Autism Therapists in Sterling, VA

Photo of Megan Urbassik, PhD, Psychologist
Megan Urbassik
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Is your child or teen struggling? Are you searching for an evaluation to diagnose dyslexia, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or other concerns and decide what to do next? Do you need help navigating the world of mental health care and its intersection with public, private, or homeschool? I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychological and psychoeducational evaluations, as well as individual therapy. I am here to help!
Is your child or teen struggling? Are you searching for an evaluation to diagnose dyslexia, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or other concerns and decide what to do next? Do you need help navigating the world of mental health care and its intersection with public, private, or homeschool? I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychological and psychoeducational evaluations, as well as individual therapy. I am here to help!
(571) 446-4594 View (571) 446-4594
Photo of Patrick Nisco, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Patrick Nisco
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20166
Nisco has over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing concerns of ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, Autism and Asperger's, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, trauma, anger and stress management, and legal issues.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
Nisco has over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing concerns of ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, Autism and Asperger's, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, trauma, anger and stress management, and legal issues.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
(703) 596-8238 View (703) 596-8238
Photo of Margaret Wong, PhD, Psychologist
Margaret Wong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20164
Dr. Wong specializes in working with children with autism spectrum disorders (e.g., Autism, Asperger's Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified), disruptive behavioral disorders (e.g., Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder), anxiety disorder, mood disorders (e.g., Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Tourette's Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and learning issues in the schools through therapy and psychological evaluations.
Dr. Wong specializes in working with children with autism spectrum disorders (e.g., Autism, Asperger's Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified), disruptive behavioral disorders (e.g., Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder), anxiety disorder, mood disorders (e.g., Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Tourette's Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and learning issues in the schools through therapy and psychological evaluations.
(571) 339-5342 View (571) 339-5342
Photo of Morgan Moore, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
In moments of challenge, many facets of our lives converge: our attachments, nervous systems, neurology, environment, and relationships. We all strive to equip ourselves with a diverse toolkit to confront these moments. Therapy offers a pathway for self-exploration and a chance to reshape our approach to life, fostering a more regulated state to manifest our best selves, anchored in self-regulation, attunement, and connection. Behavior serves as a form of communication, and understanding an individual's neurology can be pivotal in meeting their needs effectively.
In moments of challenge, many facets of our lives converge: our attachments, nervous systems, neurology, environment, and relationships. We all strive to equip ourselves with a diverse toolkit to confront these moments. Therapy offers a pathway for self-exploration and a chance to reshape our approach to life, fostering a more regulated state to manifest our best selves, anchored in self-regulation, attunement, and connection. Behavior serves as a form of communication, and understanding an individual's neurology can be pivotal in meeting their needs effectively.
(540) 202-1715 View (540) 202-1715
Photo of Michael Arthur, MA, MPhil, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Arthur
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MPhil
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20164
Acceptance leads to solutions but denial leads to confusion. My name is Michael Arthur. I am a therapist and a teacher who combines Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Spirituality to support my patients. I have been working with diverse groups, children and adults who experience Mental Health illnesses, deal with substance abuse problems and those with developmental disabilities using empirically supported treatments and evidence-based practices for over 12 years now. I help achieve patients’ goals by using empathy, cultural-responsiveness, and person-centeredness among other things.
Acceptance leads to solutions but denial leads to confusion. My name is Michael Arthur. I am a therapist and a teacher who combines Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Spirituality to support my patients. I have been working with diverse groups, children and adults who experience Mental Health illnesses, deal with substance abuse problems and those with developmental disabilities using empirically supported treatments and evidence-based practices for over 12 years now. I help achieve patients’ goals by using empathy, cultural-responsiveness, and person-centeredness among other things.
(571) 339-3098 View (571) 339-3098
Photo of Marjorie Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marjorie Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20165
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 25 years, working with a variety of individuals, couples, families and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My holistic approach to psychotherapy tailors treatment to each client's individual needs and goals. I have worked with clients of all ages who struggle with a wide variety of issues. I believe that significant healing can take place within the therapeutic relationship and I am adept at creating a safe and comfortable space within which each client's personal growth process is respected and supported.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 25 years, working with a variety of individuals, couples, families and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My holistic approach to psychotherapy tailors treatment to each client's individual needs and goals. I have worked with clients of all ages who struggle with a wide variety of issues. I believe that significant healing can take place within the therapeutic relationship and I am adept at creating a safe and comfortable space within which each client's personal growth process is respected and supported.
(703) 596-0425 View (703) 596-0425
Photo of Sophie Kosar, MS, LMFT-R
Sophie Kosar
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MS, LMFT-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
I fundamentally believe that every client has what it takes to live a beautiful, healthy, fulfilling life—so my job is to help you work through the things holding you back from embodying your true strength and power. I specialize in trauma treatment, neurodiversity, relationship skills and enrichment, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I love using creativity and humor to help you find new ways of dealing with problems, no matter how old or new. I work with teens (12+), adults, and couples/adult relationships.
