Autism Therapists in Aldergrove, BC

Photo of Dominika Nelly Szymanska - McDonald, MA, CCC, BCaBA
Dominika Nelly Szymanska - McDonald
MA, CCC, BCaBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldergrove, BC V4W
For over 24 years, Dominika has provided behavior treatment to children, teens, and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, or other developmental disabilities. Currently, Dominika’s focus lies in guiding teens and young adults through their major life transitions, and helping them navigate their peer and family relations, academic pursuits, career goals and existential challenges. In addition, Dominika provides support to individuals and families dealing with depression, grief, immigration issues and existential crises. She utilizes her clinical experience to provide solution-focused treatment.
For over 24 years, Dominika has provided behavior treatment to children, teens, and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, or other developmental disabilities. Currently, Dominika’s focus lies in guiding teens and young adults through their major life transitions, and helping them navigate their peer and family relations, academic pursuits, career goals and existential challenges. In addition, Dominika provides support to individuals and families dealing with depression, grief, immigration issues and existential crises. She utilizes her clinical experience to provide solution-focused treatment.
(709) 703-8733 View (709) 703-8733
Photo of Manmeet Chhina, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Manmeet Chhina
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldergrove, BC V4W
I have devoted my counselling journey to work in a variety of professional backgrounds, including non-profit organizations, a women’s sexual health clinic, crisis lines, and a Child and Youth Mental Health clinic. Additionally, I have served as a mediator and a mentor for high-risk youth at the Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association. These experiences have equipped me to offer valuable support to clients confronting a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, navigating the unique complexities of growing up with immigrant parents who have a different cultural mindset, life transitions, and more.
I have devoted my counselling journey to work in a variety of professional backgrounds, including non-profit organizations, a women’s sexual health clinic, crisis lines, and a Child and Youth Mental Health clinic. Additionally, I have served as a mediator and a mentor for high-risk youth at the Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association. These experiences have equipped me to offer valuable support to clients confronting a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, navigating the unique complexities of growing up with immigrant parents who have a different cultural mindset, life transitions, and more.
(613) 707-3527 View (613) 707-3527
Photo of Cassandra Hildebrand - Luma Vita Counselling Inc, MA, Counsellor
Luma Vita Counselling Inc
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Aldergrove, BC V4W
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or low self-esteem? Are you going through a major life transition? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Or do you seek support for sexual health and wellness? At Luma Vita Counselling we offer a custom approach for each of our clients. We start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or low self-esteem? Are you going through a major life transition? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Or do you seek support for sexual health and wellness? At Luma Vita Counselling we offer a custom approach for each of our clients. We start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule.
(587) 848-8425 View (587) 848-8425
Photo of Amber Tilitzky, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Tilitzky
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldergrove, BC V4W
Everyone comes to counselling with their unique life experience and circumstances. Maybe there is something specific you would like to work on, maybe there is a general feeling of the need for change, and maybe you are just curious about counselling. My wish is to walk alongside you as we explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to better understand you and your situation. Together, we create an environment where you feel safe to be authentically you, gain deeper self understanding, and find a path that leads to your counselling goals.
Everyone comes to counselling with their unique life experience and circumstances. Maybe there is something specific you would like to work on, maybe there is a general feeling of the need for change, and maybe you are just curious about counselling. My wish is to walk alongside you as we explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to better understand you and your situation. Together, we create an environment where you feel safe to be authentically you, gain deeper self understanding, and find a path that leads to your counselling goals.
(647) 492-4645 View (647) 492-4645
Photo of Deanna Dumont Van Woudenberg, BA, BEd, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Deanna Dumont Van Woudenberg
Counsellor, BA, BEd, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldergrove, BC V4W
Do you feel a bit wobbly, worried, stressed out, or stuck in repeating patterns that aren’t working for you anymore? Maybe you’re having a tough time navigating through anxiety, depression, or complicated personal relationships. Perhaps you’d like to get better at communicating with the ones in your life that matter the most. You could also be wondering why painful memories from long ago keep popping up and you wonder if there’s a way to make them stop. Facing all of this alone can feel overwhelming, but real healing and change can come when you connect with someone you trust and feel fully safe with.
