Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) & Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

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Jessica has been doing mental health counseling and art therapy predominately with children age 5 and up with special needs for over 10 years.   When addressing the needs of ASD and ADHD clients, Jessica takes into account age, developmental issues, cognitive and physical capabilities as well as symptoms/ areas of concern. 

Jessica incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, visual art expression, mindfulness, play, movement and music into individual and group sessions.  

Psycho-educational components are used to help foster understanding and support of ASD and ADHD for clients, families and communities, such as school personnel. 

Families benefit from using behavioral intervention plans, such as 1-2-3 Magic and incentive charts for the home.  These strategies, tailored to the individual needs of the family, help establish a successful way to monitor progress, increase motivation and make responsible choices as connections are made between behaviors and outcomes.  In addition, Jessica provides resources, worksheets and visual aids that can also be helpful for parents and teachers. 

In addition, the focus of therapy with ASD and ADHD clients is on developing and sharpening tools for communication, peer relations, coping and anger management.  These skills allow clients to express themselves in appropriate, understandable ways while having self-control.

Jessica also finds it important to assess sensory needs and determine appropriate outlets and resources to help in this area. 

ASD and ADHD individuals frequently experience sensitivity to various internal and external stimuli—from repetitive thoughts and fascinations to uncomfortable materials and distracting environments—it is crucial to address these sensory needs.