Autism Therapists in La Jolla, CA
An expert in the autism field, I am sought out for my gold-standard ASD evaluations, which combine clinical astuteness with a great respect for human diversity.
I am a neuropsychologist with a great respect for neurodiversity and learning differences. Although the assessment of children and adolescents is my mainstay, I also have extensive experience in evaluating adults. I am particularly skilled at assessing neurodivergent women and girls who have learned to mask their symptoms. I evaluate for learning disorders, processing deficits, and developmental disorders, including but not limited to ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of folks who are struggling with emotional challenges, like anxiety, depression, and OCD.
An expert in the autism field, I am sought out for my gold-standard ASD evaluations, which combine clinical astuteness with a great respect for human diversity.
I am a neuropsychologist with a great respect for neurodiversity and learning differences. Although the assessment of children and adolescents is my mainstay, I also have extensive experience in evaluating adults. I am particularly skilled at assessing neurodivergent women and girls who have learned to mask their symptoms. I evaluate for learning disorders, processing deficits, and developmental disorders, including but not limited to ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of folks who are struggling with emotional challenges, like anxiety, depression, and OCD.
We specialize in psychological and educational testing for individuals across the lifespan. We provide testing for ADHD/ADD, learning disorders, Autism/Asperger's disorder, dementia evaluations, traumatic brain injury evaluations, neuropsychological testing, substance abuse evaluations, trauma assessments, career assessments, and personality assessments. Our testing assessments evaluate IQ, memory, executive functioning, academic achievement, language, trauma symptomology and psychological/emotional functioning.
We specialize in psychological and educational testing for individuals across the lifespan. We provide testing for ADHD/ADD, learning disorders, Autism/Asperger's disorder, dementia evaluations, traumatic brain injury evaluations, neuropsychological testing, substance abuse evaluations, trauma assessments, career assessments, and personality assessments. Our testing assessments evaluate IQ, memory, executive functioning, academic achievement, language, trauma symptomology and psychological/emotional functioning.
Shereen Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults and teens on the autism spectrum who struggle with anxiety or depression, or who need support with navigating the academic, occupational, or social world. My goal is not to “fix” you - you are not broken! I aim to facilitate understanding, grow your skills, and expand your options in order to help you achieve your goals. In addition to autism, I treat those with anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, ADHD, depression, and trauma. I also love working with parents, offering support for parenting stress, as well as tools and strategies for managing behavioral challenges in younger children.
I specialize in working with adults and teens on the autism spectrum who struggle with anxiety or depression, or who need support with navigating the academic, occupational, or social world. My goal is not to “fix” you - you are not broken! I aim to facilitate understanding, grow your skills, and expand your options in order to help you achieve your goals. In addition to autism, I treat those with anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, ADHD, depression, and trauma. I also love working with parents, offering support for parenting stress, as well as tools and strategies for managing behavioral challenges in younger children.
A neuropsychological evaluation provides a comprehensive understanding of brain functioning and an individual's strengths and weaknesses. I work with children, teens, and young adults. Neurocognitive skills, academic abilities, social skills, and behavior are assessed as part of each evaluation using gold standard tools. I'm well-known for my expertise in the diagnosis of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. My goal is to help each person reach their full potential. I do not offer therapy services.
A neuropsychological evaluation provides a comprehensive understanding of brain functioning and an individual's strengths and weaknesses. I work with children, teens, and young adults. Neurocognitive skills, academic abilities, social skills, and behavior are assessed as part of each evaluation using gold standard tools. I'm well-known for my expertise in the diagnosis of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. My goal is to help each person reach their full potential. I do not offer therapy services.
She specializes in youth diagnostics including Autism, ADHD, trauma and mood disorders.
Dr. Patel is a licensed psychologist specializing in child and adolescent psychological assessment. She uses gold standard measures and customizes psychological evaluations to each individual child. Her evaluations provide tailored and detailed recommendations to best assist children and their families to thrive.
She specializes in youth diagnostics including Autism, ADHD, trauma and mood disorders.
Dr. Patel is a licensed psychologist specializing in child and adolescent psychological assessment. She uses gold standard measures and customizes psychological evaluations to each individual child. Her evaluations provide tailored and detailed recommendations to best assist children and their families to thrive.
Anya Levine Morrill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in supporting individuals and family of those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the unique challenges they may face.
Life's journey often leads us through unexpected twists and turns, uncovering obstacles that can stir up old wounds we thought we had long passed. In the face of these challenges, it's common to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or weighed down. Relationships, work, and even simple pleasures may start to feel like uphill battles. These difficult periods might seem like impassable roadblocks, and can feel isolating if we don't have a space where we feel comfortable to process our experiences. When we find the right supports we need, these challenging periods can actually lead us to a place of growth, happiness, and renewed peace.
I also specialize in supporting individuals and family of those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the unique challenges they may face.
