Autism Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of Seraphim Mork, PhD, Psychologist
Seraphim Mork
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
I can diagnose Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder PTSD, Personality Disorders and so on.
Specialized Assessments: Do you require a psychological assessment to give you insight into you or your child’s psychological functioning and to provide you with information on how you or your child could be supported? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression or anxiety? Do you difficulty with learning, inattention or poor memory? I am a doctoral level psychologist and I provide neuropsychological, psychological/mental health and psychoeducational assessments to children, youth and adults.
I can diagnose Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder PTSD, Personality Disorders and so on.
Specialized Assessments: Do you require a psychological assessment to give you insight into you or your child’s psychological functioning and to provide you with information on how you or your child could be supported? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression or anxiety? Do you difficulty with learning, inattention or poor memory? I am a doctoral level psychologist and I provide neuropsychological, psychological/mental health and psychoeducational assessments to children, youth and adults.
(587) 417-6494 View (587) 417-6494
Photo of Gabrielle Heselton, MC, Psychologist
Gabrielle Heselton
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6H
I also provide neurodiveristy-affirming, narrative-based adult autism assessments.
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of intersecting identities, and particularly love working with women. Our culture downplays and undervalue women's health and emotional well-being, despite their important roles in our society! Women come to therapy with unique issues, experiences, and needs including stress and burnout, relationship challenges, caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, and trauma. These issues are often rooted in cultural and relational narratives that may not align with their values. Together we can evaluate these narratives and work toward a better understanding of identity and agency.
I also provide neurodiveristy-affirming, narrative-based adult autism assessments.
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of intersecting identities, and particularly love working with women. Our culture downplays and undervalue women's health and emotional well-being, despite their important roles in our society! Women come to therapy with unique issues, experiences, and needs including stress and burnout, relationship challenges, caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, and trauma. These issues are often rooted in cultural and relational narratives that may not align with their values. Together we can evaluate these narratives and work toward a better understanding of identity and agency.
(587) 715-0151 View (587) 715-0151
Photo of Douglas Nechio, Reg, Psych, Psychologist
Douglas Nechio
Psychologist, Reg, Psych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5E
Our assessment and counselling specialists are well versed in a variety of assessments such as Autism, ADHD, learning disability, behavioural, personality, and mental health assessments.
Our team at Psychological Outreach Services offers specialized psychological assessment and counselling services to school-aged children as well as adults. Besides registered psychologists, our team provides speech and language services as well as occupational therapy assessments. We are committed to helping our clients cope with life challenges and overcome a variety of socio-emotional, behavioural, and academic difficulties.
Our assessment and counselling specialists are well versed in a variety of assessments such as Autism, ADHD, learning disability, behavioural, personality, and mental health assessments.
Our team at Psychological Outreach Services offers specialized psychological assessment and counselling services to school-aged children as well as adults. Besides registered psychologists, our team provides speech and language services as well as occupational therapy assessments. We are committed to helping our clients cope with life challenges and overcome a variety of socio-emotional, behavioural, and academic difficulties.
(587) 415-0773 View (587) 415-0773
Photo of Amanda Montey, MEd, Psychologist
Amanda Montey
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Hey there! My name is Amanda (they/them), and I'm passionate about supporting neurodivergent and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life by drawing on my professional training and my lived experience as a non-binary and neurodivergent therapist. I provide individual counselling to kids, teens, and adults. With kids and teens, I love working with a wide variety of concerns including ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, and more. Additionally, I work with adults with ADHD and/or Autism to help address their experience with these conditions among other things affecting them.
Hey there! My name is Amanda (they/them), and I'm passionate about supporting neurodivergent and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life by drawing on my professional training and my lived experience as a non-binary and neurodivergent therapist. I provide individual counselling to kids, teens, and adults. With kids and teens, I love working with a wide variety of concerns including ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, and more. Additionally, I work with adults with ADHD and/or Autism to help address their experience with these conditions among other things affecting them.
