strengthen, and to build a fresh start. Our sessions will allow you to take time for yourself to step away from the expectations and pressures of the outside world so that you can feel, see, and build a stronger self. Taking a break from work, school, and life for one or two sessions a week allows for clarity of mind, strengthening of self, and a generation of a new mindset. I will work as your guide in providing you the tools you need to live your life more fully.
![Photo of Lorrie Ann Ness, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8b88fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Treatment or consultation for issues related to anxiety, depression, AD/HD, academic challenges, autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities is also provided.
In today's hurried world I strive always to listen and never to rush. Here, individuals find a safe place to "unpack" their worries and feel understood. I particularly enjoy working with families to uncover sources of academic difficulty and develop individualized solutions. With young children, parents are always in integral part of the treatment and I frequently consult with other health care professionals and educators in order to create a broad treatment team.
Treatment or consultation for issues related to anxiety, depression, AD/HD, academic challenges, autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities is also provided.
In today's hurried world I strive always to listen and never to rush. Here, individuals find a safe place to "unpack" their worries and feel understood. I particularly enjoy working with families to uncover sources of academic difficulty and develop individualized solutions. With young children, parents are always in integral part of the treatment and I frequently consult with other health care professionals and educators in order to create a broad treatment team.
![Photo of Emily Lamm, MA, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a44fefc9-1cd5-4d1a-adfa-ddbb8c87ff91/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide virtual psychotherapy sessions to adults located in Virginia or Maryland. I am autistic and queer! My main focus is supporting neurodivergence and queer identity, but I'm also passionate about spiritual/religious exploration.
I provide virtual psychotherapy sessions to adults located in Virginia or Maryland. I am autistic and queer! My main focus is supporting neurodivergence and queer identity, but I'm also passionate about spiritual/religious exploration.
![Photo of Ryan O'Leary, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51824d3e-739d-4391-9564-a7a684dccbcd/1/320x400.jpeg)
After-school slots currently available! Hi! I am a licensed graduate therapist working under the direct supervision of Yasmin Meyers, LCSW-C, at Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. If you're reading this, you and or a loved one may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or seeking guidance and support. Whatever your reasons may be, know that you are not alone and that I am here for you! I use a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I believe in your unique qualities and strengths.
After-school slots currently available! Hi! I am a licensed graduate therapist working under the direct supervision of Yasmin Meyers, LCSW-C, at Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. If you're reading this, you and or a loved one may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or seeking guidance and support. Whatever your reasons may be, know that you are not alone and that I am here for you! I use a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I believe in your unique qualities and strengths.
![Photo of Thea Stojanovic, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5de8901b-5955-4ab8-be8e-b1baf5677a5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thea Stojanovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
My biggest passion in life is working with children and teens and my number one goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free space for you, your child, and your family. Seeking help and support can oftentimes feel overwhelming. If you are here, you've accomplished one of the hardest steps and one that you can be proud of. As a client-centered therapist, it is my goal to make the process of therapy feel as comfortable, safe, and empowering as possible. I believe that you, the client, are the expert on your own life, and I am here to help guide and support you through challenges that may arise.
My biggest passion in life is working with children and teens and my number one goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free space for you, your child, and your family. Seeking help and support can oftentimes feel overwhelming. If you are here, you've accomplished one of the hardest steps and one that you can be proud of. As a client-centered therapist, it is my goal to make the process of therapy feel as comfortable, safe, and empowering as possible. I believe that you, the client, are the expert on your own life, and I am here to help guide and support you through challenges that may arise.
![Photo of McKenzie Greenhouse, LCPC, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/213f8868-0068-4bf6-aba3-e0667237bc2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
McKenzie Greenhouse
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Hi I'm Kenzie! One of the bravest things people can do is to reach out for some help, especially in our child, adolescent and young adult years. Growing up can come with all sorts of pressure, confusion, and judgement, leading to anxiety and other strong emotions. Anxiety may cause us to struggle with communication, lash out in anger, act on impulses, get lost in our feelings, avoid tasks, distract us from success, and disconnect us from support systems.
Hi I'm Kenzie! One of the bravest things people can do is to reach out for some help, especially in our child, adolescent and young adult years. Growing up can come with all sorts of pressure, confusion, and judgement, leading to anxiety and other strong emotions. Anxiety may cause us to struggle with communication, lash out in anger, act on impulses, get lost in our feelings, avoid tasks, distract us from success, and disconnect us from support systems.
