Autism Therapists in Saskatoon, SK
Eileen M Deswiage
Counsellor, BSc, MSc, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K (Online Only)
I provide online virtual counselling/support to those with neurodiversity (Autism and/or ADHD/ADD) with specific therapeutic approaches, training and resources to those who are neuro-diverse thinkers and/or for those supporting children, youth, & adults w/ ASD, ADHD, anxiety and depression.
Have you or someone you know experienced sensory overload, dysregulation, struggle w/ social skills, anxiety or depression, and need support learning new strategies for home/school/work life balance? I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor who works with those on the neurodiversity spectrum (Autism, ADHD/ADD). I offer online counselling to individuals youth (13yrs & up) and adults struggling with mental health issues and consulting services (webinars, training & resources). I provide virtual therapy services to those who live in either urban or rural/remote locations within Canada.
I provide online virtual counselling/support to those with neurodiversity (Autism and/or ADHD/ADD) with specific therapeutic approaches, training and resources to those who are neuro-diverse thinkers and/or for those supporting children, youth, & adults w/ ASD, ADHD, anxiety and depression.
Have you or someone you know experienced sensory overload, dysregulation, struggle w/ social skills, anxiety or depression, and need support learning new strategies for home/school/work life balance? I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor who works with those on the neurodiversity spectrum (Autism, ADHD/ADD). I offer online counselling to individuals youth (13yrs & up) and adults struggling with mental health issues and consulting services (webinars, training & resources). I provide virtual therapy services to those who live in either urban or rural/remote locations within Canada.
My ideal client is someone ready for a journey of self-discovery, dealing with issues like identity, anxiety, or depression. They seek a therapist who celebrates their uniqueness, providing a safe space for exploration. They want to reshape thought patterns, embrace emotions and values, and nurture self-compassion. Their goal is a strong, authentic self, free from self-doubt, and armed with tools to thrive in life's complexities. I specialize in working with the neurodivergent crowd—ADHD, Autism—and gender-diverse people.
My ideal client is someone ready for a journey of self-discovery, dealing with issues like identity, anxiety, or depression. They seek a therapist who celebrates their uniqueness, providing a safe space for exploration. They want to reshape thought patterns, embrace emotions and values, and nurture self-compassion. Their goal is a strong, authentic self, free from self-doubt, and armed with tools to thrive in life's complexities. I specialize in working with the neurodivergent crowd—ADHD, Autism—and gender-diverse people.
Alexandria Kennedy
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like a failure because you don’t quite fit in this world? Do you feel guilt and shame because you can’t keep up with the expectations put on you? Does life feel just a little too overwhelming? I specialize in helping those who feel stuck in patterns that bring frustration and shame. You might be diagnosed with ADHD, Autism or just feel like you are struggling to get through the messiness and confusion of grief, anxiety, depression, or trauma. You might be someone struggling to support a loved one who is trying to make their way in a world that isn’t designed for them.
Do you feel like a failure because you don’t quite fit in this world? Do you feel guilt and shame because you can’t keep up with the expectations put on you? Does life feel just a little too overwhelming? I specialize in helping those who feel stuck in patterns that bring frustration and shame. You might be diagnosed with ADHD, Autism or just feel like you are struggling to get through the messiness and confusion of grief, anxiety, depression, or trauma. You might be someone struggling to support a loved one who is trying to make their way in a world that isn’t designed for them.
Heidi Watson
Occupational Therapist, MOT, BSc, CDT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7L (Online Only)
As an occupational therapist specializing in Autism, ADHD, and parenting, my mission is to empower individuals to thrive and families to connect.
Ranging from children to teens and young adults, I work with families seeking comprehensive support for their loved ones' development journey. I'm drawn to those with diverse needs, whether it's Autism, ADHD challenges, or parents seeking guidance. My clients embrace the power of play-based learning and are open to creative, engaging approaches. They're motivated for positive change, and excited to set collaborative goals through the convenience of online sessions, driven by virtual and IRL games.
As an occupational therapist specializing in Autism, ADHD, and parenting, my mission is to empower individuals to thrive and families to connect.
