Autism Therapists in Cranford, NJ

Photo of Kate Elizabeth Harrison - Ovation Behavior Group, MEd, BCBA
Ovation Behavior Group
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Ovation Behavior Group provides comprehensive ABA therapy for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities. Our team uses evidence-based practices and personalized treatment plans to increase independence and improve quality of life. We design our services to meet our clients’ individual needs and identify the right team of trained professionals to provide ongoing support. Our play-based approach creates a natural environment conducive to learning.
Ovation Behavior Group provides comprehensive ABA therapy for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities. Our team uses evidence-based practices and personalized treatment plans to increase independence and improve quality of life. We design our services to meet our clients’ individual needs and identify the right team of trained professionals to provide ongoing support. Our play-based approach creates a natural environment conducive to learning.
(908) 860-9723 View (908) 860-9723
Photo of Elizabeth R Matthews, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth R Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016  (Online Only)
With a foundation in Adlerian therapy and a blend of cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and play therapy techniques, I specialize in the treatment of autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, bipolar/mood disorders, attachment issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey. My ideal client would be seeking support and guidance in navigating various life challenges and mental health concerns. This client desires a safe and supportive environment where they can openly discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Their goals may include understanding and managing their emotions, healing from past trauma, improving relationships, increasing self-esteem and self-awareness, and enhancing overall well-being.
With a foundation in Adlerian therapy and a blend of cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and play therapy techniques, I specialize in the treatment of autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, bipolar/mood disorders, attachment issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey. My ideal client would be seeking support and guidance in navigating various life challenges and mental health concerns. This client desires a safe and supportive environment where they can openly discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Their goals may include understanding and managing their emotions, healing from past trauma, improving relationships, increasing self-esteem and self-awareness, and enhancing overall well-being.
(908) 948-8187 View (908) 948-8187
Photo of Marisa Lutz, LAMFT, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
(908) 873-3440 View (908) 873-3440
Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I also work with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
I also work with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
(908) 388-9286 View (908) 388-9286
Photo of Nancy Arvizzigno, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Arvizzigno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 20 years experience working with families who have a child with Autism or other developmental disability.
I believe that healthy people participate in counseling to become healthier. Sometimes we need some support and assistance along the way to heal from our childhood, let go and move on from some challenges that we have faced or deal with some current difficult issues or losses. I would like to be the person who guides you through this growth process that counseling will provide. It is wonderful to have someone listen just to you and to reflect and understand how you are feeling. I will celebrate with you as you grow and meet your goals. Call today for a free phone consultation.
I have over 20 years experience working with families who have a child with Autism or other developmental disability.
I believe that healthy people participate in counseling to become healthier. Sometimes we need some support and assistance along the way to heal from our childhood, let go and move on from some challenges that we have faced or deal with some current difficult issues or losses. I would like to be the person who guides you through this growth process that counseling will provide. It is wonderful to have someone listen just to you and to reflect and understand how you are feeling. I will celebrate with you as you grow and meet your goals. Call today for a free phone consultation.
(908) 344-3789 View (908) 344-3789
Photo of Tara Upperco, MS, LAC, Counselor
Tara Upperco
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client could range in any issues. What is more important to me is they are ready and willing to do the work in navigating their challenges and is ready to better themselves. My ideal client is ready to talk and explore different angles of their struggles and is willing to express what is working and what doesn't work for them so we can find tuned treatment and continue to show progress.
My ideal client could range in any issues. What is more important to me is they are ready and willing to do the work in navigating their challenges and is ready to better themselves. My ideal client is ready to talk and explore different angles of their struggles and is willing to express what is working and what doesn't work for them so we can find tuned treatment and continue to show progress.
(908) 888-9589 View (908) 888-9589
Photo of Theresa Hicks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Families are important to me, and learning to communicate in a world where technology and careers can disconnect the family—building bonds and relationships, learning to encourage and recognize the positive in others, and rebuilding relationships. To find the importance, look at past trauma individually, explore the impact trauma has on current situations, and heal the trauma to inspire the future and achieve success.
Families are important to me, and learning to communicate in a world where technology and careers can disconnect the family—building bonds and relationships, learning to encourage and recognize the positive in others, and rebuilding relationships. To find the importance, look at past trauma individually, explore the impact trauma has on current situations, and heal the trauma to inspire the future and achieve success.
