Autism Therapists in Vestavia Hills, AL
![Photo of Laura Doyle, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/580225e3-cc3c-422e-be09-5a6737131088/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
As a counselor, it is my greatest joy to see healing and positive change happen in the lives of my clients. My goal is to provide a safe space that encourages vulnerability, hope, and real growth. My clients include all diversities and ages from children, adolescents, and adults, to couples, families, and those who have special needs, such as autism, dyslexia, and other learning differences.
As a counselor, it is my greatest joy to see healing and positive change happen in the lives of my clients. My goal is to provide a safe space that encourages vulnerability, hope, and real growth. My clients include all diversities and ages from children, adolescents, and adults, to couples, families, and those who have special needs, such as autism, dyslexia, and other learning differences.
![Photo of Stephen Aaron Adair, MEd, ALC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b01c96e-9df3-46f1-96f7-05ef491827d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a special interest in counseling male clients age 13 and up. I also specialize in seeing women who prefer to see a male counselor. Helping men with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life events, and helping them navigate the world through the male perspective is a passion of mine. I help men break the stigma of therapy to get the help they need and deserve. I help clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction, anger management, family conflict, communication, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship problems, and many more.
I have a special interest in counseling male clients age 13 and up. I also specialize in seeing women who prefer to see a male counselor. Helping men with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life events, and helping them navigate the world through the male perspective is a passion of mine. I help men break the stigma of therapy to get the help they need and deserve. I help clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction, anger management, family conflict, communication, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship problems, and many more.
![Photo of Tori Cranford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4953391-5265-4d76-956b-2db926de75f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck in your own journey, or your child's journey? My goal as a therapist is to help you or your loved one feel comfortable diving into the hard things in life. My perspective works to combine behavioral changes with raising awareness of our inner experiences.
Are you feeling stuck in your own journey, or your child's journey? My goal as a therapist is to help you or your loved one feel comfortable diving into the hard things in life. My perspective works to combine behavioral changes with raising awareness of our inner experiences.
![Photo of Sierra Anderson, MA, ALC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee15d19e-b957-45ce-976a-514abedf58f2/1/320x400.png)
Sierra Anderson
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to helping individuals facing adversity find peace and reach their therapeutic goals within their unique contexts. My work focuses on providing accessible counseling services that draw from various therapeutic modalities, with a special interest in working with neurodiverse individuals and the queer community. I believe in helping clients navigate their emotional and psychological challenges in a client-centered and validating manner, regardless of their background. I see myself as a guide, not a teacher, recognizing that clients are the experts in their own lived experiences.
I am committed to helping individuals facing adversity find peace and reach their therapeutic goals within their unique contexts. My work focuses on providing accessible counseling services that draw from various therapeutic modalities, with a special interest in working with neurodiverse individuals and the queer community. I believe in helping clients navigate their emotional and psychological challenges in a client-centered and validating manner, regardless of their background. I see myself as a guide, not a teacher, recognizing that clients are the experts in their own lived experiences.
![Photo of Diana Paulk - Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy, PhD, LICSW, LPC, LMFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4970258c-3cbf-4b4e-9fef-de3917ceae1f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, LICSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Do you struggle with anxiety and excessive worry? Have you been through a traumatic event that was difficult to resolve? We help individuals, couples, children, and families overcome anxiety, depression, worry, recent or past trauma, stress, PTSD, child behavioral problems, couples challenges, and family conflict issues. We identify ways to get you un-stuck and back to wellness. Our Psychologists and Therapists have many years of combined training and experience. We use state of the art techniques to help you overcome your challenges. We'll help you practice new ways of looking at things and handling problems more effectively.
Do you struggle with anxiety and excessive worry? Have you been through a traumatic event that was difficult to resolve? We help individuals, couples, children, and families overcome anxiety, depression, worry, recent or past trauma, stress, PTSD, child behavioral problems, couples challenges, and family conflict issues. We identify ways to get you un-stuck and back to wellness. Our Psychologists and Therapists have many years of combined training and experience. We use state of the art techniques to help you overcome your challenges. We'll help you practice new ways of looking at things and handling problems more effectively.