Ranging from children to teens and young adults, I work with families seeking comprehensive support for their loved ones' development journey. I'm drawn to those with diverse needs, whether it's Autism, ADHD challenges, or parents seeking guidance. My clients embrace the power of play-based learning and are open to creative, engaging approaches. They're motivated for positive change, and excited to set collaborative goals through the convenience of online sessions, driven by virtual and IRL games.
Amélie Rossignol
Counsellor, RTC, HHP, BSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7W (Online Only)
Do you want to explore your differences? Perhaps you are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, etc.), gifted, 2slgbtqia+, intense, a parent of a high needs child, or different in some other way. Your challenges may include dealing with intense feelings, being over-critical of yourself, being easily overwhelmed by life, stress-related physical conditions, feeling alone, or a tendency to put your own needs last. I offer a safe and accepting space to explore who you really are, and what you need to survive and thrive in a world not designed for you.
Do you want to explore your differences? Perhaps you are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, etc.), gifted, 2slgbtqia+, intense, a parent of a high needs child, or different in some other way. Your challenges may include dealing with intense feelings, being over-critical of yourself, being easily overwhelmed by life, stress-related physical conditions, feeling alone, or a tendency to put your own needs last. I offer a safe and accepting space to explore who you really are, and what you need to survive and thrive in a world not designed for you.
My training specializes in couple and marriage therapy, including couples where ADHD or Autism is present.
Our relationships bring us the greatest joy and, at times, the deepest pain and struggle. Sometimes, all we can see is the hard, hard work of our relationships and the fun and joy is a distant memory. Perhaps it time for a reset.....time to create some new habits and practices that will help both partners experience their relationship as a mutually respectful partnership where they can both flourish.
My training specializes in couple and marriage therapy, including couples where ADHD or Autism is present.
Our relationships bring us the greatest joy and, at times, the deepest pain and struggle. Sometimes, all we can see is the hard, hard work of our relationships and the fun and joy is a distant memory. Perhaps it time for a reset.....time to create some new habits and practices that will help both partners experience their relationship as a mutually respectful partnership where they can both flourish.
New Earth Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7L
Our services include: individual therapy for children, youth and adults, couples and family therapy, naturopathic medicine, autism assessments and counselling, psychoeducational assessments and speech and language therapy.
We are a collective of holistic health practitioners who provide support for you through different areas of specialization and with different approaches. Our team currently consists of Registered Psychologists, Registered Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists, a Naturopathic Doctor and a Speech and Language Therapist. We work collaboratively to support you on your journey to health.
Our services include: individual therapy for children, youth and adults, couples and family therapy, naturopathic medicine, autism assessments and counselling, psychoeducational assessments and speech and language therapy.
We are a collective of holistic health practitioners who provide support for you through different areas of specialization and with different approaches. Our team currently consists of Registered Psychologists, Registered Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists, a Naturopathic Doctor and a Speech and Language Therapist. We work collaboratively to support you on your journey to health.
I am a Registered Doctoral Psychologist who provides child and adolescent assessments for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism, learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual delays, and other mental health disorders, such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. I also provide treatment for a range of childhood difficulties including: generalized anxiety, panic, OCD, trauma, depression, and emotional dysregulation.
I am a Registered Doctoral Psychologist who provides child and adolescent assessments for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism, learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual delays, and other mental health disorders, such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. I also provide treatment for a range of childhood difficulties including: generalized anxiety, panic, OCD, trauma, depression, and emotional dysregulation.
Emily Ritenburg
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K (Online Only)
I’m a queer, neurodivergent therapist who primarily works with adolescents, adults and those in both monogamous and non-monogamous relationships. I specialize in working with queer people exploring gender and sexuality, as well as people coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, disordered eating, ADHD and lower support/Level 1 autism. I’m sex positive, sex worker allied, kink and polyam affirming, and work to be anti-racist, anti-oppressive and decolonial in my practice. As a therapist, I'm often described as having a straight forward yet compassionate approach combined with a gentle sense of humour.
I’m a queer, neurodivergent therapist who primarily works with adolescents, adults and those in both monogamous and non-monogamous relationships. I specialize in working with queer people exploring gender and sexuality, as well as people coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, disordered eating, ADHD and lower support/Level 1 autism. I’m sex positive, sex worker allied, kink and polyam affirming, and work to be anti-racist, anti-oppressive and decolonial in my practice. As a therapist, I'm often described as having a straight forward yet compassionate approach combined with a gentle sense of humour.
