Autism Therapists in San Antonio, TX
![Photo of Gena Sadler, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07369230-ab2b-457f-be78-1e8755fa27fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gena Sadler
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229 (Online Only)
I specialize in: desensitizing traumatic memories/ ADHD, Autism, Neurodiversity/ LGBTQIA+ community.
My clients often struggle with: chronic unexplained depression, anxiety, or both/ perfectionism/ chronic procrastination/ task initiation/ feeling frozen or stuck/ chronic toxic relationships/ chronic feelings of being misunderstood/ not understanding the world around them or feeling different from others/ social functioning/ undiagnosed conditions or misdiagnosis/ being highly critical of self/ putting others needs before their own/ indecisiveness or disliking making decisions/ seeking control of your environment or others behavior (clean freak, over organization, insisting others take your advice)/ impulsivity/ PDA/ RSD/ or more.
I specialize in: desensitizing traumatic memories/ ADHD, Autism, Neurodiversity/ LGBTQIA+ community.
My clients often struggle with: chronic unexplained depression, anxiety, or both/ perfectionism/ chronic procrastination/ task initiation/ feeling frozen or stuck/ chronic toxic relationships/ chronic feelings of being misunderstood/ not understanding the world around them or feeling different from others/ social functioning/ undiagnosed conditions or misdiagnosis/ being highly critical of self/ putting others needs before their own/ indecisiveness or disliking making decisions/ seeking control of your environment or others behavior (clean freak, over organization, insisting others take your advice)/ impulsivity/ PDA/ RSD/ or more.
![Photo of Lindsey Autumn McGehee, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ad19e1b-f7e7-4935-9141-1ec037342b59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Autumn McGehee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I'm neurodiverse and am happy to help you and your family understand and thrive with the challenges Autism and ADHD can present in relationships and for parents.
Welcome to Therapy! For easy scheduling and communication, visit www.sanantoniofamilytherapist.com/booking.html I'm proud of you for considering getting help. I'm here to tell you that anything you're going through in your personal life, your relationship, your work, or your parenting really can change and improve. There can be a beautiful story for you to write in your future. Having someone who can understand you, believe in your best, and help you overcome the challenges you are facing can make all the difference. It is a good day to stop carrying your struggles alone. Reach out for help today. 210-201-4050
I'm neurodiverse and am happy to help you and your family understand and thrive with the challenges Autism and ADHD can present in relationships and for parents.
Welcome to Therapy! For easy scheduling and communication, visit www.sanantoniofamilytherapist.com/booking.html I'm proud of you for considering getting help. I'm here to tell you that anything you're going through in your personal life, your relationship, your work, or your parenting really can change and improve. There can be a beautiful story for you to write in your future. Having someone who can understand you, believe in your best, and help you overcome the challenges you are facing can make all the difference. It is a good day to stop carrying your struggles alone. Reach out for help today. 210-201-4050
![Photo of Amanda Sharp, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f069db2c-8e43-49e3-88a8-b9ce76ce2a00/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sharp conducts comprehensive psychological evaluations for all ages. Evaluation services include testing for learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental evaluations, other psychological & cognitive (IQ) concerns; diagnostic clarification, adoption cases, foster care services, & more. We also offer psychological testing for independent educational evaluations (IEE), 2e, law enforcement, TPAPN, & related assessments. We assess for school readiness & entrance examinations. We offer CANS assessments. We work closely with families & the community to provide quality care & services to our clients.
Dr. Sharp conducts comprehensive psychological evaluations for all ages. Evaluation services include testing for learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental evaluations, other psychological & cognitive (IQ) concerns; diagnostic clarification, adoption cases, foster care services, & more. We also offer psychological testing for independent educational evaluations (IEE), 2e, law enforcement, TPAPN, & related assessments. We assess for school readiness & entrance examinations. We offer CANS assessments. We work closely with families & the community to provide quality care & services to our clients.
