Autism Therapists in Gaithersburg, MD
![Photo of Kathryn Gargett-Jones, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff114d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.
I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.
![Photo of Azhia-Lin Thompson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6880e756-23df-4685-944f-5ab51c51cc67/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
![Photo of Robert Anthony Binger - Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f3e03e6-264e-4420-b7dd-0fcd8b1f72c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex and/or autism. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex and/or autism. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
![Photo of Brenden Stinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fddfa078-5316-486e-81cd-a94c5d8a601e/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
![Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62a0008d-4f20-48a5-b554-c45e73e6fb85/2/320x400.png)
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
![Photo of Emma Sholtis, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cebf5ca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical interests include neurodivergence (including ADHD, Autism spectrum, and learning differences), identity development, chronic health conditions, anxiety and depression.
My passion is helping young adults and college students navigate the exciting yet challenging journey of creating an independent, successful, and authentic life. A life where you feel confident in your choices and excited about what comes next. Whether you’re seeking to find that path, build confidence, manage stress, or just want to learn more about who you are, I’m here to support you through that process.
My clinical interests include neurodivergence (including ADHD, Autism spectrum, and learning differences), identity development, chronic health conditions, anxiety and depression.
My passion is helping young adults and college students navigate the exciting yet challenging journey of creating an independent, successful, and authentic life. A life where you feel confident in your choices and excited about what comes next. Whether you’re seeking to find that path, build confidence, manage stress, or just want to learn more about who you are, I’m here to support you through that process.
![Photo of Deborah A Williams, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e09bc6f-fee3-441f-9190-3086c2ddebc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
These assessments include ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, Guardianship, Adoption readiness, and diagnostic clarification.
Whether through therapy or assessment, I strive to excel in my work with each client. A caring relationship and a safe space to be open are the cornerstones to a successful therapeutic experience. I look to provide that tailored experience to each one of my clients, and hope to work with you to aid in your growth and development. My goal is to help you reach your best self, and to improve your happiness.
These assessments include ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, Guardianship, Adoption readiness, and diagnostic clarification.
Whether through therapy or assessment, I strive to excel in my work with each client. A caring relationship and a safe space to be open are the cornerstones to a successful therapeutic experience. I look to provide that tailored experience to each one of my clients, and hope to work with you to aid in your growth and development. My goal is to help you reach your best self, and to improve your happiness.
![Photo of Ellen Dye, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b31175e8-d4e0-4139-b241-121687263ec3/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also have a background in treating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism with low support needs, adoption, and "failure to launch" young adults.
I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Duke University and have over thirty years of clinical experience working with adults, children, and families. My postgraduate training is in psychoanalytic, family, and cognitive-behavior therapy. My practice is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed. I have a broad range of experience and treat clients coping with both common life stresses and with major mental illnesses. I enjoy working with complex family situations and with individuals who have not met with success in prior treatment.
I also have a background in treating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism with low support needs, adoption, and "failure to launch" young adults.
I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Duke University and have over thirty years of clinical experience working with adults, children, and families. My postgraduate training is in psychoanalytic, family, and cognitive-behavior therapy. My practice is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed. I have a broad range of experience and treat clients coping with both common life stresses and with major mental illnesses. I enjoy working with complex family situations and with individuals who have not met with success in prior treatment.
![Photo of Alison Dorsky, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498e6983-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Dorsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I often combine visual, video, and interactive social communication strategies in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when working with Autism and similar diagnoses.
I have 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health and school- based settings. As an Autism specialist, I work to increase the understanding of challenges unique to Autism and the ability of individuals and families to cope in positive and productive ways. My work with children and adolescents often includes advocacy and collaboration with schools and other relevant treatment and service providers. I aim to build mutual support and understanding across home, academic, and/or vocational environments.
I often combine visual, video, and interactive social communication strategies in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when working with Autism and similar diagnoses.
I have 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health and school- based settings. As an Autism specialist, I work to increase the understanding of challenges unique to Autism and the ability of individuals and families to cope in positive and productive ways. My work with children and adolescents often includes advocacy and collaboration with schools and other relevant treatment and service providers. I aim to build mutual support and understanding across home, academic, and/or vocational environments.
![Photo of Michael A Bluestone, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f6f250a-293f-4f9c-8c3e-8b038dc21f08/2/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approach is based upon the principles of positive behavior supports, cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma informed care.
