Autism Therapists in Trumbull County, OH

Photo of Michele Hawn, MA, PCC-S, NCC, CDCA, Counselor
Michele Hawn
Counselor, MA, PCC-S, NCC, CDCA
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
I believe everyone has the power to change but may not know how to do so. A person may think that just because they've been doing things "all their life" doesn't mean that it's for the rest of their life. I have over ten years experience helping kids,families and adults change behaviors/patterns that cause them problems in their lives. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction/alcoholism, divorce, relationship issues, panic, phobias, chronic pain, self esteem, bullying, ADHD, OCD, behavior problems, parenting issues, bipolar, anger issues, autism, aspbergers and personality disorders.
I believe everyone has the power to change but may not know how to do so. A person may think that just because they've been doing things "all their life" doesn't mean that it's for the rest of their life. I have over ten years experience helping kids,families and adults change behaviors/patterns that cause them problems in their lives. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction/alcoholism, divorce, relationship issues, panic, phobias, chronic pain, self esteem, bullying, ADHD, OCD, behavior problems, parenting issues, bipolar, anger issues, autism, aspbergers and personality disorders.
(330) 470-0382 View (330) 470-0382
Photo of Justin Shelton, PsyD, Psychologist
Justin Shelton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
Dr. Shelton is a clinical psychologist, born and raised in the Mahoning Valley. He has experience working in a variety of settings, including community mental health, behavioral schools, college counseling, outpatient clinics, inpatient hospitals and corrections. He enjoys working with a wide range of patient populations of all ages and demographics, providing individual, family, and couples psychotherapy. Over the course of his career, Dr. Shelton has worked with patients struggling with a multitude of concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity concerns, behavioral problems, schizophrenia, personality disorders and more.
Dr. Shelton is a clinical psychologist, born and raised in the Mahoning Valley. He has experience working in a variety of settings, including community mental health, behavioral schools, college counseling, outpatient clinics, inpatient hospitals and corrections. He enjoys working with a wide range of patient populations of all ages and demographics, providing individual, family, and couples psychotherapy. Over the course of his career, Dr. Shelton has worked with patients struggling with a multitude of concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity concerns, behavioral problems, schizophrenia, personality disorders and more.
(330) 654-6495 View (330) 654-6495
Photo of Karin J Worrell, PhD, Psychologist
Karin J Worrell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44483
Providing a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship is a priority in treatment. I strive to guide people to develop their inner strengths and wisdom, and to release negative thought and behavioral patterns through a variety of therapeutic techniques. I am highly trauma-focused, as well as spiritually-oriented. A relaxed and non-judgmental environment is provided to all persons, regardless of culture, religion, age, economic status, sexuality, or gender. I treat all ages and all mental health concerns and collaborate with needed professionals to ensure the most effective treatment. Office hours are usually available to accommodate work and school schedules.
Providing a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship is a priority in treatment. I strive to guide people to develop their inner strengths and wisdom, and to release negative thought and behavioral patterns through a variety of therapeutic techniques. I am highly trauma-focused, as well as spiritually-oriented. A relaxed and non-judgmental environment is provided to all persons, regardless of culture, religion, age, economic status, sexuality, or gender. I treat all ages and all mental health concerns and collaborate with needed professionals to ensure the most effective treatment. Office hours are usually available to accommodate work and school schedules.
(330) 341-8903 View (330) 341-8903
Photo of Brooke Shorrab, MSEd, LPCC, Counselor
Brooke Shorrab
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, OH 44485  (Online Only)
The ideal client is someone who recognizes a need for change. Struggling with insecurity, loneliness, unshakable sadness, anxiety, stress, emotion identification and expression, self harm, trauma, gender/sexual identity issues, interconnectedness, and honest communication is commonplace in our current society. There is strength in reaching out to build connections and skills with a trusted professional. My goal is to help you do better in all aspects of life as I work alongside you to accomplish the same.
