Autism Counselling in Luton

Photo of Sarah Rose, BACP, Counsellor
Sarah Rose
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Luton LU2
I have personal and professional experience of Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling anxious? Finding life overwhelming? Struggling with low mood? I can help. Sometimes life gets a bit too much, maybe something happened, either recently or in the past and this is affecting how you feel now. Perhaps you are unsure about why you feel the way that you do and you would like to explore this with someone who is trained to listen. I can provide you with a safe and non judgmental space to navigate difficult times and work through your experiences and emotions.
I have personal and professional experience of Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling anxious? Finding life overwhelming? Struggling with low mood? I can help. Sometimes life gets a bit too much, maybe something happened, either recently or in the past and this is affecting how you feel now. Perhaps you are unsure about why you feel the way that you do and you would like to explore this with someone who is trained to listen. I can provide you with a safe and non judgmental space to navigate difficult times and work through your experiences and emotions.
07918 268840 View 07918 268840
Photo of Laura Alcock - Blume Psychology Ltd , PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Blume Psychology Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Luton LU1
We offer short wait times for NICE compliant Autism assessments, ADHD Assessments, combined ASD and ADHD assessments and cognitive assessments performed by HCPC registered clinical psychologists.
We work with people who suspect they or their children may be neurodivergent, who wish to explore the way their brain works, their strengths and differences. Our aim is to help clients understand themselves, their neurodevelopmental profile and maximise their potential and lead fulfilled lives. If people suspect they or their child may be autistic, have ADHD or cognitive difficulties then our NICE compliant assessment service conducts a thorough assessment of clients’ neurodivergent profile, providing insight, understanding and a diagnosis where appropriate. Personal and specialised post- diagnostic support is available.
We offer short wait times for NICE compliant Autism assessments, ADHD Assessments, combined ASD and ADHD assessments and cognitive assessments performed by HCPC registered clinical psychologists.
We work with people who suspect they or their children may be neurodivergent, who wish to explore the way their brain works, their strengths and differences. Our aim is to help clients understand themselves, their neurodevelopmental profile and maximise their potential and lead fulfilled lives. If people suspect they or their child may be autistic, have ADHD or cognitive difficulties then our NICE compliant assessment service conducts a thorough assessment of clients’ neurodivergent profile, providing insight, understanding and a diagnosis where appropriate. Personal and specialised post- diagnostic support is available.
01908 103164 View 01908 103164
Photo of Sarah Murdoch, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Murdoch
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Luton LU3
Beginning counselling takes a huge amount of courage and I consider it a privilege to work therapeutically with each one of my clients. I provide a comfortable, warm and confidential space in which you can express yourself freely. I operate from a place of non-judgement. I work integratively, meaning that I use a number of therapeutic models as part of my approach to best meet your needs. This includes elements of humanistic, existential, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Beginning counselling takes a huge amount of courage and I consider it a privilege to work therapeutically with each one of my clients. I provide a comfortable, warm and confidential space in which you can express yourself freely. I operate from a place of non-judgement. I work integratively, meaning that I use a number of therapeutic models as part of my approach to best meet your needs. This includes elements of humanistic, existential, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural therapy.
01491 529451 View 01491 529451
Photo of Deeann Press, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Deeann Press
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Luton LU2
Please don't struggle alone - I can help you. We can explore together all the difficulties that you are battling with. Dark and negative thoughts can be shared and worked through. I have a high success rate of dealing with issues from anxiety, depression, confidence, anger, addiction, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, relationship issues, bullying, friendship problems, bereavement, school/work problems, stress and many, many more. If you feel you are living in your own mind, together we can change this - there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Please don't struggle alone - I can help you. We can explore together all the difficulties that you are battling with. Dark and negative thoughts can be shared and worked through. I have a high success rate of dealing with issues from anxiety, depression, confidence, anger, addiction, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, relationship issues, bullying, friendship problems, bereavement, school/work problems, stress and many, many more. If you feel you are living in your own mind, together we can change this - there is light at the end of the tunnel.
01582 349523 View 01582 349523
Photo of Dr Margaret Jordan, AFBPSsS, Psychologist
Dr Margaret Jordan
Psychologist, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Luton LU2
I work with most presenting issues in children & adults. I specialise in brain-based therapies that I integrate with talking therapies. My specialist area is psychological trauma and emotional regulation found in most issues. I have 38 years experience in the NHS, Private & Voluntary sectors with children, couples & adults.
