Autism Counselling in Grantham

Photo of Claire Wakeham, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Claire Wakeham
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
I understand how hard it can be to choose the right therapist for you. The decision to reach out for help and seek therapy can be tough enough alone. Sometimes we face struggles in life leaving us feeling stuck or overwhelmed and need help in finding our way. My aim is to offer you a confidential, warm, and safe space to explore your reasons for seeking therapy. I have experience working in different settings including a college and a sexual abuse charity. Gaining particular experience working with neurodivergence such as autism and ADHD and LGBTQIA+ related issues. Along also sexual assault, rape, shame and complex trauma.
I understand how hard it can be to choose the right therapist for you. The decision to reach out for help and seek therapy can be tough enough alone. Sometimes we face struggles in life leaving us feeling stuck or overwhelmed and need help in finding our way. My aim is to offer you a confidential, warm, and safe space to explore your reasons for seeking therapy. I have experience working in different settings including a college and a sexual abuse charity. Gaining particular experience working with neurodivergence such as autism and ADHD and LGBTQIA+ related issues. Along also sexual assault, rape, shame and complex trauma.
01636 555740 View 01636 555740
Photo of Marie Morgan - Lead The Way Counselling , MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lead The Way Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
I am an experienced NCPS accredited Counsellor Psychotherapist offering both short and long term therapy. I specialise in working with trauma and offer a confidential, non-judgemental, empathic safe space in which adults, children and young people can explore, express and acknowledge what's going on in their life both past and present. I have a relaxed, nurturing and laid back approach which helps in allowing my clients to feel relaxed and safe, and vital for working in depth on issues such as historical trauma, sexual, physical and psychological abuse which require a strong therapeutic connection and trust.
I am an experienced NCPS accredited Counsellor Psychotherapist offering both short and long term therapy. I specialise in working with trauma and offer a confidential, non-judgemental, empathic safe space in which adults, children and young people can explore, express and acknowledge what's going on in their life both past and present. I have a relaxed, nurturing and laid back approach which helps in allowing my clients to feel relaxed and safe, and vital for working in depth on issues such as historical trauma, sexual, physical and psychological abuse which require a strong therapeutic connection and trust.
01476 852956 View 01476 852956
Photo of Elisabeth Joselyn - Physis Counselling and Psychotherapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Physis Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
Hi my name is Lizzie, How are you feeling? unhappy, anxious, stressed, angry or depressed, or is there something specific you feel you would like to talk about. Life can be difficult and overwhelming, we sometimes struggle to make sense of our feelings and what is going on for us. We can get stuck and not know how to make life more comfortable. Although that first step can be nerve wracking and sometimes difficult, Counselling can be that first step to making that positive change. This is your time for you, to be listened to and understood and have the the world seen from your perspective, at a pace that is comfortable for you.
Hi my name is Lizzie, How are you feeling? unhappy, anxious, stressed, angry or depressed, or is there something specific you feel you would like to talk about. Life can be difficult and overwhelming, we sometimes struggle to make sense of our feelings and what is going on for us. We can get stuck and not know how to make life more comfortable. Although that first step can be nerve wracking and sometimes difficult, Counselling can be that first step to making that positive change. This is your time for you, to be listened to and understood and have the the world seen from your perspective, at a pace that is comfortable for you.
01636 558782 View 01636 558782
Photo of Elizabeth Hicks - Elizabeth Hicks Therapy, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Elizabeth Hicks Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Grantham NG33  (Online Only)
Navigating around life, work, family, relationships, sex and intimacy, most of us at some point will find ourselves in a situation where we might benefit from some extra support. I work with individuals, couples and families with both a relational and individual focus. I am qualified Psychosexual & Relationship therapist. Alongside my Private Practice, I have previously worked with Relate, the NHS, Hospices and a Sexual Assault Support Centre. I also work with sex addiction (including support for partners and families). I have an approachable, warm & empathic approach and clients feed back that they find this incredibly helpful.
