Autism Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

Photo of Erin Mark - Complete Neuropsychology Services, PhD, Psychologist
Complete Neuropsychology Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
As a mom of a tween with Autism and ADHD, I know how hard it is to find help and how stressful that can be.
We specialize in neuropsychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults, while also providing treatment for anxiety and mood conditions. Do you or a loved one have difficulty at school, work, or with relationships? Are you concerned about your child's social development? Are you wondering if your child has ADHD or a learning disability? Are you concerned about changes with your parent's memory or behavior? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then we can help. - Erin Mark, PhD, Clinic Director
As a mom of a tween with Autism and ADHD, I know how hard it is to find help and how stressful that can be.
We specialize in neuropsychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults, while also providing treatment for anxiety and mood conditions. Do you or a loved one have difficulty at school, work, or with relationships? Are you concerned about your child's social development? Are you wondering if your child has ADHD or a learning disability? Are you concerned about changes with your parent's memory or behavior? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then we can help. - Erin Mark, PhD, Clinic Director
(734) 629-4283 View (734) 629-4283
Photo of Ethan Milner, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethan Milner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
For anyone searching for an ally in approaching the challenges of life, choosing therapy can be a great option. Some of the issues I work on are trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD. I specialize in working with individual adults, adolescents, with families (parent-child focus), and athletes. Another specialty is helping individuals and families from adolescence to adulthood in understanding and navigating neurodivergence, especially as related to Autism. I welcome folks from any walk of life, though my practice is explicitly anti-racist, LGBTQQ+ positive, disability-conscious, and cognizant of systemic harm.
For anyone searching for an ally in approaching the challenges of life, choosing therapy can be a great option. Some of the issues I work on are trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD. I specialize in working with individual adults, adolescents, with families (parent-child focus), and athletes. Another specialty is helping individuals and families from adolescence to adulthood in understanding and navigating neurodivergence, especially as related to Autism. I welcome folks from any walk of life, though my practice is explicitly anti-racist, LGBTQQ+ positive, disability-conscious, and cognizant of systemic harm.
(734) 999-4173 View (734) 999-4173
Photo of Dr. Erinn Cameron, PhD, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Erinn Cameron
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively and compassionately from within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Together, we will engage in an empowering experience that will help you move towards the future with confidence. I work with clients to target difficulties associated with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, weight management, tic disorder, binge eating disorder, trauma, and PTSD. I also conduct ADHD & Autism assessments and pre-surgical evaluations. I implement evidence based interventions such as CBT, CPT for PTSD and trauma, Mindfulness, Habit Reversal Training, Somatic Psychotherapy, ERP, DBT Skills, and ACT.
I work collaboratively and compassionately from within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Together, we will engage in an empowering experience that will help you move towards the future with confidence. I work with clients to target difficulties associated with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, weight management, tic disorder, binge eating disorder, trauma, and PTSD. I also conduct ADHD & Autism assessments and pre-surgical evaluations. I implement evidence based interventions such as CBT, CPT for PTSD and trauma, Mindfulness, Habit Reversal Training, Somatic Psychotherapy, ERP, DBT Skills, and ACT.
(734) 789-4658 View (734) 789-4658
Photo of Brian Neau, LMSW, Counselor
Brian Neau
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Brian is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who has a particular passion for helping people to manage ADHD, Autism, and the many issues that can develop because of living with these conditions. He also has experience working with anxiety and mood disorders as well as grief and trauma.
Brian is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who has a particular passion for helping people to manage ADHD, Autism, and the many issues that can develop because of living with these conditions. He also has experience working with anxiety and mood disorders as well as grief and trauma.
(734) 530-4369 View (734) 530-4369
Photo of Lio Riley, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lio Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Note: current availability is limited to daytime appointments - Welcome! I’m Lio, a therapist at the Mala Child & Family Institute. I’m dedicated to empowering teens and young adults as they navigate LGBTQ+ identity, disability, Autism (including PDA and high-masking profiles), ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent and queer adult, I know that these experiences are often misunderstood and encounter a range of barriers. I also understand the impact that a safe environment can have on the development of self-worth, self-advocacy, and self-compassion.
Note: current availability is limited to daytime appointments - Welcome! I’m Lio, a therapist at the Mala Child & Family Institute. I’m dedicated to empowering teens and young adults as they navigate LGBTQ+ identity, disability, Autism (including PDA and high-masking profiles), ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent and queer adult, I know that these experiences are often misunderstood and encounter a range of barriers. I also understand the impact that a safe environment can have on the development of self-worth, self-advocacy, and self-compassion.