I fundamentally believe that every client has what it takes to live a beautiful, healthy, fulfilling life—so my job is to help you work through the things holding you back from embodying your true strength and power. I specialize in trauma treatment, neurodiversity, relationship skills and enrichment, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I love using creativity and humor to help you find new ways of dealing with problems, no matter how old or new. I work with teens (12+), adults, and couples/adult relationships.
(703) 936-4161 View (703) 936-4161
Photo of Jalynn Norling, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jalynn Norling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20166  (Online Only)
Hey there! I'm Jalynn, a licensed therapist that specializes in expressive therapy for teens and adults. I am passionate about providing creative and personalized interventions that cater to your unique goals. That's why I've crafted a therapeutic space that utilizes a variety of creative and expressive interventions. Whether you're a teen or an adult, life can present its share of challenges and transitions, leaving you feeling overwhelmed. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your inner thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, helping you find clarity and empowerment on your unique journey.
Hey there! I'm Jalynn, a licensed therapist that specializes in expressive therapy for teens and adults. I am passionate about providing creative and personalized interventions that cater to your unique goals. That's why I've crafted a therapeutic space that utilizes a variety of creative and expressive interventions. Whether you're a teen or an adult, life can present its share of challenges and transitions, leaving you feeling overwhelmed. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your inner thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, helping you find clarity and empowerment on your unique journey.
(540) 329-2280 View (540) 329-2280
Photo of Maria E Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria E Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
WELCOME "Offering bilingual-bicultural services" call for a CONSULTATION. My mission is to support families, couples, and individuals developing healthy relationships. I work collaboratively with you and your family. I will provide practical insights, techniques, and resources, via counseling, education, and support.
WELCOME "Offering bilingual-bicultural services" call for a CONSULTATION. My mission is to support families, couples, and individuals developing healthy relationships. I work collaboratively with you and your family. I will provide practical insights, techniques, and resources, via counseling, education, and support.
(703) 686-8275 View (703) 686-8275
Photo of Alicia Cohen, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20164  (Online Only)
Alicia Cohen is a clinical social worker who practices telehealth psychotherapy in Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia. Her specialty is with neurodivergent individuals, people in ethical non-monogamous relationships, the kink/BDSM community, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Alicia also specializes in working with adults who have been marginalized by their body, gender, and sexuality.
Alicia Cohen is a clinical social worker who practices telehealth psychotherapy in Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia. Her specialty is with neurodivergent individuals, people in ethical non-monogamous relationships, the kink/BDSM community, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Alicia also specializes in working with adults who have been marginalized by their body, gender, and sexuality.
(240) 200-0937 View (240) 200-0937
Photo of Ashlea Hopkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlea Hopkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20166
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
(540) 217-4270 View (540) 217-4270
Benjamin Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20164
Dr. Williams earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Texas Tech University, with a neuropsychology internship at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center and 2-year neuropsychology fellowship at UVA Health System in Charlottesville. His training is in accord with the Houston Conference Guidelines on Specialty Education and Training in Clinical Neuropsychology. He has received supervision and tutelage from, among others, Dr. Jeffrey Barth, Ph.D., ABPP-Cn, a well-respected figure in the area of traumatic brain injury/concussion. Dr. Williams has worked in a multitude of clinical settings including academic hospitals/health science centers, a rehabilitation hospital, a concussion clinic, the VA system, inpatient psychiatric facilities, a psychology department clinic, a student counseling center, and private practice.
Dr. Williams earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Texas Tech University, with a neuropsychology internship at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center and 2-year neuropsychology fellowship at UVA Health System in Charlottesville. His training is in accord with the Houston Conference Guidelines on Specialty Education and Training in Clinical Neuropsychology. He has received supervision and tutelage from, among others, Dr. Jeffrey Barth, Ph.D., ABPP-Cn, a well-respected figure in the area of traumatic brain injury/concussion. Dr. Williams has worked in a multitude of clinical settings including academic hospitals/health science centers, a rehabilitation hospital, a concussion clinic, the VA system, inpatient psychiatric facilities, a psychology department clinic, a student counseling center, and private practice.
(703) 723-2999 View (703) 723-2999
Photo of Abigail Levrini - Psych Ed Connections of Northern Virginia, PhD, Psychologist
Psych Ed Connections of Northern Virginia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Looking for a proactive, goal-driven approach to therapy for ADHD, depression or anxiety? We are about action and getting things done. We use a pragmatic, behavioral, results-oriented approach. By focusing on strategies and tools to use in your daily life to improve behavior, we can connect your actions, thoughts, and emotions in new ways. Our program is a nationally recognized intervention and the topic of PEC owner, Dr. Abigail Levrini's second book, "ADHD Coaching: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals" (APA, 2015). We specialize in ADHD and Executive Function Disorders and related issues like depression and anxiety.
Looking for a proactive, goal-driven approach to therapy for ADHD, depression or anxiety? We are about action and getting things done. We use a pragmatic, behavioral, results-oriented approach. By focusing on strategies and tools to use in your daily life to improve behavior, we can connect your actions, thoughts, and emotions in new ways. Our program is a nationally recognized intervention and the topic of PEC owner, Dr. Abigail Levrini's second book, "ADHD Coaching: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals" (APA, 2015). We specialize in ADHD and Executive Function Disorders and related issues like depression and anxiety.
