Autism Therapists in Grimsby, ON

Photo of Emma Bannister - Emma Bannister-Pursue You Psychotherapy, CYCP, OACYC, MA Can, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma Bannister-Pursue You Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, CYCP, OACYC, MA Can
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M  (Online Only)
I help facilitate children and youth through various challenges such as emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioural challenges, bullying/inclusion, social-emotional awareness, stress management, self-esteem, and developing coping skills. As well, I have extensive experience working with children with diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I believe highly in the collaboration between youth and their families to build a supportive environment in which new skills and strategies may be practiced.
I help facilitate children and youth through various challenges such as emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioural challenges, bullying/inclusion, social-emotional awareness, stress management, self-esteem, and developing coping skills. As well, I have extensive experience working with children with diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I believe highly in the collaboration between youth and their families to build a supportive environment in which new skills and strategies may be practiced.
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Photo of Shruti Jigeshbhai Patel - Shruti Patel, BSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Shruti Patel
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M  (Online Only)
If you're looking for someone to support you as you cope with functioning, I’m a warm, straightforward, and trustworthy therapist who certainly doesn’t see herself as the expert of your life (that’s you!). I am here to meet you where you’re at and guide you on your journey, going step-by-step while offering you empathy and validation along the way. Whether you're experiencing high levels of distress, anxiety, isolation, or hopelessness, I hope to create a safe space where we can explore approachable parts of yourself, while acknowledging the difficulties present in your life.
If you're looking for someone to support you as you cope with functioning, I’m a warm, straightforward, and trustworthy therapist who certainly doesn’t see herself as the expert of your life (that’s you!). I am here to meet you where you’re at and guide you on your journey, going step-by-step while offering you empathy and validation along the way. Whether you're experiencing high levels of distress, anxiety, isolation, or hopelessness, I hope to create a safe space where we can explore approachable parts of yourself, while acknowledging the difficulties present in your life.
(289) 812-2814 View (289) 812-2814
Photo of Dr. Chris Friesen, PhD, CPsych, BCN, Psychologist
Dr. Chris Friesen
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, BCN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M
At Niagara Neuropsychology (NiagaraNeuropsychology.com) we offer neuropsychological & psychological assessment and treatment services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We specialize in psychological (e.g., depression and anxiety) or brain-based difficulties (e.g., concussion, TBI, stroke, seizure disorders, ADHD, age-related cognitive changes, early stages of Alzheimer's disease/dementia).
At Niagara Neuropsychology (NiagaraNeuropsychology.com) we offer neuropsychological & psychological assessment and treatment services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We specialize in psychological (e.g., depression and anxiety) or brain-based difficulties (e.g., concussion, TBI, stroke, seizure disorders, ADHD, age-related cognitive changes, early stages of Alzheimer's disease/dementia).
(855) 756-2286 View (855) 756-2286
Photo of Andrea Cottee, BA, BScOT, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Andrea Cottee
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BScOT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M
Accepting new clients: Your life journey can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster. There are times when you need to slow down and explore those unanticipated challenges, transitions, or traumas, impacting your well-being or your capacity to move forward. Stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges can seem overwhelming. Together, we can explore any challenges you face, build connection, and foster a safe, non-judgmental, peaceful, space where we can work together toward greater wellness.
Accepting new clients: Your life journey can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster. There are times when you need to slow down and explore those unanticipated challenges, transitions, or traumas, impacting your well-being or your capacity to move forward. Stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges can seem overwhelming. Together, we can explore any challenges you face, build connection, and foster a safe, non-judgmental, peaceful, space where we can work together toward greater wellness.
(289) 778-4795 View (289) 778-4795
West Niagara Psychology Centre
Psychologist, PhD, C, Psych
Verified Verified
Grimsby, ON L3M
Psychologists and clinicians at the West Niagara Psychology Centre provide psychological assessment and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults, including individual, marital, and group therapy and comprehensive developmental and psychological assessments. We provide client centred services that focus on the individual needs of the clients and their families.