Life's journey often leads us through unexpected twists and turns, uncovering obstacles that can stir up old wounds we thought we had long passed. In the face of these challenges, it's common to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or weighed down. Relationships, work, and even simple pleasures may start to feel like uphill battles. These difficult periods might seem like impassable roadblocks, and can feel isolating if we don't have a space where we feel comfortable to process our experiences. When we find the right supports we need, these challenging periods can actually lead us to a place of growth, happiness, and renewed peace.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations for teens & adults (ADHD, Learning Problems, Autism, Cognitive Functioning/IQ) and veterans (DBQs).
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
Psychological Testing & Evaluations for teens & adults (ADHD, Learning Problems, Autism, Cognitive Functioning/IQ) and veterans (DBQs).
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
Dr. Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations to help clarify diagnoses and identify the best supports and interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations can assist with diagnosing ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc). Psychology 360 also offers brief individual therapy, parent consultation, medication management and brain scans.
Dr. Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations to help clarify diagnoses and identify the best supports and interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations can assist with diagnosing ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc). Psychology 360 also offers brief individual therapy, parent consultation, medication management and brain scans.
I specialize in assessment of Learning Disabilities including Reading (Dyslexia), Writing (Dysgraphia), Math (Dyscalculia), and Oral Expression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD,) Autism or Asperger's, Pervasive Developemental Disorder, and Gifted students. I develop learning profiles in order to highlight which instructional methods are most and least effective with the child. I also, determine if there is a need for accommodations on SAT, ACT, AP and graduate school exams.
I specialize in assessment of Learning Disabilities including Reading (Dyslexia), Writing (Dysgraphia), Math (Dyscalculia), and Oral Expression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD,) Autism or Asperger's, Pervasive Developemental Disorder, and Gifted students. I develop learning profiles in order to highlight which instructional methods are most and least effective with the child. I also, determine if there is a need for accommodations on SAT, ACT, AP and graduate school exams.
Best Strong Self
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Best Strong Self (BSS) uses integrative therapy to help you understand the causes to your distress as well as identify ways to help you cope in a personalized manner and attain your goals. With validation, compassion, an open-mindset, and flexibility to healing, BSS can help you be, do and feel better to live a happier life. We've worked with people who have/are suicidal, self-harming, OCD, ADHD, drug & alcohol addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, physical illness, child abuse & neglect, autism, anxiety, grief, depression, ptsd, homeless, at-risk, terminal illness and gender distress.
Best Strong Self (BSS) uses integrative therapy to help you understand the causes to your distress as well as identify ways to help you cope in a personalized manner and attain your goals. With validation, compassion, an open-mindset, and flexibility to healing, BSS can help you be, do and feel better to live a happier life. We've worked with people who have/are suicidal, self-harming, OCD, ADHD, drug & alcohol addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, physical illness, child abuse & neglect, autism, anxiety, grief, depression, ptsd, homeless, at-risk, terminal illness and gender distress.
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92039
My sub specialties include: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity (adhd/autism), dementia/neurocognitive disorders, death and dying, and trauma (I am EMDR trained) and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
My sub specialties include: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity (adhd/autism), dementia/neurocognitive disorders, death and dying, and trauma (I am EMDR trained) and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
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Through an extensive day of testing, we are able to assess for Overall Cognitive Functioning, Learning Disorders, ADHD, Depression, Autism, and various different Mental Health Diagnoses.
Dr. Max Doshay believes it is of utmost importance to treat all patients holistically and examine all levels of their functioning. Incorporating a variety of evidence-based assessment methods such as the WAIS IV, MMPI 3, WRAML 3, TAT, Vineland Adaptive Scales, and Bender Visual Spatial Gestalt Test (and more!), Dr. Max and his team can help tailor an individualized treatment plan through Neuropsychological Evaluations that meets the patient’s specific wants and needs instead of applying a “one size fits all” therapeutic technique used by many in the mental health industry.
Through an extensive day of testing, we are able to assess for Overall Cognitive Functioning, Learning Disorders, ADHD, Depression, Autism, and various different Mental Health Diagnoses.
Dr. Max Doshay believes it is of utmost importance to treat all patients holistically and examine all levels of their functioning. Incorporating a variety of evidence-based assessment methods such as the WAIS IV, MMPI 3, WRAML 3, TAT, Vineland Adaptive Scales, and Bender Visual Spatial Gestalt Test (and more!), Dr. Max and his team can help tailor an individualized treatment plan through Neuropsychological Evaluations that meets the patient’s specific wants and needs instead of applying a “one size fits all” therapeutic technique used by many in the mental health industry.
As a psychoanalyst I believe that an individual's feelings and behaviors are motivated by a variety of unconscious factors often resulting in people feeling stuck. Psychoanalysis helps individuals finally break these habits by understanding their root causes and enable significant changes at the very core of one's emotional responses. Using these experiences, the analyst helps the patient work on a deeply unconscious level to eliminate unproductive and destructive patterns. This opens the patient to new, fresh and genuine experiences and solutions in their lives. This process is achievable through empathy and respect.
