Psychiatry SPECIALTIES
AUTISM TREATMENT IN ST. PETERSBURG, FL
Expert autism psychiatry services in St. Pete that are tailored to support individuals and families at every step.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them. It is commonly characterized by:
Challenges with Social Interaction:
Difficulty understanding social cues, forming relationships, or maintaining eye contact.
Communication Difficulties
Delayed speech, limited verbal skills, or difficulty expressing emotions.
Repetitive Behaviors
Engaging in repetitive actions, adhering to strict routines, or exhibiting intense focus on specific interests.
Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning that symptoms and abilities can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may require minimal support, while others benefit from more intensive interventions.
Early diagnosis and comprehensive psychiatric care are key to supporting individuals with ASD. With the right guidance, individuals can develop skills, manage challenges, and lead fulfilling lives.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Client Love
Dr. Rachel McKenna is an amazing and very caring psychiatrist!
“My daughter has severe autism and Dr. McKenna has been an extremely valuable asset helping us manage her. Dr. McKenna is kind, caring, empathetic, and extremely brilliant! I feel very fortunate to have her to rely on while managing the difficulties my daughter faces due to her condition. She is extremely skilled in both adult and pediatric psychiatry, and I feel very confident recommending her to anyone who may need the services of a psychiatrist. Thank you for all you do Dr. McKenna!”
Different Types of Autism Disorders
Autistic Disorder (Classic Autism)
This is the traditional diagnosis most people associate with autism. Individuals with classic autism often experience significant challenges in communication, social interaction, and behavioral flexibility.
Asperger’s Syndrome
Often described as a "high-functioning" form of autism, individuals with Asperger’s syndrome typically have average or above-average intelligence but may struggle with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and narrow interests.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
This diagnosis was previously used for individuals who exhibit some, but not all, characteristics of autism. It has since been incorporated into the broader ASD diagnosis.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
A rare condition where children develop typically for a few years and then experience a significant regression in language, social, and motor skills.
Rett Syndrome
Primarily affecting girls, Rett syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes developmental regression, severe motor impairments, and repetitive hand movements. While it is no longer classified under ASD, it shares some overlapping traits.
How To Get Started With Psychiatric Services in St. Petersburg, FL
one
Schedule Initial Call
Reach out to us to book your first appointment. Whether you prefer online or in-person services, we'll find a time that works best for you
TWO
Discover You Needs and Call
During your consultation, we'll explore your mental health concerns, medical history, and goals for treatment. This helps us create a tailored plan that suits your unique needs.
THREE
Begin Your Personalized Treatment Plan
With a clear diagnosis and customized approach, you'll start your journey to improved mental health. Our expert psychiatrists will guide you every step of the wav, ensuring you feel supported and empowered.
Recognizing the Signs of Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) manifests in a variety of ways, and early identification can make a significant difference in providing effective support. Here are some key signs to look for:
Social Challenges
Individuals with autism may struggle with making eye contact, interpreting social cues, or forming and maintaining relationships.
Communication Difficulties
Delayed speech, repetitive language, or challenges in expressing emotions or needs are common indicators of ASD.
Repetitive Behaviors
Engaging in repetitive actions, adhering strictly to routines, or showing an intense focus on specific interests are often observed in individuals with autism.
Sensory Sensitivities
Overreaction or underreaction to sensory inputs, such as loud sounds, bright lights, or certain textures, is another hallmark of ASD.
If you or a loved one exhibit these signs, seeking a professional evaluation is crucial. Early intervention can help identify strengths, address challenges, and create a tailored plan for support.
OUR MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALTIES
Our Team
OWNER & psychiatrist
Dr. Rachel McKenna
Dr. Rachel McKenna is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general, child, and adolescent psychiatry. With extensive experience working with individuals across all age groups, she has provided expert care in specialized clinics for autism, psychosis, mood disorders, ADHD, eating disorders, and behavioral disorders.
Dr. McKenna completed her medical training through the prestigious Six-Year Accelerated Combined B.A./M.D. Program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She pursued her general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, a nationally recognized institution for psychiatric training.
She holds board certifications in General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in multiple states, including Florida and New York. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. McKenna has served in leadership roles such as Chief Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellow and Medical Director for a multidisciplinary psychiatric practice.
Recognized for her excellence in patient care, she has been named one of Florida’s Top Doctors and Best Psychiatrist of St. Petersburg for several consecutive years. Her practice focuses on evidence-based psychiatric and substance use treatment, integrating medication management with therapeutic interventions to support long-term mental wellness..
psychiatrist
Dr. Alison Larson
Dr. Alison Larson is a board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. With a strong foundation in evidence-based psychiatric care, she has extensive experience working with a diverse range of patients and conditions, including OCD, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Larson earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her General Psychiatry Residency at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University and further specialized in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through a fellowship at the University of Florida College of Medicine, where she also served as Chief Fellow.
She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, the Florida Psychiatric Society, and the American Psychiatric Association. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Larson is dedicated to psychiatric education and advocacy, having presented on topics such as trauma and PTSD in children and adolescents, adolescent mental health, and the psychiatric treatment of substance use disorders.
Dr. Larson is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care, integrating medication management and therapy to support long-term mental wellness.
OFFICE MANAGER
Erin Guin
She is here to assist in any way she can in helping our current and new patients access the care that they deserve!
Our Comprehensive Approach to Autism Care
At Haven Psychiatry, we believe that every individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) deserves a personalized, supportive approach that considers their unique needs and strengths. Here’s how we can help:
Thorough Evaluation
Our process begins with a detailed assessment to gain a complete understanding of an individual’s abilities, challenges, and goals. This allows us to create a tailored plan that focuses on their unique strengths and areas for growth.
Medication Management
For individuals experiencing co-occurring conditions like anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, we provide carefully managed medication plans to enhance overall well-being and support daily functioning.Therapeutic Referrals
We collaborate with therapists, behavioral specialists, and other professionals to provide targeted interventions that improve social, communication, and behavioral skills. This ensures a well-rounded approach to care.Family-Centered Support
Caregivers play a critical role in supporting individuals with autism. We offer education and guidance to help families create a nurturing and structured environment at home, fostering success in everyday life.
At Haven Psychiatry, we’re here to help you navigate autism with compassion and expertise. Together, we can create a path toward greater understanding, growth, and empowerment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Psychiatry Services
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A psychiatrist provides medical support, including medication management and treatment for co-occurring conditions, while collaborating with other specialists.
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While there’s no “cure” for autism, medication can help manage specific symptoms like anxiety, hyperactivity, or irritability.
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Yes, we offer autism psychiatry services for all ages, tailoring our approach to each individual’s needs.
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Our team provides family education and guidance to help caregivers create a positive and supportive environment.
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Haven Psychiatry is a cash-pay practice and does not accept insurance. This allows us to provide personalized, high-quality care without the limitations or restrictions imposed by insurance companies.
However, we’re happy to provide you with a superbill—a detailed receipt of your services—that you can submit to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits.
If you have questions about reimbursement or navigating your insurance benefits, we’re here to help guide you through the process.
schedule a consultation
Support for Autism Starts Here
Take the first step toward understanding, growth, and tailored care for you or your loved one. We’re here to help every step of the way.