Autism Therapists in North Bethesda, MD

Photo of Brad Friedman, LICSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brad Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Over the last 8 years I have worked with teens and adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, grief, trauma and schizophrenia.
My approach to psychotherapy is to help you achieve emotional stability and personal growth. I understand that anxiety and depression can greatly impact your quality of life, and make it hard to engage in a fulfilling and meaningful daily experience. With the mental health services that I have to offer, you can learn to cope better with past, current, and even future problems, so that you may achieve a happy and healthy lifestyle. It is my deeply-held belief that utilizing a collaborative, adaptable, and individualized treatment approach is essential in identifying the underlying causes of challenges facing my clients.
Over the last 8 years I have worked with teens and adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, grief, trauma and schizophrenia.
My approach to psychotherapy is to help you achieve emotional stability and personal growth. I understand that anxiety and depression can greatly impact your quality of life, and make it hard to engage in a fulfilling and meaningful daily experience. With the mental health services that I have to offer, you can learn to cope better with past, current, and even future problems, so that you may achieve a happy and healthy lifestyle. It is my deeply-held belief that utilizing a collaborative, adaptable, and individualized treatment approach is essential in identifying the underlying causes of challenges facing my clients.
(240) 851-4187 View (240) 851-4187
Photo of Alison Dorsky, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Dorsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
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 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.
(240) 772-9439 View (240) 772-9439
Photo of Hannah Breckenridge, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Breckenridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
As someone that struggles with unwanted or intrusive thoughts, feelings, sensations, or urges, you often find yourself spinning in circles. You are constantly hounded by doubt and spend most of your time just trying to keep your head above water. You know that you are being illogical, but just can't seem to shake the feeling that something bad is going to happen. It can be scary to reach out for help. You may worry that you will be judged if you tell anyone about the content of your thoughts, so you suffer in silence. So often it seems that you have to carry this burden alone.
As someone that struggles with unwanted or intrusive thoughts, feelings, sensations, or urges, you often find yourself spinning in circles. You are constantly hounded by doubt and spend most of your time just trying to keep your head above water. You know that you are being illogical, but just can't seem to shake the feeling that something bad is going to happen. It can be scary to reach out for help. You may worry that you will be judged if you tell anyone about the content of your thoughts, so you suffer in silence. So often it seems that you have to carry this burden alone.
(443) 971-3080 View (443) 971-3080
Photo of Taylor C Eury, MS LCPC
Taylor C Eury
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS LCPC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who are motivated and open to exploring positives changes to bettering their lives. I have spent the past three years working with those who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Behavioral issues.
I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who are motivated and open to exploring positives changes to bettering their lives. I have spent the past three years working with those who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Behavioral issues.
(240) 728-2320 View (240) 728-2320
Photo of Jonathan Le, LCPC, Counselor
Jonathan Le
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Welcome to Anchor Point Professional Counseling! My name is Jonathan Le and I am the founder of this group practice. Are you stuck repeating the same old patterns in life and have trouble making decisions? Do you feel sadness or hopelessness in your current situation? Do you or your spouse feel betrayed due to infidelity in the relationship? Do you feel trapped in your struggles with anxiety? Are you struggling with an alcohol addiction and looking for practical solutions for recovery? If any of these things sound like you, then Anchor Point may be a good fit for you! For more information, visit my website at www.anchorpointpc.com
Welcome to Anchor Point Professional Counseling! My name is Jonathan Le and I am the founder of this group practice. Are you stuck repeating the same old patterns in life and have trouble making decisions? Do you feel sadness or hopelessness in your current situation? Do you or your spouse feel betrayed due to infidelity in the relationship? Do you feel trapped in your struggles with anxiety? Are you struggling with an alcohol addiction and looking for practical solutions for recovery? If any of these things sound like you, then Anchor Point may be a good fit for you! For more information, visit my website at www.anchorpointpc.com
(240) 823-4144 View (240) 823-4144
Photo of Maurine K Kelly, PhD, FIPA, Psychologist
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Allison Brown, LCPC, NCC, RPT
Allison Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
We currently have 2 new child therapists that have after school availability. Is it difficult to communicate with your child? Does your child have moments when their emotions take over and have a meltdown? Is your child withdrawn and have difficulty interacting with other children? Does your child have unpredictable reactions to simple requests or situations? Would you like to be able to comfort your child when they appear upset?
