Autism Therapists in Port Coquitlam, BC
I have substantial experience with clients from a wealth of diverse backgrounds and life difficulties. My areas of expertise include counselling for neurodiverse people, especially teenagers, youth, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as counselling people when facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, anger management, transition, and gender-related issues, social-emotional challenges.
I have substantial experience with clients from a wealth of diverse backgrounds and life difficulties. My areas of expertise include counselling for neurodiverse people, especially teenagers, youth, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as counselling people when facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, anger management, transition, and gender-related issues, social-emotional challenges.
Dorothy Hyslop & Associates Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C
In my counselling practice, I work with individuals and their families who have experienced trauma and live with grief, loss, anxiety and depression. Additionally I work with Individuals with significant issues stemming from PTSD, brain trauma and other catastrophic injuries. I also work with individuals with developmental challenges and autism who require support with acquiring life and social skills such as anger management, sexual safety and establishing positive social connections. I work with my clients to help build tools and strategies for managing their daily life as well developing positive coping mechanisms.
In my counselling practice, I work with individuals and their families who have experienced trauma and live with grief, loss, anxiety and depression. Additionally I work with Individuals with significant issues stemming from PTSD, brain trauma and other catastrophic injuries. I also work with individuals with developmental challenges and autism who require support with acquiring life and social skills such as anger management, sexual safety and establishing positive social connections. I work with my clients to help build tools and strategies for managing their daily life as well developing positive coping mechanisms.
Dr. Shaista Kaba Fatehali- Thrive Kids Counselling
Licensed Professional Counsellor, PhD, MA, BA, BEd, RTC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C
We work with children with early childhood developmental concerns, attachment, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, eating disorders, learning disorders, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
Parenting is one of the most fulfilling yet challenging jobs that one can have- and it does not have to be done alone. I a firm believer of accessing your " people" so that you and your child can feel a sense of support and well-being. If you are here, you are considering someone to be part of your support system and I would be honoured to be one of your "people." At Thrive Kids, we work with children and youth to support their psychological well-being and help them to do their best emotionally, socially and academically so that they can THRIVE. We are here to hold space for all of you.
We work with children with early childhood developmental concerns, attachment, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, eating disorders, learning disorders, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
Parenting is one of the most fulfilling yet challenging jobs that one can have- and it does not have to be done alone. I a firm believer of accessing your " people" so that you and your child can feel a sense of support and well-being. If you are here, you are considering someone to be part of your support system and I would be honoured to be one of your "people." At Thrive Kids, we work with children and youth to support their psychological well-being and help them to do their best emotionally, socially and academically so that they can THRIVE. We are here to hold space for all of you.
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.
Hi! My name is Carolina Hall and I am a Registered Psychologist practicing in Alberta (Medicine Hat) and BC (Lower-mainland). I provide counselling, consulting and assessment services. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and their families. I have extensive training in play therapy and am a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor. I also use such modalities as CBT, DBT, EMDR and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I provide consultation for children who have behavioral and/or emotional issues. As well as complete Autism, ADHD (socio-emotional) and Psycho-Educational Assessments.
Hi! My name is Carolina Hall and I am a Registered Psychologist practicing in Alberta (Medicine Hat) and BC (Lower-mainland). I provide counselling, consulting and assessment services. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and their families. I have extensive training in play therapy and am a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor. I also use such modalities as CBT, DBT, EMDR and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I provide consultation for children who have behavioral and/or emotional issues. As well as complete Autism, ADHD (socio-emotional) and Psycho-Educational Assessments.
Rubina Mangat - SupportedGuidance.com
Counsellor, MA, RCC, NCC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C
One of only two, Dual-Trained in Canada; Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Board Certified Counsellor (NCC) and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). Over 20 years of providing support and treatment to children, youth and adults. My services include: individual & group counselling, ABA home-based services, school consultations & life coaching. It is truly a privilege to work alongside my clients in our sacred space, as they embark on their journey to personal wellness and potential! ***Note: If you wish to get in touch, please do so by email as unfortunately it's near impossible to return every voicemail. Thank you!
One of only two, Dual-Trained in Canada; Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Board Certified Counsellor (NCC) and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). Over 20 years of providing support and treatment to children, youth and adults. My services include: individual & group counselling, ABA home-based services, school consultations & life coaching. It is truly a privilege to work alongside my clients in our sacred space, as they embark on their journey to personal wellness and potential! ***Note: If you wish to get in touch, please do so by email as unfortunately it's near impossible to return every voicemail. Thank you!
Wiseheart Counselling - Jane St Claire
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C
Have you been feeling lately like life shouldn’t be so hard? Do you ever feel like your upbringing didn’t equip you with the coping and communication skills you need to create the kind of life you want? Are you walking on eggshells in your relationships because you don’t know how to address the big underlying issues? Do you feel overwhelmed – even physically – in the face of your daily tasks and stressors? You are not alone. And I can help.
