Autism Therapists in Madison, NJ

Melissa Klika
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940
Whether due to Aspergers, Autism, Social Anxiety, or ADHD I am an experienced clinician in the realm of social skills development.
My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, collaborative environment for my clients. I am a licensed psychologist specializing in individual and group therapy for children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I can assist in the development of coping strategies to manage social challenges, stress, depression, and anxiety. I help individuals learn about specific behaviors and develop interventions that lead to positive behavioral change. Together we can identify triggers to stress and develop coping skills for empowerment.
Whether due to Aspergers, Autism, Social Anxiety, or ADHD I am an experienced clinician in the realm of social skills development.
My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, collaborative environment for my clients. I am a licensed psychologist specializing in individual and group therapy for children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I can assist in the development of coping strategies to manage social challenges, stress, depression, and anxiety. I help individuals learn about specific behaviors and develop interventions that lead to positive behavioral change. Together we can identify triggers to stress and develop coping skills for empowerment.
(908) 982-4065 View (908) 982-4065
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, NJ 07940
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.
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Photo of Jen Ellis Walters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Ellis Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, NJ 07940
Feeling lost when trying to decide your next steps or ways to work through changes? Struggling to determine how to best help your child through anxiety or high functioning autism? Support, education & targeted therapy with an experienced therapist can make a huge difference in you/your child’s self-esteem, understanding of self and your family’s daily life.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. The “right fit” in therapy is crucial for success. I am told I am an approachable and knowledgeable therapist and listed below are my areas of specialty. I offer in-office therapy, in-home consultation, training and family/community support meetings aimed at providing an integrative approach to you or your child’s emotional health. For my work with children, I specialize in high functioning autism, ADHD, anxiety and other childhood behavioral concerns. With adults, I focus on how life changes/losses have changed your path and work to help you get back to where you want to be.
Feeling lost when trying to decide your next steps or ways to work through changes? Struggling to determine how to best help your child through anxiety or high functioning autism? Support, education & targeted therapy with an experienced therapist can make a huge difference in you/your child’s self-esteem, understanding of self and your family’s daily life.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. The “right fit” in therapy is crucial for success. I am told I am an approachable and knowledgeable therapist and listed below are my areas of specialty. I offer in-office therapy, in-home consultation, training and family/community support meetings aimed at providing an integrative approach to you or your child’s emotional health. For my work with children, I specialize in high functioning autism, ADHD, anxiety and other childhood behavioral concerns. With adults, I focus on how life changes/losses have changed your path and work to help you get back to where you want to be.
(973) 520-0351 View (973) 520-0351
Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, NJ 07940
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.
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Photo of Vanessa Morgenthaler, MA, LPC, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa Morgenthaler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients on many issues (life is complicated!) with a special focus on anxiety, depression, and helping folks identify and understand neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism).
Productive therapy starts by building a genuine connection. I enjoy helping clients to better understand and navigate stressors while building resilience, self-awareness & self-sufficiency. I am a firm believer of therapy being what you need it to be, and don't believe that therapy has to last forever.
I work with clients on many issues (life is complicated!) with a special focus on anxiety, depression, and helping folks identify and understand neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism).
Productive therapy starts by building a genuine connection. I enjoy helping clients to better understand and navigate stressors while building resilience, self-awareness & self-sufficiency. I am a firm believer of therapy being what you need it to be, and don't believe that therapy has to last forever.
(973) 874-1428 View (973) 874-1428
Photo of Diane Uhler, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Uhler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940
As a professional helper, my goals is to walk alongside you and help you find your solutions to problem situations. I believe that the solution to problem situations in life are within you and I will strive with you to find an effective solution to your life struggles whether they be relationships, family, marriage, parenting, work and your overall sense of well-being. I use a blend of therapeutic approaches personalized to the specific needs of each individual. These approaches include Psychodynamic and Person Centered Therapy, CBT, Gestalt, REBT, Family Systems, Play Therapy as well as others.
As a professional helper, my goals is to walk alongside you and help you find your solutions to problem situations. I believe that the solution to problem situations in life are within you and I will strive with you to find an effective solution to your life struggles whether they be relationships, family, marriage, parenting, work and your overall sense of well-being. I use a blend of therapeutic approaches personalized to the specific needs of each individual. These approaches include Psychodynamic and Person Centered Therapy, CBT, Gestalt, REBT, Family Systems, Play Therapy as well as others.
