Autism Therapists in Downingtown, PA

Photo of Colin Smith, LPC, Counselor
Colin Smith
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
Are you a teen or young adult struggling to navigate social pressures and responsibilities? A parent of a struggling teen? I help create self-esteem and establish proper perspectives when young adults feel overwhelmed. A full-time school counselor, Colin Smith has been working with adolescents both in schools and in outpatient therapy for nearly twenty years. Working in both public and approved private schools as well as community mental health has provided Colin with various learning opportunities. Areas of experience include individuals with anxiety, depression, self-esteem deficits, autism, and conduct disorders.
Are you a teen or young adult struggling to navigate social pressures and responsibilities? A parent of a struggling teen? I help create self-esteem and establish proper perspectives when young adults feel overwhelmed. A full-time school counselor, Colin Smith has been working with adolescents both in schools and in outpatient therapy for nearly twenty years. Working in both public and approved private schools as well as community mental health has provided Colin with various learning opportunities. Areas of experience include individuals with anxiety, depression, self-esteem deficits, autism, and conduct disorders.
(610) 753-4643 View (610) 753-4643
Photo of Lynne Hamer, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lynne Hamer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
I am Lynne Hamer. I provide a safe and a quiet place to talk. My goal is to provide trusting and safe environment for you to be yourself. I provide therapy for depression, anxiety, grief, autism, ADHD, and life changes. I provide therapy for younger children and adults. I provide CBT, DBT, and music therapy.
I am Lynne Hamer. I provide a safe and a quiet place to talk. My goal is to provide trusting and safe environment for you to be yourself. I provide therapy for depression, anxiety, grief, autism, ADHD, and life changes. I provide therapy for younger children and adults. I provide CBT, DBT, and music therapy.
(484) 799-7576 View (484) 799-7576
Photo of Dr. James Chok, PhD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Dr. James Chok
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
I am a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. For the last 20 years, I have helped well over 1000 individuals and families navigate challenging issues based upon their unique circumstances. I will work with you to identify a plan that suits your particular needs, and adapt it along the way as we work together. I work with patients of all ages, across a range of anxiety and mood disorders, and have expertise in OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Panic Disorder. I use a blend of CBT, DBT, and ACT principles to help patients overcome their difficulties.
I am a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. For the last 20 years, I have helped well over 1000 individuals and families navigate challenging issues based upon their unique circumstances. I will work with you to identify a plan that suits your particular needs, and adapt it along the way as we work together. I work with patients of all ages, across a range of anxiety and mood disorders, and have expertise in OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Panic Disorder. I use a blend of CBT, DBT, and ACT principles to help patients overcome their difficulties.
(610) 364-5883 View (610) 364-5883
Photo of Erik Young, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erik Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Parenting is hard. Parenting a special needs child is harder. Kids don't come with owner's manuals. If your child happens to have special needs, the situation is often confusing. You want nothing more than to help your child. It's what we do when our children are struggling. Sometimes you just don't know what to do to help. It can leave feeling helpless. You are not alone. I know from personal and professional experience what it takes to make major changes. No matter the nature of his struggle, be it autism, adhd, or some other challenge, you can help your child.
Parenting is hard. Parenting a special needs child is harder. Kids don't come with owner's manuals. If your child happens to have special needs, the situation is often confusing. You want nothing more than to help your child. It's what we do when our children are struggling. Sometimes you just don't know what to do to help. It can leave feeling helpless. You are not alone. I know from personal and professional experience what it takes to make major changes. No matter the nature of his struggle, be it autism, adhd, or some other challenge, you can help your child.
(484) 498-2983 View (484) 498-2983
Photo of Jeffrey S Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Jeffrey S Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
I offer in-person and teletherapy services, and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based psychological services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include Autism and ADHD assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavior therapy, and my sessions tend to be active, collaborative, goal-oriented, and engaging.
I offer in-person and teletherapy services, and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based psychological services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include Autism and ADHD assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavior therapy, and my sessions tend to be active, collaborative, goal-oriented, and engaging.