Have you been feeling lately like life shouldn’t be so hard? Do you ever feel like your upbringing didn’t equip you with the coping and communication skills you need to create the kind of life you want? Are you walking on eggshells in your relationships because you don’t know how to address the big underlying issues? Do you feel overwhelmed – even physically – in the face of your daily tasks and stressors? You are not alone. And I can help.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
Dr. Stephen Rochefort is a registered psychologist with a practice in forensic and clinical psychology. He offers professional psychological services based out of Coquitlam, British Columbia. Dr. Stephen provides assessment, treatment, and consultative services. He offers services to address a diverse range of concerns including anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, abuse, domestic violence, trauma, self-harm, suicidality, eating disorders, and personality disorders. In the forensic realm, Dr. Stephen offers risk assessment, psychological evaluation, and treatment services in the areas of criminal and civil forensics.
Dr. Stephen Rochefort is a registered psychologist with a practice in forensic and clinical psychology. He offers professional psychological services based out of Coquitlam, British Columbia. Dr. Stephen provides assessment, treatment, and consultative services. He offers services to address a diverse range of concerns including anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, abuse, domestic violence, trauma, self-harm, suicidality, eating disorders, and personality disorders. In the forensic realm, Dr. Stephen offers risk assessment, psychological evaluation, and treatment services in the areas of criminal and civil forensics.
Reaching out for help with a problem can be very intimidating! It may help you to know that our work together will always be based upon YOUR values and goals and a shared understanding of the problem. I use cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based methods to help people who struggle with unpleasant feelings, problem behaviors, or under-functioning. I'm a huge fan of ACT Therapy, which helps you to notice and disentangle from unhelpful thoughts, notice and accept diffiuclt feelings, orient to the present moment and commit to actions that move you towards what you want in life - towards your values!
Reaching out for help with a problem can be very intimidating! It may help you to know that our work together will always be based upon YOUR values and goals and a shared understanding of the problem. I use cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based methods to help people who struggle with unpleasant feelings, problem behaviors, or under-functioning. I'm a huge fan of ACT Therapy, which helps you to notice and disentangle from unhelpful thoughts, notice and accept diffiuclt feelings, orient to the present moment and commit to actions that move you towards what you want in life - towards your values!
Jasmine Alexander
Counsellor, MA, RPC, RCC, CCC, CCPCPR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Coquitlam, BC V3B
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
15 Second Videos
Wiseheart Counselling - Jane St Claire
Strength Counselling Services
Yanina Maggiorino
Ridge Meadows Counselling works with children, youth, and parents on issues including anxiety, anger management, depression and behaviour or emotional issues. I have worked with families for over 25 years, and as a mother of four girls, I understand the struggles of family life, of dealing with different personalities, needs, and the constant struggles that can occur. Ridge Meadows Counselling helps parents and children navigate through the tough childhood years, helps adolescence and young adults through their difficult times, and help people renew their sense of hope.
Ridge Meadows Counselling works with children, youth, and parents on issues including anxiety, anger management, depression and behaviour or emotional issues. I have worked with families for over 25 years, and as a mother of four girls, I understand the struggles of family life, of dealing with different personalities, needs, and the constant struggles that can occur. Ridge Meadows Counselling helps parents and children navigate through the tough childhood years, helps adolescence and young adults through their difficult times, and help people renew their sense of hope.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor and have a passion for supporting young people on their journey to becoming the best versions of themselves. I work with children and youth who are having challenges with being able to focus, have ADHD/ADD, self esteem issues, experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, as well as those with learning disabilities. My goal is to develop a deep connection with every person I work with, allowing my clients to feel safe in what may be a vulnerable space. I will ensure that every person who steps into my counselling room feels accepted and non-judged.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor and have a passion for supporting young people on their journey to becoming the best versions of themselves. I work with children and youth who are having challenges with being able to focus, have ADHD/ADD, self esteem issues, experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, as well as those with learning disabilities. My goal is to develop a deep connection with every person I work with, allowing my clients to feel safe in what may be a vulnerable space. I will ensure that every person who steps into my counselling room feels accepted and non-judged.
All feelings welcome! Every experience and decision you've made in your life, has brought you to the present moment in time, to the NOW. I am passionate about providing a safe and caring environment where you can feel felt. Helping you connect with, take care of and honor the most important person in your life, YOU. As we all heal and integrate our past experiences, we are able to apply self-compassion, forgiveness and acceptance which we can then radiate to those around us. When we provide that safety and trust to ourselves, we are able to grow confidence, motivation and feel secure.
