Therapists in Pima County, AZ

Photo of Jack Gift, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Gift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, a personality disorder, another mental health challenge, chronic pain, trouble with relationships, or difficulties at your place of employment. You may feel stuck in your life or need to clarify personal values and goals. I am skilled and experienced at working with people facing a variety of mental health and related challenges. I specialize in working with people 18 years old and older. My approach to therapy starts with the idea that people are usually the best experts on their own lives.
You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, a personality disorder, another mental health challenge, chronic pain, trouble with relationships, or difficulties at your place of employment. You may feel stuck in your life or need to clarify personal values and goals. I am skilled and experienced at working with people facing a variety of mental health and related challenges. I specialize in working with people 18 years old and older. My approach to therapy starts with the idea that people are usually the best experts on their own lives.
(520) 335-3987 View (520) 335-3987
Photo of Thomas E Cooper, MS, M, Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas E Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, M, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716
InnerSenses (Thomas Cooper) has been providing loving, respectful and compassionate psychotherapy services in the State of Arizona since 1988. Mr. Cooper provides a safe and secure counseling environment that invites individuals to develop their own positive living lifestyle for themselves and those individuals who are associated with them. InnerSenses provides counseling services both in-office as well as teletherapy in Arizona. Mr. Cooper provides individual, couples and family therapies which include such areas as problem gambling, substance disorders, psychiatric disorders (PTSD, depression, anxiety, gender disorders.
InnerSenses (Thomas Cooper) has been providing loving, respectful and compassionate psychotherapy services in the State of Arizona since 1988. Mr. Cooper provides a safe and secure counseling environment that invites individuals to develop their own positive living lifestyle for themselves and those individuals who are associated with them. InnerSenses provides counseling services both in-office as well as teletherapy in Arizona. Mr. Cooper provides individual, couples and family therapies which include such areas as problem gambling, substance disorders, psychiatric disorders (PTSD, depression, anxiety, gender disorders.
(520) 428-1558 View (520) 428-1558
Photo of Tamara Gittelson, MA, LCPC, Analyst, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Tamara Gittelson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, Analyst, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Meander. Clarify. I love what I do and will help you feel better. I can help with multicultural issues, relocation, or if you're struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning and you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, and challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Meander. Clarify. I love what I do and will help you feel better. I can help with multicultural issues, relocation, or if you're struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning and you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, and challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
(312) 410-8248 View (312) 410-8248
Photo of Wendy J Pauluk, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy J Pauluk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, and coping with situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of medical credential in Psychology and Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, and coping with situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of medical credential in Psychology and Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
(928) 267-6122 View (928) 267-6122
Photo of Dwayne Kruse, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dwayne Kruse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and Master Certified Life Coaching available for Individual, Couple, Child, and Family Counseling. I offer real solutions for Communication, Anger, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD. When we stress our reactivity leads to regressive and unhealthy coping behaviors. Unfortunately, the mental health field often uses diagnoses to label behavior when really what is needed is counseling around attachment, communication and various coping skills. You are not your diagnosis, and our therapeutic process includes removing or reducing stress and establishing a healthy, constructive coping strategy.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and Master Certified Life Coaching available for Individual, Couple, Child, and Family Counseling. I offer real solutions for Communication, Anger, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD. When we stress our reactivity leads to regressive and unhealthy coping behaviors. Unfortunately, the mental health field often uses diagnoses to label behavior when really what is needed is counseling around attachment, communication and various coping skills. You are not your diagnosis, and our therapeutic process includes removing or reducing stress and establishing a healthy, constructive coping strategy.
(520) 277-9610 View (520) 277-9610

Online Therapists

Photo of Tony Rusch, PhD, Psychologist
Tony Rusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85286
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
(602) 492-3146 View (602) 492-3146
Photo of Abraham Awais, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abraham Awais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85209
Hi! Each of us walks our own path. I primarily use IFS (Internal Family Systems) and can help you reconnect and build relationships with all parts of yourself. I can offer you a pathway to your inner world and journey alongside you as we rediscover what was lost, returning to parts stranded in dark corners of the past with tenderness and compassion. The majority of my experience includes working with childhood trauma, neglect, depression, anxiety, codependency and grief. As a first-generation Middle Eastern American, I wholeheartedly understand generational trauma, cultural burdens and identity conflicts that keep us feeling lost.