(484) 276-1633 View (484) 276-1633
Photo of Laura Chandler, EdD, MA, LPC, CCTP, CSAM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LPC, CCTP, CSAM
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Eagles Counseling also specializes in treating children, couples, OCD, autism, ODD, addiction, CBT, EMDR, IFS, and DBT.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, or grief? Is your marriage falling apart? Does your child have behavioral problems? Do you just need someone to talk to?
Eagles Counseling also specializes in treating children, couples, OCD, autism, ODD, addiction, CBT, EMDR, IFS, and DBT.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, or grief? Is your marriage falling apart? Does your child have behavioral problems? Do you just need someone to talk to?
(484) 218-2478 View (484) 218-2478
Photo of Erin Adamitis, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin Adamitis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
My specialty areas include: ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders (e.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working within the field for 10+ years. My work focuses on both assessment and treatment of toddlers, children, and teens who are experiencing difficulties with behavior, mood, development, and cognition. Though I tailor my treatment to the individual needs of each client, I most often incorporate behavioral and solution-focused techniques and work collaboratively with others in the child's life. Now in private practice, I previously worked for various schools and clinics in Chicago, IL, Nationwide Children' s Hospital in OH, and the National Institutes of Health in MD.
My specialty areas include: ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders (e.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working within the field for 10+ years. My work focuses on both assessment and treatment of toddlers, children, and teens who are experiencing difficulties with behavior, mood, development, and cognition. Though I tailor my treatment to the individual needs of each client, I most often incorporate behavioral and solution-focused techniques and work collaboratively with others in the child's life. Now in private practice, I previously worked for various schools and clinics in Chicago, IL, Nationwide Children' s Hospital in OH, and the National Institutes of Health in MD.
(610) 223-9356 View (610) 223-9356
Photo of Jessica Woods, MA, LPC, CCTP, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Jessica (Jess) aims to create a space where you can bravely learn to survive your suffering, rebuild trust with yourself, cultivate healing and move towards flourishing. Jess uses an eclectic collection of evidenced-based therapy approaches and a non-anxious presence to model compassion and curiosity until you learn to implement them for yourself. Jess is a Licensed Therapist (LPC), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS).
Jessica (Jess) aims to create a space where you can bravely learn to survive your suffering, rebuild trust with yourself, cultivate healing and move towards flourishing. Jess uses an eclectic collection of evidenced-based therapy approaches and a non-anxious presence to model compassion and curiosity until you learn to implement them for yourself. Jess is a Licensed Therapist (LPC), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS).
(610) 427-2731 View (610) 427-2731
Photo of Lara Haagen, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Haagen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
As a skilled verbal & art psychotherapist with nearly 2 decades of experience, I love providing support for those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Level 1 Autism & (formerly) Aspergers; and supporting parents of children who have or may have these differences.
Have you ever felt like therapy didn’t quite bring relief, or as if you were ‘failing’ at treatment? Feeling burnt out and unsure why, or facing the challenges of parenting a unique child? You’re not alone and certainly not a failure! Not every therapeutic approach is a fit for everyone, and some can even amplify distress—particularly when neurodiversity goes unrecognized and unsupported. Gaining a deeper understanding of how your mind works and exploring strategies tailored to diverse neurotypes can be transformative, fostering increased confidence, improved behaviors, & enriched relationships for a more fulfilling quality of life.
As a skilled verbal & art psychotherapist with nearly 2 decades of experience, I love providing support for those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Level 1 Autism & (formerly) Aspergers; and supporting parents of children who have or may have these differences.
Have you ever felt like therapy didn’t quite bring relief, or as if you were ‘failing’ at treatment? Feeling burnt out and unsure why, or facing the challenges of parenting a unique child? You’re not alone and certainly not a failure! Not every therapeutic approach is a fit for everyone, and some can even amplify distress—particularly when neurodiversity goes unrecognized and unsupported. Gaining a deeper understanding of how your mind works and exploring strategies tailored to diverse neurotypes can be transformative, fostering increased confidence, improved behaviors, & enriched relationships for a more fulfilling quality of life.