![Photo of Alexis Sapp - ACA Counseling Alexis Sapp, NCC, LPC-S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63e41e8c-0b89-467c-ad69-1d3dfadb3c66/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACA Counseling Alexis Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Mrs. Sapp is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NBCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), and a Supervising Counselor, SC. Mrs. Sapp is trained in EMDR and is eager to continue her professional development in the area of EMDR with children, adolescents, and teens. Mrs. Sapp enjoys the therapeutic benefit of engaging clients in walk-and-talk therapy while utilizing ACA's facility dogs. Her mission is to empower children, teens, and their families to overcome personal obstacles and improve their quality of life. She is passionate about the impact of counseling during childhood and adolescent years.
Mrs. Sapp is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NBCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), and a Supervising Counselor, SC. Mrs. Sapp is trained in EMDR and is eager to continue her professional development in the area of EMDR with children, adolescents, and teens. Mrs. Sapp enjoys the therapeutic benefit of engaging clients in walk-and-talk therapy while utilizing ACA's facility dogs. Her mission is to empower children, teens, and their families to overcome personal obstacles and improve their quality of life. She is passionate about the impact of counseling during childhood and adolescent years.
![Photo of Rebecca Lee, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680dc271-2177-4cf1-9b8e-76108b8798b2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
I have extensive training in Family Systems Theory, Experiential Therapy and as of June 2024, I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR and working towards being fully certified. Family has always been very important to me and that’s why I love systems therapy. So many of our wounds are tied to a relationship (or a lack thereof) and at the same time, healing can only be found in relationships. Sometimes we are afforded an opportunity to heal a relationship and other times we have to find internal healing with the support of other relationships.
I have extensive training in Family Systems Theory, Experiential Therapy and as of June 2024, I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR and working towards being fully certified. Family has always been very important to me and that’s why I love systems therapy. So many of our wounds are tied to a relationship (or a lack thereof) and at the same time, healing can only be found in relationships. Sometimes we are afforded an opportunity to heal a relationship and other times we have to find internal healing with the support of other relationships.
![Photo of Crissy Powell, MS, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b75d627-41ef-4ffc-996f-edd8259690d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crissy Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
No matter your age, occupation, or lifestyle every lived experience thus far in your life has contributed to who you are today. These experiences have shaped your way of seeing the world ultimately effecting your thoughts and actions. Therapy provides you a safe space to deeply explore these experiences, thoughts, and actions or even just vent about them. I believe that you’re the author to your own life, and therapy can be a great place to turn a new page, start a new chapter, and write your book in the way you want.
No matter your age, occupation, or lifestyle every lived experience thus far in your life has contributed to who you are today. These experiences have shaped your way of seeing the world ultimately effecting your thoughts and actions. Therapy provides you a safe space to deeply explore these experiences, thoughts, and actions or even just vent about them. I believe that you’re the author to your own life, and therapy can be a great place to turn a new page, start a new chapter, and write your book in the way you want.
![Photo of Emily Edwards Holm, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47343d40-097a-46aa-a086-c2a0ab9bc0ed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Edwards Holm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Not accepting new clients
As a Registered Play Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I focus on treating children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with diverse populations. Some examples include mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, social skills, grief, sports/athletes, school, coming of age/transitions, and incarceration. I offer coping, communication, and relaxation skills to help clients reach their full potential. My specific areas of interest are anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum and social skills, coming of age issues/transitions into high school and college, and grief.
As a Registered Play Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I focus on treating children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with diverse populations. Some examples include mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, social skills, grief, sports/athletes, school, coming of age/transitions, and incarceration. I offer coping, communication, and relaxation skills to help clients reach their full potential. My specific areas of interest are anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum and social skills, coming of age issues/transitions into high school and college, and grief.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kaye Culp, MEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b5232ce-65a2-4bfb-ade7-0a97be2db5cd/1/320x400.png)
Are you an adult with autism or believe you might have autism? Does life feel like a struggle? Life can sometimes feel like a constant struggle, especially if you’re navigating the complexities of autism, ADHD, or related conditions. If you’re grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulties in relationships, employment, or understanding your own emotions, you’re not alone. I am here to offer support, guidance, and practical strategies to help you build a life that’s both meaningful and enjoyable.
Are you an adult with autism or believe you might have autism? Does life feel like a struggle? Life can sometimes feel like a constant struggle, especially if you’re navigating the complexities of autism, ADHD, or related conditions. If you’re grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulties in relationships, employment, or understanding your own emotions, you’re not alone. I am here to offer support, guidance, and practical strategies to help you build a life that’s both meaningful and enjoyable.
