Autism Therapists in Woodbridge, NJ

Photo of Lynda Ackerman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lynda Ackerman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Thanks for viewing my profile. I work from a developmental perspective with clients across the age span. My treatment approach with children who may suffer from autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning disorders, or behavioral difficulties includes cognitive-behavioral methods, play therapy and joint parent-child sessions. My experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher informs my treatment. My approach to adolescent and adult treatment focuses on establishing a trusting relationship where client concerns can be expressed and addressed in a non-judgmental, collaborative atmosphere.
Thanks for viewing my profile. I work from a developmental perspective with clients across the age span. My treatment approach with children who may suffer from autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning disorders, or behavioral difficulties includes cognitive-behavioral methods, play therapy and joint parent-child sessions. My experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher informs my treatment. My approach to adolescent and adult treatment focuses on establishing a trusting relationship where client concerns can be expressed and addressed in a non-judgmental, collaborative atmosphere.
(908) 741-8447 View (908) 741-8447
Photo of Dr. Brian Carl Quinones, EdD, LPC, RPT-S, Autplay, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Brian Carl Quinones
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, RPT-S, Autplay, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, and Trauma. As a member of the Association for Play Therapy, I look for ways to include playfulness in treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I provide individual, family, and group therapy services. Together, we look to develop goals that connect the person inward with their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and body—at the same time, looking at how they connect socially with the world around them. To help to have a better relationship with themselves and others.
I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, and Trauma. As a member of the Association for Play Therapy, I look for ways to include playfulness in treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I provide individual, family, and group therapy services. Together, we look to develop goals that connect the person inward with their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and body—at the same time, looking at how they connect socially with the world around them. To help to have a better relationship with themselves and others.
(732) 532-3811 View (732) 532-3811
Photo of Marisa Lutz, LAMFT, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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 Rebecca Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hey there! I'm Becky Clark, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in New Jersey. With four years of clinical experience in the behavioral/mental health realm, I've assisted clients facing various challenges, including career transitions, supporting military families and veterans, navigating life changes, and providing executive and professional coaching. I'm particularly passionate about supporting neurodivergent populations, such as those with ADHD and Autism, as well as serving military families.
Hey there! I'm Becky Clark, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in New Jersey. With four years of clinical experience in the behavioral/mental health realm, I've assisted clients facing various challenges, including career transitions, supporting military families and veterans, navigating life changes, and providing executive and professional coaching. I'm particularly passionate about supporting neurodivergent populations, such as those with ADHD and Autism, as well as serving military families.
(732) 913-8672 View (732) 913-8672
Photo of Rama Jiandani - Rama\'s Counseling Center Inc., LCSW, SAP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rama\'s Counseling Center Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, MSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
I specialize in counseling to individuals and families coping with relationship issues, parent-child issues, and extended family issues that are exacerbated by alcohol and substance abuse.
I specialize in counseling to individuals and families coping with relationship issues, parent-child issues, and extended family issues that are exacerbated by alcohol and substance abuse.
(732) 391-1215 View (732) 391-1215
Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, DSW, LSW
Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown
Licensed Social Worker, DSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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.
(732) 334-7177 View (732) 334-7177
Photo of Lindsey McGuinness, LMSW, C-SSWS, CATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey McGuinness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, C-SSWS, CATP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hello, and welcome to my practice! I work with clients and their families from the ages of 4-18. I specialize in trauma, PTSD, school and familial issues among children and adolescents. Does your child have difficulty regulating themselves? Has there been a trauma or changes at home? Is your child withdrawn, isolating or acting out? I am here to help. Each child is unique and each person has a story to tell. I am here to support your child and family on the journey to healing and mental wellness.
Hello, and welcome to my practice! I work with clients and their families from the ages of 4-18. I specialize in trauma, PTSD, school and familial issues among children and adolescents. Does your child have difficulty regulating themselves? Has there been a trauma or changes at home? Is your child withdrawn, isolating or acting out? I am here to help. Each child is unique and each person has a story to tell. I am here to support your child and family on the journey to healing and mental wellness.
(646) 718-5376 View (646) 718-5376
Photo of Lauren Zavodnick - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(732) 936-7819 View (732) 936-7819
Photo of Meghan Mcenerney, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meghan Mcenerney
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095  (Online Only)
Our behaviors make sense if we trace them back far enough. Acknowledging and changing those behaviors can feel overwhelming, so I encourage my clients to show up authentically, embracing not only the darker side of life but also the lighter moments containing humor and resilience. I specialize in childhood and relational trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and attachment issues. I am trained in EMDR, an evidence-based treatment used to process trauma and relieve symptoms of PTSD. I often incorporate IFS-informed practices that support my clients in EMDR reprocessing and accessing vital parts of themselves that may be otherwise neglected
Our behaviors make sense if we trace them back far enough. Acknowledging and changing those behaviors can feel overwhelming, so I encourage my clients to show up authentically, embracing not only the darker side of life but also the lighter moments containing humor and resilience. I specialize in childhood and relational trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and attachment issues. I am trained in EMDR, an evidence-based treatment used to process trauma and relieve symptoms of PTSD. I often incorporate IFS-informed practices that support my clients in EMDR reprocessing and accessing vital parts of themselves that may be otherwise neglected
(848) 301-2919 View (848) 301-2919
Photo of Samantha Powell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hello, I'm Samantha Powell, a licensed clinical social worker. My professional journey includes diverse experiences spanning developmental disabilities, child and adolescent psychology, as well as adult and geriatric clinical settings. I've worked in various environments, from inpatient psychiatric treatment homes to women's shelters, school-based therapy, and individual counseling. My expertise encompasses addressing anxious behaviors, grief, depression, self-harm, relationship issues, trauma, and a range of other challenges that may hinder individuals and families from realizing their fullest potential.