Do you feel a bit wobbly, worried, stressed out, or stuck in repeating patterns that aren’t working for you anymore? Maybe you’re having a tough time navigating through anxiety, depression, or complicated personal relationships. Perhaps you’d like to get better at communicating with the ones in your life that matter the most. You could also be wondering why painful memories from long ago keep popping up and you wonder if there’s a way to make them stop. Facing all of this alone can feel overwhelming, but real healing and change can come when you connect with someone you trust and feel fully safe with.
(506) 308-1889 View (506) 308-1889
Photo of Hailey Hughes, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Hailey Hughes
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldergrove, BC V4W
Have you been looking for a therapist who is down to earth and has the broad experience to understand all the things you are juggling day to day? Are your relationships suffering and you just can't find the time or the right words to set things back on course. Our world has become so fast paced and with so many expectations to be your best self. Sometimes it can feel like a lot. It can get overwhelming very quickly. Sometimes there needs to be a safe space to unload that, process your own goals and repair or strengthen your most valued relationships.
Have you been looking for a therapist who is down to earth and has the broad experience to understand all the things you are juggling day to day? Are your relationships suffering and you just can't find the time or the right words to set things back on course. Our world has become so fast paced and with so many expectations to be your best self. Sometimes it can feel like a lot. It can get overwhelming very quickly. Sometimes there needs to be a safe space to unload that, process your own goals and repair or strengthen your most valued relationships.
(365) 659-2811 View (365) 659-2811

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sophie Thacker, MACP, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Sophie Thacker
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2T  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with trauma/PTSD and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism).
If you're a first responder, frontline worker, and/or someone who has ADHD or Autism (or suspects it), you deserve understanding and flexible support. I offer a safe, empathetic space where your unique experiences are respected. My approach is tailored to fit your needs and goals, and I am here to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve balance. It can be challenging to reflect and navigate through the lifestyle and culture that comes from being a first responder or frontline worker and the experiences of someone with ADHD and Autism - that's why you deserve to connect with someone who understands it!
I specialize in working with trauma/PTSD and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism).
If you're a first responder, frontline worker, and/or someone who has ADHD or Autism (or suspects it), you deserve understanding and flexible support. I offer a safe, empathetic space where your unique experiences are respected. My approach is tailored to fit your needs and goals, and I am here to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve balance. It can be challenging to reflect and navigate through the lifestyle and culture that comes from being a first responder or frontline worker and the experiences of someone with ADHD and Autism - that's why you deserve to connect with someone who understands it!
(249) 488-2965 View (249) 488-2965
Photo of Lisa Moore - Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Lisa's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
Lisa's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Rebecca Lee Farnell, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Rebecca Lee Farnell
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
With 20 years experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families, I am passionate and skilled in working with this highly unique population.
I love people, and I feel most alive when I am supporting others to reach their fullest potential. I have completed my Masters in Counselling Psychology at Adler University and hold the designation of a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I work from a Person-Centered perspective, honoring the inherent worth of each client. I believe that the client is the expert of their own experience and I desire to understand the way of being of each of my clients.
With 20 years experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families, I am passionate and skilled in working with this highly unique population.
I love people, and I feel most alive when I am supporting others to reach their fullest potential. I have completed my Masters in Counselling Psychology at Adler University and hold the designation of a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I work from a Person-Centered perspective, honoring the inherent worth of each client. I believe that the client is the expert of their own experience and I desire to understand the way of being of each of my clients.
(778) 901-2086 View (778) 901-2086
Photo of Doug West, MA, DVATI, RCC-ACS, Counsellor
Doug West
Counsellor, MA, DVATI, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V2Z
I specialize in supporting people with "neurodiverse" challenges - anxiety, ADHD, and autism, by enhancing emotional regulation through combining neurofeedback training with counselling.
