Autism Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Amanda Coffey - Behavior Network, Inc., PhD, BCBA-D, CBIS, NADD-CC, LBA
Behavior Network, Inc.
PhD, BCBA-D, CBIS, NADD-CC, LBA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Behavior Network, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing effective evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices for individuals across the lifespan from children to adults. Our clients typically come to us with severe behaviors; they may have a diagnosis that includes Autism, Aspergers, Intellectual Disability or Mental Illness.
Behavior Network, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing effective evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices for individuals across the lifespan from children to adults. Our clients typically come to us with severe behaviors; they may have a diagnosis that includes Autism, Aspergers, Intellectual Disability or Mental Illness.
(469) 713-1758 View (469) 713-1758
Photo of Tracy Merino, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
Tracy Merino
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults in crisis, focusing on a wide spectrum of issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, anger, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and behavioral problems.
Only telehealth at this time. I aim to help clients learn skills that will help them manage their emotions, effectively cope with distress, and develop healthier relationships. I also enjoy helping parents and families' support loved ones through validation, limit-setting, and emotional regulation skills. I emphasize a warm, non-judgmental approach to client care, helping clients reach practical, concrete solutions to complex problems. I believe every individual has the potential to achieve success within his/her personal, professional and relationship life.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults in crisis, focusing on a wide spectrum of issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, anger, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and behavioral problems.
Only telehealth at this time. I aim to help clients learn skills that will help them manage their emotions, effectively cope with distress, and develop healthier relationships. I also enjoy helping parents and families' support loved ones through validation, limit-setting, and emotional regulation skills. I emphasize a warm, non-judgmental approach to client care, helping clients reach practical, concrete solutions to complex problems. I believe every individual has the potential to achieve success within his/her personal, professional and relationship life.
(972) 362-6697 View (972) 362-6697
Photo of Catherine Varvel, MA, LPC, Associa
Catherine Varvel
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC, Associa
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am especially passionate about working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people who are neuro-diverse, including Autism spectrum disorders and ADHD .
Hi there – I’m so glad you’re here! No matter what brought you to this page, I am proud of you. Taking the first step toward seeking help is not easy, and I am honored to be a small part of your story. I received my Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling, which places an emphasis on counseling specific to people with disabilities. I strive to create a safe, trauma-informed space for my clients where you feel heard, valued, and empowered – with a gentle nudge here and there.
I am especially passionate about working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people who are neuro-diverse, including Autism spectrum disorders and ADHD .
Hi there – I’m so glad you’re here! No matter what brought you to this page, I am proud of you. Taking the first step toward seeking help is not easy, and I am honored to be a small part of your story. I received my Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling, which places an emphasis on counseling specific to people with disabilities. I strive to create a safe, trauma-informed space for my clients where you feel heard, valued, and empowered – with a gentle nudge here and there.
(972) 928-0293 View (972) 928-0293
Photo of Tania Kader, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tania Kader
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and I obtained my Masters of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults on a variety of struggles such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender/identity, autism, parenting/family issues, as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and I obtained my Masters of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults on a variety of struggles such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender/identity, autism, parenting/family issues, as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
(817) 477-6142 View (817) 477-6142
Photo of Amanda Logan Hoppe, PhD, LPA, BCBA-D, Psychological Associate
Amanda Logan Hoppe
Psychological Associate, PhD, LPA, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Hoppe's services currently include comprehensive psychological evaluations for autism, ADHD, and specific learning disabilities.
Dr. Hoppe specializes in autism spectrum disorder and ADHD diagnostic evaluations with children and adolescents. She individualizes her evaluations based on each family’s specific needs and takes a behavior-driven approach to the assessment process. Logan is also a doctoral level behavior analyst and has extensive clinical (11+ years) and research experience in the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents.
Hoppe's services currently include comprehensive psychological evaluations for autism, ADHD, and specific learning disabilities.
