Photo of Mary Kwan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Mary Kwan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5C
Having practiced as a Clinical Psychologist overseas for 20 years, I am very familiar with all kinds of conditions. If you are having relationship with your spouse or others, I can help. You might be stressed out trying to parent your children, whatever age they maybe and esp for offsprings who have ADHD, Autism or learning problems, I love to help. Or you maybe depressed, anxious, wanting to work out your inner issues so that you can be a happy person, I am here to give you a hand. Or you might have a lot of pain/stress in your life, with various kinds of addictions not knowing where to do, I am here to help you find your way out.
Having practiced as a Clinical Psychologist overseas for 20 years, I am very familiar with all kinds of conditions. If you are having relationship with your spouse or others, I can help. You might be stressed out trying to parent your children, whatever age they maybe and esp for offsprings who have ADHD, Autism or learning problems, I love to help. Or you maybe depressed, anxious, wanting to work out your inner issues so that you can be a happy person, I am here to give you a hand. Or you might have a lot of pain/stress in your life, with various kinds of addictions not knowing where to do, I am here to help you find your way out.
(437) 747-8155 View (437) 747-8155
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
Toronto, ON M2N  (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 Edward George Scea, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Edward George Scea
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2M
As a mental health survivor, person living with autism, caregiver to those living with dementia, autism, mental health, and intellectual disabilities I have a personal understanding of many struggles many face.
As individuals living in an often harsh world, often pushed to and fro from external and internal influences, we all will need at some point an anchor to ground ourselves. It should be the right of every individual to have the firm foundation to build on and achieve their greatest potential. We know that we can not grow to become our best selves in a vacuum. Just as building a strong foundation for a building required a group of skilled artisans so too do we as individuals need a strong skilled support network as none of us can succeed alone.
As a mental health survivor, person living with autism, caregiver to those living with dementia, autism, mental health, and intellectual disabilities I have a personal understanding of many struggles many face.
As individuals living in an often harsh world, often pushed to and fro from external and internal influences, we all will need at some point an anchor to ground ourselves. It should be the right of every individual to have the firm foundation to build on and achieve their greatest potential. We know that we can not grow to become our best selves in a vacuum. Just as building a strong foundation for a building required a group of skilled artisans so too do we as individuals need a strong skilled support network as none of us can succeed alone.
(289) 207-5453 View (289) 207-5453
Photo of Wintana Amare, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Wintana Amare
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Are you a teen or young adult navigating life's challenges? You're not alone. I specialize in supporting teens and young adults as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and young adulthood. As a therapist, my focus is on addressing neurodiverse issues, anxiety, and the various transitions that teens and young adults face. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, or navigating the complexities of neurodiverse conditions, I provide a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
Are you a teen or young adult navigating life's challenges? You're not alone. I specialize in supporting teens and young adults as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and young adulthood. As a therapist, my focus is on addressing neurodiverse issues, anxiety, and the various transitions that teens and young adults face. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, or navigating the complexities of neurodiverse conditions, I provide a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
(343) 341-4982 View (343) 341-4982
Photo of Sofia Antoniadis, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sofia Antoniadis
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4E  (Online Only)
My name is Sofia and I have been providing counselling services for 6 years. I strive to offer a secure space to facilitate transformative self-discovery and healing. I take a client-centered approach, emphasizing your strengths and inspiring hope. To achieve a brighter future, I am committed to assist you in achieving sustainable change. You have taken an important step by seeking help, and I am prepared to assist you in discovering your resilience. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to assist you to obtain your overall well-being. Offering phone and virtual appointments at this time. I am accepting adult clients now.
My name is Sofia and I have been providing counselling services for 6 years. I strive to offer a secure space to facilitate transformative self-discovery and healing. I take a client-centered approach, emphasizing your strengths and inspiring hope. To achieve a brighter future, I am committed to assist you in achieving sustainable change. You have taken an important step by seeking help, and I am prepared to assist you in discovering your resilience. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to assist you to obtain your overall well-being. Offering phone and virtual appointments at this time. I am accepting adult clients now.
(647) 494-9219 View (647) 494-9219
Photo of Pawel Biedrzycki - Heyday Therapy Inc, BA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Heyday Therapy Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
(647) 797-9743 View (647) 797-9743
Photo of Nilani Kuhapalan, BEd, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Nilani Kuhapalan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BEd, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6R  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with constantly feeling stressed and it affecting your everyday life? Do you feel anxious by just getting through the day? Do you wish that your emotional well-being could be better? Now more than ever, people with diverse backgrounds are feeling disconnected about adjusting to changes.
