Autism Therapists in Sacramento County, CA

Photo of Eryn Reeder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eryn Reeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I am committed to affirming the LGBTQQI+ community, as well as individuals on the Autism Spectrum and those who self-identify as neurodivergent.
You deserve to be seen, heard, and truly understood. My practice is rooted in creating a compassionate, empowering space where you can explore your dreams, desires, needs, and challenges without judgment. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of race, gender, or sexual orientation, I offer a deeply empathetic and culturally competent approach tailored to your unique experiences. I specialize in working with Black, POC, Queer, and neurodivergent individuals, acknowledging the impact that societal intersections can have on mental health. Together, we’ll build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and mutual growth—
I am committed to affirming the LGBTQQI+ community, as well as individuals on the Autism Spectrum and those who self-identify as neurodivergent.
You deserve to be seen, heard, and truly understood. My practice is rooted in creating a compassionate, empowering space where you can explore your dreams, desires, needs, and challenges without judgment. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of race, gender, or sexual orientation, I offer a deeply empathetic and culturally competent approach tailored to your unique experiences. I specialize in working with Black, POC, Queer, and neurodivergent individuals, acknowledging the impact that societal intersections can have on mental health. Together, we’ll build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and mutual growth—
(916) 796-1327 View (916) 796-1327
Photo of Shawna Valverde, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawna Valverde
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmichael, CA 95608
Although I work with various issues including anxiety, depression, and relationship conflict, I specialize in treating Autism related challenges, neurodiverse couples and teens.
Everyone needs and deserves health in all forms. I believe therapy is no different than medical treatment or dental care. People often don't want to pursue therapy because they don't think their discomfort is enough to warrant the expense. Sometimes they feel they should just tough it out. Others think it only applies to those in crises. Whether the sessions are many or few, therapy can make a big difference in how you feel about yourself and how you relate to others. Emotional health is an investment in your quality of life.
Although I work with various issues including anxiety, depression, and relationship conflict, I specialize in treating Autism related challenges, neurodiverse couples and teens.
Everyone needs and deserves health in all forms. I believe therapy is no different than medical treatment or dental care. People often don't want to pursue therapy because they don't think their discomfort is enough to warrant the expense. Sometimes they feel they should just tough it out. Others think it only applies to those in crises. Whether the sessions are many or few, therapy can make a big difference in how you feel about yourself and how you relate to others. Emotional health is an investment in your quality of life.
(916) 288-9783 View (916) 288-9783
Photo of Leanne Azevedo, MA, LMFT, 97516, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leanne Azevedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 97516
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I LOVE TO WORK WITH: Adults, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Relationship & Communication Difficulties, Life Adjustments & Life Purpose, Empaths & Highly Sensitive People.
My hope is that the safe and supportive environment I seek to create will be a place where you can openly process difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me in therapy, I will assist you in finding the tools and skills needed to live your life more effectively. I know that the challenges you may be facing right now can feel really big and overwhelming and I am here to sit with you in your pain and to help you make positive changes in your life, in part by accessing the wisdom and strength you already hold within.
I LOVE TO WORK WITH: Adults, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Relationship & Communication Difficulties, Life Adjustments & Life Purpose, Empaths & Highly Sensitive People.
My hope is that the safe and supportive environment I seek to create will be a place where you can openly process difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me in therapy, I will assist you in finding the tools and skills needed to live your life more effectively. I know that the challenges you may be facing right now can feel really big and overwhelming and I am here to sit with you in your pain and to help you make positive changes in your life, in part by accessing the wisdom and strength you already hold within.
(916) 352-8874 View (916) 352-8874
Photo of Manvel Ter-Pogosyan, MEd, BCBA
Manvel Ter-Pogosyan
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Manvel Ter-Pogosyan, BCBA, is the CEO of Aura Behavioral Health. Aura is a healthcare group founded and led by clinicians who share the goal of fostering hope for children and families impacted by autism and other developmental disabilities. We hold a firm belief that all clients are deserving of a better quality of life despite their cultural, developmental or socioeconomic background.
Manvel Ter-Pogosyan, BCBA, is the CEO of Aura Behavioral Health. Aura is a healthcare group founded and led by clinicians who share the goal of fostering hope for children and families impacted by autism and other developmental disabilities. We hold a firm belief that all clients are deserving of a better quality of life despite their cultural, developmental or socioeconomic background.