The ideal client is someone who recognizes a need for change. Struggling with insecurity, loneliness, unshakable sadness, anxiety, stress, emotion identification and expression, self harm, trauma, gender/sexual identity issues, interconnectedness, and honest communication is commonplace in our current society. There is strength in reaching out to build connections and skills with a trusted professional. My goal is to help you do better in all aspects of life as I work alongside you to accomplish the same.
(330) 648-4897 View (330) 648-4897

Online Therapists

Photo of Sam Miller, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44113
Sam’s areas of interest include anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality identity exploration, trauma recovery, Autism, and ADHD.
Sam is highly passionate about providing support and advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals. The majority of her professional experience has been dedicated to working with LGBTQ+ youth and adults in individual counseling and community settings. Sam believes that each individual is the expert in their own lives. She utilizes a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach that caters to each client’s unique needs and perspectives. Sam is passionate about providing a therapeutic environment that is sex-positive, gender- affirming, and neurodivergent- affirming.
Sam’s areas of interest include anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality identity exploration, trauma recovery, Autism, and ADHD.
Sam is highly passionate about providing support and advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals. The majority of her professional experience has been dedicated to working with LGBTQ+ youth and adults in individual counseling and community settings. Sam believes that each individual is the expert in their own lives. She utilizes a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach that caters to each client’s unique needs and perspectives. Sam is passionate about providing a therapeutic environment that is sex-positive, gender- affirming, and neurodivergent- affirming.
(440) 273-7697 View (440) 273-7697
Photo of Kenneth J Smith, MS, MA, LPCC-S, ASDCS, Counselor
Kenneth J Smith
Counselor, MS, MA, LPCC-S, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Homeworth, OH 44634
Assessing and diagnosing Autism in the context of therapy.
Helping people with social communication, assertiveness, & Autism/nerd features of personality. Best way to schedule is via form at www.theautismexpert.com. Developing social communication and assertiveness can help relieve anxiety, get your needs/rights met, and improve self esteem. You will develop these skills in various personalized ways including psycho-education, role playing, learning the actual words/behaviors of assertiveness. Your improvement may also include treating other mental challenges that get in your way such as anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, & OCD.
Assessing and diagnosing Autism in the context of therapy.
Helping people with social communication, assertiveness, & Autism/nerd features of personality. Best way to schedule is via form at www.theautismexpert.com. Developing social communication and assertiveness can help relieve anxiety, get your needs/rights met, and improve self esteem. You will develop these skills in various personalized ways including psycho-education, role playing, learning the actual words/behaviors of assertiveness. Your improvement may also include treating other mental challenges that get in your way such as anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, & OCD.
(614) 482-2356 View (614) 482-2356
Photo of Emily Majors, LISW-S, ACDCS, ADHD-CC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Majors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ACDCS, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OH 44805
I have really found myself drawn to working ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (including late diagnosed), and several Trauma-Informed modalities.
Hello! I have been working in mental health for 15 years. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, with special interest and care given to neurodivergence, trauma work, generational trauma/relational concerns and somatic work.
I have really found myself drawn to working ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (including late diagnosed), and several Trauma-Informed modalities.
Hello! I have been working in mental health for 15 years. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, with special interest and care given to neurodivergence, trauma work, generational trauma/relational concerns and somatic work.
(419) 504-4451 View (419) 504-4451
Photo of Lisa Demeter, LISW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Demeter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Mentor, OH 44060
I am experienced in Grief therapy, Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Psychosis, Bariatric Counseling.
Life is full of challenges, and working with people has shown me the resiliency and inner strength people possess. My trauma informed focus is to help identify personal goals and strengths to develop a plan to meet your personal goals and success. My experiences with individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities, autism and cancer helped me to understand the importance of both physical and mental health. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused techniques. I am experienced in Grief therapy, Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Psychosis, Bariatric Counseling. Anxiety, and Depression.
I am experienced in Grief therapy, Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Psychosis, Bariatric Counseling.
