Autism Therapists in Poway, CA

Photo of Caryn Cole, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caryn Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
Having my own son with autism gives me a unique perspective to support parents in embracing and uncovering their child’s potential.
Do you feel lost, hopeless, or stuck? Do you find yourself worried and self-conscious? Are you experiencing conflict with family members, co-workers, or other important relationships in your life? Are you a parent wanting extra support? You are not alone. My style is nurturing, kind, empathetic, and patient. I am here to establish a safe environment where you will be respected, heard, and validated. Therapy sessions are tailored to your individual needs. I meet clients where they are at and work at their pace to achieve hope, empowerment, and growth.
Having my own son with autism gives me a unique perspective to support parents in embracing and uncovering their child’s potential.
Do you feel lost, hopeless, or stuck? Do you find yourself worried and self-conscious? Are you experiencing conflict with family members, co-workers, or other important relationships in your life? Are you a parent wanting extra support? You are not alone. My style is nurturing, kind, empathetic, and patient. I am here to establish a safe environment where you will be respected, heard, and validated. Therapy sessions are tailored to your individual needs. I meet clients where they are at and work at their pace to achieve hope, empowerment, and growth.
(858) 244-9443 View (858) 244-9443
Photo of Kathryn Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Waitlist for new clients
My role is to help individuals and families experiencing challenges due to (or associated with) autism, bipolar, depression, ADHD, separation anxiety, school anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt? Can't go over it! Can't go under it! We've got to go through it! Life is full of situations that can leave us feeling much like this song. In working with individuals and families, including children (ages 4+) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers, my hope is for you to find new solutions to the challenges you are facing every day. I may not be able to get you over it or under it, but I am here to help you through it.
My role is to help individuals and families experiencing challenges due to (or associated with) autism, bipolar, depression, ADHD, separation anxiety, school anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt? Can't go over it! Can't go under it! We've got to go through it! Life is full of situations that can leave us feeling much like this song. In working with individuals and families, including children (ages 4+) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers, my hope is for you to find new solutions to the challenges you are facing every day. I may not be able to get you over it or under it, but I am here to help you through it.
(858) 736-9990 View (858) 736-9990
Photo of Gretchen Pound, PhD, Psychologist
Gretchen Pound
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
For individuals seeking clarity, I provide psychological and educational testing for ADHD and/or Autism among college students and adults.
Are you struggling with: racing thoughts, anxiety, lack of focus and concentration? Are you having trouble sleeping at night? If so, clinical research has shown that yoga, mindfulness and psychotherapy are sometimes better solutions than medication. When things fall apart I can help you find ways to use hard times to cultivate wisdom, compassion and courage. My goal is to guide you on a journey of self-fulfillment and true happiness. You will learn how to navigate chaotic situations by transforming old habits, thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve you.
For individuals seeking clarity, I provide psychological and educational testing for ADHD and/or Autism among college students and adults.
Are you struggling with: racing thoughts, anxiety, lack of focus and concentration? Are you having trouble sleeping at night? If so, clinical research has shown that yoga, mindfulness and psychotherapy are sometimes better solutions than medication. When things fall apart I can help you find ways to use hard times to cultivate wisdom, compassion and courage. My goal is to guide you on a journey of self-fulfillment and true happiness. You will learn how to navigate chaotic situations by transforming old habits, thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve you.
(619) 324-3858 View (619) 324-3858
Photo of Brenda Wilkinson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenda Wilkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I have additional training in the areas of autism, childhood behavior issues, and preschoolers.
As a therapist and parenting coach, I have devoted my career to helping people change their lives in positive ways. These changes can involve assisting parents in altering the problematic behavior of their children, coaching to achieve life goals, or overcoming troublesome habits. I use a positive, solution-oriented approach to maximize performance and help people solve the problems in their lives. I use a combination of individual, couples and family based work to allow the whole family to be part of the solution.
I have additional training in the areas of autism, childhood behavior issues, and preschoolers.
As a therapist and parenting coach, I have devoted my career to helping people change their lives in positive ways. These changes can involve assisting parents in altering the problematic behavior of their children, coaching to achieve life goals, or overcoming troublesome habits. I use a positive, solution-oriented approach to maximize performance and help people solve the problems in their lives. I use a combination of individual, couples and family based work to allow the whole family to be part of the solution.