(734) 441-2388 View (734) 441-2388
Photo of Ruth Spalding, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Spalding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I am accepting folks for weekly individual therapy. I use a neurodiversity affirming, strengths-based perspective, and an anti-oppressive lens on the reality that we're in a neurotypical world. I would encourage people who are interested in an Autism Assessment to check out my website which has more information. I also run a group for Autistic folks who need to peer support and Autistic connection to thrive. My website has more information about dates and time, group starts this fall in September and runs Wednesday evenings.
I am accepting folks for weekly individual therapy. I use a neurodiversity affirming, strengths-based perspective, and an anti-oppressive lens on the reality that we're in a neurotypical world. I would encourage people who are interested in an Autism Assessment to check out my website which has more information. I also run a group for Autistic folks who need to peer support and Autistic connection to thrive. My website has more information about dates and time, group starts this fall in September and runs Wednesday evenings.
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Photo of Michael Linkevich, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Linkevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Is something out of balance in your life? With yourself? Your child? Your effectiveness as a parent? Your relationships? Life circumstances/transitions? If it is, please know that my way of practicing is to non-judgmentally understand what is going on--what area of your life is being negatively impacted. Then we can collaboratively work on establishing goals and a treatment plan. Whether it is Anxiety, OCD, Autism (including very young kids with autism), Depression/Bipolar, Behavior Problems, ADHD, Trauma or Insomnia, there is a way for you or your child to feel more in control, grounded and balanced.
Is something out of balance in your life? With yourself? Your child? Your effectiveness as a parent? Your relationships? Life circumstances/transitions? If it is, please know that my way of practicing is to non-judgmentally understand what is going on--what area of your life is being negatively impacted. Then we can collaboratively work on establishing goals and a treatment plan. Whether it is Anxiety, OCD, Autism (including very young kids with autism), Depression/Bipolar, Behavior Problems, ADHD, Trauma or Insomnia, there is a way for you or your child to feel more in control, grounded and balanced.
(734) 800-8440 View (734) 800-8440
Photo of Katie Sawchuk, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Katie Sawchuk
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
Located in Ann Arbor, I provide individual and family therapy, psychological testing and consultation services to children, adolescents, young adults and families to help them find direction, support and feel empowered in their every day lives. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My expertise includes providing evidenced-based care for individuals with neurodiversity (Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD), depression, anxiety, identity development, as well as supportive parent management training. I provide both psychotherapy and ASD testing services.
Located in Ann Arbor, I provide individual and family therapy, psychological testing and consultation services to children, adolescents, young adults and families to help them find direction, support and feel empowered in their every day lives. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My expertise includes providing evidenced-based care for individuals with neurodiversity (Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD), depression, anxiety, identity development, as well as supportive parent management training. I provide both psychotherapy and ASD testing services.
(734) 807-3254 View (734) 807-3254
Photo of Bronwyn Murray, PsyD, Psychologist
Bronwyn Murray
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Not accepting new clients
I completed a post-doctoral specialization in working with college students on the autism spectrum at the University of Michigan.
I will help you find a way to connect to others that doesn't feel forced or overwhelming. Feeling sad or angry for no reason; worried that you'll always be alone, that you don't have anything interesting to say or that no-one will accept you for what you are; feeling overlooked or misunderstood -these issues can be successfully addressed.
I completed a post-doctoral specialization in working with college students on the autism spectrum at the University of Michigan.
I will help you find a way to connect to others that doesn't feel forced or overwhelming. Feeling sad or angry for no reason; worried that you'll always be alone, that you don't have anything interesting to say or that no-one will accept you for what you are; feeling overlooked or misunderstood -these issues can be successfully addressed.
(734) 606-0384 View (734) 606-0384
Photo of Jen McCulloch, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen McCulloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I provide caring support to clients with emotional, behavioral, academic and professional needs. Some of the areas I support include: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Healthy Aging, and Self-Esteem Difficulties. I provide Psychotherapy along with Executive Function interventions. My approach includes a strength-based model to support clients in creating and meeting the goals they establish for their own growth. I am enthusiastic about helping individuals to find their strengths and to be their personal best.
I provide caring support to clients with emotional, behavioral, academic and professional needs. Some of the areas I support include: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Healthy Aging, and Self-Esteem Difficulties. I provide Psychotherapy along with Executive Function interventions. My approach includes a strength-based model to support clients in creating and meeting the goals they establish for their own growth. I am enthusiastic about helping individuals to find their strengths and to be their personal best.
(734) 823-7955 View (734) 823-7955
Photo of Mark Bowers, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Dr. Mark Bowers is a Pediatric Psychologist in Brighton, MI. He is clinical director of the Brighton Center. He has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 25 years. He specializes in neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.e., Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Learning Difficulties. Dr. Bowers is Neurodiversity-Affirming. He developed an app (www.mysosh.com) to help children improve their social skills that has been downloaded in over 60 countries and is being used in elementary/high schools and colleges across the US.