(973) 822-0707 View (973) 822-0707
Photo of Lauren Rubino, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Rubino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940
Teens are experiencing anxiety and depression at an increased rate. The pressures of school, friendships, and social media are overwhelming. You are noticing that your teen is irritable, withdrawn, expressing excessive worry or sadness, and having difficulty managing their emotions. Communication between you and your teen is tense or non-existent. My goal in therapy is to help your teen identify their emotions and develop coping strategies to improve their emotional-well being. I work to quickly build rapport with your teen so that they feel comfortable to speak about their problems and feelings.
Teens are experiencing anxiety and depression at an increased rate. The pressures of school, friendships, and social media are overwhelming. You are noticing that your teen is irritable, withdrawn, expressing excessive worry or sadness, and having difficulty managing their emotions. Communication between you and your teen is tense or non-existent. My goal in therapy is to help your teen identify their emotions and develop coping strategies to improve their emotional-well being. I work to quickly build rapport with your teen so that they feel comfortable to speak about their problems and feelings.
(973) 791-6394 View (973) 791-6394

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Harris - COR Behavioral Group, MS, BCBA, LBA
COR Behavioral Group
MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
COR Behavioral Group Specializes in treating Autism and other disorders that affect behavior. Using the principles of applied behavior analysis, or ABA. We travel to your home to deliver effective, lasting, treatment. To ensure the best chances of success we offer in home service in NJ, statewide, and large regions of PA/NY/MO/FL. PLEASE NOTE: although I am happy to treat a wide range of behavioral issues, I can only bill insurance for Autism at present. All others will be out of pocket. We also offer full day, center based services in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
COR Behavioral Group Specializes in treating Autism and other disorders that affect behavior. Using the principles of applied behavior analysis, or ABA. We travel to your home to deliver effective, lasting, treatment. To ensure the best chances of success we offer in home service in NJ, statewide, and large regions of PA/NY/MO/FL. PLEASE NOTE: although I am happy to treat a wide range of behavioral issues, I can only bill insurance for Autism at present. All others will be out of pocket. We also offer full day, center based services in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
(201) 285-2081 View (201) 285-2081
Photo of Alex Gitter, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Gitter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
Through these experiences, I developed a particular passion for and specialty in working with individuals on the autism spectrum, supporting them in capitalizing on their strengths and providing skills to maximize their potential.
Effective counseling, like effective parenting and teaching, involves understanding where someone is at in their growth process and providing them with a safe space and the supports essential to move to the next level. Developmentalists refer to this as "scaffolding". Like scaffolding for a building, these external supports are specific and put in place to allow for expansion and strengthening. Now, think about your favorite mentor or coach. It is likely that they provided support and encouragement that was a good match for you. As a counselor, I provide these supports, assisting my clients in reaching their greatest potential.
Through these experiences, I developed a particular passion for and specialty in working with individuals on the autism spectrum, supporting them in capitalizing on their strengths and providing skills to maximize their potential.
Effective counseling, like effective parenting and teaching, involves understanding where someone is at in their growth process and providing them with a safe space and the supports essential to move to the next level. Developmentalists refer to this as "scaffolding". Like scaffolding for a building, these external supports are specific and put in place to allow for expansion and strengthening. Now, think about your favorite mentor or coach. It is likely that they provided support and encouragement that was a good match for you. As a counselor, I provide these supports, assisting my clients in reaching their greatest potential.
(973) 397-5862 View (973) 397-5862
Photo of Michael H Goldman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael H Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
Goldman specializes in the treatment of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder across the span of early childhood to adulthood.
Mr. Goldman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, families and groups. He holds a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. Mr. Goldman also holds a certificate in school social work for the state of New Jersey. ​ Mr. Goldman spent 7 years working with children and adolescents in an emotionally disturbed private school program. He gained experience with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, school avoidance, learning disabilities and the special education process.
Goldman specializes in the treatment of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder across the span of early childhood to adulthood.
Mr. Goldman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, families and groups. He holds a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. Mr. Goldman also holds a certificate in school social work for the state of New Jersey. ​ Mr. Goldman spent 7 years working with children and adolescents in an emotionally disturbed private school program. He gained experience with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, school avoidance, learning disabilities and the special education process.
(908) 738-9983 View (908) 738-9983
Photo of Gail Schrimmer, PhD, Psychologist
Gail Schrimmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, NJ 07928
Schrimmer has researched Autism, the queer community, ecotherapy, patient satisfaction variables, and group psychotherapy.