Canada Online Therapy - Best Online Therapy Canada
Counsellor, RCT-C, MA, BHons
Verified Verified
Saskatoon, SK S7H (Online Only)
Canada Online Therapy works to offer the best online therapy in Canada. Canada Online Therapy provides childrens, adults, couples, group therapy in areas of anxiety, social anxiety, depression, post trauma, childhood trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, autism. Canada Online Therapy offers the best services in psychotherapy, counseling with consistent happy clients benefiting long term from short term intensive psychotherapy.
Canada Online Therapy works to offer the best online therapy in Canada. Canada Online Therapy provides childrens, adults, couples, group therapy in areas of anxiety, social anxiety, depression, post trauma, childhood trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, autism. Canada Online Therapy offers the best services in psychotherapy, counseling with consistent happy clients benefiting long term from short term intensive psychotherapy.
Accepting new clients for online therapy! Living with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence is hard. Getting through the overwhelm of everyday life feels impossible. You're starting to feel like all you think about is your condition and everything it has taken away from you - work, hobbies, sleep, relationships. Your family and friends don’t get it. They try to help and probably mean well, but sometimes the dismissive way they say things makes you feel worse. You try to hide your symptoms to seem “normal” but inside, you feel like you might break.
Accepting new clients for online therapy! Living with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence is hard. Getting through the overwhelm of everyday life feels impossible. You're starting to feel like all you think about is your condition and everything it has taken away from you - work, hobbies, sleep, relationships. Your family and friends don’t get it. They try to help and probably mean well, but sometimes the dismissive way they say things makes you feel worse. You try to hide your symptoms to seem “normal” but inside, you feel like you might break.
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Gavynn McKay
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7N (Online Only)
Pronouns: he/him or they/them. Reaching out can be difficult, but I am glad to see that you did. I am queer, transgender, autistic, and have ADHD. These intersecting identities shape my experiences and influence my therapy approach. I work with clients from Ontario and Saskatchewan. I aim to create a comfortable space for you to navigate your thoughts and emotions. As someone who has accessed mental health services, I know how important it is to feel heard by your therapist. Because of this, I work with you to ensure you are feeling effectively supported and comfortable. Social media: Tik Tok and Instagram: rainbowgalaxyocunselling
Pronouns: he/him or they/them. Reaching out can be difficult, but I am glad to see that you did. I am queer, transgender, autistic, and have ADHD. These intersecting identities shape my experiences and influence my therapy approach. I work with clients from Ontario and Saskatchewan. I aim to create a comfortable space for you to navigate your thoughts and emotions. As someone who has accessed mental health services, I know how important it is to feel heard by your therapist. Because of this, I work with you to ensure you are feeling effectively supported and comfortable. Social media: Tik Tok and Instagram: rainbowgalaxyocunselling
Stacey Huard Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RHN, BScN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and welcome! Life is messy, beautiful, enduring and at times intensely painful. My intention is to create a safe space for you to land, nourished with empathy and understanding. Many of us are reaching outside of ourselves for happiness or utilizing avoidance strategies to cope. As result, a void or level of fear that is often challenging to describe separates us from our inner joy. Although each individual I hold space for will speak this in their own unique way, I am here to assist you towards a more peaceful partnership with yourself, others and the world around you.
Hello, and welcome! Life is messy, beautiful, enduring and at times intensely painful. My intention is to create a safe space for you to land, nourished with empathy and understanding. Many of us are reaching outside of ourselves for happiness or utilizing avoidance strategies to cope. As result, a void or level of fear that is often challenging to describe separates us from our inner joy. Although each individual I hold space for will speak this in their own unique way, I am here to assist you towards a more peaceful partnership with yourself, others and the world around you.
As a clinical counselor I am committed to my client’s wellness and put their therapeutic journey at the forefront of my practice. I love meeting clients where they are at and helping them create a treatment plan suited to their goals. I use strength-based approaches founded with empirical evidence and often draw upon self-regulation strategies, CBT, and exposure and response prevention.I am passionate about using both holistic and strength-based approaches and working collaboratively with my clients to build lasting change.
