Autism Therapists in Kensington, MD

Photo of Elizabeth Ann Tsakiris, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Ann Tsakiris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
Do you have a child with autism, special needs, or multiple disabilities? Do you want to understand how your child learns and how to relate to him/her? Do you want to get the best for your child and family-despite any disability? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, I am a good match for your family. I have over 30 years' experience as a psychologist and teacher in schools, homes, and hospitals. I specialize in psychological services for children and young adults with special needs, and their families.
Do you have a child with autism, special needs, or multiple disabilities? Do you want to understand how your child learns and how to relate to him/her? Do you want to get the best for your child and family-despite any disability? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, I am a good match for your family. I have over 30 years' experience as a psychologist and teacher in schools, homes, and hospitals. I specialize in psychological services for children and young adults with special needs, and their families.
(240) 426-6475 View (240) 426-6475
Photo of Chris Erb, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Erb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
Chris Erb, LCMFT, is a licensed therapist in Kensington MD offering both in person and teletherapy sessions. Chris uses a strength-based, experiential approach to empower clients by creating new experiences in the therapy room. Chris works with individuals, couples and families. He has experience working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, family conflict, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and other mental health and relationship challenges. He works with diverse cultures, religions, ethnicities, and genders. Chris is an ally of sexual and gender minorities, and works with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
Chris Erb, LCMFT, is a licensed therapist in Kensington MD offering both in person and teletherapy sessions. Chris uses a strength-based, experiential approach to empower clients by creating new experiences in the therapy room. Chris works with individuals, couples and families. He has experience working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, family conflict, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and other mental health and relationship challenges. He works with diverse cultures, religions, ethnicities, and genders. Chris is an ally of sexual and gender minorities, and works with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
(240) 792-7711 View (240) 792-7711
Photo of Ann Lee, LCSW-C, MDiv, BCN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MDiv, BCN
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of challenges, and some of them feel overwhelming and even impossible. This may be one of the hardest periods of your life or in the life of a child you love. PRHP supports individuals, parents, adolescents, and children in finding healing and greater functioning through mind and body therapies. Together we can work to find healing, deeper understanding and greater functionality for you and those you love. You do not have to go through this time alone. Reach out and find the support you need to heal.
Life is full of challenges, and some of them feel overwhelming and even impossible. This may be one of the hardest periods of your life or in the life of a child you love. PRHP supports individuals, parents, adolescents, and children in finding healing and greater functioning through mind and body therapies. Together we can work to find healing, deeper understanding and greater functionality for you and those you love. You do not have to go through this time alone. Reach out and find the support you need to heal.
(240) 392-4519 View (240) 392-4519
Photo of Lori Rothfeld, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Rothfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative approach between the client and the therapist, where we work together on your therapeutic goals to reach greater awareness and personal growth. I work with pre-teens, adolescents, emerging adults, and adults dealing with social and academic stressors, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. I also work with adults in these areas and in the areas of life changes. I provide psychoeducational support for families with children with developmental differences, acute and chronic illnesses, and co-parenting issues.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative approach between the client and the therapist, where we work together on your therapeutic goals to reach greater awareness and personal growth. I work with pre-teens, adolescents, emerging adults, and adults dealing with social and academic stressors, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. I also work with adults in these areas and in the areas of life changes. I provide psychoeducational support for families with children with developmental differences, acute and chronic illnesses, and co-parenting issues.
(240) 226-3821 View (240) 226-3821
Photo of Sarah Charmchi, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Charmchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the DMV area and the owner/director of Serenity Psychotherapy Group, LLC. Your well-being is my utmost priority, and I am here to support you on your therapeutic journey. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression or other life traumas or transitions, I deeply understand the vulnerability and courage that comes with seeking therapy, and I value the trust you place in me as your ally. Together, I will work with you to create a non-judgmental and safe space where you can explore, gain insight, and grow.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the DMV area and the owner/director of Serenity Psychotherapy Group, LLC. Your well-being is my utmost priority, and I am here to support you on your therapeutic journey. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression or other life traumas or transitions, I deeply understand the vulnerability and courage that comes with seeking therapy, and I value the trust you place in me as your ally. Together, I will work with you to create a non-judgmental and safe space where you can explore, gain insight, and grow.
(301) 939-0372 View (301) 939-0372
Photo of Jonah Green - Jonah Green and Associates, LLC, LCSW-C, LCMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonah Green and Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
Ours is a highly regarded group of experienced, compassionate, skilled therapists working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Washingtonian and Washington Parent magazines cited us as top therapists in the DMV area. We collaborate with our clients to address emotional, family, and relationship concerns. We welcome clients with various ethnic/racial/religious backgrounds, family structures (single parent, divorced, etc.), and sexual, gender, and developmental differences.
