Autism Therapists in 91302
![Photo of Brandon F Heimberg - Heimberg Neuropsychology, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db6e293-09a0-423f-b7e4-ff58af325060/1/320x400.jpeg)
He specializes in the assessment and treatment of a variety of conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and mood disorders.
Dr. Heimberg takes the time to get to the root of the problem through comprehensive neuropsychological or psychological assessment to assess for a wide range of psychological and medical conditions. Our patient's find comfort in receiving a thorough diagnostic evaluation to assess for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, a specific learning disorder, neuropsychological sequelau of complex medical conditions or treatment, traumatic brain injury, post traumatic stress disorder, and neurodegenerative conditions (alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, etc.).
He specializes in the assessment and treatment of a variety of conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and mood disorders.
Dr. Heimberg takes the time to get to the root of the problem through comprehensive neuropsychological or psychological assessment to assess for a wide range of psychological and medical conditions. Our patient's find comfort in receiving a thorough diagnostic evaluation to assess for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, a specific learning disorder, neuropsychological sequelau of complex medical conditions or treatment, traumatic brain injury, post traumatic stress disorder, and neurodegenerative conditions (alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, etc.).
![Photo of Cindy Lacost, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cad1160-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work well with individuals and families with individuals with special needs such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional problems (e.
The ideal client is 5 - 35 years old, experiencing academic, behavioral, psychological, functional, occupational or social problems, such as difficulty learning, regulating emotion, developing and maintaining friendships, problem-solving, acting in age-appropriate ways, thinking clearly, sustaining attention, or working. I offer strength-based assessment services to children, adolescents, and young adults including psychoeducational, psychological, and accommodations testing for the purpose of diagnosis, documentation, treatment, and intervention planning. This includes school placement, IEP goals, support services, accommodations, and referrals. I also work clinically with parents and siblings of special needs children, and children, adolescents and young adults with special needs.
I work well with individuals and families with individuals with special needs such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional problems (e.
The ideal client is 5 - 35 years old, experiencing academic, behavioral, psychological, functional, occupational or social problems, such as difficulty learning, regulating emotion, developing and maintaining friendships, problem-solving, acting in age-appropriate ways, thinking clearly, sustaining attention, or working. I offer strength-based assessment services to children, adolescents, and young adults including psychoeducational, psychological, and accommodations testing for the purpose of diagnosis, documentation, treatment, and intervention planning. This includes school placement, IEP goals, support services, accommodations, and referrals. I also work clinically with parents and siblings of special needs children, and children, adolescents and young adults with special needs.
![Photo of Ashley Ribeiro, PsyD, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405003e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ashley Ribeiro earned her BA in Psychology from UCSB and went on to complete her Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at CLU. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at the CARD Assessment Center and her two year post-doctoral fellowship at UCLA in the Center for Autism Research & Treatment. She has held positions in both clinical and research settings. Dr. Ribeiro worked at UCLA as a postdoctoral scholar and clinical instructor for a pioneering NIH funded autism biomarkers study. She currently has her own private practice in Ventura County and is also an adjunct professor in both graduate and undergraduate programs at CLU.
Dr. Ashley Ribeiro earned her BA in Psychology from UCSB and went on to complete her Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at CLU. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at the CARD Assessment Center and her two year post-doctoral fellowship at UCLA in the Center for Autism Research & Treatment. She has held positions in both clinical and research settings. Dr. Ribeiro worked at UCLA as a postdoctoral scholar and clinical instructor for a pioneering NIH funded autism biomarkers study. She currently has her own private practice in Ventura County and is also an adjunct professor in both graduate and undergraduate programs at CLU.
![Photo of Karen Derman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/429a8d49-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With extensive experience in Autism, ADHD, and related disorders, I provide consultation, screening and therapeutic intervention for children and adults of all ages with all kinds of challenges.
Is Your School Age Child, Preteen, or Teen, having difficulty at home, in school, or in their relationships with others? Does Your Young Adult have difficulty finding and keeping friends or jobs? Are You Concerned About Your Infant or Toddler's development? Do they have behaviors that are difficult to manage? Are You Feeling Frustrated because you don't know how to help?
With extensive experience in Autism, ADHD, and related disorders, I provide consultation, screening and therapeutic intervention for children and adults of all ages with all kinds of challenges.
Is Your School Age Child, Preteen, or Teen, having difficulty at home, in school, or in their relationships with others? Does Your Young Adult have difficulty finding and keeping friends or jobs? Are You Concerned About Your Infant or Toddler's development? Do they have behaviors that are difficult to manage? Are You Feeling Frustrated because you don't know how to help?
