Autism Counselling in Buxton
![Photo of Alex Blood - Derbyshire Music Therapy, MA, HCPC-Music Therap., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d69b6db4-f899-4335-a694-be1cace84c3a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialise in SEND and young people diagnosed with autism/ASD.
Hi, I'm Alex. I am a Pyschodynamic Music Therapist working across Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Derby. Music Therapy is a regulated psychological clinical intervention, which is delivered by masters level trained, HCPC registered Music Therapists. It can help people whose lives have been affected by illness, injury, mental health or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs. It is especially appropriate for people who have difficulty articulating feelings or experiences verbally, either due to speech and language problems or simply because words are hard to find.
I also specialise in SEND and young people diagnosed with autism/ASD.
Hi, I'm Alex. I am a Pyschodynamic Music Therapist working across Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Derby. Music Therapy is a regulated psychological clinical intervention, which is delivered by masters level trained, HCPC registered Music Therapists. It can help people whose lives have been affected by illness, injury, mental health or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs. It is especially appropriate for people who have difficulty articulating feelings or experiences verbally, either due to speech and language problems or simply because words are hard to find.
![Photo of Katherine Louise Hildyard, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2ac3058-2c21-40ca-914b-2670fe9e71f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Louise Hildyard
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buxton SK17
You might have always felt a bit different, like somehow you don’t ‘fit in’. People seeking an assessment might often feel very socially anxious or worry a lot about their social interactions. Maybe you feel more sensitive to your environment than other people and at times overwhelmed, overloaded and exhausted by the demands of everyday life. You might also have noticed strengths that your ‘difference’ brings- being able to ‘hyper’ focus, having dedicated interests and passions or strong values such as a concern for truth and social justice. Do you know or want to discover if you are Autistic or have ADHD?
You might have always felt a bit different, like somehow you don’t ‘fit in’. People seeking an assessment might often feel very socially anxious or worry a lot about their social interactions. Maybe you feel more sensitive to your environment than other people and at times overwhelmed, overloaded and exhausted by the demands of everyday life. You might also have noticed strengths that your ‘difference’ brings- being able to ‘hyper’ focus, having dedicated interests and passions or strong values such as a concern for truth and social justice. Do you know or want to discover if you are Autistic or have ADHD?
![Photo of Dawn Elizabeth Pierce - New Dawn New Days, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e16f3d20-1756-416a-9834-2da92087d442/1/320x400.png)
We offer an affordable counselling service where we support clients who are experiencing a range of issues such as Anxiety, Depression & Relationship issues. All clients referring themselves to our services are offered a free 30 minute initial assessment call. These calls are completed by an experienced member of our team who will be able to answer any questions or concerns you have about accessing Counselling.
We offer an affordable counselling service where we support clients who are experiencing a range of issues such as Anxiety, Depression & Relationship issues. All clients referring themselves to our services are offered a free 30 minute initial assessment call. These calls are completed by an experienced member of our team who will be able to answer any questions or concerns you have about accessing Counselling.
![Photo of Helen Joy Green, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c012f908-7d08-4c43-b498-ce4ac5027025/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome, We all deserve a helping hand. Someone to lead us through the dark times. I believe I can offer this, by sharing my 16 years of practice, which has provided me with a vast experience/knowledge of working with adults, couples and young people. My passion is in the belief that we have the ability to grow and reach our potential. I work with compassion, genuineness and have a real passion for the effectiveness of the counselling process. I am a highly a sensitive person which helps me to empathise with others deeply. I value indifference and work in a non judgemental way.
Hello and welcome, We all deserve a helping hand. Someone to lead us through the dark times. I believe I can offer this, by sharing my 16 years of practice, which has provided me with a vast experience/knowledge of working with adults, couples and young people. My passion is in the belief that we have the ability to grow and reach our potential. I work with compassion, genuineness and have a real passion for the effectiveness of the counselling process. I am a highly a sensitive person which helps me to empathise with others deeply. I value indifference and work in a non judgemental way.
