Autism Psychiatrists in Littleton, CO
![Photo of Jadon Webb, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4c7d72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of our patients are nervous about psychiatric treatment but want to overcome symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, autism, psychosis, and more.
Are you considering psychiatric care, but worry about the short and long-term effects of medications? Our clients want to get well, but with the least medication possible. They want to be free from their problem! In addition to medication management, many really love discussing evidence-based natural solutions such as bright light therapy, triple chronotherapy, and vitamin infusions. For certain cases of depression, PTSD, OCD, and other concerns, some find great relief from low-dose oral ketamine or ketamine infusions.
Many of our patients are nervous about psychiatric treatment but want to overcome symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, autism, psychosis, and more.
Are you considering psychiatric care, but worry about the short and long-term effects of medications? Our clients want to get well, but with the least medication possible. They want to be free from their problem! In addition to medication management, many really love discussing evidence-based natural solutions such as bright light therapy, triple chronotherapy, and vitamin infusions. For certain cases of depression, PTSD, OCD, and other concerns, some find great relief from low-dose oral ketamine or ketamine infusions.
![Photo of Mary Beth Hutchinson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/500ea551-594c-4ad0-b6fd-3b07f583d8e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
![Photo of Jessica Stuenzi - The Courage Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47478c88-7977-4992-a749-b1aa248ebf28/1/320x400.png)
The Courage Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123 (Online Only)
We are a telehealth-only outpatient psychiatric practice that provides medication management and therapy to all residents of Colorado. We serve patients from the age of 5 and older, treating a variety of symptom presentations including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and more. We take multiple insurances including Medicaid and Medicare.
We are a telehealth-only outpatient psychiatric practice that provides medication management and therapy to all residents of Colorado. We serve patients from the age of 5 and older, treating a variety of symptom presentations including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and more. We take multiple insurances including Medicaid and Medicare.
![Photo of Katelyn Forsyth Pmhnp-Bc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b06d33d2-8e28-4f0a-b3bd-7da8f4ec5759/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katelyn Forsyth Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Do you find yourself thinking "I'm not good enough" or constantly second-guessing yourself? Does shame or guilt keep you stuck? Is anxiety or past trauma making it feel like life is out of control? Maybe you find yourself thinking unwanted negative thoughts that you just ruminate on daily. You might be feeling frustrated because it feels like you've tried everything to stop feeling this way. Perhaps you're seeing patterns in your relationships: poor or no communication, not setting important boundaries in your relationships, or avoiding conflict in your relationships which only makes things worse. You're not sure how to fix it.
Do you find yourself thinking "I'm not good enough" or constantly second-guessing yourself? Does shame or guilt keep you stuck? Is anxiety or past trauma making it feel like life is out of control? Maybe you find yourself thinking unwanted negative thoughts that you just ruminate on daily. You might be feeling frustrated because it feels like you've tried everything to stop feeling this way. Perhaps you're seeing patterns in your relationships: poor or no communication, not setting important boundaries in your relationships, or avoiding conflict in your relationships which only makes things worse. You're not sure how to fix it.
![Photo of Anna Libby, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4e16a9-ade2-42d0-b339-465d17996172/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Libby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123 (Online Only)
You’ll feel empowered to control your medication management by actively participating in decision making and follow up care with Anna. You’ll enjoy the humor Anna infuses into treatment, and can look forward to her using visual images and written materials to communicate important information. Anna helps her clients overcome apprehension related to using medication and complimentary therapies to treat mental health conditions through compassionate and educational sessions. She uses evidence-based rating scales and and active listening to assist clients with identifying their mental health needs/goals.
You’ll feel empowered to control your medication management by actively participating in decision making and follow up care with Anna. You’ll enjoy the humor Anna infuses into treatment, and can look forward to her using visual images and written materials to communicate important information. Anna helps her clients overcome apprehension related to using medication and complimentary therapies to treat mental health conditions through compassionate and educational sessions. She uses evidence-based rating scales and and active listening to assist clients with identifying their mental health needs/goals.
![Photo of Esther Okanlawon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35477025-e388-4336-84fe-d1d1e6a854d3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in healthcare for the past 14 years. Started out my career as a nurse in homecare in NY and also worked on the Navajo reservation. As an FNP, I have worked in primary care, wellness health and treated patients with substance use disorder. As a PMHNP, I am going to help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities. I also offer suboxone services. Call or email today to learn more.
Accepting New Patients! I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in healthcare for the past 14 years. Started out my career as a nurse in homecare in NY and also worked on the Navajo reservation. As an FNP, I have worked in primary care, wellness health and treated patients with substance use disorder. As a PMHNP, I am going to help you achieve your goal of functioning to your highest capabilities. I also offer suboxone services. Call or email today to learn more.