Are you seeking individual or group therapy, a psychological evaluation, career testing, or career coaching? Air-filtrated indoor, telehealth, and outdoor sessions are offered, and most in-network insurance plans accepted. With over 20 years of therapy, testing, teaching, and supervising experience, and as both a clinical psychologist and a school psychologist, Dr. Schrimmer has a uniquely comprehensive practice. Calls generally receive a response by the next business day. In addition to daytime appointments, weekend and evening hours are available.
Schrimmer has researched Autism, the queer community, ecotherapy, patient satisfaction variables, and group psychotherapy.
Are you seeking individual or group therapy, a psychological evaluation, career testing, or career coaching? Air-filtrated indoor, telehealth, and outdoor sessions are offered, and most in-network insurance plans accepted. With over 20 years of therapy, testing, teaching, and supervising experience, and as both a clinical psychologist and a school psychologist, Dr. Schrimmer has a uniquely comprehensive practice. Calls generally receive a response by the next business day. In addition to daytime appointments, weekend and evening hours are available.
(973) 309-8756 View (973) 309-8756
Photo of Liz Matheis - Psychological and Educational Consulting LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Psychological and Educational Consulting LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
We specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Learning Difficulties (dyslexia), and Behavioral Struggles at home and in school using a CBT, positive, holistic approach.
You are no longer alone! Let us support you and your child, adolescent, or young adult with special needs. Our team of therapists is here to help you manage ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Learning Disability through Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent Coaching, Behavior Management and Executive Functioning Coaching. We also offer Psycho-Educational Evaluations that are CST, College Board, LSAT, MCAT, College and bar exam-friendly. We also provide therapy for adults.
We specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Learning Difficulties (dyslexia), and Behavioral Struggles at home and in school using a CBT, positive, holistic approach.
You are no longer alone! Let us support you and your child, adolescent, or young adult with special needs. Our team of therapists is here to help you manage ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Learning Disability through Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent Coaching, Behavior Management and Executive Functioning Coaching. We also offer Psycho-Educational Evaluations that are CST, College Board, LSAT, MCAT, College and bar exam-friendly. We also provide therapy for adults.
(973) 968-5729 View (973) 968-5729
Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
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.
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Photo of Roni Zarbiv - Roni Zarbiv, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roni Zarbiv, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07961
Having developed an expertise in the fields of Mental Health, Chemical Dependence and Intellectual - Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), enables me to provide to my clients with specialized counseling and evaluations, including psycho-sexual assessment and counseling for individuals within the I/DD and ASD diagnosis.
Are you experiencing excessive worry, anxiety and/or depression? Are you dealing with other issues such as chemical abuse, behavioral challenges that adversely impact your life? Welcome and greetings to you for taking an important step in addressing your emotional wellness needs. Seeking professional help is an important step on your road to wellness. With more than 30 years of clinical experience in the field of Behavioral Health, Addictions and Intellectual-Developmental Disabilities, I have a proven record of success providing individuals, couples and family counseling to adolescents and adults in a warm, welcoming and engaging environment.
Having developed an expertise in the fields of Mental Health, Chemical Dependence and Intellectual - Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), enables me to provide to my clients with specialized counseling and evaluations, including psycho-sexual assessment and counseling for individuals within the I/DD and ASD diagnosis.
Are you experiencing excessive worry, anxiety and/or depression? Are you dealing with other issues such as chemical abuse, behavioral challenges that adversely impact your life? Welcome and greetings to you for taking an important step in addressing your emotional wellness needs. Seeking professional help is an important step on your road to wellness. With more than 30 years of clinical experience in the field of Behavioral Health, Addictions and Intellectual-Developmental Disabilities, I have a proven record of success providing individuals, couples and family counseling to adolescents and adults in a warm, welcoming and engaging environment.
(201) 602-0988 View (201) 602-0988
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
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.
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Photo of Elizabeth Thel, MSW, LSW
Elizabeth Thel
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florham Park, NJ 07932
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. Most of my experience has been in the home and school setting, working with children and teens who experience anxiety, depression, developmental disabilities and behavioral concerns. Most of my clients strive to develop skills to work on emotional regulation and improve their interpersonal relationships. Working with individuals in a variety of settings has given me the perspective on the importance of understanding the influence of different environments on a client's life.