Navigating around life, work, family, relationships, sex and intimacy, most of us at some point will find ourselves in a situation where we might benefit from some extra support. I work with individuals, couples and families with both a relational and individual focus. I am qualified Psychosexual & Relationship therapist. Alongside my Private Practice, I have previously worked with Relate, the NHS, Hospices and a Sexual Assault Support Centre. I also work with sex addiction (including support for partners and families). I have an approachable, warm & empathic approach and clients feed back that they find this incredibly helpful.
01522 440418 View 01522 440418
Photo of Monica Beck, MSc
Monica Beck
MSc
Verified Verified
Grantham NG32
I am driven by a strong passion for helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. With expertise in both executive function coaching and CBT, I am committed to providing comprehensive support to empower my clients in their personal and professional lives. If you're seeking guidance in improving your executive functioning skills or addressing psychological challenges with evidence-based therapy, I invite you to reach out to me. Together, we can work towards achieving your personal and professional goals. I look forward to supporting you on your journey.
I am driven by a strong passion for helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. With expertise in both executive function coaching and CBT, I am committed to providing comprehensive support to empower my clients in their personal and professional lives. If you're seeking guidance in improving your executive functioning skills or addressing psychological challenges with evidence-based therapy, I invite you to reach out to me. Together, we can work towards achieving your personal and professional goals. I look forward to supporting you on your journey.
01476 851696 View 01476 851696
Photo of Karen Shaw, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Shaw
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
Do you want somewhere safe to talk? Are you troubled by traumatic memories? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety and/or stress? Would you like to improve your confidence & self-esteem and feel happier? Hello, I am Karen, a fully qualified, BACP Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. I consider myself to be warm, caring, non-judgmental, sensitive and supportive. I am a LGBTQ+ ally and have experience of working with neurodiverse clients. I am skilled in helping people to improve their self-esteem, manage anxiety and depression, and to create more satisfying relationships with themselves and others.
Do you want somewhere safe to talk? Are you troubled by traumatic memories? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety and/or stress? Would you like to improve your confidence & self-esteem and feel happier? Hello, I am Karen, a fully qualified, BACP Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. I consider myself to be warm, caring, non-judgmental, sensitive and supportive. I am a LGBTQ+ ally and have experience of working with neurodiverse clients. I am skilled in helping people to improve their self-esteem, manage anxiety and depression, and to create more satisfying relationships with themselves and others.
01476 852639 View 01476 852639
Photo of Joanne Wilsher-Mills - JWM Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
JWM Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
Are you feeling overwhelmed with difficult feelings? Have you been through a bereavement or loss that you're struggling to come to terms with? Have you experienced painful and traumatic life events that still impact on you today and stop you living the life you want. Would you like to improve your relationships with the people in your life? You may be struggling with issues life anxiety, depression or low self-worth. My focus is to offer a counselling relationship that is supportive, nurturing and empowering. I can offer practical coping strategies, better insight and understanding as well as help you find your own solutions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with difficult feelings? Have you been through a bereavement or loss that you're struggling to come to terms with? Have you experienced painful and traumatic life events that still impact on you today and stop you living the life you want. Would you like to improve your relationships with the people in your life? You may be struggling with issues life anxiety, depression or low self-worth. My focus is to offer a counselling relationship that is supportive, nurturing and empowering. I can offer practical coping strategies, better insight and understanding as well as help you find your own solutions.
01529 400960 View 01529 400960
Photo of Melisa Claire Griffiths - Inclusive Counselling & Psychotherapy, DCounsPsych, Psychotherapist
Inclusive Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
Maybe you feel confused, sad, numb, guilty, ashamed, lost, alone or anxious, with no clear idea of where to turn. Do you need understanding or, empathic support whilst you work through loss, anxiety, negative thoughts and behaviour, relationship problems, or natural life transition and personal crisis? I can help you. I whole heartedly understand how difficult sharing emotions can be, but allow me to reassure you that together we can find different or new ways of understanding your problems by discovering new insights/empowerment/self acceptance & resilience.