(610) 601-4900 View (610) 601-4900
Photo of Ian Vereen, MA, MT-BC, NMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ian Vereen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MT-BC, NMT
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
As a sought out music therapist, Ian Vereen won awards such as the Social Justice Through music and the John J. Cali Service award for his trauma informed, supervisory, and therapeutic work with a diverse group of individuals. Now, in his work as a pre-licensed counselor, he aims to continue to empower neurodivergent individuals, BIPOCs, and those with trauma-related experiences. He is a client-centered therapist who has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. He also specializes in working with autistic individuals who seek greater insight into navigating unmasking, and living authentically as themselves.
As a sought out music therapist, Ian Vereen won awards such as the Social Justice Through music and the John J. Cali Service award for his trauma informed, supervisory, and therapeutic work with a diverse group of individuals. Now, in his work as a pre-licensed counselor, he aims to continue to empower neurodivergent individuals, BIPOCs, and those with trauma-related experiences. He is a client-centered therapist who has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. He also specializes in working with autistic individuals who seek greater insight into navigating unmasking, and living authentically as themselves.
(484) 673-6939 View (484) 673-6939
Photo of Lauren Cunkelman, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Cunkelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Does your child often have meltdowns or emotional explosions? Are you constantly fighting and feel like your home is a battlefield? Is it hard to connect with your child and understand why they’re behaving the way that they are? My family-oriented and collaborative approach to therapy may be a fit. I want to help you and your child decrease the amount of fighting that occurs and uncover why your child behaves the way they do. I believe that if families are more connected, our society becomes more connected, which means a more positive future. And a positive future is what you want for your child.
Does your child often have meltdowns or emotional explosions? Are you constantly fighting and feel like your home is a battlefield? Is it hard to connect with your child and understand why they’re behaving the way that they are? My family-oriented and collaborative approach to therapy may be a fit. I want to help you and your child decrease the amount of fighting that occurs and uncover why your child behaves the way they do. I believe that if families are more connected, our society becomes more connected, which means a more positive future. And a positive future is what you want for your child.
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Photo of Bill Reichle, LPC, LPCMH, NCC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bill Reichle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMH, NCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Hello there! My name is Bill and I hold a Master's degree in School & Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. I also completed my undergraduate coursework in Family & Human Services from the University of Oregon, and earned another Master's degree in Special Education from Penn State. I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania and Delaware and have been certified as a National Counselor by the NBCC. With my extensive experience, I specialize in working with children, young adults, and parents.
Hello there! My name is Bill and I hold a Master's degree in School & Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. I also completed my undergraduate coursework in Family & Human Services from the University of Oregon, and earned another Master's degree in Special Education from Penn State. I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania and Delaware and have been certified as a National Counselor by the NBCC. With my extensive experience, I specialize in working with children, young adults, and parents.
(610) 890-7951 View (610) 890-7951
Photo of Rebecca Weidler, MS, LBS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Weidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LBS, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
(484) 207-5572 View (484) 207-5572
Photo of Dr. Dorothy Gail Monteith, LPC, EdD, MHS, Counselor
Dr. Dorothy Gail Monteith
Counselor, LPC, EdD, MHS
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
I work well with clients that want to add to their own improvement and are motivated to change. I want to help with this need, or their want to improve. I want to help how you feel, and make you feel more positive. I am a positive, caring, compassionate person and i I listen carefully, and want to help.
I work well with clients that want to add to their own improvement and are motivated to change. I want to help with this need, or their want to improve. I want to help how you feel, and make you feel more positive. I am a positive, caring, compassionate person and i I listen carefully, and want to help.
(610) 347-5704 View (610) 347-5704
Photo of Theresa Anne Counihan, PsyD, Psychologist
Theresa Anne Counihan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
I have worked with persons throughout the lifespan. Most recently, I consulted at skilled nursing homes and assisted care facilities with a focus on illness and end of life challenges. I enjoy working with young adults who are just finding their way in this world and navigating new relationships and responsibilities. I accept clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, stress, identity development, assertiveness, anger management, and relationship challenges for those who are heterosexual, LGBTQ, caregivers, and parents.
