Photo of Donald Caudle, PhD, Psychologist
Donald Caudle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77381
Caudle is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues, anxiety, and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Dr. Donald D. Caudle, a licensed psychologist based in Texas, specializes in meeting the unique evaluation needs of children, adolescents, and young adults in The Woodlands and Houston areas. With a focus on neuropsychological, ADHD, psychoeducational, and psychological evaluations, Dr. Caudle is committed to helping his patients’ overcome obstacles that hinder their personal and academic growth. His approach is thorough and compassionate, ensuring that each individual receives the support and understanding they need to thrive. Dr.
Caudle is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues, anxiety, and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Dr. Donald D. Caudle, a licensed psychologist based in Texas, specializes in meeting the unique evaluation needs of children, adolescents, and young adults in The Woodlands and Houston areas. With a focus on neuropsychological, ADHD, psychoeducational, and psychological evaluations, Dr. Caudle is committed to helping his patients’ overcome obstacles that hinder their personal and academic growth. His approach is thorough and compassionate, ensuring that each individual receives the support and understanding they need to thrive. Dr.
(855) 628-5301 View (855) 628-5301

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura K Eskridge, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Laura K Eskridge
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I have spent 12+ years evaluating children for Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD and learning difficulties.
Do you worry about your child or wonder if his behavior is similar to other kids his age? Has she experienced trouble at school or with friends? If so, psychological evaluation may be right for your family. I specialize in evaluating children and adolescent behavioral, social, emotional and academic problems. I help parents understand their child's unique strengths and needs and I identify how to help every child succeed at school and home. As a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in a School Psychology, I specialize in clinical diagnosis as well as special education eligibility and intervention.
I have spent 12+ years evaluating children for Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD and learning difficulties.
Do you worry about your child or wonder if his behavior is similar to other kids his age? Has she experienced trouble at school or with friends? If so, psychological evaluation may be right for your family. I specialize in evaluating children and adolescent behavioral, social, emotional and academic problems. I help parents understand their child's unique strengths and needs and I identify how to help every child succeed at school and home. As a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in a School Psychology, I specialize in clinical diagnosis as well as special education eligibility and intervention.
(281) 816-6056 View (281) 816-6056
Photo of Ian Baker Thompson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian Baker Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
(281) 623-4454 View (281) 623-4454
Photo of Katie McMahon - Rise Counseling & Wellness Center, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rise Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77354
Our clinicians are trained in trauma informed treatment and offer a wide variety of specialties such as: behavioral analysis, autism, exposure to childhood abuse & divorce.
Rise Counseling and Wellness offers individual therapy, family and couples therapy and play therapy for young children. We strive to reduce the impact of mental illness, family conflict, and trauma, increasing the resilience of our clients and the world we live in. We believe each person has the innate ability to rise above and grow from life's challenges. We are committed to being your partner in your journey to overcome. We approach therapy from a systemic perspective, recognizing the significance of generational experiences, society and culture on your life today.
Our clinicians are trained in trauma informed treatment and offer a wide variety of specialties such as: behavioral analysis, autism, exposure to childhood abuse & divorce.
Rise Counseling and Wellness offers individual therapy, family and couples therapy and play therapy for young children. We strive to reduce the impact of mental illness, family conflict, and trauma, increasing the resilience of our clients and the world we live in. We believe each person has the innate ability to rise above and grow from life's challenges. We are committed to being your partner in your journey to overcome. We approach therapy from a systemic perspective, recognizing the significance of generational experiences, society and culture on your life today.
(936) 463-0280 View (936) 463-0280
Photo of Michelle Garcia, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Garcia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77387
I provide community based and Telehealth services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities as well as other diagnoses like AD/HD, depression, anxiety, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I offer testing to look at diagnosis, treatment or school services, as well as for obtaining citizenship/immigration purposes, veterans benefits, guardianship, and other court purposes. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I provide consultation to organizations and give presentations on many topics. I offer counseling and behavioral services and conduct groups, including a PEERS social skills group.