More Therapists Nearby
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the NHS and private sector. I specialise in supporting the families of neurodiverse children and young people to understand their differences, to develop better relationships and to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. Clinical services include: neurodevelopmental & family assessment; autism assessment; ADHD assessment; assessment of intellectual ability; and brief neurodevelopmental intervention. I offer most of these services online for clients throughout the UK. For more information about my services, fees and cinical approach, please visit www.vicandas.com
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the NHS and private sector. I specialise in supporting the families of neurodiverse children and young people to understand their differences, to develop better relationships and to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. Clinical services include: neurodevelopmental & family assessment; autism assessment; ADHD assessment; assessment of intellectual ability; and brief neurodevelopmental intervention. I offer most of these services online for clients throughout the UK. For more information about my services, fees and cinical approach, please visit www.vicandas.com
![Photo of Alexandra Leedham - Autism Unpicked: Assessment (child and adult 7-25), HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dbac8f4-37de-4ada-a102-ee94d5d0db9b/1/320x400.png)
Autism Unpicked: Assessment (child and adult 7-25)
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4
Autism Unpicked primarily offer neuroaffirmative private Autism assessment for children and young adults aged 7-25 in Sheffield, South Yorks (e.g. Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley), Derbyshire and Notts. Assessments will be online/by phone and in person for the direct element of the assessment (more details on our website - www.autismunpicked.co.uk). We are a team of specialist qualified clinicians (Clinical Psychologists and Specialist Speech and Language Therapists) trained and experienced in assessing people for Autism.
Autism Unpicked primarily offer neuroaffirmative private Autism assessment for children and young adults aged 7-25 in Sheffield, South Yorks (e.g. Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley), Derbyshire and Notts. Assessments will be online/by phone and in person for the direct element of the assessment (more details on our website - www.autismunpicked.co.uk). We are a team of specialist qualified clinicians (Clinical Psychologists and Specialist Speech and Language Therapists) trained and experienced in assessing people for Autism.
![Photo of Sian Alexandra Spencer-Bray - Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic (TLC), MSc, COSRT General, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22dd071a-243a-4a94-9328-fa424b7703c9/1/320x400.png)
Sex therapy, CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic counselling, couples therapy, child therapy (11+), person-centred counselling, trauma focused therapy and Autism assessments.
TLC is a clinic of experienced and highly qualified professionals working towards helping you better yourself. We work with individuals, couples and groups to offer a confidential service where clients can discuss sensitive issues with no judgement. Sian’s (the founder) career has been namely in mental health and sexual health, two areas which she is hugely passionate about. At TLC we work with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, bereavement, stress, bullying, low self-esteem, relationships and offer Autism assessments, to name a few. All our professionals are registered with COSRT, BABCP, BACP, HCPC or BPS.
Sex therapy, CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic counselling, couples therapy, child therapy (11+), person-centred counselling, trauma focused therapy and Autism assessments.
TLC is a clinic of experienced and highly qualified professionals working towards helping you better yourself. We work with individuals, couples and groups to offer a confidential service where clients can discuss sensitive issues with no judgement. Sian’s (the founder) career has been namely in mental health and sexual health, two areas which she is hugely passionate about. At TLC we work with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, bereavement, stress, bullying, low self-esteem, relationships and offer Autism assessments, to name a few. All our professionals are registered with COSRT, BABCP, BACP, HCPC or BPS.
![Photo of Myszka Fox, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/224ebb52-d6c3-43cc-a903-1ae61c439f92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is individual, not off the peg… When we feel that those around us do not understand us, or do not accept us, it can feel like a lonely, uphill struggle. I have a long-held interest in what makes us all tick, and the strategies that we can access to better manage the ups and downs in our lives. It has become evident to me, through many life changes, that we work much better together than we do alone.
Therapy is individual, not off the peg… When we feel that those around us do not understand us, or do not accept us, it can feel like a lonely, uphill struggle. I have a long-held interest in what makes us all tick, and the strategies that we can access to better manage the ups and downs in our lives. It has become evident to me, through many life changes, that we work much better together than we do alone.
![Photo of Francis Schoeman, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/869f05a9-6a78-4481-a7f1-d31c7b294035/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Pawsitive Psychology, I don't just listen, I connect. I strongly believe the most impactful healing comes from within the therapeutic relationship.