![Photo of Becca Liberty, MA, MBS, MS, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c71a944-d0b8-41b1-a846-1ea4ec01ef85/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a neurodiversity, gender, and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and tester at Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. I work with individuals of all ages, providing individual, group, and parenting support. Together we will cultivate a safe, nurturing, and supportive therapeutic relationship through which we can collaborate to identify your strengths and vulnerabilities, and explore therapeutic goals and support needs. I will work closely with you to understand your experience of the world, and provide support that is trauma informed, culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and tailored to you.
I am a neurodiversity, gender, and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and tester at Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. I work with individuals of all ages, providing individual, group, and parenting support. Together we will cultivate a safe, nurturing, and supportive therapeutic relationship through which we can collaborate to identify your strengths and vulnerabilities, and explore therapeutic goals and support needs. I will work closely with you to understand your experience of the world, and provide support that is trauma informed, culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and tailored to you.
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![Photo of Charity I White, LPC, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac3ab4b9-71e5-4df7-9b52-f155659ad769/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients Now! You don't have to be positive all the time. It's perfectly okay to feel sad, angry, annoyed, frustrated, scared and anxious. Having feelings doesn't make you a negative person. It makes you human. Have you heard the saying, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”? Well what if you aren’t sure how to make lemonade or even if you will like it? Sometimes we wish to look at the positives of life and respond to things differently but you may not know how to or even why you respond to triggers the way you do. My ideal client is one who is seeking help. That means you.
Accepting New Patients Now! You don't have to be positive all the time. It's perfectly okay to feel sad, angry, annoyed, frustrated, scared and anxious. Having feelings doesn't make you a negative person. It makes you human. Have you heard the saying, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”? Well what if you aren’t sure how to make lemonade or even if you will like it? Sometimes we wish to look at the positives of life and respond to things differently but you may not know how to or even why you respond to triggers the way you do. My ideal client is one who is seeking help. That means you.
![Photo of Angelina Oputa, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6ff1413-8a68-4c74-aaaa-7d6935cfd54b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling frustrated, irritable, and mad at the world? Are you ready to feel at peace, and proud of the way you are living your everyday life? We all have challenges in life, and sometimes additional support is necessary. No matter how small or overwhelming the challenge I approach treatment from a place of non-judgment to identify the root of problems as opposed to offering a temporary fix. During our first session, I will take time to get to know you. I will ask about your past experiences with therapy, and what you want to accomplish during our time together.
Are you feeling frustrated, irritable, and mad at the world? Are you ready to feel at peace, and proud of the way you are living your everyday life? We all have challenges in life, and sometimes additional support is necessary. No matter how small or overwhelming the challenge I approach treatment from a place of non-judgment to identify the root of problems as opposed to offering a temporary fix. During our first session, I will take time to get to know you. I will ask about your past experiences with therapy, and what you want to accomplish during our time together.
![Photo of Hope Harris-Black, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf6acaa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Harris-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I am committed to helping individuals and families. I work collaboratively with clients from a strengths-based approach to empower them and draw out their strengths, so they can grow psychologically, have fulfilling relationships, and reach their potential. I provide a safe, nurturing, supportive, non-judgmental and respectful positive therapeutic environment while also providing structure and focus to identify and achieve goals that foster growth and change.
I am committed to helping individuals and families. I work collaboratively with clients from a strengths-based approach to empower them and draw out their strengths, so they can grow psychologically, have fulfilling relationships, and reach their potential. I provide a safe, nurturing, supportive, non-judgmental and respectful positive therapeutic environment while also providing structure and focus to identify and achieve goals that foster growth and change.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Malesa, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8081acf4-1ffc-42e4-82bb-a4fddf329cea/1/320x400.png)
I am passionate about caring for each individual that comes through my door. I use empirically-grounded treatment modalities, primarily CBT, ensuring we are using treatments that work. I will help you address your goals in a flexible and collaborative way. I work with individuals across the life span, often collaborating with their families and other professionals to optimize treatment. As a director of a large group practice, I am fortunate to work alongside talented and committed clinicians. Should a colleague of mine be better fit than me based on experience, specialty areas, and availability I will offer a personalized match.
I am passionate about caring for each individual that comes through my door. I use empirically-grounded treatment modalities, primarily CBT, ensuring we are using treatments that work. I will help you address your goals in a flexible and collaborative way. I work with individuals across the life span, often collaborating with their families and other professionals to optimize treatment. As a director of a large group practice, I am fortunate to work alongside talented and committed clinicians. Should a colleague of mine be better fit than me based on experience, specialty areas, and availability I will offer a personalized match.
