Autism Therapists in Montgomeryville, PA
Welcome to First Children! We are a multi-site psychological, counseling, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) center serving children, adolescents, and young adults with autism and their families. At our STRIVE centers, we provide comprehensive autism services to our clients, including early screening and diagnostic testing (using the ADOS-2), ABA, behavioral parent training, and individual and group counseling. Our services also include sibling support groups, family counseling, social skills groups, and school consultation.
Welcome to First Children! We are a multi-site psychological, counseling, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) center serving children, adolescents, and young adults with autism and their families. At our STRIVE centers, we provide comprehensive autism services to our clients, including early screening and diagnostic testing (using the ADOS-2), ABA, behavioral parent training, and individual and group counseling. Our services also include sibling support groups, family counseling, social skills groups, and school consultation.
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
Peter J. Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, FOT
Verified Verified
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
If you are and adult feeling overwhelmed and need the skills and support to meet life's challenges or a parenworried about your child or teenager. I can help. I have been working with adults, children, and families for over 30 years. My focus is to help you become happy, good, supportive partners and parents. I work with children to help them mature, trust, and communicate, and adults to help them understand the needs of their partners and children. I have a great deal of experience with divorce, co-parenting, conflict, developmental needs, sexuality issues, and learning challenges.
If you are and adult feeling overwhelmed and need the skills and support to meet life's challenges or a parenworried about your child or teenager. I can help. I have been working with adults, children, and families for over 30 years. My focus is to help you become happy, good, supportive partners and parents. I work with children to help them mature, trust, and communicate, and adults to help them understand the needs of their partners and children. I have a great deal of experience with divorce, co-parenting, conflict, developmental needs, sexuality issues, and learning challenges.
Gianna Speranza
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
You have a child with special needs, and it’s become exhausting and disheartening to see challenges surface as your child grows and interacts with others. As a parent, you see all the strengths of your kid, yet they struggle to engage with other children. Sometimes, loud noises or sudden changes in routine make your child feel overwhelmed, prompting them to cover their ears, scream, or retreat away, setting them further apart from their peers. It breaks your heart. You want to make things better for your child, but you’re running out of steam and ideas. The school can only do so much, and you know it is simply not enough.
You have a child with special needs, and it’s become exhausting and disheartening to see challenges surface as your child grows and interacts with others. As a parent, you see all the strengths of your kid, yet they struggle to engage with other children. Sometimes, loud noises or sudden changes in routine make your child feel overwhelmed, prompting them to cover their ears, scream, or retreat away, setting them further apart from their peers. It breaks your heart. You want to make things better for your child, but you’re running out of steam and ideas. The school can only do so much, and you know it is simply not enough.
Resilience by Irene Kovacs-Donaghy
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
I believe in the philosophy of Resilience; a trait we are not born with but all have the ability to develop. In addition to processing past and present issues; I also focus on building coping skills and strategies to maintain wellness: "Life doesn't get easier we become more resilient. Each choice and challenge increases our knowledge and strength".
I believe in the philosophy of Resilience; a trait we are not born with but all have the ability to develop. In addition to processing past and present issues; I also focus on building coping skills and strategies to maintain wellness: "Life doesn't get easier we become more resilient. Each choice and challenge increases our knowledge and strength".
Anna D. Kilmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
I work with people to heal from trauma, whether that presents as PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, or any of the persistent difficulties that may show up after living through one or more experiences that compromise your basic sense of safety. You deserve peace and joy, and I can help you find it!
I work with people to heal from trauma, whether that presents as PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, or any of the persistent difficulties that may show up after living through one or more experiences that compromise your basic sense of safety. You deserve peace and joy, and I can help you find it!
More Therapists Nearby
As executive director (1985 to 2010), I lead the Center for Autism.
For over 20 years, I've specialized in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, providing treatment to children and adults. I assist individuals with exploring and expanding their abilities in the areas of adaptive social-emotional development, self awareness, and confidence building to allow them to meet the demands of daily living. I work closely with family members in developing home strategies including behavioral supports, environmental modifications, and visual supports, that promote growth and independence. Therapy goals focus on the formation of skills that allow the individual with ASD to improve their quality of life.
As executive director (1985 to 2010), I lead the Center for Autism.