At Pawsitive Psychology, I don't just listen, I connect. I strongly believe the most impactful healing comes from within the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Chloe Hallatt, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27d3d3d5-2123-486b-9666-70966e19d950/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Chloe. I live in Derbyshire with my partner and dog, enjoy exploring the countryside and drinking coffee with friends. I have a small practice in Belper (Derbyshire) as well as online. As the client, I will treat you as the expert on yourself, as no-one else knows exactly what it’s like to be you. Some of my clients I am currently working with, are exploring topics such as: bereavement, anxiety, work-related stress, sexuality, neurodiversity and relationships. I love working with clients to explore power and have noticed lots of clients exploring themes of finding their voice in therapy and establishing boundaries.
Hi, I'm Chloe. I live in Derbyshire with my partner and dog, enjoy exploring the countryside and drinking coffee with friends. I have a small practice in Belper (Derbyshire) as well as online. As the client, I will treat you as the expert on yourself, as no-one else knows exactly what it’s like to be you. Some of my clients I am currently working with, are exploring topics such as: bereavement, anxiety, work-related stress, sexuality, neurodiversity and relationships. I love working with clients to explore power and have noticed lots of clients exploring themes of finding their voice in therapy and establishing boundaries.
![Photo of Kirsty Turner, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3546fa2c-96ef-4464-b3d7-459e6a555d8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
At times, we can feel overwhelmed by the events and demands facing us. Life can feel daunting, and we can lose trust in ourselves to find a way forward. We can neglect ourselves and ignore areas of our lives that are painful. We may notice beliefs and habits we are stuck with that are holding us back from living life fully. Psychotherapy can help unravel the patterns we are caught in. Learning to pay attention to ourselves in a supportive space can help us to shift our perspective and find new directions. We can develop a compassionate relationship with ourselves that will help generate new energy to overcome our obstacles.
At times, we can feel overwhelmed by the events and demands facing us. Life can feel daunting, and we can lose trust in ourselves to find a way forward. We can neglect ourselves and ignore areas of our lives that are painful. We may notice beliefs and habits we are stuck with that are holding us back from living life fully. Psychotherapy can help unravel the patterns we are caught in. Learning to pay attention to ourselves in a supportive space can help us to shift our perspective and find new directions. We can develop a compassionate relationship with ourselves that will help generate new energy to overcome our obstacles.
![Photo of Debra Newton, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edcaca49-91ba-427c-a98d-ac06bc489cc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello my name is Debra. Would you like a quiet and relaxed space where you can begin to explore whatever is on your mind. I am committed to providing confidentiality and empathy in a non-judgmental and safe environment to help you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences and feel empowered in your chosen way forward. Counselling can help with many problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, disability, life stages, changes and adjustments and help with self-esteem and confidence feelings and other personal issues. I qualified as a Counsellor in 2003 and work in a person centred way.
Hello my name is Debra. Would you like a quiet and relaxed space where you can begin to explore whatever is on your mind. I am committed to providing confidentiality and empathy in a non-judgmental and safe environment to help you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences and feel empowered in your chosen way forward. Counselling can help with many problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, disability, life stages, changes and adjustments and help with self-esteem and confidence feelings and other personal issues. I qualified as a Counsellor in 2003 and work in a person centred way.
![Photo of Diane Earl, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/473d3098-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all struggle to make sense of experiences at times, for example, when our life is in transition as we are leaving home or taking on new caring responsibilities. As a counsellor I can offer the opportunity to talk in confidence. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years and have trained as a social worker as well as a counsellor. Social networks and our sense of connection, can contribute to our emotional resilience and ability to face life's challenges. I can help you find a broader perspective and your own way forward.
We all struggle to make sense of experiences at times, for example, when our life is in transition as we are leaving home or taking on new caring responsibilities. As a counsellor I can offer the opportunity to talk in confidence. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years and have trained as a social worker as well as a counsellor. Social networks and our sense of connection, can contribute to our emotional resilience and ability to face life's challenges. I can help you find a broader perspective and your own way forward.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Sarah Griffiths, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1db55df-93e6-4d4f-ae96-d9d3eb901e26/2/320x400.png)
Life can be chaotic, and messy; but we don't have to navigate its challenges alone. I believe in meeting people where they are, as they are - whatever that may look like. Exploring and embracing the unique way we all work, and the challenge of finding what we need to thrive, is at the heart of my approach. I work with a range of human beings experiencing a wide array of concerns. I work with ADHD and Autism, anxiety, self esteem, identity, relationship and communication issues - but this is by no means an exhaustive list. My interest in neurodiversity is in part driven by the discovery in adulthood that I am neurodivergent myself.