Hi! Each of us walks our own path. I primarily use IFS (Internal Family Systems) and can help you reconnect and build relationships with all parts of yourself. I can offer you a pathway to your inner world and journey alongside you as we rediscover what was lost, returning to parts stranded in dark corners of the past with tenderness and compassion. The majority of my experience includes working with childhood trauma, neglect, depression, anxiety, codependency and grief. As a first-generation Middle Eastern American, I wholeheartedly understand generational trauma, cultural burdens and identity conflicts that keep us feeling lost.
(602) 975-4939 View (602) 975-4939
Photo of Felicia Cota, LAC, Counselor
Felicia Cota
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
If you find yourself struggling, feeling overwhelmed or experiencing painful emotions in your everyday life or perhaps experiencing triggers from past trauma, I work with people like you, who sometimes get stuck in a cycle of self-defeating behavior in your personal life and relationships. Together we can address your needs of improving your quality of life such as helping you manage stress and anxiety. We would start by creating a collaborative relationship. I facilitate this by doing my best to create a comfortable space where you can share not only your issues, but one that helps shape your ideas for growth and change
If you find yourself struggling, feeling overwhelmed or experiencing painful emotions in your everyday life or perhaps experiencing triggers from past trauma, I work with people like you, who sometimes get stuck in a cycle of self-defeating behavior in your personal life and relationships. Together we can address your needs of improving your quality of life such as helping you manage stress and anxiety. We would start by creating a collaborative relationship. I facilitate this by doing my best to create a comfortable space where you can share not only your issues, but one that helps shape your ideas for growth and change
(480) 745-1696 View (480) 745-1696
Photo of Rachel Loftis, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Loftis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Watching your child navigate school, friendships, activities, and family life while also struggling with emotional or behavioral difficulties can be overwhelming. Seeking extra support for your child through psychotherapy is a great way to equip both you and your child with new tools and skills to help them overcome their challenges and thrive. I am a licensed psychologist specializing in working with youth ages 6-17. My expertise is working with youth who struggle with anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, depression, social skills, executive functioning deficits (ADHD), & difficulty adjusting to various life situations.
Watching your child navigate school, friendships, activities, and family life while also struggling with emotional or behavioral difficulties can be overwhelming. Seeking extra support for your child through psychotherapy is a great way to equip both you and your child with new tools and skills to help them overcome their challenges and thrive. I am a licensed psychologist specializing in working with youth ages 6-17. My expertise is working with youth who struggle with anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, depression, social skills, executive functioning deficits (ADHD), & difficulty adjusting to various life situations.
(480) 462-0444 View (480) 462-0444
Photo of Chantelle Ezinne Oguadimma, LPC, MSPC, CCTS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chantelle Ezinne Oguadimma
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSPC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143  (Online Only)
Chantelle received her Masters in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She has extensive experiences working with children and adolescents dealing with a variety of mental health needs including various traumas, substance abuse, needs relating to the spectrum, and foster care. Chantelle also owns a behavioral health residential facility where she provides therapeutic services to adult clients suffering with addiction, trauma, and serious mental illness. Overall Chantelle has had a total of 9 years of experience as a mental health professional. She is passionate about supporting her clients as well as her community.
Chantelle received her Masters in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She has extensive experiences working with children and adolescents dealing with a variety of mental health needs including various traumas, substance abuse, needs relating to the spectrum, and foster care. Chantelle also owns a behavioral health residential facility where she provides therapeutic services to adult clients suffering with addiction, trauma, and serious mental illness. Overall Chantelle has had a total of 9 years of experience as a mental health professional. She is passionate about supporting her clients as well as her community.
