Autism Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Jennifer Monahan DeMella, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Monahan DeMella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Sana Psychological, PLLC is a team of clinical psychologists and post-doctoral fellows with specialized training in assessing psychological and neurodevelopmental challenges, including autism, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays & mood concerns.
Have you ever wondered why your child might be struggling? Do you see a vibrant kid at home that stumbles at school or socially? Or the opposite - do you hear wonderful evaluations of your child and then things come crashing down at home? Or maybe you’ve noticed – or a loved one has mentioned – mood changes, increased worry and restlessness, social withdrawal, changes in sleep or eating habits, difficulty concentrating, difficulty remembering things, trouble performing your usual tasks, or a lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed. We specialize in neurodevelopmental disorders. Our goal is to find ways to help you thrive.
Sana Psychological, PLLC is a team of clinical psychologists and post-doctoral fellows with specialized training in assessing psychological and neurodevelopmental challenges, including autism, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays & mood concerns.
Have you ever wondered why your child might be struggling? Do you see a vibrant kid at home that stumbles at school or socially? Or the opposite - do you hear wonderful evaluations of your child and then things come crashing down at home? Or maybe you’ve noticed – or a loved one has mentioned – mood changes, increased worry and restlessness, social withdrawal, changes in sleep or eating habits, difficulty concentrating, difficulty remembering things, trouble performing your usual tasks, or a lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed. We specialize in neurodevelopmental disorders. Our goal is to find ways to help you thrive.
(425) 215-0236 View (425) 215-0236
Photo of Dr. Lindsy Crane-Martens, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Lindsy Crane-Martens
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, and assessment (ADHD & Autism).
You are trying so hard but it never seem good enough; You are exhausted but can’t seem to rest; You’ve tried to find peace but you can’t seem to quiet your mind; You feel like you are always letting someone down; You catch yourself asking “what is the point”. You want to feel at ease with yourself; You want to feel enough without having to be perfect; You want to feel connected with your loved ones; You want to feel in control of your life; You want to feel present in important moments; You want to find joy and passion once again.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, and assessment (ADHD & Autism).
You are trying so hard but it never seem good enough; You are exhausted but can’t seem to rest; You’ve tried to find peace but you can’t seem to quiet your mind; You feel like you are always letting someone down; You catch yourself asking “what is the point”. You want to feel at ease with yourself; You want to feel enough without having to be perfect; You want to feel connected with your loved ones; You want to feel in control of your life; You want to feel present in important moments; You want to find joy and passion once again.
(206) 971-6857 View (206) 971-6857
Photo of Ryne Evans - Mindful Way Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mindful Way Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Our services are affirming for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism.
Accepting Medicaid (Medicaid) 8/26. Our best contact method is via our website inquirry form. Are you feeling out of place in a world that seems to misunderstand you because of your identity? Perhaps you or your teen are navigating the challenges of being neurodiverse while trying to be successful in your job or at school. Or maybe you are struggling with intimacy, connection or communication with your spouse or partner because of unresolved experiences from your past. At Mindful Way, our therapists are ready to help you learn to let go of that idea that there is a "right" or "normal" way to exist, and begin to live your true self.
Our services are affirming for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism.
Accepting Medicaid (Medicaid) 8/26. Our best contact method is via our website inquirry form. Are you feeling out of place in a world that seems to misunderstand you because of your identity? Perhaps you or your teen are navigating the challenges of being neurodiverse while trying to be successful in your job or at school. Or maybe you are struggling with intimacy, connection or communication with your spouse or partner because of unresolved experiences from your past. At Mindful Way, our therapists are ready to help you learn to let go of that idea that there is a "right" or "normal" way to exist, and begin to live your true self.
(206) 737-1159 View (206) 737-1159
Photo of Raffael Boccamazzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Raffael Boccamazzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126
I greatly enjoy helping people find answers and their strengths! Psychological assessments can be a powerful way of doing exactly that! I’m an openly AuDHD, geeky psychologist who actively works in the game industry, and I'd love to help you live the kind of life you find fulfilling. If you're a geek or gamer who is having a hard time finding a mental health professional who understands the nuances of your hobbies, passions, and maybe even your current or future career, I might be the person to work with. If you suspect you might have an ADHD or autism diagnosis, I also might be the person to work with.
