Autism Therapists in Hamilton

Photo of Madhu Munasinghe, MPsych, Psychologist
Madhu Munasinghe
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3216
Are you or your child facing mental health difficulties like depression, mental breakdown, self-harm, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship struggles, or self-esteem issues? With my expertise and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I can provide the support you need to overcome these challenges and regain control of your life. From emotional regulation to trauma healing, I assess and address various psychological problems such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), support in the diagnosis process of ADHD and more. Through assessment and therapy, you'll discover the tools to improve your present and embrace a brighter future
Are you or your child facing mental health difficulties like depression, mental breakdown, self-harm, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship struggles, or self-esteem issues? With my expertise and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I can provide the support you need to overcome these challenges and regain control of your life. From emotional regulation to trauma healing, I assess and address various psychological problems such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), support in the diagnosis process of ADHD and more. Through assessment and therapy, you'll discover the tools to improve your present and embrace a brighter future
0800 447 359 x65 View 0800 447 359 x65
Photo of Serafin Upton, Counsellor
Serafin Upton
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3200
Serafin Upton - Love and relationship science, no sweeteners, plenty of moxie. Providing specialist relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Qualified sex and relationship therapist - Infidelity and Betrayal - Queer Relationships / Relationship Anarchy/ Polyamory/ Open Relationships/ Kink - Neurodiversity - Autism - ADHD / Sex Addiction / Pornography / Intergenerational trauma.
Serafin Upton - Love and relationship science, no sweeteners, plenty of moxie. Providing specialist relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Qualified sex and relationship therapist - Infidelity and Betrayal - Queer Relationships / Relationship Anarchy/ Polyamory/ Open Relationships/ Kink - Neurodiversity - Autism - ADHD / Sex Addiction / Pornography / Intergenerational trauma.
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Photo of Nat Phillips | Bright Minds Counselling, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Nat Phillips | Bright Minds Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton 3204
I can support you to navigate a wide range of challenges, although I do specialise in: Self-compassion & self-esteem; LGBTQ+ affirming therapy; managing anxiety and panic attacks; body image / body acceptance; boundary setting and communication skills; self-discovery after autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Nau mai, haere mai Kia ora and welcome... My name is Nat, and I am an experienced counsellor working individually with adolescents and adults throughout Aotearoa. I offer both online and in-person counselling sessions for ages 13+.  My approach is person-centered and pluralistic – this means I’ll work collaboratively with you to set therapeutic goals that are meaningful to you personally. I’ll pull from a wide range of counselling theories and modalities and will tailor our sessions to ensure they’re as unique as you are. My aim is always to uplift and empower you as we co-navigate your journey to wellbeing.
I can support you to navigate a wide range of challenges, although I do specialise in: Self-compassion & self-esteem; LGBTQ+ affirming therapy; managing anxiety and panic attacks; body image / body acceptance; boundary setting and communication skills; self-discovery after autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Nau mai, haere mai Kia ora and welcome... My name is Nat, and I am an experienced counsellor working individually with adolescents and adults throughout Aotearoa. I offer both online and in-person counselling sessions for ages 13+.  My approach is person-centered and pluralistic – this means I’ll work collaboratively with you to set therapeutic goals that are meaningful to you personally. I’ll pull from a wide range of counselling theories and modalities and will tailor our sessions to ensure they’re as unique as you are. My aim is always to uplift and empower you as we co-navigate your journey to wellbeing.
0800 468 212 x87 View 0800 468 212 x87
Photo of Kristina Grace
Kristina Grace
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3200  (Online Only)
Specialties: Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, Mental Health, Trauma, Anxiety-Management, Dynamics in Relationships/Conflict, Religious or Spiritual Trauma, Self-Esteem, Goal-setting.
Perhaps you are overwhelmed with depression or anxiety, feel helpless or hopeless and you want to get yourself back again - enjoy life? Perhaps you find life is unfulfilling, you feel stuck in the same rut and struggle to change your life to be more what you would like it to be? Or are you experiencing conflict, relationship issues, self-esteem issues or stress and need help and support at this time? Together we can find a way forward. I am the author of the "Out of the Fog" programme delivered in group and individual therapy which has helped hundreds of people to recover/become well from depression/anxiety.