My therapeutic approach is based upon the principles of positive behavior supports, cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma informed care.
![Photo of Erin Nkele, MA, LCPC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f6bd626-8465-4575-a304-8248c6ef832e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Nkele
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20879 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am the Owner and Co-Founder of Melanated Wellness, LLC. Our mission places particular emphasis on better serving and empowering the Black, Neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA communities. I specialize in working with adolescents, 16 and older, through adulthood as they navigate their journeys of growth, healing, and development. Training and clinical expertise at Melanated Wellness is centered upon compassionate treatment for issues related to trauma, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity and sexual and gender identity. Clients will be welcomed to a collaborative space where they can identify their needs to begin working towards wellness.
Welcome! I am the Owner and Co-Founder of Melanated Wellness, LLC. Our mission places particular emphasis on better serving and empowering the Black, Neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA communities. I specialize in working with adolescents, 16 and older, through adulthood as they navigate their journeys of growth, healing, and development. Training and clinical expertise at Melanated Wellness is centered upon compassionate treatment for issues related to trauma, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity and sexual and gender identity. Clients will be welcomed to a collaborative space where they can identify their needs to begin working towards wellness.
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![Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4feebf9b-f5a3-4eda-b6fa-c4fa6f0a2744/1/320x400.png)
By taking the first step toward obtaining therapeutic services, the client has already proven bravery and openness. My ideal client would put as much effort as possible in that moment, moment, or day to continue prioritizing their mental health and related needs. My ideal client, over time, would be able to identify what supports them vs. what does not.
By taking the first step toward obtaining therapeutic services, the client has already proven bravery and openness. My ideal client would put as much effort as possible in that moment, moment, or day to continue prioritizing their mental health and related needs. My ideal client, over time, would be able to identify what supports them vs. what does not.
![Photo of Robyn Davy - The Treatment and Learning Centers, LCPC-S, BC-DMT, ASDCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a55aca04-f510-497f-870c-2a9c44f98d93/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Treatment and Learning Centers
Counselor, LCPC-S, BC-DMT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
TLC is a multi-disciplinary group of psychologists, OT's, & SLP's. The core of our philosophy is the belief that our focus is on people, not on diagnoses/disabilities. With that in mind, we develop an individualized plan with every child, young adult, and family. We use a holistic, strengths-based approach to help individuals reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, develop better self-esteem, learn new coping skills, improve social skills, and learn how to communicate more effectively. With these skills, children, teens, and adults can develop more positive relationships and improve their functioning at school or work.
TLC is a multi-disciplinary group of psychologists, OT's, & SLP's. The core of our philosophy is the belief that our focus is on people, not on diagnoses/disabilities. With that in mind, we develop an individualized plan with every child, young adult, and family. We use a holistic, strengths-based approach to help individuals reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, develop better self-esteem, learn new coping skills, improve social skills, and learn how to communicate more effectively. With these skills, children, teens, and adults can develop more positive relationships and improve their functioning at school or work.
![Photo of Amy Haesler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b14d1603-9ceb-4275-ae81-63cd709460ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Haesler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (Online Only)
I believe that mutual trust and respect take time to develop, providing the foundation for a successful therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life. I am not here to tell you who to become. I am here to provide you with the necessary tools to guide and support you on your own path.
I believe that mutual trust and respect take time to develop, providing the foundation for a successful therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life. I am not here to tell you who to become. I am here to provide you with the necessary tools to guide and support you on your own path.
![Photo of Jeffrey Crouch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0220732-4f47-4b6a-bb36-98dc60bf6b95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Crouch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (Online Only)
Working with adults, children and couples I use a variety of modalities including mindfullness, cognitive, DBT & exposure therapy. In working with couples I focus on improving their communication skills & their emotional closeness. I also specialize in treating PTSD, OCD, phobias and GAD using exposure therapy.
Working with adults, children and couples I use a variety of modalities including mindfullness, cognitive, DBT & exposure therapy. In working with couples I focus on improving their communication skills & their emotional closeness. I also specialize in treating PTSD, OCD, phobias and GAD using exposure therapy.