(908) 650-8357 View (908) 650-8357
Photo of Corrianne Conti, MA, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corrianne Conti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Welcome! I'm Corrianne, a compassionate and experienced Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) based in New Jersey. My journey includes impactful roles such as traumatic brain injury specialist, school counselor, and a certification in Reiki Level 1, providing a unique blend of therapeutic expertise. In my diverse background, I've supported individuals of all ages, from K-12 students dealing with various challenges to adults facing severe and persistent mental health conditions. My passion lies in aiding those with high-risk tendencies (SI/SIB), disabilities, and trauma, fostering positive relationships and providing crisis management.
Welcome! I'm Corrianne, a compassionate and experienced Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) based in New Jersey. My journey includes impactful roles such as traumatic brain injury specialist, school counselor, and a certification in Reiki Level 1, providing a unique blend of therapeutic expertise. In my diverse background, I've supported individuals of all ages, from K-12 students dealing with various challenges to adults facing severe and persistent mental health conditions. My passion lies in aiding those with high-risk tendencies (SI/SIB), disabilities, and trauma, fostering positive relationships and providing crisis management.
(908) 533-7675 View (908) 533-7675
Photo of Edward Callaghan - Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ, Psychologist
Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
(908) 460-7179 View (908) 460-7179
Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, DSW, LSW
Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown
Licensed Social Worker , DSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
(908) 503-3663 View (908) 503-3663
Photo of Michelle Haar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Haar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Life is full of change, both expected and unexpected. Things like marriage, parenting, work, school, adolescence, divorce, illness, and death can feel overwhelming. Sometimes a major event can leave one feeling lost. Other times just coping with the day to day is a challenge. My clients often express that they are feeling scattered, anxious, angry, and sad. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families at different stages of their life-cycles. I specialize in helping them cope with their feelings, as they move through these periods of transition, so they can learn how to be resilient.
Life is full of change, both expected and unexpected. Things like marriage, parenting, work, school, adolescence, divorce, illness, and death can feel overwhelming. Sometimes a major event can leave one feeling lost. Other times just coping with the day to day is a challenge. My clients often express that they are feeling scattered, anxious, angry, and sad. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families at different stages of their life-cycles. I specialize in helping them cope with their feelings, as they move through these periods of transition, so they can learn how to be resilient.
(973) 671-8131 View (973) 671-8131
Photo of Kellyn Lopez - Healing HeARTS Center, LLC, MA, ATR-BC, LPAT, Art Therapist
Healing HeARTS Center, LLC
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Do you have a hard time finding the right words to express your thoughts and feelings? Is anxiety, fear, trauma or stressors of every day consuming your life? Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed with the challenges and don't know where to go?
Do you have a hard time finding the right words to express your thoughts and feelings? Is anxiety, fear, trauma or stressors of every day consuming your life? Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed with the challenges and don't know where to go?
(908) 365-0358 View (908) 365-0358
Photo of Emile Berk, PhD, Psychologist
Emile Berk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Therapy is different for everyone. I believe that our early relationships and experiences deeply shape how we see ourselves and respond to feelings. I use a flexible model of therapy that draws from Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, neuropsychology, feminist/multicultural, and attachment theories. An emphasis is placed on appreciating the current emotional coping system before attempting to change it. I see my role as helping you develop a relationship with the parts of yourself that you may avoid, reject, or fear. My role is not to fix you (-you're not broken), and it is not to solve your problems.
Therapy is different for everyone. I believe that our early relationships and experiences deeply shape how we see ourselves and respond to feelings. I use a flexible model of therapy that draws from Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, neuropsychology, feminist/multicultural, and attachment theories. An emphasis is placed on appreciating the current emotional coping system before attempting to change it. I see my role as helping you develop a relationship with the parts of yourself that you may avoid, reject, or fear. My role is not to fix you (-you're not broken), and it is not to solve your problems.
(201) 636-1992 View (201) 636-1992
Photo of Marybeth Herits, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marybeth Herits
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016  (Online Only)
It's a courageous step to seek help. A path to change your life for the better is here. I use both short term and longer-term therapy to treat individual adults, teens and preteens. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression and interpersonal difficulties, utilizing different modalities. Primarily, I offer an insight-oriented approach, along with CBT and DBT. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I also offer life coaching. My greatest desire is to help you find a path to the confidence and calm within.