![Photo of Jonine Biesman, PsyD, ABPdN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b150c7d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Biesman specializes in assessing and treating children, adolescents, and young adults with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, ADHD, and learning differences and associated social-emotional and educational challenges. She works closely with families and specifically conducts comprehensive child, adolescent and adult neuropsychological and forensic evaluations. Additionally, she offers neurodevelopmental assessments and works extensively with parents in formulating treatment plans and early intervention programs for children ages 0-5. She supervises post-docs who treat youth 18-25 and those with digital addictions.
Dr. Biesman specializes in assessing and treating children, adolescents, and young adults with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, ADHD, and learning differences and associated social-emotional and educational challenges. She works closely with families and specifically conducts comprehensive child, adolescent and adult neuropsychological and forensic evaluations. Additionally, she offers neurodevelopmental assessments and works extensively with parents in formulating treatment plans and early intervention programs for children ages 0-5. She supervises post-docs who treat youth 18-25 and those with digital addictions.
![Photo of Vertaim Verta Keshishyan, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9c0a7cc-f4e2-4d45-aa64-24fe9a976ee9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vertaim Verta Keshishyan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
Treating Teenagers with Gender Identity Issues, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Family Relationships, Parent-Child Trauma, Grief, Childhood Trauma, and Substance Abuse.
Human connection is what keeps us going. Sometimes when we're lost and unsure we just need someone to hear us out and validate what we're going through. Let me be that person for you. Together, we can get you to where you want to be. Additionally, I'm passionate about working with the children of this generation to help them develop tools and regulating techniques for the future because they are the future. Self-regulated children grow into self-regulated adults.
Treating Teenagers with Gender Identity Issues, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Family Relationships, Parent-Child Trauma, Grief, Childhood Trauma, and Substance Abuse.
Human connection is what keeps us going. Sometimes when we're lost and unsure we just need someone to hear us out and validate what we're going through. Let me be that person for you. Together, we can get you to where you want to be. Additionally, I'm passionate about working with the children of this generation to help them develop tools and regulating techniques for the future because they are the future. Self-regulated children grow into self-regulated adults.
![Photo of Cynthia A. Levy, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439fc0c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
e healthy relationships/DV); Anxiety/Depression/Mood Disorders; Addictions; suicidality & self-harm; Autism Spectrum (social skills); Tricotillomania; ADHD; Tourette's.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
e healthy relationships/DV); Anxiety/Depression/Mood Disorders; Addictions; suicidality & self-harm; Autism Spectrum (social skills); Tricotillomania; ADHD; Tourette's.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
![Photo of Charlyne Gelt, Ph, D, CGP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d477a1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychologist, I utilize my training and experiencs as an educator, to work with individuals on the Asperger/ autism spectrum, and adolescents with severe emotional disturbances.
When an inner situation is not made conscious, it happens outside as fate." Jung.
Unresolved Trust or communication issues?
"I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and groups integrating Cognitive-Behavioral, psychodynamic and adjunctive group therapy.
I specialize helping people who struggle to define themselves as individuals, often while in relationships, teasing out issues that block one's true protential. I am committed to helping women move from emotional submission in relationships: 1+1=3.
Women's Empowerment Groups are for women who are "strong" on the outside, yet struggle with issues of emotional submission in relationships. The Third Candle in Relationships,(CAMFT 10/05).
As a psychologist, I utilize my training and experiencs as an educator, to work with individuals on the Asperger/ autism spectrum, and adolescents with severe emotional disturbances.
When an inner situation is not made conscious, it happens outside as fate." Jung.
Unresolved Trust or communication issues?
"I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and groups integrating Cognitive-Behavioral, psychodynamic and adjunctive group therapy.
I specialize helping people who struggle to define themselves as individuals, often while in relationships, teasing out issues that block one's true protential. I am committed to helping women move from emotional submission in relationships: 1+1=3.
Women's Empowerment Groups are for women who are "strong" on the outside, yet struggle with issues of emotional submission in relationships. The Third Candle in Relationships,(CAMFT 10/05).
![Photo of Merry Lambert, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fa9e69b-7728-4d00-aad8-0265a5639b27/2/320x400.jpeg)
Merry Lambert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
As a former case manager at the Regional Center, I have extensive expertise, and an empathic understanding of working with those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.
**Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom**~Aristotle~ If you're seeking self-understanding, your life's meaning and purpose--and how to make sense out of painful or unfulfilling patterns in relationships, I'm a psychodynamic therapist here to help. We'll explore patterns in your emotions, thoughts, and beliefs in relation to past experiences to gain insight. Insight plus action creates change. You aren't responsible for your early life emotional wounds, but you are responsible for your healing. I hope you'll reach out to begin the process.
As a former case manager at the Regional Center, I have extensive expertise, and an empathic understanding of working with those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.
**Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom**~Aristotle~ If you're seeking self-understanding, your life's meaning and purpose--and how to make sense out of painful or unfulfilling patterns in relationships, I'm a psychodynamic therapist here to help. We'll explore patterns in your emotions, thoughts, and beliefs in relation to past experiences to gain insight. Insight plus action creates change. You aren't responsible for your early life emotional wounds, but you are responsible for your healing. I hope you'll reach out to begin the process.