Life is full of challenges, and working with people has shown me the resiliency and inner strength people possess. My trauma informed focus is to help identify personal goals and strengths to develop a plan to meet your personal goals and success. My experiences with individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities, autism and cancer helped me to understand the importance of both physical and mental health. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused techniques. I am experienced in Grief therapy, Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Psychosis, Bariatric Counseling. Anxiety, and Depression.
(440) 291-5797 View (440) 291-5797
Photo of Jeffrey S Berman, MEd, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey S Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lorain, OH 44053
My areas of specialty include anger management, social skills, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities/ school issues, depression disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I received a Master of Social Work from Tulane University, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of New Orleans, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Writing Arts from State University of New York at Oswego. I have worked in both community-based mental health as well as private practice. Before counseling, I taught in schools in New Orleans and Boston, working with students with disabilities. I am located in Ohio and am also licensed to practice virtually in Florida.
My areas of specialty include anger management, social skills, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities/ school issues, depression disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I received a Master of Social Work from Tulane University, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of New Orleans, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Writing Arts from State University of New York at Oswego. I have worked in both community-based mental health as well as private practice. Before counseling, I taught in schools in New Orleans and Boston, working with students with disabilities. I am located in Ohio and am also licensed to practice virtually in Florida.
(216) 910-5179 View (216) 910-5179
Photo of Matthew Escano, MA , LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Escano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44333
I have experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, pornography addiction, and autism, & I have worked with many other disorders over my nearly ten years of experience. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Behavior Modification, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, and I ground my approach in positive psychology. I am growth-oriented and interested in exploring how my clients can achieve full human flourishing from a holistic perspective.
I have experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, pornography addiction, and autism, & I have worked with many other disorders over my nearly ten years of experience. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Behavior Modification, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, and I ground my approach in positive psychology. I am growth-oriented and interested in exploring how my clients can achieve full human flourishing from a holistic perspective.
(330) 632-3973 View (330) 632-3973
Photo of Larissa Bartnicki, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Bartnicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I’ve worked with various individuals struggling with, but not limited to, addiction, co-occurring disorders, autism, early childhood abuse/neglect, and trauma. I’ve also worked with clients seeking relief from anxiety and depression. I also see couples seeking relationship/marriage building and strengthening.
I’ve worked with various individuals struggling with, but not limited to, addiction, co-occurring disorders, autism, early childhood abuse/neglect, and trauma. I’ve also worked with clients seeking relief from anxiety and depression. I also see couples seeking relationship/marriage building and strengthening.
(740) 547-0596 View (740) 547-0596
Photo of Stephanie Brooke, LPCC, MSEd
Stephanie Brooke
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406  (Online Only)
Often, my clients are looking for support with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, neurodivergence (ADHD/ Autism), low self-esteem, postpartum depression/OCD, domestic violence survivors, grief, as well as many others.
Please go to my website for more information about us! I am SO proud of you for making it this far! I am passionate about working with teens and adults. I aim to provide supportive and understanding care while helping you reach all of your goals. It can be really challenging to learn new habits, process past trauma, hold ourselves accountable, and reach even the smallest of goals. My goal is to help you get to a point where you can be your best self. Healing isn't linear and sometimes we just need a little help reaching our goals!
Often, my clients are looking for support with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, neurodivergence (ADHD/ Autism), low self-esteem, postpartum depression/OCD, domestic violence survivors, grief, as well as many others.
Please go to my website for more information about us! I am SO proud of you for making it this far! I am passionate about working with teens and adults. I aim to provide supportive and understanding care while helping you reach all of your goals. It can be really challenging to learn new habits, process past trauma, hold ourselves accountable, and reach even the smallest of goals. My goal is to help you get to a point where you can be your best self. Healing isn't linear and sometimes we just need a little help reaching our goals!
