Autism Counselling in King's Lynn

Photo of Amanda Jayne Eade (Nee Goss) - MD of Harley St. Psychotherapy Ltd (Amanda Goss), MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
MD of Harley St. Psychotherapy Ltd (Amanda Goss)
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE30
We can help with 1-1 Counselling; Relationship issues; Anxiety; Depression; Stress; Low Self Esteem; Social Anxiety; Loneliness; Child Therapy; Young Persons Counselling; Family Therapy; Walking Therapy; Addiction; Eating Disorders; Sexual Abuse; Bereavement; ADHD/Autism/Asp.
Are you anxious/depressed/stressed/unhappy? Maybe you know the issue and don't want to feel this way any more? Even if you don't exactly know what is wrong, we will work with you to find out the cause so that you can live a happier, more contented life. We aim to get to the root of the problem so that the change is permanent. If you haven't had counselling before, or feel nervous about it, please call me for an informal chat. Counselling can be (and often is) a life changing experience. We suggest a 1st session, by the end of which you will know if you want to carry on. If you are a couple we have a specialist. Feel free to call.
We can help with 1-1 Counselling; Relationship issues; Anxiety; Depression; Stress; Low Self Esteem; Social Anxiety; Loneliness; Child Therapy; Young Persons Counselling; Family Therapy; Walking Therapy; Addiction; Eating Disorders; Sexual Abuse; Bereavement; ADHD/Autism/Asp.
Are you anxious/depressed/stressed/unhappy? Maybe you know the issue and don't want to feel this way any more? Even if you don't exactly know what is wrong, we will work with you to find out the cause so that you can live a happier, more contented life. We aim to get to the root of the problem so that the change is permanent. If you haven't had counselling before, or feel nervous about it, please call me for an informal chat. Counselling can be (and often is) a life changing experience. We suggest a 1st session, by the end of which you will know if you want to carry on. If you are a couple we have a specialist. Feel free to call.
020 4538 3988 View 020 4538 3988
Photo of Antonia Masson, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Antonia Masson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE31
I have 30 years experience in Special Education working with CAMHS and multi agencies including therapeutic interventions for people with Autism, ADHD, learning difficulties and SEMH I am a behaviour specialist with a Trauma Informed approach.
Coming into therapy is a positive decision to move forward in life and embark on a journey to a happier and more fulfilled future. I will stay with you on your journey, listening and hearing your thoughts and feelings guiding and following you as you determine, moving towards optimising your journey. Therapy sessions are tailored to your needs and issues, I can use a range of therapeutic strategies to meet these needs. I can offer an empathetic listening space, non judgemental and safe.
I have 30 years experience in Special Education working with CAMHS and multi agencies including therapeutic interventions for people with Autism, ADHD, learning difficulties and SEMH I am a behaviour specialist with a Trauma Informed approach.
Coming into therapy is a positive decision to move forward in life and embark on a journey to a happier and more fulfilled future. I will stay with you on your journey, listening and hearing your thoughts and feelings guiding and following you as you determine, moving towards optimising your journey. Therapy sessions are tailored to your needs and issues, I can use a range of therapeutic strategies to meet these needs. I can offer an empathetic listening space, non judgemental and safe.
01485 506860 View 01485 506860
Photo of Jeff Compton, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jeff Compton
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE31
Most people are currently in or have tried to be in relationships. These may be with partners, family members, children or with work colleagues. Mental health issues or traumas that have happened earlier in life can often impact those relationships and cause stress. Often individuals feel stuck with these difficulties repeating them although they don't work. Individual or couple counselling can help here. So can focusing on other effects like working with the family or the children.
Most people are currently in or have tried to be in relationships. These may be with partners, family members, children or with work colleagues. Mental health issues or traumas that have happened earlier in life can often impact those relationships and cause stress. Often individuals feel stuck with these difficulties repeating them although they don't work. Individual or couple counselling can help here. So can focusing on other effects like working with the family or the children.