I provide community based and Telehealth services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities as well as other diagnoses like AD/HD, depression, anxiety, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I offer testing to look at diagnosis, treatment or school services, as well as for obtaining citizenship/immigration purposes, veterans benefits, guardianship, and other court purposes. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I provide consultation to organizations and give presentations on many topics. I offer counseling and behavioral services and conduct groups, including a PEERS social skills group.
(281) 713-9559 View (281) 713-9559
Photo of Veronica Agyapomaa, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Agyapomaa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77388
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Expressing our thoughts and emotions aloud are powerful steps toward gaining perspective. I specialize and have experience in working with children (aged 10+), families, couples, and individuals navigating complex life transitions such as school, death, divorce, IVF, miscarriage, chronic illnesses, and grief. In my sessions with couples and families, we work to fostering new ways to relate to each other. I also work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, assisting families or working individually towards bonding, understanding, and strengths-based growth.
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Expressing our thoughts and emotions aloud are powerful steps toward gaining perspective. I specialize and have experience in working with children (aged 10+), families, couples, and individuals navigating complex life transitions such as school, death, divorce, IVF, miscarriage, chronic illnesses, and grief. In my sessions with couples and families, we work to fostering new ways to relate to each other. I also work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, assisting families or working individually towards bonding, understanding, and strengths-based growth.
(346) 762-2672 View (346) 762-2672
Photo of Grace Psychological Services Pllc - Grace Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, LP, LSSP, NCSP, Psychologist
Grace Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP, NCSP
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Hello, we are Grace Psychological Services! Here we strive to make everyone feel comfortable and accepted to show up authentically themselves. We have a team of counselors and psychologists who specialize in working with neurodivergent affirming practices to help individuals to better understand themselves and their unique needs. We provide psychological evaluations to help individuals find their next step in their journey by providing in depth information about how they learn, any possible psychological diagnoses, and recommendations to improve quality of life. Hablamos español.
Hello, we are Grace Psychological Services! Here we strive to make everyone feel comfortable and accepted to show up authentically themselves. We have a team of counselors and psychologists who specialize in working with neurodivergent affirming practices to help individuals to better understand themselves and their unique needs. We provide psychological evaluations to help individuals find their next step in their journey by providing in depth information about how they learn, any possible psychological diagnoses, and recommendations to improve quality of life. Hablamos español.
(281) 815-0899 View (281) 815-0899
Photo of Stephanie Gregory - Prevail Assessment & Wellness, PC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prevail Assessment & Wellness, PC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Through standardized psychometric testing and clinical evaluation, help determine if there is an official formal mental health diagnosis or academic condition that needs specialized treatment or not. Testing helps your counselor, Primary Care Physician, or Psychiatrist improve treatment plan or gain work, school, or university accommodations. Genetic Testing offers diet, lifestyle, wellness, or supplement recommendations instead of traditional medications. If you are looking for a holistic approach to treatment, genetic testing is key! Genetic Testing helps us identifying genetic mutations that maybe the underlining cause.
Through standardized psychometric testing and clinical evaluation, help determine if there is an official formal mental health diagnosis or academic condition that needs specialized treatment or not. Testing helps your counselor, Primary Care Physician, or Psychiatrist improve treatment plan or gain work, school, or university accommodations. Genetic Testing offers diet, lifestyle, wellness, or supplement recommendations instead of traditional medications. If you are looking for a holistic approach to treatment, genetic testing is key! Genetic Testing helps us identifying genetic mutations that maybe the underlining cause.
(936) 443-9629 View (936) 443-9629
Photo of Lauren Pasqua, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Pasqua
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Are you worried about your child? Struggling with meltdowns, crying, yelling, or even aggressive outbursts? As a parent it breaks your heart to see your child so overwhelmed by their feelings. You know they feel things very deeply, but the dramatic highs and lows are exhausting. You wish they could calm themselves down and cope with big feelings well. Seeing your child so upset makes you feel like a failure as a parent. You worry their behavior keeps them from making friends. You long for peace and harmony in your home. Every book or person has a different idea of how to help. You feel lost and confused on what to do next.
