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
Through my 15 years of being a foster/adopt parent, I have experienced how trauma, attachment, anxiety, learning disorders, Autism, ADHD, and mood disorders, affect daily functioning and the ability to enjoy life. I have come to appreciate how important it is to feel a sense of safety and belonging. We are biologically wired to need connections/relationships for optimal growth and development....
I earned a Masters and an Educational Specialist Degree in School and Community Psychology from Seton Hall University, and a Doctorate of Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I specialize in assisting school-aged children through young adults in areas such as: self-regulation, anxiety, depression, anger management, coping skills, social skills, school issues, and...
I am an integrative therapist with over 20 years of diverse experience and am passionate about what I do! My specialties are working with Women's issues, Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, adolescents, couples work, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, foster care/adoption, as well as self-exploration. We all go through struggles on our journey, and reaching out for unbiased and non-judgmental support can...
JoJo specializes in working with women who are experiencing challenges related to life transitions, grief, divorce, and parenting issues, particularly those that involve parenting a child with special needs. She is particularly sensitive to the needs of parents who are dealing with the grief and adjustment of struggling to incorporate the special needs of their child with the larger needs of th...
Sometimes, you may feel hopeless and need someone to help you see through the darkness. I am here to help you see the strengths that you possess and help restore your hope through therapy. I believe it is possible to work through any life struggle when the right mindset and support systems are in place. My work is focused on providing a reliable, supportive and non-judgmental environment. I hav...
Life is constantly presenting us with change. Just when we might feel like we know what the day will bring, there might be something around the corner that takes us by surprise; maybe even something that has been there that we didn't even notice before! With change, comes thoughts and feelings we might not be ready to have, such anxiety, sadness, and fear. Coping with these changes can be...
I am licensed psychologist with a strong background in cognitive-behavioral therapy specializing in children, adolescents, and their families. I believe in a collaborative process and view family involvement as an integral component. I prioritize cultural competence and seek to understand the unique worldview of my clients. I utilize evidence-based treatment and assessment approaches in my work...
The journey towards personal fulfillment most often involves a variety of challenges that trigger emotional distress. However, what if I told you that these challenges are actually opportunities? Yes, each challenge represents an opportunity for growth and personal development. If you subscribe to this belief, therapeutic coaching may be an ideal intervention to empower you to reach meaningful...
Michael Gutierrez is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the State of Massachusetts who has worked as a full-time psychotherapist for the past six years providing therapy services to adults, teenagers and couples. Michael completed his Bachelor of Arts at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va and received his Masters in Social Work at Boston College in Chestnut Hill, MA. Michael u...
Accepting new clients! Feeling anxious and depressed in the midst of the Coronavirus. You are not alone. I am a licensed mental health clinician with extensive experience working with clients who suffer a wide variety of clinical concerns including addiction, anxiety, depression and life transitions. One of my specialties is working with clients with dual diagnosis of substance abuse as well as...
My goal is to empower clients by providing a safe space to be heard and to grow. I believe each person is the expert in their own life and that therapy can provide tools to get past stuck points we all experience. I especially enjoy walking alongside young adults as they work through issues related to college, career, relationships, spirituality, and other “messy stuff.” I have experience...
I welcome the opportunity to work with individuals who are driven to make positive changes, who may currently be experiencing difficult circumstances, and/or who seek guidance in navigating personal relationships. I want to help clients identify areas for growth and to be adequately prepared for any obstacles. I enjoy working with children and families through the implementation of cognitive...
As an Art Therapist and licensed professional counselor, my approach to treatment is composed of elements from evidenced-based interventions, and a wide variety of behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic therapies. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process between the client and therapist focused on identifying potential areas for growth and development. I have extensive experience...
John Gibilaro and Peace Talkers help families change their views on their child's emotional outbursts and defiance. Our workshops and services use scientifically proven methods to help replace undesirable behaviors with desirable ones. Families learn to view a child's unwanted behavior as an unmet need, rather than a discipline issue. We offer group workshops as well as one-on-one services. A f...
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with individuals as well as groups regarding mental health and addiction concerns. I earned my Bachelors from the University of Florida and my Masters from Lehigh University. I am passionate about helping individuals learn, grow, and thrive by providing a solution-focused approach to therapy. I help individuals to gain insight in...
