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Individual Support Services

Our work with children, adolescents, and adults who are or may be on the autism spectrum begins with a meeting in which we learn more about the individual and their need for evaluation or treatment. Because family support is encouraged in our practice, parents and other caregivers often participate in this initial meeting so that we can fully understand the system of support for the individual. This initial intake allows us to determine which of the services below are best fit to the needs of the individual. Working in partnership, we will develop a plan for evaluation and treatment and identify a therapist or a combination of therapists who can best provide those services. 

We offer services in person and, where possible, via telehealth to best meet the needs of your family in a safe and supportive environment.

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Individul Therapy
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Therapy for Individuals with Autism

Though many individuals with autism spectrum disorder receive services from school, home-based agencies, job coaches, or other professionals, some may need additional support in the form of individual psychotherapy. This one-on-one work with a compassionate psychologist who is well-trained in autism treatment can provide consistent support and skill building that complements services in other settings. Infused with a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals with autism, we employ science-based methods such as behavioral skills training and cognitive behavior therapy to address concerns. Our treatment sessions can focus on any of the following for children, adolescents, or adults with autism: 

  • For newly diagnosed individuals, psychoeducation about autism and what it means to them

  • Developing social and communication skills at school, work, or home

  • Navigating relationships with family, friends, or romantic partners

  • Learning to cope with difficult emotions such as anger, anxiety, or sadness

  • Managing distress related to a need for sameness, repetition, or order

  • Increasing flexibility

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Diagnostic Evaluation

Diagnostic Evaluation

In our diagnostic evaluations of autism, we strive to create a setting where understanding meets expertise. We utilize diagnostic tools that are supported by research, using individual and caregiver report as well as direct observations and interactions to inform our diagnosis. Following the evaluation, we provide guidance and support for the individual's next steps. Our diagnostic evaluations include the following:

  • Developmental history interviews with individual and/or parents

  • Direct interactions and observations, using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule

  • Assessment of cognitive skills

  • Evaluation of adaptive skills, such as vocational, self-help, and leisure skills

  • Evaluation of social skills using individual and/or parent report

  • As needed, information gathered from teachers and school setting

  • Follow-up meeting to review the results of the evaluation and identify next steps for support

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Psychoeducational Assessment

Children and adolescents who have previously been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder may benefit from a comprehensive assessment of their cognitive, behavioral, and adaptive skills.  These assessments can be used to inform curricular programming at school, as specified in Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans. Outcomes may also inform functional goals for home and community programming. Psychoeducational assessments may comprise the following elements: 

  • Developmental history interviews with caregivers

  • Assessment of cognitive skills

  • Evaluation of adaptive skills, such as vocational, social, self-help, and leisure skills

  • Curricular assessments commonly used to guide school, home, and community programming

  • As needed, information gathered from teachers and school setting

  • Follow-up meeting to review the results of the evaluation and identify next steps for support

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Transition Planning

Transition Planning

Individuals with autism and their families are encouraged to look ahead to the next stage of life to identify skills and supports that will promote success. However, future planning can be overwhelming and stressful for family members, and many may not know where to begin in their search for services. Our clinicians can help families navigate the resources available as they consider their next steps in the following transitions: 

  • Preschool to elementary school, middle school, and high school

  • College preparation

  • Adolescence to adulthood

  • High school or college to employment

  • Home to a residential setting

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