Are you, or your son or daughter struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or a combination of all of the above? Life is full of challenges, and it is important to have the ability to be flexible and resilient with life’s obstacles so they don’t stop or slow us down from meeting our goals. As your counsellor, I understand life’s stresses and how best to meet them. My objective is to increase your skills and abilities to roll with life’s challenges, increasing your confidence and overall happiness.
I specialize in supporting people with "neurodiverse" challenges - anxiety, ADHD, and autism, by enhancing emotional regulation through combining neurofeedback training with counselling.
Are you, or your son or daughter struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or a combination of all of the above? Life is full of challenges, and it is important to have the ability to be flexible and resilient with life’s obstacles so they don’t stop or slow us down from meeting our goals. As your counsellor, I understand life’s stresses and how best to meet them. My objective is to increase your skills and abilities to roll with life’s challenges, increasing your confidence and overall happiness.
(778) 767-0812 View (778) 767-0812
Photo of Janel Derrick, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Janel Derrick
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V2Y
My name is Janel Derrick and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #12852) with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. I’ve been working in the field of psychology in one form or another for over 20 years. Initially I started as frontline support working with children on the autism spectrum from which I grew into a Behavioural Consultant working with this same population. Now, and for the past several years, I have added the role of clinical counsellor working with individuals, couples, groups, and families who are navigating mental health challenges of many kinds.
My name is Janel Derrick and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #12852) with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. I’ve been working in the field of psychology in one form or another for over 20 years. Initially I started as frontline support working with children on the autism spectrum from which I grew into a Behavioural Consultant working with this same population. Now, and for the past several years, I have added the role of clinical counsellor working with individuals, couples, groups, and families who are navigating mental health challenges of many kinds.
(604) 227-1821 View (604) 227-1821
Photo of Tracey Banks, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tracey Banks
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T
I can share with you that even before my training as a social worker, I knew working with children, young people, and families of all designs, brought me joy. Whether this joy came from my early days as a camp counsellor, as a recreation support worker, or from my paid social work employment in supporting families, or working with young people struggling with substance use, or in supporting young people in their challenges with autism, my practice focus has always been in working alongside others to feel less alone, to feel heard, to feel seen.
I can share with you that even before my training as a social worker, I knew working with children, young people, and families of all designs, brought me joy. Whether this joy came from my early days as a camp counsellor, as a recreation support worker, or from my paid social work employment in supporting families, or working with young people struggling with substance use, or in supporting young people in their challenges with autism, my practice focus has always been in working alongside others to feel less alone, to feel heard, to feel seen.
(778) 767-2172 View (778) 767-2172
Photo of Josette Marie Steel, MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Josette Marie Steel
MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A  (Online Only)
I'm really glad you're here. Over the past 30 years I've supported a wide variety of people on their healing journey. Together, we have worked through issues around trauma (current, historic & generational) PTSD, addiction & recovery (including alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gaming, porn, shopping, relationships & gambling), sexuality & sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also supported people who live differently-abled lives, including those living on the autism spectrum and with Downs Syndrome. Please check out my website &/or call/text/email, to get to know me better.
I'm really glad you're here. Over the past 30 years I've supported a wide variety of people on their healing journey. Together, we have worked through issues around trauma (current, historic & generational) PTSD, addiction & recovery (including alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gaming, porn, shopping, relationships & gambling), sexuality & sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also supported people who live differently-abled lives, including those living on the autism spectrum and with Downs Syndrome. Please check out my website &/or call/text/email, to get to know me better.
(778) 960-1899 View (778) 960-1899
Photo of Tracy Wilkins, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Tracy Wilkins
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
I am dedicated to guiding youth, adults, couples, and families towards harmony and a better quality of life. Drawing from 23 years of expertise, I have supported numerous individuals and couples through challenging life transitions including divorce, addiction, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and anxiety. My specialized focus extends to providing compassionate assistance to families and individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Incorporating proven methods such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT into my therapy approach I create an individualized approach.