Dr. Hoppe specializes in autism spectrum disorder and ADHD diagnostic evaluations with children and adolescents. She individualizes her evaluations based on each family’s specific needs and takes a behavior-driven approach to the assessment process. Logan is also a doctoral level behavior analyst and has extensive clinical (11+ years) and research experience in the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents.
(972) 736-9917 View (972) 736-9917
Photo of Blake Thomas, MA
Blake Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I also enjoy working with teens and parents of neurodivergent children that experience ADHD or Autism.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas under the supervision of Laurie Todd, MS, LPC-S. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling and hold a Master of Divinity Degree. I strive to create a safe, caring, and compassionate therapeutic environment where clients are able to explore life issues and struggles. I desire to help teens, adults, and couples work through and find freedom from issues that they have been dealing with for days, decades, or anywhere in between. I've also enjoyed working with clients from numerous backgrounds and cultures to help them reach their goals.
I also enjoy working with teens and parents of neurodivergent children that experience ADHD or Autism.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas under the supervision of Laurie Todd, MS, LPC-S. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling and hold a Master of Divinity Degree. I strive to create a safe, caring, and compassionate therapeutic environment where clients are able to explore life issues and struggles. I desire to help teens, adults, and couples work through and find freedom from issues that they have been dealing with for days, decades, or anywhere in between. I've also enjoyed working with clients from numerous backgrounds and cultures to help them reach their goals.
(469) 609-6251 x2022 View (469) 609-6251 x2022
Photo of Tiffany Damewood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Damewood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As an AuDHD individual (autistic & ADHD) and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As an AuDHD individual (autistic & ADHD) and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
(469) 634-3033 View (469) 634-3033
Photo of Jeanine Roddy - Frisco Feeding & Speech Therapy, MA, CCC, SLP
Frisco Feeding & Speech Therapy
MA, CCC, SLP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Executive Functioning; ADHD; Pragmatic Social Skills; Fluency & Stuttering; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Oral Motor Feeding; Behavioral Feeding Challenges; Social Skills Therapy; Speech Therapy; Feeding Therapy; Dyslexia Services.
Jeanine Roddy, M.A., CCC-SLP., has successfully practiced speech therapy, feeding therapy and communication skills training for over 12 years. Jeanine and our certified SLP's are focused on the evaluation and treatment of preschool and school age children with executive functioning issues related to ADHD, speech and language impairments, feeding disorders, and social skills training. If you are interested in reading about what parents say about Jeanine and our speech therapists you can check our Google reviews or click here: https://goo.gl/maps/h8YkBaj3XMN2
Executive Functioning; ADHD; Pragmatic Social Skills; Fluency & Stuttering; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Oral Motor Feeding; Behavioral Feeding Challenges; Social Skills Therapy; Speech Therapy; Feeding Therapy; Dyslexia Services.
Jeanine Roddy, M.A., CCC-SLP., has successfully practiced speech therapy, feeding therapy and communication skills training for over 12 years. Jeanine and our certified SLP's are focused on the evaluation and treatment of preschool and school age children with executive functioning issues related to ADHD, speech and language impairments, feeding disorders, and social skills training. If you are interested in reading about what parents say about Jeanine and our speech therapists you can check our Google reviews or click here: https://goo.gl/maps/h8YkBaj3XMN2
(469) 629-7299 View (469) 629-7299
Ivan Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MMT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Plenty of kids without autism may have some of these problems too, because of their life experience and emotional state.
At the Child Behavior Center we work with you, and with your child. To help a child, we must help mom and dad too! We assist you in navigating the ups and downs of frustrating, often puzzling child behavior. Specializing in treatment for high functioning autism (Aspergers Syndrome in the past,) PDD (pervasive developmental delay), and many children with behavioral differences and challenges, we design treatment plans individualized for neuroatypical, developmentally challenged children, children with high anxiety, anger, aggression, and sensory overload, among others. A natural partner with these problems is often social rejection.
Plenty of kids without autism may have some of these problems too, because of their life experience and emotional state.