Are you worried about your child? Struggling with meltdowns, crying, yelling, or even aggressive outbursts? As a parent it breaks your heart to see your child so overwhelmed by their feelings. You know they feel things very deeply, but the dramatic highs and lows are exhausting. You wish they could calm themselves down and cope with big feelings well. Seeing your child so upset makes you feel like a failure as a parent. You worry their behavior keeps them from making friends. You long for peace and harmony in your home. Every book or person has a different idea of how to help. You feel lost and confused on what to do next.
(281) 783-3612 View (281) 783-3612
Photo of Dr. Shaun Lester, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Shaun Lester
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Really, I am a professional tool. I consider myself an instument to be used in your life to help you redesign, renovate, remodel, and/or rebuild your life. Everyone, at some point in their life, feels like the walls are caving in. Typically, we are good do-it-yourselfers and make repairs easily. However, life can get out of hand and the repairs can get too big for us to fix it alone. Let me help you assess the damage, redesign your blueprint, and equip you with the skills to..."Git-R-Done." It would be my honor to work alongside you.
Really, I am a professional tool. I consider myself an instument to be used in your life to help you redesign, renovate, remodel, and/or rebuild your life. Everyone, at some point in their life, feels like the walls are caving in. Typically, we are good do-it-yourselfers and make repairs easily. However, life can get out of hand and the repairs can get too big for us to fix it alone. Let me help you assess the damage, redesign your blueprint, and equip you with the skills to..."Git-R-Done." It would be my honor to work alongside you.
(713) 234-1142 View (713) 234-1142
Photo of Melissa Mignogna, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Mignogna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Is your family going through a challenging legal situation that is affecting you and your children? Are you dealing with painful dynamics related to divorce, custody dispute, or parental alienation? Many therapists avoid potential court involvement at any cost, but not me! I am a forensic child and adolescent psychologist. This means that not only am I very well-trained in helping kids, adolescents and their families with a range of mental health concerns but also that I am completely comfortable meeting with attorneys/mediators and even going to court if you need me to testify. The legal stuff won't interfere with me helping YOU.
Is your family going through a challenging legal situation that is affecting you and your children? Are you dealing with painful dynamics related to divorce, custody dispute, or parental alienation? Many therapists avoid potential court involvement at any cost, but not me! I am a forensic child and adolescent psychologist. This means that not only am I very well-trained in helping kids, adolescents and their families with a range of mental health concerns but also that I am completely comfortable meeting with attorneys/mediators and even going to court if you need me to testify. The legal stuff won't interfere with me helping YOU.
(936) 261-7992 View (936) 261-7992
Photo of Melissa Moore - Moore Mental Health & Behavioral Services, PLLC, PsyD, LSSP, Psychologist
Moore Mental Health & Behavioral Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tomball, TX 77337
Moore Mental Health & Behavioral Services offers psychological testing and evaluations, individual counseling, family support, risk assessments and behavior consultations. Unhealthy mindsets and dysfunctional behavior patterns may result in many personal problems within your relationships. Some of those problems are as follows: family dysfunction, marital discord, anger outbursts, poor coping skills, poor peer relations or social skills, health-related problems, strained or conflictual relationships between parent-child, romantic relationship conflicts/break-ups etc. We are able to help treat a wide variety of symptoms.
Moore Mental Health & Behavioral Services offers psychological testing and evaluations, individual counseling, family support, risk assessments and behavior consultations. Unhealthy mindsets and dysfunctional behavior patterns may result in many personal problems within your relationships. Some of those problems are as follows: family dysfunction, marital discord, anger outbursts, poor coping skills, poor peer relations or social skills, health-related problems, strained or conflictual relationships between parent-child, romantic relationship conflicts/break-ups etc. We are able to help treat a wide variety of symptoms.
(281) 712-7450 View (281) 712-7450
Photo of Catherine Abrahamson, PhD, LP, LSSP, Psychologist
Catherine Abrahamson
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Not accepting new clients
My speciality is in in evidence-based assessment and treatment of behavior disorders, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, and autism.
Are you having difficulty coping with life's challenges? Do you think you may have a mental health condition and want to be evaluated? As a licensed psychologist, I provide assessment services to accurately diagnose psychological concerns and therapy services to treat psychological disorders.