![Photo of Bruce Kirby, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f9dfaf4-a1ce-411c-ab46-2e87661ab966/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bruce Kirby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
In my years of professional practice, I've come to understand the profound intricacies of mental health conditions, one of the most compelling and often misunderstood being Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is more than just a term casually thrown around in daily conversations about tidiness or an affinity for order; it’s a challenging and often debilitating condition that has real, tangible impacts on individuals and their loved ones. OCD is not a manifestation of someone merely being "particular" or "meticulous". It is the relentless recurrence of unwelcome thoughts and the intense urge to perform certain behaviors or
In my years of professional practice, I've come to understand the profound intricacies of mental health conditions, one of the most compelling and often misunderstood being Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is more than just a term casually thrown around in daily conversations about tidiness or an affinity for order; it’s a challenging and often debilitating condition that has real, tangible impacts on individuals and their loved ones. OCD is not a manifestation of someone merely being "particular" or "meticulous". It is the relentless recurrence of unwelcome thoughts and the intense urge to perform certain behaviors or
![Photo of Errin McLendon, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb7a958b-09db-44f8-9de1-95ec21d82efc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Errin McLendon
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (Online Only)
I am a native Baltimorean and with a heart for helping others. I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, couples, and families find their inner strengths to bring about the change they want in their lives through a wide variety of evidence-based theories. I work with people from all walks of life with concerns ranging from adjustment and self-discovery to severe trauma and depression and everything in between.
I am a native Baltimorean and with a heart for helping others. I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, couples, and families find their inner strengths to bring about the change they want in their lives through a wide variety of evidence-based theories. I work with people from all walks of life with concerns ranging from adjustment and self-discovery to severe trauma and depression and everything in between.
![Photo of Angela Williams, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e9042df-ed20-4594-ade5-4652b43feb64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Williams
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (Online Only)
Therapy can give you a safe place and the courage to share and reveal your story; to go there, not alone, but with someone who can help you understand what is happening. With expanded knowledge of yourself, you have the strength to act on intentional and personally meaningful choices.
I am a catalyst for your understanding of yourself, alone and in relation to those important to you.
Therapy can give you a safe place and the courage to share and reveal your story; to go there, not alone, but with someone who can help you understand what is happening. With expanded knowledge of yourself, you have the strength to act on intentional and personally meaningful choices.
I am a catalyst for your understanding of yourself, alone and in relation to those important to you.
![Photo of Kelcei Kelly, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20a6b9f2-64d0-49c1-aed0-0b3c86b10de0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelcei Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (Online Only)
I offer a non-judgmental space with cultural, religious, and ethnic humility. I am open-minded, honest, and empathetic with my individuals and families, challenging them to meet their potential. I believe in using evidence-based research and strength-based methodologies to address needs. Together we can work to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. I believe that a trusting therapeutic partnership is the foundation to meeting your treatment goals!
I offer a non-judgmental space with cultural, religious, and ethnic humility. I am open-minded, honest, and empathetic with my individuals and families, challenging them to meet their potential. I believe in using evidence-based research and strength-based methodologies to address needs. Together we can work to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. I believe that a trusting therapeutic partnership is the foundation to meeting your treatment goals!
![Photo of Piumi Rajasekera, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75830378-b88f-4b2e-afcf-2ef44db40cfd/1/320x400.png)
Piumi Rajasekera
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Accepting new clients in Maryland! Are you struggling with adjusting to a life transition? Starting or graduating college, starting a new job, adjusting to married life, becoming a new parent, to name a few, are some incredibly difficult life transitions that can leave you feeling anxious and overwhelmed. You've taken the first step - give yourself some credit for seeking help! Together, we will work on helping you find your new rhythm, build confidence, identify personal strengths and get to a better place of mental, emotional and physical well-being.
Accepting new clients in Maryland! Are you struggling with adjusting to a life transition? Starting or graduating college, starting a new job, adjusting to married life, becoming a new parent, to name a few, are some incredibly difficult life transitions that can leave you feeling anxious and overwhelmed. You've taken the first step - give yourself some credit for seeking help! Together, we will work on helping you find your new rhythm, build confidence, identify personal strengths and get to a better place of mental, emotional and physical well-being.
See more therapy options for Gaithersburg
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Gaithersburg
- Bethesda
- Chevy Chase
- Clarksburg
- Darnestown
- Germantown
- Kensington
- North Bethesda
- North Potomac
- Olney
- Potomac
- Rockville
- Silver Spring
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.