For over 20 years, I've specialized in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, providing treatment to children and adults. I assist individuals with exploring and expanding their abilities in the areas of adaptive social-emotional development, self awareness, and confidence building to allow them to meet the demands of daily living. I work closely with family members in developing home strategies including behavioral supports, environmental modifications, and visual supports, that promote growth and independence. Therapy goals focus on the formation of skills that allow the individual with ASD to improve their quality of life.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families, schools, and community agencies in the areas of anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, group counseling, school/peer conflicts, grief/loss, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship dynamics.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 15+ years. My Master's is from Gwynedd-Mercy University and I am completing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families, schools, and community agencies in the areas of anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, group counseling, school/peer conflicts, grief/loss, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship dynamics.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 15+ years. My Master's is from Gwynedd-Mercy University and I am completing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University.
I am also a certified autism clinical specialist; however, I do not diagnose autism.
Hi! I'm Dr. Joanne and I work with children and adults in a warm and caring environment. I help individuals who who are experiencing the effects of stress and anxiety as well as life transitions. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques and behavior interventions. In my work with adults, I provide a warm and caring environment for individuals to express their feelings while giving them the tools they need to live their best life.
I am also a certified autism clinical specialist; however, I do not diagnose autism.
Hi! I'm Dr. Joanne and I work with children and adults in a warm and caring environment. I help individuals who who are experiencing the effects of stress and anxiety as well as life transitions. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques and behavior interventions. In my work with adults, I provide a warm and caring environment for individuals to express their feelings while giving them the tools they need to live their best life.
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Chalfont, PA 18914
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I am a Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist with nearly 30 years of experience. In our practice, The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling, I specialize in providing consultation, guidance and evaluations services to children and adults in many different areas, including head injuries (including concussions evaluation and management), ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders neurological issues, and learning problems. Understanding the issues is key before effective interventions can be done.
I am a Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist with nearly 30 years of experience. In our practice, The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling, I specialize in providing consultation, guidance and evaluations services to children and adults in many different areas, including head injuries (including concussions evaluation and management), ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders neurological issues, and learning problems. Understanding the issues is key before effective interventions can be done.
I also have extensive experience in conducting assessments, including autism and ADHD.
There are many reasons why people struggle in their daily lives, which leads them to seek out therapy. Sometimes, it's because people want to learn more about themselves or cope with stressors and relationships; other times, it's due to specific issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, etc.) that are starting to significantly impact their lives and functioning. We will work together to get to the root of the issue and learn ways to cope with these challenges so you can find fulfillment in your life. It is incredibly meaningful to me to help others learn about themselves and grow through the therapeutic process.
I also have extensive experience in conducting assessments, including autism and ADHD.
There are many reasons why people struggle in their daily lives, which leads them to seek out therapy. Sometimes, it's because people want to learn more about themselves or cope with stressors and relationships; other times, it's due to specific issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, etc.) that are starting to significantly impact their lives and functioning. We will work together to get to the root of the issue and learn ways to cope with these challenges so you can find fulfillment in your life. It is incredibly meaningful to me to help others learn about themselves and grow through the therapeutic process.
Sometimes life is not easy- it doesn't go the way we planned. Talking to someone who understands is the first step when things become difficult. I am a Certified School Counselor and Certified Student Assistance Counselor with 35 years of experience in assessing and addressing substance use, anxiety, depression, school avoidance, OCD, learning issues, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
Sometimes life is not easy- it doesn't go the way we planned. Talking to someone who understands is the first step when things become difficult. I am a Certified School Counselor and Certified Student Assistance Counselor with 35 years of experience in assessing and addressing substance use, anxiety, depression, school avoidance, OCD, learning issues, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
Matthew Yeager Licensed Behavior Specialist
MS, LBS
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446 (Online Only)
I passionately specialize in treating depression and anxiety using a behavioral approach. In the field for 10 years, I have an extensive background working with individuals as well as families. I am warm and genuine. I use a strength-based model to my sessions; when you're ready, we will talk about what is bothering you, but I am also interested to learn about the whole-you. You are not defined by your struggles, but together, we may discover valuable lessons to take from them. My patients receive 110% of my full attention and consideration. Join me for a free 1 hour session.
I passionately specialize in treating depression and anxiety using a behavioral approach. In the field for 10 years, I have an extensive background working with individuals as well as families. I am warm and genuine. I use a strength-based model to my sessions; when you're ready, we will talk about what is bothering you, but I am also interested to learn about the whole-you. You are not defined by your struggles, but together, we may discover valuable lessons to take from them. My patients receive 110% of my full attention and consideration. Join me for a free 1 hour session.
