Autism Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Ihab Ibrahim, MD, Psychiatrist
Ihab Ibrahim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Ibrahim for a variety of reasons, including psychiatry consultations, depression, anxiety, autism, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
Ibrahim for a variety of reasons, including psychiatry consultations, depression, anxiety, autism, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
(347) 380-9716 View (347) 380-9716
Photo of Dr. David Szuster - Calmbridge Psychiatric Wellness , MD , Psychiatrist
Calmbridge Psychiatric Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Our practice includes board-certified Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. We also provide services in English and Spanish. Our areas of specialty include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, OCD, ADHD, and Major Depression Disorder. When necessary we prescribe psychotropic medications but we also provide different forms of psychotherapy. We also help our patients
Our practice includes board-certified Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. We also provide services in English and Spanish. Our areas of specialty include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, OCD, ADHD, and Major Depression Disorder. When necessary we prescribe psychotropic medications but we also provide different forms of psychotherapy. We also help our patients
(516) 469-7298 View (516) 469-7298
Photo of Yelena Geller-Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11235  (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(718) 550-6731 View (718) 550-6731
Photo of Vikas Malik, MD, Psychiatrist
Vikas Malik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I help patients & families cope with myriad of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Learning Disorders and behavioral issues effecting children and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, Attention problems can cause significant difficulties in life. I provide medication management and at my Garden City location offer TMS therapy. TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is non-invasive treatment for Depression for patients who have not responded to medications and therapy. It does not require anesthesia and only requires at an average 20-30 minutes. Most patients are able to drive back home and resume daily activities.
I help patients & families cope with myriad of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Learning Disorders and behavioral issues effecting children and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, Attention problems can cause significant difficulties in life. I provide medication management and at my Garden City location offer TMS therapy. TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is non-invasive treatment for Depression for patients who have not responded to medications and therapy. It does not require anesthesia and only requires at an average 20-30 minutes. Most patients are able to drive back home and resume daily activities.
(347) 370-3815 View (347) 370-3815
Photo of Tiffany Lawson, PMHNP-B, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, RN
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
I have personal and professional experience with autism and the mutifaceted approach individuals need as they age from behavioral recommendations, medication management, gold standard Applied Behavioral Analysis ( ABA), family needs related to burn out and working with education providers for growth and success.
With over a two decades of experience in nursing and mental health care combined, I specialize in understanding and meeting the unique needs of each individual. My journey began as a Certified Nursing Assistant, I loved caring for others and pursued the following: Licensed Practical Nurse , Associate of Science in Nursing, followed by a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and a Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health from Hunter College. I have worked in various challenging roles, including emergency room case management, utilization review, community nursing ,child and adult psychiatry.
I have personal and professional experience with autism and the mutifaceted approach individuals need as they age from behavioral recommendations, medication management, gold standard Applied Behavioral Analysis ( ABA), family needs related to burn out and working with education providers for growth and success.
With over a two decades of experience in nursing and mental health care combined, I specialize in understanding and meeting the unique needs of each individual. My journey began as a Certified Nursing Assistant, I loved caring for others and pursued the following: Licensed Practical Nurse , Associate of Science in Nursing, followed by a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and a Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health from Hunter College. I have worked in various challenging roles, including emergency room case management, utilization review, community nursing ,child and adult psychiatry.
(929) 552-8267 View (929) 552-8267
Photo of Tejal Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist
Tejal Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I have expertise in neurodevelopment disorders, early identification of psychosis, autism, ADHD, and mood disorders.
Guided by my belief that authentic, meaningful relationships drive high quality care, I partner with our patients and families to first treat psychiatric symptoms, and then move into a preventative approach. I help my patients, both kids or adults, to discover and build on their own strengths, educate them about the science behind how their brains work, and then provide them with the necessary tools to become their own health expert. I refuse to believe that my patients cannot get better, and I work tirelessly with you to help you build a better life.
I have expertise in neurodevelopment disorders, early identification of psychosis, autism, ADHD, and mood disorders.
Guided by my belief that authentic, meaningful relationships drive high quality care, I partner with our patients and families to first treat psychiatric symptoms, and then move into a preventative approach. I help my patients, both kids or adults, to discover and build on their own strengths, educate them about the science behind how their brains work, and then provide them with the necessary tools to become their own health expert. I refuse to believe that my patients cannot get better, and I work tirelessly with you to help you build a better life.
(917) 512-6907 View (917) 512-6907
Photo of Dr. Michael Chung, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Chung
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
My special interests lie in the foray of ADHD, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder and am skilled at treating depression, bipolar-spectrum, anxiety, panic, and psychotic-spectrum psychiatric conditions.
