Autism Therapists in Crofton, MD

Photo of Dr. Laura Groft - Dr. Laura Groft, Ph.D. - Wellshore Psychology, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Groft, Ph.D. - Wellshore Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in difficulties related to ADHD, Autism (and PDA), anxiety, depression, friendships, self-esteem, and life stressors to improve success at school, social skills, and emotional and behavioral regulation.
I know that reaching out for help for you or your child is important and also hard. No parent wants to see their child struggle at school, at home, or with friends and family. I help kids and teens gain tools they need to be successful and help families understand how to better support them. + I offer psychological and therapeutic services to children, teens, young adults, and their families in a supportive and approachable way so they can grow and flourish into their best selves at home, at school, and with others. I approach my work with a strengths-based and culturally-sensitive lens while using evidence-based methods.
I specialize in difficulties related to ADHD, Autism (and PDA), anxiety, depression, friendships, self-esteem, and life stressors to improve success at school, social skills, and emotional and behavioral regulation.
I know that reaching out for help for you or your child is important and also hard. No parent wants to see their child struggle at school, at home, or with friends and family. I help kids and teens gain tools they need to be successful and help families understand how to better support them. + I offer psychological and therapeutic services to children, teens, young adults, and their families in a supportive and approachable way so they can grow and flourish into their best selves at home, at school, and with others. I approach my work with a strengths-based and culturally-sensitive lens while using evidence-based methods.
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Photo of Alison Hamilton, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
I'm a social worker and parent of three daughters, including one with autism.
Life is not for the faint of heart, and its twists can leave us feeling sad, angry, or overwhelmed. I help clients move away from feeling isolated and uncertain to feeling empowered and hopeful.
I'm a social worker and parent of three daughters, including one with autism.
Life is not for the faint of heart, and its twists can leave us feeling sad, angry, or overwhelmed. I help clients move away from feeling isolated and uncertain to feeling empowered and hopeful.
(443) 341-1820 View (443) 341-1820
Photo of Rosalind R Sheppard, PhD, Psychologist
Rosalind R Sheppard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
We all have unproductive thoughts and feelings from time to time, and the thought of therapy can feel overwhelming. The key is to talk to someone who can listen and help guide you to positive solutions. As a psychologist, I strive to form supportive trusting relationships with my clients that are nonjudgmental.
We all have unproductive thoughts and feelings from time to time, and the thought of therapy can feel overwhelming. The key is to talk to someone who can listen and help guide you to positive solutions. As a psychologist, I strive to form supportive trusting relationships with my clients that are nonjudgmental.
(240) 222-1178 View (240) 222-1178
Photo of Evan Jarboe, BA, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Evan Jarboe
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
My clinical training has been with adolescents and adults towards psychological improvement, the treatment of anxiety, depression, adjustment, trauma/PTSD, neurodevelopmental, and behavioral disorders. These experiences included thorough recommendations post-assessment, assisting individuals in their integration/acculturation into the United States, providing culturally-sensitive treatment and care, assisting active duty military members and veterans with their transition into civilian life, along with short and long-term psychotherapy as a continuation of care and intervention.
My clinical training has been with adolescents and adults towards psychological improvement, the treatment of anxiety, depression, adjustment, trauma/PTSD, neurodevelopmental, and behavioral disorders. These experiences included thorough recommendations post-assessment, assisting individuals in their integration/acculturation into the United States, providing culturally-sensitive treatment and care, assisting active duty military members and veterans with their transition into civilian life, along with short and long-term psychotherapy as a continuation of care and intervention.
(443) 696-8543 View (443) 696-8543
Photo of Jordan Bernard Laws, SSP, NCSP, Psychological Associate
Jordan Bernard Laws
Psychological Associate, SSP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
I am a certified School Psychologist and Psychology Associate with several years of experience supporting youth, adults, and their families. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges in their lives in order to reach their full potential.
I am a certified School Psychologist and Psychology Associate with several years of experience supporting youth, adults, and their families. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges in their lives in order to reach their full potential.
(443) 541-7855 x704 View (443) 541-7855 x704
Photo of Amira Boylston, PhD, NCSP, Psychological Associate
Amira Boylston
Psychological Associate, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and absolutely exhausting. Stressful life events can lead us to develop unhelpful thoughts and uncomfortable feelings. I'm very passionate about helping individuals overcome barriers in their lives to achieve their goals and thrive. In therapy, I strive to create a nonjudgemental and calm space where we can work together on your healing journey.
Life can be overwhelming and absolutely exhausting. Stressful life events can lead us to develop unhelpful thoughts and uncomfortable feelings. I'm very passionate about helping individuals overcome barriers in their lives to achieve their goals and thrive. In therapy, I strive to create a nonjudgemental and calm space where we can work together on your healing journey.
(410) 348-7957 View (410) 348-7957
Photo of Rachel Cooper, MS, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Rachel Cooper
Psychological Associate, MS, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
I am happy to accompany you on this journey towards making a positive change in your life. As a former military service member and spouse, I aim to assist you in developing resilience and healing from the stress and trauma associated with the military lifestyle, as well as other demanding work-life balance challenges common in the DMV area.