Psychologists and clinicians at the West Niagara Psychology Centre provide psychological assessment and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults, including individual, marital, and group therapy and comprehensive developmental and psychological assessments. We provide client centred services that focus on the individual needs of the clients and their families.
(289) 768-8729 View (289) 768-8729
Photo of Caitlyn Young, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Caitlyn Young
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M
Welcome! I work with folks from young children in play therapy to teen counselling to parent coaching. What works for one child or family won't work for the next and that's why I focus on thorough assessments and working with my clients to set up a therapeutic approach that works for them. I specialize in working with neurodiverse kids, addressing symptoms like anxiety, depression, school refusal, OCD, self harm and suicidal ideation. If you are concerned for your child's mental health or are just looking to help them develop strong tools and supports then I am here to help!
Welcome! I work with folks from young children in play therapy to teen counselling to parent coaching. What works for one child or family won't work for the next and that's why I focus on thorough assessments and working with my clients to set up a therapeutic approach that works for them. I specialize in working with neurodiverse kids, addressing symptoms like anxiety, depression, school refusal, OCD, self harm and suicidal ideation. If you are concerned for your child's mental health or are just looking to help them develop strong tools and supports then I am here to help!
(365) 598-5842 View (365) 598-5842
Photo of Kaitlyn Huskic, BA Psy, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kaitlyn Huskic
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA Psy, MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M
Hello, I am Kaitlyn, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) recognized by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). With an affinity for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an integrative approach is used to aid clients through many of life's struggles. My professional journey is rooted in a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. With genuine care for my client’s well-being, I am dedicated to supporting my clients in achieving their goals and fostering positive change.
Hello, I am Kaitlyn, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) recognized by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). With an affinity for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an integrative approach is used to aid clients through many of life's struggles. My professional journey is rooted in a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. With genuine care for my client’s well-being, I am dedicated to supporting my clients in achieving their goals and fostering positive change.
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Photo of Elisa Rendina-Ashley - Mareas Therapeutic Services Inc, CYC, RP, BSW, MSW
Mareas Therapeutic Services Inc
CYC, RP, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Grimsby, ON L3M
Mareas was established as a specialized service provider to meet the needs of individuals, children and families experiencing challenges in the areas of emotional regulation, anxiety, attachment, interfering behaviours. Mareas recognizes that from time to time, everyone including all families need support. Programs and treatment plans are designed with a holistic approach with the client as the focus. Mareas is committed to providing nurturing and dedicated support to individuals, children, youth and families during difficult periods of time to help them get back on course.
Mareas was established as a specialized service provider to meet the needs of individuals, children and families experiencing challenges in the areas of emotional regulation, anxiety, attachment, interfering behaviours. Mareas recognizes that from time to time, everyone including all families need support. Programs and treatment plans are designed with a holistic approach with the client as the focus. Mareas is committed to providing nurturing and dedicated support to individuals, children, youth and families during difficult periods of time to help them get back on course.
(365) 398-0745 View (365) 398-0745
Photo of Brittani Ali, BA, BSW, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Brittani Ali
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grimsby, ON L3M
Now welcoming new clients (offering in person, virtual, evening/ weekends, pay what you can & sliding scale options). We prioritize a compassionate, judgment free space. We offer a person-centered and trauma informed approach to supporting mental and relational health. We believe that we all come to therapy with complex experiences that often connect and impact us, therefore, our approach will always honour your story and how the parts of it weave together. Britt has gained experience supporting individuals & families over the last 10 years working in the social services field. Britt also provides some supervision.
Now welcoming new clients (offering in person, virtual, evening/ weekends, pay what you can & sliding scale options). We prioritize a compassionate, judgment free space. We offer a person-centered and trauma informed approach to supporting mental and relational health. We believe that we all come to therapy with complex experiences that often connect and impact us, therefore, our approach will always honour your story and how the parts of it weave together. Britt has gained experience supporting individuals & families over the last 10 years working in the social services field. Britt also provides some supervision.
