Autism Therapists in Stanwood, WA

Photo of Amy Schilder, MS, LMHCA, EFMHS, Counselor
Amy Schilder
Counselor, MS, LMHCA, EFMHS
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292
Welcome to NW Hearts United. Imagine a life where the voice that guides you is the voice of who you truly are. That you trust your sense of knowing and insight to guide you with focus and clarity. Your heart, body, and mind are completely in coherence. We are passionate about supporting your journey to coherence, empowerment, joy, hope and fulfillment. Our methods focus on an experiential, somatic, connection-based, holistic lens. Our clients report feeling empowered as individuals while also learning to support, collaborate, and find strength in the connection they have with loved ones, peers, and their communities.
Welcome to NW Hearts United. Imagine a life where the voice that guides you is the voice of who you truly are. That you trust your sense of knowing and insight to guide you with focus and clarity. Your heart, body, and mind are completely in coherence. We are passionate about supporting your journey to coherence, empowerment, joy, hope and fulfillment. Our methods focus on an experiential, somatic, connection-based, holistic lens. Our clients report feeling empowered as individuals while also learning to support, collaborate, and find strength in the connection they have with loved ones, peers, and their communities.
(425) 610-7432 View (425) 610-7432
Photo of Kayla Brooks - Kindred Sparrow Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kindred Sparrow Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292
Hello, welcome to my practice. I offer mental health services in Washington and California via telehealth. I have been working with youth, adults, and families since 2010. Are you going through a difficult time in your life? Have you had experiences that are impacting your ability to thrive? Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your child struggling in school or at home? I want to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify more healthy coping skills and communication techniques. I am committed to supporting you and your family in your journey toward well-being and recovery.
Hello, welcome to my practice. I offer mental health services in Washington and California via telehealth. I have been working with youth, adults, and families since 2010. Are you going through a difficult time in your life? Have you had experiences that are impacting your ability to thrive? Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your child struggling in school or at home? I want to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify more healthy coping skills and communication techniques. I am committed to supporting you and your family in your journey toward well-being and recovery.
(360) 284-1982 View (360) 284-1982

Online Therapists

Photo of Chelsey Vadixx - Children's Behavioral Medicine Collaborative, PLLC, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Children's Behavioral Medicine Collaborative, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98407
Our Services Include: Psychotherapy, Neuropsychological Evaluation, Diagnostic Evaluations for Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities or Giftedness, Developmental Screening, Evaluations to Qualify for Services (DDA, Special Education etc.
Children’s Behavioral Medicine Collaborative provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological services to children and families struggling with a range of concerns including those related to anxiety/depression, learning/academic success, disruptive behavior and social challenges. We offer individual therapy, psychological and neuropsychological assessment and biofeedback for children and adolescents across the developmental spectrum in a bright, warm, welcoming space free from judgement. Meet our providers at: www.ChildrensBMC.com.
Our Services Include: Psychotherapy, Neuropsychological Evaluation, Diagnostic Evaluations for Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities or Giftedness, Developmental Screening, Evaluations to Qualify for Services (DDA, Special Education etc.
Children’s Behavioral Medicine Collaborative provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological services to children and families struggling with a range of concerns including those related to anxiety/depression, learning/academic success, disruptive behavior and social challenges. We offer individual therapy, psychological and neuropsychological assessment and biofeedback for children and adolescents across the developmental spectrum in a bright, warm, welcoming space free from judgement. Meet our providers at: www.ChildrensBMC.com.
(253) 256-3626 View (253) 256-3626
Photo of Nicole Yandle, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicole Yandle
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98406  (Online Only)
Nicole is passionate about working with individuals with AuDHD, Autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions.
Accepting clients. Nicole is here to create a space that is free of judgement; where you are invited to show up exactly how you are and experience her presence, empathy, compassion, emotions, and humanity. Together you will begin to explore what has shaped you and how that has impacted the way you relate to others - what has hurt you, what breaks your heart, what amazes you and what gives you life. Nicole will work with you using narrative, relational and depth-oriented psychodynamic psychotherapy that is grounded in an anti-oppressive framework.