As a clinical counselor I am committed to my client’s wellness and put their therapeutic journey at the forefront of my practice. I love meeting clients where they are at and helping them create a treatment plan suited to their goals. I use strength-based approaches founded with empirical evidence and often draw upon self-regulation strategies, CBT, and exposure and response prevention.I am passionate about using both holistic and strength-based approaches and working collaboratively with my clients to build lasting change.
Christa Shepherd Hills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Saskatoon, SK S7J
I work with people who feel stuck or overwhelmed. My clients want freedom from patterns in behaviour, emotions and relationships that keep them suffering and drain their energy. This can show up as anxiety or depression symptoms, relationship struggles, addictive behaviours (like overworking, compulsive eating or exercise), or physical symptoms (from chronic fatigue or pain to autoimmune conditions).
I work with people who feel stuck or overwhelmed. My clients want freedom from patterns in behaviour, emotions and relationships that keep them suffering and drain their energy. This can show up as anxiety or depression symptoms, relationship struggles, addictive behaviours (like overworking, compulsive eating or exercise), or physical symptoms (from chronic fatigue or pain to autoimmune conditions).
Aspire Too Counselling & Professional Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RPsych, CCC
Verified Verified
Saskatoon, SK S7M
Aspire Too is a well established firm with highly skilled and experienced therapists in the heart of the prairies. With our large team of therapists in multiple locations across Saskatchewan (Prince Albert, Melfort, Kindersley, Humboldt and Saskatoon), we are able to offer high quality services, both in-person and virtual, across the province and western Canada. We also provide service in several Indigenous communities as well as serve many organizations (private sector and public) and special groups and teams.
Aspire Too is a well established firm with highly skilled and experienced therapists in the heart of the prairies. With our large team of therapists in multiple locations across Saskatchewan (Prince Albert, Melfort, Kindersley, Humboldt and Saskatoon), we are able to offer high quality services, both in-person and virtual, across the province and western Canada. We also provide service in several Indigenous communities as well as serve many organizations (private sector and public) and special groups and teams.
Accepting new clients ages 5+. Sometimes life can throw us some curve balls and new challenges. That does not mean we must feel like we cannot overcome these new challenges. Hello there, My name is Oksana Zbitniff. I am a registered Social Worker and child, youth and adult counsellor. I meet my clients where they are in their therapeutic journey and best support them in meeting their therapeutic goals in a safe, free-of-judgment and positive way.
Accepting new clients ages 5+. Sometimes life can throw us some curve balls and new challenges. That does not mean we must feel like we cannot overcome these new challenges. Hello there, My name is Oksana Zbitniff. I am a registered Social Worker and child, youth and adult counsellor. I meet my clients where they are in their therapeutic journey and best support them in meeting their therapeutic goals in a safe, free-of-judgment and positive way.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in mental health and addiction counselling, I am deeply passionate about facilitating growth and healing for both youth and adults. Together, we'll embark on a journey of exploration and empowerment, fostering a safe and supportive environment for you to thrive. My approach is rooted in collaboration, where we work together to navigate challenges, uncover strengths, and cultivate resilience. I look forward to hearing from you.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in mental health and addiction counselling, I am deeply passionate about facilitating growth and healing for both youth and adults. Together, we'll embark on a journey of exploration and empowerment, fostering a safe and supportive environment for you to thrive. My approach is rooted in collaboration, where we work together to navigate challenges, uncover strengths, and cultivate resilience. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sara I Mancuso
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, HBASc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients! - Struggling with feelings like anxiety, guilt, or shame that are holding you back? Feeling overwhelmed by tough thoughts or past negative experiences? Is that inner voice being extra harsh on you? Whether it's mood swings, stress, trauma, grief, ADHD, or big life changes, I'm here to help you find your way. I strongly believe everyone has the power to turn challenges, tough experiences, and painful feelings into chances to grow and discover more about yourself. I hold a Masters of Counselling Psychology and I am an EMDR practitioner and I work with individuals and couples.
Accepting NEW Clients! - Struggling with feelings like anxiety, guilt, or shame that are holding you back? Feeling overwhelmed by tough thoughts or past negative experiences? Is that inner voice being extra harsh on you? Whether it's mood swings, stress, trauma, grief, ADHD, or big life changes, I'm here to help you find your way. I strongly believe everyone has the power to turn challenges, tough experiences, and painful feelings into chances to grow and discover more about yourself. I hold a Masters of Counselling Psychology and I am an EMDR practitioner and I work with individuals and couples.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Saskatoon, SK S7K (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.