![Photo of Kat Lawson, MA, LPC, NCC, CMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bea4a12-5d71-4c83-b45d-6c791f1f8fab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kat Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Some of my counseling emphasis' are personality disorders, autism issues and mood disorders including major depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
My philosophy of counseling is that every human soul is unique and their experiences shape their view of the world. The process of individuation is essential in order for a person to become whole and fully developed as his, her, or their 'true self.' I believe empathy, collaboration and validation are key to the counseling relationship. The person as NOT the problem, rather, the problem is the problem. In the counseling relationship we will focus on strengths and mindfully and collaboratively awaken awareness of the authentic self to free clients of negative learned beliefs. The goal is for you to have a satisfactory life.
Some of my counseling emphasis' are personality disorders, autism issues and mood disorders including major depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
My philosophy of counseling is that every human soul is unique and their experiences shape their view of the world. The process of individuation is essential in order for a person to become whole and fully developed as his, her, or their 'true self.' I believe empathy, collaboration and validation are key to the counseling relationship. The person as NOT the problem, rather, the problem is the problem. In the counseling relationship we will focus on strengths and mindfully and collaboratively awaken awareness of the authentic self to free clients of negative learned beliefs. The goal is for you to have a satisfactory life.
![Photo of Jason Mishalanie, PhD, BCN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44149afc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a medication free treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, stuttering, developmental disabilities, or other brain related difficulties? Or, are you a high achieving student, professional or athlete who desires to enhance your performance in academics, athletics, or business? Everyone wants to have more effective, more efficient brain power. We want to perform at our personal peak, without the use of psychotropic medications. As a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Neurotherapist, I treat children and adults using brain training, and individual and family counseling techniques.
Are you looking for a medication free treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, stuttering, developmental disabilities, or other brain related difficulties? Or, are you a high achieving student, professional or athlete who desires to enhance your performance in academics, athletics, or business? Everyone wants to have more effective, more efficient brain power. We want to perform at our personal peak, without the use of psychotropic medications. As a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Neurotherapist, I treat children and adults using brain training, and individual and family counseling techniques.
![Photo of Kelly Lansden, ALC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f69a84a4-8d0f-4367-b07b-f3368ca6445d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of letting chronic illness or pain control your life? With a master's degree in counseling and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I offer a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with chronic conditions. My goal is to provide you with the tools and support you need to not just cope, but to thrive despite the challenges you face.
Are you tired of letting chronic illness or pain control your life? With a master's degree in counseling and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I offer a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with chronic conditions. My goal is to provide you with the tools and support you need to not just cope, but to thrive despite the challenges you face.
![Photo of Nikki Patun, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec7a3314-fc0b-4f58-b581-d3e7392958f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Patun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244 (Online Only)
It can be difficult to ask for help; we may feel weak, hopeless, or disappointed. Asking for help requires strength and courage and may be a journey through both darkness and light. I believe it is important to trust the process, sit with our uncomfortable feelings, and accept our emotions for what they are. Vulnerability, shame, and fear may make it difficult to share, at times, but know this is normal as we navigate change. There is a lot to be learned from our dark times, and, as a therapist, I hope to be alongside you in your journey of growth.
It can be difficult to ask for help; we may feel weak, hopeless, or disappointed. Asking for help requires strength and courage and may be a journey through both darkness and light. I believe it is important to trust the process, sit with our uncomfortable feelings, and accept our emotions for what they are. Vulnerability, shame, and fear may make it difficult to share, at times, but know this is normal as we navigate change. There is a lot to be learned from our dark times, and, as a therapist, I hope to be alongside you in your journey of growth.
![Photo of Kade Boliek, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad262da2-144e-4bfc-82be-aeccd34b50bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
We each have our individual struggles which can prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Do you deal with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, guilt, or shame? Do you struggle with your identity or self-esteem? Are you looking to learn more about yourself and find ways that you can live life more authentically and with less fear? I'm here to assist you in identifying those unique needs and constructing a plan that enhances your strengths while supporting you to make the changes you want in life. I'm a therapist who values transparency. I want my clients to feel they never have to guess what I'm thinking.