I work with most presenting issues in children & adults. I specialise in brain-based therapies that I integrate with talking therapies. My specialist area is psychological trauma and emotional regulation found in most issues. I have 38 years experience in the NHS, Private & Voluntary sectors with children, couples & adults.
020 4538 5340 View 020 4538 5340
Photo of Inga Krzyzanowska de Sloan, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Inga Krzyzanowska de Sloan
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Luton LU3
I'm a fully qualified, HCPC registered Art Psychotherapist based from MK / Luton, but I work throughout the Home Counties. I utilise a creative process with clients who present with a wide range of difficulties such as low mood, attachment or relational issues, trauma, psychosis, personality disorders, self-harming behaviours, low self-esteem and anxiety disorders. Art Psychotherapy can enable you to stabilise moods, explore unconscious processes and make progress toward recovery. Using art materials encourages you to express feelings which are difficult to express in words, in a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental space.
I'm a fully qualified, HCPC registered Art Psychotherapist based from MK / Luton, but I work throughout the Home Counties. I utilise a creative process with clients who present with a wide range of difficulties such as low mood, attachment or relational issues, trauma, psychosis, personality disorders, self-harming behaviours, low self-esteem and anxiety disorders. Art Psychotherapy can enable you to stabilise moods, explore unconscious processes and make progress toward recovery. Using art materials encourages you to express feelings which are difficult to express in words, in a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental space.
01491 523719 View 01491 523719
Photo of Fiona Beckford, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Fiona Beckford
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Luton LU4  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and family estrangements, particularly with relationship and communication breakdowns. I also have clients who identify as dual heritage and wish to explore 'who am I?' in their cultural context to address any relationship breakdown. I also support clients who have been traumatised and for those who are happy to engage, set personal development homework, so clients can witness their own progress. And as a Christian therapist, who is guided by the teachings of the Bible, I enjoy working ethiclly and opening, treating all clients with compassion, kindness and care.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and family estrangements, particularly with relationship and communication breakdowns. I also have clients who identify as dual heritage and wish to explore 'who am I?' in their cultural context to address any relationship breakdown. I also support clients who have been traumatised and for those who are happy to engage, set personal development homework, so clients can witness their own progress. And as a Christian therapist, who is guided by the teachings of the Bible, I enjoy working ethiclly and opening, treating all clients with compassion, kindness and care.
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Photo of Gay Lane, MBACP, Counsellor
Gay Lane
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Luton LU2
I am a person centred counsellor located in Bedfordshire. I have worked with a range of issues including domestic abuse, social anxiety, low self esteem, depression to name but a few. As a person centred therapist I respect my clients autonomy whilst working in a safe empathic and non-judgemental way. Building a therapeutic alliance with my clients enabling them to feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings.
I am a person centred counsellor located in Bedfordshire. I have worked with a range of issues including domestic abuse, social anxiety, low self esteem, depression to name but a few. As a person centred therapist I respect my clients autonomy whilst working in a safe empathic and non-judgemental way. Building a therapeutic alliance with my clients enabling them to feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings.
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Photo of Rebecca Ingram, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rebecca Ingram
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Luton LU1
Do you find yourself prioritising the external world and the needs of those around you? Perhaps you feel different to others or misunderstood in relationships? It may be you experience self-doubt, negative thinking or notice yourself repeating patterns that impact your relationships. Whatever is going on for you working together, relationally we can begin to explore ‘YOU’, focus on raising your awareness & understanding of the way you experience yourself, to identify your goals for therapy, to be open to learning new ways of being. Therapy is a commitment between client & therapist, to be open to wanting things to be different.
Do you find yourself prioritising the external world and the needs of those around you? Perhaps you feel different to others or misunderstood in relationships? It may be you experience self-doubt, negative thinking or notice yourself repeating patterns that impact your relationships. Whatever is going on for you working together, relationally we can begin to explore ‘YOU’, focus on raising your awareness & understanding of the way you experience yourself, to identify your goals for therapy, to be open to learning new ways of being. Therapy is a commitment between client & therapist, to be open to wanting things to be different.
01628 969896 View 01628 969896
Photo of Jennie Canty - Chiltern Talking Therapies, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Chiltern Talking Therapies
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Luton LU3
Hi, I'm Jennie! I'm a CBT/EMDR Therapist and owner of Chiltern Talking Therapies. My Associates and I offer face to face or virtual CBT, EMDR, Counselling, Schema and Art Psychotherapy sessions and ADHD Assessments. We can support adults and young people with a wide range of difficulties. We are non-judgemental and have a wealth of experience between us, from working with addictions, offenders, children, clients with brain injuries and couples. I pride our team on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We all hold DBS checks and indemnity insurance, which you can view at any time.