Specialties: Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, Mental Health, Trauma, Anxiety-Management, Dynamics in Relationships/Conflict, Religious or Spiritual Trauma, Self-Esteem, Goal-setting.
Perhaps you are overwhelmed with depression or anxiety, feel helpless or hopeless and you want to get yourself back again - enjoy life? Perhaps you find life is unfulfilling, you feel stuck in the same rut and struggle to change your life to be more what you would like it to be? Or are you experiencing conflict, relationship issues, self-esteem issues or stress and need help and support at this time? Together we can find a way forward. I am the author of the "Out of the Fog" programme delivered in group and individual therapy which has helped hundreds of people to recover/become well from depression/anxiety.
0800 627 050 x94 View 0800 627 050 x94
Photo of Stephanie Barnett, Psychologist
Stephanie Barnett
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3216  (Online Only)
Stephanie is a New Zealand Registered Clinical Psychologist. She has a strong empathetic approach and enjoys listening to others and absorbing their stories of how they uniquely experience life. Stephanie respects people for where they are at, whether that be going through a difficult time and/or dealing with other life hurdles, acknowledging each individuals as the expert of their own lives. Stephanie has also completed a Master’s thesis in the field of mindfulness and self-compassion – specifically mindful eating. This has led to her personal interest in the influence of food intake on our mood.
Stephanie is a New Zealand Registered Clinical Psychologist. She has a strong empathetic approach and enjoys listening to others and absorbing their stories of how they uniquely experience life. Stephanie respects people for where they are at, whether that be going through a difficult time and/or dealing with other life hurdles, acknowledging each individuals as the expert of their own lives. Stephanie has also completed a Master’s thesis in the field of mindfulness and self-compassion – specifically mindful eating. This has led to her personal interest in the influence of food intake on our mood.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Paula Moneypenny - Paula Moneypenny Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC, Counsellor
Paula Moneypenny Counsellor
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3216
I work with children, young people, adults, and groups to support them to stand up to problems and develop preferred ways of being. I work with clients to identify, reflect upon, and achieve the hopes and goals that are important to them in their life and relationships. I provide professional supervision to practitioners in the fields of health and social practice (including counselling, occupational therapy, nursing, midwifery, social work, and human services etc). I believe that a collaborative, safe and respectful therapeutic relationship enhances emotion regulation and promotes self-awareness and resilience.
I work with children, young people, adults, and groups to support them to stand up to problems and develop preferred ways of being. I work with clients to identify, reflect upon, and achieve the hopes and goals that are important to them in their life and relationships. I provide professional supervision to practitioners in the fields of health and social practice (including counselling, occupational therapy, nursing, midwifery, social work, and human services etc). I believe that a collaborative, safe and respectful therapeutic relationship enhances emotion regulation and promotes self-awareness and resilience.
0800 627 003 x24 View 0800 627 003 x24
Photo of Nicola Gibellini - Taking Steps Counselling, MCouns, Counsellor
Taking Steps Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3200
Waitlist for new clients
Kia Ora, Hello, my name is Nicola. I believe that each person has their own story which shapes who they are. Through my work, I strive to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into their own strengths, and help them bring about a preferred future. I believe everyone deserves to experience success, that we all have the strength within ourselves to overcome adversity. It is for this reason I work mainly using a Solution Focused approach, along with CBT, ACT and some psychoeducation.
Kia Ora, Hello, my name is Nicola. I believe that each person has their own story which shapes who they are. Through my work, I strive to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into their own strengths, and help them bring about a preferred future. I believe everyone deserves to experience success, that we all have the strength within ourselves to overcome adversity. It is for this reason I work mainly using a Solution Focused approach, along with CBT, ACT and some psychoeducation.