I greatly enjoy helping people find answers and their strengths! Psychological assessments can be a powerful way of doing exactly that! I’m an openly AuDHD, geeky psychologist who actively works in the game industry, and I'd love to help you live the kind of life you find fulfilling. If you're a geek or gamer who is having a hard time finding a mental health professional who understands the nuances of your hobbies, passions, and maybe even your current or future career, I might be the person to work with. If you suspect you might have an ADHD or autism diagnosis, I also might be the person to work with.
(206) 889-5148 View (206) 889-5148
Photo of Emily Hossler - Eastside Mental Health Solutions, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Eastside Mental Health Solutions
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed with the challenges of autism, know that you are not alone.
Are you someone who is looking to improve their daily functioning and overall quality of life? Are you seeking help with communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation? You may be struggling with anxiety or depression, difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or finding a fulfilling career. My goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to develop strategies and tools to help them better navigate the world around them and achieve their individual goals. By creating a safe and supportive environment, I aim to empower my clients to become more confident, independent, and fulfilled individuals.
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed with the challenges of autism, know that you are not alone.
Are you someone who is looking to improve their daily functioning and overall quality of life? Are you seeking help with communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation? You may be struggling with anxiety or depression, difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or finding a fulfilling career. My goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to develop strategies and tools to help them better navigate the world around them and achieve their individual goals. By creating a safe and supportive environment, I aim to empower my clients to become more confident, independent, and fulfilled individuals.
(206) 222-4015 View (206) 222-4015
Photo of Kim MacEachern, PsyD, Psychologist
Kim MacEachern
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Accepting new Testing Clients only at this time. As a clinical psychologist, I offer comprehensive psychological evaluation and assessment services, including specializing in Autism, ADHD, diagnostic clarification evaluations and presurgical evaluations. You will receive evidence-based findings of your diagnosis as well as thorough recommendations and referrals as part of the evaluation process.
Accepting new Testing Clients only at this time. As a clinical psychologist, I offer comprehensive psychological evaluation and assessment services, including specializing in Autism, ADHD, diagnostic clarification evaluations and presurgical evaluations. You will receive evidence-based findings of your diagnosis as well as thorough recommendations and referrals as part of the evaluation process.
(425) 243-1245 View (425) 243-1245
Photo of Jenny Leung, MA, LMFT, E-RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny Leung
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I specialize in working with neurodiverse (ADHD, autism, SPD, highly-sensitive, introvert) or mixed-neurotype couples and couples struggling with intergenerational trauma from childhood, depression, anxiety, cultural or personal identity.
Couple Counseling Only! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). Working exclusively with couples, I help partners to uncover underlying emotions and to communicate more effectively for attention, understanding, compassion and caring. The result is greater warmth, trust, safety and emotional connection. Honest and direct in my approach yet gentle and patient, I am committed to creating compassionate and authentic relationships where each partner feels deeply supported, understood, and seen. I work frequently with couples where one or both partners are of Asian ancestry.
I specialize in working with neurodiverse (ADHD, autism, SPD, highly-sensitive, introvert) or mixed-neurotype couples and couples struggling with intergenerational trauma from childhood, depression, anxiety, cultural or personal identity.
Couple Counseling Only! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). Working exclusively with couples, I help partners to uncover underlying emotions and to communicate more effectively for attention, understanding, compassion and caring. The result is greater warmth, trust, safety and emotional connection. Honest and direct in my approach yet gentle and patient, I am committed to creating compassionate and authentic relationships where each partner feels deeply supported, understood, and seen. I work frequently with couples where one or both partners are of Asian ancestry.
(206) 966-4172 View (206) 966-4172
Photo of Brandi Carey, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Brandi Carey
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Some areas I am especially experienced in working with include past trauma, depression, attachment, ADHD, high-masking autism, OCD, and anxiety.
Have you been told you are "too sensitive" or "too much"? Are you finding it difficult to live in, enjoy, or focus on the present moment? Maybe images, thoughts, or feelings of the past keep appearing despite your best efforts. Perhaps worries of the future and its endless possibilities keep you from sleeping at night. Sometimes it may feel impossible to "just look at the bright side!". This may have led to you being unable to focus at work or school, spending less time with the people or hobbies you care about, or simply going through the motions of day-to-day life.