![Photo of Wendy Johnston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffed2c89-3ea1-40f9-8b43-9065d9b3fb44/1/320x400.png)
Wendy Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
Wendy has 20 years of experience in her profession. Throughout this time, Wendy has utilized an eclectic approach when providing therapeutic services with various populations, tailoring services to meet the needs of each individual. She is passionate about treating everyone as special and unique as they are, helping them find the best version of themselves, through providing support, care and empathy each and every day.
Wendy has 20 years of experience in her profession. Throughout this time, Wendy has utilized an eclectic approach when providing therapeutic services with various populations, tailoring services to meet the needs of each individual. She is passionate about treating everyone as special and unique as they are, helping them find the best version of themselves, through providing support, care and empathy each and every day.
![Photo of Aaron Sterling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66911129-3942-494e-bf76-2791f7a8d466/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm a mental health professional who works with clients across all age groups, specializing in 11 -18 yo including parenting and family dynamics. I focus on empathetic care and cognitive learning. I view each client as an individual being with their own drives, while also recognizing they are part of a family and/or community. I understand that all facets of life impact a child’s emotional and physical wellbeing, including but not limited to: school, social life, societal change, and family change. This understanding informs my interactions in therapy.
Hello! I'm a mental health professional who works with clients across all age groups, specializing in 11 -18 yo including parenting and family dynamics. I focus on empathetic care and cognitive learning. I view each client as an individual being with their own drives, while also recognizing they are part of a family and/or community. I understand that all facets of life impact a child’s emotional and physical wellbeing, including but not limited to: school, social life, societal change, and family change. This understanding informs my interactions in therapy.
![Photo of Kelley York, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/804f3925-e0b6-485f-955e-b7287f8d67a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a trauma-informed therapist, I support individuals and families in their healing process through acceptance, accountability, and self-love. I am direct and compassionate in the work that I do. My ultimate aim is to foster belonging, healing, and change - whatever that may look like to you. I enjoy guiding others as they navigate their individualized journeys of self-discovery, empowerment, and finding their inherent worth.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I support individuals and families in their healing process through acceptance, accountability, and self-love. I am direct and compassionate in the work that I do. My ultimate aim is to foster belonging, healing, and change - whatever that may look like to you. I enjoy guiding others as they navigate their individualized journeys of self-discovery, empowerment, and finding their inherent worth.
![Photo of Anna L. Mills, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4f09cfa-797d-4397-a372-8a84c1e33973/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Counselor and Licensed Art Therapist I offer exceptional clinical expereince and unique skills, including traditional verbal psychotherapy and non-verbal art therapy to support my clients. I also have specialized training and expereince using Mindfulness, breathwork and somatic (body awareness) therapies. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, DBT, ACT and Trauma Informed approaches. I work with adult clients age 18+, focusing on life transitions from college to young adulthood, adults who want supportive therapy with life stressors work, family and relationships and older adults in mid-life and beyond.
As a Licensed Counselor and Licensed Art Therapist I offer exceptional clinical expereince and unique skills, including traditional verbal psychotherapy and non-verbal art therapy to support my clients. I also have specialized training and expereince using Mindfulness, breathwork and somatic (body awareness) therapies. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, DBT, ACT and Trauma Informed approaches. I work with adult clients age 18+, focusing on life transitions from college to young adulthood, adults who want supportive therapy with life stressors work, family and relationships and older adults in mid-life and beyond.
![Photo of Julsey Capon Roach, MS, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42948115-0f09-431d-a62a-95156f33be61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julsey Capon Roach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
My greatest passion in life is helping children, adolescents, and young adults navigate their own therapeutic journey. As a neurodiversity affirming therapist, I focus less on problematic behaviors and more on identifying unmet needs and lagging skills. I am strong believer that children are not intentionally giving their parents/teachers/caregivers a hard time, but rather they are having a hard time. As Dr. Ross Green states, "kids do well if they can."
My greatest passion in life is helping children, adolescents, and young adults navigate their own therapeutic journey. As a neurodiversity affirming therapist, I focus less on problematic behaviors and more on identifying unmet needs and lagging skills. I am strong believer that children are not intentionally giving their parents/teachers/caregivers a hard time, but rather they are having a hard time. As Dr. Ross Green states, "kids do well if they can."
See more therapy options for Chevy Chase
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Chevy Chase
- Bethesda
- Burtonsville
- College Park
- Greenbelt
- Hyattsville
- Kensington
- North Bethesda
- Olney
- Potomac
- Rockville
- Silver Spring
- Takoma Park
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.