Hello, I'm Samantha Powell, a licensed clinical social worker. My professional journey includes diverse experiences spanning developmental disabilities, child and adolescent psychology, as well as adult and geriatric clinical settings. I've worked in various environments, from inpatient psychiatric treatment homes to women's shelters, school-based therapy, and individual counseling. My expertise encompasses addressing anxious behaviors, grief, depression, self-harm, relationship issues, trauma, and a range of other challenges that may hinder individuals and families from realizing their fullest potential.
(732) 627-4210 View (732) 627-4210
Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, DSW, LSW
Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown
Licensed Social Worker , DSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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 Rea Allarey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rea Allarey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hello, I'm Rea Allarey, a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in both inpatient and outpatient medical environments. Life often presents us with stress and overwhelm, and I'm here to guide you through those challenges. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, health concerns, or interpersonal difficulties, I'm here to support you. Everyone deserves a listening ear and encouragement. Together, we can cultivate effective coping strategies to navigate life's uncertainties. I'm eager to collaborate with you!
Hello, I'm Rea Allarey, a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in both inpatient and outpatient medical environments. Life often presents us with stress and overwhelm, and I'm here to guide you through those challenges. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, health concerns, or interpersonal difficulties, I'm here to support you. Everyone deserves a listening ear and encouragement. Together, we can cultivate effective coping strategies to navigate life's uncertainties. I'm eager to collaborate with you!
(732) 355-3670 View (732) 355-3670
Photo of Katherine Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Tommaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hello! I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
Hello! I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
(732) 641-4872 View (732) 641-4872
Photo of Kevin Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hello, I'm Kevin Murphy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience offering psychotherapy across diverse mental health environments. From leading adolescent intensive outpatient groups (IOP) to assisting older adults facing profound physical and cognitive hurdles in long-term care facilities, I've encountered a broad spectrum of challenges. I firmly believe that everyone encounters tough times and can benefit from professional support and guidance. Together, we'll collaborate to devise a treatment plan tailored to your unique strengths, aspirations, and obstacles.
Hello, I'm Kevin Murphy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience offering psychotherapy across diverse mental health environments. From leading adolescent intensive outpatient groups (IOP) to assisting older adults facing profound physical and cognitive hurdles in long-term care facilities, I've encountered a broad spectrum of challenges. I firmly believe that everyone encounters tough times and can benefit from professional support and guidance. Together, we'll collaborate to devise a treatment plan tailored to your unique strengths, aspirations, and obstacles.
(732) 785-4750 View (732) 785-4750
Photo of Tara Upperco, MS, LAC, Counselor
Tara Upperco
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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 Shannon Burdick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hello! I'm Shannon Burdick, LCSW, and I appreciate your interest in therapy with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I've served in numerous roles, including individual and group therapy, adult and adolescent PHP, substance use disorder treatment programs, and hospital and primary care settings. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My objective is to offer a secure environment where you can freely express yourself and receive compassionate understanding.
Hello! I'm Shannon Burdick, LCSW, and I appreciate your interest in therapy with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I've served in numerous roles, including individual and group therapy, adult and adolescent PHP, substance use disorder treatment programs, and hospital and primary care settings. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My objective is to offer a secure environment where you can freely express yourself and receive compassionate understanding.
(732) 537-8142 View (732) 537-8142
Photo of Natalia Loureiro, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalia Loureiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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 Theresa Hicks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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 Carol Benevy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Benevy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Hi there! I'm Carol Benevy, an LCSW with over 6 years of experience as a therapist across various settings including outpatient, community, school, and telehealth. My mission is to assist individuals who feel stagnant in finding pathways to progress, those who feel disconnected in rediscovering connection, and those who feel adrift in redefining their direction. Beyond my role as a therapist, I've also contributed to healthcare, community mental health initiatives, domestic violence shelters, community drug and alcohol abuse prevention efforts, and disaster response for events such as Hurricane Sandy and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hi there! I'm Carol Benevy, an LCSW with over 6 years of experience as a therapist across various settings including outpatient, community, school, and telehealth. My mission is to assist individuals who feel stagnant in finding pathways to progress, those who feel disconnected in rediscovering connection, and those who feel adrift in redefining their direction. Beyond my role as a therapist, I've also contributed to healthcare, community mental health initiatives, domestic violence shelters, community drug and alcohol abuse prevention efforts, and disaster response for events such as Hurricane Sandy and the COVID-19 pandemic.
(732) 217-7769 View (732) 217-7769
Photo of Kisoone Wickham, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kisoone Wickham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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
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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.