(587) 850-2790 x26 View (587) 850-2790 x26
Photo of Lisa Curial, RPsych, Psychologist
Lisa Curial
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Services Lisa currently offers individuals include: Psychoeducational Assessments, ADHD Assessment, Autism Diagnosis, Learning Disability Diagnosis.
Lisa has worked with children of a wide range of differences and ages. She has extensive experience working with children with differences such as ASD, learning disabilities, behavioural difficulties, ADHD, ODD, gifted students and those with social/emotional difficulties. She has also worked with children who are non-verbal.
Services Lisa currently offers individuals include: Psychoeducational Assessments, ADHD Assessment, Autism Diagnosis, Learning Disability Diagnosis.
Lisa has worked with children of a wide range of differences and ages. She has extensive experience working with children with differences such as ASD, learning disabilities, behavioural difficulties, ADHD, ODD, gifted students and those with social/emotional difficulties. She has also worked with children who are non-verbal.
(825) 435-1417 View (825) 435-1417
Photo of Tracy Pham, MC, Psychologist
Tracy Pham
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in testing and evaluation and conduct mental health assessments, psychoeducational assessments, learning disability and giftedness assessments, differential diagnoses, as well as have specialized training in the diagnostic assessment for neurodevelopment disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
I have diverse and invaluable experiences when it comes to supporting individuals with a variety of presenting concerns and mental health challenges. I am open and keen to supporting clients in different areas and am most passionate about supporting clients with testing and evaluation, emotional regulation, self-esteem, stress management, sexuality, school/work-related challenges, life transitions. I have experience working with individuals who have symptoms of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders and provide a neuroaffirming lens. I would be honored to work with you and I hope to connect with you soon!
I specialize in testing and evaluation and conduct mental health assessments, psychoeducational assessments, learning disability and giftedness assessments, differential diagnoses, as well as have specialized training in the diagnostic assessment for neurodevelopment disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
I have diverse and invaluable experiences when it comes to supporting individuals with a variety of presenting concerns and mental health challenges. I am open and keen to supporting clients in different areas and am most passionate about supporting clients with testing and evaluation, emotional regulation, self-esteem, stress management, sexuality, school/work-related challenges, life transitions. I have experience working with individuals who have symptoms of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders and provide a neuroaffirming lens. I would be honored to work with you and I hope to connect with you soon!
(780) 690-2950 View (780) 690-2950
Photo of Amélie Rossignol, RTC, HHP, BSc, Counsellor
Amélie Rossignol
Counsellor, RTC, HHP, BSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6W  (Online Only)
Do you want to explore your differences? Perhaps you are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, etc.), gifted, 2slgbtqia+, intense, a parent of a high needs child, or different in some other way. Your challenges may include dealing with intense feelings, being over-critical of yourself, being easily overwhelmed by life, stress-related physical conditions, feeling alone, or a tendency to put your own needs last. I offer a safe and accepting space to explore who you really are, and what you need to survive and thrive in a world not designed for you.
Do you want to explore your differences? Perhaps you are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, etc.), gifted, 2slgbtqia+, intense, a parent of a high needs child, or different in some other way. Your challenges may include dealing with intense feelings, being over-critical of yourself, being easily overwhelmed by life, stress-related physical conditions, feeling alone, or a tendency to put your own needs last. I offer a safe and accepting space to explore who you really are, and what you need to survive and thrive in a world not designed for you.
(587) 848-3585 View (587) 848-3585
Photo of Tanya Wasielewski, DEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Tanya Wasielewski
Psychologist, DEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6W
I also have a special interest in supporting clients with Developmental Disabilities, including Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta. I have worked in private practice, public healthcare and educational settings in multiple countries. I have more than fifteen years of clinical experience working with diverse adults and youth.
I also have a special interest in supporting clients with Developmental Disabilities, including Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta. I have worked in private practice, public healthcare and educational settings in multiple countries. I have more than fifteen years of clinical experience working with diverse adults and youth.