Maybe you feel confused, sad, numb, guilty, ashamed, lost, alone or anxious, with no clear idea of where to turn. Do you need understanding or, empathic support whilst you work through loss, anxiety, negative thoughts and behaviour, relationship problems, or natural life transition and personal crisis? I can help you. I whole heartedly understand how difficult sharing emotions can be, but allow me to reassure you that together we can find different or new ways of understanding your problems by discovering new insights/empowerment/self acceptance & resilience.
01529 404439 View 01529 404439

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Benn, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Lisa Benn
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over two decades experience working with adults and children to maximise their wellbeing. I have worked in many different healthcare settings and have a depth and breadth of knowledge and skills working with all aspects of mental health (depression, anxiety, PTSD and dissociation). I have worked in learning disability for several years and assess LD and autism in adults.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over two decades experience working with adults and children to maximise their wellbeing. I have worked in many different healthcare settings and have a depth and breadth of knowledge and skills working with all aspects of mental health (depression, anxiety, PTSD and dissociation). I have worked in learning disability for several years and assess LD and autism in adults.
01943 662111 View 01943 662111
Photo of Brendan James Dunlop - Rainbow Junction Therapy, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rainbow Junction Therapy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M28  (Online Only)
Hi there! Welcome to Rainbow Junction Therapy - a specialist therapy service for all LGBTQ+ people. We offer bespoke and adapted psychological therapy to children, teens, young people, adults and older adults from the LGBTQ+ communities. We have specialist practitioners that work with gender dysphoria/incongruence, bisexual mental health, family planning, mood difficulties, ADHD, Autism, self-harmful behaviours, and much more. We have three core therapy pillars: 1) knowledgeable and experienced therapists, 2) safe and empowering therapy and 3) always intersectional therapy - which fully centres your needs and goals.
Hi there! Welcome to Rainbow Junction Therapy - a specialist therapy service for all LGBTQ+ people. We offer bespoke and adapted psychological therapy to children, teens, young people, adults and older adults from the LGBTQ+ communities. We have specialist practitioners that work with gender dysphoria/incongruence, bisexual mental health, family planning, mood difficulties, ADHD, Autism, self-harmful behaviours, and much more. We have three core therapy pillars: 1) knowledgeable and experienced therapists, 2) safe and empowering therapy and 3) always intersectional therapy - which fully centres your needs and goals.
0161 524 4239 View 0161 524 4239
Photo of Susan ( Suki ) Heath, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Susan ( Suki ) Heath
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bishop's Stortford CM23
Much of my work is with people suffering from very early trauma, creative artists such as writers, actors and musicians, and undiagnosed processing issues - dyslexia, autism and ADD or ADHD for instance.
Jungian psychotherapy, sometimes known as depth psychology, is a form of deep reflection. It isn't problem centred but it does help to resolve deep rooted problems. The things that affect our waking life may be hidden from consciousness and experienced as a bewildering array of symptoms that appear to have no obvious cause. To complicate matters, these symptoms may be emotional, psychological or physical. Jung viewed symptoms not as problems to be fixed, but as signposts pointing to the need for change. I work on the basis that our minds and bodies have a natural drive towards healing.
Much of my work is with people suffering from very early trauma, creative artists such as writers, actors and musicians, and undiagnosed processing issues - dyslexia, autism and ADD or ADHD for instance.
Jungian psychotherapy, sometimes known as depth psychology, is a form of deep reflection. It isn't problem centred but it does help to resolve deep rooted problems. The things that affect our waking life may be hidden from consciousness and experienced as a bewildering array of symptoms that appear to have no obvious cause. To complicate matters, these symptoms may be emotional, psychological or physical. Jung viewed symptoms not as problems to be fixed, but as signposts pointing to the need for change. I work on the basis that our minds and bodies have a natural drive towards healing.
01279 594649 View 01279 594649
Photo of Adele Parker, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Adele Parker
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Wetherby LS23
Furthermore, I co-ordinate an autism assessment & follow-up service (4 to 17 yrs).
