Autism Counselling in Summer Hill, NSW

Photo of Linda Harrison, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Linda Harrison
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Summer Hill, NSW 2130  (Online Only)
NOTE: My books have re-opened and I have a few spots available. Description: Are you feeling low, anxious, sad, burnt out or struggling to concentrate and focus? I specialise in Adult ADHD, gender/sexual identity, depression, anxiety, hormones/ menopause and stresses of life, work and relationships. I offer telehealth therapy to clients in rural, regional and metro areas. I believe that a positive relationship is key to change for clients. Importantly, therapy should be engaging and even enjoyable! I trust that with the right strategies, everyone can thrive, and it's my privilege to help them on their path to a more contented life.
NOTE: My books have re-opened and I have a few spots available. Description: Are you feeling low, anxious, sad, burnt out or struggling to concentrate and focus? I specialise in Adult ADHD, gender/sexual identity, depression, anxiety, hormones/ menopause and stresses of life, work and relationships. I offer telehealth therapy to clients in rural, regional and metro areas. I believe that a positive relationship is key to change for clients. Importantly, therapy should be engaging and even enjoyable! I trust that with the right strategies, everyone can thrive, and it's my privilege to help them on their path to a more contented life.
(02) 8503 8915 View (02) 8503 8915
Photo of Tegan Webb, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tegan Webb
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I provide psychological intervention to young people (12+) and adults (18+), with a focus on developing insight into your current life difficulties (eg anxiety, depression, issues connecting with people), considering how you would like your life to be, and beginning to take actions toward that desired life. I utilise Schema Therapy, with elements from a range of other therapy models (eg ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT) where needed, particularly when assisting people to develop new skills.
I provide psychological intervention to young people (12+) and adults (18+), with a focus on developing insight into your current life difficulties (eg anxiety, depression, issues connecting with people), considering how you would like your life to be, and beginning to take actions toward that desired life. I utilise Schema Therapy, with elements from a range of other therapy models (eg ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT) where needed, particularly when assisting people to develop new skills.
(02) 8503 8260 View (02) 8503 8260
Photo of Tim Bullivant, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Tim Bullivant
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
My clinical practice focuses on children, adolescents and young adults. I have experience treating a wide range of presentations.. I would suit clients seeking an affable and approachable clinical psychologist. I use an attachment framework throughout my work, helping clients to understand interpersonal patterns and to develop strong and protective relationships. I have specific interests in treating eating disorders and trauma, and supporting neurodivergent clients using a neuroaffirming approach.
My clinical practice focuses on children, adolescents and young adults. I have experience treating a wide range of presentations.. I would suit clients seeking an affable and approachable clinical psychologist. I use an attachment framework throughout my work, helping clients to understand interpersonal patterns and to develop strong and protective relationships. I have specific interests in treating eating disorders and trauma, and supporting neurodivergent clients using a neuroaffirming approach.
(02) 9100 0279 View (02) 9100 0279
Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodivergent, transgender, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Together, we can unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodivergent, transgender, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Together, we can unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
(02) 8000 1501 View (02) 8000 1501

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura Jones, MC, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Laura Jones
Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Earlwood, NSW 2206  (Online Only)
I have extensive professional and personal experience with Neurodiversity (including ADHD and Autism), Domestic and Family Violence, Trauma & PTSD, Grief and loss, Depression and Suicidal Ideation. Our sessions will be focused on you; your goals, your strengths and what you are hoping to achieve. No one knows your story better than you do, and my aim is to provide a safe environment where you feel heard and validated.
I have extensive professional and personal experience with Neurodiversity (including ADHD and Autism), Domestic and Family Violence, Trauma & PTSD, Grief and loss, Depression and Suicidal Ideation. Our sessions will be focused on you; your goals, your strengths and what you are hoping to achieve. No one knows your story better than you do, and my aim is to provide a safe environment where you feel heard and validated.
(02) 8599 7286 View (02) 8599 7286
Photo of Anita S, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Anita S
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Burwood, NSW 2134
Anita is a registered psychologist with extensive experience providing psychological assessment and interventions to children, adolescents, and adults. Anita’s specific interests include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions and adjustment difficulties, eating and body image concerns, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Global Developmental Delay and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She also has a special interest in providing therapeutic interventions for clients who have experienced trauma such as abuse, neglect, and domestic violence.
Anita is a registered psychologist with extensive experience providing psychological assessment and interventions to children, adolescents, and adults. Anita’s specific interests include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions and adjustment difficulties, eating and body image concerns, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Global Developmental Delay and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She also has a special interest in providing therapeutic interventions for clients who have experienced trauma such as abuse, neglect, and domestic violence.