0800 627 024 x72 View 0800 627 024 x72
Photo of Hannah Orpin, Psychologist
Hannah Orpin
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3200  (Online Only)
Hannah is both Australian and New Zealand Māori psychologist (Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Kahungunu). After moving from New Zealand, Hannah spent a significant portion of her career working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Hannah's work across both countries enables her to provide a culturally safe space for effective and enjoyable therapy. Hannah works with adolescents and adults across a range of issues, and have a special interest in post traumatic stress disorder, abuse, borderline personality disorder, unexplained medical symptoms, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
Hannah is both Australian and New Zealand Māori psychologist (Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Kahungunu). After moving from New Zealand, Hannah spent a significant portion of her career working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Hannah's work across both countries enables her to provide a culturally safe space for effective and enjoyable therapy. Hannah works with adolescents and adults across a range of issues, and have a special interest in post traumatic stress disorder, abuse, borderline personality disorder, unexplained medical symptoms, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Grace Irvine, MNZAC, Counsellor
Grace Irvine
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3206
I work with all ages and specialise working with teens and young adults who are struggling. Challenges can come from anywhere; the loss of a loved one, a health condition, problems at school or work, anxiety, trauma, bullying, depression, attacks on dignity, abuse, or being spoken to in unhelpful ways. Problems can get you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless and stuck. I invite you to let me journey with you from that stuck place to hope and peace.
I work with all ages and specialise working with teens and young adults who are struggling. Challenges can come from anywhere; the loss of a loved one, a health condition, problems at school or work, anxiety, trauma, bullying, depression, attacks on dignity, abuse, or being spoken to in unhelpful ways. Problems can get you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless and stuck. I invite you to let me journey with you from that stuck place to hope and peace.
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Photo of Dan Goodkind, PhD, MNZCCP , Psychologist
Dan Goodkind
Psychologist, PhD, MNZCCP
Verified Verified
Hamilton 3204
Hi, I am a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist living and practicing in Nelson, New Zealand. My primary focus is providing psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves the careful application of techniques that help people change their behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and other personal characteristics in ways that enable them to thrive and cope with the stresses of living. I prefer to work with clients in person but if meeting in person is impossible or impractical, I can provide services online.
Hi, I am a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist living and practicing in Nelson, New Zealand. My primary focus is providing psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves the careful application of techniques that help people change their behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and other personal characteristics in ways that enable them to thrive and cope with the stresses of living. I prefer to work with clients in person but if meeting in person is impossible or impractical, I can provide services online.
0800 627 024 x44 View 0800 627 024 x44

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Sarah Miers, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Miers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3112
Waitlist for new clients
My specialist areas of practice include: maternal and perinatal mental health; women’s mental health; intrusive distressing thoughts and OCD; autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence; personal identity; mood and anxiety; life transitions; and skills for regulating emotion and tolerating distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and a full member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. I specialise in supporting young people and adults experiencing difficulties to grow in understanding of themselves and improve their daily functioning. I enjoy helping people foster self-compassion and gain skills to draw on in challenging times to move closer to the life they want for themselves.
My specialist areas of practice include: maternal and perinatal mental health; women’s mental health; intrusive distressing thoughts and OCD; autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence; personal identity; mood and anxiety; life transitions; and skills for regulating emotion and tolerating distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and a full member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. I specialise in supporting young people and adults experiencing difficulties to grow in understanding of themselves and improve their daily functioning. I enjoy helping people foster self-compassion and gain skills to draw on in challenging times to move closer to the life they want for themselves.
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Photo of Dr. Dominika Watts, Psychologist
Dr. Dominika Watts
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Auckland 0630
I have worked in adult community mental health since 2019 where I gained experience in providing assessments and therapy for psychological difficulties, and ADHD and Autism.
I am an Auckland based Clinical Psychologist experienced in assessment and treatment of different psychological difficulties. Maybe you are going through a rough patch or have something you would like to work on – I offer professional support to help you set and achieve short- and long-term goals.
I have worked in adult community mental health since 2019 where I gained experience in providing assessments and therapy for psychological difficulties, and ADHD and Autism.
I am an Auckland based Clinical Psychologist experienced in assessment and treatment of different psychological difficulties. Maybe you are going through a rough patch or have something you would like to work on – I offer professional support to help you set and achieve short- and long-term goals.