Do you struggle with constantly feeling stressed and it affecting your everyday life? Do you feel anxious by just getting through the day? Do you wish that your emotional well-being could be better? Now more than ever, people with diverse backgrounds are feeling disconnected about adjusting to changes.
(647) 692-4563 View (647) 692-4563
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y  (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.
(226) 400-7197 View (226) 400-7197
Photo of Alexandra Kljuseva, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Alexandra Kljuseva
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Therapy is not so much as "what do you need from me", but rather, "what do you need from you?" Who would you like to be for yourself? My humanistic background compels me to believe that clients often carry potential for growth that may be nurtured by the therapeutic relationship. While the specifics of clients' issues may vary, ultimately, many of us wish to be heard and understood. Although therapy may be directive at times, I often allow clients to lead and exercise their capacity for change.
Therapy is not so much as "what do you need from me", but rather, "what do you need from you?" Who would you like to be for yourself? My humanistic background compels me to believe that clients often carry potential for growth that may be nurtured by the therapeutic relationship. While the specifics of clients' issues may vary, ultimately, many of us wish to be heard and understood. Although therapy may be directive at times, I often allow clients to lead and exercise their capacity for change.
(647) 956-7152 View (647) 956-7152
Photo of Marlen Iskander, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marlen Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
(289) 216-5843 View (289) 216-5843
Photo of Becky Mathieu, CYW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Becky Mathieu
Registered Psychotherapist, CYW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
Hi, I'm Becky Mathieu a registered psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, and adults at MindFit, a leading psychology clinic (or as prefer to say, "mental health gym"). Just like a "typical" gym, MindFit was designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. From day one, I will do everything I can to ensure you and/or your child feels heard, supported and valued. My approach is structured (with weekly handouts), evidence-based, and designed to help you develop practical and effective skills and strategies to not only cope, but thrive.
Hi, I'm Becky Mathieu a registered psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, and adults at MindFit, a leading psychology clinic (or as prefer to say, "mental health gym"). Just like a "typical" gym, MindFit was designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. From day one, I will do everything I can to ensure you and/or your child feels heard, supported and valued. My approach is structured (with weekly handouts), evidence-based, and designed to help you develop practical and effective skills and strategies to not only cope, but thrive.
(437) 747-0834 View (437) 747-0834
Photo of Lisa Romano-Dwyer, MSW, PhD, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Romano-Dwyer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, PhD, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4J
Lisa Romano-Dwyer is a registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist (OCSWSSW) located in Beaches-East York, Toronto. Owner of Lakeside Wellness Therapy Affiliates, Lisa and her affiliates use strength-based therapies, psychotherapy-informed health and wellness coaching, relationship repair, and compassion mind training. Lisa is a results-oriented, reliable, trustworthy and compassionate counsellor who works with you to develop solutions. Her areas of specialization include increasing focus, achievement, gratitude, personal health, and joy. Lisa works with you to alleviate emotional pain and restore wellness & health.
Lisa Romano-Dwyer is a registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist (OCSWSSW) located in Beaches-East York, Toronto. Owner of Lakeside Wellness Therapy Affiliates, Lisa and her affiliates use strength-based therapies, psychotherapy-informed health and wellness coaching, relationship repair, and compassion mind training. Lisa is a results-oriented, reliable, trustworthy and compassionate counsellor who works with you to develop solutions. Her areas of specialization include increasing focus, achievement, gratitude, personal health, and joy. Lisa works with you to alleviate emotional pain and restore wellness & health.
(437) 747-8541 View (437) 747-8541
Photo of Justin Michel - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
We are a diverse team of over 40 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
We are a diverse team of over 40 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(437) 747-5668 View (437) 747-5668
Photo of Dr. James A. Robinson, PhD, BCPCC, LMFT, BCMMHC, BCPC, Pastoral Counsellor
Dr. James A. Robinson
Pastoral Counsellor, PhD, BCPCC, LMFT, BCMMHC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6B
I am a licensed/Certified Professional Pastoral Christian Counselor. My specialties include Marriage and Family, Drugs & Addiction, Depression, ADHD, Abuse, Forgiveness, Anger, Trauma/Crisis, Anxiety, Grief, and PTSD. Mankind is of two natures, physical and spiritual. We often ensure we are physically fulfilled but tend to neglect our spiritual side. I utilize Christian resources to address a wide spectrum of disorders and daily life challenges, and by the renewing of the mind.
I am a licensed/Certified Professional Pastoral Christian Counselor. My specialties include Marriage and Family, Drugs & Addiction, Depression, ADHD, Abuse, Forgiveness, Anger, Trauma/Crisis, Anxiety, Grief, and PTSD. Mankind is of two natures, physical and spiritual. We often ensure we are physically fulfilled but tend to neglect our spiritual side. I utilize Christian resources to address a wide spectrum of disorders and daily life challenges, and by the renewing of the mind.