I am dedicated to guiding youth, adults, couples, and families towards harmony and a better quality of life. Drawing from 23 years of expertise, I have supported numerous individuals and couples through challenging life transitions including divorce, addiction, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and anxiety. My specialized focus extends to providing compassionate assistance to families and individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Incorporating proven methods such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT into my therapy approach I create an individualized approach.
(604) 670-7125 View (604) 670-7125
Photo of Heather Burke, PhD, Psychologist
Heather Burke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mission, BC V2V
I am a Registered Psychologist in BC (1691) and I have twenty years experience. I have an office in Mission, BC. I provide compassionate and effective therapy for issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, addictions, self harm, grief, abuse, health and fitness, aging, life transitions, caregiver stress, dementia, special needs (such as FASD, autism spectrum, etc.). Counselling primarily involves developing a trusting relationship, understanding/exploring what challenges you face, and together, figuring out which approach works best for you and your concerns in effecting positive change in your life.
I am a Registered Psychologist in BC (1691) and I have twenty years experience. I have an office in Mission, BC. I provide compassionate and effective therapy for issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, addictions, self harm, grief, abuse, health and fitness, aging, life transitions, caregiver stress, dementia, special needs (such as FASD, autism spectrum, etc.). Counselling primarily involves developing a trusting relationship, understanding/exploring what challenges you face, and together, figuring out which approach works best for you and your concerns in effecting positive change in your life.
(778) 200-2394 View (778) 200-2394
Photo of Haide A Wall Giesbrecht, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Haide A Wall Giesbrecht
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2S
I am able to help with many issues including personal growth and understanding, anxiety, depression, living with a disabiliy, autism in relationship, grief and loss, partner abuse and control, and dealing with difficult relationships.
Do you need a safe place to talk about the stresses of life? Do you feel overwhelmed and uncertain about where to turn? I love to be an encourager and to walk alongside people through life's challenges. The values that most influence my sessions are authenticity, safety, and emotional health. I seek to be authentically me both in counselling sessions and in the community. It is important to me that my clients feel safe, secure and valued. I want to help clients find ways to care for themselves and grow to become the people they desire to be. I care deeply about and enjoy seeing positive change in my clients.
I am able to help with many issues including personal growth and understanding, anxiety, depression, living with a disabiliy, autism in relationship, grief and loss, partner abuse and control, and dealing with difficult relationships.
Do you need a safe place to talk about the stresses of life? Do you feel overwhelmed and uncertain about where to turn? I love to be an encourager and to walk alongside people through life's challenges. The values that most influence my sessions are authenticity, safety, and emotional health. I seek to be authentically me both in counselling sessions and in the community. It is important to me that my clients feel safe, secure and valued. I want to help clients find ways to care for themselves and grow to become the people they desire to be. I care deeply about and enjoy seeing positive change in my clients.
(226) 909-7084 View (226) 909-7084
Photo of Collins Jammal, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Collins Jammal
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
I specialize in working with tweens, teens and adults coping with Life transitions, Family conflict, Stress, Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Trauma.
Life comes with a lot of painful obstacles that sometimes make one doubt their capacity to push through. Are you struggling through a difficult time and are starting to feel hopeless about life? Does it feel like you have no control over your life and have no idea on what to do?
I specialize in working with tweens, teens and adults coping with Life transitions, Family conflict, Stress, Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Trauma.
Life comes with a lot of painful obstacles that sometimes make one doubt their capacity to push through. Are you struggling through a difficult time and are starting to feel hopeless about life? Does it feel like you have no control over your life and have no idea on what to do?
(705) 998-3746 View (705) 998-3746
Photo of Neeti Sachdeva - Neeti Sachdeva Psychological , Ph.D, C.Psych., PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Neeti Sachdeva Psychological , Ph.D, C.Psych.