Some areas I am especially experienced in working with include past trauma, depression, attachment, ADHD, high-masking autism, OCD, and anxiety.
Have you been told you are "too sensitive" or "too much"? Are you finding it difficult to live in, enjoy, or focus on the present moment? Maybe images, thoughts, or feelings of the past keep appearing despite your best efforts. Perhaps worries of the future and its endless possibilities keep you from sleeping at night. Sometimes it may feel impossible to "just look at the bright side!". This may have led to you being unable to focus at work or school, spending less time with the people or hobbies you care about, or simply going through the motions of day-to-day life.
(206) 338-5744 View (206) 338-5744
Photo of Hayden Jones, LMHCA, Counselor
Hayden Jones
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, 2E) individuals and take a strength based approach to working with what keeps people going.
I enjoy helping others to build deep, meaningful connections with not only those in their lives but their own central sense of self and system of values. In particular, I enjoy finding ways to bring geek and gamer cultural interests into therapy and utilize the things that bring people joy while providing a safe, supportive environment to explore their own life experiences while building on the supports that have helped them navigate their lives. I take a very humanistic approach to counseling that encourages honesty and openness since we're ultimately all just people trying to figure it out day by day.
I have worked extensively with neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, 2E) individuals and take a strength based approach to working with what keeps people going.
I enjoy helping others to build deep, meaningful connections with not only those in their lives but their own central sense of self and system of values. In particular, I enjoy finding ways to bring geek and gamer cultural interests into therapy and utilize the things that bring people joy while providing a safe, supportive environment to explore their own life experiences while building on the supports that have helped them navigate their lives. I take a very humanistic approach to counseling that encourages honesty and openness since we're ultimately all just people trying to figure it out day by day.
(206) 759-7007 View (206) 759-7007
Photo of Monica LaBrie - Piece by Peace Therapy, PLLC, PhD, MSW, BCBA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Piece by Peace Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, BCBA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98195  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health professional with expertise in working with clients with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. I also have experience providing therapy to those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression or challenges facing life stressors.
I am a licensed mental health professional with expertise in working with clients with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. I also have experience providing therapy to those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression or challenges facing life stressors.
(509) 210-3700 View (509) 210-3700
Photo of Jana L McCall, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jana L McCall
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
Your needs and story are unique and your therapy should be too. Let's find the right therapy for you so you can thrive other than just get by. Whether you’re suffering deeply, experiencing relationship conflict, confused about who you are and how to be true to yourself, unable to connect with others, or bored and uninspired, I’d like to know your story and help you write the next chapters so that you can have your best life. I work with with anxiety, depression, trauma, auto-immune disorders, relationship issues, ADHD/ADD, Autism, OCD, PDA, and all neurodivergent types, and more, and can help you make the changes you hope for.
Your needs and story are unique and your therapy should be too. Let's find the right therapy for you so you can thrive other than just get by. Whether you’re suffering deeply, experiencing relationship conflict, confused about who you are and how to be true to yourself, unable to connect with others, or bored and uninspired, I’d like to know your story and help you write the next chapters so that you can have your best life. I work with with anxiety, depression, trauma, auto-immune disorders, relationship issues, ADHD/ADD, Autism, OCD, PDA, and all neurodivergent types, and more, and can help you make the changes you hope for.
(206) 567-7336 View (206) 567-7336
Photo of Anthony Pennant Jr, LMFT, PhD, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthony Pennant Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Anxiety, Depression, and other issues seem like they can never get any better. You might also feel like things will never change in life or that perhaps you are going backwards. When you first call, you will experience compassion and empathy from me that will assist you in making the decision to find resolution to these problems. In therapy, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to hear your story and work to give hope to hopeless situations. Call to schedule a session and begin therapy. In addition to therapy, I am able to conduct assessments and evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD for both children and adults.
Anxiety, Depression, and other issues seem like they can never get any better. You might also feel like things will never change in life or that perhaps you are going backwards. When you first call, you will experience compassion and empathy from me that will assist you in making the decision to find resolution to these problems. In therapy, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to hear your story and work to give hope to hopeless situations. Call to schedule a session and begin therapy. In addition to therapy, I am able to conduct assessments and evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD for both children and adults.