01553 603536 View 01553 603536
Photo of Charlotte Sara Walters, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Charlotte Sara Walters
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE33
I work with older children (12+) and adults. I have experience of working with stress, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, domestic abuse, relationships, sexuality, grief/loss, behavioural issues and addiction/alcoholism. I have also recently worked voluntarily for two charities counselling young people affected by domestic abuse, and with people in addiction recovery. I work with a person centred foundation, therefore sessions are led by the clients needs as an individual. We work together to find the best way forward. The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance.
I work with older children (12+) and adults. I have experience of working with stress, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, domestic abuse, relationships, sexuality, grief/loss, behavioural issues and addiction/alcoholism. I have also recently worked voluntarily for two charities counselling young people affected by domestic abuse, and with people in addiction recovery. I work with a person centred foundation, therefore sessions are led by the clients needs as an individual. We work together to find the best way forward. The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance.
020 3322 9513 View 020 3322 9513
Photo of Jules Semple, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jules Semple
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King's Lynn PE30
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, low in mood? Perhaps you are feeling that you have lost your way? If you are seeking some support and clarity to explore ways in which you can cope better with everyday life, you have taken the biggest step forward by opening yourself up to counselling. I work with people with all sorts of different needs. Every session is tailored to suit the individual. It is perfectly natural to feel a little nervous before embarking on therapy. I can assure you that we will take things at your pace to promote a comfortable place for you to work through things.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, low in mood? Perhaps you are feeling that you have lost your way? If you are seeking some support and clarity to explore ways in which you can cope better with everyday life, you have taken the biggest step forward by opening yourself up to counselling. I work with people with all sorts of different needs. Every session is tailored to suit the individual. It is perfectly natural to feel a little nervous before embarking on therapy. I can assure you that we will take things at your pace to promote a comfortable place for you to work through things.
020 8054 5039 View 020 8054 5039
Photo of Jo Thompson - Jo Thompson, MUKCP, Counsellor
Jo Thompson
Counsellor, MUKCP
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE30
At times life can become too much, you may be struggling and feeling stuck, not knowing which way to turn. You may chose to explore relationships, patterns of behaviour and influences from the past or present. Choices made due to abuse, trauma or any other issues may be holding you back from your true potential. Either way, we can work towards seeking greater understanding of your unique problems in a non-judgemental curious way.
At times life can become too much, you may be struggling and feeling stuck, not knowing which way to turn. You may chose to explore relationships, patterns of behaviour and influences from the past or present. Choices made due to abuse, trauma or any other issues may be holding you back from your true potential. Either way, we can work towards seeking greater understanding of your unique problems in a non-judgemental curious way.
020 8176 6734 View 020 8176 6734

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Raquel Navarro Martinez, MSc
Raquel Navarro Martinez
MSc
Verified Verified
Islington PE34
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence.
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence.
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
020 4538 4677 View 020 4538 4677
Photo of Loukas Neocleous, MBACP, Counsellor
Loukas Neocleous
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Islington PE34
My name is Loukas Neocleous, and I have been employed at a special needs school for the past 17 years. Despite the challenges and complexities that come with my job, I maintain a professional outlook by not taking anything personally and viewing all behavior as a means of communication. Building strong, positive relationships with people is one of my strengths. I have found that my kindness, friendliness, openness, and willingness to listen have served me well throughout my career. I believe in being genuine and hardworking, as these qualities are vital for resolving issues effectively. To effectively deal with diversity.
My name is Loukas Neocleous, and I have been employed at a special needs school for the past 17 years. Despite the challenges and complexities that come with my job, I maintain a professional outlook by not taking anything personally and viewing all behavior as a means of communication. Building strong, positive relationships with people is one of my strengths. I have found that my kindness, friendliness, openness, and willingness to listen have served me well throughout my career. I believe in being genuine and hardworking, as these qualities are vital for resolving issues effectively. To effectively deal with diversity.