All feelings welcome! Every experience and decision you've made in your life, has brought you to the present moment in time, to the NOW. I am passionate about providing a safe and caring environment where you can feel felt. Helping you connect with, take care of and honor the most important person in your life, YOU. As we all heal and integrate our past experiences, we are able to apply self-compassion, forgiveness and acceptance which we can then radiate to those around us. When we provide that safety and trust to ourselves, we are able to grow confidence, motivation and feel secure.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and am located in the community of Pitt Meadows. I provide counselling for individuals experiencing a wide range of personal challenges. Challenges that include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Sometimes people need the ability to express their real feelings about such difficulties, and I endeavor to provide those I work with the space to to do so, while also exploring ways to better cope with and even resolve their problems.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and am located in the community of Pitt Meadows. I provide counselling for individuals experiencing a wide range of personal challenges. Challenges that include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Sometimes people need the ability to express their real feelings about such difficulties, and I endeavor to provide those I work with the space to to do so, while also exploring ways to better cope with and even resolve their problems.
Heather Conrad
Counsellor, MAPC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Coquitlam, BC V3B
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor providing counselling services to clients virtually as well as in-person from my office in Port Moody, BC. I have been a Clinical Counsellor for over 7 years and have worked in several non-profit agencies, as well as in Primary Care. I work with youth (ages 14-18), adults and seniors who are looking for support in the following areas: Coping Skills; Emotion Regulation; ADHD/Executive Functioning; Improving Self-Confidence; Trauma Processing and Recovery; Improving Relationships; Workplace and career support; Burnout; and Parenting Support.
Hello! I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor providing counselling services to clients virtually as well as in-person from my office in Port Moody, BC. I have been a Clinical Counsellor for over 7 years and have worked in several non-profit agencies, as well as in Primary Care. I work with youth (ages 14-18), adults and seniors who are looking for support in the following areas: Coping Skills; Emotion Regulation; ADHD/Executive Functioning; Improving Self-Confidence; Trauma Processing and Recovery; Improving Relationships; Workplace and career support; Burnout; and Parenting Support.
My name is Armaghan, a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in Developmental Psychology. I have dedicated my career to helping children, adolescents, and adults who experience challenges like anxiety disorders, depression, and complex trauma. My therapeutic approach focuses on helping clients develop a strong connection between their heart and brain, fostering self-compassion and self-awareness, which ultimately leads to effective solutions.
My name is Armaghan, a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in Developmental Psychology. I have dedicated my career to helping children, adolescents, and adults who experience challenges like anxiety disorders, depression, and complex trauma. My therapeutic approach focuses on helping clients develop a strong connection between their heart and brain, fostering self-compassion and self-awareness, which ultimately leads to effective solutions.
More Therapists Nearby
I provide psychological and psycho-educational assessment services for individuals with educational, emotional and cognitive disorders. This includes assessments for learning disorders, reading issues, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I work with children, adolescents and adults. I provide treatment interventions for these individuals which are behavioural and CBT based. I have worked in the field for 35 years as a teacher, school psychologist, registered psychologist and provincial consultant for autism and behavioural issues in the schools.
I provide psychological and psycho-educational assessment services for individuals with educational, emotional and cognitive disorders. This includes assessments for learning disorders, reading issues, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I work with children, adolescents and adults. I provide treatment interventions for these individuals which are behavioural and CBT based. I have worked in the field for 35 years as a teacher, school psychologist, registered psychologist and provincial consultant for autism and behavioural issues in the schools.
Dr. Limbos is a registered psychologist who specializes in child psychology, working with children, youth and their families. Our objective is to help children realize their full potential through psychological assessment and treatment. Dr. Limbos has a broad range of experience in clinical and school psychology and will conduct a comprehensive assessment, and formulate a treatment plan for children who present with issues including the following: learning disabilities, giftedness, developmental/intellectual disabilities, autism, ADHD, behavior difficulties, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, self-esteem, divorce, and substance abuse. Dr. focuses on providing timely and professional services for children, adolescents and their families.
Dr. Limbos is a registered psychologist who specializes in child psychology, working with children, youth and their families. Our objective is to help children realize their full potential through psychological assessment and treatment. Dr. Limbos has a broad range of experience in clinical and school psychology and will conduct a comprehensive assessment, and formulate a treatment plan for children who present with issues including the following: learning disabilities, giftedness, developmental/intellectual disabilities, autism, ADHD, behavior difficulties, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, self-esteem, divorce, and substance abuse. Dr. focuses on providing timely and professional services for children, adolescents and their families.
During my studies, I worked as an autism service provider and respite worker, and volunteered as a crisis services responder.
I value inclusivity and aim to cultivate a culture of compassionate curiosity in my sessions. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and safe space for my clients, fostering positive changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to create a tailored plan that meets their unique needs. With a flexible approach in my sessions, regardless of the modality and often incorporating humour, I address clients’ concerns, help them uncover their strengths, and support them in achieving their goals. I believe in the transformative power of therapeutic connection and support, which can facilitate healing and personal growth for anyone.