(747) 223-8589 View (747) 223-8589
Photo of Grace Lagerstrom, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace Lagerstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I work with teenagers and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety and or Depression, who are feeling stuck or lost, or unsure which direction to take in school or life. I specialize in “Adulting” and Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s), but am happy to work with anyone motivated to change their life. I also work with those who feel like who they aren't good enough, like they’re different or broken, and are tired of trying so hard. I also work with their family member’s and partners of individuals with ASD, who are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure how to help. I also provide EMDR therapy.
I work with teenagers and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety and or Depression, who are feeling stuck or lost, or unsure which direction to take in school or life. I specialize in “Adulting” and Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s), but am happy to work with anyone motivated to change their life. I also work with those who feel like who they aren't good enough, like they’re different or broken, and are tired of trying so hard. I also work with their family member’s and partners of individuals with ASD, who are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure how to help. I also provide EMDR therapy.
(530) 507-8388 View (530) 507-8388
Photo of Danielle K Christy - Inclusively Minded, MA, LEP3165
Inclusively Minded
MA, LEP3165
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834
I specialize in providing evidence based interventions for children with anxiety, ADHD, and autism or any combination of those issues.
I have spent the last 15 years working as a school psychologist, adjunct professor, and contractor. I have served students from preschool to high school aged and worked in the full range of settings from public schools, charter schools, to non-public schools. I am a proud graduate of the University of California, Davis and California State University, Sacramento. In 2010, I obtained my License as an Educational Psychologist (LEP # 3165).
I specialize in providing evidence based interventions for children with anxiety, ADHD, and autism or any combination of those issues.
I have spent the last 15 years working as a school psychologist, adjunct professor, and contractor. I have served students from preschool to high school aged and worked in the full range of settings from public schools, charter schools, to non-public schools. I am a proud graduate of the University of California, Davis and California State University, Sacramento. In 2010, I obtained my License as an Educational Psychologist (LEP # 3165).
(530) 322-5666 View (530) 322-5666
Photo of Marcos D Lopez, PhD, Psychologist
Marcos D Lopez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95759  (Online Only)
As an experienced therapist who specializes in anxiety, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, and Autism, I believe that everyone can heal and reclaim control over their lives.
Is the stress of your life overwhelming you? Or has a past experience left you stuck and unable to move forward? You're likely fed up with how anxiety or trauma have crippled your ability to function in everyday life, isolating you from others, and leaving you feeling trapped or hopeless. You might not even remember a time you didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel a sense of confidence. You’re ready to experience a sense of ease. Most of all, you’re ready to reclaim a sense of control over your life.
As an experienced therapist who specializes in anxiety, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, and Autism, I believe that everyone can heal and reclaim control over their lives.
Is the stress of your life overwhelming you? Or has a past experience left you stuck and unable to move forward? You're likely fed up with how anxiety or trauma have crippled your ability to function in everyday life, isolating you from others, and leaving you feeling trapped or hopeless. You might not even remember a time you didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel a sense of confidence. You’re ready to experience a sense of ease. Most of all, you’re ready to reclaim a sense of control over your life.
(916) 269-5671 View (916) 269-5671
Photo of Stephanie Hewitt, EdS, NCSP, LEP, Psychologist
Stephanie Hewitt
Psychologist, EdS, NCSP, LEP
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
My specialties include learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD, and autism in students from preschool through college.
My name is Stephanie Hewitt, and I am a licensed educational psychologist and founder of Learning Pathways. I specialize in helping students find a pathway to success by discovering how their unique brain works and how their families and school can support them and set them up for success.
My specialties include learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD, and autism in students from preschool through college.
My name is Stephanie Hewitt, and I am a licensed educational psychologist and founder of Learning Pathways. I specialize in helping students find a pathway to success by discovering how their unique brain works and how their families and school can support them and set them up for success.
(279) 529-0529 View (279) 529-0529
Photo of Margot Frost, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margot Frost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gold River, CA 95670  (Online Only)
Do you suspect that you have ADHD or autism (formerly known as Asperger's), or that your mind has always worked a little differently? Do you feel like your suspected diagnosis is holding you back? Congratulations, you are in the right place. Whether it's relationship problems, job issues, or just feeling overwhelmed and disorganized, sometimes it can feel like you just can’t get it right, despite tremendous effort. Let's work together to change those self-destructive thought patterns and create a new narrative.
