Hope, Help, and Understanding—Supporting Your Child’s Journey with Autism
Watching your child struggle with communication, social situations, or emotional ups and downs can leave you feeling helpless, exhausted, and uncertain about the future. You want to help them thrive, but some days it’s hard to know where to begin.
At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Clermont, we understand the weight you’re carrying. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
Our personalized, compassionate autism therapy is designed not just for your child, but for your whole family. Whether it’s improving social skills, emotional regulation, or day-to-day independence, our team walks beside you every step of the way—offering guidance, support, and hope.
Because every child deserves a chance to shine. And every parent deserves a team that truly cares.
What is Autism Therapy?
If your child has been diagnosed with autism, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Autism therapy is here to help make everyday life a little easier, more manageable, and more connected.
Understanding the Challenges
Many parents come to us feeling overwhelmed. You may have noticed signs like:
- Difficulty with eye contact or social interaction
- Trouble expressing needs or understanding others
- Repetitive behaviors or intense focus on specific topics
- Sensory sensitivities—being easily overwhelmed by lights, sounds, or touch
- Struggles with emotional regulation or sudden meltdowns
- Delays in speech or language development
These challenges can affect day-to-day life, making school, friendships, and even simple routines feel hard. That’s where therapy comes in.
At Total Life Counseling, we offer personalized support that focuses on you. Whether it’s building communication skills, learning how to manage emotions, or simply feeling more confident in social situations, therapy is shaped around your unique needs and strengths.
Some sessions might look like play. Others might involve hands-on activities, calming techniques, or guided conversations. Every step is taken with care, at your pace, in a safe and supportive space.
We understand that every child is different. That’s why we offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA therapy), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Sand Tray Therapy, designed to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and other developmental differences.
| Start your journey toward growth, connection, and confidence—one empowering session at a time. Book your consultation with TLC today. |
|---|
How Does TLC Support Children with Autism?
If your child is struggling with things like social skills, emotional outbursts, behavioral challenges, or simply feeling understood, you’re not alone. These moments can be tough—for them and for you. That’s why our approach goes beyond therapy sessions.
At TLC, we believe in supporting the whole family. We meet your child where they are—with compassion, patience, and a personalized plan that fits their world. But we also walk beside you—because your wellbeing matters too.
We focus on real-life, meaningful progress:
- Helping your child communicate more clearly
- Building friendships and social confidence
- Learning to manage big emotions and meltdowns
- Encouraging independence, step by step
- Guiding you as a parent, so you feel confident too
Whether your child needs one-on-one therapy, help adjusting at school, or group sessions to practice social skills—we offer support that grows with your child.
Personalized Autism Support, Right Here in Clermont
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA Therapy)
If your child struggles with daily routines, big emotions, or communication, ABA therapy can help turn frustration into progress.
At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Clermont, we offer gentle, research-backed support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder—focusing on small, meaningful wins that build lasting confidence.
What We Work On:
- Communication Skills – Helping your child express themselves clearly
- Daily Routines – Building independence in dressing, eating, hygiene
- Emotional Regulation – Managing meltdowns, anxiety, or sensory overload
- Behavior Support – Reducing challenging behaviors with care and consistency
Our sessions are playful, personalized, and progress-focused—always at your child’s pace.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Children on the autism spectrum often struggle with anxiety, frustration, or big emotions they can’t always explain. At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Clermont, we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help children make sense of their thoughts and feelings—and learn what to do with them.
With CBT, We Help Children:
- Understand and express emotions in healthy ways
- Tackle everyday challenges with problem-solving tools
- Build confidence and emotional resilience
- Reduce anxiety, stress, and social fears
CBT offers your child practical tools to feel more in control, more confident, and more connected.
Social Skills Groups
Making friends shouldn’t feel scary—but for many kids on the autism spectrum, it is. Struggles with social cues, group settings, or just knowing how to start a conversation can feel overwhelming—for them, and for you.
At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Clermont, we create warm, supportive social skills groups where kids can safely learn how to connect with others and feel more at ease in social situations.
What We Focus On:
- Starting conversations – Learning to take turns, listen, and speak with confidence
- Understanding social cues – Picking up on body language, tone, and facial expressions
- Making real friendships – Knowing how to build and keep connections
- Handling tough moments – Navigating teasing, disagreements, or group dynamics
Led by caring autism counselors, our sessions feel more like playdates with purpose—fun, engaging, and full of real growth.
