Autism Counselling in Matlock

Photo of Alexandra Leedham - Autism Unpicked: Assessment (child and adult 7-25), HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Autism Unpicked: Assessment (child and adult 7-25)
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4
Autism Unpicked primarily offer neuroaffirmative private Autism assessment for children and young adults aged 7-25 in Sheffield, South Yorks (e.g. Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley), Derbyshire and Notts. Assessments will be online/by phone and in person for the direct element of the assessment (more details on our website - www.autismunpicked.co.uk). We are a team of specialist qualified clinicians (Clinical Psychologists and Specialist Speech and Language Therapists) trained and experienced in assessing people for Autism.
Autism Unpicked primarily offer neuroaffirmative private Autism assessment for children and young adults aged 7-25 in Sheffield, South Yorks (e.g. Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley), Derbyshire and Notts. Assessments will be online/by phone and in person for the direct element of the assessment (more details on our website - www.autismunpicked.co.uk). We are a team of specialist qualified clinicians (Clinical Psychologists and Specialist Speech and Language Therapists) trained and experienced in assessing people for Autism.
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Photo of Alex Blood - Derbyshire Music Therapy, MA, HCPC-Music Therap., Psychotherapist
Derbyshire Music Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4
I also specialise in SEND and young people diagnosed with autism/ASD.
Hi, I'm Alex. I am a Pyschodynamic Music Therapist working across Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Derby. Music Therapy is a regulated psychological clinical intervention, which is delivered by masters level trained, HCPC registered Music Therapists. It can help people whose lives have been affected by illness, injury, mental health or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs. It is especially appropriate for people who have difficulty articulating feelings or experiences verbally, either due to speech and language problems or simply because words are hard to find.
I also specialise in SEND and young people diagnosed with autism/ASD.
Hi, I'm Alex. I am a Pyschodynamic Music Therapist working across Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Derby. Music Therapy is a regulated psychological clinical intervention, which is delivered by masters level trained, HCPC registered Music Therapists. It can help people whose lives have been affected by illness, injury, mental health or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs. It is especially appropriate for people who have difficulty articulating feelings or experiences verbally, either due to speech and language problems or simply because words are hard to find.
01629 707129 View 01629 707129
Photo of Sian Alexandra Spencer-Bray - Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic (TLC), MSc, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic (TLC)
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4
Sex therapy, CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic counselling, couples therapy, child therapy (11+), person-centred counselling, trauma focused therapy and Autism assessments.
TLC is a clinic of experienced and highly qualified professionals working towards helping you better yourself. We work with individuals, couples and groups to offer a confidential service where clients can discuss sensitive issues with no judgement. Sian’s (the founder) career has been namely in mental health and sexual health, two areas which she is hugely passionate about. At TLC we work with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, bereavement, stress, bullying, low self-esteem, relationships and offer Autism assessments, to name a few. All our professionals are registered with COSRT, BABCP, BACP, HCPC or BPS.
Sex therapy, CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic counselling, couples therapy, child therapy (11+), person-centred counselling, trauma focused therapy and Autism assessments.
TLC is a clinic of experienced and highly qualified professionals working towards helping you better yourself. We work with individuals, couples and groups to offer a confidential service where clients can discuss sensitive issues with no judgement. Sian’s (the founder) career has been namely in mental health and sexual health, two areas which she is hugely passionate about. At TLC we work with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, bereavement, stress, bullying, low self-esteem, relationships and offer Autism assessments, to name a few. All our professionals are registered with COSRT, BABCP, BACP, HCPC or BPS.
01246 607005 View 01246 607005
Photo of Myszka Fox, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Myszka Fox
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4
Therapy is individual, not off the peg… When we feel that those around us do not understand us, or do not accept us, it can feel like a lonely, uphill struggle. I have a long-held interest in what makes us all tick, and the strategies that we can access to better manage the ups and downs in our lives. It has become evident to me, through many life changes, that we work much better together than we do alone.