![Photo of Jeffrey Byrne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb4331f1-cafe-4cc2-963d-60e87d676325/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Byrne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120 (Online Only)
I have been working in healthcare since 2015, starting as a behavioral health technician with the Cleveland Clinic. I began work as a nurse in 2017, and have worked in various mental health settings including inpatient adult/adolescent psychiatry, as well as the psychiatric emergency department before graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Colorado.
I have been working in healthcare since 2015, starting as a behavioral health technician with the Cleveland Clinic. I began work as a nurse in 2017, and have worked in various mental health settings including inpatient adult/adolescent psychiatry, as well as the psychiatric emergency department before graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Colorado.
![Photo of Julie Nguyen, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4326bf6a-266e-4755-b575-327ed90653a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80123 (Online Only)
Hi there! First of all, thank you. Thank you for taking the first steps toward healing. It is an incredibly big and possibly scary decision, but I’m glad you’re here. My main goal is to guide you in managing your medications in order to support you in your healing process. I use research and evidence-based practices to assist in choosing the best regimen for you, but ultimately, you know your body best. As your provider, I will actively listen to your concerns without any judgment and formulate a holistic treatment plan in collaboration with you. I am accepting new patients!
Hi there! First of all, thank you. Thank you for taking the first steps toward healing. It is an incredibly big and possibly scary decision, but I’m glad you’re here. My main goal is to guide you in managing your medications in order to support you in your healing process. I use research and evidence-based practices to assist in choosing the best regimen for you, but ultimately, you know your body best. As your provider, I will actively listen to your concerns without any judgment and formulate a holistic treatment plan in collaboration with you. I am accepting new patients!
![Photo of Amanda Jayaraman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2588ee74-a0c0-492f-bbab-b87f84f8194d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Jayaraman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80123
I'm Amanda Jayaraman, a board-certified PMHNP with over 20 years helping people navigate the complexities of their healthcare. Throughout my career, I've gained extensive experience in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, crisis, residential, and correctional facilities. I tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs across the lifespan for a variety of diagnoses such as bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space to feel comfortable discussing challenges and working collaboratively towards goals.
I'm Amanda Jayaraman, a board-certified PMHNP with over 20 years helping people navigate the complexities of their healthcare. Throughout my career, I've gained extensive experience in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, crisis, residential, and correctional facilities. I tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs across the lifespan for a variety of diagnoses such as bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space to feel comfortable discussing challenges and working collaboratively towards goals.
![Photo of Ashley Lindeman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b78bb04-6fb0-43e6-84c6-026cc433724e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley, a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C), recently joined our Bloom Mental Health team in Littleton, CO. She provides medication management and plays a key role in our ketamine clinic. Ashley's holistic approach to mental health transcends psychiatric concerns, acknowledging the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being. Drawing from her background as a personal trainer, Ashley enjoys incorporating lifestyle changes into a comprehensive treatment plan, enhancing medication management.
Ashley, a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C), recently joined our Bloom Mental Health team in Littleton, CO. She provides medication management and plays a key role in our ketamine clinic. Ashley's holistic approach to mental health transcends psychiatric concerns, acknowledging the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being. Drawing from her background as a personal trainer, Ashley enjoys incorporating lifestyle changes into a comprehensive treatment plan, enhancing medication management.
![Photo of Amy Steele, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb8e537-81dd-4830-81d5-6644a0cbb294/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Steele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80125 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Hello! I am a master’s prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing treatment across the lifespan. I provide mental health diagnosis, treatment, and medication management for mood disorders, emotional/behavioral disturbances, attention/concentration disturbances, troubled thought patterns, and trauma. I have a particular interest in children and adolescents dealing with depression and anxiety. To schedule an appointment, please visit peakinteractivewellness.com and submit an appointment inquiry, requesting me as your preferred provider.
Accepting New Clients! Hello! I am a master’s prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing treatment across the lifespan. I provide mental health diagnosis, treatment, and medication management for mood disorders, emotional/behavioral disturbances, attention/concentration disturbances, troubled thought patterns, and trauma. I have a particular interest in children and adolescents dealing with depression and anxiety. To schedule an appointment, please visit peakinteractivewellness.com and submit an appointment inquiry, requesting me as your preferred provider.
15 Second Videos
Mary Beth Hutchinson
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Amanda Jayaraman
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Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
![Photo of Christopher Archer, PMHNP, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ecb51ad-05c4-4f16-8dd1-ac2802d0c3f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80120
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
Accepting New Patients! Christopher Archer, Maj (ret), USAF, PMHNP/GNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) with nearly 16 years of experience. In 2000, he joined the United States Air Force, where he worked as a clinical nurse in Pediatrics, Family Practice, Flight/Aerospace Medicine, and also had the opportunity to be a team leader on Vice President Dick Cheney's medical support team. Chris is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Stress, Trauma and PTSD - as well as many other conditions.