My speciality is in in evidence-based assessment and treatment of behavior disorders, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, and autism.
Are you having difficulty coping with life's challenges? Do you think you may have a mental health condition and want to be evaluated? As a licensed psychologist, I provide assessment services to accurately diagnose psychological concerns and therapy services to treat psychological disorders.
(210) 761-6479 View (210) 761-6479

Online Therapists

Photo of Charles Hallmark - Hallmark Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Hallmark Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a licensed psychologist, I bring warmth, empathy, and years of experience with evidence-based treatments; with a focus on both adolescents and adults, I specialize in evidence-based therapy, including EMDR, for a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, autism, grief, ADHD, and complex trauma (CPTSD). My approach is integrative and neurodivergent-affirmative, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs of every individual. Please note email and/or the Headway portal are the most effective ways to contact me.
Welcome! As a licensed psychologist, I bring warmth, empathy, and years of experience with evidence-based treatments; with a focus on both adolescents and adults, I specialize in evidence-based therapy, including EMDR, for a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, autism, grief, ADHD, and complex trauma (CPTSD). My approach is integrative and neurodivergent-affirmative, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs of every individual. Please note email and/or the Headway portal are the most effective ways to contact me.
(281) 957-1939 View (281) 957-1939
Photo of Page Elgin - abcs therapy, MEd, MS, LPC, RPT, TX LSSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
abcs therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, RPT, TX LSSP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058
Page has extensive experience and training in evaluating and treating individuals with: emotional/behavioral difficulties such as anger and emotional dysregulation; oppositional behaviors; ADHD; anxiety and depression; adjustment disorders/trauma/grief; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
Counseling services focus on helping families and individuals build skills that increase healthy behaviors and foster resiliency. Symptoms and challenges are addressed using a CBT, DBT, Adlerian, and/or a client centered ‘strengths and solutions’ based approach. Emphasis in sessions include gaining awareness of negative self-talk and habits, learning tools to change behaviors, and rewriting new scripts that illuminate strengths, acceptance, and self-discipline. Sand Tray techniques and Play Therapy are additional approaches to help clients process emotions and progress in their goals.
Page has extensive experience and training in evaluating and treating individuals with: emotional/behavioral difficulties such as anger and emotional dysregulation; oppositional behaviors; ADHD; anxiety and depression; adjustment disorders/trauma/grief; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
Counseling services focus on helping families and individuals build skills that increase healthy behaviors and foster resiliency. Symptoms and challenges are addressed using a CBT, DBT, Adlerian, and/or a client centered ‘strengths and solutions’ based approach. Emphasis in sessions include gaining awareness of negative self-talk and habits, learning tools to change behaviors, and rewriting new scripts that illuminate strengths, acceptance, and self-discipline. Sand Tray techniques and Play Therapy are additional approaches to help clients process emotions and progress in their goals.
(478) 606-6492 View (478) 606-6492
Photo of Carolyn Ha, PhD, Psychologist
Carolyn Ha
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
I specialize in effective treatments for children with Autism, providing social skills training, behavior modification, and ABA.
I am a Licensed Psychologist specializing in scientifically tested treatments for children and adolescents with challenging behaviors (tantrums, risky behaviors, school issues), difficulty with mood, anxiety disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I provide Autism evaluations using gold-standard assessments (ADOS-2), as well as comprehensive psychological, psycho-educational, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) evaluations.
I specialize in effective treatments for children with Autism, providing social skills training, behavior modification, and ABA.
I am a Licensed Psychologist specializing in scientifically tested treatments for children and adolescents with challenging behaviors (tantrums, risky behaviors, school issues), difficulty with mood, anxiety disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I provide Autism evaluations using gold-standard assessments (ADOS-2), as well as comprehensive psychological, psycho-educational, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) evaluations.
(832) 913-8747 View (832) 913-8747
Photo of Amy Rollo - Cy-Hope Counseling Center, MA, LPC-S, LSSP, LMFT, Counselor
Cy-Hope Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSSP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
Additionally, we have expertise working with children on the autism spectrum, emotional and behavioral difficulties, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression & self-harm.