020 4538 2415 View 020 4538 2415
Photo of Dr Katrina Lake Consultant Clinical Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katrina Lake Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Islington PE34  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
When you need it, it’s important to be able to access the right help as soon as possible. You may have concerns about your mental health or emotional wellbeing, would like to address past traumas or have noticed unhelpful patterns in your relationships. I offer brief and longer term therapy and have specialist training and extensive experience practicing a range of therapies including EMDR, CBT and IFS. We would use the best approach, or combination of approaches for you, creating a bespoke therapy tailored to your needs, meeting at a time that works for you, either weekly or on alternate weeks.
When you need it, it’s important to be able to access the right help as soon as possible. You may have concerns about your mental health or emotional wellbeing, would like to address past traumas or have noticed unhelpful patterns in your relationships. I offer brief and longer term therapy and have specialist training and extensive experience practicing a range of therapies including EMDR, CBT and IFS. We would use the best approach, or combination of approaches for you, creating a bespoke therapy tailored to your needs, meeting at a time that works for you, either weekly or on alternate weeks.
01273 092800 View 01273 092800
Photo of Carima Nolten, MBACP, Counsellor
Carima Nolten
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Islington PE34
I am a trauma-informed Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) with expertise in SEND, Neurodiversity and SEMH supporting children, young people and adults, both online and face-to-face . I offer a combination of Talking and Creative Therapies that are beneficial in working with trauma, bereavement, stress management, anxiety and burnout. Life is full of opportunies and hurdles to overcome, and its vital that we all have a strong sense of self, to be able to draw from a toolkit of coping tools, in order to navigate life's challenges as best we can and reach our full potential- It's what we all deserve. Are you ready to take the first step...
I am a trauma-informed Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) with expertise in SEND, Neurodiversity and SEMH supporting children, young people and adults, both online and face-to-face . I offer a combination of Talking and Creative Therapies that are beneficial in working with trauma, bereavement, stress management, anxiety and burnout. Life is full of opportunies and hurdles to overcome, and its vital that we all have a strong sense of self, to be able to draw from a toolkit of coping tools, in order to navigate life's challenges as best we can and reach our full potential- It's what we all deserve. Are you ready to take the first step...
020 3835 2662 View 020 3835 2662
Photo of Nicola Poole - Nature Therapist, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Poole - Nature Therapist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnham Market PE31
EXPLORE ~ EXPERIENCE ~ ENGAGE ~ EMPOWER How we feel can impact on our world significantly. Talking through thoughts and feelings at our own pace can be a helpful way to explore what may lie at the root of pain and difficulty. My endeavour as a PERSON CENTRED NATURE THERAPIST is to work alongside you in finding your way back to a space of balance and wellbeing within. PERSON CENTRED therapy is at the very core of how I work therapeutically and NATURE deepens and inspires that process. Combining these approaches can be a way to explore thoughts and feelings and facilitate healing.
EXPLORE ~ EXPERIENCE ~ ENGAGE ~ EMPOWER How we feel can impact on our world significantly. Talking through thoughts and feelings at our own pace can be a helpful way to explore what may lie at the root of pain and difficulty. My endeavour as a PERSON CENTRED NATURE THERAPIST is to work alongside you in finding your way back to a space of balance and wellbeing within. PERSON CENTRED therapy is at the very core of how I work therapeutically and NATURE deepens and inspires that process. Combining these approaches can be a way to explore thoughts and feelings and facilitate healing.
01263 808962 View 01263 808962

Online Therapists

Photo of Julie Dawn Frith, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Julie Dawn Frith
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S35  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with incredible individuals whose unique perspectives and strengths have inspired me every day. Witnessing their growth, resilience, and creativity has fuelled my commitment to making a difference in their lives. I am excited to leverage my experience and knowledge to provide dedicated, empathetic support to those navigating the challenges and celebrating the triumphs of living with ADHD and Autism. My goal is to create a space where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with incredible individuals whose unique perspectives and strengths have inspired me every day. Witnessing their growth, resilience, and creativity has fuelled my commitment to making a difference in their lives. I am excited to leverage my experience and knowledge to provide dedicated, empathetic support to those navigating the challenges and celebrating the triumphs of living with ADHD and Autism. My goal is to create a space where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to thrive.