(330) 449-4292 View (330) 449-4292
Photo of Elizabeth Anne Schneps, MSW, LSW
Elizabeth Anne Schneps
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
I specialize in working with young adults and older teens that have struggled with learning disabilities or had mental health issues such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, which have affected their overall academic or work success.
I am here to help you by being an empathetic listener and to guiding you through the process of working towards your life goals. My goal is to help you to be successful by building your skills to develop into the person that you want to be. I am the person who you can turn to with your thoughts, concerns, and problems. Each session is guided by you, as we review your progress towards your goals. We can discuss the barriers you face and find ways you can manage your feelings so you can continue to feel happy in life and with yourself.
I specialize in working with young adults and older teens that have struggled with learning disabilities or had mental health issues such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, which have affected their overall academic or work success.
I am here to help you by being an empathetic listener and to guiding you through the process of working towards your life goals. My goal is to help you to be successful by building your skills to develop into the person that you want to be. I am the person who you can turn to with your thoughts, concerns, and problems. Each session is guided by you, as we review your progress towards your goals. We can discuss the barriers you face and find ways you can manage your feelings so you can continue to feel happy in life and with yourself.
(216) 714-1921 View (216) 714-1921
Photo of Veronica Bellay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Bellay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44102  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Hello, I am looking forward to meeting with you and assisting you feel your best. Life can be stressful, changes in jobs, relationships and parenting; change and stressors can be difficult at times. If you are wanting a more productive and less stressed life I can help. Often simple strategies and learning a few coping skills can make the difference. As a professional in the disability field, I can help navigate parenting a child with disabilities. I can help you learn relaxation skills and ways to prioritizing the mundane tasks in life.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Hello, I am looking forward to meeting with you and assisting you feel your best. Life can be stressful, changes in jobs, relationships and parenting; change and stressors can be difficult at times. If you are wanting a more productive and less stressed life I can help. Often simple strategies and learning a few coping skills can make the difference. As a professional in the disability field, I can help navigate parenting a child with disabilities. I can help you learn relaxation skills and ways to prioritizing the mundane tasks in life.
(513) 822-5982 View (513) 822-5982
Photo of Celisa Hardesty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celisa Hardesty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44111  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Celisa, I am a LISSS based in the great state of Ohio (Go Bucks!) and I have been a practicing therapist for approximately nine years. I graduated with my masters in social work from The Ohio State University and my focus was co-occurring disorders. Currently I work mostly with adolescents and specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, trauma, self-esteem, psychosis, and kids who are on the Autism spectrum.
Hello, my name is Celisa, I am a LISSS based in the great state of Ohio (Go Bucks!) and I have been a practicing therapist for approximately nine years. I graduated with my masters in social work from The Ohio State University and my focus was co-occurring disorders. Currently I work mostly with adolescents and specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, trauma, self-esteem, psychosis, and kids who are on the Autism spectrum.
(740) 327-5676 View (740) 327-5676
Photo of Carrie Buchanan, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Buchanan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma or trying to navigate life with autism or ADHD, you are not alone. Maybe you want support with managing emotions, recovering from difficult experiences like coercive control or need help with executive functioning. I work with people just like you, and more, who want to feel more in control, understood and at peace. Together we will explore your needs and goals, whether it is reducing anxiety, healing from trauma or developing life strategies that work for your unique brain.
Welcome! If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma or trying to navigate life with autism or ADHD, you are not alone. Maybe you want support with managing emotions, recovering from difficult experiences like coercive control or need help with executive functioning. I work with people just like you, and more, who want to feel more in control, understood and at peace. Together we will explore your needs and goals, whether it is reducing anxiety, healing from trauma or developing life strategies that work for your unique brain.
(330) 537-1499 View (330) 537-1499
Photo of Sarah Hope Lincoln, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Hope Lincoln
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
, OCD, GAD, SAD), depression, self-harm, trauma/PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, psychosis, and behavioral disorders of childhood (e.