My name is Adele & I've been working as Clinical Psychologist for over 16 years. I am trained to treat a range of psychological difficulties using a diverse set of therapeutic techniques. I work across the age range from young children to adults, working with a wide range of psychological difficulties. I also manage a wider team and I'm the managing director of Northern Clinical Psychology Services (please see my website www.ncps-uk.com for more details). My ultimate goal is to offer a 'gold' standard service & in doing so help to reduce psychological distress whilst enhancing & promoting well-being & quality of life.
Furthermore, I co-ordinate an autism assessment & follow-up service (4 to 17 yrs).
My name is Adele & I've been working as Clinical Psychologist for over 16 years. I am trained to treat a range of psychological difficulties using a diverse set of therapeutic techniques. I work across the age range from young children to adults, working with a wide range of psychological difficulties. I also manage a wider team and I'm the managing director of Northern Clinical Psychology Services (please see my website www.ncps-uk.com for more details). My ultimate goal is to offer a 'gold' standard service & in doing so help to reduce psychological distress whilst enhancing & promoting well-being & quality of life.
01937 229449 View 01937 229449
Photo of Tracy Ann Richardson, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Tracy Ann Richardson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Market Weighton YO43
I can offer autism diagnostic assessments and/or psychological therapy personalised to your own needs and strengths.
My name is Dr Tracy Ann Richardson and I run Wolds Psychology Ltd. I have worked as a Clinical Psychologist providing psychological therapy for over ten years. I have particular expertise in working with psychological trauma and am an accredited EMDR practitioner. Sometimes we don’t know what is causing us to feel distressed and I can help explore with you what is going on for you and work with you to find a way through this. I also have extensive experience in working with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, anger, relational difficulties, emotional regulation or interpersonal difficulties.
I can offer autism diagnostic assessments and/or psychological therapy personalised to your own needs and strengths.
My name is Dr Tracy Ann Richardson and I run Wolds Psychology Ltd. I have worked as a Clinical Psychologist providing psychological therapy for over ten years. I have particular expertise in working with psychological trauma and am an accredited EMDR practitioner. Sometimes we don’t know what is causing us to feel distressed and I can help explore with you what is going on for you and work with you to find a way through this. I also have extensive experience in working with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, anger, relational difficulties, emotional regulation or interpersonal difficulties.
01759 487786 View 01759 487786
Photo of Natalie Kendall, MBBS, MBACP, Counsellor
Natalie Kendall
Counsellor, MBBS, MBACP
Verified Verified
Barnsley S73
Hello! Nice to meet you! I'm Natalie (Nat)—an integrative therapist based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Welcome to Spectrum Counselling. I am a registered member of the B.A.C.P. I offer a safe, kind, and non-judgmental counselling services. I embrace neurodiversity as I have years of personal and professional experience. ADHD, ADD, Autism, Dyslexia and other cognitive conditions (diagnosed and undiagnosed.) However, it is your experience that counts. It can be difficult to Reach out and I am here for you to listen and understand your needs.
Hello! Nice to meet you! I'm Natalie (Nat)—an integrative therapist based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Welcome to Spectrum Counselling. I am a registered member of the B.A.C.P. I offer a safe, kind, and non-judgmental counselling services. I embrace neurodiversity as I have years of personal and professional experience. ADHD, ADD, Autism, Dyslexia and other cognitive conditions (diagnosed and undiagnosed.) However, it is your experience that counts. It can be difficult to Reach out and I am here for you to listen and understand your needs.
01226 445164 View 01226 445164
Photo of Sasha Hvidsten, Psychiatrist
Sasha Hvidsten
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Redditch B96
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and see patients for concerns such as ADHD, autism and Tourettes / tic disorders. I work with a team of nurses and therapists to deliver a holistic approach to suit your needs. We have a clinic within a period property in the worcestershire countryside that is quiet and relaxing. We offer assessment and treatment, for autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, Tics and Tourette's, The correct diagnosis is really important in order to get the right help. Our support doesn't end with diagnosis - we are here until you don't need us anymore.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and see patients for concerns such as ADHD, autism and Tourettes / tic disorders. I work with a team of nurses and therapists to deliver a holistic approach to suit your needs. We have a clinic within a period property in the worcestershire countryside that is quiet and relaxing. We offer assessment and treatment, for autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, Tics and Tourette's, The correct diagnosis is really important in order to get the right help. Our support doesn't end with diagnosis - we are here until you don't need us anymore.
