Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting interpersonal interactions and cognitive, social, communication, and motor skills. It also may lead to specific behaviors and interests. People’s experiences of ASD can vary greatly. For this reason, counseling interventions for individuals with ASD also range in their purpose and intent.
Available Treatment Options
Most mental health professionals agree that early intervention for people with ASD leads to better outcomes. Therapists may reduce problematic behaviors and improve communication, social skills, and sensory skills. Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is a type of behavioral therapy that counselors use specifically to increase desired behaviors and reduce undesired ones. Counselors may use Play Therapy to increase awareness of emotions and social skills and Speech-Language Therapy to improve communication skills.
Therapists Who Specialize in Helping Those Who Struggle With Autism
Our lives are forever changing in so many ways. With change comes so many different emotions such as happiness, sadness, grief and anxiety to just name a few. Whether the change is positive or negative we have to face it head on. Throughout our lives we need to learn how to embrace change and ride the waves of life. The counseling modalities that I currently use are Cognitive-Behavioral, while...
Hello! My name is Shaunaca. (pronounced like Hanukkah but with the "sh" sound) :) I graduated with a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. I am nationally certified by the NBCC, as well as, licensed as a Behavior Specialist by the State Board of Medicine. I have worked in many different environments such as, schools, residential facilities, and...
Matthew W. Specht, Ph.D. is a nationally-recognized clinical psychologist and highly-lauded expert in Tourette’s Disorder and common co-occurring conditions including OCD, Anxiety, and ADHD. With over 15 years professional experience as a clinician, researcher, and professor at leading institutions including Johns Hopkins Hospital and NewYork-Presbyterian, Dr. Specht has built a reputation for...
I believe therapy should be a place to process your experiences, as well as receive helpful feedback and tangible ways to help make changes in your life. My role is to be active and involved, while supporting you to figure out the personal and structural changes you can make to live the life you want. My style is empathetic, non-judgmental, creative, and direct. My intention is for my clients t...
My name is Nikki Roth and I have been working in the field for over 10 years as a therapist. I have a true passion for helping others feel validated, accepted, and supported on their journey. Are you seeking peace from depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relationship struggles, difficulties with life transitions, low self-esteem, or other life struggles? My approach is client-centered rooted in...
Whether you're looking to make changes in your life, or trying to accept things you cannot change, you deserve a comfortable and safe place to process your feelings. Together we will look at the relationships in your life, your past, and how you narrate your own story. I strive to create a welcoming space for my clients by fostering a relaxed atmosphere, nonjudgmental environment, and humor. I...
Sometimes we get stuck in our relationships or caught up in frustrations of everyday life and begin to feel disconnected and lost. Other times, stresses like multiple moves, job changes, or medical issues leave us frazzled and unsure of what to do next. Understanding what has gotten us stuck and working through difficult thoughts and emotions allows us to overcome fear, anxiety, depression, and...
PARENTS, CHILDREN, TEENS and ADULTS. I am committed to helping others who struggle with negative thought patterns, troubled relationships, behavior disturbances, and difficulties with communication. I provide an open-minded and supportive environment to assist clients searching for mental clarity, closer relationships, personal resilience, improved behavior patterns, and self-control. Building ...
When you are concerned about your child, it can be confusing and overwhelming as you evaluate options and look for direction. My goal is to simplify this process for you—by evaluating your child, I use the information I learn to help you understand your child’s unique profile, give you personalized recommendations and referrals for next steps, and walk you through this process with as much supp...
I support children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with unresolved emotions, anxiety, stress, communication, relational issues, self-esteem, school challenges, and coping skills. I believe therapy should be a safe space to explore one’s experiences and a collaborative process for all involved. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs and emphasizes respect for their...
Jini Figueroa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys nurturing youth, living, thriving through adversity within the community of Rochester. Jini gained significant experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Suicidal Ideation, Anxiety and Depression. Jini works with individuals to assist them in understanding their internal strengths....
My ideal client is someone who mustered up the courage to make an appointment, even if they don't believe in counseling or feel that they are too far gone, the person who is able to take that one brave step will be able to make a difference. My foundation is cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), but with a holistic lens. I understand that where you are today is the culmination of different life...
Welcome! As a therapist it is my goal to support individuals as they strive to achieve a better quality of life. I provide a safe and secure environment where you can work on your personal goals without judgment. My experience includes treatment for a wide range of concerns including chronic depression, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, relationship issues and life transitions. My passion is...
I have twenty years experience in mental and behavioral health. I have lived my entire life with a chronic illness. These two factors help me to view the issues that my clients are coping with from a unique perspective. I have experience coaching people to reach their personal and professional goals, coaching, consulting and facilitating for those with mental health concerns to learn skills to...
It's heartbreaking to watch someone you love suffer. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, responses from trauma, or difficulties coping with life transitions, I am here to help. I have over a decade of experience partnering with families to help improve relationships, ability to cope, and quality of life. I believe every child and every family have strengths that can help...
