Autism Psychiatrists in Redmond, WA
![Photo of Michele Tulk, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c655da6c-e33f-44f2-966a-921c42bade2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Tulk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed Health at Every Size (HAES) provider and have expertise in providing sensitive care and treatment to people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Schedule online today at www.nwtelepsychiatry.com. Evening and weekend visits available! It's finally time to get some help. You've read educational websites, shared in online forums, had years of therapy, and it just hasn't been enough. It's time to seek out another layer of support. I have 11 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, and empathic. My style is client-centered where I function as a guide to help us find a sustainable medication regimen that you feel good about. I absolutely LOVE what I do.
I am a trauma-informed Health at Every Size (HAES) provider and have expertise in providing sensitive care and treatment to people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Schedule online today at www.nwtelepsychiatry.com. Evening and weekend visits available! It's finally time to get some help. You've read educational websites, shared in online forums, had years of therapy, and it just hasn't been enough. It's time to seek out another layer of support. I have 11 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, and empathic. My style is client-centered where I function as a guide to help us find a sustainable medication regimen that you feel good about. I absolutely LOVE what I do.
![Photo of Ashley Osborne, Ashley Osborne, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2109e969-84f3-44f4-8142-9d2e8eda23e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ashley Osborne, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
If you're looking for a kind, knowledgeable & compassionate provider, you are in the right place. Ashley a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 10 yrs. experience working in mental health, in outpatient, inpatient and residential settings. Ashley enjoys working with children, teens and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, attention-deficient disorders (ADHD) and Autism. After spending the last two years working with two WashU Psychiatrists, prescribing the latest treatments and working in new drug research, she has gained significant experience and expertise.
If you're looking for a kind, knowledgeable & compassionate provider, you are in the right place. Ashley a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 10 yrs. experience working in mental health, in outpatient, inpatient and residential settings. Ashley enjoys working with children, teens and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, attention-deficient disorders (ADHD) and Autism. After spending the last two years working with two WashU Psychiatrists, prescribing the latest treatments and working in new drug research, she has gained significant experience and expertise.
![Photo of Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01a6596-b208-4d5e-ad84-5424bc1654e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
![Photo of Kathleen Johnson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01cba746-53b9-44e9-a8dc-e792cfce9444/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
![Photo of Debbie Davieca Singh - Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health , FNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b1abe32-6640-4673-b1c5-bf2313f1bbc0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
![Photo of Michael Ramsey, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45d9e62b-400d-404d-bdf7-7ddbde313335/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
![Photo of Dr. Annabelle Dampier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77537f9d-b4ca-4798-87e9-63b97a77af37/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dampier is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist accepting new patients. She has extensive experience with assessing and treating a diverse array of psychiatric diagnoses. Moreover, she incorporates cultural psychiatry into clinical supervision and psychiatric assessments. Her private practice offers pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy medical interventions. She enjoys working alongside neuropsychiatrist to manage patients who undergo acute and intermittent neuromodulation.
Dr. Dampier is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist accepting new patients. She has extensive experience with assessing and treating a diverse array of psychiatric diagnoses. Moreover, she incorporates cultural psychiatry into clinical supervision and psychiatric assessments. Her private practice offers pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy medical interventions. She enjoys working alongside neuropsychiatrist to manage patients who undergo acute and intermittent neuromodulation.
![Photo of Leilani De Jong, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40496221-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leilani De Jong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98073
I believe in patient-centered, integrated mental health care. The goal for each patient is to optimize individual health and wellness. I view each patient as a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, a specialized treatment plan is created in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. Therapy is typically brief and solution focused. Prescribing medications is done conscientiously, when suitable, and at the safest dosage.
I believe in patient-centered, integrated mental health care. The goal for each patient is to optimize individual health and wellness. I view each patient as a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, a specialized treatment plan is created in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. Therapy is typically brief and solution focused. Prescribing medications is done conscientiously, when suitable, and at the safest dosage.
![Photo of Dr. Ilyse Rosenberg, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d79599-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rosenberg work to bring joy and happiness to children, families, and adults by looking at the whole person and developing a customized plan to achieve your unique goals. She takes a caring approach to address your concerns and allow you to achieve a well-balanced, cheerful life. She is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist with more than 13 years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults. Her well-rounded approach focuses on the individual needs of patients and families to create a balanced treatment plan that looks at both psychology and medical needs. She performs a thorough psychiatric evaluation.
Dr. Rosenberg work to bring joy and happiness to children, families, and adults by looking at the whole person and developing a customized plan to achieve your unique goals. She takes a caring approach to address your concerns and allow you to achieve a well-balanced, cheerful life. She is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist with more than 13 years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults. Her well-rounded approach focuses on the individual needs of patients and families to create a balanced treatment plan that looks at both psychology and medical needs. She performs a thorough psychiatric evaluation.
![Photo of Kemi Fawehinmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15f26f6e-2f2e-4aa7-acfb-46ca3d248bbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kemi Fawehinmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
![Photo of Fitsum Belay, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60d97e39-8a7a-4216-a725-10d4fc93be51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fitsum Belay is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2024. She earned a BSN at University of Washington. Fitsum is dedicated to advancing mental health care and improving patient outcomes through compassionate and evidence-based practice. Fitsum strives to create a trusting and therapeutic relationship with each patient, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered on their journey to mental wellness.
Fitsum Belay is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2024. She earned a BSN at University of Washington. Fitsum is dedicated to advancing mental health care and improving patient outcomes through compassionate and evidence-based practice. Fitsum strives to create a trusting and therapeutic relationship with each patient, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered on their journey to mental wellness.
