Autism Therapists in Surrey, BC

Photo of Doug West, MA, DVATI, RCC-ACS, Counsellor
Doug West
Counsellor, MA, DVATI, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3X
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 Mina Makkar - A Kind Universe Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
A Kind Universe Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
Currently accepting new client in-person or online! I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Simon Fraser University. I am a BCACC registered clinical counsellor with over two decades of experience working for the public school system.I use evidence-based approach to manage and lift a variety of issues, including ADHD, Autism, attachment, trauma, relational abuse, codependency, inner critic, depression, anger, anxiety, loneliness, relationship issues, and negative self-concept. I am well-versed in supporting individuals, couples and families.
Currently accepting new client in-person or online! I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Simon Fraser University. I am a BCACC registered clinical counsellor with over two decades of experience working for the public school system.I use evidence-based approach to manage and lift a variety of issues, including ADHD, Autism, attachment, trauma, relational abuse, codependency, inner critic, depression, anger, anxiety, loneliness, relationship issues, and negative self-concept. I am well-versed in supporting individuals, couples and families.
(450) 823-2660 View (450) 823-2660
Photo of Vermonte Wong - Just Live Counselling Services, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Just Live Counselling Services
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3W
I have been working with children and youth with special needs (in particular but not limited to, Autism with an ABA approach) since 2007.
My office is an all inclusive and safe space for my clients and I care for the well being of all my clients using a collaborative and strength based approach. I often use a variety of approaches including ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and Play Therapy. In addition to working with children and youth, I also work vastly along with LGBTQ+, young adults, and adults whom present concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, amid others.
I have been working with children and youth with special needs (in particular but not limited to, Autism with an ABA approach) since 2007.
My office is an all inclusive and safe space for my clients and I care for the well being of all my clients using a collaborative and strength based approach. I often use a variety of approaches including ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and Play Therapy. In addition to working with children and youth, I also work vastly along with LGBTQ+, young adults, and adults whom present concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, amid others.
(604) 260-0168 View (604) 260-0168
Photo of Karen Mitchinson, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Karen Mitchinson
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
Working with people with autism and people with experiences of childhood or recent trauma is also a special interest of mine.
I enjoy working with people, both children, youth and adults. If you are feeling stress, distress or having difficulties managing a relationship in your life, family issues or conflicts or a loss, I would be happy to help you find that peace and calm that can bring you back to feeling joy and hope in your life. In my experience people often have the answers and the resources within themselves that they discover through counselling. I have extensive experience with mental health and addiction and the families, and autism, couples, and families and would love to work with you in finding the help you are looking for.
Working with people with autism and people with experiences of childhood or recent trauma is also a special interest of mine.
I enjoy working with people, both children, youth and adults. If you are feeling stress, distress or having difficulties managing a relationship in your life, family issues or conflicts or a loss, I would be happy to help you find that peace and calm that can bring you back to feeling joy and hope in your life. In my experience people often have the answers and the resources within themselves that they discover through counselling. I have extensive experience with mental health and addiction and the families, and autism, couples, and families and would love to work with you in finding the help you are looking for.
(587) 315-6871 View (587) 315-6871
Photo of Sophie Thacker, MACP, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Sophie Thacker
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4N  (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 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 Spencer Walker, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Spencer Walker
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3V
My client focus is working with neurodivergent people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Learning Disabilities. Although these differences can be an asset in many situations, individuals may have difficulty navigating a world not necessarily designed for them. Feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and low self esteem may linger from years of feeling misunderstood or being under-equipped in social, school or work settings. Exploring your strengths, obstacles and goals allow you to take charge of your mental health and work with your difference rather than against it.
My client focus is working with neurodivergent people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Learning Disabilities. Although these differences can be an asset in many situations, individuals may have difficulty navigating a world not necessarily designed for them. Feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and low self esteem may linger from years of feeling misunderstood or being under-equipped in social, school or work settings. Exploring your strengths, obstacles and goals allow you to take charge of your mental health and work with your difference rather than against it.
