Autism Therapists in Federal Way, WA
![Photo of Carly Pascoe, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4acd5386-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, parents, families, and groups. In addition, I also act as a consultant to various schools in the King County area. My education and clinical training is focused on providing treatment and assessment services to children, adults, and families presenting with a diverse range of emotional, medical, and neuro-psychological difficulties. Furthermore, I have worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum for over 15 years. I utilize both a Cognitive Behavioral & Family Systems approach in my clinical work.
I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, parents, families, and groups. In addition, I also act as a consultant to various schools in the King County area. My education and clinical training is focused on providing treatment and assessment services to children, adults, and families presenting with a diverse range of emotional, medical, and neuro-psychological difficulties. Furthermore, I have worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum for over 15 years. I utilize both a Cognitive Behavioral & Family Systems approach in my clinical work.
![Photo of April Walter, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40054ddd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At The Center we provide diagnosis, treatment, education/employment assistance and housing assistance for those on the Autism Spectrum.
I specialize in working with individuals and families struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disorders and other Neuropsychological or Psychological Issues.
At The Center we provide diagnosis, treatment, education/employment assistance and housing assistance for those on the Autism Spectrum.
I specialize in working with individuals and families struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disorders and other Neuropsychological or Psychological Issues.
![Photo of Carrie Sheppard - MindSource Center, LLC, LMHC, MEd, LBAT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca276b8-9a6b-49dc-a584-046f05ebfdea/3/320x400.jpeg)
MindSource Center, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, MEd, LBAT
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
Parenting a child with autism or other developmental delays can be challenging. The usual strategies that work with other children often do not work well at all with a child who struggles with sensory processing differences, anxiety or other issues that go along with neurodevelopment conditions. Expert guidance from our autism specialists can help you feel and be more effective as a parent and fully enjoy your relationship with your child. Our behavioral services (ABA) is designed to accelerate your child's development and build lifelong skills for learning and independence.
Parenting a child with autism or other developmental delays can be challenging. The usual strategies that work with other children often do not work well at all with a child who struggles with sensory processing differences, anxiety or other issues that go along with neurodevelopment conditions. Expert guidance from our autism specialists can help you feel and be more effective as a parent and fully enjoy your relationship with your child. Our behavioral services (ABA) is designed to accelerate your child's development and build lifelong skills for learning and independence.
![Photo of Seth Hanke, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a679ba-f917-441b-840b-66f5ab9ce7f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with clients who want to explore their life experiences. Stepping into therapy is an acknowledgement that something isn't adding up to what you want it to be, and my passion is helping you on your journey to become who you want to be. I work with individuals aged 10 and up on issues such as depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, relationship struggles, family conflict, school struggles, existential issues, or adjustment problems. Ultimately, whatever your goal is in therapy is my goal as well. There is nothing more fulfilling to me than seeing you meet your goals and growing towards who you want to be.
I enjoy working with clients who want to explore their life experiences. Stepping into therapy is an acknowledgement that something isn't adding up to what you want it to be, and my passion is helping you on your journey to become who you want to be. I work with individuals aged 10 and up on issues such as depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, relationship struggles, family conflict, school struggles, existential issues, or adjustment problems. Ultimately, whatever your goal is in therapy is my goal as well. There is nothing more fulfilling to me than seeing you meet your goals and growing towards who you want to be.
![Photo of Luisa Bakhoum, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2a3b9be-8f84-4b1d-818a-730d194b9b8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
My lived experience and training merge to create a helpful skillset that has a positive impact on my work. I work with people who are neurodivergent themselves and/ or people who are trying to understand how to best support a loved one who is neurodivergent. In my work with couples and families, my clients are wanting to understand how to navigate different brain types often alongside navigating very different lived experiences, and different social backgrounds.
My lived experience and training merge to create a helpful skillset that has a positive impact on my work. I work with people who are neurodivergent themselves and/ or people who are trying to understand how to best support a loved one who is neurodivergent. In my work with couples and families, my clients are wanting to understand how to navigate different brain types often alongside navigating very different lived experiences, and different social backgrounds.