Therapy is individual, not off the peg… When we feel that those around us do not understand us, or do not accept us, it can feel like a lonely, uphill struggle. I have a long-held interest in what makes us all tick, and the strategies that we can access to better manage the ups and downs in our lives. It has become evident to me, through many life changes, that we work much better together than we do alone.
01283 243909 View 01283 243909
Photo of Kirsty Turner, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Kirsty Turner
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4  (Online Only)
At times, we can feel overwhelmed by the events and demands facing us. Life can feel daunting, and we can lose trust in ourselves to find a way forward. We can neglect ourselves and ignore areas of our lives that are painful. We may notice beliefs and habits we are stuck with that are holding us back from living life fully. Psychotherapy can help unravel the patterns we are caught in. Learning to pay attention to ourselves in a supportive space can help us to shift our perspective and find new directions. We can develop a compassionate relationship with ourselves that will help generate new energy to overcome our obstacles.
At times, we can feel overwhelmed by the events and demands facing us. Life can feel daunting, and we can lose trust in ourselves to find a way forward. We can neglect ourselves and ignore areas of our lives that are painful. We may notice beliefs and habits we are stuck with that are holding us back from living life fully. Psychotherapy can help unravel the patterns we are caught in. Learning to pay attention to ourselves in a supportive space can help us to shift our perspective and find new directions. We can develop a compassionate relationship with ourselves that will help generate new energy to overcome our obstacles.
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Photo of Debra Newton, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Debra Newton
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Matlock DE4
Hello my name is Debra. Would you like a quiet and relaxed space where you can begin to explore whatever is on your mind. I am committed to providing confidentiality and empathy in a non-judgmental and safe environment to help you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences and feel empowered in your chosen way forward. Counselling can help with many problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, disability, life stages, changes and adjustments and help with self-esteem and confidence feelings and other personal issues. I qualified as a Counsellor in 2003 and work in a person centred way.
Hello my name is Debra. Would you like a quiet and relaxed space where you can begin to explore whatever is on your mind. I am committed to providing confidentiality and empathy in a non-judgmental and safe environment to help you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences and feel empowered in your chosen way forward. Counselling can help with many problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, disability, life stages, changes and adjustments and help with self-esteem and confidence feelings and other personal issues. I qualified as a Counsellor in 2003 and work in a person centred way.
07723 456052 View 07723 456052

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christopher Morris, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Christopher Morris
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S40
I have a great deal of experience or working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as those living with varying mental health conditions such as Bipolar, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello, I'm Christopher, a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with, Adults, Children & Young People and Couples in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire. As a Humanistic Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to achieve their fullest potential. Anyone who is struggling with a personal concern can seek counselling. No issue is too big or too small to ask for support. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, when they need it. Therefore, I work with clients of all ages, from 4 years old and upwards. I also offer discounted rates in certain circumstances.
I have a great deal of experience or working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as those living with varying mental health conditions such as Bipolar, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello, I'm Christopher, a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with, Adults, Children & Young People and Couples in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire. As a Humanistic Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to achieve their fullest potential. Anyone who is struggling with a personal concern can seek counselling. No issue is too big or too small to ask for support. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, when they need it. Therefore, I work with clients of all ages, from 4 years old and upwards. I also offer discounted rates in certain circumstances.
01623 392757 View 01623 392757
Photo of Carolyn Hart, MA, ACP, Psychotherapist
Carolyn Hart
Psychotherapist, MA, ACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S41
I am a consultant child and adolescent psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in the NHS and NSPCC, treating clients with difficulties including, autism, anxiety, developmental delay, trauma and attachment difficulties. I work with parent-infant pairs, young children, adolescents and young adults. I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental, accepting and nurturing environment. For young children and those who find it difficult to speak, I work through play and the arts. To get a better understanding of how this works, please look at the videos on my website.