(587) 849-0899 View (587) 849-0899
Photo of Roopa Belur, MSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Roopa Belur
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6W
My primary responsibilities include autism diagnostic assessments and IQ and achievement tests administration. My primary focus is working with children, adolescents, couples, and adults on the autism spectrum, ADHD, and other developmental disabilities. Other areas of focus include psychoeducation of the diagnosis to help tailor supports and strategies that would be adapted based on the individual's strengths, needs, and wellbeing. I view Autism as a different style of learning and understanding the world around them and use this framework to interpret and understand their challenges and work on interventions.
My primary responsibilities include autism diagnostic assessments and IQ and achievement tests administration. My primary focus is working with children, adolescents, couples, and adults on the autism spectrum, ADHD, and other developmental disabilities. Other areas of focus include psychoeducation of the diagnosis to help tailor supports and strategies that would be adapted based on the individual's strengths, needs, and wellbeing. I view Autism as a different style of learning and understanding the world around them and use this framework to interpret and understand their challenges and work on interventions.
(587) 801-0251 View (587) 801-0251
Photo of Michael Stolte, PhD, CCC, Psychologist
Michael Stolte
Psychologist, PhD, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5N
Waitlist for new clients
He is also the past Clinical Director for the Centre for Autism Services Alberta, providing leadership in multi-disciplinary autism supports.
Life can be complicated. Navigating neurodiversity, mental health, relational distress, psycho-legal issues, and other challenges can add to the stress. Using an integrated, respectful, culturally sensitive, and holistic model of mental health care, Dr. Stolte is able to draw from a wide background of experience and training to support your situation that requires psychological assessment or counselling support.
He is also the past Clinical Director for the Centre for Autism Services Alberta, providing leadership in multi-disciplinary autism supports.
Life can be complicated. Navigating neurodiversity, mental health, relational distress, psycho-legal issues, and other challenges can add to the stress. Using an integrated, respectful, culturally sensitive, and holistic model of mental health care, Dr. Stolte is able to draw from a wide background of experience and training to support your situation that requires psychological assessment or counselling support.
(780) 232-0308 View (780) 232-0308
Photo of Ellen Robertson - Tandem Psychology, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Tandem Psychology
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6C  (Online Only)
We offer assessment for Autism for children 2+.
We offer a range of psychology services to support children, parents, and families as a whole. Our approach supports the family and empowers parents as agents of change. We provide quality, evidence-based assessments and intervention informed by our background and experience in child development. We work together, with your family, to find solutions that fit and lead to long-lasting impact. We specialize in Autism assessment for children ages 2 and older.
We offer assessment for Autism for children 2+.
We offer a range of psychology services to support children, parents, and families as a whole. Our approach supports the family and empowers parents as agents of change. We provide quality, evidence-based assessments and intervention informed by our background and experience in child development. We work together, with your family, to find solutions that fit and lead to long-lasting impact. We specialize in Autism assessment for children ages 2 and older.
(825) 608-5412 View (825) 608-5412
Photo of Courtney Schulze - Northern Star Behaviour Services, M Ed, BCBA
Northern Star Behaviour Services
M Ed, BCBA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6W
Northern Star Behaviour Services is an agency supporting children with developmental disabilities and autism in the Edmonton and Northern Alberta regions. We believe that accessing the top recommended service, behavioural intervention, should not be a privilege based on your geography. Northern Star provides remote virtual intervention services and travels to regions such as Grand Prairie, Fort McMurray, Athabasca, Hinton, and many more providing in-home family consultation, school consultation, and professional development opportunities.
Northern Star Behaviour Services is an agency supporting children with developmental disabilities and autism in the Edmonton and Northern Alberta regions. We believe that accessing the top recommended service, behavioural intervention, should not be a privilege based on your geography. Northern Star provides remote virtual intervention services and travels to regions such as Grand Prairie, Fort McMurray, Athabasca, Hinton, and many more providing in-home family consultation, school consultation, and professional development opportunities.