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. Most of my experience has been in the home and school setting, working with children and teens who experience anxiety, depression, developmental disabilities and behavioral concerns. Most of my clients strive to develop skills to work on emotional regulation and improve their interpersonal relationships. Working with individuals in a variety of settings has given me the perspective on the importance of understanding the influence of different environments on a client's life.
(973) 559-2853 View (973) 559-2853
Photo of Nancy Blanco Melendez, EdD, Psychologist
Nancy Blanco Melendez
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, NJ 07928
Therapy can be a very rewarding and empowering experience, particularly when it is achieved in collaboration with a trusting, nonjudgmental, nurturing therapist. I enjoy being a therapist whom people feel comfortable with and can trust to help them. My work centers around helping children (ages 3+), adolescents, and families make positive changes in their lives. I work collaboratively with parents, as they are essential in the therapeutic process. Collaboration also often includes work with schools and other professionals.
Therapy can be a very rewarding and empowering experience, particularly when it is achieved in collaboration with a trusting, nonjudgmental, nurturing therapist. I enjoy being a therapist whom people feel comfortable with and can trust to help them. My work centers around helping children (ages 3+), adolescents, and families make positive changes in their lives. I work collaboratively with parents, as they are essential in the therapeutic process. Collaboration also often includes work with schools and other professionals.
(862) 289-7767 View (862) 289-7767
Photo of Stuart M Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stuart M Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07961
My name is Stuart Cohen, for the past 30+ years I’ve worked to be a skillful, effective and compassionate therapist for children, adolescents and adults. I’ve participated in advanced training and use a variety of evidence based techniques to help clients. These methods include: Family Therapy, Beck Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, David Burns TEAM Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gottman Marital Therapy, Gottman Emotion Coaching, CAMS suicide assessment, Michenbaum’s trauma informed CBT. I’ve also completed the Rutgers Advanced Certificate in Social Work for People With Developmental Disabilities.
My name is Stuart Cohen, for the past 30+ years I’ve worked to be a skillful, effective and compassionate therapist for children, adolescents and adults. I’ve participated in advanced training and use a variety of evidence based techniques to help clients. These methods include: Family Therapy, Beck Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, David Burns TEAM Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gottman Marital Therapy, Gottman Emotion Coaching, CAMS suicide assessment, Michenbaum’s trauma informed CBT. I’ve also completed the Rutgers Advanced Certificate in Social Work for People With Developmental Disabilities.
(973) 668-4692 View (973) 668-4692
Photo of Jessica Friedhoff, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Friedhoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Florham Park, NJ 07932
9/18: Accepting new clients! I am a licensed social worker with over 13 years of experience. My practice began with working with children & their families and has evolved to focus on children thru teens, college age, & young adults. When working with children, I specialize in working with those who present with behavioral/ social-emotional difficulties, developmental concerns & school related issues. I have a strong background in behavioral therapy and have worked across a variety of settings.. In addition, I focus on my practice on teens & young adult struggling with anxiety, depression, relational & phase of life difficulties.
9/18: Accepting new clients! I am a licensed social worker with over 13 years of experience. My practice began with working with children & their families and has evolved to focus on children thru teens, college age, & young adults. When working with children, I specialize in working with those who present with behavioral/ social-emotional difficulties, developmental concerns & school related issues. I have a strong background in behavioral therapy and have worked across a variety of settings.. In addition, I focus on my practice on teens & young adult struggling with anxiety, depression, relational & phase of life difficulties.
(973) 791-7546 View (973) 791-7546
Photo of Kristie Hanley, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristie Hanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, NJ 07928
I provide individual counseling to children, adolescents, and young adults who are experiencing life stressors such as social problems, academic pressure, and family conflict or divorce. I also work with young people who struggle to regulate their emotions or have disabilities such as ADHD, anxiety, social skills deficits, and depression. Additionally, I assist family members in understanding and coping with these issues, managing challenging behaviors at home, and working with school professionals to ensure educational success.
I provide individual counseling to children, adolescents, and young adults who are experiencing life stressors such as social problems, academic pressure, and family conflict or divorce. I also work with young people who struggle to regulate their emotions or have disabilities such as ADHD, anxiety, social skills deficits, and depression. Additionally, I assist family members in understanding and coping with these issues, managing challenging behaviors at home, and working with school professionals to ensure educational success.
(862) 366-4716 View (862) 366-4716
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.