![Photo of Danielle Goldman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73d1bb11-1a58-445c-aacc-61d5c873f219/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Goldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302 (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals specifically those who are Autistic and/ or have ADHD and are either diagnosed or undiagnosed. I welcome all stages of a person's journey. I accept clients for who they are and meet them where they are at. Rather than pushing yourself through stressful situations, I help clients find ways to work with their challenges. My goal is to provide a safe environment where clients can be their most authentic selves. I believe clients know themselves better than anyone else and I strive as a therapist to empower clients to find themselves through their own self-determination.
I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals specifically those who are Autistic and/ or have ADHD and are either diagnosed or undiagnosed. I welcome all stages of a person's journey. I accept clients for who they are and meet them where they are at. Rather than pushing yourself through stressful situations, I help clients find ways to work with their challenges. My goal is to provide a safe environment where clients can be their most authentic selves. I believe clients know themselves better than anyone else and I strive as a therapist to empower clients to find themselves through their own self-determination.
![Photo of Araceli Salazar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb831c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Guided by the mission to promote health, healing and hope for individuals, children, and families, I strive to provide quality professional services within a collaborative and compassionate approach. My belief is that people heal, grow, and thrive within supportive and safe relationships. My practice succeeds because I integrate the latest research findings, implement evidence-based interventions, and work in a committed, compassionate and collaborative way with my clients. If eligible, I will incorporate a patented sound therapy protocol that significantly reduces reactivity to trauma triggers and stress symptoms.
Guided by the mission to promote health, healing and hope for individuals, children, and families, I strive to provide quality professional services within a collaborative and compassionate approach. My belief is that people heal, grow, and thrive within supportive and safe relationships. My practice succeeds because I integrate the latest research findings, implement evidence-based interventions, and work in a committed, compassionate and collaborative way with my clients. If eligible, I will incorporate a patented sound therapy protocol that significantly reduces reactivity to trauma triggers and stress symptoms.
15 Second Videos
Cassidy Russell
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Kent Toussaint
![Photo of Judith Leone-Friedman - Dr. Judith Friedman, Reflect Neuropsychology, MEd, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d210b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Judith Friedman, Reflect Neuropsychology
Psychologist, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
I am a Neuropsychologist located in Calabasas with over 25 years of specialized training in neuropsychological testing, and adolescent, adult and geriatric psychology from Harvard University and UCLA. I accept insurance, and specialize in the in the evidence-based assessment of individuals with academic, learning, and other neurocognitive differences that effect academic, social, and behavioral functioning. My team and I use a scientific approach to provide each patient with an individualized assessment based on empirically-validated research of brain-based conditions (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, brain injury, epilepsy, dementia, etc.).
I am a Neuropsychologist located in Calabasas with over 25 years of specialized training in neuropsychological testing, and adolescent, adult and geriatric psychology from Harvard University and UCLA. I accept insurance, and specialize in the in the evidence-based assessment of individuals with academic, learning, and other neurocognitive differences that effect academic, social, and behavioral functioning. My team and I use a scientific approach to provide each patient with an individualized assessment based on empirically-validated research of brain-based conditions (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, brain injury, epilepsy, dementia, etc.).
![Photo of Marie Ohannessian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b20ee27-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Don't give up, you can heal and overcome traumas by adapting to new environments through healthy coping skills. Helping to cope with changes and finding ways to decrease or resolve experiences of distress can be vital for a person to grow in a healthy manner. I am committed to establishing a collaborative relationship and work toward assisting my clients to overcome and cope with significant stressors in their lives. Being aware of the triggers and working toward healthier forms of thinking and behaving are important aspects to work through in therapy. I am also able to accommodate my clients and meet them within the community.
Don't give up, you can heal and overcome traumas by adapting to new environments through healthy coping skills. Helping to cope with changes and finding ways to decrease or resolve experiences of distress can be vital for a person to grow in a healthy manner. I am committed to establishing a collaborative relationship and work toward assisting my clients to overcome and cope with significant stressors in their lives. Being aware of the triggers and working toward healthier forms of thinking and behaving are important aspects to work through in therapy. I am also able to accommodate my clients and meet them within the community.
![Photo of Armineh Antonian - Relationship Passages, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7ccd23e-1a56-4b21-89d1-13586c3ac9bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Relationship Passages
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302 (Online Only)
My passion lies in facilitating positive change in the lives of children, adolescents, special needs individuals, and their families.
My passion lies in facilitating positive change in the lives of children, adolescents, special needs individuals, and their families.