I am a consultant child and adolescent psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in the NHS and NSPCC, treating clients with difficulties including, autism, anxiety, developmental delay, trauma and attachment difficulties. I work with parent-infant pairs, young children, adolescents and young adults. I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental, accepting and nurturing environment. For young children and those who find it difficult to speak, I work through play and the arts. To get a better understanding of how this works, please look at the videos on my website.
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Photo of Dawn Cooper - Hope Therapy Hub, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Hope Therapy Hub
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S40
Hi, my name is Dawn. My background is as a registered mental health nurse and I have worked with children, young people, and families for over 25 years. I am also a dual-qualified psychotherapist and I work privately helping people from all age groups to overcome a wide range of mental health challenges which include: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma work including PTSD, relationship difficulties, autism, and attention deficit disorders to mention a few. I love my job and I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and getting their lives back on track.
Hi, my name is Dawn. My background is as a registered mental health nurse and I have worked with children, young people, and families for over 25 years. I am also a dual-qualified psychotherapist and I work privately helping people from all age groups to overcome a wide range of mental health challenges which include: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma work including PTSD, relationship difficulties, autism, and attention deficit disorders to mention a few. I love my job and I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and getting their lives back on track.
01433 447544 View 01433 447544
Photo of Bex Fennell, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Bex Fennell
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S40
Not accepting new clients
I have experience of working with additional needs, specifically Autism/ ADHD and have worked for agencies offering counselling for survivors of sexual abuse, bereavement and loss and adolescent trauma.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCS/ MBACP) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
I have experience of working with additional needs, specifically Autism/ ADHD and have worked for agencies offering counselling for survivors of sexual abuse, bereavement and loss and adolescent trauma.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCS/ MBACP) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
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Photo of Jo Burch - Jo Burch Counselling and Psychotherapy, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jo Burch Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Duffield DE56
Hello and welcome, I'm Jo. You may have come here because you're struggling to cope with life's challenges. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, lost or alone and you're finding it hard to deal with the difficult feelings. Many situations can bring us to a point where everything feels too much - for example, emotional and/or physical ill health, work stress, relationship difficulties, break-ups, bereavement, trauma and unresolved childhood issues. I offer psychotherapy and Havening Techniques to help you to explore what you need to resolve your difficulties and gain balance in your life and in your relationships.
Hello and welcome, I'm Jo. You may have come here because you're struggling to cope with life's challenges. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, lost or alone and you're finding it hard to deal with the difficult feelings. Many situations can bring us to a point where everything feels too much - for example, emotional and/or physical ill health, work stress, relationship difficulties, break-ups, bereavement, trauma and unresolved childhood issues. I offer psychotherapy and Havening Techniques to help you to explore what you need to resolve your difficulties and gain balance in your life and in your relationships.
01332 327435 View 01332 327435
Photo of Maggie Slater, MBACP, Counsellor
Maggie Slater
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S42
Hello, my name is Maggie, I’m a qualified counsellor, and based in Derbyshire. I specialise in working with children and adolescents, also working with adults, experiencing concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bereavement and stress. I provide a safe and confidential place for you to discuss worries and concerns and find a way to move forward. Whilst working with children/adolescents, I like to work with family, incorporating this in the sessions, by one or both parents attending some of the counselling sessions, if this is appropriate. I believe working all together can and does improve the building of a healthy relationship.
Hello, my name is Maggie, I’m a qualified counsellor, and based in Derbyshire. I specialise in working with children and adolescents, also working with adults, experiencing concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bereavement and stress. I provide a safe and confidential place for you to discuss worries and concerns and find a way to move forward. Whilst working with children/adolescents, I like to work with family, incorporating this in the sessions, by one or both parents attending some of the counselling sessions, if this is appropriate. I believe working all together can and does improve the building of a healthy relationship.
01522 440482 View 01522 440482
Photo of Sarah Knee, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Knee
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S41
Welcome. Whatever you’re going through right now, I’m glad you’re here. I work with a wide range of issues, and have additional skills and experience in working with neurodiversity, parenthood and palliative care. I work in an affirmative way and invite you to come as you are - with snot and tears, fidgety or nervous, or not knowing where to start - just come.