![Photo of Margaret Mathai, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/689821e2-b9a9-4469-a713-abab96df2fca/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer comprehensive support and services to individuals in need. My expertise includes working with adults, adolescents, men, women, and new immigrants, ensuring a broad range of care tailored to diverse needs. For individuals who are unhoused and face substance use challenges, I provide immediate assistance by securing shelter and food. I emphasize safety first and advocate for my clients to help them develop a plan to improve their overall situation.
I offer comprehensive support and services to individuals in need. My expertise includes working with adults, adolescents, men, women, and new immigrants, ensuring a broad range of care tailored to diverse needs. For individuals who are unhoused and face substance use challenges, I provide immediate assistance by securing shelter and food. I emphasize safety first and advocate for my clients to help them develop a plan to improve their overall situation.
![Photo of Michell Brockman, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/161aac3d-d1c9-4a3a-b921-02f2ce7b308c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
![Photo of Britney Molina, LMFTA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/253e8817-dafa-4b1c-8453-8df57a52d9d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Britney believes that who we are, and how we show up is greatly influenced by our families for this reason Britney practices therapy from a systemic lens. Britney believes that although we are a product of our families and their histories we can re-author our stories and create new meanings. Britney practices therapy from a humanistic and experiential approach. She brings in a more playful approach and will sometimes use humor when working with clients.
Britney believes that who we are, and how we show up is greatly influenced by our families for this reason Britney practices therapy from a systemic lens. Britney believes that although we are a product of our families and their histories we can re-author our stories and create new meanings. Britney practices therapy from a humanistic and experiential approach. She brings in a more playful approach and will sometimes use humor when working with clients.
![Photo of Amelia McCormick - LightHeart Associates - Federal Way, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6463fb77-9cc0-48f7-8f29-63d1402172aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
LightHeart provides therapy, medication management & assessment for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
LightHeart provides therapy, medication management & assessment for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
Therapy is where you come to reflect on life decisions and experiences and I am here for you through those moments. I would describe a session as being insightful and meaningful even if it is in subtle ways. We may spend some time talking about your daily life, or big things; some days it may feel like a big breakthrough happened and others, a casual conversation. All the things brought up are important to allow you and I to build a therapeutic relationship and to feel comfortable. Everything that you talk about contributes to your growth, even if it is not tangible yet.
Therapy is where you come to reflect on life decisions and experiences and I am here for you through those moments. I would describe a session as being insightful and meaningful even if it is in subtle ways. We may spend some time talking about your daily life, or big things; some days it may feel like a big breakthrough happened and others, a casual conversation. All the things brought up are important to allow you and I to build a therapeutic relationship and to feel comfortable. Everything that you talk about contributes to your growth, even if it is not tangible yet.
![Photo of Angelica Paulo Friedmann, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8eeac8a4-fa5e-4f1a-958b-ae5d4d95f717/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelica Paulo Friedmann
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023
My ideal client seeks to deeply understand and transform their life experiences, addressing challenges such as anxiety, transitions, or trauma. They are motivated by a desire to uncover and strengthen their true selves, seeking deeper self-understanding and emotional resilience. We engage collaboratively in therapy, exploring personal narratives and cultural influences to foster a richer, more authentic life. Together, we strive for empowerment, navigating complexities and celebrating the rediscovery of inherent strengths.
My ideal client seeks to deeply understand and transform their life experiences, addressing challenges such as anxiety, transitions, or trauma. They are motivated by a desire to uncover and strengthen their true selves, seeking deeper self-understanding and emotional resilience. We engage collaboratively in therapy, exploring personal narratives and cultural influences to foster a richer, more authentic life. Together, we strive for empowerment, navigating complexities and celebrating the rediscovery of inherent strengths.