(858) 376-7969 View (858) 376-7969
Photo of Marni Stueland, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marni Stueland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
I also have an extensive background in working with children and their families struggling with issues related to diagnoses within Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I have been working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy for over 25 years. I graduated from The University of Southern California in 1994 and received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at The University of San Diego in 1997. My focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My goal is to bring a sense of warmth and compassion to the therapy process, valuing a focus on each individual's strengths and resiliency. I bring my clinical knowledge as well as my personal life experiences to the therapy process.
I also have an extensive background in working with children and their families struggling with issues related to diagnoses within Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I have been working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy for over 25 years. I graduated from The University of Southern California in 1994 and received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at The University of San Diego in 1997. My focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My goal is to bring a sense of warmth and compassion to the therapy process, valuing a focus on each individual's strengths and resiliency. I bring my clinical knowledge as well as my personal life experiences to the therapy process.
(858) 217-5840 View (858) 217-5840
Photo of Shirley Duarte, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shirley Duarte
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I am a licensed therapist who is a compassionate and motivated individual with excellent listening skills, capable of quickly building rapport with clients. With over 12 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I also have extensive experience with neurodivergent clients, such as those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Some clients are comfortable just being heard by their therapist, and others might seek a transformative process utilizing unique tools from specific modalities.
I am a licensed therapist who is a compassionate and motivated individual with excellent listening skills, capable of quickly building rapport with clients. With over 12 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I also have extensive experience with neurodivergent clients, such as those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Some clients are comfortable just being heard by their therapist, and others might seek a transformative process utilizing unique tools from specific modalities.
(818) 450-5830 View (818) 450-5830
Jean Sullivan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
(858) 207-3856 View (858) 207-3856
Photo of Vangie Akridge, PsyD, LEP
Vangie Akridge
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PsyD, LEP
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
(619) 870-1957 View (619) 870-1957
Photo of Erica Petree, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Petree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Your current situation does not define you. It's a bump in the road, a pit-stop to learn from. It takes a village and I am here to be a part of your village. My scope of competence is in trauma, postpartum, attachment, family conflict, anxiety, school/work related problems, parent education, parent-child conflict, divorce, co-parenting and depression. Don't let the pain and struggle of your present situation keep you from living your truth. I am licensed in Tennessee, Texas, California and Virginia. Offering in-person therapy in Tennessee and virtual to Tennessee, California, Texas and Virginia.
Your current situation does not define you. It's a bump in the road, a pit-stop to learn from. It takes a village and I am here to be a part of your village. My scope of competence is in trauma, postpartum, attachment, family conflict, anxiety, school/work related problems, parent education, parent-child conflict, divorce, co-parenting and depression. Don't let the pain and struggle of your present situation keep you from living your truth. I am licensed in Tennessee, Texas, California and Virginia. Offering in-person therapy in Tennessee and virtual to Tennessee, California, Texas and Virginia.
(423) 205-5757 View (423) 205-5757
Photo of Jennifer Lundy-Aguerre - Positive Change Counseling Center, MFT, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Positive Change Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
We look forward to working with you to reach your goals in therapy. Our compassionate therapists are trained in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help you meet your goals within a short amount of time. Whether you would like to attend therapy on your own, with your partner or as a family, our therapists are ready to make a difference. You can be rest assured you are entering a non-judgemental and supportive environment when you walk through our door. Call us today to begin making positive changes in your life.
We look forward to working with you to reach your goals in therapy. Our compassionate therapists are trained in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help you meet your goals within a short amount of time. Whether you would like to attend therapy on your own, with your partner or as a family, our therapists are ready to make a difference. You can be rest assured you are entering a non-judgemental and supportive environment when you walk through our door. Call us today to begin making positive changes in your life.