Life can be chaotic, and messy; but we don't have to navigate its challenges alone. I believe in meeting people where they are, as they are - whatever that may look like. Exploring and embracing the unique way we all work, and the challenge of finding what we need to thrive, is at the heart of my approach. I work with a range of human beings experiencing a wide array of concerns. I work with ADHD and Autism, anxiety, self esteem, identity, relationship and communication issues - but this is by no means an exhaustive list. My interest in neurodiversity is in part driven by the discovery in adulthood that I am neurodivergent myself.
![Photo of Christopher Morris, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f49f276-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a great deal of experience or working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as those living with varying mental health conditions such as Bipolar, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello, I'm Christopher, a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with, Adults, Children & Young People and Couples in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire. As a Humanistic Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to achieve their fullest potential. Anyone who is struggling with a personal concern can seek counselling. No issue is too big or too small to ask for support. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, when they need it. Therefore, I work with clients of all ages, from 4 years old and upwards. I also offer discounted rates in certain circumstances.
I have a great deal of experience or working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as those living with varying mental health conditions such as Bipolar, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello, I'm Christopher, a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with, Adults, Children & Young People and Couples in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire. As a Humanistic Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to achieve their fullest potential. Anyone who is struggling with a personal concern can seek counselling. No issue is too big or too small to ask for support. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, when they need it. Therefore, I work with clients of all ages, from 4 years old and upwards. I also offer discounted rates in certain circumstances.
![Photo of Lisa Weston - Neuro Coral Psychology; Autism & ADHD specialists, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/218c7046-80c8-4dce-9104-1504aff4f300/1/320x400.png)
Neuro Coral Psychology; Autism & ADHD specialists
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saint Neots PE19
Hello! I'm Dr Lisa Weston, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist leading a small team of experienced clinicians. We offer Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disability diagnostic assessments and support sessions for children, young people and adults, in Cambridgeshire and beyond. We are skilled in assessing features of neurodivergence which are often missed, including in girls and women or those who may mask their differences. Having previously worked in an NHS diagnostic assessment service, I recognise how important it is for people to have a positive experience of their assessment and post diagnostic support.
Hello! I'm Dr Lisa Weston, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist leading a small team of experienced clinicians. We offer Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disability diagnostic assessments and support sessions for children, young people and adults, in Cambridgeshire and beyond. We are skilled in assessing features of neurodivergence which are often missed, including in girls and women or those who may mask their differences. Having previously worked in an NHS diagnostic assessment service, I recognise how important it is for people to have a positive experience of their assessment and post diagnostic support.
![Photo of Sarah Tomlinson, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f2c62fc-a2a6-422f-97a6-01a711142a1a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced senior clinical psychologist who is able to work with any adults, but specialises in autism (diagnosis and post-diagnostic support), learning disabilities and trauma. I have 17 years post-doctoral experience and have worked for the NHS for this period. I am HCPC registered, and am accredited by the National Autistic Society. My therapeutic models include EMDR, DBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I work privately on Mondays, but from August I will work Fridays also (online or central Manchester). I offer reasonable rates for autism assessments. I am NICE guidance compliant and very experienced in this area.
I am an experienced senior clinical psychologist who is able to work with any adults, but specialises in autism (diagnosis and post-diagnostic support), learning disabilities and trauma. I have 17 years post-doctoral experience and have worked for the NHS for this period. I am HCPC registered, and am accredited by the National Autistic Society. My therapeutic models include EMDR, DBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I work privately on Mondays, but from August I will work Fridays also (online or central Manchester). I offer reasonable rates for autism assessments. I am NICE guidance compliant and very experienced in this area.
![Photo of Julie Arnold, DCounsPsych, BACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ba3027a-2257-433b-9e01-50e91191fd69/1/320x400.png)
I have professional and personal experience, working with autism and neurodiversity.