Welcome. Whatever you’re going through right now, I’m glad you’re here. I work with a wide range of issues, and have additional skills and experience in working with neurodiversity, parenthood and palliative care. I work in an affirmative way and invite you to come as you are - with snot and tears, fidgety or nervous, or not knowing where to start - just come.
020 3540 6429 View 020 3540 6429
Photo of Dawn White - Dawn White - Relationship Living, MBACP, Counsellor
Dawn White - Relationship Living
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S41
As a sex and relationship therapist I aim to provide an open space where people can discuss, and explore their intimate concerns and experiences in a non judgemental way. I work with both couples, individuals and multiple partnered people, whilst honouring all sexual orientations and practices. People that are experiencing sexual, emotional or deeper relationship issues, contact me to explore and understand what they can change and control, and also what patterns are repeating in their relationships. I am a sex positive therapist and have over 20 years extensive experience as a therapist.
As a sex and relationship therapist I aim to provide an open space where people can discuss, and explore their intimate concerns and experiences in a non judgemental way. I work with both couples, individuals and multiple partnered people, whilst honouring all sexual orientations and practices. People that are experiencing sexual, emotional or deeper relationship issues, contact me to explore and understand what they can change and control, and also what patterns are repeating in their relationships. I am a sex positive therapist and have over 20 years extensive experience as a therapist.
0114 697 2894 View 0114 697 2894
Photo of Ella Woods - The Child Psychology Hub - Dr Ella Woods, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
The Child Psychology Hub - Dr Ella Woods
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Duffield DE56
Mental health assessment ¬¬ ADHD assessment ¬¬ Consultation ¬¬ Therapy waitlist currently closed ¬¬ private social work services. Are you worried about your child’s emotional wellbeing? Have they had some changes in their mood or behaviour that worries you? Or maybe stress and anxiety is getting in the way of them achieving their potential or enjoying their life? You might be doubting yourself as a parent or feel exhausted trying to find the right support. At The Child Psychology Hub we offer specialist clinical psychology assessment and therapy to children and their families. www.thechildpsychologyhub.co.uk
Mental health assessment ¬¬ ADHD assessment ¬¬ Consultation ¬¬ Therapy waitlist currently closed ¬¬ private social work services. Are you worried about your child’s emotional wellbeing? Have they had some changes in their mood or behaviour that worries you? Or maybe stress and anxiety is getting in the way of them achieving their potential or enjoying their life? You might be doubting yourself as a parent or feel exhausted trying to find the right support. At The Child Psychology Hub we offer specialist clinical psychology assessment and therapy to children and their families. www.thechildpsychologyhub.co.uk
01332 215360 View 01332 215360
Photo of Chloe Hallatt, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Chloe Hallatt
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belper DE56
Hi, I'm Chloe. I live in Derbyshire with my partner and dog, enjoy exploring the countryside and drinking coffee with friends. I have a small practice in Belper (Derbyshire) as well as online. As the client, I will treat you as the expert on yourself, as no-one else knows exactly what it’s like to be you. Some of my clients I am currently working with, are exploring topics such as: bereavement, anxiety, work-related stress, sexuality, neurodiversity and relationships. I love working with clients to explore power and have noticed lots of clients exploring themes of finding their voice in therapy and establishing boundaries.
Hi, I'm Chloe. I live in Derbyshire with my partner and dog, enjoy exploring the countryside and drinking coffee with friends. I have a small practice in Belper (Derbyshire) as well as online. As the client, I will treat you as the expert on yourself, as no-one else knows exactly what it’s like to be you. Some of my clients I am currently working with, are exploring topics such as: bereavement, anxiety, work-related stress, sexuality, neurodiversity and relationships. I love working with clients to explore power and have noticed lots of clients exploring themes of finding their voice in therapy and establishing boundaries.