(480) 530-6669 View (480) 530-6669
Photo of Andrea Khalife, MS, LPC, Counselor
Andrea Khalife
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Congratulations on taking such a big step towards your well-being, You deserve it! It would be a privilege to join you on your healing journey to addresses your unique needs & goals. I strive to provide a safe, accepting, warm, & empathic space. Together we can start to explore what may be going on in your life such as anxiety, addiction, depression, stress, grief, trauma, abuse, relationships, codependency, self-esteem, life transitions & more. I have experience working with diverse populations of all ages from various cultural and religious backgrounds.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Congratulations on taking such a big step towards your well-being, You deserve it! It would be a privilege to join you on your healing journey to addresses your unique needs & goals. I strive to provide a safe, accepting, warm, & empathic space. Together we can start to explore what may be going on in your life such as anxiety, addiction, depression, stress, grief, trauma, abuse, relationships, codependency, self-esteem, life transitions & more. I have experience working with diverse populations of all ages from various cultural and religious backgrounds.
(480) 712-7188 View (480) 712-7188
Photo of Caroline Olotu - ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic
DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
(602) 693-1243 View (602) 693-1243
Photo of Nicole O'Hare, MS, LPC, CMHIMP, CCATP, CTMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole O'Hare
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CMHIMP, CCATP, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85225
Accepting New Clients - I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, passionate about helping my clients achieve fulfillment in their daily lives. I am a Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapist, which enables me to provide tools for helping couples communicate effectively and transform their relationship. I also maintain an advanced certification as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. This certification allows me to utilize a more holistic approach to treating from an integrative perspective. I am able to help clients achieve optimal mental and physical health and wellness while using a mind-body approach to healing.
Accepting New Clients - I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, passionate about helping my clients achieve fulfillment in their daily lives. I am a Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapist, which enables me to provide tools for helping couples communicate effectively and transform their relationship. I also maintain an advanced certification as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. This certification allows me to utilize a more holistic approach to treating from an integrative perspective. I am able to help clients achieve optimal mental and physical health and wellness while using a mind-body approach to healing.
(602) 786-6983 View (602) 786-6983
Photo of Rebecca Lahann - Spectrum Psychology and Wellness, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Spectrum Psychology and Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Spectrum Psychology and Wellness was formed in order to meet the holistic needs of our community. Our approach is strength-based and person centered. Our practitioners specialize in issues across all ages and stages of life. Our intention is to meet the needs of the ever-evolving integrated healthcare landscape. Our aim is to treat the whole patient in one, central place, by adopting a multi-dimensional approach that explores the relationship between mental health and physical conditions. SPW will work with your healthcare team to provide coordinated patient care that meets your unique needs and those of your family.
Spectrum Psychology and Wellness was formed in order to meet the holistic needs of our community. Our approach is strength-based and person centered. Our practitioners specialize in issues across all ages and stages of life. Our intention is to meet the needs of the ever-evolving integrated healthcare landscape. Our aim is to treat the whole patient in one, central place, by adopting a multi-dimensional approach that explores the relationship between mental health and physical conditions. SPW will work with your healthcare team to provide coordinated patient care that meets your unique needs and those of your family.
(480) 405-0649 View (480) 405-0649
Photo of Laura Rice, LPC-S, Counselor
Laura Rice
Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85212
Are you looking for a way to improve your overall well-being? I provide a safe and neutral counseling space for individuals, couples and families to work towards an overall improvement within their relationships, everyday life and mindset. One's choice to begin counseling is a positive decision towards self-care, improved relationships and a proactive way to handle life's hardships. Counseling provides an opportunity to learn ways to gain control over one's life. I believe that the power of empathy within counseling can be life changing.
Are you looking for a way to improve your overall well-being? I provide a safe and neutral counseling space for individuals, couples and families to work towards an overall improvement within their relationships, everyday life and mindset. One's choice to begin counseling is a positive decision towards self-care, improved relationships and a proactive way to handle life's hardships. Counseling provides an opportunity to learn ways to gain control over one's life. I believe that the power of empathy within counseling can be life changing.