Everyone experiences challenges throughout their lives, and each of us is equipped with different strengths to tackle them. Sometimes we need to acquire additional support to develop new skills and strategies, and have a source of encouragement, in facing these challenges. I aim to help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of academic, learning, behavioral, and psychological challenges, in a supportive, warm, and collaborative environment. I work with incredible individuals and am honored to work with them!
, OCD, GAD, SAD), depression, self-harm, trauma/PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, psychosis, and behavioral disorders of childhood (e.
Everyone experiences challenges throughout their lives, and each of us is equipped with different strengths to tackle them. Sometimes we need to acquire additional support to develop new skills and strategies, and have a source of encouragement, in facing these challenges. I aim to help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of academic, learning, behavioral, and psychological challenges, in a supportive, warm, and collaborative environment. I work with incredible individuals and am honored to work with them!
(617) 553-6351 View (617) 553-6351
Photo of Matthew Nelson, MSW, LISW, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, LICDC
Verified Verified
Wellington, OH 44090
I draw from a varied and unique professional background that includes experience working with intellectual and cognitive disabilities, those with autism spectrum disorders, community mental health, secondary education, and community corrections to provide personalized, culturally informed treatment aimed at helping his clients reach their maximum potential.
While there is no such thing as an ideal client, I deeply enjoy working with individuals who enjoy exploring the complexities of human existence and how their previous experiences have shaped their present day lives. I enjoy working with those who strive to improve their day to day functioning through self reflection, introspection and commitment to continual personal and emotional growth.
I draw from a varied and unique professional background that includes experience working with intellectual and cognitive disabilities, those with autism spectrum disorders, community mental health, secondary education, and community corrections to provide personalized, culturally informed treatment aimed at helping his clients reach their maximum potential.
While there is no such thing as an ideal client, I deeply enjoy working with individuals who enjoy exploring the complexities of human existence and how their previous experiences have shaped their present day lives. I enjoy working with those who strive to improve their day to day functioning through self reflection, introspection and commitment to continual personal and emotional growth.
(440) 703-6526 View (440) 703-6526
Photo of Joy Serednesky, LPCC-S
Joy Serednesky
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poland, OH 44514
FIND YOUR "JOY" in life again! Let me help you find your "JOY"... personally, professionally, or with your family. My goal is guide you through an individualized treatment plan where my clients feel and function better. I provide a thorough intake, your treatment shouldn't feel like a fast-food drive thru. My specialty is working with neurodivergent clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and/or clients that may process information or their emotions differently.
FIND YOUR "JOY" in life again! Let me help you find your "JOY"... personally, professionally, or with your family. My goal is guide you through an individualized treatment plan where my clients feel and function better. I provide a thorough intake, your treatment shouldn't feel like a fast-food drive thru. My specialty is working with neurodivergent clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and/or clients that may process information or their emotions differently.
(330) 222-3787 View (330) 222-3787
Photo of Patricia Lynn Saddle, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Lynn Saddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodmere, OH 44122
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Looking to make changes but not sure how to move forward? Perhaps I can help. My experience working in business, healthcare, college counseling, and mental health has given me a range of skills and the ability to work with issues related to adolescents and adults dealing with life transitions. My role as a counselor is to empower clients so they can move forward. Depending on the situation, my approach ranges from a gentle nudge to direct suggestions. I specialize in working with students, adult clients, adults with perfectionist thinking and ADHD, and high functioning autism. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Looking to make changes but not sure how to move forward? Perhaps I can help. My experience working in business, healthcare, college counseling, and mental health has given me a range of skills and the ability to work with issues related to adolescents and adults dealing with life transitions. My role as a counselor is to empower clients so they can move forward. Depending on the situation, my approach ranges from a gentle nudge to direct suggestions. I specialize in working with students, adult clients, adults with perfectionist thinking and ADHD, and high functioning autism. LGBTQ+ friendly.
(216) 584-9302 View (216) 584-9302

See more therapy options for Trumbull County

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.