(587) 405-3108 View (587) 405-3108
Photo of Josette Marie Steel, MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Josette Marie Steel
MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A  (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 Dominika Nelly Szymanska - McDonald, MA, CCC, BCaBA
Dominika Nelly Szymanska - McDonald
MA, CCC, BCaBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
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 Jashmesh Sidhu - Wellness North Counselling, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Wellness North Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
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 Glory Mulera, MA CPSY, Counsellor
Glory Mulera
Counsellor, MA CPSY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
With a childhood spent observing the ins and outs of human behavior, my fascination with psychology sparked at an early age. Most of my clients are dealing with trauma, narcissistic abuse, challenging relationships, emotional distress, burnout, and substance use. I also work with individuals with personality disorders (narcissism, borderline, and antisocial) and neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, and giftedness).
With a childhood spent observing the ins and outs of human behavior, my fascination with psychology sparked at an early age. Most of my clients are dealing with trauma, narcissistic abuse, challenging relationships, emotional distress, burnout, and substance use. I also work with individuals with personality disorders (narcissism, borderline, and antisocial) and neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, and giftedness).
(343) 338-4191 View (343) 338-4191
Photo of Tracy Wilkins, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Tracy Wilkins
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
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 Marjolaine M Limbos - Vancouver Child Psychology, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Vancouver Child Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
Treatment offered includes: accommodations to curriculum, individual educational plans, remediation for learning disabilities, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic or interpersonal therapy, for anxiety, depression and trauma, behavior therapy for behavior problems associated with autism and ADHD.
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.
Treatment offered includes: accommodations to curriculum, individual educational plans, remediation for learning disabilities, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic or interpersonal therapy, for anxiety, depression and trauma, behavior therapy for behavior problems associated with autism and ADHD.
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.
(604) 210-1829 View (604) 210-1829
Photo of Lynda Beveridge, PhD, RCC, Counsellor
Lynda Beveridge
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3R
Although this is not an exclusive focus of my work - as a counsellor, parenting facilitator and educator, I do have a depth of understanding related to the specific stressors and challenges experienced by parents, sibling and individuals affected by Autism, Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD.
Do you feel stuck in a rut? Stressed by outside commitments or internalized "should dos"? Do you feel unable to action the changes you want in your life? Taking a first step by engaging in counselling can help you not only adjust how you view yourself, others, and your current circumstances, but also - the results of therapy are usually improved functioning and a happier, healthier life. I work primarily with individuals, couples and families utilizing a collaborative, strengths-based approach.
Although this is not an exclusive focus of my work - as a counsellor, parenting facilitator and educator, I do have a depth of understanding related to the specific stressors and challenges experienced by parents, sibling and individuals affected by Autism, Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD.
Do you feel stuck in a rut? Stressed by outside commitments or internalized "should dos"? Do you feel unable to action the changes you want in your life? Taking a first step by engaging in counselling can help you not only adjust how you view yourself, others, and your current circumstances, but also - the results of therapy are usually improved functioning and a happier, healthier life. I work primarily with individuals, couples and families utilizing a collaborative, strengths-based approach.
(855) 285-8143 View (855) 285-8143
Photo of Benjamin Schulz, PhD, CCC, Counsellor
Benjamin Schulz
Counsellor, PhD, CCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4N
Dr. Schulz’s counselling philosophy is rooted in his Christian worldview and driven by a passion for helping individuals lead meaningful lives. With over 18 years of clinical experience at Fraser Health, he has successfully guided teens struggling with anxiety, depression, gaming addiction, and academic challenges, helping them get back on track. He also specializes in men’s issues, supporting clients through stress, depression, loneliness, career challenges, self-esteem concerns, burnout, relationship difficulties, and pornography addiction. Additionally, he helps clients with OCD, ADHD, and autism rediscover a fulfilling life.