As a psychoanalyst I believe that an individual's feelings and behaviors are motivated by a variety of unconscious factors often resulting in people feeling stuck. Psychoanalysis helps individuals finally break these habits by understanding their root causes and enable significant changes at the very core of one's emotional responses. Using these experiences, the analyst helps the patient work on a deeply unconscious level to eliminate unproductive and destructive patterns. This opens the patient to new, fresh and genuine experiences and solutions in their lives. This process is achievable through empathy and respect.
Aloha! Thank you for considering me to work alongside with you in your journey towards self-discovery and positive well-being. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Hawaii and in California. I received a Master of Arts degree in Psychology (Marriage and Family Therapy Emphasis) from Pepperdine University and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Hawaii School of Professional Psychology. My training and clinical experience covers a wide age range from infants/toddlers to adults and includes cognitive and neural developmental research, pediatric neuropsychology, school psychology, clinical psychology, and health psychology.
Aloha! Thank you for considering me to work alongside with you in your journey towards self-discovery and positive well-being. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Hawaii and in California. I received a Master of Arts degree in Psychology (Marriage and Family Therapy Emphasis) from Pepperdine University and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Hawaii School of Professional Psychology. My training and clinical experience covers a wide age range from infants/toddlers to adults and includes cognitive and neural developmental research, pediatric neuropsychology, school psychology, clinical psychology, and health psychology.
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
Hello- my name is Jeannine Ray. I have 18 years of experience working with individuals and families as a family therapist and behavior analyst. I completed my Ph.D. and hold a doctorate in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and hold a license as an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
Hello- my name is Jeannine Ray. I have 18 years of experience working with individuals and families as a family therapist and behavior analyst. I completed my Ph.D. and hold a doctorate in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and hold a license as an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
We realize the importance of developing a supportive therapy relationship based in trust, mutual respect, and clear understanding of your unique background, values,and needs. At the Cognitive Therapy Institute, we work with you to identify goals and to develop a plan for reaching your goals in a sensible and effective way. Often our clients experience increased confidence and success in a relatively short time, largely because we offer clear guidance and techniques using the latest Cognitive Behavioral Treatments. You learn skills and strategies to resolve current difficulties and to enjoy a good quality of life in the years ahead.
We realize the importance of developing a supportive therapy relationship based in trust, mutual respect, and clear understanding of your unique background, values,and needs. At the Cognitive Therapy Institute, we work with you to identify goals and to develop a plan for reaching your goals in a sensible and effective way. Often our clients experience increased confidence and success in a relatively short time, largely because we offer clear guidance and techniques using the latest Cognitive Behavioral Treatments. You learn skills and strategies to resolve current difficulties and to enjoy a good quality of life in the years ahead.
Dr. Michael Villanueva offers an unique approach to traditional counseling with an emphasis on Jungian psychology and two domains: Conditions more rooted in expressed psychological symptoms, and conditions more rooted in neurophysiological symptoms. This is a distinction reflecting years of experience in both counseling and analyzing the human EEG (AKA ‘brainwaves’). He can counsel and treat with various forms of talk therapy as well as analyze and train your neural pathways using neurofeedback. Dr. Villanueva also offers telehealth counseling.
Dr. Michael Villanueva offers an unique approach to traditional counseling with an emphasis on Jungian psychology and two domains: Conditions more rooted in expressed psychological symptoms, and conditions more rooted in neurophysiological symptoms. This is a distinction reflecting years of experience in both counseling and analyzing the human EEG (AKA ‘brainwaves’). He can counsel and treat with various forms of talk therapy as well as analyze and train your neural pathways using neurofeedback. Dr. Villanueva also offers telehealth counseling.
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
Ashley McCort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Not sure where to start? That’s okay. Many of us aren't. We all have a story and I value holding a space for you to honor that story. To process that experience, to rework that negative thought or feeling that causes stagnancy. Stagnancy in love, stagnancy in friendship, in work, and in the desired evolution of self. We all seek to control but what does that mean, and is there space? The deepest form of understanding will come from processing and reprocessing; evaluating and reevaluating an experience until we conclude an awareness of the experience that fits into our new schema, our new direction, our new trajectory.
Not sure where to start? That’s okay. Many of us aren't. We all have a story and I value holding a space for you to honor that story. To process that experience, to rework that negative thought or feeling that causes stagnancy. Stagnancy in love, stagnancy in friendship, in work, and in the desired evolution of self. We all seek to control but what does that mean, and is there space? The deepest form of understanding will come from processing and reprocessing; evaluating and reevaluating an experience until we conclude an awareness of the experience that fits into our new schema, our new direction, our new trajectory.
See more therapy options for La Jolla
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for La Jolla
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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.