Autism Psychiatrists in Madison, CT

Photo of Richard Louis O'Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard Louis O'Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Dr. O'Sullivan is a Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital trained psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry and conducting psychiatric research. He offers medication management, psychotherapy and psychiatric home visits services. He sees patients of all ages including the elderly.
Dr. O'Sullivan is a Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital trained psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry and conducting psychiatric research. He offers medication management, psychotherapy and psychiatric home visits services. He sees patients of all ages including the elderly.
(203) 987-6466 View (203) 987-6466
Photo of Lauren J. Janush, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren J. Janush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Accepting new patients and families...I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 5-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
Accepting new patients and families...I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 5-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
(475) 234-4113 View (475) 234-4113
Photo of Michael B Garland, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael B Garland
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Welcome, I'm a child, adolescent, & adult psychoanalyst & psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, & their parents. I trained at the University of Chicago & Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, & other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, & needs. By integrating current evidence-based treatments with neuroscience & a psychoanalytic understanding of the mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, & freedom.
Welcome, I'm a child, adolescent, & adult psychoanalyst & psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, & their parents. I trained at the University of Chicago & Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, & other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, & needs. By integrating current evidence-based treatments with neuroscience & a psychoanalytic understanding of the mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, & freedom.
(203) 664-5850 View (203) 664-5850
Photo of Lee Weber, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lee Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
(860) 852-1566 View (860) 852-1566

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ryan Dillon, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Dillon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
I take a safe, comfortable, and multifaceted approach towards treatment. I have experience and have been trained in family psychiatry. Therefore, I treat all ages and populations. My primary area of focus is that of diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric medication management. However, I believe that psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment. I will provide this type of services if I feel I can help! If not, I will refer you to the appropriate therapist. Accordingly, communicating and involving treatment from other providers and "looking at the big picture" is essential!
I take a safe, comfortable, and multifaceted approach towards treatment. I have experience and have been trained in family psychiatry. Therefore, I treat all ages and populations. My primary area of focus is that of diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric medication management. However, I believe that psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment. I will provide this type of services if I feel I can help! If not, I will refer you to the appropriate therapist. Accordingly, communicating and involving treatment from other providers and "looking at the big picture" is essential!
(203) 433-2550 View (203) 433-2550
Photo of Jay Seigel, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jay Seigel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
(203) 717-4433 View (203) 717-4433

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Rangsun Sitthichai, MD, Psychiatrist
Rangsun Sitthichai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117  (Online Only)
In addition, I have extensive experience providing evaluation and treatment services to transitional age youth and young adults with a range of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
I approach the clients by understanding each client as a whole person, deep respect for individuals as unique human beings by using a creative process and open-ended communication. I am mindful in prescribing medications. My ultimate treatment goals not only target the treatment of mental health problems, but I will take effort to facilitate clients’ personal growth and improve their vitality.
In addition, I have extensive experience providing evaluation and treatment services to transitional age youth and young adults with a range of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
I approach the clients by understanding each client as a whole person, deep respect for individuals as unique human beings by using a creative process and open-ended communication. I am mindful in prescribing medications. My ultimate treatment goals not only target the treatment of mental health problems, but I will take effort to facilitate clients’ personal growth and improve their vitality.
(860) 934-0523 View (860) 934-0523
Photo of David A. Krulee, MD, Psychiatrist
David A. Krulee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Dr. Krulee specializes in the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, traumatic stress and dissociative disorders, psychotic disorders, and many others. With over 37 years of clinical experience treating many thousands of patients, you will find expert assessment and psychopharmacology services. Dr. Krulee is on the consulting staff at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center and Hartford Healthcare/Institute of Living and provides consultations to pediatricians, internists, family practitioners, and therapists throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Dr. Krulee specializes in the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, traumatic stress and dissociative disorders, psychotic disorders, and many others. With over 37 years of clinical experience treating many thousands of patients, you will find expert assessment and psychopharmacology services. Dr. Krulee is on the consulting staff at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center and Hartford Healthcare/Institute of Living and provides consultations to pediatricians, internists, family practitioners, and therapists throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.