Nicole is passionate about working with individuals with AuDHD, Autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions.
Accepting clients. Nicole is here to create a space that is free of judgement; where you are invited to show up exactly how you are and experience her presence, empathy, compassion, emotions, and humanity. Together you will begin to explore what has shaped you and how that has impacted the way you relate to others - what has hurt you, what breaks your heart, what amazes you and what gives you life. Nicole will work with you using narrative, relational and depth-oriented psychodynamic psychotherapy that is grounded in an anti-oppressive framework.
(253) 338-5103 View (253) 338-5103
Photo of Cheryl De Roca, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Cheryl De Roca
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
My expertise includes but is not limited to working with children, adolescents, and teens with autism and other neurodiverse conditions.
I work to best understand your perspective, provide empathetic listening, and teach skills to build resiliency against depression, anxiety, and trauma. I work from the perspective that we are influenced and impacted by the people and situations in our lives. Understanding how these relationships affect us helps us to better understand our behavior and allow for positive growth. I believe that through working together, each individual/family can develop skills that promote living a meaningful, healthy, and purpose-filled life. I have a unique understanding and awareness of varying cultural perspectives that influence our lives.
My expertise includes but is not limited to working with children, adolescents, and teens with autism and other neurodiverse conditions.
I work to best understand your perspective, provide empathetic listening, and teach skills to build resiliency against depression, anxiety, and trauma. I work from the perspective that we are influenced and impacted by the people and situations in our lives. Understanding how these relationships affect us helps us to better understand our behavior and allow for positive growth. I believe that through working together, each individual/family can develop skills that promote living a meaningful, healthy, and purpose-filled life. I have a unique understanding and awareness of varying cultural perspectives that influence our lives.
(425) 428-4529 View (425) 428-4529
Photo of Jessica Norman Wells, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Norman Wells
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I help parents find answers through comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities.
I help parents find answers through comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. I specialize in autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities.
(360) 404-7253 View (360) 404-7253
Photo of Sara Haggard, MA, LBA, BCBA
Sara Haggard
MA, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
With these strategies I help clients and families who have been diagnosed with autism, AD/HD, and other related developmental/behavioral challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who specializes in working with families for over 10 years. I specialize in behavior management, communication, self-awareness, problem solving as well as emotional regulation. My unique approach to working with clients is based on my clinical training in applied behavior analysis (ABA). I will work with you and your child to identify their strengths and weaknesses while examining learned and conditioned behaviors. I use various evidence-based techniques and strategies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
With these strategies I help clients and families who have been diagnosed with autism, AD/HD, and other related developmental/behavioral challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who specializes in working with families for over 10 years. I specialize in behavior management, communication, self-awareness, problem solving as well as emotional regulation. My unique approach to working with clients is based on my clinical training in applied behavior analysis (ABA). I will work with you and your child to identify their strengths and weaknesses while examining learned and conditioned behaviors. I use various evidence-based techniques and strategies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(425) 629-8936 View (425) 629-8936
Photo of Megan Wiebelhaus, LMHC, Counselor
Megan Wiebelhaus
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I work with teens and adults who identify as quirky/nerdy, highly-intelligent, introverted, highly-sensitive, or as having ADHD or Autism (or some combination of these). Those with these traits often share something: a sense of outsider-ship, of not quite belonging. This can lead to loneliness, shame, isolation, depressions, self-loathing--all that fun stuff.  I, myself, have 3 or 4 of the above traits, AND was homeschooled on top of it, so my own sense of outsider-ship was crowned with awkward homeschooler social skills :) Working, both on self-acceptance, and feeling like I belong, is something I enjoy sharing with my clients.