I practice both flexibility and adaptability in building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients and finding the evidenced-based approach that will best resonate with their experiences. I provide therapy and evaluation services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. With evaluations/assessment, I seek to help my client learn and understand their own strengths first and foremost. I enjoy helping families to modify their communication styles with one another in order to ensure that all parties feel heard and improve their relationships overall.
I practice both flexibility and adaptability in building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients and finding the evidenced-based approach that will best resonate with their experiences. I provide therapy and evaluation services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. With evaluations/assessment, I seek to help my client learn and understand their own strengths first and foremost. I enjoy helping families to modify their communication styles with one another in order to ensure that all parties feel heard and improve their relationships overall.
It is my goal to provide a safe environment for my clients to express their feelings and explore their story. Human connection is a simple yet powerful gift you deserve, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I give my clients the space to examine and process their feelings. By building our therapeutic relationship, we can begin identifying your needs and values. I know change can feel isolating, difficult, and even impossible at times, but I'm here to help. I believe everyone is capable of living the life they want and deserve, and sometimes we just need someone to walk with us, hear us and understand our struggle.
It is my goal to provide a safe environment for my clients to express their feelings and explore their story. Human connection is a simple yet powerful gift you deserve, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I give my clients the space to examine and process their feelings. By building our therapeutic relationship, we can begin identifying your needs and values. I know change can feel isolating, difficult, and even impossible at times, but I'm here to help. I believe everyone is capable of living the life they want and deserve, and sometimes we just need someone to walk with us, hear us and understand our struggle.
Allow me to help you over those hurdles that life puts in our paths. Let me assist you to an emotionally healthy lifestyle where you can enjoy life to it's fullest ! I treat individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is working with children, teens and adults, who are transitioning through their lives, and those who may be suffering from anxiety, and panic disorder, when road blocks interfere with life's journeys. I am a Psychoeducational Therapist/ Behavioral Specialist and a Certified Biofeedback Specialist; and have been practicing with successful outcomes for over 35+ years.
Allow me to help you over those hurdles that life puts in our paths. Let me assist you to an emotionally healthy lifestyle where you can enjoy life to it's fullest ! I treat individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is working with children, teens and adults, who are transitioning through their lives, and those who may be suffering from anxiety, and panic disorder, when road blocks interfere with life's journeys. I am a Psychoeducational Therapist/ Behavioral Specialist and a Certified Biofeedback Specialist; and have been practicing with successful outcomes for over 35+ years.
Evidence-Based Therapy with a Love-Based Approach. As a clinical psychologist devoted to practicing therapy, I value the individual strengths, perspectives and histories of each person. I believe that healing and growth occur within the context of a supportive and accepting relationship. Thus, I am highly attentive to our therapeutic relationship and more importantly, to the relationships that already exist in your life. Our work is tailored to your specific needs, strengths and values. My approach to therapy is relational, parts-based, trauma-informed and love-based.
Evidence-Based Therapy with a Love-Based Approach. As a clinical psychologist devoted to practicing therapy, I value the individual strengths, perspectives and histories of each person. I believe that healing and growth occur within the context of a supportive and accepting relationship. Thus, I am highly attentive to our therapeutic relationship and more importantly, to the relationships that already exist in your life. Our work is tailored to your specific needs, strengths and values. My approach to therapy is relational, parts-based, trauma-informed and love-based.
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.
As a certified school psychologist and licensed psychologist, I provide psychological evaluations for individuals across the lifespan as well as therapy services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families, addressing a spectrum of needs and presenting issues. Since you’re here, you probably have questions that you are looking to answer, need guidance and support around a developmental or psychiatric concern, desire a safe space for exploration and development, or maybe a combination of these. So, how can I help?
As a certified school psychologist and licensed psychologist, I provide psychological evaluations for individuals across the lifespan as well as therapy services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families, addressing a spectrum of needs and presenting issues. Since you’re here, you probably have questions that you are looking to answer, need guidance and support around a developmental or psychiatric concern, desire a safe space for exploration and development, or maybe a combination of these. So, how can I help?
See more therapy options for Montgomeryville
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Montgomeryville
- Ambler
- Blue Bell
- Chalfont
- Hatboro
- Horsham
- Jamison
- Lansdale
- Lower Gwynedd
- North Wales
- Telford
- Warminster
- Warrington
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.