(860) 631-4415 View (860) 631-4415
Photo of Margaret M Rudin, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret M Rudin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Are you a teen or parent looking for someone who can help you or your child feel better about themselves at school or home? As both an APRN and psychologist, I specialize in treating children and adolescents with depression, anxiety, learning disorders, ADHD, as well as symptoms associated with autism. Together we will work on a plan to determine which symptoms could be addressed with therapy, psychotropic medication or a behavioral plan; whether academic or psychological testing is indicated, as well as an IEP or 504 plan. Medical concerns influencing mental health can be coordinated with PCP through lab work and consultation.
Are you a teen or parent looking for someone who can help you or your child feel better about themselves at school or home? As both an APRN and psychologist, I specialize in treating children and adolescents with depression, anxiety, learning disorders, ADHD, as well as symptoms associated with autism. Together we will work on a plan to determine which symptoms could be addressed with therapy, psychotropic medication or a behavioral plan; whether academic or psychological testing is indicated, as well as an IEP or 504 plan. Medical concerns influencing mental health can be coordinated with PCP through lab work and consultation.
(860) 854-4578 View (860) 854-4578
Hassan M Minhas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
Dr. Minhas is the leading expert in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Additionally, he is uniquely qualified to treat psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. He is the Chief of Autism Services at the Hospital for Special Care, the medical director at Turnbridge Treatment programs, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at Yale University Department of Law and Psychiatry. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Minhas is a forensic expert, having evaluated and testified at numerous criminal and civil trials.
Dr. Minhas is the leading expert in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Additionally, he is uniquely qualified to treat psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. He is the Chief of Autism Services at the Hospital for Special Care, the medical director at Turnbridge Treatment programs, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at Yale University Department of Law and Psychiatry. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Minhas is a forensic expert, having evaluated and testified at numerous criminal and civil trials.
(203) 604-9000 View (203) 604-9000
Photo of Misty Stafford, MD, Psychiatrist
Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06520  (Online Only)
My training was completed at Brown University with a sub-specialty focus in treating neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, as well as expertise in anxiety, OCD, depression, and mood disorders.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
My training was completed at Brown University with a sub-specialty focus in treating neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, as well as expertise in anxiety, OCD, depression, and mood disorders.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(860) 718-4351 View (860) 718-4351
Photo of Francisco A Ripepi, MD, Psychiatrist
Francisco A Ripepi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
Accepting New patients at this time. I am a Child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as adult psychiatrist who specializes in Developmental Disorders, including Autism and intellectual disabilities. I also specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood disorders in all ages. My training in child and adolescent psychiatry is tailored to help children and families. I believe that the modality of treatment should be appropriate to the patient's needs.
Accepting New patients at this time. I am a Child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as adult psychiatrist who specializes in Developmental Disorders, including Autism and intellectual disabilities. I also specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood disorders in all ages. My training in child and adolescent psychiatry is tailored to help children and families. I believe that the modality of treatment should be appropriate to the patient's needs.
(860) 846-3740 View (860) 846-3740
Photo of Amit Rathi MD, Psychiatrist
Amit Rathi MD
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06117
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and thought disorders. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications, where necessary.
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and thought disorders. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications, where necessary.
(860) 910-1088 View (860) 910-1088
Photo of Anastasia Okoniewski, RN, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anastasia Okoniewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
I am a child and adolescent mental health clinical nurse specialist and lifespan psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love working with children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, those folk on the autism spectrum and the cooccurring disorders often seen in those with learning and neuro-cognitive differences, including anxiety, trauma and depression. I also have experience helping young women with hormone imbalances related to endometriosis, PCOS and other autoimmune or endocrine disorders. My specialty is in mindful neuropharmacology and medication management as well as integrating complementary and alternative treatment methods when possible.
I am a child and adolescent mental health clinical nurse specialist and lifespan psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love working with children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, those folk on the autism spectrum and the cooccurring disorders often seen in those with learning and neuro-cognitive differences, including anxiety, trauma and depression. I also have experience helping young women with hormone imbalances related to endometriosis, PCOS and other autoimmune or endocrine disorders. My specialty is in mindful neuropharmacology and medication management as well as integrating complementary and alternative treatment methods when possible.