![Photo of Shelby Walter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/261099af-4296-45c0-b3a6-3e6afdae41e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby Walter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I started my educational journey working with children who have special needs, focusing on Autism. The last few years, I have emphasized on working with young children, adolescents, and parents who have experienced multiple traumas. My outlook on working with clients' who have experienced trauma is focusing around the question of "What has happened to you". Assisting the client overcome their personal traumas and seeing the growth and positive outcomes of healing, has to be the most rewarding part of the therapeutic process.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I started my educational journey working with children who have special needs, focusing on Autism. The last few years, I have emphasized on working with young children, adolescents, and parents who have experienced multiple traumas. My outlook on working with clients' who have experienced trauma is focusing around the question of "What has happened to you". Assisting the client overcome their personal traumas and seeing the growth and positive outcomes of healing, has to be the most rewarding part of the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Kimberly Ann Alaniz, LCSW-S, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5218d55-50ce-45e4-bb46-0f50a8dfa508/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Ann Alaniz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, ASDCS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
Kimberly Alaniz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor. She received her Masters of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. Kimberly received clinical supervision post licensure in psychodynamic psychotherapy and family therapy at Clarity Child Guidance Center. She obtained specialized training designating her as a Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist through Evergreen Certifications.
Kimberly Alaniz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor. She received her Masters of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. Kimberly received clinical supervision post licensure in psychodynamic psychotherapy and family therapy at Clarity Child Guidance Center. She obtained specialized training designating her as a Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist through Evergreen Certifications.
![Photo of Miranda M. Solis, MS, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6036023-4f9f-43a6-a70c-48cf86761495/1/320x400.jpeg)
Miranda M. Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQIA+ population as well as with individuals on the Autism spectrum.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQIA+ population as well as with individuals on the Autism spectrum.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Victoria McCool](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10983af3-b17b-42d9-a77a-4896187c4af0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria McCool
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230 (Online Only)
As a mental health therapist, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients aged 16 and above. I specialize in providing support to individuals who are navigating various challenges, such as ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop strategies to enhance their well-being. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the growth and resilience of my clients as they overcome obstacles and find their path to a fulfilling life.
As a mental health therapist, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients aged 16 and above. I specialize in providing support to individuals who are navigating various challenges, such as ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop strategies to enhance their well-being. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the growth and resilience of my clients as they overcome obstacles and find their path to a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Kari Conyers-Brink, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4844d728-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Conyers-Brink
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216 (Online Only)
I have been working in counseling since 2000. I provide individual and family therapy to those having difficulty with depression, anxiety, Autism, anger, ADHD/ADD, trauma, parenting, relationship and family issues.
I have been working in counseling since 2000. I provide individual and family therapy to those having difficulty with depression, anxiety, Autism, anger, ADHD/ADD, trauma, parenting, relationship and family issues.
![Photo of Jennifer Cleveland, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3655e01-ba03-44c3-9eea-c8859111097c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide teletherapy and in person sessions for adults and young adults with ADHD, Autism/Asperger's, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, parenting issues and general life stress.
Are you struggling? I can help. I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals with a variety of issues ranging from depression and anxiety to executive functioning and parenting issues. Often, my clients tell me that they struggle for too long before seeking help because they hope things will improve or they are ashamed of their issues. I am non-judgmental and can offer you the professional help you've been looking for. I hope you reach out today and start your journey of change, hope, and improved mental health.
I provide teletherapy and in person sessions for adults and young adults with ADHD, Autism/Asperger's, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, parenting issues and general life stress.
Are you struggling? I can help. I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals with a variety of issues ranging from depression and anxiety to executive functioning and parenting issues. Often, my clients tell me that they struggle for too long before seeking help because they hope things will improve or they are ashamed of their issues. I am non-judgmental and can offer you the professional help you've been looking for. I hope you reach out today and start your journey of change, hope, and improved mental health.
![Photo of Sandra Araiza Salazar, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c68d9530-00f4-4b7a-b058-099f412eefc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Araiza Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
I believe in restoring hope for individuals and families. My clients have needed support for relationship issues, ADHD, autism spectrum, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. One of the most important elements in getting the help you need is finding the right therapist with experience and knowledge. By building trust with my clients, they feel understood and supported. Learning new ways to handle challenges can bring healing and comfort in times of distress. If you or your loved one shows signs or symptoms of a mental health concern, there is hope. Please seek help from a trained professional who has clinical experience.
I believe in restoring hope for individuals and families. My clients have needed support for relationship issues, ADHD, autism spectrum, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. One of the most important elements in getting the help you need is finding the right therapist with experience and knowledge. By building trust with my clients, they feel understood and supported. Learning new ways to handle challenges can bring healing and comfort in times of distress. If you or your loved one shows signs or symptoms of a mental health concern, there is hope. Please seek help from a trained professional who has clinical experience.