Do you suspect that you have ADHD or autism (formerly known as Asperger's), or that your mind has always worked a little differently? Do you feel like your suspected diagnosis is holding you back? Congratulations, you are in the right place. Whether it's relationship problems, job issues, or just feeling overwhelmed and disorganized, sometimes it can feel like you just can’t get it right, despite tremendous effort. Let's work together to change those self-destructive thought patterns and create a new narrative.
(916) 252-4469 View (916) 252-4469
Photo of Haleigh Scott - City of Trees Assessment and Therapy , Psychologist
City of Trees Assessment and Therapy
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
City of Trees also offers individual therapy for people with Autism or Intellectual Disability, however, our therapists are currently full.
City of Trees offers psychological assessment for children and teens. We offer comprehensive assessments for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Intellectual Disability. We also offer developmental assessments for children ages 2-5.
City of Trees also offers individual therapy for people with Autism or Intellectual Disability, however, our therapists are currently full.
City of Trees offers psychological assessment for children and teens. We offer comprehensive assessments for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Intellectual Disability. We also offer developmental assessments for children ages 2-5.
(916) 619-3948 View (916) 619-3948
Photo of Noe Dueñas, MS, APCC, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Noe Dueñas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
We know that it can be extremely challenging to find a clinician that is knowledgeable in both autism and mental health and we seek to fill that gap.
Noe is a queer, Latinx, neuro diverse, disability specialist and mental health therapist that focuses his treatment on working with individuals with autism and/or developmental disabilities. Clients of Noe typically have a hard time connecting to other therapist, have behavioral outbursts at home and/or school/work, strained relationships with others, can’t find a knowledgeable therapist in autism and or developmental disabilities, problems with regulating emotions and difficulty with coping with life's everyday stresses. Noe provides support with IEP's, IPP's, getting services, individual and group therapy and social skills groups.
We know that it can be extremely challenging to find a clinician that is knowledgeable in both autism and mental health and we seek to fill that gap.
Noe is a queer, Latinx, neuro diverse, disability specialist and mental health therapist that focuses his treatment on working with individuals with autism and/or developmental disabilities. Clients of Noe typically have a hard time connecting to other therapist, have behavioral outbursts at home and/or school/work, strained relationships with others, can’t find a knowledgeable therapist in autism and or developmental disabilities, problems with regulating emotions and difficulty with coping with life's everyday stresses. Noe provides support with IEP's, IPP's, getting services, individual and group therapy and social skills groups.
(916) 461-1877 View (916) 461-1877
Photo of Haleigh Scott, PhD, Psychologist
Haleigh Scott
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Waitlist for new clients
If you or your child has autism or developmental disabilities and have struggled to find supportive, high-quality services, please feel free to reach out.
Dr. Haleigh Scott is the owner of Ascend Diagnostic & Support Services, a multi-specialty group practice that provides services and supports for people with autism and/or developmental disabilities. We provide support across the lifespan, this includes early intervention (ABA therapy) for young children, IEP support for families, individual and group therapy, and social skills groups for a variety of ages. We operate from a strengths-based approach that seeks to improve individual and family quality of life.
If you or your child has autism or developmental disabilities and have struggled to find supportive, high-quality services, please feel free to reach out.
Dr. Haleigh Scott is the owner of Ascend Diagnostic & Support Services, a multi-specialty group practice that provides services and supports for people with autism and/or developmental disabilities. We provide support across the lifespan, this includes early intervention (ABA therapy) for young children, IEP support for families, individual and group therapy, and social skills groups for a variety of ages. We operate from a strengths-based approach that seeks to improve individual and family quality of life.
(916) 824-3522 View (916) 824-3522
Photo of Melissa K Steele-Parks, M Ed, BCBA
Melissa K Steele-Parks
M Ed, BCBA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
Early intervention is key when it comes to future outcomes for children with autism and other developmental disorders.
I am a BCBA specializing in pediatric behavior therapy services. I have a BA in Linguistics with a focus on atypical language development and a M Ed. in Educational Psychology for Multiple Severe Disabilities with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders. I started my practice in 2015 in Atlanta, GA. I work with children and adolescents who have Autism and other developmental difference. My passion is helping children develop communication and language skills, functional/adaptive daily living skills and social skills and supporting parents and families of children with developmental disorders.
Early intervention is key when it comes to future outcomes for children with autism and other developmental disorders.