(825) 250-3704 View (825) 250-3704
Photo of Shiva Mortazavi-Moghaddam, MPsych, Psychologist
Shiva Mortazavi-Moghaddam
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G
I am passionate about conducting assessments, including ADHD, psychoeducational and autism assessments.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am skilled in both counselling and assessments and an advocate of acceptance/self-acceptance, and believe in providing a non-judgmental environment. I specialize in working with a diverse population, including children, adolescents, adults, and families, with extensive experience working with women and couples. I am a certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and use a holistic approach towards mental health, also drawing from Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
I am passionate about conducting assessments, including ADHD, psychoeducational and autism assessments.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am skilled in both counselling and assessments and an advocate of acceptance/self-acceptance, and believe in providing a non-judgmental environment. I specialize in working with a diverse population, including children, adolescents, adults, and families, with extensive experience working with women and couples. I am a certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and use a holistic approach towards mental health, also drawing from Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
(587) 804-0219 View (587) 804-0219
Photo of Lori Sacrey, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Lori Sacrey
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to my Master of Counselling degree, I have a PhD in neuroscience, which provides me with a unique perspective to help those who are neurodivergent or experience brain-based conditions, such as Autism, and mood disorders, including anxiety and depression.
I am very passionate about helping people achieve their mental health goals. I have a special interest in helping those who are neurodivergent, caregivers of family members with chronic conditions, as well as those who experience anxiety or depression
In addition to my Master of Counselling degree, I have a PhD in neuroscience, which provides me with a unique perspective to help those who are neurodivergent or experience brain-based conditions, such as Autism, and mood disorders, including anxiety and depression.
I am very passionate about helping people achieve their mental health goals. I have a special interest in helping those who are neurodivergent, caregivers of family members with chronic conditions, as well as those who experience anxiety or depression
(587) 804-2675 View (587) 804-2675
Photo of Katherine McLachlan - Cohesion Psychology, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Cohesion Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
Perhaps you found resonance about neurodivergence. You're not alone in the confusion you're facing, suspecting that a diagnosis of autism or ADHD might explain your lifelong struggles. Seeking clarity is a powerful journey towards understanding your unique neurodivergent strengths and needs. Your quest for clarity is the first chapter in your empowering journey towards self-discovery and embracing your true potential.
Perhaps you found resonance about neurodivergence. You're not alone in the confusion you're facing, suspecting that a diagnosis of autism or ADHD might explain your lifelong struggles. Seeking clarity is a powerful journey towards understanding your unique neurodivergent strengths and needs. Your quest for clarity is the first chapter in your empowering journey towards self-discovery and embracing your true potential.
(587) 844-0991 View (587) 844-0991
Photo of Iain Dolan, MC, Psychologist
Iain Dolan
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J  (Online Only)
Looking for an adult autism assessment with a neurodivergent psychologist? Feeling dismissed by people who don’t understand medical trauma or how hard it is to stop masking? You have the right to feel accepted, heard, and believed—even during an assessment! I was “late-diagnosed” and understand how relieving a diagnosis can be after decades of feeling misunderstood and exhausted. My assessments are thorough and the options were entirely designed by autistic people, who I routinely work with to refine things. You can do the entire assessment from home and take the time you need. Do a FREE self-screen on my site here: www.ndpsych.com
Looking for an adult autism assessment with a neurodivergent psychologist? Feeling dismissed by people who don’t understand medical trauma or how hard it is to stop masking? You have the right to feel accepted, heard, and believed—even during an assessment! I was “late-diagnosed” and understand how relieving a diagnosis can be after decades of feeling misunderstood and exhausted. My assessments are thorough and the options were entirely designed by autistic people, who I routinely work with to refine things. You can do the entire assessment from home and take the time you need. Do a FREE self-screen on my site here: www.ndpsych.com
(403) 912-5924 View (403) 912-5924
Photo of Eric D. Burgess - Restless Minds Counselling, BA, MEd , ASDCS, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Restless Minds Counselling
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MEd , ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5J
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS).
My name is Eric Burgess and I hold an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist (P3225). I have 15+ years of experience providing counselling supports to children, youth and adults with a variety of presenting issues including: Depression, Anxiety, stress, at-risk behaviours, ADHD, Autism, school issues, trauma, 2SLBGTQ+, multicultural issues and Learning Disabilities. I am an approved service provider for Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (FSCD). I have a special interest in providing counselling services to NEURODIVERSE populations. I do not provide assessment services at this time.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS).