We currently have 2 new child therapists that have after school availability. Is it difficult to communicate with your child? Does your child have moments when their emotions take over and have a meltdown? Is your child withdrawn and have difficulty interacting with other children? Does your child have unpredictable reactions to simple requests or situations? Would you like to be able to comfort your child when they appear upset?
(240) 398-3298 View (240) 398-3298
Photo of Rebecca B Resnik - Rebecca Resnik and Associates LLC, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Rebecca Resnik and Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Welcome! Our practice offers neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing and psychotherapy provided by exceptional clinicians. Our experienced clinicians focus on providing the highest quality of care in a warm, supportive environment. We are committed to evidence-based practices in both testing and therapy to ensure that we can help you meet your goals (and your child/teen realize their true potential). Not only are we focused on your goals, we want testing and/or therapy to be a great experience for you and your family. We believe that evidence-based psychological care can transform lives and unlock potential.
Welcome! Our practice offers neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing and psychotherapy provided by exceptional clinicians. Our experienced clinicians focus on providing the highest quality of care in a warm, supportive environment. We are committed to evidence-based practices in both testing and therapy to ensure that we can help you meet your goals (and your child/teen realize their true potential). Not only are we focused on your goals, we want testing and/or therapy to be a great experience for you and your family. We believe that evidence-based psychological care can transform lives and unlock potential.
(240) 434-0755 x1 View (240) 434-0755 x1
Photo of Diana Stewart, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I have seen many clients over the years and each one has been a unique individual with their own story to tell. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two people are alike. Allow me to help you find your own path and solutions through empowerment utilizing your unique strengths. Individuals come to see me for many reasons: Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, OCD, changes in family dynamics and other life changes. I want to provide an open, relaxed, non-judgmental environment that allows you to reach your full potential. Whatever your reason, therapy can be the first step.
I have seen many clients over the years and each one has been a unique individual with their own story to tell. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two people are alike. Allow me to help you find your own path and solutions through empowerment utilizing your unique strengths. Individuals come to see me for many reasons: Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, OCD, changes in family dynamics and other life changes. I want to provide an open, relaxed, non-judgmental environment that allows you to reach your full potential. Whatever your reason, therapy can be the first step.
(301) 701-4020 View (301) 701-4020
Photo of Lori Gunner Kolle, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Gunner Kolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I offer over 30 years of extensive experience working with adults and couples with a broad range of relationship and mental health issues. I have gained the reputation of being warm, compassionate, insightful and flexible. I believe that forming trusting relationships is the basis for healing and growth. My experience and knowledge helps individuals, families and couples feel supported as they work towards achieving their goals. I use a variety of evidence based approaches and in particular I am certified in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) and Integrative Health and Nutrition for Mental Health.
I offer over 30 years of extensive experience working with adults and couples with a broad range of relationship and mental health issues. I have gained the reputation of being warm, compassionate, insightful and flexible. I believe that forming trusting relationships is the basis for healing and growth. My experience and knowledge helps individuals, families and couples feel supported as they work towards achieving their goals. I use a variety of evidence based approaches and in particular I am certified in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) and Integrative Health and Nutrition for Mental Health.
(301) 753-3902 View (301) 753-3902
Photo of Yudi Benamou, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yudi Benamou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
We often spend much of our lives navigating from one challenge to the next. It is due to these challenges that we question ourselves, strain our relationships, and inevitably feel lost and disconnected. Not only do we end up lost and disconnected from the world and others, but we often feel lost and disconnected from ourselves, as well.
We often spend much of our lives navigating from one challenge to the next. It is due to these challenges that we question ourselves, strain our relationships, and inevitably feel lost and disconnected. Not only do we end up lost and disconnected from the world and others, but we often feel lost and disconnected from ourselves, as well.
