Autism Spectrum Disorder
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder process the world in a unique and intricate way. Some common struggles of children on the spectrum are repetitious play, social skill deficits (i.e., eye contact, sharing and turn taking, initiating play), maintaining play, relating to others, managing feelings, imaginative play, and connecting with their world. When autistic children can learn skills to improve functioning, they are less likely to have behavioral issues and can more easily function within their environment.
Play Therapy
Play Therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach primarily used to help children ages 3 to 10 explore their lives and freely express repressed thoughts and emotions through play. Therapeutic play normally takes place in a safe, comfortable playroom, where very few rules or limits are imposed on the child, encouraging free expression and allowing the therapist to observe the child’s choices, decisions, and play style. The goal is to help children learn to express themselves in healthier ways, become more respectful and empathetic, and discover new and more positive ways to solve problems.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is based on the assumption that a person’s behavior and feelings are the result of learned (and often faulty) thinking patterns. The cognitive-behavioral model says that the areas of behavior, thought and feeling all affect one another, so changes made in any one area necessarily affect both other areas.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy involves evaluating the way the client thinks and feels from situation to situation, helping him or her identify faulty thinking patterns that were learned earlier in life. CBT includes tasks and strategies designed to help the client re-evaluate his or her core beliefs and cognitive patterns, allowing for a more informed, conscious decision as to whether these beliefs are, in fact, accurate or desirable.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy also includes specific components aimed at altering behavioral responses. CBT work commonly involves practical strategies for problem solving, time management and increased focus. If a client wishes to change careers, lose weight or improve his dating life, for instance, CBT helps him better structure his time, set reasonable goals and become increasingly aware of self- defeating habits as he pursues his desired behavior.
Other Areas of Specialty
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Attention deficit disorders
- School issues
- Mood Disorders
- Career counseling
- Self-esteem issues
- Peer relationships
- Anger management