At the Child Behavior Center we work with you, and with your child. To help a child, we must help mom and dad too! We assist you in navigating the ups and downs of frustrating, often puzzling child behavior. Specializing in treatment for high functioning autism (Aspergers Syndrome in the past,) PDD (pervasive developmental delay), and many children with behavioral differences and challenges, we design treatment plans individualized for neuroatypical, developmentally challenged children, children with high anxiety, anger, aggression, and sensory overload, among others. A natural partner with these problems is often social rejection.
(972) 905-3767 View (972) 905-3767
Photo of Charleen Wilder, PsyD, Psychologist
Charleen Wilder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I am also experienced in conducting psychological assessment of autism, personality disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention difficulties, learning concerns, and intellectual disabilities for children and adults.
I specialize and enjoy working with neurodiverse adolescents and adults that have challenges or identities related to autism, anxiety, ADHD, and the LGTBQ community. I lead groups for transgender youth and for parents of transgender people. I value a holistic, collaborative approach that takes into consideration every aspect of the client’s life (e.g., medical history, religion/spirituality, psycho-social stressors, family dynamics). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and interpersonal strategies to help each individual better manage their symptoms.
I am also experienced in conducting psychological assessment of autism, personality disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention difficulties, learning concerns, and intellectual disabilities for children and adults.
I specialize and enjoy working with neurodiverse adolescents and adults that have challenges or identities related to autism, anxiety, ADHD, and the LGTBQ community. I lead groups for transgender youth and for parents of transgender people. I value a holistic, collaborative approach that takes into consideration every aspect of the client’s life (e.g., medical history, religion/spirituality, psycho-social stressors, family dynamics). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and interpersonal strategies to help each individual better manage their symptoms.
(469) 457-4394 View (469) 457-4394
Photo of Robin Newman, PsyD, Psychologist
Robin Newman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
I specialize in treating children, teens, couples, and families struggling with a variety of issues including self harming behaviors, sex addiction, grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurological/develipmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and tourettes.
Often times life throws a curveball our way and catches us unprepared for the path that now lies in front of us. Wherher its a significant loss, a major life adjustment, illness, anxiety, or relationship struggles, we all need help from time to time. As a licensed Christian psychologist, I value walking lifes most challenging paths alongside you and helping tou find solutions to your current situation. You don't have to grieve alone. You don't have to figure your next step out by your self. Help is available today for those who want healing from painful heart wounds
I specialize in treating children, teens, couples, and families struggling with a variety of issues including self harming behaviors, sex addiction, grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurological/develipmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and tourettes.
Often times life throws a curveball our way and catches us unprepared for the path that now lies in front of us. Wherher its a significant loss, a major life adjustment, illness, anxiety, or relationship struggles, we all need help from time to time. As a licensed Christian psychologist, I value walking lifes most challenging paths alongside you and helping tou find solutions to your current situation. You don't have to grieve alone. You don't have to figure your next step out by your self. Help is available today for those who want healing from painful heart wounds
(719) 568-9496 View (719) 568-9496
Photo of Deborah Netz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Netz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Deborah Netz, LPC- I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I work with children struggling in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma and ADD/ADHD. I have significant experience in working with children struggling with behavioral issues as well as those who are on the autism spectrum. I also work with children suffering from grief related to losing a loved one.
Deborah Netz, LPC- I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I work with children struggling in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma and ADD/ADHD. I have significant experience in working with children struggling with behavioral issues as well as those who are on the autism spectrum. I also work with children suffering from grief related to losing a loved one.
(214) 432-1627 View (214) 432-1627
Photo of Kimberlee K Flatt, PhD, LPC, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberlee K Flatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I specialize in neurodiversity, from Autism to ADHD, as well as providing support to the families that love these brilliant & interesting thinkers.
I work with a variety of clients with a variety of needs. The thing that most of them have in common is a feeling of being a bit stuck. Many of my clients are experiencing transitions in life, transitions into new work environments or life phases. Other clients are needing to​ make a transition & I can help them weigh their options & process their choices. I believe at my core that none of us were intended to do life alone. My clients’ goals are usually pretty simple, they want to be more present in their lives and move forward in a meaningful way.