During my studies, I worked as an autism service provider and respite worker, and volunteered as a crisis services responder.
I value inclusivity and aim to cultivate a culture of compassionate curiosity in my sessions. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and safe space for my clients, fostering positive changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to create a tailored plan that meets their unique needs. With a flexible approach in my sessions, regardless of the modality and often incorporating humour, I address clients’ concerns, help them uncover their strengths, and support them in achieving their goals. I believe in the transformative power of therapeutic connection and support, which can facilitate healing and personal growth for anyone.
Andrea Pastoor
Marriage & Family Therapist, Andrea Pastoor, MAMFT, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coquitlam, BC V3B
I am passionate about walking alongside couples as they navigate the challenges of family life. As an international adoptee, I aim to bring a sense of compassion as I work alongside individuals, children and families in a collaborative and client-centered approach where every individual's voice is heard. I aim to come alongside those with neurodiverse backgrounds and provide a safe, accepting, and warm environment to process life together. I work with various individuals who are working through grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse as well as adoption related concerns such as rejection, identity issues and relational issues
I am passionate about walking alongside couples as they navigate the challenges of family life. As an international adoptee, I aim to bring a sense of compassion as I work alongside individuals, children and families in a collaborative and client-centered approach where every individual's voice is heard. I aim to come alongside those with neurodiverse backgrounds and provide a safe, accepting, and warm environment to process life together. I work with various individuals who are working through grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse as well as adoption related concerns such as rejection, identity issues and relational issues
Jane Mai Ngo
Counsellor, RCC, CCLS, MCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coquitlam, BC V3B (Online Only)
My name is Jane Mai Ngo (she/her) and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). I work with people seeking a stronger sense of purpose, increased self-esteem, self-acceptance, and clarity in their lives. I create a healing space for individuals to recover from the relentless effects of intergenerational and childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and social conditioning that leaves people feeling disconnected from their authentic selves. I will act as a companion on your healing journey, using a strength-based, person-centered, attachment-focused, and culture and trauma-informed lens.
My name is Jane Mai Ngo (she/her) and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). I work with people seeking a stronger sense of purpose, increased self-esteem, self-acceptance, and clarity in their lives. I create a healing space for individuals to recover from the relentless effects of intergenerational and childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and social conditioning that leaves people feeling disconnected from their authentic selves. I will act as a companion on your healing journey, using a strength-based, person-centered, attachment-focused, and culture and trauma-informed lens.
It is tough to see your child in emotional pain without knowing how to help. I have over 20 years of experience as a counsellor and have helped children like yours find their joy again. I have helped kids with issues like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, divorce, school refusal, and behaviour problems. I have a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental approach when working with children and their families.
It is tough to see your child in emotional pain without knowing how to help. I have over 20 years of experience as a counsellor and have helped children like yours find their joy again. I have helped kids with issues like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, divorce, school refusal, and behaviour problems. I have a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental approach when working with children and their families.
QUOIA Therapeutics Inc
Counsellor, MA, RCC, TITC-CT, CFST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coquitlam, BC V3B
Specializing in complex care needs for people with mental and behavioural health diagnoses, I deliver the most progressive treatment strategies in the sector. In addition to client treatment, I also offer educational and clinical supervision services to students and professionals in the sector. Consulting services are also available to larger agencies, organizations and centres who are looking to grow their specialization, obtain education and training or learn more about the complex care approaches in the behavioural and mental health fields.
Specializing in complex care needs for people with mental and behavioural health diagnoses, I deliver the most progressive treatment strategies in the sector. In addition to client treatment, I also offer educational and clinical supervision services to students and professionals in the sector. Consulting services are also available to larger agencies, organizations and centres who are looking to grow their specialization, obtain education and training or learn more about the complex care approaches in the behavioural and mental health fields.
Accepting new clients! I want to help you do the things you need and love to do, without feeling distress; I want to empower people, and help them feel good about their lives and themselves. Through a non-judgmental and individualized approach, we will focus on your values, strengths, and goals. We will work together to build self-awareness, and make the changes that will lead to personal growth. I am passionate about my work and feel honoured to be a part of your mental health journey.
Accepting new clients! I want to help you do the things you need and love to do, without feeling distress; I want to empower people, and help them feel good about their lives and themselves. Through a non-judgmental and individualized approach, we will focus on your values, strengths, and goals. We will work together to build self-awareness, and make the changes that will lead to personal growth. I am passionate about my work and feel honoured to be a part of your mental health journey.
See more therapy options for Port Coquitlam
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Port Coquitlam
- Burnaby
- Coquitlam
- Delta
- Langley
- Maple Ridge
- New Westminster
- North Vancouver
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Moody
- Surrey
- Vancouver
- West Vancouver
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.