I have worked with persons throughout the lifespan. Most recently, I consulted at skilled nursing homes and assisted care facilities with a focus on illness and end of life challenges. I enjoy working with young adults who are just finding their way in this world and navigating new relationships and responsibilities. I accept clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, stress, identity development, assertiveness, anger management, and relationship challenges for those who are heterosexual, LGBTQ, caregivers, and parents.
(484) 209-6486 View (484) 209-6486
Photo of Christopher Willson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Willson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Now accepting clients for individual and group therapy! Whether you are looking to process the past, change the present, or prepare for the future, I would be honored to help you on your journey. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for over 15 years, focussing on reducing anxiety, building self esteem, and finding motivation to build the life you deserve.
Now accepting clients for individual and group therapy! Whether you are looking to process the past, change the present, or prepare for the future, I would be honored to help you on your journey. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for over 15 years, focussing on reducing anxiety, building self esteem, and finding motivation to build the life you deserve.
(215) 274-0172 View (215) 274-0172
Photo of Nicolas Sheridan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicolas Sheridan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19372
An ideal client is one who is motivated to change and live their best life, and believes that they have the capacity to do so. This client will also be curious about themselves, trying their best to withhold judgements about their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Their goals are to live their best life regardless of their situations, and to explore themselves deeply.
An ideal client is one who is motivated to change and live their best life, and believes that they have the capacity to do so. This client will also be curious about themselves, trying their best to withhold judgements about their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Their goals are to live their best life regardless of their situations, and to explore themselves deeply.
(484) 715-8635 View (484) 715-8635
Photo of Emily Fries, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Fries
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
Sometimes it feels like you can't handle ONE. MORE. THING. When you add in the challenges of managing things like neurodiversity, anxiety/depression, grief, and past trauma, life can feel absolutely overwhelming. I would love to offer you the space to sort out some of the chaos swirling around in your brain. I have an informal, non-judgmental style to therapy. I bring an integrative/holistic approach where we will look at your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and how they are all affecting each other. We will make connections to the parts of your story that you feel are in need of growth and healing.
Sometimes it feels like you can't handle ONE. MORE. THING. When you add in the challenges of managing things like neurodiversity, anxiety/depression, grief, and past trauma, life can feel absolutely overwhelming. I would love to offer you the space to sort out some of the chaos swirling around in your brain. I have an informal, non-judgmental style to therapy. I bring an integrative/holistic approach where we will look at your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and how they are all affecting each other. We will make connections to the parts of your story that you feel are in need of growth and healing.
(610) 795-9291 View (610) 795-9291
Photo of Sean Galiczynski - Yellow Springs Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yellow Springs Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
In working with children and adolescents (ages 5-17) you accept the responsibility of meeting with a population who may not have consented to therapy. Although guardians act within the child's best interest, the intervention may not be something the adolescent supports at the time. With this understanding, my primary goal is to simply connect regardless of who walks through that door. Progress cannot occur without a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. To ensure this result, I rely on genuineness and transparency with the client. My extensive experience, both as a School Counselor and Therapist, lead my counseling direction
In working with children and adolescents (ages 5-17) you accept the responsibility of meeting with a population who may not have consented to therapy. Although guardians act within the child's best interest, the intervention may not be something the adolescent supports at the time. With this understanding, my primary goal is to simply connect regardless of who walks through that door. Progress cannot occur without a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. To ensure this result, I rely on genuineness and transparency with the client. My extensive experience, both as a School Counselor and Therapist, lead my counseling direction
(610) 467-2436 View (610) 467-2436
Photo of Haley McCarthy, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haley McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. I have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics as well as school-based counseling for students k-12. I have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, ADHD, OCD, ODD, and ASD.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. I have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics as well as school-based counseling for students k-12. I have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, ADHD, OCD, ODD, and ASD.
(484) 207-5423 View (484) 207-5423
1

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.