Autism Therapists in Hopatcong, NJ
ADHD, Autism Spectrum, oppositional behaviors and anxieties.
I have over 30 years experience working with children and their families. I use creative techniques to address anxiety, impulsive behaviors, anger and depression. For children the most effective therapy is Play Therapy and for Adolescents, Cognitive Behavioral and creative techniques. I have extensive expereince working within these modalties
ADHD, Autism Spectrum, oppositional behaviors and anxieties.
I have over 30 years experience working with children and their families. I use creative techniques to address anxiety, impulsive behaviors, anger and depression. For children the most effective therapy is Play Therapy and for Adolescents, Cognitive Behavioral and creative techniques. I have extensive expereince working within these modalties
Deborah Ambrose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAT
Verified Verified
Hopatcong, NJ 07843 (Online Only)
Beginning therapy is not an easy decision, and it takes courage to start the process of addressing a life problem or difficulty you may be experiencing. I am committed to working with you to help you make positive changes in your life. I am a naturally direct and open person, and my clients can always depend on me to share honest feedback. My hope is that you will leave each session with something more than you had at the beginning of the session- whether this is a new tool, skill, solution to a problem, or different perspective. Our work will be actively addressing the issues you are facing in a caring and comfortable environment.
Beginning therapy is not an easy decision, and it takes courage to start the process of addressing a life problem or difficulty you may be experiencing. I am committed to working with you to help you make positive changes in your life. I am a naturally direct and open person, and my clients can always depend on me to share honest feedback. My hope is that you will leave each session with something more than you had at the beginning of the session- whether this is a new tool, skill, solution to a problem, or different perspective. Our work will be actively addressing the issues you are facing in a caring and comfortable environment.
My methods are deeply rooted in empathy, aided by a caring heart and an analytical mind, as well as an ability to build strong relationships and enlist clients' cooperation in facing life’s journeys. I use plain and even colorful language to create an atmosphere of safety, trust, honesty, openness, understanding, and growth. I've been in practice over 19 years. More than 7 of my years in practice have been dedicated to in-home therapy services. I have seen first-hand how much more at ease my clients are when completing sessions at home. I add to that comfort by bringing open-minded kindness, honesty, and respect to all households.
My methods are deeply rooted in empathy, aided by a caring heart and an analytical mind, as well as an ability to build strong relationships and enlist clients' cooperation in facing life’s journeys. I use plain and even colorful language to create an atmosphere of safety, trust, honesty, openness, understanding, and growth. I've been in practice over 19 years. More than 7 of my years in practice have been dedicated to in-home therapy services. I have seen first-hand how much more at ease my clients are when completing sessions at home. I add to that comfort by bringing open-minded kindness, honesty, and respect to all households.
Catherine Ann Destefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopatcong, NJ 07843
Call for a free phone consultation. I work with very young children, ages three and up and adolescents up to age eighteen and their families. I also work with adults who are experiencing life challenges that are making them anxious or fearful. My experience has centered around children and families who are experiencing divorce, trauma/abuse, familial upset, emotional disequilibrium, behavioral issues, anxiety, family conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, depression, PTSD, and self-medicating behaviors.
Call for a free phone consultation. I work with very young children, ages three and up and adolescents up to age eighteen and their families. I also work with adults who are experiencing life challenges that are making them anxious or fearful. My experience has centered around children and families who are experiencing divorce, trauma/abuse, familial upset, emotional disequilibrium, behavioral issues, anxiety, family conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, depression, PTSD, and self-medicating behaviors.
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Now accepting in-person and virtual clients! As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), It is my mission to cultivate an empathetic and non-judgmental therapeutic environment where clients can flourish. While the core of my experience is focused on adolescents I am passionate about working with adults of various ages and backgrounds. My dedication is particularly focused on working with ADHD/ADD, autism, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and grief, as well as struggles with identity, values, and meaning.
Now accepting in-person and virtual clients! As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), It is my mission to cultivate an empathetic and non-judgmental therapeutic environment where clients can flourish. While the core of my experience is focused on adolescents I am passionate about working with adults of various ages and backgrounds. My dedication is particularly focused on working with ADHD/ADD, autism, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and grief, as well as struggles with identity, values, and meaning.
As a licensed creative arts therapist (drama, art, music, movement, play. creative writing) my skills are especially suitable for clients who have been through levels of trauma (domestic violence, divorce, dating abuse, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, self-harm, anxiety. etc.). In addition, I work with high-functioning kids/teens on the autism spectrum. I have found that the visual and physical work of role-playing, scene-work, improvisation, simple drawings, and video work increases their skills to recognize facial cues and feelings. Through play, these clients build self-esteem, social skills, deepen their emotional range and gain empathy.
As a licensed creative arts therapist (drama, art, music, movement, play. creative writing) my skills are especially suitable for clients who have been through levels of trauma (domestic violence, divorce, dating abuse, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, self-harm, anxiety. etc.). In addition, I work with high-functioning kids/teens on the autism spectrum. I have found that the visual and physical work of role-playing, scene-work, improvisation, simple drawings, and video work increases their skills to recognize facial cues and feelings. Through play, these clients build self-esteem, social skills, deepen their emotional range and gain empathy.
As an LSW, I have been trained to provide mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. After graduating magna cum laude from Rutgers University, I spent time in the corporate sector before completing my masters in social work at the University of Central Florida. I have worked with families facing housing insecurity and children with developmental challenges such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, behavioral issues, and learning disabilities. Clients I have served have sought support for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, parenting education, C-PTSD, and interpersonal conflict.