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Testing and Evaluation, Anxiety, Child or Adolescent Issues Gifted testing; ADHD, Academic Underachievement, Autism Behavioral Issues; Coping Skills; Developmental Disorders; Self esteem issues; Family Conflict; Learning Disabilities; Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD); Parenting; Peer Relationship; Bullying.
STILL ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS I am a doctor of developmental psychology specializing in psycho-educational assessments. Areas of my specialty include learning disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, gifted, developmental disabilities and social emotional disorders. My university degree includes a master's degree and a doctorate degree in developmental psychology. College of Psychologists of Ontario and College of British Columbia .In my case conceptualization and interventions, I implement an integrated and systemic approach with a focus on client-centered and cognitivebehavioural approaches.
Testing and Evaluation, Anxiety, Child or Adolescent Issues Gifted testing; ADHD, Academic Underachievement, Autism Behavioral Issues; Coping Skills; Developmental Disorders; Self esteem issues; Family Conflict; Learning Disabilities; Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD); Parenting; Peer Relationship; Bullying.
STILL ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS I am a doctor of developmental psychology specializing in psycho-educational assessments. Areas of my specialty include learning disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, gifted, developmental disabilities and social emotional disorders. My university degree includes a master's degree and a doctorate degree in developmental psychology. College of Psychologists of Ontario and College of British Columbia .In my case conceptualization and interventions, I implement an integrated and systemic approach with a focus on client-centered and cognitivebehavioural approaches.
(613) 790-0750 View (613) 790-0750
Photo of Jashmesh Sidhu - Wellness North Counselling, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Wellness North Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
I bring over 10 years of clinical expertise to my work, supporting those struggling with anxiety, autism, learning difficulties, depression, overwhelm, trauma, being challenged due to conflict, bullying, ADHD, OCD & Anger Issues.
Do you struggle with Anxiety, ADHD, OCD or depression? Do you get overwhelmed easily? Have challenges with your child/ youth's behaviour? I understand South Asian family dynamics and interpersonal difficulties. As a BIPOC professional with more than a decade experience in the field, I help you find peace and solutions. I support families and children/youth using CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, play therapy, EFT and Family systems. I am trained to help neuro-diverse folks and with couples I use Gottman method to make their marriage fulfilling. I am also an approved clinical supervisor. After therapy with me, people leave feeling hopeful.
I bring over 10 years of clinical expertise to my work, supporting those struggling with anxiety, autism, learning difficulties, depression, overwhelm, trauma, being challenged due to conflict, bullying, ADHD, OCD & Anger Issues.
Do you struggle with Anxiety, ADHD, OCD or depression? Do you get overwhelmed easily? Have challenges with your child/ youth's behaviour? I understand South Asian family dynamics and interpersonal difficulties. As a BIPOC professional with more than a decade experience in the field, I help you find peace and solutions. I support families and children/youth using CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, play therapy, EFT and Family systems. I am trained to help neuro-diverse folks and with couples I use Gottman method to make their marriage fulfilling. I am also an approved clinical supervisor. After therapy with me, people leave feeling hopeful.
(506) 501-9363 View (506) 501-9363
Photo of Tiana Soares, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Tiana Soares
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission, BC V2V
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I like to implement a client-centered approach whereby I take my years of experience and training to adjust a therapeutic approach to best suit each one of my clients. I have eight years of experience working with children and families with special needs, including children diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADD, FSD, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Pain Disorders, Neurodivergency, Brain Injuries, and Anxiety.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I like to implement a client-centered approach whereby I take my years of experience and training to adjust a therapeutic approach to best suit each one of my clients. I have eight years of experience working with children and families with special needs, including children diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADD, FSD, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Pain Disorders, Neurodivergency, Brain Injuries, and Anxiety.
(867) 794-0481 View (867) 794-0481

See more therapy options for Aldergrove

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.