We each have our individual struggles which can prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Do you deal with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, guilt, or shame? Do you struggle with your identity or self-esteem? Are you looking to learn more about yourself and find ways that you can live life more authentically and with less fear? I'm here to assist you in identifying those unique needs and constructing a plan that enhances your strengths while supporting you to make the changes you want in life. I'm a therapist who values transparency. I want my clients to feel they never have to guess what I'm thinking.
![Photo of Kris Allen Riddle, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dcecc7a-b958-4ab5-b996-e463b26a4ffc/3/320x400.jpeg)
After graduating from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1996, Kris began his career working with Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He earned his Masters Degree in Counselor Education in 2001, and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2008. Since then Kris has worked in Inpatient Psychiatric and Outpatient Settings. He has received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) for children, the Gottman Method Level 2 for Couples Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
After graduating from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1996, Kris began his career working with Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He earned his Masters Degree in Counselor Education in 2001, and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2008. Since then Kris has worked in Inpatient Psychiatric and Outpatient Settings. He has received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) for children, the Gottman Method Level 2 for Couples Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
![Photo of Adam Corley Elliott, ALC, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7156968-70c6-4116-a30d-ea2b099a909e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Corley Elliott
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
One of the first things I tell clients who struggle with mental health disorders or overwhelming stress is that in today's society, with all the turmoil and uncertainty we face, it is a natural and normal reaction to be struggling mentally. While there is still a large stigma towards mental health and therapy I believe a great way to combat this is by understanding that it is not weakness to seek help, it in fact takes great strength to reach out to someone and admit that we cannot do this on our own.
One of the first things I tell clients who struggle with mental health disorders or overwhelming stress is that in today's society, with all the turmoil and uncertainty we face, it is a natural and normal reaction to be struggling mentally. While there is still a large stigma towards mental health and therapy I believe a great way to combat this is by understanding that it is not weakness to seek help, it in fact takes great strength to reach out to someone and admit that we cannot do this on our own.
![Photo of Destinee Miskel, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27847632-9228-42b4-a4bd-bbcfd056342b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Destinee Miskel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
How did I get here? At first you missed a couple of days of work, then you stopped showering, and now you don’t hang out with people you used to enjoy. Life hits hard whether it’s intrusive memories, the loss of a loved one, or a struggle with your own sense of self-worth. Sometimes it’s hard to even pinpoint why you feel the way you feel, you just can’t seem to move past it. If you’re sick of crawling back under the covers to hide from the world, or making endless excuses to avoid people, reach out.
How did I get here? At first you missed a couple of days of work, then you stopped showering, and now you don’t hang out with people you used to enjoy. Life hits hard whether it’s intrusive memories, the loss of a loved one, or a struggle with your own sense of self-worth. Sometimes it’s hard to even pinpoint why you feel the way you feel, you just can’t seem to move past it. If you’re sick of crawling back under the covers to hide from the world, or making endless excuses to avoid people, reach out.
![Photo of Caela Rhea, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b19c7d23-4587-4a29-9d05-7134fe1f39ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caela Rhea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
![Photo of Jill Dean, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f93563-45df-440c-8dee-2bb31a525932/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Do you have anxiety, addiction, complex trauma, grief, women's issues, or AuDHD/ADHD? Or do you consider yourself to be neurodivergent? Do you often struggle in interpersonal relations? Let an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor meet you where you are and begin to explore those areas of concern causing difficulty. We will work to develop healthy, and obtainable changes. I offer a safe space where you can be yourself, with no judgement and no bias. I provide all-inclusive services to individuals beginning at 14 years old, and couples. Counseling can lead you to develop a healing path. Call or email today!
Do you have anxiety, addiction, complex trauma, grief, women's issues, or AuDHD/ADHD? Or do you consider yourself to be neurodivergent? Do you often struggle in interpersonal relations? Let an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor meet you where you are and begin to explore those areas of concern causing difficulty. We will work to develop healthy, and obtainable changes. I offer a safe space where you can be yourself, with no judgement and no bias. I provide all-inclusive services to individuals beginning at 14 years old, and couples. Counseling can lead you to develop a healing path. Call or email today!
See more therapy options for Vestavia Hills
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Vestavia Hills
See More Autism TherapistsNearby Searches for Vestavia Hills
- Bessemer
- Birmingham
- Cahaba Heights
- Crestline Heights
- Helena
- Homewood
- Hoover
- Indian Springs
- Meadowbrook
- Mountain Brook
- Pelham
- Vestavia
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.