As an LSW, I have been trained to provide mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. After graduating magna cum laude from Rutgers University, I spent time in the corporate sector before completing my masters in social work at the University of Central Florida. I have worked with families facing housing insecurity and children with developmental challenges such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, behavioral issues, and learning disabilities. Clients I have served have sought support for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, parenting education, C-PTSD, and interpersonal conflict.
Hi! I specialize in mental health disorders such as Anxiety and Depression and developmental challenges, such as Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. My professional training includes TF-CBT and EMDR for working through trauma-related issues.
Hi! I specialize in mental health disorders such as Anxiety and Depression and developmental challenges, such as Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. My professional training includes TF-CBT and EMDR for working through trauma-related issues.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
I have built my experience with clients in the Mental Health, LBGTQIA+, Autism and Substance Use Communities.
I have found each client benefits from an approach that matches their needs and their strengths. My goal is to work alongside and provide support as you work to grow.
I have built my experience with clients in the Mental Health, LBGTQIA+, Autism and Substance Use Communities.
I have found each client benefits from an approach that matches their needs and their strengths. My goal is to work alongside and provide support as you work to grow.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
I provide a safe, calm, empathetic space for children to explore anxieties, work on behavior management concerns, improve self esteem, navigate the world with autism or adhd, process traumatic events and overcome issues with adjustment or abandonment.
Providing in-person therapy for children 3-13! When kids have big feelings they need a safe place to process and explore them. I welcome all kids ages 3-13 to come and work on feelings, coping skills, self esteem, communication, and more in our play therapy room. Play is the language of children and is how they communicate. It opens doors for them to understand themselves and the world around them. I can help facilitate this process utilizing a child centered play therapy approach while also incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
I provide a safe, calm, empathetic space for children to explore anxieties, work on behavior management concerns, improve self esteem, navigate the world with autism or adhd, process traumatic events and overcome issues with adjustment or abandonment.
Providing in-person therapy for children 3-13! When kids have big feelings they need a safe place to process and explore them. I welcome all kids ages 3-13 to come and work on feelings, coping skills, self esteem, communication, and more in our play therapy room. Play is the language of children and is how they communicate. It opens doors for them to understand themselves and the world around them. I can help facilitate this process utilizing a child centered play therapy approach while also incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Luz Villagran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NJ 07801 (Online Only)
My clinical areas include:mood disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, prenatal/postpartum challenges and adjustments to life changes.
Therapy offers a safe space for personal growth and healing. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that reaching out is the first step towards support and understanding. My approach is centered around your unique journey. With empathy and respect, we navigate challenges together, making your well-being the top priority.
My clinical areas include:mood disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, prenatal/postpartum challenges and adjustments to life changes.
Therapy offers a safe space for personal growth and healing. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that reaching out is the first step towards support and understanding. My approach is centered around your unique journey. With empathy and respect, we navigate challenges together, making your well-being the top priority.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
I work with families and children facing a variety of situations from diagnoses such as ADHD or Autism to issues such as divorce, social anxiety or acting out.
Are you feeling anxious and out of control when you think about your child? Do you have questions about relationships or parenting? I have a background in both development and psychotherapy. I teach parents about development and help them learn what is "getting in the way" of parenting the way they want to. I also help couples "get on the same page" with parenting. Children come here to enhance development, learn social skills and have good self esteem. Children with developmental, behavioral and sensory concerns find a safe place to grow and explore. Parent Coaching is also available.
I work with families and children facing a variety of situations from diagnoses such as ADHD or Autism to issues such as divorce, social anxiety or acting out.
Are you feeling anxious and out of control when you think about your child? Do you have questions about relationships or parenting? I have a background in both development and psychotherapy. I teach parents about development and help them learn what is "getting in the way" of parenting the way they want to. I also help couples "get on the same page" with parenting. Children come here to enhance development, learn social skills and have good self esteem. Children with developmental, behavioral and sensory concerns find a safe place to grow and explore. Parent Coaching is also available.
I have extensive experience in anxiety and depression, ADHD, developmental delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, school-based and learning issues, trauma, relationship conflicts, life adjustments, and parenting issues.
I am a practicing psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in both educational and mental health settings. Having earned a master’s degree in education and a doctorate in psychology, I have a distinct perspective of the whole person within broad contexts. I pride myself on my ability to establish comfortable and trusting relationships.
I have extensive experience in anxiety and depression, ADHD, developmental delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, school-based and learning issues, trauma, relationship conflicts, life adjustments, and parenting issues.
I am a practicing psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in both educational and mental health settings. Having earned a master’s degree in education and a doctorate in psychology, I have a distinct perspective of the whole person within broad contexts. I pride myself on my ability to establish comfortable and trusting relationships.
Laura Anne Leone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
Hello. My name is Laura Leone and I am in private practice that offers a lovely out-patient office setting. I have been involved in emotional health education and training for decades and completed my Master's in Mental Health in 2012. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey and my passion includes serving children, adolescents, adults and families to assist and assess in bringing stabilization and effective intervention in a timely manner. In addition to assisting with behavioral challenges, I serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Hello. My name is Laura Leone and I am in private practice that offers a lovely out-patient office setting. I have been involved in emotional health education and training for decades and completed my Master's in Mental Health in 2012. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey and my passion includes serving children, adolescents, adults and families to assist and assess in bringing stabilization and effective intervention in a timely manner. In addition to assisting with behavioral challenges, I serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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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.