Autism Counselling in Erskineville, NSW
![Photo of Malak Shakhtour, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c222ff9-0838-4abf-a72c-7ee3e02637d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Malak Shakhtour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erskineville, NSW 2043
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
![Photo of Tal Schlosser - MyLife Psychologists, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a364de61-882b-49d1-a1ef-3890629eaf2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
MyLife Psychologists
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Erskineville, NSW 2043
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists provide help to adults, adolescents and couples navigating a wide variety of mental health concerns and challenges. We understand that life can be challenging, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance to navigate these difficulties. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists provide help to adults, adolescents and couples navigating a wide variety of mental health concerns and challenges. We understand that life can be challenging, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance to navigate these difficulties. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
![Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526658e0-15dd-4a25-bfbf-c1ddeed37b36/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erskineville, NSW 2043
“Of all the forces in the universe, the hardest to overcome is force of habit”—Terry Pratchett. As a queer, non-binary (LGBTQIA+) therapist, I offer a judgement-free and affirming space to unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress/anxiety, and existence at whatever pace works for you. Together, we’ll puzzle out the unique bits that make you who you are and use that understanding to equip you with the tools and support you need to make positive changes in your life. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, low-pressure place where you can be yourself, using an anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
“Of all the forces in the universe, the hardest to overcome is force of habit”—Terry Pratchett. As a queer, non-binary (LGBTQIA+) therapist, I offer a judgement-free and affirming space to unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress/anxiety, and existence at whatever pace works for you. Together, we’ll puzzle out the unique bits that make you who you are and use that understanding to equip you with the tools and support you need to make positive changes in your life. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, low-pressure place where you can be yourself, using an anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
![Photo of Naomi Crellin, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ece169bd-21fb-402d-8f84-90d1dbbd3c18/1/320x400.png)
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. Some areas of focus of mine are issues relating to gender, sexuality, postnatal depression, performance anxiety, and couples therapy with a focus on atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 18+ folk who are looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. Some areas of focus of mine are issues relating to gender, sexuality, postnatal depression, performance anxiety, and couples therapy with a focus on atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 18+ folk who are looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
![Photo of Rhiannon Derrig, MSc, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eba8a80d-4c42-4f1c-98ff-45aebbcbee33/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a clincial psychotherapist and registered psychosexual therapist, I specialise in helping individuals with trauma and PTSD, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and sexual difficulties, including intimacy and trust. I am also passionate about providing support for navigating gendered, sexual, racial, and neuro diversity, and cultural identities, who may experience discrimination or internalised stigma. Centering unconditional positive regard, I work closely with the client to deeply explore how their past experiences, current situations, family background, and social elements of their lives have impacted their wellbeing.
As a clincial psychotherapist and registered psychosexual therapist, I specialise in helping individuals with trauma and PTSD, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and sexual difficulties, including intimacy and trust. I am also passionate about providing support for navigating gendered, sexual, racial, and neuro diversity, and cultural identities, who may experience discrimination or internalised stigma. Centering unconditional positive regard, I work closely with the client to deeply explore how their past experiences, current situations, family background, and social elements of their lives have impacted their wellbeing.
![Photo of Marlee Greer, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23252c8d-c615-4c1a-b2d0-e431c5f57815/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer online counselling and advocacy services for people who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, in diverse relationship structures or with complex health challenges or disability. I am committed to providing a space that is anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, fat-liberating, sex-positive, neurodiversity-affirming, disability justice-oriented, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive.
I offer online counselling and advocacy services for people who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, in diverse relationship structures or with complex health challenges or disability. I am committed to providing a space that is anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, fat-liberating, sex-positive, neurodiversity-affirming, disability justice-oriented, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive.
![Photo of Kirthana Selvaraj - Kirthana Selvaraj, Art Therapist, AThR, Counsellor, AThR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57f11036-8f5b-4598-8648-ecfea3389707/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kirthana Selvaraj, Art Therapist, AThR, Counsellor
Art Therapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Erskineville, NSW 2043 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I aim to support you within areas of relationship issues, family conflict, building confidence, racial trauma, burnout, diverse body image, gender and sexuality, work stress , imposter syndrome, social justice fatigue, coping with anxiety, depression and loneliness. My therapeutic stance is deeply embedded in an intersectional philosophy. I offer Art Therapy, where I support you to explore, using imagination, metaphor and symbolism, I also offer Counselling that is progressive, relational, creative and adaptive to your therapeutic goals.
I aim to support you within areas of relationship issues, family conflict, building confidence, racial trauma, burnout, diverse body image, gender and sexuality, work stress , imposter syndrome, social justice fatigue, coping with anxiety, depression and loneliness. My therapeutic stance is deeply embedded in an intersectional philosophy. I offer Art Therapy, where I support you to explore, using imagination, metaphor and symbolism, I also offer Counselling that is progressive, relational, creative and adaptive to your therapeutic goals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ruth Minkov, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/652761ff-6178-4779-9a56-e6ebf3f1d937/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer neuroaffirming neuropsychological, academic, Autism and ADHD assessment for teens and adults, both via Telehealth and in Abbotsford, Melbourne. I have a strong professional interest in identification of Autism in women and non-binary people, and my assessments take into consideration cultural differences and "masking". I offer follow-up sessions to assist you to process the diagnosis (or absence of a diagnosis), and to implement recommendations. I am experienced in working with the NDIS.