I work with teens and adults who identify as quirky/nerdy, highly-intelligent, introverted, highly-sensitive, or as having ADHD or Autism (or some combination of these). Those with these traits often share something: a sense of outsider-ship, of not quite belonging. This can lead to loneliness, shame, isolation, depressions, self-loathing--all that fun stuff.  I, myself, have 3 or 4 of the above traits, AND was homeschooled on top of it, so my own sense of outsider-ship was crowned with awkward homeschooler social skills :) Working, both on self-acceptance, and feeling like I belong, is something I enjoy sharing with my clients.
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Photo of Cecilia Hamill, MS, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Cecilia Hamill
Counselor, MS, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I have a sister with autism and have dedicated many years to this field, receiving specialized training by Virginia Institute for Autism.
I am a proponent of holistic healing - treating the whole person (mind, body, spirit). I enjoy employing creative mediums in the therapeutic process to include symbolic (Jungian), artistic, musical and written expression. There are many constructive ways to channel life's challenges, stressors and traumas. It is imperative to find meaningful, healthy ways to cope. My clinical background is diverse and has included work with teens and adults in the area of trauma and addiction. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with individuals and families contending with various physical and/or developmental disabilities.
I have a sister with autism and have dedicated many years to this field, receiving specialized training by Virginia Institute for Autism.
I am a proponent of holistic healing - treating the whole person (mind, body, spirit). I enjoy employing creative mediums in the therapeutic process to include symbolic (Jungian), artistic, musical and written expression. There are many constructive ways to channel life's challenges, stressors and traumas. It is imperative to find meaningful, healthy ways to cope. My clinical background is diverse and has included work with teens and adults in the area of trauma and addiction. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with individuals and families contending with various physical and/or developmental disabilities.
(425) 363-0026 View (425) 363-0026
Photo of Ellen Soukup-Landeau, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen Soukup-Landeau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I offer evaluations (autism, ADHD, IQ testing, diagnostics), therapy, and parent coaching.
My personal caseload is currently full. However, I am accepting new patients to work with my doctoral level student supervisees, at a lower cost per session. We work with a wide range of clients across the lifespan, with a specialty in neurodiversity, children, and adolescents. I use a person-centered and s approach in therapy and assessment. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, parenting challenges, and self-discovery. If you are curious about how your or your child's mind works, how you can see change and growth in your life, or how you can live a life in line with your personal values, I can help.
I offer evaluations (autism, ADHD, IQ testing, diagnostics), therapy, and parent coaching.
My personal caseload is currently full. However, I am accepting new patients to work with my doctoral level student supervisees, at a lower cost per session. We work with a wide range of clients across the lifespan, with a specialty in neurodiversity, children, and adolescents. I use a person-centered and s approach in therapy and assessment. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, parenting challenges, and self-discovery. If you are curious about how your or your child's mind works, how you can see change and growth in your life, or how you can live a life in line with your personal values, I can help.
(425) 371-7108 View (425) 371-7108
Photo of Emily Ramos, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lake Tapps, WA 98391
My areas of therapeutic interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism, family communication, and parenting skills/support.
I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on assisting individuals and families to find inner strength and make positive life changes. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, utilizing multiple evidence-based approaches. I will support you in creating an environment to help you feel safe and understood, and work with you in setting goals in the areas that are most important to you. I have training and experience in multiple therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Sand Tray, and other Play therapy Techniques.
My areas of therapeutic interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism, family communication, and parenting skills/support.
I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on assisting individuals and families to find inner strength and make positive life changes. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, utilizing multiple evidence-based approaches. I will support you in creating an environment to help you feel safe and understood, and work with you in setting goals in the areas that are most important to you. I have training and experience in multiple therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Sand Tray, and other Play therapy Techniques.
(253) 447-5591 View (253) 447-5591
Photo of Dustin Nicholson, MA, LMHCA, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dustin Nicholson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
I feel counseling is an opportunity for individuals to have an open space to share their story. I work with a variety of age groups including adolescence, teenagers, and adults. I also provide both couples counseling, pre-martial counseling, and individualized counseling. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar, ADHD/ADD, Autism, Intellectual/Developmental Disability. I use a variety of counseling approaches and understands there is no "one approach fits all." Counseling should be individualized to the individual, their needs, and what they hope to get out of counseling.