Sand Tray Therapy
Sometimes, kids don’t know how to say what they’re feeling—and that’s okay. Big emotions like fear, anxiety, or sadness often show up through behavior instead: outbursts, withdrawal, or feeling overwhelmed.
At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Clermont, we use Sand Tray Therapy as a gentle, nonverbal way for children to express what’s going on inside—without having to say a word.
Sand Tray Therapy removes the pressure of having to “explain.” Instead, it lets children explore feelings in their own way, at their own pace. Whether they’re working through stress, trauma, or social struggles, this hands-on therapy helps them feel seen, understood, and supported.
| Gain the clarity and confidence you need to support your child—every step of the way, even beyond our sessions. Call us today for a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
Call on +14072480030 |
|---|
Parent & Family Counseling
Raising a child with autism brings so much love—but also a lot of questions, stress, and emotional ups and downs. At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Clermont, our Parent and Family Autism Counseling is here to support you through every part of the journey.
We walk alongside you, helping you:
- Understand autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – Discover your child’s unique strengths and challenges
- Strengthen communication – Build better connection and understanding within the family
- Manage stress together – Learn calming strategies to reduce frustration and emotional overwhelm
- Create a nurturing home environment – Reinforce therapy goals and support your child’s growth at home
With the guidance of our experienced autism counselors, you’ll feel more confident, supported, and equipped to navigate each step with love and clarity.
| Gain the clarity and confidence you need to support your child—every step of the way, even beyond our sessions. Call us today for a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Call on +14072480030 |
|---|
Why Families Choose TLC?
- Therapists Who Truly Get It – Our team has deep experience working with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, PTSD, and more. But more than that, we lead with compassion.
- Therapy That Fits Your Child – No two kids are the same. We personalize every plan based on your child’s strengths, struggles, and goals.
- Proven, Effective Methods – From ABA and CBT to social skills groups, we use evidence-based therapies that lead to real, lasting change.
- Support for Your Whole Family – We’re here for you, too—parents, caregivers, even siblings. Because when one family member is supported, everyone benefits.
- Therapy That Fits Your Life – Whether you need in-clinic, in-home, or school-based sessions, we offer flexible options that work around your schedule.
| At Total Life Counseling, we don’t just provide therapy—we help children grow, connect, and shine in ways that feel natural and joyful. Let’s give your child the support they deserve to thrive with confidence. |
|---|
Testimonials
A Few Kind Words From Satisfied Clients
“He is doing so well! We are continuing with the diet changes and vitamins and his attitude is so much better. You were right! – kids don’t see you for very long [because of the diet, supplements and coaching]! We are so grateful for your help. We were in a bad place before we saw you and I am really amazed at the difference.”
Anne Marie
Parent
“So glad you duked it out with us. You always gave way above and beyond what I think most in your field would have. And I don’t think anyone else could have reached our teenage son as you did. Thanks from the bottom of my heart.”
Kristi
Parent & Teacher
“Jim, thank you again for giving so much of your time on Friday. The feedback I got from everyone that attended was extremely positive. I also gave a copy of your DVD to one of our teachers. Your help will make an enormous difference for Daniel both at home and at school.”
Anonymous
“We were so thankful to Total Life Counseling. Over the past five years, we had seen five other counselors/psychologists with our son, but in the last 1 1/2 years our son gained skills to cope. The ADHD/Social Skills group helped our son realize that he was not alone. The parenting skills group helped us know how to anticipate problems and equipped us to handle them. Thank you to Jim and the caring team of professionals at Total Life Counseling – you are an answer to prayer.”
Tim & Janet
Parents
Licensed Counselors & Therapists
Meet Our Team of Certified & Experienced Professionals
Total Life Counseling Center consists of Licensed Counselors, Masters Level Therapists, Espanol Counselors, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Business Coaches, Image Enhancement Coaches who provide counseling for emotional, mental, physical and spiritual care including marriage, individual, family, substance abuse and more. Our team of certified and experienced professionals, dedicated to serving a comprehensive spectrum of mental health and relationship issues such as couples, women and men’s issues, children and teens with oppositional defiance, video game addiction, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, and trauma survivors, is here to support and guide you through your journey towards healing and navigating life transitions. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the counseling provided but also builds trust within the community and among potential clients, who may be seeking support.