Hi, I'm Jennie! I'm a CBT/EMDR Therapist and owner of Chiltern Talking Therapies. My Associates and I offer face to face or virtual CBT, EMDR, Counselling, Schema and Art Psychotherapy sessions and ADHD Assessments. We can support adults and young people with a wide range of difficulties. We are non-judgemental and have a wealth of experience between us, from working with addictions, offenders, children, clients with brain injuries and couples. I pride our team on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We all hold DBS checks and indemnity insurance, which you can view at any time.
01442 971728 View 01442 971728
Photo of Ina Spellings, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ina Spellings
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Luton LU1  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Trauma Therapist specialising in helping adult survivors of childhood abuse. As a Certified Clinical Anxiety Specialist and Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor, I offer support through a blend of neuroscience, grounding techniques, and psychoeducation. Additionally, I work with individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, utilising Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques. My approach is holistic and empathetic, dedicated to fostering healing and resilience in a safe and supportive environment. I work bilingually in English and Romanian.
I am a Clinical Trauma Therapist specialising in helping adult survivors of childhood abuse. As a Certified Clinical Anxiety Specialist and Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor, I offer support through a blend of neuroscience, grounding techniques, and psychoeducation. Additionally, I work with individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, utilising Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques. My approach is holistic and empathetic, dedicated to fostering healing and resilience in a safe and supportive environment. I work bilingually in English and Romanian.
020 4538 0219 View 020 4538 0219
Photo of Tracey Morison, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracey Morison
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Luton LU3  (Online Only)
Looking for counsellor can be a daunting prospect I offer a supportive , accepting , professional and confidential Therapeutic Counselling Service where you can be yourself. Small steps can lead to big changes and you have made the first sometimes difficult step to seek help . I understand we all have bad days sometimes , in which days just don’t seem to end and where stress and anxiety can affect our whole way of being . I have many years of experience working with individuals and couples and I understand the difficulties faced and the mixed emotions that can be felt .
Looking for counsellor can be a daunting prospect I offer a supportive , accepting , professional and confidential Therapeutic Counselling Service where you can be yourself. Small steps can lead to big changes and you have made the first sometimes difficult step to seek help . I understand we all have bad days sometimes , in which days just don’t seem to end and where stress and anxiety can affect our whole way of being . I have many years of experience working with individuals and couples and I understand the difficulties faced and the mixed emotions that can be felt .
01582 377072 View 01582 377072

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicola Borthwick, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Borthwick
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stevenage SG4
I have worked with a broad client group who have experienced anxiety, depression, bereavement, abuse, trauma, relationship/family difficulties, suicidal feelings, anger issues, OCD and domestic violence, as well as many other issues, including personality disorders & Autism/ASC.
Hello, my name is Nicola and I am an Integrative counsellor. This means that I can integrate a range of counselling approaches tailored to your needs, to help you find a way through difficulties so that you find your own solutions. This includes the following types of counselling: Person Centred, Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA)/Communication. I am an accredited member of NCS and a member of BACP, in addition I am also a qualified Adult Community Co-ordinator in Further Education. I have worked in this sector for almost 30 years and offer training in Mental Health including Mindfulness.
I have worked with a broad client group who have experienced anxiety, depression, bereavement, abuse, trauma, relationship/family difficulties, suicidal feelings, anger issues, OCD and domestic violence, as well as many other issues, including personality disorders & Autism/ASC.
Hello, my name is Nicola and I am an Integrative counsellor. This means that I can integrate a range of counselling approaches tailored to your needs, to help you find a way through difficulties so that you find your own solutions. This includes the following types of counselling: Person Centred, Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA)/Communication. I am an accredited member of NCS and a member of BACP, in addition I am also a qualified Adult Community Co-ordinator in Further Education. I have worked in this sector for almost 30 years and offer training in Mental Health including Mindfulness.
07480 537495 View 07480 537495
Photo of Dr Catriona Amberton, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Catriona Amberton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Harpenden AL5
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 24 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 24 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
01707 244841 View 01707 244841
Photo of Tamsin Mitchell Black, MBACP, Counsellor
Tamsin Mitchell Black
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stotfold SG5
I have vast experience of working with neurodiversity, particularly Autism, ADHD, PDA, Selective mutism.
