Autism Therapists in Portland, ME
![Photo of Skye Clark, LPC, MHSP, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0cb8f3-2f8e-459f-a128-52bef2e3ef70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Skye Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102 (Online Only)
I work with autism in adults, individuals with trauma history, individuals in the music industry, and the LBGTQI+ community.
Accepting new virtual clients in Tennessee and Maine! You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy, in fact, you deserve it! Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
I work with autism in adults, individuals with trauma history, individuals in the music industry, and the LBGTQI+ community.
Accepting new virtual clients in Tennessee and Maine! You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy, in fact, you deserve it! Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
![Photo of Beth Main, LCPC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5461079b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Main
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04105 (Online Only)
I'm a counselor and ADHD coach, specializing in the treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) for adults and couples. I also help adults overcome the lingering effects of childhood trauma (a.k.a. developmental trauma). Most of my clients have both. I also have experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder, another commonly co-occurring condition. I do not work with children. You may find counseling with me to be different than what you’ve experienced in the past. I use techniques that go beyond talk therapy, including EMDR, EFT/Tapping, and Ego State / Parts Work. Because sometimes, talking about it isn't enough.
I'm a counselor and ADHD coach, specializing in the treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) for adults and couples. I also help adults overcome the lingering effects of childhood trauma (a.k.a. developmental trauma). Most of my clients have both. I also have experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder, another commonly co-occurring condition. I do not work with children. You may find counseling with me to be different than what you’ve experienced in the past. I use techniques that go beyond talk therapy, including EMDR, EFT/Tapping, and Ego State / Parts Work. Because sometimes, talking about it isn't enough.
![Photo of Charlie O'Rourke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401c6574-7cb7-4480-91b3-6c00728f6843/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie O'Rourke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have worked within mental health agencies and in the public school system for 20 years supporting children and their caregivers through a wide range of challenges including adult-child conflict, depression, anxiety, other mental health diagnoses, ADHD, autism spectrum challenges, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have worked within mental health agencies and in the public school system for 20 years supporting children and their caregivers through a wide range of challenges including adult-child conflict, depression, anxiety, other mental health diagnoses, ADHD, autism spectrum challenges, and trauma.
![Photo of Colby Williams - Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4151a84d-6d60-47a0-87b2-95fd53ac8951/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
![Photo of Maddalena (Maddy) Chiappetta, LMSW-CC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15452f81-2cb0-406c-b327-3e2b5adceb00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maddalena (Maddy) Chiappetta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
My purpose is to create a consistent, trauma-informed setting where we connect, share, and grow. My therapeutic concentrations include anxiety & depression, ADHD, the autism spectrum, educational challenges, aging, and stress related to government & policy. I am a believer in using creative methods such as drawing, painting, and music to get our minds moving. I am especially a believer in the power of fresh air and am likely to ask if you would be interested in meeting in the park on a nice day. I love riding my bicycle and do sewing in my free time.
My purpose is to create a consistent, trauma-informed setting where we connect, share, and grow. My therapeutic concentrations include anxiety & depression, ADHD, the autism spectrum, educational challenges, aging, and stress related to government & policy. I am a believer in using creative methods such as drawing, painting, and music to get our minds moving. I am especially a believer in the power of fresh air and am likely to ask if you would be interested in meeting in the park on a nice day. I love riding my bicycle and do sewing in my free time.
![Photo of Sierra Wait, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66f2dc5f-506f-4fbf-878b-5982d1405889/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in conducting psychological/neuropsychological evaluations used for diagnosing a variety of disorders, including: Intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, specific learning disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, and more.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. I am taking new patients for both therapy and psychological evaluations. I am accepting virtual therapy patients throughout the state of Maine and in-person patients at my office in Blue Hill for therapy and evaluations. I utilize a variety of approaches based on patient needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, exposure-based interventions, solution-focused approaches and trauma-informed treatment. I believe it is important to treat the whole person and not just the diagnosis, so we will also explore factors related to overall well-being.
I have expertise in conducting psychological/neuropsychological evaluations used for diagnosing a variety of disorders, including: Intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, specific learning disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, and more.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. I am taking new patients for both therapy and psychological evaluations. I am accepting virtual therapy patients throughout the state of Maine and in-person patients at my office in Blue Hill for therapy and evaluations. I utilize a variety of approaches based on patient needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, exposure-based interventions, solution-focused approaches and trauma-informed treatment. I believe it is important to treat the whole person and not just the diagnosis, so we will also explore factors related to overall well-being.
![Photo of Jeffrey Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd9622df-8c29-431f-b900-94cc859cd4c0/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
![Photo of Caitlin Nay, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edd64648-dc04-40ac-97d4-5a1c2634633d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Her expertise extends to providing support for clients with Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD, helping them navigate the challenges these conditions present.
Caitlin Nay, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, offers compassionate and expert mental health support to individuals throughout Maine. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, Caitlin collaborates with her clients to create a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment. This foundation of trust and understanding allows her to effectively support clients in meeting their unique individual goals. Caitlin serves a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, and adults. Caitlin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Her expertise extends to providing support for clients with Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD, helping them navigate the challenges these conditions present.