(02) 8105 6470 View (02) 8105 6470
Photo of Anne-Maree Armstrong - Art Therapy Creates, AThR, Counsellor
Art Therapy Creates
Counsellor, AThR
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, NSW 2044
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.
(02) 8069 5430 View (02) 8069 5430
Photo of David Hawkins, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
David Hawkins
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burwood, NSW 2134
David offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity, specific learning disorder (including dyslexia and dyscalculia) and intellectual disability.
David Hawkins is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. David has worked in a variety of settings including public and private mental health services, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and large school systems. David's training encompasses a wide array of therapies, from the conversational model and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) to dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and short-term psychodynamic approaches.
David offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity, specific learning disorder (including dyslexia and dyscalculia) and intellectual disability.
David Hawkins is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. David has worked in a variety of settings including public and private mental health services, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and large school systems. David's training encompasses a wide array of therapies, from the conversational model and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) to dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and short-term psychodynamic approaches.
(02) 9538 7437 View (02) 9538 7437
Photo of Arzu Aksu Chapman, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Arzu Aksu Chapman
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
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.
(02) 8403 1928 View (02) 8403 1928
Photo of Nicolle Griffin, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicolle Griffin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045  (Online Only)
What is the neurodiversity-affirming approach? The understanding that ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and other neurodivergence are natural differences in human development.
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.
What is the neurodiversity-affirming approach? The understanding that ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and other neurodivergence are natural differences in human development.
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.
(02) 9100 0205 View (02) 9100 0205
Photo of Karen Gould, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Karen Gould
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
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.
(02) 9100 0727 View (02) 9100 0727
Photo of Hamid Reza Dadgostar - HD Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
HD Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glebe, NSW 2037
HD psychologists have been serving all communities and individuals for the last 20 years. We focus on ADHD and Autism (including assessments), Asperger, Depression, Anxiety, Children and Adolescent psychology, Stress and Pain management etc. We provide fluent English, Chinese, French and Farsi services. We offer psychological assessment reports such as but not limited to: reports to educational institutions, immigration, expert witness psychological assessment reports for courts. We have immediate availabilities to help you in all situations.
HD psychologists have been serving all communities and individuals for the last 20 years. We focus on ADHD and Autism (including assessments), Asperger, Depression, Anxiety, Children and Adolescent psychology, Stress and Pain management etc. We provide fluent English, Chinese, French and Farsi services. We offer psychological assessment reports such as but not limited to: reports to educational institutions, immigration, expert witness psychological assessment reports for courts. We have immediate availabilities to help you in all situations.
(02) 9158 6085 View (02) 9158 6085
Photo of Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
There are a few areas of focus that I love supporting clients with; 1). The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare. 2). Everyday client concerns like managing anxiety, low mood, or relationship challenges. 3). Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout symptoms or demanding standards associated with their careers. 4). Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
There are a few areas of focus that I love supporting clients with; 1). The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare. 2). Everyday client concerns like managing anxiety, low mood, or relationship challenges. 3). Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout symptoms or demanding standards associated with their careers. 4). Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
(03) 5905 7089 View (03) 5905 7089
Photo of Broady Robertson, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Broady Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
In my practice, I address a wide range of concerns including, gender identity, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues, addiction, suicidality, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma/abuse.
Hi, I'm Broady (he/him), an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTIQA+ community. With a personal background as a queer and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, understanding firsthand how stigma and discrimination can adversely affect mental health. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and sexuality and gender affirming care, ensuring a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment where everyone is respected for their individuality and encouraged to be themselves.
In my practice, I address a wide range of concerns including, gender identity, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues, addiction, suicidality, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma/abuse.
Hi, I'm Broady (he/him), an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTIQA+ community. With a personal background as a queer and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, understanding firsthand how stigma and discrimination can adversely affect mental health. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and sexuality and gender affirming care, ensuring a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment where everyone is respected for their individuality and encouraged to be themselves.
(03) 7003 2814 View (03) 7003 2814
Photo of James Morandini - King Street Psychology Clinic, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
King Street Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
We provide clinical sexology services for individuals struggling with sexual dysfunction, sexuality services for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating shame, internalised homophobia and coming out, psychometric testing for ADHD, Autism, and other disorders, as well as offering treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and much more.
King Street Psychology Clinic provides a safe space for individuals to explore issues relating to their gender, sexuality and general mental health concerns. We are a team of over 15 clinical psychologists, psychologists, clinical neuropsychologists, speech pathologists, and psychiatrists, providing clinical assessment and evidence-based therapies for adults, adolescents, children, and families in the Inner-West of Sydney.
We provide clinical sexology services for individuals struggling with sexual dysfunction, sexuality services for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating shame, internalised homophobia and coming out, psychometric testing for ADHD, Autism, and other disorders, as well as offering treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and much more.