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet.
My special interests lie in the foray of ADHD, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder and am skilled at treating depression, bipolar-spectrum, anxiety, panic, and psychotic-spectrum psychiatric conditions.
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet.
(929) 447-0092 View (929) 447-0092
Photo of Alexander Ivan Gumbs, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexander Ivan Gumbs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216
Alexander Gumbs, FNP/PMHNP-BC is a dual board-certified practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine. Mr. Gumbs uses an integrative holistic approach to treat the bodies and minds of his patients. He is proficient in treating those across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and seniors). Community focus is his passion. He has experience treating disadvantaged populations, such as the homeless and those in the criminal justice system transitioning back to civilian life. Mr. Gumbs treats those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, autism, insomnia, dementia, and postpartum depression.
Alexander Gumbs, FNP/PMHNP-BC is a dual board-certified practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine. Mr. Gumbs uses an integrative holistic approach to treat the bodies and minds of his patients. He is proficient in treating those across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and seniors). Community focus is his passion. He has experience treating disadvantaged populations, such as the homeless and those in the criminal justice system transitioning back to civilian life. Mr. Gumbs treats those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, autism, insomnia, dementia, and postpartum depression.
(516) 464-3006 View (516) 464-3006
Photo of Dr. Mark Nakhla, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Nakhla
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist. I utilize a compassionate, collaborative, and recovery-oriented approach to support each of my patients in living meaningful and sustainably healthy lives. I offer psychotherapy and medication management approaches where appropriate. I work with adults of all ages and treat a wide variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and interpersonal challenges.
I am a board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist. I utilize a compassionate, collaborative, and recovery-oriented approach to support each of my patients in living meaningful and sustainably healthy lives. I offer psychotherapy and medication management approaches where appropriate. I work with adults of all ages and treat a wide variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and interpersonal challenges.
(347) 941-1342 View (347) 941-1342
Photo of Leah Molina, APRN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Molina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
As an Outpatient Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. With a Master's in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and over 14 years of nursing experience, including extensive work at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, I'm committed to advancing mental health practice. I prioritize creating positive cognitive and behavioral changes for my clients and their families. My expertise includes ACLS, BLS, and PRI certifications, enabling me to deliver high-quality care across diverse settings.
As an Outpatient Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. With a Master's in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and over 14 years of nursing experience, including extensive work at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, I'm committed to advancing mental health practice. I prioritize creating positive cognitive and behavioral changes for my clients and their families. My expertise includes ACLS, BLS, and PRI certifications, enabling me to deliver high-quality care across diverse settings.
(646) 921-6765 View (646) 921-6765
Photo of Tanya Monroe, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tanya Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11240
Ms. Tanya Monroe is an adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner. Working at Orenda Psychiatry in New York State, she accepts patients suffering from hyperactivity disorders (ADD / ADHD), anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She worked with children and adolescents at Four Winds Hospital & New York Presbyterian Hospital. Some of her most rewarding professional moments have been helping her patients overcome addictions so that they can go on to lead a happy and fulfilling life.
Ms. Tanya Monroe is an adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner. Working at Orenda Psychiatry in New York State, she accepts patients suffering from hyperactivity disorders (ADD / ADHD), anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She worked with children and adolescents at Four Winds Hospital & New York Presbyterian Hospital. Some of her most rewarding professional moments have been helping her patients overcome addictions so that they can go on to lead a happy and fulfilling life.
(646) 917-9294 View (646) 917-9294
Photo of Kevin Lam, MD, Psychiatrist
Kevin Lam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Are you having difficulty with work, school, relationships or feeling stuck, anxious or unhappy? I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing adults, children and adolescents with compassionate, expert care incorporating the latest evidence based practices and integrative approaches to help you feel better. I specialize in work with children and adolescents in the areas of mood, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, tics, developmental and behavioral issues. I also welcome adults to my practice who may need help with depression, anxiety/panic, OCD, ADHD or struggling with stress related to work, relationships, transitions or career development.
Are you having difficulty with work, school, relationships or feeling stuck, anxious or unhappy? I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing adults, children and adolescents with compassionate, expert care incorporating the latest evidence based practices and integrative approaches to help you feel better. I specialize in work with children and adolescents in the areas of mood, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, tics, developmental and behavioral issues. I also welcome adults to my practice who may need help with depression, anxiety/panic, OCD, ADHD or struggling with stress related to work, relationships, transitions or career development.
