Autism Therapists in North Potomac, MD

Photo of Gertrud Irmgard Classen-Miller - Classen-Miller and Associates, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Nicole Jackson, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I believe that effective therapy is built on trust and unconditional empathy. My treatment approach is rooted in the importance of the individual, using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Somatic skills. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, judgment free space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to taking the time to truly get to know you, so that I can incorporate your interests into treatment in creative ways. I want you to not only process your past, but be equipped with practical tools to fuel your future.
I believe that effective therapy is built on trust and unconditional empathy. My treatment approach is rooted in the importance of the individual, using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Somatic skills. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, judgment free space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to taking the time to truly get to know you, so that I can incorporate your interests into treatment in creative ways. I want you to not only process your past, but be equipped with practical tools to fuel your future.
(301) 591-6086 View (301) 591-6086
Photo of Diana Stewart, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (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 Taylor C Eury, MS LCPC
Taylor C Eury
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS LCPC
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (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 Emma Hughes, MA, LGPC, Counselor
Emma Hughes
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878
Have you just about given up all hope because your life "has always been this way?" Perhaps you are having difficulty adjusting to a loved one with a developmental disability. Or maybe your child is facing difficulties of their own. Whatever the challenge is, I believe that you have the autonomy to edit and make meaning of your story.
Have you just about given up all hope because your life "has always been this way?" Perhaps you are having difficulty adjusting to a loved one with a developmental disability. Or maybe your child is facing difficulties of their own. Whatever the challenge is, I believe that you have the autonomy to edit and make meaning of your story.
(240) 663-5445 View (240) 663-5445
Photo of Harold Graves, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harold Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878
I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, mood, conflict and other issues affecting mental health and overall well-being. I have a dynamic approach to therapy predicated on listening, understanding and working through conflicts in a collaborative way. The support and insight gained in psychotherapy helps reduce stress and leads to personal growth.
I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, mood, conflict and other issues affecting mental health and overall well-being. I have a dynamic approach to therapy predicated on listening, understanding and working through conflicts in a collaborative way. The support and insight gained in psychotherapy helps reduce stress and leads to personal growth.
(240) 474-9159 View (240) 474-9159
Photo of David Jun Selleh, LCPC, LPC
David Jun Selleh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Potomac, MD 20878
I am a courageously curious, deeply relational, and gently direct psychotherapist. I support individuals, couples, and families in more fully connecting with self and others. My style draws primarily from Gestalt: an experiential, relational, here-and-now-oriented, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed approach. I utilize mindfulness, somatic/body process, role-reversal, enactment, dreams, parts work, and other creative experiments. I also integrate Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Psychedelic/Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and other frameworks as needed.
I am a courageously curious, deeply relational, and gently direct psychotherapist. I support individuals, couples, and families in more fully connecting with self and others. My style draws primarily from Gestalt: an experiential, relational, here-and-now-oriented, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed approach. I utilize mindfulness, somatic/body process, role-reversal, enactment, dreams, parts work, and other creative experiments. I also integrate Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Psychedelic/Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and other frameworks as needed.
(301) 685-7482 View (301) 685-7482
Photo of Selen Saydam, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Selen Saydam
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; I know it wasn't easy, but the hardest part is now behind you. My approach to therapy was born out of my passion for supporting and witnessing people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, my top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. I primarily specialize in working with neurodivergent adults and people struggling with numbness, anger, codependency, substance use, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; I know it wasn't easy, but the hardest part is now behind you. My approach to therapy was born out of my passion for supporting and witnessing people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, my top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. I primarily specialize in working with neurodivergent adults and people struggling with numbness, anger, codependency, substance use, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
(301) 381-3491 View (301) 381-3491

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kathryn Gargett-Jones, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Kathryn Gargett-Jones
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
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 Azhia-Lin Thompson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azhia-Lin Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
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.
(240) 820-2606 View (240) 820-2606
Photo of Dr. Rachael Arowolo - Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations), PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
(301) 945-7160 View (301) 945-7160
Photo of Robert Anthony Binger - Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS
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.
(240) 474-9205 View (240) 474-9205
Photo of Alison Dorsky, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(240) 772-9439 View (240) 772-9439
Photo of Karey Steiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karey Steiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Darnestown, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience. During which time I have developed a strong knowledge of child development and sensitivity to the needs of families with children. Currently working with clients who have: ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and anger management concerns. My experience has also included working with people who identify as being on the Autism Spectrum, and adolescents who identify as transgender.
I have over 17 years of experience. During which time I have developed a strong knowledge of child development and sensitivity to the needs of families with children. Currently working with clients who have: ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and anger management concerns. My experience has also included working with people who identify as being on the Autism Spectrum, and adolescents who identify as transgender.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Brenden Stinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenden Stinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
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.
(240) 616-4320 View (240) 616-4320
Photo of Deborah A Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah A Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
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 Emma Sholtis, PsyD, Psychologist
Emma Sholtis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
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 Heather Cheshire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Cheshire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Darnestown, MD 20878
Hi, I'm Heather Cheshire, LCSW-C. I have been a clinical social worker for 13 years. I aim to utilize talk therapy to help support the emotional growth desired by my clients. I believe in building strong relationships to help clients meet their goals. Most of my experience providing therapy has been with middle school, high school, and college aged youth and young adults. I have experience working with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, as well as situational challenges like major life changes and family and relationship issues.
Hi, I'm Heather Cheshire, LCSW-C. I have been a clinical social worker for 13 years. I aim to utilize talk therapy to help support the emotional growth desired by my clients. I believe in building strong relationships to help clients meet their goals. Most of my experience providing therapy has been with middle school, high school, and college aged youth and young adults. I have experience working with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, as well as situational challenges like major life changes and family and relationship issues.
(410) 553-5982 View (410) 553-5982
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
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.
(240) 635-9195 View (240) 635-9195
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I can 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 can 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.
(240) 434-0568 View (240) 434-0568

See more therapy options for North Potomac

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.