07359 674801 View 07359 674801
Photo of Tracey Sheldon, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Tracey Sheldon
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Belper DE56
Hello. I am a UKCP qualified and accredited psychotherapist/counsellor and work with both, individuals and couples. My training as an Integrative Psychotherapist draws from a variety of relational psychotherapy approaches and holds the philosophy that change can happen within the therapeutic relationship.
Hello. I am a UKCP qualified and accredited psychotherapist/counsellor and work with both, individuals and couples. My training as an Integrative Psychotherapist draws from a variety of relational psychotherapy approaches and holds the philosophy that change can happen within the therapeutic relationship.
020 4538 3915 View 020 4538 3915
Photo of Jayne Daniels - Jayne Daniels Counselling & Supervision Services, MBACP, Counsellor
Jayne Daniels Counselling & Supervision Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Alfreton DE55
ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH ANXIETY, DEPRESSED, WORTHLESS, IN CRISIS, UNABLE TO COPE BUT DON'T KNOW WHY? DO YOU NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO AND LISTEN TO YOU? I CAN HELP. CONTACT ME NOW FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION. My name is Jayne Daniels; I am an experienced, qualified integrative counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I offer different ways of working to suit your individual needs, including CBT, person centered and psycho dynamic. Counselling can help you make sense of what is happening in your life, support you through difficult and traumatic times and help you to live a happy and fulfilling life.
ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH ANXIETY, DEPRESSED, WORTHLESS, IN CRISIS, UNABLE TO COPE BUT DON'T KNOW WHY? DO YOU NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO AND LISTEN TO YOU? I CAN HELP. CONTACT ME NOW FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION. My name is Jayne Daniels; I am an experienced, qualified integrative counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I offer different ways of working to suit your individual needs, including CBT, person centered and psycho dynamic. Counselling can help you make sense of what is happening in your life, support you through difficult and traumatic times and help you to live a happy and fulfilling life.
07480 786480 View 07480 786480
Photo of Sharon Roe - Chesterfield Counselling, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Chesterfield Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S42  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing me as your counsellor. If you’re looking for a counsellor, you need to find someone who is going to be a good “fit” for you. I believe that the most important part of any counselling is having a good relationship with the therapist. You need to be able to trust me and feel comfortable talking to me about yourself. Otherwise you cannot get the best out of the experience. Contacting a counsellor for the first time can be daunting. You might be nervous or struggling to put things into words. It is okay if you are not quite sure what you want from this, I will do everything I can to put you at your ease.
Choosing me as your counsellor. If you’re looking for a counsellor, you need to find someone who is going to be a good “fit” for you. I believe that the most important part of any counselling is having a good relationship with the therapist. You need to be able to trust me and feel comfortable talking to me about yourself. Otherwise you cannot get the best out of the experience. Contacting a counsellor for the first time can be daunting. You might be nervous or struggling to put things into words. It is okay if you are not quite sure what you want from this, I will do everything I can to put you at your ease.
01246 488565 View 01246 488565
Photo of Dawn White - Chesterfield Sheffield Dronfield, MBACP, Counsellor
Dawn White - Chesterfield Sheffield Dronfield
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S41
I understand how hard the first step can be to ask for help, sometimes you just want to be heard and listened too, you may be feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or frustrated with moving your life forward. You may be feeling confused, and unsure about where your life is heading. I can help you become stronger and find new ways of coping, whilst understanding yourself, and others around you. You are a unique person and have already begun your unique journey of recovery, I am passionate about you taking back control over your life. I aim to support you through this by tailoring my approach to you.
I understand how hard the first step can be to ask for help, sometimes you just want to be heard and listened too, you may be feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or frustrated with moving your life forward. You may be feeling confused, and unsure about where your life is heading. I can help you become stronger and find new ways of coping, whilst understanding yourself, and others around you. You are a unique person and have already begun your unique journey of recovery, I am passionate about you taking back control over your life. I aim to support you through this by tailoring my approach to you.
01709 803907 View 01709 803907

See more therapy options for Matlock

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.