15 Second Videos
LightHeart Associates - Federal Way
Terri Cole
Leia Cheyanne Bellinger
Colette Lynch-Sajo
![Photo of Jennifer Kapelos, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd9feb3d-4033-426b-a098-1acf8b00e5ae/1/320x400.png)
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in trauma recovery and mental wellness. With a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and its profound effects on individuals, I offer a safe and nurturing space for clients to embark on their healing journey. Many of my clients have experienced trauma during childhood, leading to conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dissociation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or debilitating depression and anxiety. Together, we'll explore the depths of your resilience, reclaim your sense of self, and emerge stronger than ever before.
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in trauma recovery and mental wellness. With a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and its profound effects on individuals, I offer a safe and nurturing space for clients to embark on their healing journey. Many of my clients have experienced trauma during childhood, leading to conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dissociation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or debilitating depression and anxiety. Together, we'll explore the depths of your resilience, reclaim your sense of self, and emerge stronger than ever before.
![Photo of Polly Hawver, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29babe95-1185-4b67-8815-6cabb60a2634/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children, caregivers, and families to support children and teens in overcoming anxiety, emotional regulation issues, depression, school refusal, and sensory processing concerns. I love helping children with big feelings through life’s inevitable changes as they struggle to manage their systems in school and at home. Serving children involves treating the entire system and collaborating with caregivers, other providers, and families. If you and your family are struggling with your child or teens mental health, I would love to see how I may be able to help!
I work with children, caregivers, and families to support children and teens in overcoming anxiety, emotional regulation issues, depression, school refusal, and sensory processing concerns. I love helping children with big feelings through life’s inevitable changes as they struggle to manage their systems in school and at home. Serving children involves treating the entire system and collaborating with caregivers, other providers, and families. If you and your family are struggling with your child or teens mental health, I would love to see how I may be able to help!
![Photo of Adena Lorena, LMHA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe3d4b08-07cf-42aa-aa95-091bcfdb6620/1/320x400.png)
I am here to offer my sensitivity and empathy around the struggles you might face in life. My goal is to offer a guiding and helping hand so as to traverse mental health challenges together- no matter how difficult they may be. Life can be challenging at times, and I invite you to reach out and get some support on your path. I look forward to meeting and eventually working with you if you find our connection to be the right fit.
I am here to offer my sensitivity and empathy around the struggles you might face in life. My goal is to offer a guiding and helping hand so as to traverse mental health challenges together- no matter how difficult they may be. Life can be challenging at times, and I invite you to reach out and get some support on your path. I look forward to meeting and eventually working with you if you find our connection to be the right fit.
![Photo of Terri Cole, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c80b6edd-aab6-479a-b24c-a74793eac91f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Sound Clarity Counseling! I'll work collaboratively with you to enhance your quality of life by combining insight, neutral support and guidance. You’ll gain relief by developing healthier ways of coping, expanding inner growth and strengthening relational bonds. I work with couples, children, families and individuals from a integrated approach that considers all the experiences, relationships and connections that may be affecting areas you wish to change.
Welcome to Sound Clarity Counseling! I'll work collaboratively with you to enhance your quality of life by combining insight, neutral support and guidance. You’ll gain relief by developing healthier ways of coping, expanding inner growth and strengthening relational bonds. I work with couples, children, families and individuals from a integrated approach that considers all the experiences, relationships and connections that may be affecting areas you wish to change.
![Photo of Leia Cheyanne Bellinger, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7b8b13c-ce25-43a6-b82a-6ad285812853/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are often aware of their struggles but may not possess the right skills in combatting plaguing thoughts or self-doubt. My clients can feel extremely aware of their space and understand that healing is a process that isn't always linear. I believe that my clients are able to be honest about their expectations of counseling and opportunities for us to collaborate towards care together.
My clients are often aware of their struggles but may not possess the right skills in combatting plaguing thoughts or self-doubt. My clients can feel extremely aware of their space and understand that healing is a process that isn't always linear. I believe that my clients are able to be honest about their expectations of counseling and opportunities for us to collaborate towards care together.