I feel counseling is an opportunity for individuals to have an open space to share their story. I work with a variety of age groups including adolescence, teenagers, and adults. I also provide both couples counseling, pre-martial counseling, and individualized counseling. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar, ADHD/ADD, Autism, Intellectual/Developmental Disability. I use a variety of counseling approaches and understands there is no "one approach fits all." Counseling should be individualized to the individual, their needs, and what they hope to get out of counseling.
(253) 353-2318 View (253) 353-2318
Photo of Rebecca R Muirhead, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca R Muirhead
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sumner, WA 98390
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized experience with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, relationship issues, & the LGBTQ community.
Not Accepting New Clients At This Time. I primarily work with Adolescents & Adults in both individual & family therapy and provide parenting consultations. My approach is rooted in Attachment theory and our therapeutic relationship will be the foundation for effective therapy. We will work as a team to clarify personal goals and purpose, identify unhealthy patterns and nurture your unique strengths. I have over 15 yrs. of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings including schools, community centers, and group practices. Using a mixture of cognitive & reflective approaches, I help clients with a wide range of issues.
I have specialized experience with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, relationship issues, & the LGBTQ community.
Not Accepting New Clients At This Time. I primarily work with Adolescents & Adults in both individual & family therapy and provide parenting consultations. My approach is rooted in Attachment theory and our therapeutic relationship will be the foundation for effective therapy. We will work as a team to clarify personal goals and purpose, identify unhealthy patterns and nurture your unique strengths. I have over 15 yrs. of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings including schools, community centers, and group practices. Using a mixture of cognitive & reflective approaches, I help clients with a wide range of issues.
(253) 352-4119 View (253) 352-4119
Photo of Jamie Knowlton, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie Knowlton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
My specialties include family & couple repair, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and non-traditional relational dynamics, parent coaching of young children, teenager support, loss/grief, sexual topics, PTSD, Autism & ADHD.
Accepting clients with Premera or Private Pay only at this time. I specialize in couples & families and I am happy to see individuals as well. I can help you understand relational dynamics, process trauma, and establish solid executive functioning skills. You can disrupt unwanted patterns, improve expressions, and communication in your relationships. I work from varied modalities including Somatic Embodiment and Narrative Therapy. You are the experts of your experience, I will support you in trusting and loving yourself and those you care for. With curiosity and compassion, therapy can empower you and help you gain more from life.
My specialties include family & couple repair, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and non-traditional relational dynamics, parent coaching of young children, teenager support, loss/grief, sexual topics, PTSD, Autism & ADHD.
Accepting clients with Premera or Private Pay only at this time. I specialize in couples & families and I am happy to see individuals as well. I can help you understand relational dynamics, process trauma, and establish solid executive functioning skills. You can disrupt unwanted patterns, improve expressions, and communication in your relationships. I work from varied modalities including Somatic Embodiment and Narrative Therapy. You are the experts of your experience, I will support you in trusting and loving yourself and those you care for. With curiosity and compassion, therapy can empower you and help you gain more from life.
(206) 539-0707 View (206) 539-0707
Photo of Jed Savard, PsyD, LMHC
Jed Savard
Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
His specialization and training include the psychological and neuropsychological evaluation and mental health treatment of children, adolescents, and adults; most notably within the diagnostic areas of autism, AD/HD, behavioral issues, and disordered personality.
Dr. Jed Savard provides mental health therapy and consultation with adolescents and adults in a collaborative-partnership approach. He works therapeutically in a solution-focused approach of mutual understanding, thoughtful communication, and respect in identifying areas of growth and reduction of anxiety and depressive difficulties.
His specialization and training include the psychological and neuropsychological evaluation and mental health treatment of children, adolescents, and adults; most notably within the diagnostic areas of autism, AD/HD, behavioral issues, and disordered personality.