I am a BCBA specializing in pediatric behavior therapy services. I have a BA in Linguistics with a focus on atypical language development and a M Ed. in Educational Psychology for Multiple Severe Disabilities with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders. I started my practice in 2015 in Atlanta, GA. I work with children and adolescents who have Autism and other developmental difference. My passion is helping children develop communication and language skills, functional/adaptive daily living skills and social skills and supporting parents and families of children with developmental disorders.
(916) 306-9011 View (916) 306-9011
Photo of Reed Ward - Reward Learning, LLC., MA, LEP, ABSNP
Reward Learning, LLC.
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MA, LEP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95841
Are you seeking answers about learning-related needs. A thorough evaluation is needed to accurately figure that out and to diagnose or "rule out" a Specific Learning Disorder (like dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia), ADHD, Autism, or an Intellectual Disability. It will result in recommendations based on a client's unique learning profile. Some may seek testing for other reasons. For example, a college student who has a disability may be entitled to accommodations in school, and for exams. A comprehensive assessment is adapted to meet each person's needs. As a highly skilled Licensed Educational Psychologist, Reed can help.
Are you seeking answers about learning-related needs. A thorough evaluation is needed to accurately figure that out and to diagnose or "rule out" a Specific Learning Disorder (like dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia), ADHD, Autism, or an Intellectual Disability. It will result in recommendations based on a client's unique learning profile. Some may seek testing for other reasons. For example, a college student who has a disability may be entitled to accommodations in school, and for exams. A comprehensive assessment is adapted to meet each person's needs. As a highly skilled Licensed Educational Psychologist, Reed can help.
(916) 436-5330 View (916) 436-5330
Photo of Kyleiann O'Connor, MA, AMFT, APCC, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kyleiann O'Connor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carmichael, CA 95608
I love cycling, football, movies, reading, spending time with loved ones, and helping others. My ideal client is willing to be vulnerable and transparent. Someone who knows what it is to struggle but also wants to improve their life. I have 15 years of experience as a Registered Nurse working with babies, children, and adults. I am also a mom to a child on the autism spectrum. I use these experiences to enhance my relationship with the people I work with. I desire to help others heal, grow, and reach their fullest potential. Life is hard, I have experienced a lot of hardship, but there is beauty to be found if we seek it.
I love cycling, football, movies, reading, spending time with loved ones, and helping others. My ideal client is willing to be vulnerable and transparent. Someone who knows what it is to struggle but also wants to improve their life. I have 15 years of experience as a Registered Nurse working with babies, children, and adults. I am also a mom to a child on the autism spectrum. I use these experiences to enhance my relationship with the people I work with. I desire to help others heal, grow, and reach their fullest potential. Life is hard, I have experienced a lot of hardship, but there is beauty to be found if we seek it.
(279) 201-6062 View (279) 201-6062
Photo of Rashella Avalos-Senteno, MA, LEP, Psychologist
Rashella Avalos-Senteno
Psychologist, MA, LEP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94211
We at Applied Life Dynamics offer adult and child psychotherapy, psycho-educational/ psychological assessments, career assessment, social skill development for children to young adult with Autism or have other social skills or emotional deficits.
My desire is to work with you in developing the skills and tools necessary to navigate through the struggles you may face on the job, parenting children with or without disabilities, relationships, daily stressors, and helping children to learn the skills needed so they can thrive and develop at their highest potential. It first starts with self-growth, development, and to apply the life skills that are right for you. I am here to guide, council, coach, instruct, and provide assessment in the areas needed to assist in providing you with as much information and support needed to live a more peaceful life with better relationships.
We at Applied Life Dynamics offer adult and child psychotherapy, psycho-educational/ psychological assessments, career assessment, social skill development for children to young adult with Autism or have other social skills or emotional deficits.
My desire is to work with you in developing the skills and tools necessary to navigate through the struggles you may face on the job, parenting children with or without disabilities, relationships, daily stressors, and helping children to learn the skills needed so they can thrive and develop at their highest potential. It first starts with self-growth, development, and to apply the life skills that are right for you. I am here to guide, council, coach, instruct, and provide assessment in the areas needed to assist in providing you with as much information and support needed to live a more peaceful life with better relationships.