I offer neuroaffirming neuropsychological, academic, Autism and ADHD assessment for teens and adults, both via Telehealth and in Abbotsford, Melbourne. I have a strong professional interest in identification of Autism in women and non-binary people, and my assessments take into consideration cultural differences and "masking". I offer follow-up sessions to assist you to process the diagnosis (or absence of a diagnosis), and to implement recommendations. I am experienced in working with the NDIS.
![Photo of Gemma Illescas - always flying psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c349d211-9974-473b-8640-cf35e8cab2e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children, adolescents and adults. Areas of expertise, ADHD, Sport & Performance Psychology. Clinics in Wahroonga, St Leonards & Kincumber. Other areas of work, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Behaviour challenges, Specific Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, in the background of Trauma Informed Practices. Conduct ADHD assessments.
I work with children, adolescents and adults. Areas of expertise, ADHD, Sport & Performance Psychology. Clinics in Wahroonga, St Leonards & Kincumber. Other areas of work, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Behaviour challenges, Specific Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, in the background of Trauma Informed Practices. Conduct ADHD assessments.
![Photo of Lachlan King, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27c05998-0d3f-40ce-9994-6fc23f0ee9f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Psychologist with experience working with various presentations pertaining to neurodiversity (e.g. Autism and ADHD), anxiety, depression, familial challenges, sexuality and relationship challenges. I also have an interest in sports psychology and HR selection. I am passionate in supporting my clients to navigate barriers and empower them to live fulfilling lives. I like to think my approach is professional and insightful but warm and authentic at the same time.
I am a Registered Psychologist with experience working with various presentations pertaining to neurodiversity (e.g. Autism and ADHD), anxiety, depression, familial challenges, sexuality and relationship challenges. I also have an interest in sports psychology and HR selection. I am passionate in supporting my clients to navigate barriers and empower them to live fulfilling lives. I like to think my approach is professional and insightful but warm and authentic at the same time.
![Photo of Karen Gould, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6580d93e-3a5b-4e81-844a-eec3dbb7f9ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Gould
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Pyrmont, NSW 2009
Waitlist for new clients
I have built experience working predominantly with adult clients with the following neurotypes and conditions: ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Relationship Difficulties, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Sleep Difficulties, OCD.
With a special interest in neurodiversity, I enjoy working with clients who see the world differently and would like to open up to new and authentic ways of thinking, feeling and acting. I work with adults, older adolescents and couples, and respect all sexualities, genders and relationship styles. I can help with self exploration, opening up to new perspectives, managing difficult emotions, broadening your comfort zone and connecting with what matters to you.
I have built experience working predominantly with adult clients with the following neurotypes and conditions: ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Relationship Difficulties, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Sleep Difficulties, OCD.
With a special interest in neurodiversity, I enjoy working with clients who see the world differently and would like to open up to new and authentic ways of thinking, feeling and acting. I work with adults, older adolescents and couples, and respect all sexualities, genders and relationship styles. I can help with self exploration, opening up to new perspectives, managing difficult emotions, broadening your comfort zone and connecting with what matters to you.
![Photo of Anna Costello, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5eef6c9-d584-43af-ba4b-9e531f6088ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Anna, a Psychotherapist and Art Psychotherapist I am registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. I offer children, young people and their families a safe space to talk about what is going on for them. I believe visiting your therapist should be as routine as going to the gym. I've gained experience at Headspace, I have been working at Child Development Solutions for years where I facilitate social skills groups for children and young people on the Autism and/or ADHD spectrum and ODD. I am gentle and empathetic in my approach.
I'm Anna, a Psychotherapist and Art Psychotherapist I am registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. I offer children, young people and their families a safe space to talk about what is going on for them. I believe visiting your therapist should be as routine as going to the gym. I've gained experience at Headspace, I have been working at Child Development Solutions for years where I facilitate social skills groups for children and young people on the Autism and/or ADHD spectrum and ODD. I am gentle and empathetic in my approach.
![Photo of Tara Megan Scott - Tara - Cathartic Collaborations, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/307c38ba-5d49-4884-9426-942363d07780/1/320x400.png)
Tara - Cathartic Collaborations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Immediate availability for NDIS and Private (self funded) referrals. Hello! I'm Tara (they/them) and I provide therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks & ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
Immediate availability for NDIS and Private (self funded) referrals. Hello! I'm Tara (they/them) and I provide therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks & ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Nikki Bray, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59d63fd0-14b2-4cf8-ac64-442d8990df79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Bray
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000 (Online Only)
I offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults.
Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych Clinical Psychology on the Gold Coast. I have availability for new adult clients for therapy via telehealth only. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults. I I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. My values are empowerment, self-advocacy and authenticity. I provide support for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, emotion dysregulation difficulties, insomnia, perimenopause, low self-esteem, perfectionism, autistic burnout, and supporting neurodivergent adults.
I offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults.
Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych Clinical Psychology on the Gold Coast. I have availability for new adult clients for therapy via telehealth only. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults. I I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. My values are empowerment, self-advocacy and authenticity. I provide support for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, emotion dysregulation difficulties, insomnia, perimenopause, low self-esteem, perfectionism, autistic burnout, and supporting neurodivergent adults.
![Photo of Mj (Mary Joy) Basilio, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53254407-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mj (Mary Joy) Basilio
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Waitlist for new clients
I have the training and experience to conduct assessments of cognitive abilities, learning difficulties, ADHD, and Autism.
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first stride toward a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming the relationships with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If you're ready to make some changes, let's set up a time to talk.
I have the training and experience to conduct assessments of cognitive abilities, learning difficulties, ADHD, and Autism.
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first stride toward a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming the relationships with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If you're ready to make some changes, let's set up a time to talk.
![Photo of Nicolle Griffin, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ae86e99-d787-43d5-8940-576f038569cf/3/320x400.png)
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community. We are an online telehealth-only service. Our team is made up of neurodivergent, neuro-affirming, gender diverse, and queer/LGBTIQA+ health professionals.
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community. We are an online telehealth-only service. Our team is made up of neurodivergent, neuro-affirming, gender diverse, and queer/LGBTIQA+ health professionals.
![Photo of Krysia Kostrz, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35f86d37-6532-4550-abcc-4e137e226b0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm a neurodiversity-affirming psychologist and love working with people who seek to discover more about themselves. I'm lucky to be part of a moment of realisation, of clarity and understanding - when everything finally makes sense! I provide ADHD and Autism assessments for Adults via Telehealth, and I also provide Therapy for Adolescents (16+) and Adults experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD support and sensory and learning differences. After hour appointments are available after hours, and I have appointments available in the next 1-2 weeks. My work is personal, relational and collaborative.
Hello! I'm a neurodiversity-affirming psychologist and love working with people who seek to discover more about themselves. I'm lucky to be part of a moment of realisation, of clarity and understanding - when everything finally makes sense! I provide ADHD and Autism assessments for Adults via Telehealth, and I also provide Therapy for Adolescents (16+) and Adults experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD support and sensory and learning differences. After hour appointments are available after hours, and I have appointments available in the next 1-2 weeks. My work is personal, relational and collaborative.
![Photo of Ayna Hennessy, MA, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04d8cfe3-c814-43af-89d8-733d5f5bcbfb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am now treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & Autism & its many comorbidities. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am now treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & Autism & its many comorbidities. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
![Photo of Arzu Aksu Chapman, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e9f9ed3-6892-4c99-a1d6-9477f3947869/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tailored strategies for ADHD and Autism empower individuals, while couples benefit from a nuanced understanding of neurodivergent dynamics and LGBTQ+ relationship nuances.
You, seeking understanding and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences. In couples, I welcome those facing unique dynamics, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ pairs. Your issues may vary, but the core need is universal: a safe space to explore challenges, cultivate understanding, and forge a path towards fulfillment. As a passionate therapist specializing in neurodiversity and couples therapy, my approach transcends conventional methods. Let's embark on a journey where acceptance and growth intersect.
Tailored strategies for ADHD and Autism empower individuals, while couples benefit from a nuanced understanding of neurodivergent dynamics and LGBTQ+ relationship nuances.
You, seeking understanding and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences. In couples, I welcome those facing unique dynamics, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ pairs. Your issues may vary, but the core need is universal: a safe space to explore challenges, cultivate understanding, and forge a path towards fulfillment. As a passionate therapist specializing in neurodiversity and couples therapy, my approach transcends conventional methods. Let's embark on a journey where acceptance and growth intersect.
![Photo of Anne-Maree Armstrong - Art Therapy Creates, AThR, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/501c9d13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience working and supporting children, young people and adults with Mood Disorders and with children on the Aspergers Autism spectrum.
I am an Art Therapist who is committed to support the development of my clients, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Art therapy creates a visual language of communication and personal expression as an alternative to 'talk only' therapy, when words or feelings are hard to express. My person-centred and psychodynamic approach to therapy is also informed by IFS and Mindfulness practice. I am a creative and thoughtful individual who works in a collaborative and compassionate manner with children, young people and adults when their emotions, thinking and behaviour is out of balance.
I have extensive experience working and supporting children, young people and adults with Mood Disorders and with children on the Aspergers Autism spectrum.
I am an Art Therapist who is committed to support the development of my clients, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Art therapy creates a visual language of communication and personal expression as an alternative to 'talk only' therapy, when words or feelings are hard to express. My person-centred and psychodynamic approach to therapy is also informed by IFS and Mindfulness practice. I am a creative and thoughtful individual who works in a collaborative and compassionate manner with children, young people and adults when their emotions, thinking and behaviour is out of balance.
See more therapy options for Erskineville
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Erskineville
- Alexandria
- Annandale
- Camperdown
- Enmore
- Glebe
- Marrickville
- Newtown
- Petersham
- Redfern
- Stanmore
- Surry Hills
- Ultimo
Autism Counsellors
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.