![Photo of Carrie N Dilley, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90aa81b9-6c4c-403d-b1b7-5af96274563c/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
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![Photo of (Mary) Susan Lyons, MS, LPC, # 83754, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f21e16c-d19a-439e-bb9f-3650453559d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
(Mary) Susan Lyons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, # 83754
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Susan, a proud former Marine and native Texan with a heartfelt dedication to providing therapeutic support. I've also had the privilege of working extensively with adults facing various challenges, including Intellectual Developmental Disabilities, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Usher Syndrome, and more. As a Neuro-diverse individual myself, I have a special affinity for working with Neuro-Diverse individuals, along with veterans.
Greetings! I'm Susan, a proud former Marine and native Texan with a heartfelt dedication to providing therapeutic support. I've also had the privilege of working extensively with adults facing various challenges, including Intellectual Developmental Disabilities, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Usher Syndrome, and more. As a Neuro-diverse individual myself, I have a special affinity for working with Neuro-Diverse individuals, along with veterans.
![Photo of Dejai Nelson-Parten, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aefcb586-3c70-4c9a-ac93-e61bd61aab5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dejai Nelson-Parten
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78207
Supervised by Christina Watts-Figueroa, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S. I strive to be authentic and human in session with my clients to promote a safe environment. After working 5 years in the field of ABA therapy I took on counseling as I saw a greater need for parents and adults in dealing with an Autism diagnosis. I heavily focus on experiential processing in session with all clients to provide an alternative form of communication. I love to work with the communities I have been apart of such as military, LGBTQ+, and mixed race background. I would love to make a safe space for you.
Supervised by Christina Watts-Figueroa, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S. I strive to be authentic and human in session with my clients to promote a safe environment. After working 5 years in the field of ABA therapy I took on counseling as I saw a greater need for parents and adults in dealing with an Autism diagnosis. I heavily focus on experiential processing in session with all clients to provide an alternative form of communication. I love to work with the communities I have been apart of such as military, LGBTQ+, and mixed race background. I would love to make a safe space for you.
![Photo of Jessica H. Smith, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b59c0f6-d2b5-4222-b998-6e23ceb369b6/2/320x400.png)
Jessica H. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78202
The world can be a tough place for neurodivergent folks. ADHD, autism, chronic illness, trauma, disability and mental health struggles can sometimes make meeting your own basic, everyday needs feel exhausting. Keeping up with the responsibilities and demands of life might leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ashamed, lonely or embarrassed. Other people don't seem to understand why it's so hard for you and sometimes neither do you! You have so many strengths, but it feels like they're buried under layers of self-doubt, frustration and burnout. You're not broken. Your needs are different. You deserve support. We SO get it.
The world can be a tough place for neurodivergent folks. ADHD, autism, chronic illness, trauma, disability and mental health struggles can sometimes make meeting your own basic, everyday needs feel exhausting. Keeping up with the responsibilities and demands of life might leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ashamed, lonely or embarrassed. Other people don't seem to understand why it's so hard for you and sometimes neither do you! You have so many strengths, but it feels like they're buried under layers of self-doubt, frustration and burnout. You're not broken. Your needs are different. You deserve support. We SO get it.
![Photo of Lisamarie Ray - Sword Of the Lord Biblical Counseling and Training, BA , Chap, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54ab43b7-4a34-4ac4-a11e-733258cdd54c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sword Of the Lord Biblical Counseling and Training
Pastoral Counselor, BA , Chap
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201
Our counselors are trained and experienced to provide biblically based counseling for Individuals, Couples, Parents, Teens, and Children. Some of our specialties are- Teen and child focused counseling, Parent coaching, Anxiety, Depression, Women's issues, PTSD, Trauma, Addiction, Marriage counseling, family counseling, adoption issues, Men's counseling, TBRI Informed counseling, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We are also Interactive Metronome Therapy Providers and are trained parent coaches. (Certified in parenting after trauma). We do not bill insurance but can provide you with a Superbill to submit to your insurance.