King Street Psychology Clinic provides a safe space for individuals to explore issues relating to their gender, sexuality and general mental health concerns. We are a team of over 15 clinical psychologists, psychologists, clinical neuropsychologists, speech pathologists, and psychiatrists, providing clinical assessment and evidence-based therapies for adults, adolescents, children, and families in the Inner-West of Sydney.
(02) 9158 6282 View (02) 9158 6282
Photo of Kate Evans, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Kate Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
My clinical experience is in managing a wide range of psychological problems in adults, adolescents and parents looking for support with anxiety, stress, low mood and depression, personal development, managing perfectionism and procrastination, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem, and the challenges related to ADHD and Autism.
I am mindful of creating a safe, non-judgemental environment as a clinical psychologist who draws upon evidence based therapies to empower my clients to build self-awareness and improve their quality of life. I support clients in processing their emotions, developing a better understanding of who they are and how best to break free from negative life patterns that have exacerbated their psychological challenges. I also have extensive experience in parenting and child behaviour concerns. I work collaboratively with parents to identify and address child behaviour and emotional needs to help your child and manage your own wellbeing.
My clinical experience is in managing a wide range of psychological problems in adults, adolescents and parents looking for support with anxiety, stress, low mood and depression, personal development, managing perfectionism and procrastination, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem, and the challenges related to ADHD and Autism.
I am mindful of creating a safe, non-judgemental environment as a clinical psychologist who draws upon evidence based therapies to empower my clients to build self-awareness and improve their quality of life. I support clients in processing their emotions, developing a better understanding of who they are and how best to break free from negative life patterns that have exacerbated their psychological challenges. I also have extensive experience in parenting and child behaviour concerns. I work collaboratively with parents to identify and address child behaviour and emotional needs to help your child and manage your own wellbeing.
View
Photo of Simran Agarwal - Inner Transformations Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Inner Transformations Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Campsie, NSW 2194
I am Simran, a Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Hons). With over seven years of experience working with children and adults across the lifespan, I have a special interest in Autism and Intellectual Disability and provide gold standard diagnostic assessments and evidenced based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults with co-occurring mental health concerns. I am passionate about early intervention in mental health and have a particular interest in behaviour management and parenting strategies for children under 12.
I am Simran, a Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Hons). With over seven years of experience working with children and adults across the lifespan, I have a special interest in Autism and Intellectual Disability and provide gold standard diagnostic assessments and evidenced based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults with co-occurring mental health concerns. I am passionate about early intervention in mental health and have a particular interest in behaviour management and parenting strategies for children under 12.
(02) 8105 5015 View (02) 8105 5015
Photo of Emily Radford, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emily Radford
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049  (Online Only)
Hiya! My name is Emily, and my pronouns are they/them. I am a queer, neurodivergent, and non-binary Registered Psychologist. I work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. My priority is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment. I work with clients with a broad array of presentations, including ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/pain/fatigue, interpersonal conflict, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, PDA, and more. I prioritise the therapeutic relationship and ensure I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs and goals (irrespective of neurotypical standards).
Hiya! My name is Emily, and my pronouns are they/them. I am a queer, neurodivergent, and non-binary Registered Psychologist. I work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. My priority is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment. I work with clients with a broad array of presentations, including ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/pain/fatigue, interpersonal conflict, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, PDA, and more. I prioritise the therapeutic relationship and ensure I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs and goals (irrespective of neurotypical standards).
View
Photo of Chrissy Antonopoulos (Online Telehealth), PsyBA General, Psychologist
Chrissy Antonopoulos (Online Telehealth)
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, intellectual and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people of all ages and am currently only offering Telehealth services.
I am a Registered Psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, intellectual and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people of all ages and am currently only offering Telehealth services.
(02) 9053 4329 View (02) 9053 4329
Photo of Rachel Richardson, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rachel Richardson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canterbury, NSW 2193
I have worked with children, adolescents and families for over 10 years across parenting residential care, child protection, outreach and education settings. ​ In private practice, I work with various neurotypes and mental health presentations including anxiety, depression, OCD, and emotion dysregulation. I support neurodivergent ( Autism and ADHD) children and adolescents to feel empowered in their neurotype and enhance awareness of their individual social, emotional and communication preference.
I have worked with children, adolescents and families for over 10 years across parenting residential care, child protection, outreach and education settings. ​ In private practice, I work with various neurotypes and mental health presentations including anxiety, depression, OCD, and emotion dysregulation. I support neurodivergent ( Autism and ADHD) children and adolescents to feel empowered in their neurotype and enhance awareness of their individual social, emotional and communication preference.
(02) 9100 0360 View (02) 9100 0360

See more therapy options for Summer Hill

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.