Ours is a highly regarded group of experienced, compassionate, skilled therapists working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Washingtonian and Washington Parent magazines cited us as top therapists in the DMV area. We collaborate with our clients to address emotional, family, and relationship concerns. We welcome clients with various ethnic/racial/religious backgrounds, family structures (single parent, divorced, etc.), and sexual, gender, and developmental differences.
(240) 813-9203 View (240) 813-9203
Photo of Sarah Charmchi - Serenity Psychotherapy Group, LLC , LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Psychotherapy Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895  (Online Only)
Welcome! Our practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to individuals, families and couples seeking support for concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma and other life transitions .
Welcome! Our practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to individuals, families and couples seeking support for concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma and other life transitions .
(301) 396-7462 View (301) 396-7462
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Holland - Cheryl Holland, Ph.D. & Associates, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Cheryl Holland, Ph.D. & Associates, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping children, adults, and families to grow, connect, and experience more joy in their lives. My treatment and consultation services range from evaluation and short term support to comprehensive intervention. I am guided by the belief that individuals and families possess great strength that is fully expressed through nurturing relationships, empathic listening, and collaborative problem solving. Supporting insight and skill building, I aim to help others develop positive well-being, cultivate healthy relationships, and navigate life challenges.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping children, adults, and families to grow, connect, and experience more joy in their lives. My treatment and consultation services range from evaluation and short term support to comprehensive intervention. I am guided by the belief that individuals and families possess great strength that is fully expressed through nurturing relationships, empathic listening, and collaborative problem solving. Supporting insight and skill building, I aim to help others develop positive well-being, cultivate healthy relationships, and navigate life challenges.
(301) 945-7534 View (301) 945-7534
Photo of Zach Gordon, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zach Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to adults, adolescents, and families in the Washington metropolitan area. Before founding my own practice, I worked as a Middle School counselor for 10 years where I gained extensive experience working with school administrators and counselors, social service providers, and parents in supporting adolescents via counseling. In addition to counseling, I offer parent training and guidance with educational supports. I also work with adults on a wide range of emotional or relational challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to adults, adolescents, and families in the Washington metropolitan area. Before founding my own practice, I worked as a Middle School counselor for 10 years where I gained extensive experience working with school administrators and counselors, social service providers, and parents in supporting adolescents via counseling. In addition to counseling, I offer parent training and guidance with educational supports. I also work with adults on a wide range of emotional or relational challenges.
(301) 812-4952 View (301) 812-4952
Photo of David I Sommers, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
David I Sommers
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
I work with individuals and couples, adults ages 18 -85. I see people daytime and in the evening. I work primarily with mood and anxiety disorders and also have substantial experience working with serious mental illnesses.
I work with individuals and couples, adults ages 18 -85. I see people daytime and in the evening. I work primarily with mood and anxiety disorders and also have substantial experience working with serious mental illnesses.
(301) 825-8202 View (301) 825-8202
Photo of Jonathan Rhoads, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Rhoads
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
If you are looking for a supportive and approachable therapist to help you, your child, or your adolescent build effective coping strategies and create goal oriented solutions to help you improve your quality of life, I can help. My passion is adolescents and children. Some of the issues I focus on include anxiety, depression, adjustment problems, and social skills enhancement in young people. I have extensive experience in helping children, adolescents, adults, and families with complex underlying medical and/or developmental diagnoses deal with the impact these conditions have on their behavior, emotional happiness, and interactions with others.
If you are looking for a supportive and approachable therapist to help you, your child, or your adolescent build effective coping strategies and create goal oriented solutions to help you improve your quality of life, I can help. My passion is adolescents and children. Some of the issues I focus on include anxiety, depression, adjustment problems, and social skills enhancement in young people. I have extensive experience in helping children, adolescents, adults, and families with complex underlying medical and/or developmental diagnoses deal with the impact these conditions have on their behavior, emotional happiness, and interactions with others.
(301) 859-3897 View (301) 859-3897
Photo of Nancy Lee, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
Nancy Lee, LCSW, brings a wealth of experience and an intuitive approach to her practice at LifeStance Health, serving clients across Maryland. Nancy is known for her ability to quickly build strong therapeutic alliances with her clients, a testament to her attentive listening skills and compassionate nature. She collaborates closely with individuals to develop tailored treatment plans, ensuring that each person's unique needs are met. Specializing in trauma, Nancy is deeply committed to helping clients navigate and heal from past experiences.