(646) 663-4145 View (646) 663-4145
Photo of Kelli Hamilton, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelli Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
(347) 707-7735 View (347) 707-7735
Photo of Jean Rigaud Cetoute, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jean Rigaud Cetoute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11236  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health. I specialized in several aspects of mental health such as mood disorders, eating disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, and anxiety disorders. I Provide comprehensive evaluations and medication management. I have a solid foundation to customize a treatment plan based on your specific needs. In a world where life is so unpredictable, my goal is to assure that I meet your needs to walk you through the dark tunnel. I look forward to helping you in times of uncertainty. Feel free to contact me.
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health. I specialized in several aspects of mental health such as mood disorders, eating disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, and anxiety disorders. I Provide comprehensive evaluations and medication management. I have a solid foundation to customize a treatment plan based on your specific needs. In a world where life is so unpredictable, my goal is to assure that I meet your needs to walk you through the dark tunnel. I look forward to helping you in times of uncertainty. Feel free to contact me.
(929) 447-2430 View (929) 447-2430
Photo of Kari Groff - Park Slope Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Park Slope Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
(646) 455-3324 View (646) 455-3324
Photo of Lizzet I Garcia - Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925, MD, Psychiatrist
Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
(347) 767-5577 View (347) 767-5577
Photo of Abigail Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Abigail Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, treating the full spectrum of psychiatric conditions with care for each individual and their needs. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD across the lifespan, with particular attention to the intersection of ADHD and substance use and the unique problems faced by college students and young adults. Prior to medical training, I studied Art History at Rice University and Art Education at Columbia Teacher’s College. I attended Drexel University College of Medicine and completed residency and fellowship training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
I am a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, treating the full spectrum of psychiatric conditions with care for each individual and their needs. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD across the lifespan, with particular attention to the intersection of ADHD and substance use and the unique problems faced by college students and young adults. Prior to medical training, I studied Art History at Rice University and Art Education at Columbia Teacher’s College. I attended Drexel University College of Medicine and completed residency and fellowship training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
(347) 835-5743 View (347) 835-5743
Photo of Jeffrey Nozius, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeffrey Nozius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental healthcare is characterized by a comprehensive and empathetic understanding of patient needs, shaped by my extensive experience in both hospital settings and private practice. My focus spans across various aspects of psychiatry, with a strong emphasis on providing both in-person and telehealth services. This dual approach allows me to offer flexible, accessible care, meeting patients where they are most comfortable and effectively managing a range of psychiatric conditions.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental healthcare is characterized by a comprehensive and empathetic understanding of patient needs, shaped by my extensive experience in both hospital settings and private practice. My focus spans across various aspects of psychiatry, with a strong emphasis on providing both in-person and telehealth services. This dual approach allows me to offer flexible, accessible care, meeting patients where they are most comfortable and effectively managing a range of psychiatric conditions.
(347) 657-6244 View (347) 657-6244
Photo of Sophie Gloeckler, PhD, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sophie Gloeckler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Sophie graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude with a BA from Columbia University before completing her DNP there and becoming a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She also holds a PhD in Biomedical Ethics from the University of Zürich. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honors Society and was awarded a Fulbright research grant in 2019. As a Feldenkrais practitioner, a type of movement therapist, Sophie’s clinical practice is grounded in somatic work.
Sophie graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude with a BA from Columbia University before completing her DNP there and becoming a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She also holds a PhD in Biomedical Ethics from the University of Zürich. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honors Society and was awarded a Fulbright research grant in 2019. As a Feldenkrais practitioner, a type of movement therapist, Sophie’s clinical practice is grounded in somatic work.
(646) 681-4276 View (646) 681-4276
Photo of Adriel Gerard, MD, Psychiatrist
Adriel Gerard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I bring my sense of humor and upbeat personality to every session, and I am deeply dedicated to working to help you feel better. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who provides medication management and psychotherapy to adults. We can work together to address your everyday challenges and the issues that cause you stress, fear, and depression. I also provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which works in the "here and now" to address your thought processes and behaviors to help you feel happier. I offer flexible appointment times, including on weekends at my private office in Brooklyn Heights.
I bring my sense of humor and upbeat personality to every session, and I am deeply dedicated to working to help you feel better. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who provides medication management and psychotherapy to adults. We can work together to address your everyday challenges and the issues that cause you stress, fear, and depression. I also provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which works in the "here and now" to address your thought processes and behaviors to help you feel happier. I offer flexible appointment times, including on weekends at my private office in Brooklyn Heights.
(516) 252-0191 View (516) 252-0191
1
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.