It's a courageous step to seek help. A path to change your life for the better is here. I use both short term and longer-term therapy to treat individual adults, teens and preteens. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression and interpersonal difficulties, utilizing different modalities. Primarily, I offer an insight-oriented approach, along with CBT and DBT. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I also offer life coaching. My greatest desire is to help you find a path to the confidence and calm within.
(908) 344-3626 View (908) 344-3626
Photo of Kisoone Wickham, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kisoone Wickham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
An ideal client for a mental health professional would be an individual with a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc., who demonstrates the motivation to change and improve their well-being. This client should be committed to attending therapy sessions regularly, keeping appointments, and actively engaging in the therapeutic process to manage or overcome their diagnosis.
An ideal client for a mental health professional would be an individual with a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc., who demonstrates the motivation to change and improve their well-being. This client should be committed to attending therapy sessions regularly, keeping appointments, and actively engaging in the therapeutic process to manage or overcome their diagnosis.
(908) 388-9980 View (908) 388-9980
Photo of Ginamarie Miro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ginamarie Miro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My Ideal client would be someone willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. My ideal client may be struggling with self-esteem, body image, or relationship issues. They may be in a relationship that contributes to their low self-esteem and want to find the strength and confidence they need in order to leave it behind.
My Ideal client would be someone willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. My ideal client may be struggling with self-esteem, body image, or relationship issues. They may be in a relationship that contributes to their low self-esteem and want to find the strength and confidence they need in order to leave it behind.
(908) 883-4125 View (908) 883-4125
Photo of Natalia Loureiro, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalia Loureiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey towards understanding themselves and committing to the process of working with me to progressively achieve their goals and desires.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey towards understanding themselves and committing to the process of working with me to progressively achieve their goals and desires.
(908) 503-3973 View (908) 503-3973
Photo of Leah Jayne, MSW, LSW
Leah Jayne
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client is a younger adult struggling with anxiety and poor self-esteem, as well as experiencing many life transitions. They are struggling with friends, relationships, academics/careers and feel they do not have a purpose. This client wants to build their confidence and communication with others. Their goal is to become a happier version of themselves with understanding how to cope with life stressors in a healthy manner. They want to achieve this goal to reduce the feelings of anxiety and depression.
My ideal client is a younger adult struggling with anxiety and poor self-esteem, as well as experiencing many life transitions. They are struggling with friends, relationships, academics/careers and feel they do not have a purpose. This client wants to build their confidence and communication with others. Their goal is to become a happier version of themselves with understanding how to cope with life stressors in a healthy manner. They want to achieve this goal to reduce the feelings of anxiety and depression.
(908) 888-9707 View (908) 888-9707
Photo of James Messina Ph.d., PhD, CPE, Psychologist
James Messina Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD, CPE
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Hello and thank you for visiting our site at Psychology Today. My name is James Messina clinical director at Summit Neurotherapy. In addition to psychotherapy our services are neurofeedback, sometimes referred to as EEG (brainwave) biofeedback; traditional biofeedback; cognitive-behavioral therapy; stress management techniques; and specialization in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This FDA approved non-medication treatment for depression and other disorders is reimbursable by Our treatment philosophy is to assist the person to grow and thrive, resolve problems and overcome life hurdles with continuing growth.
Hello and thank you for visiting our site at Psychology Today. My name is James Messina clinical director at Summit Neurotherapy. In addition to psychotherapy our services are neurofeedback, sometimes referred to as EEG (brainwave) biofeedback; traditional biofeedback; cognitive-behavioral therapy; stress management techniques; and specialization in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This FDA approved non-medication treatment for depression and other disorders is reimbursable by Our treatment philosophy is to assist the person to grow and thrive, resolve problems and overcome life hurdles with continuing growth.
(908) 698-0815 View (908) 698-0815
Photo of Jennifer Stradling - Jennifer Stradling (adolescent/teen specialist), MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Stradling (adolescent/teen specialist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
(908) 680-0321 View (908) 680-0321
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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.