(206) 202-4866 View (206) 202-4866
Photo of Salloni Nanda, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Salloni Nanda
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
I have training in a variety of interventions for anxiety (including Exposure and Response Prevention, SPACE, CBT, Coping Cat), for autism (including ABA, RUBI), and childhood challenging behaviors (including Incredible Years).
I am a licensed psychologist with over 8 years in practice. I work with children, teens, adults, and families on their journey towards hope, healing, and health. I provide evidence-based, culturally sensitive course of treatment and collaborate with providers across settings to develop a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety related disorders (including OCD, generalized anxiety, phobias), autism, school refusal, and children with behavioral difficulties and their families. Some areas of growth my clients focus on are emotions, education, adaptive skills, and relationships.
I have training in a variety of interventions for anxiety (including Exposure and Response Prevention, SPACE, CBT, Coping Cat), for autism (including ABA, RUBI), and childhood challenging behaviors (including Incredible Years).
I am a licensed psychologist with over 8 years in practice. I work with children, teens, adults, and families on their journey towards hope, healing, and health. I provide evidence-based, culturally sensitive course of treatment and collaborate with providers across settings to develop a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety related disorders (including OCD, generalized anxiety, phobias), autism, school refusal, and children with behavioral difficulties and their families. Some areas of growth my clients focus on are emotions, education, adaptive skills, and relationships.
(425) 620-3554 View (425) 620-3554
Photo of Steve Tutty, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Steve Tutty
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Dr. Tutty, MA, PhD, provides psychological and neuropsychological testing for autism, ADHD, complex mood conditions, gifted intelligence, and learning disabilities, which are often helpful for informing IEP and 504 plans. In addition, Dr. Tutty provides evaluations for individuals at crossroads with the court system in the area of family law (e.g., parental fitness), and tort law (e.g., personal injury). Finally, Dr. Tutty provides reunification counseling for parties experiencing ruptures in their parent-child bond, often following separation and divorce.
Dr. Tutty, MA, PhD, provides psychological and neuropsychological testing for autism, ADHD, complex mood conditions, gifted intelligence, and learning disabilities, which are often helpful for informing IEP and 504 plans. In addition, Dr. Tutty provides evaluations for individuals at crossroads with the court system in the area of family law (e.g., parental fitness), and tort law (e.g., personal injury). Finally, Dr. Tutty provides reunification counseling for parties experiencing ruptures in their parent-child bond, often following separation and divorce.
(206) 565-1684 View (206) 565-1684
Photo of Lark Huang-Storms, PhD, Psychologist
Lark Huang-Storms
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in diagnostic assessment of autism across the lifespan (including presentation in adult women). I provide evaluations for clients who wonder about possible autism for themselves or their children. I also have a small therapy practice where I focus on mental health and wellness with clients who are autistic or whose lives are shaped by autism (including Asperger’s Syndrome). Over the past decades, I directed Autism Centers at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Oregon Health & Science University where I engaged in research, training and clinical care.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in diagnostic assessment of autism across the lifespan (including presentation in adult women). I provide evaluations for clients who wonder about possible autism for themselves or their children. I also have a small therapy practice where I focus on mental health and wellness with clients who are autistic or whose lives are shaped by autism (including Asperger’s Syndrome). Over the past decades, I directed Autism Centers at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Oregon Health & Science University where I engaged in research, training and clinical care.
(206) 279-6922 View (206) 279-6922
Photo of Sarah Swenson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Swenson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Often in my practice, autism and high intelligence come together.
Have you struggled to help your counselor understand the true nature of your relationship because you believe one of you may be autistic? Most well-intended couple counseling techniques are ineffective with couples like you because they are insight-based and emotion-focused, both of which are challenges for someone who is autistic. I can offer insight into what it means to be autistic and what it means to be neurotypical, so that you can see where growth and change might be possible. Together, we can identify communication strategies that will be more effective and goals that make sense to both of you. You are not alone.
Often in my practice, autism and high intelligence come together.