0800 627 004 x93 View 0800 627 004 x93
Photo of Rebecca Liao, MPsych, Psychologist
Rebecca Liao
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Auckland 0618  (Online Only)
On leave until April 2024. Individual clients who have worked with me in the past have experienced a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), challenges related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional dysregulation, parenting issues, and post-abuse psychological recovery. Although I do work with a wide range of life stages, I particularly enjoy working with children (school-age), young professionals, and parents.
On leave until April 2024. Individual clients who have worked with me in the past have experienced a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), challenges related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional dysregulation, parenting issues, and post-abuse psychological recovery. Although I do work with a wide range of life stages, I particularly enjoy working with children (school-age), young professionals, and parents.
0800 627 024 x57 View 0800 627 024 x57
Photo of Chris Neuenfeldt, Psychologist
Chris Neuenfeldt
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Auckland 0814  (Online Only)
Chris utilises psychological assessments to inform his treatment decisions and has experience evaluating: Adult ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults, Personality Disorders and Neurocognitive issues such as memory impairments.
Dr. Chris Neuenfeldt is a registered Clinical Psychologist and member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. He completed his studies in Colorado before moving to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018. Since then, he has practiced in Wellington and Napier, working with clients of all ages. He completed EMDRIA approved Level 1 & 2 pieces of training in 2010 and has advanced training in EMDR and substance use, recent traumatic events, group applications of EMDR, and performance enhancement utilising EMDR.
Chris utilises psychological assessments to inform his treatment decisions and has experience evaluating: Adult ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults, Personality Disorders and Neurocognitive issues such as memory impairments.
Dr. Chris Neuenfeldt is a registered Clinical Psychologist and member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. He completed his studies in Colorado before moving to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018. Since then, he has practiced in Wellington and Napier, working with clients of all ages. He completed EMDRIA approved Level 1 & 2 pieces of training in 2010 and has advanced training in EMDR and substance use, recent traumatic events, group applications of EMDR, and performance enhancement utilising EMDR.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Jessica Gu - Auckland Mental Wellness Centre, MPsych, NZPsS Member, Psychologist
Auckland Mental Wellness Centre
Psychologist, MPsych, NZPsS Member
Verified Verified
Auckland 1051
Specialty include: Anxiety, Addiction, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Issues (ADHD, Autism, developmental and behavioural issues, learning difficulty), Chronic Pain, Depression, Life Transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorder, Relationship Problems, Self Esteem, Sleep Disturbance/Insomnia , Trauma Related Disorder.
Auckland Mental Wellness Centre has a team of registered psychologists. We aim to provide professional, and confidential psychology service for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our psychologists are experienced and certified supervisors to provide Clinical Supervision and Training for professionals. Our service include general and specialised psychological assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of relational, psychological, emotional, social and behavioural issues. We also do assessment report to Court and Immigration NZ.
Specialty include: Anxiety, Addiction, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Issues (ADHD, Autism, developmental and behavioural issues, learning difficulty), Chronic Pain, Depression, Life Transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorder, Relationship Problems, Self Esteem, Sleep Disturbance/Insomnia , Trauma Related Disorder.
Auckland Mental Wellness Centre has a team of registered psychologists. We aim to provide professional, and confidential psychology service for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our psychologists are experienced and certified supervisors to provide Clinical Supervision and Training for professionals. Our service include general and specialised psychological assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of relational, psychological, emotional, social and behavioural issues. We also do assessment report to Court and Immigration NZ.
0800 627 050 x83 View 0800 627 050 x83
Photo of Olivia Sampson, NZCCA, Counsellor
Olivia Sampson
Counsellor, NZCCA
Verified Verified
Auckland 1026
I use person-centred, narrative and solution focused therapies to help people explore their feelings and move into their preferred identities that will propel them to live a life filled with joy and hope. I teach useful strategies that can help with anxiety, regulating feelings, confidence and social skills, as well as helping people find the root cause of the problems they face. I have experience working with all ages, and especially love my work with children, adolescents and young people. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity, autism and ADHD.
I use person-centred, narrative and solution focused therapies to help people explore their feelings and move into their preferred identities that will propel them to live a life filled with joy and hope. I teach useful strategies that can help with anxiety, regulating feelings, confidence and social skills, as well as helping people find the root cause of the problems they face. I have experience working with all ages, and especially love my work with children, adolescents and young people. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity, autism and ADHD.