Caitlin Nay, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, offers compassionate and expert mental health support to individuals throughout Maine. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, Caitlin collaborates with her clients to create a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment. This foundation of trust and understanding allows her to effectively support clients in meeting their unique individual goals. Caitlin serves a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, and adults. Caitlin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
![Photo of Sheila A Balog - Sheila A. Balog, Ph.D, P.C., PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de6c176-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila A. Balog, Ph.D, P.C.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological evaluations of children, adolescents and adults. Areas of expertise include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyslexia, Nonverbal Learning Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Gifted and Talented, and psychiatric disorders.
I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological evaluations of children, adolescents and adults. Areas of expertise include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyslexia, Nonverbal Learning Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Gifted and Talented, and psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Amber Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35eb887d-899f-449c-8a43-fb347d8b50d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
![Photo of Lisa Dube - Merrimack River Wellness, Lisa Dube, LICSW, LICSW, She, Her, Hers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e00e64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Merrimack River Wellness, Lisa Dube, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, She, Her, Hers
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Licensed in MA, ME, CT & NH. (E-mail is the quickest way to reach me) Please note that I do not have openings for ongoing therapy, but maintain short-term space for parents, families, and individuals seeking guidance/understanding around gender identity and/or neurodivergence, hormone/surgery letters, as well as several groups for these communities. I specialize in gender identity, autism/neurodivergence, and parent coaching. I practice from the IFS model, and integrate Virtual Sand Tray, where appropriate, to create a visual representation of each person's unique system.
Licensed in MA, ME, CT & NH. (E-mail is the quickest way to reach me) Please note that I do not have openings for ongoing therapy, but maintain short-term space for parents, families, and individuals seeking guidance/understanding around gender identity and/or neurodivergence, hormone/surgery letters, as well as several groups for these communities. I specialize in gender identity, autism/neurodivergence, and parent coaching. I practice from the IFS model, and integrate Virtual Sand Tray, where appropriate, to create a visual representation of each person's unique system.
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![Photo of Brenna O’Sullivan, LCPC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88673cea-15d8-4a7a-ba7c-687471b05499/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brenna O’Sullivan
Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04102
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that all people are doing the best they can with the resources they have at the time. A good therapeutic fit could be just the resource you need to take your growth or healing into a new phase. Finding the right therapist can be a challenge, and I’m honored you are considering connecting with me. I am committed to creating an empowering space for you to tap into the tools, values, and beliefs already within that can help you thrive. I am especially passionate about holding space for Gen Z’ers, Neurodivergent folks or those exploring diagnoses, and folks healing from trauma and challenging family dynamics.
I believe that all people are doing the best they can with the resources they have at the time. A good therapeutic fit could be just the resource you need to take your growth or healing into a new phase. Finding the right therapist can be a challenge, and I’m honored you are considering connecting with me. I am committed to creating an empowering space for you to tap into the tools, values, and beliefs already within that can help you thrive. I am especially passionate about holding space for Gen Z’ers, Neurodivergent folks or those exploring diagnoses, and folks healing from trauma and challenging family dynamics.
![Photo of Ahmika Johnson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4871aae-cc0c-4b1d-9f6c-f1bfa7f044b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I will meet you where you are on your healing journey. As your therapist, it is my goal to cultivate a welcoming and judgment free zone that will allow you to explore your emotions, thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Each person is the expert in their own lives, and through utilizing an empowering and holistic approach, we will identify and work towards your goals. During our time together we may talk, play and/or practice mindfulness-it is all guided by your unique needs. I am grateful to take this journey with you!
I will meet you where you are on your healing journey. As your therapist, it is my goal to cultivate a welcoming and judgment free zone that will allow you to explore your emotions, thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Each person is the expert in their own lives, and through utilizing an empowering and holistic approach, we will identify and work towards your goals. During our time together we may talk, play and/or practice mindfulness-it is all guided by your unique needs. I am grateful to take this journey with you!
![Photo of Cassie Green, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/655d58d9-d6e0-488d-803d-8f871ab5e488/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric neuropsychology. I complete assessments to evaluate the cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral functioning of children and adolescents. Is your child showing signs of anxiety, excessive irritability or sadness, tantrums or emotional outbursts, defiance, attention concerns, learning difficulties, developmental delays, and/or social challenges? I can help you understand more about how your child thinks and feels. Most importantly, I can give you clear recommendations about how to move forward and best support your child.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric neuropsychology. I complete assessments to evaluate the cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral functioning of children and adolescents. Is your child showing signs of anxiety, excessive irritability or sadness, tantrums or emotional outbursts, defiance, attention concerns, learning difficulties, developmental delays, and/or social challenges? I can help you understand more about how your child thinks and feels. Most importantly, I can give you clear recommendations about how to move forward and best support your child.