(226) 781-0988 View (226) 781-0988

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hayley Ratcliffe, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hayley Ratcliffe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
I typically find myself working with younger people who struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, and BPD.
Do you struggle with feeling like you do not belong or are you beginning to want to explore your childhood more? Many of those who I work with have ADHD or have an autism diagnosis and those who want to understand how their childhood may be affecting them now. I like to be lighthearted and use humor in my practice.. This with my background of working with young people in a post-secondary setting and my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies has profoundly shaped my perspective. Most of my clients are young people wanting to understand themselves better in one way or another.
I typically find myself working with younger people who struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, and BPD.
Do you struggle with feeling like you do not belong or are you beginning to want to explore your childhood more? Many of those who I work with have ADHD or have an autism diagnosis and those who want to understand how their childhood may be affecting them now. I like to be lighthearted and use humor in my practice.. This with my background of working with young people in a post-secondary setting and my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies has profoundly shaped my perspective. Most of my clients are young people wanting to understand themselves better in one way or another.
(226) 241-9253 View (226) 241-9253
Photo of Jan A. Wozniak, GBA, HBA Phl, HBA Psy, MA Phl, APPA
Jan A. Wozniak
GBA, HBA Phl, HBA Psy, MA Phl, APPA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
In my practice, I use a holistic process that is client-centered and strength-based, incorporating insight from Eastern and Western philosophy, psychology, social work, and the arts. This framework ensures that we select accessible tools, resources, and mediums that resonate and support your current needs. It is my goal to help clients address difficult questions, work through challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and make well-informed decisions that support their goals and overall wellbeing. My research and practice focus primarily on autism, ADHD, dual diagnosis, anxiety, stress, education, employment, and relationships.
In my practice, I use a holistic process that is client-centered and strength-based, incorporating insight from Eastern and Western philosophy, psychology, social work, and the arts. This framework ensures that we select accessible tools, resources, and mediums that resonate and support your current needs. It is my goal to help clients address difficult questions, work through challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and make well-informed decisions that support their goals and overall wellbeing. My research and practice focus primarily on autism, ADHD, dual diagnosis, anxiety, stress, education, employment, and relationships.
(437) 292-3815 View (437) 292-3815
Photo of Alisha Stubbs, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, PhD(c), Registered Social Worker
Alisha Stubbs
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
With 15 years of clinical social work experience (MSW, RSW), Alisha works from a place of curiosity and collaboration, rather than authority. She has a wide variety of clinical and supervision experiences and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in social work where she will research autism, females, and the education system. Alisha is passionate about the world of neurodiversity, and autism in particular. Alisha has no agenda to pathologize your experience and is instead interested in hearing your story. You are the expert of your world. No one knows what you are going through better than you.
With 15 years of clinical social work experience (MSW, RSW), Alisha works from a place of curiosity and collaboration, rather than authority. She has a wide variety of clinical and supervision experiences and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in social work where she will research autism, females, and the education system. Alisha is passionate about the world of neurodiversity, and autism in particular. Alisha has no agenda to pathologize your experience and is instead interested in hearing your story. You are the expert of your world. No one knows what you are going through better than you.
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Photo of Sarah Husain, MEd, CPsych, Psychologist
Sarah Husain
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8E
I also have extensive training in learning and development, and provide comprehensive psycho-educational assessment and diagnosis of learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and giftedness/high ability.
I am a licensed clinical and school psychologist with over 14 years experience working with children, teens, and their parents. I provide treatment for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, oppositional behaviour, emotional regulation, grief, trauma, social skills, and relationship difficulties. I use different modalities as needed, including CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, and emotion focused therapies. I value caregiver involvement , and offer parent/caregiver support for challenging issues.
I also have extensive training in learning and development, and provide comprehensive psycho-educational assessment and diagnosis of learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and giftedness/high ability.