I specialize in neurodiversity, from Autism to ADHD, as well as providing support to the families that love these brilliant & interesting thinkers.
I work with a variety of clients with a variety of needs. The thing that most of them have in common is a feeling of being a bit stuck. Many of my clients are experiencing transitions in life, transitions into new work environments or life phases. Other clients are needing to​ make a transition & I can help them weigh their options & process their choices. I believe at my core that none of us were intended to do life alone. My clients’ goals are usually pretty simple, they want to be more present in their lives and move forward in a meaningful way.
(214) 817-3591 View (214) 817-3591
Photo of Glynis Park, MS, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glynis Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 6 to 12 and Adults.
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 6 to 12 and Adults.
(469) 824-9647 View (469) 824-9647
Photo of Kristy Money - McKinney Neuropsychology, PsyD, Psychologist
McKinney Neuropsychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
At McKinney Neuropsychology we provide mental health services, namely psychological evaluations and neuropsychological testing to identify conditions such as autism, ADHD, learning disability, anxiety disorders, mood disruption, personality disorders, and various others.
Our highly-trained and passionate staff consists of licensed psychologist, Dr. Dr. Kristy Money, and soon to be licensed Dr. Michelle McNally. These psychologist provide psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and consultation services. As of September 30, 2024 Dr. Phillip E Morris is no longer associated with the practice.
At McKinney Neuropsychology we provide mental health services, namely psychological evaluations and neuropsychological testing to identify conditions such as autism, ADHD, learning disability, anxiety disorders, mood disruption, personality disorders, and various others.
Our highly-trained and passionate staff consists of licensed psychologist, Dr. Dr. Kristy Money, and soon to be licensed Dr. Michelle McNally. These psychologist provide psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and consultation services. As of September 30, 2024 Dr. Phillip E Morris is no longer associated with the practice.
(469) 425-2202 View (469) 425-2202
Photo of Jennifer M Smith, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer M Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find the time or energy to seek the counseling support you need? My 100% online practice offers a convenient and secure solution for those who want to improve their well-being from the comfort of their own home. Through HIPAA compliant video calls, I can help you work towards your goals and overcome your trials, no matter where you are. As a counselor with extensive experience working with individuals and families affected by ADD/ADHD, parenting challenges, depression, abuse, Autism, anxiety, relationship issues, and low self-esteem, I am passionate about helping you navigate the complexities of life.
Are you struggling to find the time or energy to seek the counseling support you need? My 100% online practice offers a convenient and secure solution for those who want to improve their well-being from the comfort of their own home. Through HIPAA compliant video calls, I can help you work towards your goals and overcome your trials, no matter where you are. As a counselor with extensive experience working with individuals and families affected by ADD/ADHD, parenting challenges, depression, abuse, Autism, anxiety, relationship issues, and low self-esteem, I am passionate about helping you navigate the complexities of life.
(214) 225-2752 View (214) 225-2752
Photo of David L. Falkstein - David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes several other psychologists and therapists. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools.
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes several other psychologists and therapists. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools.
(214) 427-1468 View (214) 427-1468
Photo of Susan E Blandino, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan E Blandino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Helping children and teens is what I'm most passionate about. I am a licensed psychologist with a specialty in clinical child psychology. I feel so fortunate to have been helping children and their families since 1997. I specialize in psychological evaluations and therapy for school aged children and adolescents. My evaluations typically address: ADHD/ADD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Some of the clients that I tend to work best with include gifted children, those with anxiety disorders, and children on the autism spectrum.
Helping children and teens is what I'm most passionate about. I am a licensed psychologist with a specialty in clinical child psychology. I feel so fortunate to have been helping children and their families since 1997. I specialize in psychological evaluations and therapy for school aged children and adolescents. My evaluations typically address: ADHD/ADD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Some of the clients that I tend to work best with include gifted children, those with anxiety disorders, and children on the autism spectrum.