0800 447 359 x16 View 0800 447 359 x16
Photo of Joanne Meldrum, MNZAC, Counsellor
Joanne Meldrum
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auckland 0610
Neuro-diversity and Autism.
Joanne facilitates therapeutic conversations that opens up space to explore what is important to you and what you accord value to, by making meaning of your emotional, behaviours and thought processes, through understanding the effect of problems within the relationships you have with yourself and others. When your relational needs/values are compromised, this can be a cause for conflict. ​The tools that Joanne provides enhances the four dimensions of well-being - mind, body, social and spirit. These dimensions are carefully considered when facilitating a transformational healing process with clients.
Neuro-diversity and Autism.
Joanne facilitates therapeutic conversations that opens up space to explore what is important to you and what you accord value to, by making meaning of your emotional, behaviours and thought processes, through understanding the effect of problems within the relationships you have with yourself and others. When your relational needs/values are compromised, this can be a cause for conflict. ​The tools that Joanne provides enhances the four dimensions of well-being - mind, body, social and spirit. These dimensions are carefully considered when facilitating a transformational healing process with clients.
0800 627 050 x22 View 0800 627 050 x22
Photo of Natalie Mack
Natalie Mack
Verified Verified
Orewa 0931
I am an experienced Occupational Therapist, counsellor and family therapist. I have worked in mental health for the past 20 plus years and love it. I enjoy working with youth and adults who are experiencing difficulties including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, problems at school, autism and adhd, family relationship issues, grief. I am grounded and practical in my approach, focusing on creating a safe space for you to talk and also develop skills in coping with your challenges . I would describe myself as purposefully integrative, meaning i draw from many models in my work, depending what I think will work best.
I am an experienced Occupational Therapist, counsellor and family therapist. I have worked in mental health for the past 20 plus years and love it. I enjoy working with youth and adults who are experiencing difficulties including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, problems at school, autism and adhd, family relationship issues, grief. I am grounded and practical in my approach, focusing on creating a safe space for you to talk and also develop skills in coping with your challenges . I would describe myself as purposefully integrative, meaning i draw from many models in my work, depending what I think will work best.
0800 627 003 x28 View 0800 627 003 x28
Photo of Alina Damari, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Alina Damari
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auckland 0618
I am a trained counsellor and I use a range of modalities and tools to meet the needs of my clients. Modalities include client centered and humanistic approach as well as strength based therapies and CBT, art therapy and gestalt. I have an interest and knowledge in working with ADHD and Autism. I work with an affirming approach to neurodiversity meaning that we often look about how to use your strengths and environment to work for and benefit you. I also work with you to create support structures and accommodations where needed.
I am a trained counsellor and I use a range of modalities and tools to meet the needs of my clients. Modalities include client centered and humanistic approach as well as strength based therapies and CBT, art therapy and gestalt. I have an interest and knowledge in working with ADHD and Autism. I work with an affirming approach to neurodiversity meaning that we often look about how to use your strengths and environment to work for and benefit you. I also work with you to create support structures and accommodations where needed.
0800 627 003 x65 View 0800 627 003 x65
Photo of Mona Ghanbari, PhD, Psychologist
Mona Ghanbari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Auckland 1052
I have expertise in conducting psychological assessments and providing treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults who are dealing with various challenges. This includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASD/C), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Emotional Dysregulation, Depression, Stress and Burnout, and Anxiety Disorders. My professional background includes working for the New Zealand Ministry of Education as an acute intervention provider, where I have experience assisting individuals who face behavioural and socio-emotional issues, as well as a range of mental health disorders.
I have expertise in conducting psychological assessments and providing treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults who are dealing with various challenges. This includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASD/C), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Emotional Dysregulation, Depression, Stress and Burnout, and Anxiety Disorders. My professional background includes working for the New Zealand Ministry of Education as an acute intervention provider, where I have experience assisting individuals who face behavioural and socio-emotional issues, as well as a range of mental health disorders.
0800 627 050 x81 View 0800 627 050 x81

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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.