Have you struggled to help your counselor understand the true nature of your relationship because you believe one of you may be autistic? Most well-intended couple counseling techniques are ineffective with couples like you because they are insight-based and emotion-focused, both of which are challenges for someone who is autistic. I can offer insight into what it means to be autistic and what it means to be neurotypical, so that you can see where growth and change might be possible. Together, we can identify communication strategies that will be more effective and goals that make sense to both of you. You are not alone.
View
Photo of Dr. Steve Tutty - N. W. Family Psychology, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Steve Tutty - N. W. Family Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Dr. Tutty provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to children and adolescents who may be struggling with ADHD (executive functioning), Autism, Learning Disabilities, Twice Exceptional, Anxiety, Depression, as well as counseling for children affected by high conflict divorce. Dr. Tutty also provides counseling to children and adolescents for these issues (most insurance plans accepted). In addition, Dr. Tutty provides forensic psychological services to adults in need of mental health and parenting evaluations, as well as personal injury evaluations (e.g., TBI), which are not covered by insurance.
Dr. Tutty provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to children and adolescents who may be struggling with ADHD (executive functioning), Autism, Learning Disabilities, Twice Exceptional, Anxiety, Depression, as well as counseling for children affected by high conflict divorce. Dr. Tutty also provides counseling to children and adolescents for these issues (most insurance plans accepted). In addition, Dr. Tutty provides forensic psychological services to adults in need of mental health and parenting evaluations, as well as personal injury evaluations (e.g., TBI), which are not covered by insurance.
(360) 208-2713 View (360) 208-2713
Photo of Dr. Anthony Osuna, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Anthony Osuna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Hello! I'm Dr. Anthony Osuna, a licensed clinical psychologist in Seattle, WA, with a specialization in evaluating adults for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I'm dedicated to helping my clients uncover and understand their distinct challenges, while equipping them with effective strategies to enhance their well-being.
Hello! I'm Dr. Anthony Osuna, a licensed clinical psychologist in Seattle, WA, with a specialization in evaluating adults for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I'm dedicated to helping my clients uncover and understand their distinct challenges, while equipping them with effective strategies to enhance their well-being.
(206) 895-3305 View (206) 895-3305
Photo of Suzanne Murray, MA, BCBA, LBA
Suzanne Murray
MA, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I specialize in working with children diagnosed with autism, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and those needing support with emotion regulation. I provide 1:1 child behavioral therapy in the office, home, or school setting as well as parent coaching. Issues addressed may include: behavioral challenges, social skills, attention/focus, toilet training, bedtime routines, selective eating, and tantrum-type behavior. I also have extensive training in the application of behavior analysis to education including addressing special academic needs.
I specialize in working with children diagnosed with autism, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and those needing support with emotion regulation. I provide 1:1 child behavioral therapy in the office, home, or school setting as well as parent coaching. Issues addressed may include: behavioral challenges, social skills, attention/focus, toilet training, bedtime routines, selective eating, and tantrum-type behavior. I also have extensive training in the application of behavior analysis to education including addressing special academic needs.
(206) 825-6693 View (206) 825-6693
Photo of Vanessa M Miller, MA, MHP, LMHCA, Counselor
Vanessa M Miller
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I hold two master's degrees, one in Counseling Psychology (2008) and the other in Special Education in which I focused on Autism Spectrum neruodiversity (2020).
My name is Vanessa and I'm so honored that you are considering me for your counseling journey. Therapy is highly effective with a compassionate therapist to walk by your side and encourage you on your path to improving your life. I offer unconditional positive regard, a non-judgmental approach, and will remind you the whole way of all the love you deserve. I've helped many different types of clients improve their relationships, create peaceful environments, replace negative thoughts with positive ones, overcome trauma, communicate better, and more. My primary specialties include Autism, ADHD, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I hold two master's degrees, one in Counseling Psychology (2008) and the other in Special Education in which I focused on Autism Spectrum neruodiversity (2020).
My name is Vanessa and I'm so honored that you are considering me for your counseling journey. Therapy is highly effective with a compassionate therapist to walk by your side and encourage you on your path to improving your life. I offer unconditional positive regard, a non-judgmental approach, and will remind you the whole way of all the love you deserve. I've helped many different types of clients improve their relationships, create peaceful environments, replace negative thoughts with positive ones, overcome trauma, communicate better, and more. My primary specialties include Autism, ADHD, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(206) 202-1870 View (206) 202-1870
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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.