I am a licensed clinical and school psychologist with over 14 years experience working with children, teens, and their parents. I provide treatment for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, oppositional behaviour, emotional regulation, grief, trauma, social skills, and relationship difficulties. I use different modalities as needed, including CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, and emotion focused therapies. I value caregiver involvement , and offer parent/caregiver support for challenging issues.
(289) 512-2955 View (289) 512-2955
Photo of Jordon Iorio - First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist), RSW, Hons BA, MACP, Registered Social Worker
First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist)
Registered Social Worker, RSW, Hons BA, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
My specialities include: ADHD, anxiety, sports performance, autism, depression, grief, divorce, infidelity, career guidance, behavioural issues, men's issues, parenting, stress, insomnia, life coaching, addiction, chronic pain, and substance use.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming! The men I see feel stuck, lost, powerless, distracted, disconnected, or broken. Men often struggle with their mental health without seeking help for far too long. I work with men from all walks of life who struggle with managing ADHD and other neurodivergent challenges, career and life transitions, sports performance anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and addiction. In each of these instances, my aim is to help provide a safe, supportive, and therapeutic setting for you to learn more about yourself and find healing. Book a free 20-minute consultation by clicking the "website" button now.
My specialities include: ADHD, anxiety, sports performance, autism, depression, grief, divorce, infidelity, career guidance, behavioural issues, men's issues, parenting, stress, insomnia, life coaching, addiction, chronic pain, and substance use.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming! The men I see feel stuck, lost, powerless, distracted, disconnected, or broken. Men often struggle with their mental health without seeking help for far too long. I work with men from all walks of life who struggle with managing ADHD and other neurodivergent challenges, career and life transitions, sports performance anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and addiction. In each of these instances, my aim is to help provide a safe, supportive, and therapeutic setting for you to learn more about yourself and find healing. Book a free 20-minute consultation by clicking the "website" button now.
(289) 278-9425 View (289) 278-9425
Photo of Angel G Graham, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Angel G Graham
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Beamsville, ON L0R
My clinical skills also include trauma, divorce, autism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, parenting issues and adolescent struggles.
Everyone has the potential to grow and thrive despite any adversity they may experience. Life can be challenging and as such everyone can benefit from therapy. I operate from a trauma-informed lens and strive to assist my clients with moving forward with a resilient mindset. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults and families on their grief journey. I respect each client's story. While grief/loss is an area that I specialize in, my expertise extends to assisting individuals who are struggling with daily life stressors and mental health challenges.
My clinical skills also include trauma, divorce, autism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, parenting issues and adolescent struggles.
Everyone has the potential to grow and thrive despite any adversity they may experience. Life can be challenging and as such everyone can benefit from therapy. I operate from a trauma-informed lens and strive to assist my clients with moving forward with a resilient mindset. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults and families on their grief journey. I respect each client's story. While grief/loss is an area that I specialize in, my expertise extends to assisting individuals who are struggling with daily life stressors and mental health challenges.
(289) 807-1274 View (289) 807-1274
Photo of Tasha Lafortune, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tasha Lafortune
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, racing thoughts, or intense emotions? You’re not alone. Whether you're navigating life as a neurodiverse individual, exploring your identity within the LGBTQ+ community, or simply seeking to build greater self-awareness, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll uncover the tools and strategies that work best for you, helping you regain control and find fulfillment. With compassion and expertise, we can navigate these challenges and celebrate your unique journey. Let’s work together to create a more balanced, joyful, and authentic life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, racing thoughts, or intense emotions? You’re not alone. Whether you're navigating life as a neurodiverse individual, exploring your identity within the LGBTQ+ community, or simply seeking to build greater self-awareness, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll uncover the tools and strategies that work best for you, helping you regain control and find fulfillment. With compassion and expertise, we can navigate these challenges and celebrate your unique journey. Let’s work together to create a more balanced, joyful, and authentic life.