(619) 733-6414 View (619) 733-6414
Photo of Carmen Grant - Carmen Grant, EMDR Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmen Grant, EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
Things have to change, but you're not sure what or how. I won't ever tell you pick yourself up from your bootstraps and suck it up. Sucking it up and denying your pain isn't brave or admirable - it is dangerous. Bravery is being here, looking for help, and building the skills you need to really live. Maybe you want to start feeling more confident, less like an imposter, more like the way other people see you. I am your therapist if you've already done some work on yourself and didn't get the results you expected.
Things have to change, but you're not sure what or how. I won't ever tell you pick yourself up from your bootstraps and suck it up. Sucking it up and denying your pain isn't brave or admirable - it is dangerous. Bravery is being here, looking for help, and building the skills you need to really live. Maybe you want to start feeling more confident, less like an imposter, more like the way other people see you. I am your therapist if you've already done some work on yourself and didn't get the results you expected.
(760) 334-5694 View (760) 334-5694
Photo of Karre Kern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karre Kern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
A warm welcome to you, I'm Karre Kern! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Notary Public providing Telehealth in California, Maine, Virginia, and Florida. My practice supports ages 9 years and up with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, stress, and trauma. I primarily utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and have more than 20 years of experience helping facilitate positive change within a diverse clientele.
A warm welcome to you, I'm Karre Kern! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Notary Public providing Telehealth in California, Maine, Virginia, and Florida. My practice supports ages 9 years and up with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, stress, and trauma. I primarily utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and have more than 20 years of experience helping facilitate positive change within a diverse clientele.
(818) 699-0190 View (818) 699-0190
Photo of Mark Spurlock, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Spurlock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Mark Spurlock MFT works with Indivdual's, Marriages and Families. He is a Christian, and also offers Pastoral Counseling to Pastors and Church leaders and Church members. He has been in the counseling profession for over 25 years. Over the past 2 decades Mark Spurlock MFT Developed the 4 point Diamond Relationship Skills Quadrant that has helped thousands of Marriages survive and ultimately thrive. This skill based approach opens the doors for couples giving them the tools they need to effectively move past bitterness, and disconnection to renewed life and connection! Emotion-Communication-Agreement-Awareness.
Mark Spurlock MFT works with Indivdual's, Marriages and Families. He is a Christian, and also offers Pastoral Counseling to Pastors and Church leaders and Church members. He has been in the counseling profession for over 25 years. Over the past 2 decades Mark Spurlock MFT Developed the 4 point Diamond Relationship Skills Quadrant that has helped thousands of Marriages survive and ultimately thrive. This skill based approach opens the doors for couples giving them the tools they need to effectively move past bitterness, and disconnection to renewed life and connection! Emotion-Communication-Agreement-Awareness.
(858) 462-5054 View (858) 462-5054
Photo of Sandra Milstein-Ostrom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Milstein-Ostrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
Are you hurting or lonely and want to make some changes so you can feel better? Do you feel stuck in a life that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Do you constantly worry about money, your weight, your sleep, your relationships, but things don't seem to change? Maybe others don't really know what's really going on inside of you. They all seem to have their act together, yet you don't. Are you tired of pretending that everything's fine, when inside you feel a deep sense that something is missing? Do you put yourself down, often blaming yourself for your troubles, yet being tough on yourself is not helping? Tired of being tired?
Are you hurting or lonely and want to make some changes so you can feel better? Do you feel stuck in a life that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Do you constantly worry about money, your weight, your sleep, your relationships, but things don't seem to change? Maybe others don't really know what's really going on inside of you. They all seem to have their act together, yet you don't. Are you tired of pretending that everything's fine, when inside you feel a deep sense that something is missing? Do you put yourself down, often blaming yourself for your troubles, yet being tough on yourself is not helping? Tired of being tired?
(858) 251-6685 View (858) 251-6685
Photo of Walter Patrick Martin, LMFT, EMDR-C, C-LENS, CATP, CCTP-II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Walter Patrick Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR-C, C-LENS, CATP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92074
Began Practice in 1999 Walter begins treatment with a brief solution focus treatment plan for couples, adults, children, teens. His style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. Walter also has published a book titled "Heart and Soul Toward Intimacy: Couples Workbook." Certified in LENS treatment helps your brain heal with low energy feedback, utilizing EEG color brain mapping technology provides freedom of life long symptoms. BEGIN by Logging into website, 1st complete new patient paperwork, 2nd schedule your appointment online at orange banner. Refundable Deposit required.