(559) 234-0693 View (559) 234-0693
Photo of James Martin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
My name is James “Brent” Martin and I’ve been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 32 years. I have a passion for helping others and healing broken relationships and past trauma. I have a long history of working with children. I have expertise in treating ADHD, School Problems, Autism, and child trauma. I have worked with CPS child sexual abuse treatment program, and mental health assessments for school special education AB3632 in Orange County California. I also work with married couples and do premarital counseling through my church and private practice.
My name is James “Brent” Martin and I’ve been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 32 years. I have a passion for helping others and healing broken relationships and past trauma. I have a long history of working with children. I have expertise in treating ADHD, School Problems, Autism, and child trauma. I have worked with CPS child sexual abuse treatment program, and mental health assessments for school special education AB3632 in Orange County California. I also work with married couples and do premarital counseling through my church and private practice.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Tanisha Tatum, MS, LEP, BCBA
Tanisha Tatum
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, LEP, BCBA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94203  (Online Only)
Trained to work w/neurodiverse clients as well who have Autism, ADHD etc.
My clients teens and young adults who need help identifying and managing their mental health needs whether that is Anxiety, Depression, social problems, and/or adjusting to growing up. I provide therapy as well as psychoeducational assessment services. My assessments target neurodiverse abilities such as ADHD, Autism & learning disabilities. When relevant assessments include recommendations for accommodations for school and work. For my therapy practice, I used solution focused approaches as well as behavior based strategies, combining my skills to create a positive therapeutic experience. Virtual services only in FL and SC.
Trained to work w/neurodiverse clients as well who have Autism, ADHD etc.
My clients teens and young adults who need help identifying and managing their mental health needs whether that is Anxiety, Depression, social problems, and/or adjusting to growing up. I provide therapy as well as psychoeducational assessment services. My assessments target neurodiverse abilities such as ADHD, Autism & learning disabilities. When relevant assessments include recommendations for accommodations for school and work. For my therapy practice, I used solution focused approaches as well as behavior based strategies, combining my skills to create a positive therapeutic experience. Virtual services only in FL and SC.
(754) 354-0190 View (754) 354-0190
Photo of Candice Simpson-Lentz, MBA, MPsych, PA, Psychological Associate
Candice Simpson-Lentz
Psychological Associate, MBA, MPsych, PA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Narcissism, and Substance Abuse.
Hello, my name is Candice, and I am a supervised therapist by Dr. Di Lorenzo (www.drrosadilorenzo.com). I pride myself on empowering people to become their best in life. Suppose you are an adult facing challenging life issues, marital problems or complex past traumas. Maybe you are a minor having a hard time adjusting to life due to divorce, mental illness, or low self-esteem, or an older adult dealing with a change of life. I will highlight your strengths to equip you to deal with whatever life throws at you.
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Narcissism, and Substance Abuse.
Hello, my name is Candice, and I am a supervised therapist by Dr. Di Lorenzo (www.drrosadilorenzo.com). I pride myself on empowering people to become their best in life. Suppose you are an adult facing challenging life issues, marital problems or complex past traumas. Maybe you are a minor having a hard time adjusting to life due to divorce, mental illness, or low self-esteem, or an older adult dealing with a change of life. I will highlight your strengths to equip you to deal with whatever life throws at you.
(916) 237-1402 View (916) 237-1402
Nesreen Khalil
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
With experience in ABA therapy for children with Autism and a background in providing actionable strategies and clarity for adults, I offer support for a variety of challenges, always rooted in empathy and a strong, supportive relationship.
As a social justice advocate, I believe all people—children and adults alike—can reach their maximized potential when provided with a safe, therapeutic environment and someone who’s willing to sit with them in the trenches of what they’re going through. My approach blends techniques from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and art therapy to help clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and giving them direction towards their personal goals. Whether you're navigating career changes, family challenges, or trauma rooted in racial injustices, my goal is to help you recognize your ability to grow and heal.
With experience in ABA therapy for children with Autism and a background in providing actionable strategies and clarity for adults, I offer support for a variety of challenges, always rooted in empathy and a strong, supportive relationship.
As a social justice advocate, I believe all people—children and adults alike—can reach their maximized potential when provided with a safe, therapeutic environment and someone who’s willing to sit with them in the trenches of what they’re going through. My approach blends techniques from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and art therapy to help clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and giving them direction towards their personal goals. Whether you're navigating career changes, family challenges, or trauma rooted in racial injustices, my goal is to help you recognize your ability to grow and heal.
(530) 287-6996 View (530) 287-6996
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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.