Kimberly Blain
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to help you become a healthier and happier version of yourself. I am passionate about helping you navigate the many ups and downs that life offers. I am committed to creating a safe and accepting environment for you to be your true self, to heal, and to grow. I will walk alongside you to gain a better understanding of yourself in the context of your past and current environments. We will work together to further develop your knowledge, self awareness, and coping skills. These tools will allow for positive change in your self, and your life.
My goal is to help you become a healthier and happier version of yourself. I am passionate about helping you navigate the many ups and downs that life offers. I am committed to creating a safe and accepting environment for you to be your true self, to heal, and to grow. I will walk alongside you to gain a better understanding of yourself in the context of your past and current environments. We will work together to further develop your knowledge, self awareness, and coping skills. These tools will allow for positive change in your self, and your life.
Though I am trained to support you wherever life has brought you, I specialize in working with those who are walking through medical trauma, grief and loss, bullying, self esteem challenges, family systems, and boundary work. I work with children, teens, and adults, and I also have extensive experience in supporting clients who experience disabilities.
Though I am trained to support you wherever life has brought you, I specialize in working with those who are walking through medical trauma, grief and loss, bullying, self esteem challenges, family systems, and boundary work. I work with children, teens, and adults, and I also have extensive experience in supporting clients who experience disabilities.
Healing Waters Counselling Studio
Counsellor, CSAC, BSW, MSc, CBT
Verified Verified
Saskatoon, SK S7K
Feel like you are living your life on auto-pilot? Tired of juggling life's problems and feeling stressed? Self-doubt holding you hostage? I will work with you to help gain control over your life and empower your self-confidence to create a life worth living to its fullest. As a result of working with me, clients have gained clarity, improved relationships, became sober, increased communication and created a life they were meant to have. They became HAPPY! I work with clients in ways that build on their strengths and potentials and I challenge them to take their life to the next level.
Feel like you are living your life on auto-pilot? Tired of juggling life's problems and feeling stressed? Self-doubt holding you hostage? I will work with you to help gain control over your life and empower your self-confidence to create a life worth living to its fullest. As a result of working with me, clients have gained clarity, improved relationships, became sober, increased communication and created a life they were meant to have. They became HAPPY! I work with clients in ways that build on their strengths and potentials and I challenge them to take their life to the next level.
Phoenix Hourie
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saskatoon, SK S7K (Online Only)
I am a two spirit, non binary, Red River Métis counsellor providing virtual counselling services to those in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In my practice, I aim to provide services that are non-judgemental and centre your unique experiences and needs. I draw from a variety of therapeutic frameworks such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Strengths-based models, harm reduction, and Expressive Arts Therapies. I believe relationship building is key for effective counselling, and strive to foster relationships that feel safe, empowering, and affirming.
I am a two spirit, non binary, Red River Métis counsellor providing virtual counselling services to those in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In my practice, I aim to provide services that are non-judgemental and centre your unique experiences and needs. I draw from a variety of therapeutic frameworks such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Strengths-based models, harm reduction, and Expressive Arts Therapies. I believe relationship building is key for effective counselling, and strive to foster relationships that feel safe, empowering, and affirming.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. Does life feel heavy lately? Are you experiencing grief or loss? Have you been recently diagnosed with a mental or physical health condition/diagnosis that you want to process or learn more about? Do you ever feel overwhelmed with life? Are you experiencing conflict within your relationships (romantic, friendships or family)? Have you experienced trauma in your lifetime? Are you going through a major life transition (career change, "empty nest", etc.)? Are you struggling with your sexual or gender identity? Those questions and their answers are just some of reasons people seek out counselling with me.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. Does life feel heavy lately? Are you experiencing grief or loss? Have you been recently diagnosed with a mental or physical health condition/diagnosis that you want to process or learn more about? Do you ever feel overwhelmed with life? Are you experiencing conflict within your relationships (romantic, friendships or family)? Have you experienced trauma in your lifetime? Are you going through a major life transition (career change, "empty nest", etc.)? Are you struggling with your sexual or gender identity? Those questions and their answers are just some of reasons people seek out counselling with me.
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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.