Autism Therapists in Germantown, MD

Photo of Jessica Hasson, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Hasson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
These include comprehensive psychological evaluations, psychoeducational evaluations, diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, personality assessment, assessment with 2E Individuals, & Child/Adolescent/Adult Autism Evaluations.
Psychological assessment is often perceived as a way to a diagnosis. Assessment certainly can result in a diagnosis and identify areas for intervention. However, a psychological evaluation can do so much more than that. It can bring a sense of explanation to someone’s experience. An evaluation can help the person feel understood, to feel seen. It can further one’s understanding of the self. All of this can help to facilitate change, by identifying patterns and underlying causes of behaviors. Psychological evaluation is therapeutic, it just relies on data and numbers.
These include comprehensive psychological evaluations, psychoeducational evaluations, diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, personality assessment, assessment with 2E Individuals, & Child/Adolescent/Adult Autism Evaluations.
Psychological assessment is often perceived as a way to a diagnosis. Assessment certainly can result in a diagnosis and identify areas for intervention. However, a psychological evaluation can do so much more than that. It can bring a sense of explanation to someone’s experience. An evaluation can help the person feel understood, to feel seen. It can further one’s understanding of the self. All of this can help to facilitate change, by identifying patterns and underlying causes of behaviors. Psychological evaluation is therapeutic, it just relies on data and numbers.
(240) 730-4331 View (240) 730-4331
Photo of Dr. Sarah K Gardner - Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC, PsyD, NCC, Psychologist
Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876
Two areas of intensive specialization are in autism and in trauma treatment.
Services provided by neuropsychologists and licensed clinical psychologists, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders ( autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
Two areas of intensive specialization are in autism and in trauma treatment.
Services provided by neuropsychologists and licensed clinical psychologists, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders ( autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
(410) 834-4913 View (410) 834-4913
Photo of Kathryn Gargett-Jones, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Kathryn Gargett-Jones
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
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.
(301) 684-5185 View (301) 684-5185
Photo of Elizibeth Ayers, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizibeth Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) whose clinical practice includes working with children, families, and adults in a variety of different settings. My background includes supporting individuals with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and autism.
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) whose clinical practice includes working with children, families, and adults in a variety of different settings. My background includes supporting individuals with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and autism.
(443) 323-1071 View (443) 323-1071
Photo of Emma Sholtis, PsyD, Psychologist
Emma Sholtis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
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.
(240) 450-2738 View (240) 450-2738
Photo of Deborah A Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah A Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
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.
(240) 317-3693 View (240) 317-3693
Photo of Ilene 'chaya' Bush, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilene 'chaya' Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is informed by my neurodivergence. As a therapist, I am compassionate, warm, strengths-based, direct, and insight-oriented. Depending upon your needs, I utilize elements of I-CBT, ERP, EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, puppet therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humor, energy work and spiritual exploration.
My approach to therapy is informed by my neurodivergence. As a therapist, I am compassionate, warm, strengths-based, direct, and insight-oriented. Depending upon your needs, I utilize elements of I-CBT, ERP, EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, puppet therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humor, energy work and spiritual exploration.
(240) 617-3559 View (240) 617-3559
Photo of Tiffon Bryant, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Tiffon Bryant
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Tiffon and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over a decade of work experience in the mental health and human services field. I provide individual counseling for those seeking to navigate issues associated with trauma, emotional and behavioral health disorders.
Hi! My name is Tiffon and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over a decade of work experience in the mental health and human services field. I provide individual counseling for those seeking to navigate issues associated with trauma, emotional and behavioral health disorders.
(410) 881-8159 View (410) 881-8159
Photo of Claire Kalala, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Claire Kalala
Art Therapist, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Wondering if you'll ever feel different than you do right now? I hear you. You feel stuck. For so much of your life, others have told you who and how to be. You try desperately to keep up with appearances but you feel like the token person in most spaces. While they describe you as hardworking, passionate, and driven, YOU see what's under the mask: you're overbooked, distracted, burnt-out. You want to truly connect with yourself, to understand what's important to you, and to feel really seen by people you care about. You want more out of your life; instead of a fog, you'd like to wake up in the morning with a sense of clarity.