Hello, I work with a range of issues, including anxiety and depression. Being heard and accepted for being who you truly are, can feel incredibly empowering. When this is taken away, our thoughts can trigger unhelpful behaviours, increasing low mood. Which in turn can play havoc with our emotions. When we feel lonely and isolated, overwhelming feelings can flood our thoughts and fears. I can offer you a safe, warm, and confidential space to explore any issues that may contribute towards your anxiety and depression. I am here to listen to you in an non-judgemental way, and to support you with any changes you wish to make.
I have professional and personal experience, working with autism and neurodiversity.
Hello, I work with a range of issues, including anxiety and depression. Being heard and accepted for being who you truly are, can feel incredibly empowering. When this is taken away, our thoughts can trigger unhelpful behaviours, increasing low mood. Which in turn can play havoc with our emotions. When we feel lonely and isolated, overwhelming feelings can flood our thoughts and fears. I can offer you a safe, warm, and confidential space to explore any issues that may contribute towards your anxiety and depression. I am here to listen to you in an non-judgemental way, and to support you with any changes you wish to make.
![Photo of Lindsay Adams, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21a63fe8-39b1-4f60-8a07-a3bf40d670a3/2/320x400.png)
As a psychotherapist specializing in child therapy, I’ve worked extensively with children in school settings, addressing anxiety, low mood, school avoidance, ADHD, autism, domestic violence, and bereavement.
I specialize in working with clients who, despite their busy pursuit of success, feel overwhelmed by their emotions and struggle under the weight of their painful pasts. I provide a safe, calm, and creative space to process feelings amidst hectic lives. In our sessions, we explore the causes of emotional distress, identify patterns holding you back, and work through past experiences impacting your present. Using traditional therapeutic techniques and creative methods, I help you reconnect with your true self, and to support you with healing, fostering resilience, clarity, and a more balanced, meaningful life.
As a psychotherapist specializing in child therapy, I’ve worked extensively with children in school settings, addressing anxiety, low mood, school avoidance, ADHD, autism, domestic violence, and bereavement.
I specialize in working with clients who, despite their busy pursuit of success, feel overwhelmed by their emotions and struggle under the weight of their painful pasts. I provide a safe, calm, and creative space to process feelings amidst hectic lives. In our sessions, we explore the causes of emotional distress, identify patterns holding you back, and work through past experiences impacting your present. Using traditional therapeutic techniques and creative methods, I help you reconnect with your true self, and to support you with healing, fostering resilience, clarity, and a more balanced, meaningful life.
![Photo of Catherine Healy, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6cd586-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have undertaken additional training in specialised areas of working with autism, schizophrenia/psychosis, personality disorders, OCD, attachment and infant loss to name just a few.
Specialist cognitive behavioural and integrative psychotherapy solutions for children, young people and adults - WCPS is run by me, Cat Healy, a therapist who works with a fresh and imaginative approach to psychotherapy. At the heart of therapy is the relationship between you; the client, and me; the therapist. When we work together, we can achieve. I have worked in the mental health arena for 14 years and have a high level of expertise in mental health and child development. Previously worked as a locum senior mental health practitioner and therapist for CAMHS. I am a university lecturer teaching CBT and psychotherapy.
I have undertaken additional training in specialised areas of working with autism, schizophrenia/psychosis, personality disorders, OCD, attachment and infant loss to name just a few.
Specialist cognitive behavioural and integrative psychotherapy solutions for children, young people and adults - WCPS is run by me, Cat Healy, a therapist who works with a fresh and imaginative approach to psychotherapy. At the heart of therapy is the relationship between you; the client, and me; the therapist. When we work together, we can achieve. I have worked in the mental health arena for 14 years and have a high level of expertise in mental health and child development. Previously worked as a locum senior mental health practitioner and therapist for CAMHS. I am a university lecturer teaching CBT and psychotherapy.
See more therapy options for Buxton
Nearby Autism Counsellors Searches for Buxton
- Alfreton
- Ashbourne
- Belper
- Chesterfield
- Congleton
- Derby
- Hope Valley
- Macclesfield
- Mackworth
- Matlock
- Stoke-on-Trent
- Stone
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.