0114 697 3216 View 0114 697 3216
Photo of Dr Rachel Holden, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rachel Holden
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist with particular interest in working with individuals, families and couples who want to use therapy to think about relationships. In some cases, this might be in the context of an autism spectrum condition, an existential/life crisis, or a change in circumstances. I've enjoyed working with creative people who are feeling blocked, and people who feel stuck in relationship patterns. I try to be honest, straightforward, and open. In the past, clients have described me as thoughtful, caring, funny (where appropriate!), and creative.
I am a psychologist with particular interest in working with individuals, families and couples who want to use therapy to think about relationships. In some cases, this might be in the context of an autism spectrum condition, an existential/life crisis, or a change in circumstances. I've enjoyed working with creative people who are feeling blocked, and people who feel stuck in relationship patterns. I try to be honest, straightforward, and open. In the past, clients have described me as thoughtful, caring, funny (where appropriate!), and creative.
01689 664670 View 01689 664670
Photo of Katherine Foster, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Katherine Foster
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Huntingdon PE28
I provide therapeutic support to children, adolescents, adults and teachers within the education sector and in my private practice. I specialise in working with young people and children who have autism and ADHD, and work closely with the parents/carers of the young people I see. I support people with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties including: ASC, ADHD, Attachment disorders and mental health difficulties (anxiety, depression, disordered eating), and have worked with trauma, sexual, physical and psychological abuse and those dealing with self-harm and suicidal ideation.
I provide therapeutic support to children, adolescents, adults and teachers within the education sector and in my private practice. I specialise in working with young people and children who have autism and ADHD, and work closely with the parents/carers of the young people I see. I support people with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties including: ASC, ADHD, Attachment disorders and mental health difficulties (anxiety, depression, disordered eating), and have worked with trauma, sexual, physical and psychological abuse and those dealing with self-harm and suicidal ideation.
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Photo of Dror Cohen, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dror Cohen
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N6
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, as well as parental counselling. I am also available for clinical supervision for psychologists and psychotherapists. I currently work as a lead psychologist for an adult health psychology service in a NHS teaching hospital. In this role I offer specialised therapy to adults and young adults with a range of psychological difficulties that include depression, anxiety, impulsivity, psycho sexual difficulties, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, as well as parental counselling. I am also available for clinical supervision for psychologists and psychotherapists. I currently work as a lead psychologist for an adult health psychology service in a NHS teaching hospital. In this role I offer specialised therapy to adults and young adults with a range of psychological difficulties that include depression, anxiety, impulsivity, psycho sexual difficulties, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder.
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Photo of Dr Angela Campbell, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Angela Campbell
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bromley BR1
I specialise in working with children and families, having spent a number of years working in a mainstream Child and Adolescent Service (CAMHS) as well as a Neurodevelopmental Service, where I specialised in supporting families and children with a diagnosis of Asperger’s and Autism.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years’ experience working in various roles within the NHS. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families, providing a supportive space to navigate and overcome a wide range of psychological difficulties. I mainly use a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Third wave CBT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Compassion Focused Therapy) approaches in my clinical work. However, I draw on other therapeutic models such as systemic, mentalisation and functional behavioural analysis where appropriate.
I specialise in working with children and families, having spent a number of years working in a mainstream Child and Adolescent Service (CAMHS) as well as a Neurodevelopmental Service, where I specialised in supporting families and children with a diagnosis of Asperger’s and Autism.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years’ experience working in various roles within the NHS. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families, providing a supportive space to navigate and overcome a wide range of psychological difficulties. I mainly use a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Third wave CBT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Compassion Focused Therapy) approaches in my clinical work. However, I draw on other therapeutic models such as systemic, mentalisation and functional behavioural analysis where appropriate.