Dr. Schulz’s counselling philosophy is rooted in his Christian worldview and driven by a passion for helping individuals lead meaningful lives. With over 18 years of clinical experience at Fraser Health, he has successfully guided teens struggling with anxiety, depression, gaming addiction, and academic challenges, helping them get back on track. He also specializes in men’s issues, supporting clients through stress, depression, loneliness, career challenges, self-esteem concerns, burnout, relationship difficulties, and pornography addiction. Additionally, he helps clients with OCD, ADHD, and autism rediscover a fulfilling life.
(778) 744-0934 View (778) 744-0934
Photo of Krishna Sharma, M ED, RCC, CVAP, Counsellor
Krishna Sharma
Counsellor, M ED, RCC, CVAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R
Krishna Sharma is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). She holds a second Masters in Educational Leadership and a certified teacher with specializations in Montessori, Special Education and Restorative Justice. She has worked as a Youth and Family therapist with the RCMP and currently works as a scKrishna uses CBT, Narrative and play therapy in her work and is accepting online clients. She has extensive training in trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Behaviour support, Social Emotional Learning, suicide assessments and mindfulness. Services available in English and Punjabi
Krishna Sharma is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). She holds a second Masters in Educational Leadership and a certified teacher with specializations in Montessori, Special Education and Restorative Justice. She has worked as a Youth and Family therapist with the RCMP and currently works as a scKrishna uses CBT, Narrative and play therapy in her work and is accepting online clients. She has extensive training in trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Behaviour support, Social Emotional Learning, suicide assessments and mindfulness. Services available in English and Punjabi
(343) 338-5549 View (343) 338-5549
Photo of Collins Jammal, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Collins Jammal
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4N
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 Samantha Watt, MSc, RTC, Counsellor
Samantha Watt
Counsellor, MSc, RTC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4P
I offer a combination of expressive arts therapy and play therapy to clients who are neurodiverse, have developmental challenges, have suffered trauma, loss, or who have complex family situations. I seek to attune to the client, providing support through empathic listening, whilst also offering a range of arts and play possibilities to explore. Change is possible as the client feels honoured in their unique way of being, whilst grounding and utilizing tools to express authentic aspects of themself. The client discovers resources within themselves that help them overcome obstacles and challenges.
I offer a combination of expressive arts therapy and play therapy to clients who are neurodiverse, have developmental challenges, have suffered trauma, loss, or who have complex family situations. I seek to attune to the client, providing support through empathic listening, whilst also offering a range of arts and play possibilities to explore. Change is possible as the client feels honoured in their unique way of being, whilst grounding and utilizing tools to express authentic aspects of themself. The client discovers resources within themselves that help them overcome obstacles and challenges.
(587) 804-5336 View (587) 804-5336
Photo of Yulande Oosthuyzen, DPC, BACM, BTh, MACS, RPC, Counsellor
Yulande Oosthuyzen
Counsellor, DPC, BACM, BTh, MACS, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4N
Are your relationships struggling because of anger outbursts and unhelpful behavioral patterns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, conflict, challenges with child training, addiction, or overwhelming grief? You should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.
Are your relationships struggling because of anger outbursts and unhelpful behavioral patterns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, conflict, challenges with child training, addiction, or overwhelming grief? You should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.
(778) 720-6355 View (778) 720-6355
Photo of Cory Stewart, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Cory Stewart
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3T
To truly understand and identify the intricate patterns in our thoughts and behaviors, we must move beyond the confines of diagnostic labels. These labels can obscure the richness of the human experience. By embracing a high degree of curiosity, intrigue, and empathy, we can together challenge these limitations and uncover the hidden and often uncomfortable truths that lie just beneath the surface, causing us distress.
To truly understand and identify the intricate patterns in our thoughts and behaviors, we must move beyond the confines of diagnostic labels. These labels can obscure the richness of the human experience. By embracing a high degree of curiosity, intrigue, and empathy, we can together challenge these limitations and uncover the hidden and often uncomfortable truths that lie just beneath the surface, causing us distress.
(647) 490-1919 View (647) 490-1919
1

See more therapy options for Surrey

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.