Our counselors are trained and experienced to provide biblically based counseling for Individuals, Couples, Parents, Teens, and Children. Some of our specialties are- Teen and child focused counseling, Parent coaching, Anxiety, Depression, Women's issues, PTSD, Trauma, Addiction, Marriage counseling, family counseling, adoption issues, Men's counseling, TBRI Informed counseling, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We are also Interactive Metronome Therapy Providers and are trained parent coaches. (Certified in parenting after trauma). We do not bill insurance but can provide you with a Superbill to submit to your insurance.
![Photo of Dr. Temora P. Gray, PhD, LBA, , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e166011c-5a3a-4abc-8340-61a53cd1d700/3/320x400.jpeg)
Experienced clinical psychologist providing psychological and applied behavior analysis services to clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD. I design treatment for autism based on the results of a functional assessment and create person-centered target goals. I create skill-based interventions that are socially valid to the patient. Techniques are based on the principles of applied behavior analysis with proven results. I provide various psychological services to patients ages 16 through 55.
Experienced clinical psychologist providing psychological and applied behavior analysis services to clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD. I design treatment for autism based on the results of a functional assessment and create person-centered target goals. I create skill-based interventions that are socially valid to the patient. Techniques are based on the principles of applied behavior analysis with proven results. I provide various psychological services to patients ages 16 through 55.
![Photo of Hollee Becerra, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a26f8de4-75f8-486b-8e62-e18db7800c58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hollee Becerra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a feminist, culturally sensitive therapist who specializes in working with adults in the LGBTQIA+ community, who are on the autism spectrum, and who are recovering from religious trauma, spiritual abuse, and adverse religious experiences.
Welcome! I am a feminist, culturally sensitive therapist who specializes in working with adults in the LGBTQIA+ community, who are on the autism spectrum, and who are recovering from religious trauma, spiritual abuse, and adverse religious experiences.
![Photo of Whitney Cisneros, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/359c94d6-c453-432e-bc82-63bbc3348897/2/320x400.png)
Have you been feeling like everything is falling apart? Have you been struggling to obtain the life you want? Are you struggling to navigate Neurodiversity/ Autism? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then it's time for some help. I believe creativity is at the heart of the healing journey. So, I take a nontraditional approach to therapy to help you or your loved one meet their goals. Contact me today.
Have you been feeling like everything is falling apart? Have you been struggling to obtain the life you want? Are you struggling to navigate Neurodiversity/ Autism? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then it's time for some help. I believe creativity is at the heart of the healing journey. So, I take a nontraditional approach to therapy to help you or your loved one meet their goals. Contact me today.
![Photo of Dr. Michelle Zweibach - Brainstorm Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cdfafa4-3f7a-4e3d-bdb5-eb4a3fdebb79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brainstorm Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Dr. Michelle Zweibach completes comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children and adults. She can diagnose and provide recommendations for the following suspected conditions: learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, etc.), giftedness, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, and more. Visit www.brainstormpsych.com for more information.
Dr. Michelle Zweibach completes comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children and adults. She can diagnose and provide recommendations for the following suspected conditions: learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, etc.), giftedness, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, and more. Visit www.brainstormpsych.com for more information.
![Photo of Dr. Erin Coggan, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aec5b7c-5353-4f1e-9428-b45f5c37e4e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Having difficulty getting through the day, feeling overwhelmed, or simply looking to improve your life? I work with children, teens, and adults to take back control of their lives and empower them to acknowledge their past and change their future in a safe, strengths-based environment. I specialize in treating trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety. I'm also interested in working with athletes who have recently completed their competitive careers. Additionally, I assess for autism, learning disabilities, and ADHD to aid clients in understanding themselves or child and providing recommendations to get the support they need.
Having difficulty getting through the day, feeling overwhelmed, or simply looking to improve your life? I work with children, teens, and adults to take back control of their lives and empower them to acknowledge their past and change their future in a safe, strengths-based environment. I specialize in treating trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety. I'm also interested in working with athletes who have recently completed their competitive careers. Additionally, I assess for autism, learning disabilities, and ADHD to aid clients in understanding themselves or child and providing recommendations to get the support they need.
See more therapy options for San Antonio
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for San Antonio
- Alamo Heights
- Boerne
- Bulverde
- Cibolo
- Garden Ridge
- Helotes
- Live Oak
- New Braunfels
- San Marcos
- Schertz
- Shavano Park
- Spring Branch
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.