![Photo of Chelsea Keselman, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/903b0453-bae4-430d-8687-ad9d2b0862ec/1/320x400.png)
Chelsea Keselman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120 (Online Only)
Meet Chelsea, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a compassionate, patient-focused approach to mental healthcare and wellness. Born and raised in the Midwest, Chelsea relocated to Denver with her husband and two children to pursue her passion for helping those struggling with their mental health. With experience across settings - from hospitals to private practice - Chelsea leverages her background in nursing and expertise in a variety of mental health conditions to provide medication management and brief supportive therapy to adolescents and adults.
Meet Chelsea, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a compassionate, patient-focused approach to mental healthcare and wellness. Born and raised in the Midwest, Chelsea relocated to Denver with her husband and two children to pursue her passion for helping those struggling with their mental health. With experience across settings - from hospitals to private practice - Chelsea leverages her background in nursing and expertise in a variety of mental health conditions to provide medication management and brief supportive therapy to adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Meagan Holland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6368c9-1d72-41d7-8261-dcc58d28abd0/1/320x400.jpeg)
My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care. Mental health has always held a special place in my heart. Naturally, I pursued my Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Regis College. My commitment to learning doesn't stop there – I'm constantly seeking new ways to expand my knowledge and better serve my patients.
My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care. Mental health has always held a special place in my heart. Naturally, I pursued my Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Regis College. My commitment to learning doesn't stop there – I'm constantly seeking new ways to expand my knowledge and better serve my patients.
![Photo of Alexa Potts, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9f5542b-7974-4930-a499-e72fab5d7a20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Potts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80127
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS *Accepts Medicaid including CO Access, Health First, RMHP, CHP+ Anthem/BCBS, United, and limited Cigna/Evernorth* I'm a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice who believes that heart, soul, hope, and intention are just a few curative factors that can facilitate healing. I make listening to my patients my top priority, and I stand by providing kind, safe, ethical, and honest care, which includes providing adequate medication education. I believe in a whole-person, humanistic approach. Please find our website at www.rockyheightswellness.com.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS *Accepts Medicaid including CO Access, Health First, RMHP, CHP+ Anthem/BCBS, United, and limited Cigna/Evernorth* I'm a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice who believes that heart, soul, hope, and intention are just a few curative factors that can facilitate healing. I make listening to my patients my top priority, and I stand by providing kind, safe, ethical, and honest care, which includes providing adequate medication education. I believe in a whole-person, humanistic approach. Please find our website at www.rockyheightswellness.com.
![Photo of Rachel Hatch, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5395afe1-484a-471a-9bf9-cc108ea7bd17/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a holistic approach that promotes wellness and dignity through caring for the mind, body and spirit of the person. I have a passion for keeping up with the most recent pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for psychiatric disorders. I am ready to work together with you on your mental health journey.
I believe in a holistic approach that promotes wellness and dignity through caring for the mind, body and spirit of the person. I have a passion for keeping up with the most recent pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for psychiatric disorders. I am ready to work together with you on your mental health journey.
![Photo of Robert Benge, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/171ea477-e130-4dc8-8d05-4bc2916cb3af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Benge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123 (Online Only)
Updated August 2024: Click the "My Website" button on this page, as the quickest way to schedule an appointment with me...I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of experience. 10 years as a psychiatric nurse and 6 years as a prescribing PMHNP-BC. I provide psychiatric evaluations and treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. This sounds very clinical, but personally I am down to earth and have empathy for everyone I work with.
Updated August 2024: Click the "My Website" button on this page, as the quickest way to schedule an appointment with me...I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of experience. 10 years as a psychiatric nurse and 6 years as a prescribing PMHNP-BC. I provide psychiatric evaluations and treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. This sounds very clinical, but personally I am down to earth and have empathy for everyone I work with.
![Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb09f51-75ca-485f-9ca0-3f4bb749a77c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80130
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
![Photo of Patricia Lawrence - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f3f470a-b45b-4ec1-8a88-b90700398aa8/2/320x400.png)
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123 (Online Only)
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
![Photo of Charolette Lippolis Condon, DO, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53159464-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients in Colorado - Are you struggling to get the help you need for your child? Have you seen professionals already, but things are not getting better? I am Board certified in child, adolescent & adult psychiatry and specialize in complex cases and second opinions. I work together with patients and families, to achieve goals as quickly and effectively, as possible. It begins with an accurate diagnosis and a plan that is clear, measurable and understandable. We will work together to track progress and make changes to treatment, as needed, in order to achieve your treatment goals.
Accepting New Patients in Colorado - Are you struggling to get the help you need for your child? Have you seen professionals already, but things are not getting better? I am Board certified in child, adolescent & adult psychiatry and specialize in complex cases and second opinions. I work together with patients and families, to achieve goals as quickly and effectively, as possible. It begins with an accurate diagnosis and a plan that is clear, measurable and understandable. We will work together to track progress and make changes to treatment, as needed, in order to achieve your treatment goals.
See more therapy options for Littleton
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Autism Psychiatrists
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.