(855) 534-3929 View (855) 534-3929
Photo of Alice Wiafe - Black Mental Health Canada, MA, RP, Psy Dc, Registered Psychotherapist
Black Mental Health Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, Psy Dc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4N
Not sure where to find a black or culturally safe and sensitive therapist? Worried about the cost of accessing mental health supports? Unsure if supports are necessary or where to learn more? Black Mental Health Canada exists to provide access to affordable mental health services and education for the Black community. We’re here to provide you with the mental health supports you need, when you need them.
Not sure where to find a black or culturally safe and sensitive therapist? Worried about the cost of accessing mental health supports? Unsure if supports are necessary or where to learn more? Black Mental Health Canada exists to provide access to affordable mental health services and education for the Black community. We’re here to provide you with the mental health supports you need, when you need them.
(647) 696-6421 View (647) 696-6421
Photo of Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw., PhD, PsyD, Registered Social Worker
Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw.
Registered Social Worker, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4W
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
(844) 382-8975 View (844) 382-8975
Photo of Iyabode Titilayo (Titi) Ohiku, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Iyabode Titilayo (Titi) Ohiku
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am accepting new clients. My practice provides psychotherapy to support emotional distress, but not limited anxiety, depression, anger, stress, grief, ADHD, relationship issues, and racial trauma. Do you sometimes think to yourself "my child's behaviour is out of control?" We work with individuals, children, youth, and families struggling with emotional, psychological, mental health and behavioural challenges. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. We offer a variety of counselling and psychotherapy services to ensure that you and your loved ones can build happy and healthy lives.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am accepting new clients. My practice provides psychotherapy to support emotional distress, but not limited anxiety, depression, anger, stress, grief, ADHD, relationship issues, and racial trauma. Do you sometimes think to yourself "my child's behaviour is out of control?" We work with individuals, children, youth, and families struggling with emotional, psychological, mental health and behavioural challenges. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. We offer a variety of counselling and psychotherapy services to ensure that you and your loved ones can build happy and healthy lives.
(289) 278-6780 View (289) 278-6780
Photo of Alisha Mann - Emdr Therapist, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Alisha Mann - Emdr Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6J
Now offering EMDR Intensives - Ms. Alisha Mann is a Registered Psychotherapist, with training in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Alisha has a Master of Arts in Psychology and is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) through the College of Registered Psychotherapists in Ontario (CRPO). She utilizes an open, respectful, and mindful approach when working with individuals from all walks of life. She speaks English, Hindi, and Punjabi fluently.
Now offering EMDR Intensives - Ms. Alisha Mann is a Registered Psychotherapist, with training in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Alisha has a Master of Arts in Psychology and is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) through the College of Registered Psychotherapists in Ontario (CRPO). She utilizes an open, respectful, and mindful approach when working with individuals from all walks of life. She speaks English, Hindi, and Punjabi fluently.
(289) 302-5713 View (289) 302-5713
Photo of Gauri Mathur - Vaughan Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Vaughan Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to our page! Whether you stumbled this page because of a recent break-up, divorce, an addiction you want to break, marriage problems or just looking to find ways to cope with your stress, you found the right place. We specialize in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work and other modalities to assist you. We can provide you with tools to help you cope but can also assist you in finding and healing the core issue.
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to our page! Whether you stumbled this page because of a recent break-up, divorce, an addiction you want to break, marriage problems or just looking to find ways to cope with your stress, you found the right place. We specialize in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work and other modalities to assist you. We can provide you with tools to help you cope but can also assist you in finding and healing the core issue.
(365) 800-5972 View (365) 800-5972
Photo of Emily Shaver, SSW, BSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Emily Shaver
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in a field that allowed me to work with people and my faith has called me to serve those around me. My education includes a Diploma in Social Service Work from Niagara College, a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Waterloo, and a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. Growing up, I struggled with reconciling my indigenous identity with the pressures of assimilation and societal expectations. This inner conflict sparked my passion for understanding the complexities of cultural identity and the impact it has on mental health.
I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in a field that allowed me to work with people and my faith has called me to serve those around me. My education includes a Diploma in Social Service Work from Niagara College, a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Waterloo, and a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. Growing up, I struggled with reconciling my indigenous identity with the pressures of assimilation and societal expectations. This inner conflict sparked my passion for understanding the complexities of cultural identity and the impact it has on mental health.
(289) 903-1274 View (289) 903-1274
1

See more therapy options for Toronto

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.