![Photo of Leyla El-Baba, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a369f70-464c-4bbd-8ef3-c7cdedf7ca54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leyla El-Baba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04110 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice supports gender-diverse + queer individuals with atypical ways of thinking, feeling + relating. I serve highly intellectual folks + deep thinkers. I specialize in working with "Talented & Gifted burn-out kids" who are in the process of unmasking. Many of my clients are late-diagnosed or un-diagnosed Autistic and/or ADHD. I work with hyper-sensitive, self-aware, highly anxious survivors of complex trauma who experience obsessive thoughts, mental compulsions, executive dysfunction, social withdrawal + sleep disturbances.
My practice supports gender-diverse + queer individuals with atypical ways of thinking, feeling + relating. I serve highly intellectual folks + deep thinkers. I specialize in working with "Talented & Gifted burn-out kids" who are in the process of unmasking. Many of my clients are late-diagnosed or un-diagnosed Autistic and/or ADHD. I work with hyper-sensitive, self-aware, highly anxious survivors of complex trauma who experience obsessive thoughts, mental compulsions, executive dysfunction, social withdrawal + sleep disturbances.
![Photo of Brittany McDonald, LMSW-cc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6df3aaf-0e1e-4224-81cc-5ea7c6db437b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103 (Online Only)
Are you ready to ditch your anxiety? Sick of people pleasing? Do you experience flashbacks, struggle to identify and assert boundaries, and feel totally burnt out? Finding yourself in a seemingly never-ending cycle of fight or flight, and it feels impossible to be your authentic self? If this sounds like you, you're not alone. I work primarily with adults who live with anxiety, trauma, and neurodivergence- helping to guide my clients to a place of acceptance, empowerment, and self-confidence. In our work together, I will introduce new coping skills (you deserve relief!), help to define your goals, and walk the journey alongside you.
Are you ready to ditch your anxiety? Sick of people pleasing? Do you experience flashbacks, struggle to identify and assert boundaries, and feel totally burnt out? Finding yourself in a seemingly never-ending cycle of fight or flight, and it feels impossible to be your authentic self? If this sounds like you, you're not alone. I work primarily with adults who live with anxiety, trauma, and neurodivergence- helping to guide my clients to a place of acceptance, empowerment, and self-confidence. In our work together, I will introduce new coping skills (you deserve relief!), help to define your goals, and walk the journey alongside you.
![Photo of Mary Cole, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d548ddba-3dd2-4cc5-abbf-8bca6720a7c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Cole
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a waitlist. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a waitlist. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
![Photo of Rebecca L Mylroie, LCPC-c, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbd4bfa1-0199-4a20-ad69-33a7b8972260/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca L Mylroie
Counselor, LCPC-c, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103 (Online Only)
She/ Her- Mainecare or Private pay only Availability: Currently, there is a waitlist but feel free to reach out and let me know if you're interested in teletherapy or in-person sessions! People often tell us to manage our lives as if we have learned every strategy and read every book. Nobody knows everything, and you cannot expect yourself to navigate life as if you do. Counseling has the ability to help you gain or refine skill sets to maneuver daily life, mental health, and significant life events.
She/ Her- Mainecare or Private pay only Availability: Currently, there is a waitlist but feel free to reach out and let me know if you're interested in teletherapy or in-person sessions! People often tell us to manage our lives as if we have learned every strategy and read every book. Nobody knows everything, and you cannot expect yourself to navigate life as if you do. Counseling has the ability to help you gain or refine skill sets to maneuver daily life, mental health, and significant life events.
![Photo of Michael DiFillipo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cec6a6bc-5b18-4048-ad0a-f8ab6e5da756/1/320x400.png)
Mike DiFillipo holds a master’s degree in social work with a clinical concentration from Boston College. He has worked as an outpatient clinician, providing diagnostic assessment and both individual and group therapy, and in a primary care setting as a behavioral health consultant. He also previously held supervisory positions at community mental health agencies in Ohio and Maine.
Mike DiFillipo holds a master’s degree in social work with a clinical concentration from Boston College. He has worked as an outpatient clinician, providing diagnostic assessment and both individual and group therapy, and in a primary care setting as a behavioral health consultant. He also previously held supervisory positions at community mental health agencies in Ohio and Maine.
![Photo of Saige Weeks, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2254996-bab5-428c-8693-247d172d2bb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Saige Weeks is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of Maine, and a Master’s degree from Boston College. However, her journey in education doesn’t end there. Saige is deeply committed to staying abreast of the latest advancements in therapeutic approaches and evidence-based interventions. Over the years, Saige has dedicated herself to gaining expertise in various areas, including family dynamics, relationship issues, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Saige Weeks is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of Maine, and a Master’s degree from Boston College. However, her journey in education doesn’t end there. Saige is deeply committed to staying abreast of the latest advancements in therapeutic approaches and evidence-based interventions. Over the years, Saige has dedicated herself to gaining expertise in various areas, including family dynamics, relationship issues, and resilience in the face of adversity.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Portland
- Biddeford
- Brunswick
- Cape Elizabeth
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Gorham
- Old Orchard Beach
- Saco
- Scarborough
- South Portland
- Westbrook
- Yarmouth
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.