(972) 471-9065 View (972) 471-9065
Photo of Morgan Grahovec, PhD, Psychologist
Morgan Grahovec
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I have experience evaluating the following conditions: ADHD; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Brain Tumors; Cancer; Cerebral Palsy; Concussion; Craniosynostosis; Diabetes; Epilepsy (Seizures); Exposure to Toxic Substances; Fetal Alcohol Syndrome; Genetic Disorders; Giftedness; Hydrocephalus; Intellectual Disability; Language Disorders; Low Birth Weight; Mood Disorders; Prematurity; Psychosis; Sickle Cell Anemia; Specific Learning Disorders; Spina Bifida; Stroke; Traumatic Brain Injury.
I provide neuropsychological testing to children, adolescents and young adults to give an overview of cognitive abilities to determine individual strengths and weaknesses. These abilities include: Intellectual Functioning (IQ); Academic Achievement; Learning & Memory; Attention & Executive Functioning; Language & Phonological Processing; Visual-Spatial Skills & Visual-Motor Integration; Fine Motor Coordination; Adaptive Functioning; Emotional & Behavioral Functioning; Social Skills & Pragmatic (Social) Language. Using these results, I can help coordinate care with your child's other medical providers, suggest school recommendations (including IEP/504 Plans), and provide referrals to specialists and professionals that can help your child maximize his or her functioning and potential.
I have experience evaluating the following conditions: ADHD; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Brain Tumors; Cancer; Cerebral Palsy; Concussion; Craniosynostosis; Diabetes; Epilepsy (Seizures); Exposure to Toxic Substances; Fetal Alcohol Syndrome; Genetic Disorders; Giftedness; Hydrocephalus; Intellectual Disability; Language Disorders; Low Birth Weight; Mood Disorders; Prematurity; Psychosis; Sickle Cell Anemia; Specific Learning Disorders; Spina Bifida; Stroke; Traumatic Brain Injury.
I provide neuropsychological testing to children, adolescents and young adults to give an overview of cognitive abilities to determine individual strengths and weaknesses. These abilities include: Intellectual Functioning (IQ); Academic Achievement; Learning & Memory; Attention & Executive Functioning; Language & Phonological Processing; Visual-Spatial Skills & Visual-Motor Integration; Fine Motor Coordination; Adaptive Functioning; Emotional & Behavioral Functioning; Social Skills & Pragmatic (Social) Language. Using these results, I can help coordinate care with your child's other medical providers, suggest school recommendations (including IEP/504 Plans), and provide referrals to specialists and professionals that can help your child maximize his or her functioning and potential.
(214) 643-8786 View (214) 643-8786
Photo of Daralyn A. Plains, PhD, Psychologist
Daralyn A. Plains
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
The following services are available: Consultation, School Readiness Assessments, ADHD Evaluations, Evaluations for Dyslexia, Psychoeducational Evaluations, Evaluations for Disturbances in Mood and Behavior, Autism Evaluations, and Preoperative Psychological Evaluations.
My mission is to optimize the educational and life experiences of children, adolescents, and young adults. Optimization is pursued by becoming familiarized with each client's unique emotional, behavioral, and learning profile through assessments which identify patterns of strengths as well as areas which are in need of improvement. Behavioral, emotional, and cognitive functioning is assessed within the context of environmental, social and physiological factors and conditions. The ultimate goal is to instill hope and confidence in my clients and provide them with the information needed to advocate for their well-being.
The following services are available: Consultation, School Readiness Assessments, ADHD Evaluations, Evaluations for Dyslexia, Psychoeducational Evaluations, Evaluations for Disturbances in Mood and Behavior, Autism Evaluations, and Preoperative Psychological Evaluations.
My mission is to optimize the educational and life experiences of children, adolescents, and young adults. Optimization is pursued by becoming familiarized with each client's unique emotional, behavioral, and learning profile through assessments which identify patterns of strengths as well as areas which are in need of improvement. Behavioral, emotional, and cognitive functioning is assessed within the context of environmental, social and physiological factors and conditions. The ultimate goal is to instill hope and confidence in my clients and provide them with the information needed to advocate for their well-being.
(469) 275-4770 View (469) 275-4770
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.