01527 919209 View 01527 919209
Photo of Lisa Weston - Neuro Coral Psychology; Autism & ADHD specialists, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
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.
01480 772097 View 01480 772097
Photo of Bettina Salzmann, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Bettina Salzmann
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW14
I have worked with individuals presenting with anxiety, General anxiety disorders, depression, stress,OCD, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, PTSD,childhood abuse, domestic violence, autism, agraphobia,bereavement,loss,sudden/ traumatic death,relationship issues,suicide,addiction, eating disorders, bipolar and personality disorder using DBT amongst others.
I am an experienced CBT therapist and integrative counsellor/psychotherapist working in private practice for Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorder, Depression, family mediation.I use mindfulness with my clients to help them to become more aware of the present moment and in acknowledging feelings and thoughts as they come and go.It’s been accepted as a useful therapy for anxiety and depression for years, and research suggests it's effective when practising reflection on yourself, switching off your auto pilot in order to discover your real feelings, and this can have an positive influence on our well being.
I have worked with individuals presenting with anxiety, General anxiety disorders, depression, stress,OCD, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, PTSD,childhood abuse, domestic violence, autism, agraphobia,bereavement,loss,sudden/ traumatic death,relationship issues,suicide,addiction, eating disorders, bipolar and personality disorder using DBT amongst others.
I am an experienced CBT therapist and integrative counsellor/psychotherapist working in private practice for Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorder, Depression, family mediation.I use mindfulness with my clients to help them to become more aware of the present moment and in acknowledging feelings and thoughts as they come and go.It’s been accepted as a useful therapy for anxiety and depression for years, and research suggests it's effective when practising reflection on yourself, switching off your auto pilot in order to discover your real feelings, and this can have an positive influence on our well being.
01748 900742 View 01748 900742
Photo of Debbie Hague, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Debbie Hague
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knebworth SG3
I have been an Integrative Counsellor/Therapist for over 20 years and I have a background in Mental health management, Autism and Addiction issues.
Hi, I’m Debbie and I have expertise and proven experience of helping clients, from all walks of life and diversity, move forward with their lives. Perhaps your issues come from a difficult past or childhood abuse or trauma? I help with self esteem and identity, stress and sleep issues. Or maybe you are struggling with your relationship or the aftermath of COVID 19? I provide a calm and safe environment in which to explore what is important to you and at your own pace.
I have been an Integrative Counsellor/Therapist for over 20 years and I have a background in Mental health management, Autism and Addiction issues.
Hi, I’m Debbie and I have expertise and proven experience of helping clients, from all walks of life and diversity, move forward with their lives. Perhaps your issues come from a difficult past or childhood abuse or trauma? I help with self esteem and identity, stress and sleep issues. Or maybe you are struggling with your relationship or the aftermath of COVID 19? I provide a calm and safe environment in which to explore what is important to you and at your own pace.
01438 584449 View 01438 584449
Photo of Gill Craven, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Gill Craven
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Derby DE21
I work with clients of all adult ages, I have experience of working with clients with full functioning Autism and I have experience of working with interpreters and sign language.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties/ breakdown or a bereavement I’m here for you. I will listen to you without judgement or criticism. Together we can process your concerns and work to find ways to manage the situation better. I remain committed to professional development by continuing to keep up to date with new research and developments. I will offer you a private environment to explore your concerns.
I work with clients of all adult ages, I have experience of working with clients with full functioning Autism and I have experience of working with interpreters and sign language.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties/ breakdown or a bereavement I’m here for you. I will listen to you without judgement or criticism. Together we can process your concerns and work to find ways to manage the situation better. I remain committed to professional development by continuing to keep up to date with new research and developments. I will offer you a private environment to explore your concerns.
01332 419435 View 01332 419435
Photo of Adeela Irfan - Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Rochdale OL11
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
01706 300329 View 01706 300329

See more therapy options for Grantham

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.