(571) 306-0952 View (571) 306-0952
Photo of Rachel Schuchart, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Schuchart
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20166
Dr. Rachel Schuchart received her Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch New England Graduate School and her MA in Psychology from Saint Michael's College. Upon completion of her degree, she was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Saint Elizabeth's Hospital. This advanced training took place in the forensic unit at the Hospital. At Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, Dr. Schuchart conducted psychosexual, violence risk, neuropsychological and psychological evaluations with adults. She co-facilitated mental health, substance abuse, sex offender, and competency restoration groups. Dr. Schuchart also provided clients with psychotherapy.
Dr. Rachel Schuchart received her Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch New England Graduate School and her MA in Psychology from Saint Michael's College. Upon completion of her degree, she was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Saint Elizabeth's Hospital. This advanced training took place in the forensic unit at the Hospital. At Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, Dr. Schuchart conducted psychosexual, violence risk, neuropsychological and psychological evaluations with adults. She co-facilitated mental health, substance abuse, sex offender, and competency restoration groups. Dr. Schuchart also provided clients with psychotherapy.
(571) 992-0019 View (571) 992-0019
Photo of Natalia Lueck - in Luck Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
in Luck Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Waitlist for new clients
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire us for this very important job, our focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire us for this very important job, our focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
(703) 997-6641 View (703) 997-6641
Photo of Eleanor Huff, LPC, RN, NCC, CCTP, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleanor Huff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RN, NCC, CCTP, CATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20164
Seeking therapy is taking steps toward your well-being and can be a difficult and courageous first step. I would like to support that and to assist in empowering you to find your resiliency. I believe we all have resiliency, meaning the power to move forward, adjust, make changes and withstand the difficult times, sometimes we need help finding it within us. I can help with that! I look forward to talking with you.
Seeking therapy is taking steps toward your well-being and can be a difficult and courageous first step. I would like to support that and to assist in empowering you to find your resiliency. I believe we all have resiliency, meaning the power to move forward, adjust, make changes and withstand the difficult times, sometimes we need help finding it within us. I can help with that! I look forward to talking with you.
(703) 999-8620 View (703) 999-8620
Photo of Jessica Kreisler, LCSW-S, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Kreisler
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Welcome! I am a dedicated and compassionate professionaI that holds dual Master’s degrees in Social Work and Conflict Analysis and Resolution, equipping me with a unique skill set to address various aspects of human experience. With several years of hands-on experience, I've had the privilege of working with diverse clients, including children, adolescents, families, and survivors of sexual assault. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in harnessing each individual's strengths while providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Welcome! I am a dedicated and compassionate professionaI that holds dual Master’s degrees in Social Work and Conflict Analysis and Resolution, equipping me with a unique skill set to address various aspects of human experience. With several years of hands-on experience, I've had the privilege of working with diverse clients, including children, adolescents, families, and survivors of sexual assault. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in harnessing each individual's strengths while providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(540) 506-3020 View (540) 506-3020
Photo of Liz Fernandez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Fernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20163
(571) 487-8312 View (571) 487-8312

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Urbassik, PhD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robert Urbassik
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Potomac Falls, VA 20165
Dr. Urbassik specializes in psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children and adolescents. He has significant experience working across the developmental lifespan of children regarding educational (e.g., specific learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, school entrance), neurodevelopmental (e.g., autism, ADHD), and social-emotional concerns. He was formally trained at Penn State University's school psychology program before completing an APA-accredited internship at Loudoun County Public Schools. In addition to his evaluation work, Dr. Urbassik is also an Assistant Research Professor at a Research 1 University.
Dr. Urbassik specializes in psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children and adolescents. He has significant experience working across the developmental lifespan of children regarding educational (e.g., specific learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, school entrance), neurodevelopmental (e.g., autism, ADHD), and social-emotional concerns. He was formally trained at Penn State University's school psychology program before completing an APA-accredited internship at Loudoun County Public Schools. In addition to his evaluation work, Dr. Urbassik is also an Assistant Research Professor at a Research 1 University.
(571) 496-9394 View (571) 496-9394
Photo of Desiree L. Vyas, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Desiree L. Vyas
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Potomac Falls, VA 20165
With over a decade of experience, Dr. Vyas specializes in comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations of children and adolescents. She has extensive experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., learning disorders, AD/HD, autism), as well as behavioral and social/emotional difficulties. Dr. Vyas trained at Howard University where she studied the field of psychology from a minority perspective, completed an externship at Children’s National Medical Center within the pediatric neuropsychology division, as well as an APA-approved internship at Loudoun County Public Schools.
With over a decade of experience, Dr. Vyas specializes in comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations of children and adolescents. She has extensive experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., learning disorders, AD/HD, autism), as well as behavioral and social/emotional difficulties. Dr. Vyas trained at Howard University where she studied the field of psychology from a minority perspective, completed an externship at Children’s National Medical Center within the pediatric neuropsychology division, as well as an APA-approved internship at Loudoun County Public Schools.
(202) 946-1395 View (202) 946-1395
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.