Dr. Jed Savard provides mental health therapy and consultation with adolescents and adults in a collaborative-partnership approach. He works therapeutically in a solution-focused approach of mutual understanding, thoughtful communication, and respect in identifying areas of growth and reduction of anxiety and depressive difficulties.
(425) 651-6847 View (425) 651-6847
Photo of Hannah Rea, Psychologist
Hannah Rea
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
I have training in a variety of evidence-based interventions for autism, anxiety, and challenging behaviors, including CBT, RUBI Parent Training, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations, therapy, and assessments with a strength-based perspective to provide families and individuals with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns. I currently have no waitlist for therapy or assessments.
I have training in a variety of evidence-based interventions for autism, anxiety, and challenging behaviors, including CBT, RUBI Parent Training, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations, therapy, and assessments with a strength-based perspective to provide families and individuals with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns. I currently have no waitlist for therapy or assessments.
(425) 842-2494 View (425) 842-2494
Photo of Justice K Browning, LSWAIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Justice K Browning
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are adolescents and adults navigating acute mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues related to autism. They seek to understand and manage their emotions, improve interpersonal skills, and ultimately achieve a better quality of life. Their goals often revolve around developing effective coping strategies, enhancing self-awareness, and building resilience against future stressors.
My ideal clients are adolescents and adults navigating acute mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues related to autism. They seek to understand and manage their emotions, improve interpersonal skills, and ultimately achieve a better quality of life. Their goals often revolve around developing effective coping strategies, enhancing self-awareness, and building resilience against future stressors.
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Photo of Brandon Tripp - Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP, Counselor
Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
Families, partners, and support persons impacted by substance abuse, Co-occurring Disorders, parenting, substance abuse and/or disordered eating during pregnancy, and parents of individuals identified to be on the Autism spectrum or that have sensory sensitivity.
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
Families, partners, and support persons impacted by substance abuse, Co-occurring Disorders, parenting, substance abuse and/or disordered eating during pregnancy, and parents of individuals identified to be on the Autism spectrum or that have sensory sensitivity.
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
(425) 230-4099 View (425) 230-4099
Photo of Monica Alisse, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Monica Alisse
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
With expertise spanning various domains, I offer guidance for individuals and couples seeking improved relationships and communication. Additionally, I provide personal growth support for those with low self-esteem and anxiety, aid in cultural identity exploration, assist trauma survivors on their healing journey, and offer mental health and wellness support for challenges like burnout, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and more.
With expertise spanning various domains, I offer guidance for individuals and couples seeking improved relationships and communication. Additionally, I provide personal growth support for those with low self-esteem and anxiety, aid in cultural identity exploration, assist trauma survivors on their healing journey, and offer mental health and wellness support for challenges like burnout, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and more.
(206) 222-5207 View (206) 222-5207
Photo of Jana L McCall, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jana L McCall
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
Your needs and story are unique and your therapy should be too. Let's find the right therapy for you so you can thrive other than just get by. Whether you’re suffering deeply, experiencing relationship conflict, confused about who you are and how to be true to yourself, unable to connect with others, or bored and uninspired, I’d like to know your story and help you write the next chapters so that you can have your best life. I work with with anxiety, depression, trauma, auto-immune disorders, relationship issues, ADHD/ADD, Autism, OCD, PDA, and all neurodivergent types, and more, and can help you make the changes you hope for.
Your needs and story are unique and your therapy should be too. Let's find the right therapy for you so you can thrive other than just get by. Whether you’re suffering deeply, experiencing relationship conflict, confused about who you are and how to be true to yourself, unable to connect with others, or bored and uninspired, I’d like to know your story and help you write the next chapters so that you can have your best life. I work with with anxiety, depression, trauma, auto-immune disorders, relationship issues, ADHD/ADD, Autism, OCD, PDA, and all neurodivergent types, and more, and can help you make the changes you hope for.
(206) 567-7336 View (206) 567-7336

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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.