Dr. Mark Bowers is a Pediatric Psychologist in Brighton, MI. He is clinical director of the Brighton Center. He has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 25 years. He specializes in neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.e., Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Learning Difficulties. Dr. Bowers is Neurodiversity-Affirming. He developed an app (www.mysosh.com) to help children improve their social skills that has been downloaded in over 60 countries and is being used in elementary/high schools and colleges across the US.
(810) 479-5285 View (810) 479-5285
Photo of Tammy R McCrory - McCrory Center , LLP, LBA, BCBA, Limited Licensed Psychologist
McCrory Center
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Welcome! I'm Tammy McCrory, a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing top-notch services in psychological evaluations, behavior consultations, and autism diagnostic and treatment. My mission is simple - to help you and your loved ones overcome any obstacles standing in the way of a fulfilling life.
Welcome! I'm Tammy McCrory, a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing top-notch services in psychological evaluations, behavior consultations, and autism diagnostic and treatment. My mission is simple - to help you and your loved ones overcome any obstacles standing in the way of a fulfilling life.
(248) 985-8812 View (248) 985-8812
Photo of Jamie Tauber, MS, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jamie Tauber
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, TLLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I am dedicated and passionate about supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families affected by behavioral, emotional, developmental, and learning disabilities. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, family dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. I am dedicated to using evidence-based treatments and psychoeducation to help clients gain organizational skills and develop their social, emotional, behavioral, and coping skills.
I am dedicated and passionate about supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families affected by behavioral, emotional, developmental, and learning disabilities. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, family dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. I am dedicated to using evidence-based treatments and psychoeducation to help clients gain organizational skills and develop their social, emotional, behavioral, and coping skills.
(734) 822-4971 View (734) 822-4971
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698
Photo of Steven Gilpin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Gilpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I have experience and knowledge in working with individuals that are TBLGQ or live with grief, trauma, autism, PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and many other mental health concerns.
I believe therapy is a space where you can unload things that you are struggling to carry alone, develop clear insight, build greater self-compassion, and address barriers that keep you from achieving your goals. The first step in doing any one of these things is building a strong relationship with your therapist. I strive to make this possible by providing an open, judgement-free, and warm space where you can share who you are and what you are struggling to manage. I regularly work with folx age 14 and up on finding ways to manage their anxious or depressive thinking, and alleviate their stress.
I have experience and knowledge in working with individuals that are TBLGQ or live with grief, trauma, autism, PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and many other mental health concerns.
I believe therapy is a space where you can unload things that you are struggling to carry alone, develop clear insight, build greater self-compassion, and address barriers that keep you from achieving your goals. The first step in doing any one of these things is building a strong relationship with your therapist. I strive to make this possible by providing an open, judgement-free, and warm space where you can share who you are and what you are struggling to manage. I regularly work with folx age 14 and up on finding ways to manage their anxious or depressive thinking, and alleviate their stress.
(734) 869-8070 View (734) 869-8070
Charles Francis Spinazola
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I have over fifty years of providing a complete range of psychological services including neuropsychological evaluations, forensic evaluations, and treatment with psychotherapy and biofeedback. I employ a comprehensive program to assist children, adolescents, and adults with autism, depression, anxiety, AD(H)D, and concussions or traumatic brain injury. I am the only Fully Licensed PhD psychologist in Michigan who combines psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and QEEG-guided neurofeedback protocol development by a Board Certified Neurologist (Dr. Walker at www. neurotherapydallas.com) from the data bases at www.appliedneuroscience.com.
I have over fifty years of providing a complete range of psychological services including neuropsychological evaluations, forensic evaluations, and treatment with psychotherapy and biofeedback. I employ a comprehensive program to assist children, adolescents, and adults with autism, depression, anxiety, AD(H)D, and concussions or traumatic brain injury. I am the only Fully Licensed PhD psychologist in Michigan who combines psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and QEEG-guided neurofeedback protocol development by a Board Certified Neurologist (Dr. Walker at www. neurotherapydallas.com) from the data bases at www.appliedneuroscience.com.
(734) 717-6911 View (734) 717-6911
Photo of Miriam Sherk - Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC, MMT, MT-BC, LLPC
Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC
MMT, MT-BC, LLPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Ann Arbor Music Therapy assists clients of all ages and abilities, including children, adolescents and adults with mental health needs, autism, developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia in reaching their fullest potential through music. Miriam's clinical mental health counseling and music therapy tools are person centered, strength-based, and address the needs of the whole person. If you are seeking emotional or behavioral support for anyone in your family and looking for a supportive, creative, and engaging environment to meet their needs please be in touch.