Wondering if you'll ever feel different than you do right now? I hear you. You feel stuck. For so much of your life, others have told you who and how to be. You try desperately to keep up with appearances but you feel like the token person in most spaces. While they describe you as hardworking, passionate, and driven, YOU see what's under the mask: you're overbooked, distracted, burnt-out. You want to truly connect with yourself, to understand what's important to you, and to feel really seen by people you care about. You want more out of your life; instead of a fog, you'd like to wake up in the morning with a sense of clarity.
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Photo of Erica Moran Etter, Psychologist
Erica Moran Etter
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, and parent consultations. To treat anxiety and mood disorders, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, incorporating gradual exposure therapy when appropriate. I also have extensive experience utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP) to treat obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as using Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I integrate elements of family systems, motivational interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as needed for each client.
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, and parent consultations. To treat anxiety and mood disorders, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, incorporating gradual exposure therapy when appropriate. I also have extensive experience utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP) to treat obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as using Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I integrate elements of family systems, motivational interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as needed for each client.
(240) 213-8434 View (240) 213-8434
Photo of Kendra E Woolley, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendra E Woolley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876
Kendra specializes in helping clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Her experience also included helping those who have experienced emotional and physical abuse, sexual trauma, parental/caregiver substance abuse issues, and an array of family issues.
Kendra specializes in helping clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Her experience also included helping those who have experienced emotional and physical abuse, sexual trauma, parental/caregiver substance abuse issues, and an array of family issues.
(240) 617-4949 View (240) 617-4949
Photo of Ashley Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Ashley Rodriguez, LCSW, is a highly experienced and dedicated mental health professional with an impressive background in forensic psychology and social work. With over two decades of expertise, Ashley has worked in various outpatient and inpatient settings, making her well-versed in treating a wide range of mental health issues. Her commitment to continuous improvement is evident in her journey toward fluency in Spanish, which enhances her ability to serve a diverse clientele.
Ashley Rodriguez, LCSW, is a highly experienced and dedicated mental health professional with an impressive background in forensic psychology and social work. With over two decades of expertise, Ashley has worked in various outpatient and inpatient settings, making her well-versed in treating a wide range of mental health issues. Her commitment to continuous improvement is evident in her journey toward fluency in Spanish, which enhances her ability to serve a diverse clientele.
(410) 705-2976 View (410) 705-2976
Photo of Lenny Smith, MS, LCPC
Lenny Smith
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Many people find that the process of finding a therapist and enjoying the therapeutic process is tedious and even scary. At Ten Ten Counseling, we make the process simple and easy so that you can get the help you need at a place you want to go. We provide therapy on a gorgeous 100 acre horse farm so that you and your loved ones will be sure to improve your relationships while enjoying great views and privacy. You or your loved one will connect with their therapist on a more comfortable and engaging level than other busy offices can provide.
Many people find that the process of finding a therapist and enjoying the therapeutic process is tedious and even scary. At Ten Ten Counseling, we make the process simple and easy so that you can get the help you need at a place you want to go. We provide therapy on a gorgeous 100 acre horse farm so that you and your loved ones will be sure to improve your relationships while enjoying great views and privacy. You or your loved one will connect with their therapist on a more comfortable and engaging level than other busy offices can provide.
(240) 394-4938 View (240) 394-4938
Photo of Jennifer Bugg Wright, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Bugg Wright
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Let's focus on your strengths to create the life you want to be living! No matter what ails you: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma... even simpler things, such as relationships, work stress, or finding a more meaningful life... I can provide education, emotional skills, coping strategies, and a compassionate ear. As a CBT and ACT therapist, I use therapy and skill building, looking at the interplay between our beliefs and ideas, our experiences and environment, and our values and choices in life. I also address biopsychological concerns such as sleep, neuropsychological functioning, breathing, and fight or flight responses.
Let's focus on your strengths to create the life you want to be living! No matter what ails you: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma... even simpler things, such as relationships, work stress, or finding a more meaningful life... I can provide education, emotional skills, coping strategies, and a compassionate ear. As a CBT and ACT therapist, I use therapy and skill building, looking at the interplay between our beliefs and ideas, our experiences and environment, and our values and choices in life. I also address biopsychological concerns such as sleep, neuropsychological functioning, breathing, and fight or flight responses.
(720) 575-3268 View (720) 575-3268
Photo of Lindsay Guntow - LPP Therapeutic Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LPP Therapeutic Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Are you ready to make the changes you have always wanted, and finally focus on your happiness, health, and wellness? I would like to congratulate you on taking the hardest first step in this process. My clients are children, teens, adults, and couples that are looking to make positive changes in their life, and I'm here to assist and be a guide in this process. My approach is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying their triggers, reframing their negative thoughts, and using positive psychology to begin a new way of thinking and living.