We offer next level counselors specialized in areas such as relationships, video game & drug/alcohol addictions, abuse, trauma, depression, and ADHD. Our Therapists are EMDR (eye movement desensitization) trauma therapy trained, cognitive behavioral therapy, specialize in ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Children, and are also professional Gottman method marriage couples counselors to give the best results to couples and to provide the best comprehensive spectrum of mental health and relationship care for our clients.
Struggling with Anger? We offer 8 hour anger management group therapy!
Discounted Rates and the president of Total Life Counseling Center Jim West does not want to turn people away and we have counselors at various levels of experience at a discounted rate that are trained by our next level counselors!
Dana West
MSW, Licensed clinical social worker
Vice President, Counselor, Guest Speaker, Addictions, Trauma, Couples, Abuse, and more!
Gemima McMahon
MA, LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR
Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in Women’s issues, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Cutting, Couples, Children and Teenagers and more!
David Duany
MA, LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR
Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in ADHD, Social Skills, and Anger Management counseling for children, young adults, and families.
Sarah Dornas Albuquerque
BS, Mental Health Counseling Student Intern
Anxiety, Depression, Children, Teens, Young Adults and Adult Counseling
Why Choose TLC for Autism Counselor Clermont?
We’re more than just therapists. We’re a team of compassionate professionals who truly care about your child’s growth and your family’s well-being. Whether your little one is navigating autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, social struggles, or behavioral challenges, we’re here to help them feel understood, supported, and empowered.
From ABA therapy and social skills groups to one-on-one counseling, everything we offer is tailored to your child’s unique needs—and delivered with heart. Whether you prefer sessions in the comfort of your home or at our warm and welcoming center in Clermont, we walk beside you every step of the way.
If you’ve been searching for autism therapy near me or a caring autism counselor in Clermont, you’ve found a place that truly gets it. At TLC, we’re all about real progress, gentle support, and building brighter futures—together.
Contact us today and take the first step toward a brighter future for your child!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child needs autism therapy?
If your child struggles with social interactions, communication, emotional regulation, or daily life skills, therapy can help. Early intervention is key, but seeking support is never too late.
What is the difference between ABA therapy and CBT?
- ABA therapy focuses on behavioral changes using positive reinforcement techniques.
- CBT therapy helps children understand emotions, manage anxiety, and develop coping skills.
Our autism counselor Clermont will help determine the best approach for your child’s unique needs.
Can therapy sessions be conducted at home or school?
Yes! We offer home-based and school-based therapy to provide support in real-life settings where children feel most comfortable.
How long does autism therapy take?
Every child is unique. Therapy duration depends on your child’s needs and progress. Our goal is to provide consistent support for long-term success.
How can I get started with an autism counselor near me?
It’s simple! Call us today for a free consultation, and we’ll help create a personalized therapy plan for your child.
Total Life In The News
Total Life Counseling Play Therapy Experts Have Been Featured On Multiple TV Networks and News Stations:
Our subject matter experts have participated in over 200 national & local news interviews and they are here for you!
At Total Life Counseling Center our Counselors are Experts for National and Local TV, Radio and Print Media. We have an excellent reputation amongst graduate & private schools, attorneys, doctors, therapists, providers and corporations. We strive to ensure our therapists have diverse clinical backgrounds, to allow us to match each client to the therapist that will best meet his or her needs.
ADHD Classroom Tips Defiant Teens Bullying Tips
Social Skills Summer Camp | ADHD & High Functioning ASD
Foods with Serotonin for Increased Mood & Motivation
Social Skills Dance Camp | ADHD & Aspergers Counseling Expert
Struggling with ADHD, ASD or Defiance?
It’s Time to Stress Less!
Everyone knows someone struggling with ADHD, ASD or Defiance. So, Jim West Developed the StressLess Educational Series as a comprehensive video program to help people all over the world! StressLess Now or Book Jim as a Guest Speaker Today! Click for more info and free video tips.
Clermont Office Location
Our marriage & family therapy, child, teen counseling, rapid trauma resolution and play therapy services are conveniently located on East Highway 50 in Clermont, FL.