I am happy to accompany you on this journey towards making a positive change in your life. As a former military service member and spouse, I aim to assist you in developing resilience and healing from the stress and trauma associated with the military lifestyle, as well as other demanding work-life balance challenges common in the DMV area.
(443) 937-7089 View (443) 937-7089
Photo of Dr. Lorine Margeson, PsyD, LPA, Psychological Associate
Dr. Lorine Margeson
Psychological Associate, PsyD, LPA
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
I’m thrilled to be a part of your journey toward better mental and emotional well-being! Your well-being is my top priority and I’m here to listen, support, and guide you through your challenges. I understand that seeking help can be a courageous step, and I’m committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly discuss your concerns.
I’m thrilled to be a part of your journey toward better mental and emotional well-being! Your well-being is my top priority and I’m here to listen, support, and guide you through your challenges. I understand that seeking help can be a courageous step, and I’m committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly discuss your concerns.
(410) 457-3298 View (410) 457-3298
Photo of Angela West, MS, BCBA, LBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angela West
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
I am Board Certified and Licensed as a Behavior Analyst in both Virginia and Maryland. I have a passion for helping children, adults, and families meet challenges head-on and lead functional, fulfilling lives. I advocate for a “whole family” approach to therapy to ensure that parents, siblings, and relatives are involved in and positively impacted by the therapies I employ.
I am Board Certified and Licensed as a Behavior Analyst in both Virginia and Maryland. I have a passion for helping children, adults, and families meet challenges head-on and lead functional, fulfilling lives. I advocate for a “whole family” approach to therapy to ensure that parents, siblings, and relatives are involved in and positively impacted by the therapies I employ.
(443) 971-7349 View (443) 971-7349
Kimberly M Brooks, Ph.D. & Associates, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Hello and thank you for considering my practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in the assessment and treatment of children birth-5 years of age. In addition, I provide treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression. Although I have a specialty in this area I am also trained to provide treatment for adults with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life transition issues, etc.
Hello and thank you for considering my practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in the assessment and treatment of children birth-5 years of age. In addition, I provide treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression. Although I have a specialty in this area I am also trained to provide treatment for adults with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life transition issues, etc.
(301) 979-7830 View (301) 979-7830
Photo of David Kellner, MDiv, MA, LCPC
David Kellner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Henri Nouwen says, "real care means the willingness to help each other in making our brokenness into the gateway to joy." Perhaps it is the broken pieces of your life that have brought you to this page - broken relationships, broken dreams or just feeling broken. In this you are not alone, but it is my firm conviction that the broken pieces that are strewn about you can become the very material needed in creating wholeness and peace.
Henri Nouwen says, "real care means the willingness to help each other in making our brokenness into the gateway to joy." Perhaps it is the broken pieces of your life that have brought you to this page - broken relationships, broken dreams or just feeling broken. In this you are not alone, but it is my firm conviction that the broken pieces that are strewn about you can become the very material needed in creating wholeness and peace.
(443) 205-4399 View (443) 205-4399
Photo of Jane Ezimorah - JMJ Healthcare Services, LLC
JMJ Healthcare Services, LLC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Here at JMJ Healthcare Services, we offer a multiple range of psychotherapy and counseling services with over 6 licensed clinical therapists. We give our patients a variety of options to choose from with specialists that will address their direct needs and concerns. We also offer medication management along with psychotherapy, a multiple range of mental health testing, all in one location! That is why we are your #1 stop for all your mental health needs.
Here at JMJ Healthcare Services, we offer a multiple range of psychotherapy and counseling services with over 6 licensed clinical therapists. We give our patients a variety of options to choose from with specialists that will address their direct needs and concerns. We also offer medication management along with psychotherapy, a multiple range of mental health testing, all in one location! That is why we are your #1 stop for all your mental health needs.
(240) 650-5625 View (240) 650-5625
Photo of Eryn Kruger, PhD, Psychologist
Eryn Kruger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is dedicated to helping others have the life of their choosing. As a part of my training, I completed a doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Currently, at the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center, I work with children, adolescents, and their families to navigate a range of problems. Problems that I treat and evaluate include depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment problems, anger/aggression, trauma, and family difficulties. I take a collaborative and individualized approach in the treatment process and value input from all members.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is dedicated to helping others have the life of their choosing. As a part of my training, I completed a doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Currently, at the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center, I work with children, adolescents, and their families to navigate a range of problems. Problems that I treat and evaluate include depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment problems, anger/aggression, trauma, and family difficulties. I take a collaborative and individualized approach in the treatment process and value input from all members.
(410) 267-4936 View (410) 267-4936
Photo of Shawn W. Hales - Pivot Child Psychological Resources LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Pivot Child Psychological Resources LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
•• Accepting New Patients •• We specialize in helping children who struggle with anxiety, depression, or school concerns with counseling, psychiatry, and psychological testing. Do you think your child may have a learning disability or mental health disorder? Are you struggling to find the right medication to reduce your child's symptoms? Are your child's emotions so extreme that it worries you? If you answered yes to any of these questions then I know we can help you!