Ann Arbor Music Therapy assists clients of all ages and abilities, including children, adolescents and adults with mental health needs, autism, developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia in reaching their fullest potential through music. Miriam's clinical mental health counseling and music therapy tools are person centered, strength-based, and address the needs of the whole person. If you are seeking emotional or behavioral support for anyone in your family and looking for a supportive, creative, and engaging environment to meet their needs please be in touch.
(734) 436-3623 View (734) 436-3623
Photo of Karin Lutter Arizala, PhD, Psychologist
Karin Lutter Arizala
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Not accepting new clients
My specialty areas are diverse: ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA+ (transgender health post-doctoral specialty at Stanford), and chronic health issues.
Psychotherapy comes from the Latin for "soul healing," and I aim to support you as you heal your whole self: mind, body, and soul. We will build on your strengths and work as a team to help you gain the clarity you need to achieve your goals. Working from a multicultural framework, I am committed to empowerment, self-advocacy, and "meeting you where you're at" on your path to wellness. Humor is also important to me, and I hope we can find ways to laugh together as we navigate our messy, complex world.
My specialty areas are diverse: ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA+ (transgender health post-doctoral specialty at Stanford), and chronic health issues.
Psychotherapy comes from the Latin for "soul healing," and I aim to support you as you heal your whole self: mind, body, and soul. We will build on your strengths and work as a team to help you gain the clarity you need to achieve your goals. Working from a multicultural framework, I am committed to empowerment, self-advocacy, and "meeting you where you're at" on your path to wellness. Humor is also important to me, and I hope we can find ways to laugh together as we navigate our messy, complex world.
(313) 251-5142 View (313) 251-5142
Photo of Erin Hunter - University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF), PhD
University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF)
PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Besides evidence-based individual and family-centered mental health treatment, UCCF also offers a series of specialized programs, including: Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through our University of Michigan Autism Consultation and Treatment Services (UM-ACTS), an ASD feeding program, and the Early Start Denver Model Parent Training Group.
Welcome! The Mary A. Rackham Institute's (MARI) University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF) offers compassionate, evidence-based, confidential, and culturally humble mental health treatment and testing for children, adolescents, teens, and their families. We serve U-M affiliated families and the local and broader Michigan community. UCCF has a multi-disciplinary staff of psychologists, social workers, a psychiatrist, BCBAs, a speech-language pathologist, and advanced level clinicians-in-training. We are deeply invested in the overall growth and well-being of our diverse clientele. Common presenting concerns include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, parenting management, relationship challenges, grief/loss, testing/evaluation, and behavioral concerns. Our facility was designed with families in mind; our waiting room includes a play room for children, diaper changing stations in all of our restrooms, and child care may be available during appointments depending on U-M student staffing availability.
Besides evidence-based individual and family-centered mental health treatment, UCCF also offers a series of specialized programs, including: Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through our University of Michigan Autism Consultation and Treatment Services (UM-ACTS), an ASD feeding program, and the Early Start Denver Model Parent Training Group.
Welcome! The Mary A. Rackham Institute's (MARI) University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF) offers compassionate, evidence-based, confidential, and culturally humble mental health treatment and testing for children, adolescents, teens, and their families. We serve U-M affiliated families and the local and broader Michigan community. UCCF has a multi-disciplinary staff of psychologists, social workers, a psychiatrist, BCBAs, a speech-language pathologist, and advanced level clinicians-in-training. We are deeply invested in the overall growth and well-being of our diverse clientele. Common presenting concerns include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, parenting management, relationship challenges, grief/loss, testing/evaluation, and behavioral concerns. Our facility was designed with families in mind; our waiting room includes a play room for children, diaper changing stations in all of our restrooms, and child care may be available during appointments depending on U-M student staffing availability.
(734) 259-3184 View (734) 259-3184
Dr. Fiona K. Miller
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Evaluations, Parenting Support, and Therapy for challenges related to: Autism; Anxiety; Depression; Early Life Trauma; Emotional and Behavioral Dysregulation.
Hello. Welcome! I am a Board Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist with extensive experience helping toddlers, children, adolescents and their families cope with life's challenges. In my practice, Alba Psychology USA, I prioritize my clients' relational health, and value excellence in compassionate, individualized, and family-centered care.
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Evaluations, Parenting Support, and Therapy for challenges related to: Autism; Anxiety; Depression; Early Life Trauma; Emotional and Behavioral Dysregulation.
Hello. Welcome! I am a Board Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist with extensive experience helping toddlers, children, adolescents and their families cope with life's challenges. In my practice, Alba Psychology USA, I prioritize my clients' relational health, and value excellence in compassionate, individualized, and family-centered care.
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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.