020 4538 3814 View 020 4538 3814
Photo of Amy Lisney-Smith - Amy L-S Art Therapy, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Amy L-S Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
St Albans AL1
I have experience working with those living with ADHD, autism, emotional regulation disorders, depression, anxiety, school attendance struggles and traumatic experiences.
I am a qualified and registered Art Therapist who is passionate about helping children and young people express their emotions and reflect on their experiences through art and play. Art therapy is an established form of psychotherapy. Art materials are used to help facilitate understanding of our emotions and experiences allowing communication and self-reflection to take place. I take a non-directive approach to allow the client to explore their experiences and emotions in a way that is most natural to them.
I have experience working with those living with ADHD, autism, emotional regulation disorders, depression, anxiety, school attendance struggles and traumatic experiences.
I am a qualified and registered Art Therapist who is passionate about helping children and young people express their emotions and reflect on their experiences through art and play. Art therapy is an established form of psychotherapy. Art materials are used to help facilitate understanding of our emotions and experiences allowing communication and self-reflection to take place. I take a non-directive approach to allow the client to explore their experiences and emotions in a way that is most natural to them.
01727 222259 View 01727 222259
Photo of Richard Sherry - Psychological Systems Ltd, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Psychological Systems Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London WC1N
Dr Sherry has a particular interest and specialty in assessing and treating Complex Trauma & neurodiversity such as ADHD, Autism and Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Discoordination Syndromes.
Dr Richard Sherry is a highly experienced Consultant Chartered Clinical Psychologist, HCPC Reg., and BPS CPsychol, FBPsS; (Full BPS Member Division for Clinical Psychology (DCP) as well as a Full BPS Divisional Counselling Psychologist (DCoP); HCPC Registered for both). He is a Full Fellow of the British Psychological Society (FBPsS). Dr Sherry expertly assesses and treats a full spectrum of psychological diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, Personality Disorders, Pain Disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD. He works with adults, adolescents, and children.
Dr Sherry has a particular interest and specialty in assessing and treating Complex Trauma & neurodiversity such as ADHD, Autism and Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Discoordination Syndromes.
Dr Richard Sherry is a highly experienced Consultant Chartered Clinical Psychologist, HCPC Reg., and BPS CPsychol, FBPsS; (Full BPS Member Division for Clinical Psychology (DCP) as well as a Full BPS Divisional Counselling Psychologist (DCoP); HCPC Registered for both). He is a Full Fellow of the British Psychological Society (FBPsS). Dr Sherry expertly assesses and treats a full spectrum of psychological diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, Personality Disorders, Pain Disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD. He works with adults, adolescents, and children.
01428 770584 View 01428 770584
Photo of Rosemary Gomes, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rosemary Gomes
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N16
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
020 3962 1928 View 020 3962 1928
Photo of Mandy Sellens - Meadow Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Meadow Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grays RM16
I am a qualified counsellor with a range of experience working with adults, adolescents and children. I have worked with various difficulties, to include anxiety, depression, loss and bereavement, self-harm, anger management, OCD, trauma, abuse, ADD/ADHD and autism, gender and sexuality, relationship difficulties, loss of identity and low self-esteem/confidence, to name but a few. Most clients are looking to identify and explore their difficulties in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. Sadly, for many, counselling is the first time they feel truly heard.
I am a qualified counsellor with a range of experience working with adults, adolescents and children. I have worked with various difficulties, to include anxiety, depression, loss and bereavement, self-harm, anger management, OCD, trauma, abuse, ADD/ADHD and autism, gender and sexuality, relationship difficulties, loss of identity and low self-esteem/confidence, to name but a few. Most clients are looking to identify and explore their difficulties in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. Sadly, for many, counselling is the first time they feel truly heard.
01375 803695 View 01375 803695

See more therapy options for King's Lynn

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.