![Photo of Lindsay Arbanas, MSW, LICSW, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60826f95-8447-4bff-a87c-2f9253c8973b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about being present with individuals as they experience disappointment, pain, despair, and joy in life and relationships. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe together we will discover the power and insight already within you. We undergo a process of examining your inner life, dreams, fantasies, and imagination to discover the inspiration that will allow you to live an authentic life. My approach is individually-focused and relationship-driven. Whatever challenges you are facing; that with a bit of goodwill and openness, much can be uncovered in a relatively short period of time.
I am passionate about being present with individuals as they experience disappointment, pain, despair, and joy in life and relationships. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe together we will discover the power and insight already within you. We undergo a process of examining your inner life, dreams, fantasies, and imagination to discover the inspiration that will allow you to live an authentic life. My approach is individually-focused and relationship-driven. Whatever challenges you are facing; that with a bit of goodwill and openness, much can be uncovered in a relatively short period of time.
![Photo of Logan Carrington Renggli, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7571ea26-4e89-4313-820b-89cba7318f52/3/320x400.jpeg)
Logan Carrington Renggli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003 (Online Only)
My name is Logan Renggli and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My mission is to bring attention to the importance of mental health and to nurture strong mental health practices in our society. I plan to bring previously taboo topics to the surface and out in the open through conversation and public speaking and to normalize every day experiences that so often make us feel marginalized. My goal is to help people love themselves a little bit more and struggle a little bit less. For the past four years Logan has been working with families, individuals, and children in the private sector.
My name is Logan Renggli and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My mission is to bring attention to the importance of mental health and to nurture strong mental health practices in our society. I plan to bring previously taboo topics to the surface and out in the open through conversation and public speaking and to normalize every day experiences that so often make us feel marginalized. My goal is to help people love themselves a little bit more and struggle a little bit less. For the past four years Logan has been working with families, individuals, and children in the private sector.
![Photo of Aneta Merlino, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c98e3e72-ef15-49fc-abe6-08fb25af28d3/3/320x400.png)
Aneta Merlino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98023
I am passionate about helping couples and families reconnect. I also support individuals (adults, teenagers, and kids) experiencing anxiety, depression and a feeling of disconnection from self and others. I can provide Trauma-Informed care using EMDR as well as other modalities. When working with me you will be safe to show up as you are. With honesty leading, I will guide us to understand what is preventing you from experiencing the life and relationships you yearn for. Our work is intended to help you move towards practicing new ways of being and releasing coping strategies that no longer serve.
I am passionate about helping couples and families reconnect. I also support individuals (adults, teenagers, and kids) experiencing anxiety, depression and a feeling of disconnection from self and others. I can provide Trauma-Informed care using EMDR as well as other modalities. When working with me you will be safe to show up as you are. With honesty leading, I will guide us to understand what is preventing you from experiencing the life and relationships you yearn for. Our work is intended to help you move towards practicing new ways of being and releasing coping strategies that no longer serve.
![Photo of Melissa Rudolf, LMHC, MA, MHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dd69fb6-f253-4d39-8d75-48854f50b9a6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Rudolf
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98001 (Online Only)
I recognize the significant impact of trauma on adults, children, and families. My passion is supporting parents, children, and families not only in their present healing. I aim to give insight into their own struggles to heal the inter-generational trauma and heal future generations. It stops with you. Systemic therapy looks at not just about the individual, but their family, community, the larger societal values and how that power, privilege, and inequity impacts the person in the therapy room with me.
I recognize the significant impact of trauma on adults, children, and families. My passion is supporting parents, children, and families not only in their present healing. I aim to give insight into their own struggles to heal the inter-generational trauma and heal future generations. It stops with you. Systemic therapy looks at not just about the individual, but their family, community, the larger societal values and how that power, privilege, and inequity impacts the person in the therapy room with me.
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Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Federal Way
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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.