15 Second Videos
Michele Tulk
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Kemi Fawehinmi
Sussana Howard
Daniel Okoro
Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC
![Photo of Sussana Howard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ebff7dc-5bfe-45ce-8dee-3ed4c085cc3e/2/320x400.png)
My name is Sussana Howard. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified to treat adolescents through the geriatric population. I am based in Texas. I work with clients statewide through telehealth. My approach to care is using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to provide objective, reliable criteria for identifying and differentiating mental disorders. I use assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems in children and adolescents.
My name is Sussana Howard. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified to treat adolescents through the geriatric population. I am based in Texas. I work with clients statewide through telehealth. My approach to care is using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to provide objective, reliable criteria for identifying and differentiating mental disorders. I use assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems in children and adolescents.
![Photo of Daniel Okoro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4192126-29e8-41e2-bfb3-52e8bdbff4a8/2/320x400.png)
Daniel Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients, and is able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions. Nees to approach the patient with compassion and assure that you will provide personalized care because each patient is unique
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients, and is able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions. Nees to approach the patient with compassion and assure that you will provide personalized care because each patient is unique
![Photo of Jennie Brown - Centered Mind Counseling Services, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b94511c-62d2-4e37-81d4-1e0951aecfda/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennie Brown - Centered Mind Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Currently accepting new child, adolescent, and adult clients remotely or in person! I provide collaborative, evidence-based, trauma-informed psychiatric services, both in person and remotely. I love getting to know my clients and their stories; everyone has unique strengths to draw upon in treatment. For the past ten years I have provided psychiatric services to clients of all ages. I have additional training and specialization in child, adolescent, and young adult psychiatric care, as well as LGBTQIA+ care. In addition to medication management services, I provide brief therapeutic interventions to support ongoing psychotherapy
Currently accepting new child, adolescent, and adult clients remotely or in person! I provide collaborative, evidence-based, trauma-informed psychiatric services, both in person and remotely. I love getting to know my clients and their stories; everyone has unique strengths to draw upon in treatment. For the past ten years I have provided psychiatric services to clients of all ages. I have additional training and specialization in child, adolescent, and young adult psychiatric care, as well as LGBTQIA+ care. In addition to medication management services, I provide brief therapeutic interventions to support ongoing psychotherapy
![Photo of George Attobrah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b05beb20-fe09-4ada-9631-0af10c355787/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
![Photo of Melissa Osada - Neupathway (Melissa Osada), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ec52caa-88cf-4bf3-8eee-aa09268f6611/1/320x400.png)
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98073
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
![Photo of Chad Lawrence Jacobs, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53cfb3c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chad Lawrence Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
I seek to assist my clients in optimizing their cognitive, mental, physical and spiritual health. We are all unique and require diverse approaches in order to achieve our maximum potential. In order to do this I will listen your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan which where possible reflects your priorities. I will never cease in my commitment to helping you achieve your goals.
I seek to assist my clients in optimizing their cognitive, mental, physical and spiritual health. We are all unique and require diverse approaches in order to achieve our maximum potential. In order to do this I will listen your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan which where possible reflects your priorities. I will never cease in my commitment to helping you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Shade Bamigbola - Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c64222d-2700-4e14-8334-a423293ec8f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98053 (Online Only)
In my role as PMHNP-BC, I am trained in the treatment of psychiatric illness of individuals across the lifespan (age 6-65), especially those with adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma-related disorders. I have practiced with diverse populations across a variety of settings including: Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Service, Eating disorder, School-Based Psychiatry Program and Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry Outpatient settings.
In my role as PMHNP-BC, I am trained in the treatment of psychiatric illness of individuals across the lifespan (age 6-65), especially those with adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma-related disorders. I have practiced with diverse populations across a variety of settings including: Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Service, Eating disorder, School-Based Psychiatry Program and Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry Outpatient settings.
![Photo of Dr. Shannon Meyers - Renew Psychiatric Group , DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2a9e887-84be-4016-813e-eae798fc8f2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renew Psychiatric Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98053 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients: Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’ve been working in the medical field for over twenty years. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though for the last 10 years I have practiced exclusively in psychiatry. My educational background and prior clinical experience in family practice gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5 and up. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you.
Accepting New Patients: Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’ve been working in the medical field for over twenty years. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though for the last 10 years I have practiced exclusively in psychiatry. My educational background and prior clinical experience in family practice gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5 and up. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Jessica Roberson, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53b18fb9-6841-40b2-9ea1-344e32468276/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Roberson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98073 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging. Sometimes its a blip in our typical life routine and sometimes its more. Being equipped and having the right tools is helpful when we encounter these life challenges. However sometimes one thinks that nothing more can be done and continue to struggle. Chronic life challenges can be stressful, I have experience with medication management and brief psychotherapy to help you reach your wellness goals. I also have a compassionate approach that is important to better understand you and your needs as we work together.
Life can be challenging. Sometimes its a blip in our typical life routine and sometimes its more. Being equipped and having the right tools is helpful when we encounter these life challenges. However sometimes one thinks that nothing more can be done and continue to struggle. Chronic life challenges can be stressful, I have experience with medication management and brief psychotherapy to help you reach your wellness goals. I also have a compassionate approach that is important to better understand you and your needs as we work together.
See more therapy options for Redmond
Nearby Autism Psychiatrists Searches for Redmond
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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.