Nancy Lee, LCSW, brings a wealth of experience and an intuitive approach to her practice at LifeStance Health, serving clients across Maryland. Nancy is known for her ability to quickly build strong therapeutic alliances with her clients, a testament to her attentive listening skills and compassionate nature. She collaborates closely with individuals to develop tailored treatment plans, ensuring that each person's unique needs are met. Specializing in trauma, Nancy is deeply committed to helping clients navigate and heal from past experiences.
(866) 846-0024 View (866) 846-0024
Photo of Aliza Reinstein, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aliza Reinstein
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
Hi! My name is Aliza and I am a dedicated clinical MSW graduate student currently serving as a therapy intern at Hopeful Core Therapy. With a robust background in psychology and a solid commitment to research and the use of effective evidence-based interventions, I am focused on providing compassionate and effective support to individuals facing personal challenges and fostering resilience with an enthusiasm for mental health and commitment to evidence-based practices. I have experience working with children and adolescents with neuro-developmental disabilities in both individual and group therapy settings.
Hi! My name is Aliza and I am a dedicated clinical MSW graduate student currently serving as a therapy intern at Hopeful Core Therapy. With a robust background in psychology and a solid commitment to research and the use of effective evidence-based interventions, I am focused on providing compassionate and effective support to individuals facing personal challenges and fostering resilience with an enthusiasm for mental health and commitment to evidence-based practices. I have experience working with children and adolescents with neuro-developmental disabilities in both individual and group therapy settings.
(301) 381-3554 View (301) 381-3554
Photo of Mara Levy, MSOT, OTR/L, CLTLANA, SEP, Occupational Therapist
Mara Levy
Occupational Therapist, MSOT, OTR/L, CLTLANA, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20891
You have a reason for seeking out help - you want a life that works for you, where you can do the things that matter to you and be more fully yourself. Maybe you want to reconnect with your body. Maybe you want to feel safe again, or get more joy in your life. Maybe you're dealing with burnout, stress, or exhaustion. Maybe you have chronic pain or illness, or your executive function hasn't been able to keep up. Maybe you're just looking for ways to survive in a system that wasn't built for you.
You have a reason for seeking out help - you want a life that works for you, where you can do the things that matter to you and be more fully yourself. Maybe you want to reconnect with your body. Maybe you want to feel safe again, or get more joy in your life. Maybe you're dealing with burnout, stress, or exhaustion. Maybe you have chronic pain or illness, or your executive function hasn't been able to keep up. Maybe you're just looking for ways to survive in a system that wasn't built for you.
(301) 686-5458 View (301) 686-5458

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joanne Vu, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Vu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients. I offer Telehealth sessions and offer flexible weekday. I’ve had the most success with clients who have Autism, learning disabilities or making life transitions and are in young adulthood ranging from 18-35 years old. My strengths are connecting, supporting, and providing engagement and processing of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors into objectifiable outcomes in a safe and warm environment suitable for growth and change.
I am currently accepting new clients. I offer Telehealth sessions and offer flexible weekday. I’ve had the most success with clients who have Autism, learning disabilities or making life transitions and are in young adulthood ranging from 18-35 years old. My strengths are connecting, supporting, and providing engagement and processing of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors into objectifiable outcomes in a safe and warm environment suitable for growth and change.
(410) 673-4828 View (410) 673-4828
Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Ascolese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
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) 660-4226 View (240) 660-4226
Photo of Christopher DeFranco, LCPC, LPC-S, Counselor
Christopher DeFranco
Counselor, LCPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
(443) 233-1235 View (443) 233-1235
Photo of David O Black, PhD, Psychologist
David O Black
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
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.
(202) 760-2591 View (202) 760-2591
Photo of Kara Anne Goobic - Dr. Kara Goobic, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kara Goobic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I have been described as a down-to-earth psychologist who integrates humor and compassion with a pragmatic, problem-solving approach to help clients reach their goals. I provide psychotherapeutic services to adults with autism spectrum, attention deficit, and other co-occurring disorders. My work involves concrete, structured interventions along with support and guidance that can be utilized in different settings. As a specialist in autism spectrum disorders, I also conduct autism spectrum evaluations for adults.
I have been described as a down-to-earth psychologist who integrates humor and compassion with a pragmatic, problem-solving approach to help clients reach their goals. I provide psychotherapeutic services to adults with autism spectrum, attention deficit, and other co-occurring disorders. My work involves concrete, structured interventions along with support and guidance that can be utilized in different settings. As a specialist in autism spectrum disorders, I also conduct autism spectrum evaluations for adults.
(301) 804-2055 View (301) 804-2055
Photo of Megan M Herbets, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(202) 743-7505 View (202) 743-7505
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.