![Photo of Nelli Tonoyan, MA, APCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe904851-7266-418b-9a05-e64171d1bf6a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Nelli Tonoyan
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
My focus is on supporting individuals navigating through challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, low self-esteem, life transitions, self-harm, and more.
My focus is on supporting individuals navigating through challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, low self-esteem, life transitions, self-harm, and more.
![Photo of Dr. Moreen Rubin - California Virtual Eating Disorder Experts VIOP, LMFT, PsyD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e22718a-98cf-48bc-b9fd-e39402bbd1bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
California Virtual Eating Disorder Experts VIOP
LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your relationship with food, trapped in a cycle of anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating? Do anxiety, depression, or trauma amplify your struggle? It would help if you had accessible, personalized treatment that addresses both your mental and nutritional needs. If you want to heal your relationship with food and body image, build emotional strength, and recover on your terms, we can help. Our program offers the guidance of highly experienced ED and trauma therapists, the benefits of EMDR therapy, in-home ED coaching, flexible virtual care, and a compassionate, supportive community of recovered staff.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your relationship with food, trapped in a cycle of anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating? Do anxiety, depression, or trauma amplify your struggle? It would help if you had accessible, personalized treatment that addresses both your mental and nutritional needs. If you want to heal your relationship with food and body image, build emotional strength, and recover on your terms, we can help. Our program offers the guidance of highly experienced ED and trauma therapists, the benefits of EMDR therapy, in-home ED coaching, flexible virtual care, and a compassionate, supportive community of recovered staff.
![Photo of Edith Matilda Moses, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b827c21-a633-40bd-b796-bd4198636015/3/320x400.jpeg)
Edith Matilda Moses
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy. I strive to create a safe space for my patients, a space where both verbal and nonverbal communication can be expressed. The art in therapy serves to reveal unconscious material that may otherwise remain unknown, and it helps deepen the therapeutic process. You do not need any artistic skills to participate in art psychotherapy. My mission is to provide my full attention and expertise so that my patients feel seen and heard, which I believe paves the path toward growth, change, self awareness and healing.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy. I strive to create a safe space for my patients, a space where both verbal and nonverbal communication can be expressed. The art in therapy serves to reveal unconscious material that may otherwise remain unknown, and it helps deepen the therapeutic process. You do not need any artistic skills to participate in art psychotherapy. My mission is to provide my full attention and expertise so that my patients feel seen and heard, which I believe paves the path toward growth, change, self awareness and healing.
![Photo of Cassidy Russell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52b4a6aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you interested in therapy but don’t want to have to tell another person that not all video games are grand theft auto, not all cartoons are for kids, and Dungeons and Dragons is a social hobby? It can be frustrating thinking you found the right therapist only to learn they hold some pretty big misconceptions of pop culture. Especially when pop culture is such a major part of many of our lives.
Are you interested in therapy but don’t want to have to tell another person that not all video games are grand theft auto, not all cartoons are for kids, and Dungeons and Dragons is a social hobby? It can be frustrating thinking you found the right therapist only to learn they hold some pretty big misconceptions of pop culture. Especially when pop culture is such a major part of many of our lives.
![Photo of Dana Lindon, MA, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bdd09b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
You or a family member are not as happy as you wish. You feel alone, sad, anxious, depressed, frustrated - you may know why, but you are stuck and aren't sure how to change it. I can help you. We will work together to eradicate your negative feelings and create more adaptive ways to address your challenges. Through interactive, safe, regular meetings, we will access your deeper feelings, work through them and find more positive ways to deal with the challenges that come your way.
You or a family member are not as happy as you wish. You feel alone, sad, anxious, depressed, frustrated - you may know why, but you are stuck and aren't sure how to change it. I can help you. We will work together to eradicate your negative feelings and create more adaptive ways to address your challenges. Through interactive, safe, regular meetings, we will access your deeper feelings, work through them and find more positive ways to deal with the challenges that come your way.
![Photo of Dr. Monique Boswell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a82e32d7-044d-413b-81d0-6219c9a650ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have found particular interest in working with children, adolescents, parents, and athletes using a CBT framework for treating a variety of problems. My services include individual therapy for children and adolescents, parent training, mental skills training and community outreach. I use learning theory, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and DBT in conjunction with cultural and contextual factors to provide a tailored approach to treatment that balances the individual’s (or family’s) clinical and personal needs. My strengths lie in building strong, compassionate, collaborative relationships, which are the basis of therapy.
I have found particular interest in working with children, adolescents, parents, and athletes using a CBT framework for treating a variety of problems. My services include individual therapy for children and adolescents, parent training, mental skills training and community outreach. I use learning theory, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and DBT in conjunction with cultural and contextual factors to provide a tailored approach to treatment that balances the individual’s (or family’s) clinical and personal needs. My strengths lie in building strong, compassionate, collaborative relationships, which are the basis of therapy.
See more therapy options for 91302
Autism Therapists
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.