(437) 432-1007 View (437) 432-1007
Photo of Erin Lowry, MACP, MADS, BASc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Lowry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP, MADS, BASc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Life can be beautiful, fulfilling and joyful, yet at times full of pain. Challenges, anxiety, grief, or major life transitions can create obstacles and get in the way of experiencing the life you hope to. These obstacles may manifest overtime or come out of nowhere, be big or small, reoccurring, or new; yet their impact can be significant and overwhelming. It is normal to feel this impact and be lost in knowing what to do. I’m here to tell you, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Life can be beautiful, fulfilling and joyful, yet at times full of pain. Challenges, anxiety, grief, or major life transitions can create obstacles and get in the way of experiencing the life you hope to. These obstacles may manifest overtime or come out of nowhere, be big or small, reoccurring, or new; yet their impact can be significant and overwhelming. It is normal to feel this impact and be lost in knowing what to do. I’m here to tell you, you don’t have to go through it alone.
(289) 275-1276 View (289) 275-1276
Photo of Stephanie Baker - Sisu Counselling, Consulting, & Supervision, PhD, RSW, SEP, Registered Social Worker
Sisu Counselling, Consulting, & Supervision
Registered Social Worker, PhD, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
For over 25 years, trauma has been a consistent thread woven throughout the experiences of those I have served in the course of my social work practice. I have been privileged to support a variety of people across a diverse range of ages and needs in both community and institutional settings. As a result of my personal and professional experiences, I have come to believe that adversity is a call to growth and that everyone has the requisite resources/skills to achieve their goals.
For over 25 years, trauma has been a consistent thread woven throughout the experiences of those I have served in the course of my social work practice. I have been privileged to support a variety of people across a diverse range of ages and needs in both community and institutional settings. As a result of my personal and professional experiences, I have come to believe that adversity is a call to growth and that everyone has the requisite resources/skills to achieve their goals.
(289) 212-6932 View (289) 212-6932
Photo of Leanna Bissell: Pause Ponder Psychotherapy, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Leanna Bissell: Pause Ponder Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8J
Are you concerned that you might be having issues in any of the following areas?: Addictions (alcohol, drugs, social media, sex), ADHD (poor time management, disorganized thoughts), Trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), Anxiety (social anxiety, worry and rumination), Depression (low mood, low motivation, fatigue, poor concentration, postpartum), Acquired brain injury, Body dissatisfaction (dieting/restricting, chronic eating, emotional eating) , Borderline Personality Disorder, Impulse Control and Managing urges.
Are you concerned that you might be having issues in any of the following areas?: Addictions (alcohol, drugs, social media, sex), ADHD (poor time management, disorganized thoughts), Trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), Anxiety (social anxiety, worry and rumination), Depression (low mood, low motivation, fatigue, poor concentration, postpartum), Acquired brain injury, Body dissatisfaction (dieting/restricting, chronic eating, emotional eating) , Borderline Personality Disorder, Impulse Control and Managing urges.
(289) 271-0754 View (289) 271-0754
Photo of James Sullivan, BMus, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
James Sullivan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BMus, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
I aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of self, starting with their own relationship with their self. Striding towards self acceptance, while working through challenges brought on by , self-esteem, sexuality, gender, anxiety, neurodivergence, depression and much more. Self-exploration often comes with discomfort, as your guide I will walk alongside you on your journey. I am a firm believer that each client is the expert in their own life, and encourage independence, confidence, self-care in all aspects of life. While my clients often reflect similarities in my own identity, I work with clients from all backgrounds.
I aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of self, starting with their own relationship with their self. Striding towards self acceptance, while working through challenges brought on by , self-esteem, sexuality, gender, anxiety, neurodivergence, depression and much more. Self-exploration often comes with discomfort, as your guide I will walk alongside you on your journey. I am a firm believer that each client is the expert in their own life, and encourage independence, confidence, self-care in all aspects of life. While my clients often reflect similarities in my own identity, I work with clients from all backgrounds.
(437) 500-6423 View (437) 500-6423

See more therapy options for Grimsby

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.