From the moment a client enters our grounds, we strive to provide a warm, therapeutic, and inviting atmosphere. We have a variety of talented counselors and speech therapists with various specialties that allows us to match you with the therapist that is a fit for your needs. Whether you are faced with challenging and stressful relationships within your family, a personal need of a struggling child or family member, or an individual need for yourself, we have the right counselors for you. We look forward to working with you!
Additionally, we have expertise working with children on the autism spectrum, emotional and behavioral difficulties, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression & self-harm.
From the moment a client enters our grounds, we strive to provide a warm, therapeutic, and inviting atmosphere. We have a variety of talented counselors and speech therapists with various specialties that allows us to match you with the therapist that is a fit for your needs. Whether you are faced with challenging and stressful relationships within your family, a personal need of a struggling child or family member, or an individual need for yourself, we have the right counselors for you. We look forward to working with you!
(281) 730-8538 View (281) 730-8538
Photo of Jill Foley Torres, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Jill Foley Torres
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
Now Accepting New Clients. Foley Torres Dr. Torres offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychological Evaluations. She also provides supervision for interns/post-doctoral students . Dr. Torres is accustomed to treating clients with mental health disorders such as Trichotillomania, gender dysphoria, OCD, Panic Disorder, Depression, and other serious mental health struggles. Dr. Torres has a special interest in helping preteens, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. Her clinic is open to people of any nationality, race religion, gender and sexual orientation. Saturday appointments are available. Call 832-705-0912 for an appt.
Now Accepting New Clients. Foley Torres Dr. Torres offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychological Evaluations. She also provides supervision for interns/post-doctoral students . Dr. Torres is accustomed to treating clients with mental health disorders such as Trichotillomania, gender dysphoria, OCD, Panic Disorder, Depression, and other serious mental health struggles. Dr. Torres has a special interest in helping preteens, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. Her clinic is open to people of any nationality, race religion, gender and sexual orientation. Saturday appointments are available. Call 832-705-0912 for an appt.
(281) 317-7971 View (281) 317-7971
Photo of Gina Evans - Total Wellness Assessment & Counseling Center, PhD, LPA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, Psychologist
Total Wellness Assessment & Counseling Center
Psychologist, PhD, LPA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098
We offer individual, family and group counseling and psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for: ADHD, Autism.
Our treatment approach is based on over 20 years of providing testing and treatment services. In every case, our primary treatment goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills to improve health, academic performance, day-to-day functioning and sense of well-being and self-efficacy. We make accessing our services easy by having two convenient locations, evening and weekend hours, and providing virtual and in office services (3801 Kirby Dr. Suite 311 Houston, TX 77098 and 8820 Will Clayton Parkway Suite A Humble, TX 77338).
We offer individual, family and group counseling and psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for: ADHD, Autism.
Our treatment approach is based on over 20 years of providing testing and treatment services. In every case, our primary treatment goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills to improve health, academic performance, day-to-day functioning and sense of well-being and self-efficacy. We make accessing our services easy by having two convenient locations, evening and weekend hours, and providing virtual and in office services (3801 Kirby Dr. Suite 311 Houston, TX 77098 and 8820 Will Clayton Parkway Suite A Humble, TX 77338).
(832) 402-6539 View (832) 402-6539
Photo of Shlon A Smith, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shlon A Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598
Dr. Shlon Smith (she/her/hers) is a postdoctoral fellow dedicated to supporting the growth of adolescents as they navigate transitions, newfound autonomy, relationships, and interpersonal development through a person-centered, multicultural, and collaborative therapeutic approach. Dr. Smith is also committed to supporting the educational needs of children and adolescents by providing comprehensive psychological evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, and Social/Emotional concerns.
Dr. Shlon Smith (she/her/hers) is a postdoctoral fellow dedicated to supporting the growth of adolescents as they navigate transitions, newfound autonomy, relationships, and interpersonal development through a person-centered, multicultural, and collaborative therapeutic approach. Dr. Smith is also committed to supporting the educational needs of children and adolescents by providing comprehensive psychological evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, and Social/Emotional concerns.
(346) 572-9598 View (346) 572-9598
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.