My name is Eric Burgess and I hold an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist (P3225). I have 15+ years of experience providing counselling supports to children, youth and adults with a variety of presenting issues including: Depression, Anxiety, stress, at-risk behaviours, ADHD, Autism, school issues, trauma, 2SLBGTQ+, multicultural issues and Learning Disabilities. I am an approved service provider for Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (FSCD). I have a special interest in providing counselling services to NEURODIVERSE populations. I do not provide assessment services at this time.
(587) 600-8929 View (587) 600-8929
Photo of Jennifer Ference-Belhomme - Azalea Child Psychology Services, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Azalea Child Psychology Services
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5A
Waitlist for new clients
In my private practice, I specialize in assessing various developmental challenges in children, adolescents, and in some cases, young adults. I have experience in assessing and diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Intellectual Disabilities, amongst other challenges that present in children/adolescents. I am well versed in doing psycho-educational assessments and can identify giftedness for school placement. I have experience providing therapy (online and in person) to children and youth struggling with various medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, Tourette's syndrome) and sleep challenges.
In my private practice, I specialize in assessing various developmental challenges in children, adolescents, and in some cases, young adults. I have experience in assessing and diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Intellectual Disabilities, amongst other challenges that present in children/adolescents. I am well versed in doing psycho-educational assessments and can identify giftedness for school placement. I have experience providing therapy (online and in person) to children and youth struggling with various medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, Tourette's syndrome) and sleep challenges.
(825) 807-5647 View (825) 807-5647
Photo of Krystal Zhang, MC, BEd, DipInEd, Counsellor
Krystal Zhang
Counsellor, MC, BEd, DipInEd
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is neurodiversity affirming and strength based. I’m passionate about supporting autism/autistic burnout, family struggles/divorce, attachment, school challenges, ADHD, trauma, and 2SLBGTQ+ individuals. I’m a neurodivergent counselor and a prior inclusive education teacher with years of experience supporting children, youth, and families. Counselling is collaborative and individualized for your unique goals, using your strengths to create a life story that is meaningful and authentic while acknowledging your current struggles.
My approach is neurodiversity affirming and strength based. I’m passionate about supporting autism/autistic burnout, family struggles/divorce, attachment, school challenges, ADHD, trauma, and 2SLBGTQ+ individuals. I’m a neurodivergent counselor and a prior inclusive education teacher with years of experience supporting children, youth, and families. Counselling is collaborative and individualized for your unique goals, using your strengths to create a life story that is meaningful and authentic while acknowledging your current struggles.
(587) 841-0449 View (587) 841-0449
Photo of Janine Groeneveld, MC, Psychologist
Janine Groeneveld
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
I am also able to complete psycho-educational and parenting assessments, including intelligence, achievement testing, full assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and behavioural assessments.
In my work, I have been able to support my clients through depression, anxiety, emotional struggles, and post traumatic stress. I thoroughly enjoy working with adolescents and adults through all life stages and situations. I work primarily from a client centered perspective, meaning I believe that all people, regardless of their circumstances, have the ability within themselves to heal if given the proper tools and guidance. Attachment drives my clinical work, and I believe that healing happens in relationship both internally and within external relationships. I am also trained in the EMDR modality and DBT.
I am also able to complete psycho-educational and parenting assessments, including intelligence, achievement testing, full assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and behavioural assessments.
In my work, I have been able to support my clients through depression, anxiety, emotional struggles, and post traumatic stress. I thoroughly enjoy working with adolescents and adults through all life stages and situations. I work primarily from a client centered perspective, meaning I believe that all people, regardless of their circumstances, have the ability within themselves to heal if given the proper tools and guidance. Attachment drives my clinical work, and I believe that healing happens in relationship both internally and within external relationships. I am also trained in the EMDR modality and DBT.
(587) 803-6251 View (587) 803-6251
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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.