Are you ready to make the changes you have always wanted, and finally focus on your happiness, health, and wellness? I would like to congratulate you on taking the hardest first step in this process. My clients are children, teens, adults, and couples that are looking to make positive changes in their life, and I'm here to assist and be a guide in this process. My approach is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying their triggers, reframing their negative thoughts, and using positive psychology to begin a new way of thinking and living.
(240) 349-7342 View (240) 349-7342
Photo of Mario Lagman, MS, LCPC
Mario Lagman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
I work with adolescents,adults, and couples using the Family Systems approach by considering individual relationships between family members in the context of the whole. This means that I take into account my clients' emotional and relational history, in addition to observing present interactions. This collaboration of information from both the past and present is important in helping each person realize that he/she contributes to the way his/her life functions. It is my goal to help individuals recognize the impact of their unique roles in the family so that they may improve the quality of their interpersonal relationships.
I work with adolescents,adults, and couples using the Family Systems approach by considering individual relationships between family members in the context of the whole. This means that I take into account my clients' emotional and relational history, in addition to observing present interactions. This collaboration of information from both the past and present is important in helping each person realize that he/she contributes to the way his/her life functions. It is my goal to help individuals recognize the impact of their unique roles in the family so that they may improve the quality of their interpersonal relationships.
(301) 278-8190 View (301) 278-8190
Photo of Angela Williams, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Angela Williams
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874  (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.
(301) 655-6896 View (301) 655-6896
Photo of Shanice Harris, LMSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanice Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Are you tired? Are you overwhelmed with the never-ending list of responsibilities? Are you struggling to find balance? Do you feel like an imposter? Do you wonder if you’ll ever be able to truly be yourself and feel safe in this world? Do you feel frustrated that your ancestors chose YOU for this time and this work? I get it, and I got you. For real!
Are you tired? Are you overwhelmed with the never-ending list of responsibilities? Are you struggling to find balance? Do you feel like an imposter? Do you wonder if you’ll ever be able to truly be yourself and feel safe in this world? Do you feel frustrated that your ancestors chose YOU for this time and this work? I get it, and I got you. For real!
(240) 558-8964 View (240) 558-8964
Photo of Brittany Goff, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
Are you consumed with disturbing automatic thoughts, and spending hours chasing, analyzing, reviewing, and giving meaning to the intrusive thoughts? As someone that’s been in your shoes, there is hope and recovery from OCD. I will teach you how to change your relationship with anxiety by looking it in the face and walking towards it instead of walking away. It is easy to stay trapped and believe the false messages that your OCD feeds you. I will teach you how to rewire your brain into no longer believing those false threats that your brain is torturing you with. My treatment approach teaches you how to stop competing
Are you consumed with disturbing automatic thoughts, and spending hours chasing, analyzing, reviewing, and giving meaning to the intrusive thoughts? As someone that’s been in your shoes, there is hope and recovery from OCD. I will teach you how to change your relationship with anxiety by looking it in the face and walking towards it instead of walking away. It is easy to stay trapped and believe the false messages that your OCD feeds you. I will teach you how to rewire your brain into no longer believing those false threats that your brain is torturing you with. My treatment approach teaches you how to stop competing
(301) 396-7939 View (301) 396-7939
Photo of Dr. Da Woon Lee - The Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington, DCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, DCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, worried, or panicked? Are you having trouble with your work, school, or family? If you need to speak to someone about your struggles, you are in the right place. The Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington (FCCGW) is a counseling and mental health services center providing a full range of counseling and mental health services to adults and children living in Maryland and Virginia. FCCGW has been serving people with mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual problems for over 50 years with qualified helping professionals trained in trauma-informed therapeutic interventions.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, worried, or panicked? Are you having trouble with your work, school, or family? If you need to speak to someone about your struggles, you are in the right place. The Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington (FCCGW) is a counseling and mental health services center providing a full range of counseling and mental health services to adults and children living in Maryland and Virginia. FCCGW has been serving people with mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual problems for over 50 years with qualified helping professionals trained in trauma-informed therapeutic interventions.
(571) 604-5992 View (571) 604-5992
1
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.