•• Accepting New Patients •• We specialize in helping children who struggle with anxiety, depression, or school concerns with counseling, psychiatry, and psychological testing. Do you think your child may have a learning disability or mental health disorder? Are you struggling to find the right medication to reduce your child's symptoms? Are your child's emotions so extreme that it worries you? If you answered yes to any of these questions then I know we can help you!
(410) 505-7500 View (410) 505-7500

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nora Padison, MA, LCPC
Nora Padison
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
I provide neurodiversity-affirming Autism and ADHD evaluations for adults in the state of Maryland as well as individual therapy. Some folks may come to me through self-identification and are simply looking to affirm what they already know about themselves, while others may be exploring neurodivergence for the first time. I am ready to meet you wherever you are in your self-discovery journey. My process is based on the client’s needs, but a typical evaluation includes gathering of social and developmental history, completion of self-report questionnaires, and the use of several diagnostic tools.
I provide neurodiversity-affirming Autism and ADHD evaluations for adults in the state of Maryland as well as individual therapy. Some folks may come to me through self-identification and are simply looking to affirm what they already know about themselves, while others may be exploring neurodivergence for the first time. I am ready to meet you wherever you are in your self-discovery journey. My process is based on the client’s needs, but a typical evaluation includes gathering of social and developmental history, completion of self-report questionnaires, and the use of several diagnostic tools.
(410) 498-8256 View (410) 498-8256
Photo of Kory (Chase) Andreas, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kory (Chase) Andreas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146  (Online Only)
I provide Autism assessments for teens and adults, with a specific focus in the area of Autism in women and gender nonconforming clients.
As a clinical Social Worker for over 18 years, I come from a long line of “colorful,” Neurodivergent brains. I have been drawn to the passionate, the quirky, and the uniquely wired since I can remember. Connection is at the heart of my work with all clients. I believe that the magic behind therapy does not stem from any particular therapeutic modality, but instead from feeling understood and hopeful. I have an extensive background and a passion for working with Autistic clients. I am an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist. Therapy should be a safe place for clients to unmask and work towards positive change.
I provide Autism assessments for teens and adults, with a specific focus in the area of Autism in women and gender nonconforming clients.
As a clinical Social Worker for over 18 years, I come from a long line of “colorful,” Neurodivergent brains. I have been drawn to the passionate, the quirky, and the uniquely wired since I can remember. Connection is at the heart of my work with all clients. I believe that the magic behind therapy does not stem from any particular therapeutic modality, but instead from feeling understood and hopeful. I have an extensive background and a passion for working with Autistic clients. I am an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist. Therapy should be a safe place for clients to unmask and work towards positive change.
(240) 540-5300 View (240) 540-5300
Photo of Samantha Offutt Hyali - Children at Play, LLC, MS, OTRL, Occupational Therapist
Children at Play, LLC
Occupational Therapist, MS, OTRL
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
We specialize in working with children with sensory processing concerns, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, developmental disabilities, dyspraxia, neurological disorders, and behavioral disorders.
Children at Play, LLC offers pediatric occupational therapy services for children with a variety of needs. We offer FREE consultations and screenings to help you determine if we are the best fit for your family.
We specialize in working with children with sensory processing concerns, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, developmental disabilities, dyspraxia, neurological disorders, and behavioral disorders.
Children at Play, LLC offers pediatric occupational therapy services for children with a variety of needs. We offer FREE consultations and screenings to help you determine if we are the best fit for your family.
(443) 218-6515 View (443) 218-6515
Photo of Dr. Rachael Arowolo - Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations), PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
(301) 945-7160 View (301) 945-7160
Photo of Miracle Mapp, MA, CAS, NCSP, Psychological Associate
Miracle Mapp
Psychological Associate, MA, CAS, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
I am experienced in working with a variety of age groups, specifically ages 3-21, with difficulties related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges.
Navigating challenges for you or your child is not an easy feat. I know that it can be difficult reaching out for help or finding the necessary resources to overcome certain struggles. I use a warm, relaxed approach to help children and teens thrive while guiding families in supporting them. I offer psychological and therapeutic services to children, teens and their families in a positive and empathetic way so they can feel comfortable and build the necessary skills to use in various settings. I focus on using a non-judgemental and comprehensive approach, including expanding upon one's strengths and using evidence-based techniques.
I am experienced in working with a variety of age groups, specifically ages 3-21, with difficulties related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges.
Navigating challenges for you or your child is not an easy feat. I know that it can be difficult reaching out for help or finding the necessary resources to overcome certain struggles. I use a warm, relaxed approach to help children and teens thrive while guiding families in supporting them. I offer psychological and therapeutic services to children, teens and their families in a positive and empathetic way so they can feel comfortable and build the necessary skills to use in various settings. I focus on using a non-judgemental and comprehensive approach, including expanding upon one's strengths and using evidence-based techniques.
(443) 647-9087 View (443) 647-9087
Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Ascolese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
(240) 660-4048 View (240) 660-4048
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.