(301) 396-7394 View (301) 396-7394
Photo of Ryan O'Leary, Counselor
Ryan O'Leary
Counselor
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Hi! I am a licensed graduate therapist working under the direct supervision of Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD at the SOAR program of Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. If you're reading this, you and or a loved one may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or seeking guidance and support. Whatever your reasons may be, know that you are not alone, and that I am here for you! I use a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I believe in your unique qualities and strengths, and that I want to help you connect with your own inner wisdom and resilience.
Hi! I am a licensed graduate therapist working under the direct supervision of Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD at the SOAR program of Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. If you're reading this, you and or a loved one may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or seeking guidance and support. Whatever your reasons may be, know that you are not alone, and that I am here for you! I use a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I believe in your unique qualities and strengths, and that I want to help you connect with your own inner wisdom and resilience.
(301) 709-7051 View (301) 709-7051

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Lewis - Emily M. Lewis Counseling (Grief, Autism, Anxiety), MA, LPC, LCPC, ASCDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily M. Lewis Counseling (Grief, Autism, Anxiety)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, ASCDS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Do you struggle to interact with overwhelming emotions? Are you feeling isolated in your experiences? Do you have a Level 1 ASD diagnosis and wanting to process further? I offer Virtual/In-Person (Fort Worth) appointments in the state of Texas and Virtual ONLY in the state of Maryland. I work particularly with both males and females who are struggling with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorders, varieties of grief, and anxiety. Often we underestimate the impact of having someone share space with us in some of our darkest moments. I would be honored to make space with you.
Do you struggle to interact with overwhelming emotions? Are you feeling isolated in your experiences? Do you have a Level 1 ASD diagnosis and wanting to process further? I offer Virtual/In-Person (Fort Worth) appointments in the state of Texas and Virtual ONLY in the state of Maryland. I work particularly with both males and females who are struggling with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorders, varieties of grief, and anxiety. Often we underestimate the impact of having someone share space with us in some of our darkest moments. I would be honored to make space with you.
(682) 204-6526 View (682) 204-6526
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 David O Black, PhD, Psychologist
David O Black
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20851
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 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 18-30 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 18-30 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 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 Lisa Lenhart, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Lenhart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20851
I have been working with children and adolescents for over 30 years, specializing in the evaluation of anxiety, ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and other areas of difficulty that children experience. There are many reasons a family seeks services for their child, and it is important for the family to feel that the psychologist understands them, their child, and the needs of the family. I seek to gain this understanding, recognizing the fact that all children and families are unique, and that each individual has strengths to draw from to overcome the identified concerns.
I have been working with children and adolescents for over 30 years, specializing in the evaluation of anxiety, ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and other areas of difficulty that children experience. There are many reasons a family seeks services for their child, and it is important for the family to feel that the psychologist understands them, their child, and the needs of the family. I seek to gain this understanding, recognizing the fact that all children and families are unique, and that each individual has strengths to draw from to overcome the identified concerns.
(301) 563-9867 View (301) 563-9867
Photo of Philip B Callahan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philip B Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I have experience working with a variety of diagnoses including ADHD, Depression, Asperger's Syndrome, Autism, Anxiety, and learning disabilities.
I am trained in a psychodynamic and relational approach that includes the use of play therapy, art, music, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. I have spent the last 20 years working clinically with children and adolescents in school settings in Baltimore City, Montgomery County and Prince Georges County. I currently combine my work as a school counselor in a special education facility with private practice.
I have experience working with a variety of diagnoses including ADHD, Depression, Asperger's Syndrome, Autism, Anxiety, and learning disabilities.
I am trained in a psychodynamic and relational approach that includes the use of play therapy, art, music, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. I have spent the last 20 years working clinically with children and adolescents in school settings in Baltimore City, Montgomery County and Prince Georges County. I currently combine my work as a school counselor in a special education facility with private practice.
(240) 560-5252 View (240) 560-5252
Photo of Ellen Dye, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen Dye
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
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.
(301) 323-8669 View (301) 323-8669

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

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.