(203) 763-4036 x707 View (203) 763-4036 x707
Photo of Keeva Madden, MD, Psychiatrist
Keeva Madden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darien, CT 06820  (Online Only)
Madden is well-versed in a wide range of conditions, but she particularly excels in addressing ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorder.
Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Madden attended the University of Ottawa as an undergraduate, before attending Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine. She then completed her adult psychiatry residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, where she served as chief resident, subsequently completing her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Vermont. Dr. Madden treats most conditions, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorder. She treats children, teenagers, and adults, providing medication management, as well as psychotherapy.
Madden is well-versed in a wide range of conditions, but she particularly excels in addressing ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorder.
Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Madden attended the University of Ottawa as an undergraduate, before attending Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine. She then completed her adult psychiatry residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, where she served as chief resident, subsequently completing her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Vermont. Dr. Madden treats most conditions, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorder. She treats children, teenagers, and adults, providing medication management, as well as psychotherapy.
(201) 431-3271 View (201) 431-3271
Photo of Michael Chase - Ascend Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ascend Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Canton, CT 06019
I have a focused, and patient centered approach to medication evaluation and management, individual therapy, family counseling, autism spectrum support, and behavioral support.
Now Welcoming New Clients. My focus is on individual therapy for children, adolescents and adults. Assisting those affected by stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant life alterations. In these challenging times, seeking support is not only acceptable but necessary. As someone who is a seasoned professional, I understand the struggle to find professionals with direct experience and a deep comprehension of high-stress situations. Let's take the difficulty and guess work out of your mental health treatment.
I have a focused, and patient centered approach to medication evaluation and management, individual therapy, family counseling, autism spectrum support, and behavioral support.
Now Welcoming New Clients. My focus is on individual therapy for children, adolescents and adults. Assisting those affected by stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant life alterations. In these challenging times, seeking support is not only acceptable but necessary. As someone who is a seasoned professional, I understand the struggle to find professionals with direct experience and a deep comprehension of high-stress situations. Let's take the difficulty and guess work out of your mental health treatment.
(860) 717-3368 View (860) 717-3368
Photo of Maria J Vega, MD, Psychiatrist
Maria J Vega
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06520
I am an experienced, board certified psychiatrist. I earned my medical degree in 1995 and completed a Residency in adult psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Fl. I then did a 2 year fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry I worked as an assistant professor at Jackson Memorial Hospital from 2002-2005. I was then voluntary faculty at the Univ of Miami, Dept of Psychiatry. I have vast experience treating eating disorders, ADHD, and autism, via both medication and/or therapy. I am currently residing in both Ga and Fl. I travel to Ct often, to visit son at Yale. I offer Telemed services, and fluent in Spanish.
I am an experienced, board certified psychiatrist. I earned my medical degree in 1995 and completed a Residency in adult psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Fl. I then did a 2 year fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry I worked as an assistant professor at Jackson Memorial Hospital from 2002-2005. I was then voluntary faculty at the Univ of Miami, Dept of Psychiatry. I have vast experience treating eating disorders, ADHD, and autism, via both medication and/or therapy. I am currently residing in both Ga and Fl. I travel to Ct often, to visit son at Yale. I offer Telemed services, and fluent in Spanish.
(305) 834-4419 View (305) 834-4419
Photo of Milton Jason Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Milton Jason Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in people suffering from neurological disorders, work thoroughly with my clients I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
I have a particular interest in people suffering from neurological disorders, work thoroughly with my clients I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
(860) 864-5528 View (860) 864-5528
Photo of Dr. Emily Watkins, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Emily Watkins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06117  (Online Only)
I specialize in conducting evaluations for Autism and ADHD for adults who were not diagnosed in childhood.
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
I specialize in conducting evaluations for Autism and ADHD for adults who were not diagnosed in childhood.
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
(860) 851-4086 View (860) 851-4086
Photo of Dr. Amy R. Salerno - Dr. Amy R. Salerno, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amy R. Salerno
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06105
My specialities include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, and Medication Management.
PLEASE note: I am taking a limited number of new patients at this time. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
My specialities include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, and Medication Management.
PLEASE note: I am taking a limited number of new patients at this time. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
(860) 935-6556 View (860) 935-6556
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.