Began Practice in 1999 Walter begins treatment with a brief solution focus treatment plan for couples, adults, children, teens. His style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. Walter also has published a book titled "Heart and Soul Toward Intimacy: Couples Workbook." Certified in LENS treatment helps your brain heal with low energy feedback, utilizing EEG color brain mapping technology provides freedom of life long symptoms. BEGIN by Logging into website, 1st complete new patient paperwork, 2nd schedule your appointment online at orange banner. Refundable Deposit required.
(760) 490-0370 View (760) 490-0370
Photo of Sarah Ray, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Sarah Ray
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Now more than ever, it seems that so many of us are facing circumstances that make life stressful, confusing, and painful at times. The purpose of our work together is to help you live a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. Whether you want to be a happier person, to have better relationships, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this. I combine support, insight, and direction to help you have the skills to better manage your life, and obtain greater peace and joy. There is no greater privilege than helping a person improve their life, and I appreciate the opportunity to help you!
Now more than ever, it seems that so many of us are facing circumstances that make life stressful, confusing, and painful at times. The purpose of our work together is to help you live a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. Whether you want to be a happier person, to have better relationships, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this. I combine support, insight, and direction to help you have the skills to better manage your life, and obtain greater peace and joy. There is no greater privilege than helping a person improve their life, and I appreciate the opportunity to help you!
(619) 378-4402 View (619) 378-4402
Photo of Cynthia Glasgow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Glasgow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Cynthia Glasgow, LMFT (41605). I believe that it is important for each of us to feel understood, valued, and recognized. I also believe that your therapy is your process, which I hope to be a helpful part of as we identify your strengths and possibilities to create positive and meaningful experiences. My goal is to assist you in getting to where you want to be by starting where you are.
Cynthia Glasgow, LMFT (41605). I believe that it is important for each of us to feel understood, valued, and recognized. I also believe that your therapy is your process, which I hope to be a helpful part of as we identify your strengths and possibilities to create positive and meaningful experiences. My goal is to assist you in getting to where you want to be by starting where you are.
(925) 369-5539 View (925) 369-5539
Photo of Esther Krohner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esther Krohner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Life is already so complicated. My hope is to empower you to make yours more fulfilling. Our work will take action and help you become your own best ally. I'm a therapist for people who want to gain a clear focus and feel good enough. My strength is in relationships, whether those are with ourselves, our children, or our partners. I offer couples counseling, parent guidance and coaching, and family and individual therapy. My style is warm, client centered, holistic and down to earth. I can help when anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, high-conflict and big decisions are interfering with life and relationships.
Life is already so complicated. My hope is to empower you to make yours more fulfilling. Our work will take action and help you become your own best ally. I'm a therapist for people who want to gain a clear focus and feel good enough. My strength is in relationships, whether those are with ourselves, our children, or our partners. I offer couples counseling, parent guidance and coaching, and family and individual therapy. My style is warm, client centered, holistic and down to earth. I can help when anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, high-conflict and big decisions are interfering with life and relationships.
(650) 300-3891 View (650) 300-3891
Photo of Erika Beckles - Live Well Family Counseling Services, INC., PhD, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Live Well Family Counseling Services, INC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92074
Live Well Family Counseling Services, Inc. is a behavioral health facility that offers a wide range of therapeutic services both in person and via telehealth. Our experienced therapists are passionate about helping individuals, families and couples work through some of the tough patches that life may bring. Sometimes life can feel, challenging, overwhelming and even down right impossible. In your toughest moments our team is available to partner with you during your journey
Live Well Family Counseling Services, Inc. is a behavioral health facility that offers a wide range of therapeutic services both in person and via telehealth. Our experienced therapists are passionate about helping individuals, families and couples work through some of the tough patches that life may bring. Sometimes life can feel, challenging, overwhelming and even down right impossible. In your toughest moments our team is available to partner with you during your journey
(760) 364-9979 View (760) 364-9979
Photo of Anthony Parham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthony Parham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92074
(619) 492-4566 View (619) 492-4566
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.