Hello I am a children's, young person and adult counsellor I offer a non-judgmental, confidential space, this safe space allows the client to share their thoughts and feelings. As a person-centred counsellor, and I use lots of creativity , I offer a holistic approach, with the client always at the centre of the counselling. I believe that everyone’s life and needs are unique, I work with every client differently and with compassion and non-judgment, I am not here to tell you what to do or give you advice but to walk side by side with you.
I have vast experience of working with neurodiversity, particularly Autism, ADHD, PDA, Selective mutism.
Hello I am a children's, young person and adult counsellor I offer a non-judgmental, confidential space, this safe space allows the client to share their thoughts and feelings. As a person-centred counsellor, and I use lots of creativity , I offer a holistic approach, with the client always at the centre of the counselling. I believe that everyone’s life and needs are unique, I work with every client differently and with compassion and non-judgment, I am not here to tell you what to do or give you advice but to walk side by side with you.
01462 412416 View 01462 412416
Photo of Dr Antonia Harrison, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Antonia Harrison
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Ampthill MK45
If you have made the decision to seek support from a psychologist, you have now taken the first step towards an improvement in your emotional and mental well-being. I provide psychological assessments and therapy, working with adults, children or families. If you do not have a clinical diagnosis, or are unsure of your needs, I can provide an assessment, and work with you to determine your goals and develop a treatment plan. If you are seeking a formal Autism /Asperger's diagnosis assessment, this is one of my specialist services. I provide therapies and diagnostic services privately, in Bedfordshire.
If you have made the decision to seek support from a psychologist, you have now taken the first step towards an improvement in your emotional and mental well-being. I provide psychological assessments and therapy, working with adults, children or families. If you do not have a clinical diagnosis, or are unsure of your needs, I can provide an assessment, and work with you to determine your goals and develop a treatment plan. If you are seeking a formal Autism /Asperger's diagnosis assessment, this is one of my specialist services. I provide therapies and diagnostic services privately, in Bedfordshire.
01234 480102 View 01234 480102
Photo of Tania Thorn - Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tring HP23  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
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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 AL3
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 Sam Lewis - Healing Hope Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Healing Hope Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bedford MK45
I also have a special interest in Neurodiversity with lived experience in Autism and ADHD.
Hello and welcome to a little about me in your search to find the right counsellor. I am a qualified Counsellor and Hypnotherapist working with both adults and young people (12+) in Central Milton Keynes. You may be here for one reason or several, but what ever brings you I will provide a space that is accepting, warm and open for you to decide how much you want to share and when. The counselling path needs to be one that is done at your pace, in a way that is comfortable for you. I can use a number of different tools to help you work through difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self esteem difficulties, loss and trauma.
I also have a special interest in Neurodiversity with lived experience in Autism and ADHD.
Hello and welcome to a little about me in your search to find the right counsellor. I am a qualified Counsellor and Hypnotherapist working with both adults and young people (12+) in Central Milton Keynes. You may be here for one reason or several, but what ever brings you I will provide a space that is accepting, warm and open for you to decide how much you want to share and when. The counselling path needs to be one that is done at your pace, in a way that is comfortable for you. I can use a number of different tools to help you work through difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self esteem difficulties, loss and trauma.
01908 103670 View 01908 103670
Photo of Dr Sonia Borghino, MSc, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Sonia Borghino
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Hitchin SG5
I use Neurofeedback (EGG Biofeedback) to promote well-being and a person's ability to cope and for a variety of symptoms including insomnia, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, Autism and more.
I am a licensed Psychologist registered with the BPS and HCPC. I worked in a clinical setting for over 22 years with a variety of client groups including community, outpatients and inpatients hospital. I have worked extensively with clients with mental disorders and neuro-developmental conditions even when these are strongly affected by childhood trauma. I offer talking therapy and also a unique approach to health and wellness including EMDR, neurofeedback an body biofeedback technology to help the body and the brain to better self-regulate and heal naturally without medication or with less reliance on medication.
I use Neurofeedback (EGG Biofeedback) to promote well-being and a person's ability to cope and for a variety of symptoms including insomnia, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, Autism and more.
I am a licensed Psychologist registered with the BPS and HCPC. I worked in a clinical setting for over 22 years with a variety of client groups including community, outpatients and inpatients hospital. I have worked extensively with clients with mental disorders and neuro-developmental conditions even when these are strongly affected by childhood trauma. I offer talking therapy and also a unique approach to health and wellness including EMDR, neurofeedback an body biofeedback technology to help the body and the brain to better self-regulate and heal naturally without medication or with less reliance on medication.
020 3893 2192 View 020 3893 2192

See more therapy options for Luton

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.