(480) 405-5659 View (480) 405-5659
Photo of Kimberly Anne Miller, LISAC, LCSW, SEP , EMDR, FSAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Anne Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISAC, LCSW, SEP , EMDR, FSAP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Trouble emotional/behavioral flexibility-Anxiety, Codependency,PTSD, Dissassociation? Struggling with anxiety-feeling numb or down in life? I have worked with the most World Class industry leaders and trained in most cutting edge therapies. We offer a down to Earth- "Whole Person Approach"-individualized planning with cutting edge tools-SEP,EMDR, Brainspotting, FSAP, CBT, DBT, PIT, CSAT-C, Licensed Substance Use, Certified Life Coach/Hypnotherapy, Brain Mapping/NeuroBiofeedback, CSAT model, Pia Melody’s PIT, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Meadows Trained & Somatic Experiencing Training Assistant. We are good with simple or complex ca
Trouble emotional/behavioral flexibility-Anxiety, Codependency,PTSD, Dissassociation? Struggling with anxiety-feeling numb or down in life? I have worked with the most World Class industry leaders and trained in most cutting edge therapies. We offer a down to Earth- "Whole Person Approach"-individualized planning with cutting edge tools-SEP,EMDR, Brainspotting, FSAP, CBT, DBT, PIT, CSAT-C, Licensed Substance Use, Certified Life Coach/Hypnotherapy, Brain Mapping/NeuroBiofeedback, CSAT model, Pia Melody’s PIT, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Meadows Trained & Somatic Experiencing Training Assistant. We are good with simple or complex ca
(480) 382-8915 View (480) 382-8915
Photo of Andrew E. Henry - Andrew E. Henry, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew E. Henry, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85209
Unlock Your Mind and Transform Your Life with Expert Counseling in Arizona. Are you feeling trapped by past events that seem impossible to change? I'm here to help you break free and create positive change in your mind and body. As a licensed counselor, I specialize in empowering individuals to confront and overcome their inner obstacles. Here's how I can assist you: Access and safely address lingering events that may be holding you back. Collaborate with you to set personalized goals for your treatment journey.
Unlock Your Mind and Transform Your Life with Expert Counseling in Arizona. Are you feeling trapped by past events that seem impossible to change? I'm here to help you break free and create positive change in your mind and body. As a licensed counselor, I specialize in empowering individuals to confront and overcome their inner obstacles. Here's how I can assist you: Access and safely address lingering events that may be holding you back. Collaborate with you to set personalized goals for your treatment journey.
(480) 351-6038 View (480) 351-6038
Photo of Marie E Avila, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie E Avila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I have worked in the Behavioral Health field for nearly 25 years, mostly in community mental health in Maricopa County. I have a lot of experience with understanding how mental health and trauma are intertwined. I have done a lot of work with families and understand the complexities of the relationship. I specialize in families and marriage therapy, having done this predominantly over the last several years. I am here to support you as you create a life that you are proud of.
I have worked in the Behavioral Health field for nearly 25 years, mostly in community mental health in Maricopa County. I have a lot of experience with understanding how mental health and trauma are intertwined. I have done a lot of work with families and understand the complexities of the relationship. I specialize in families and marriage therapy, having done this predominantly over the last several years. I am here to support you as you create a life that you are proud of.
(928) 370-7184 View (928) 370-7184
Photo of Davona Blackhorse, BS, MA, MS, LAC, Counselor
Davona Blackhorse
Counselor, BS, MA, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85045
Davona Blackhorse is a dedicated mental health professional with a robust background in clinical counseling and public health. Holding a Master of Science in Public Health (2024) and a Master of Arts in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling (2018) from Northern Arizona University, she has carved a path of academic excellence. Her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Sociology-Family Studies (2013) is a testament to her foundational studies. Davona's professional experience is marked by her outstanding roles at Denova Integrated Health Care and H&H Treatment Programs. At Denova, she provided comprehensive diagnostic
Davona Blackhorse is a dedicated mental health professional with a robust background in clinical counseling and public health. Holding a Master of Science in Public Health (2024) and a Master of Arts in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling (2018) from Northern Arizona University, she has carved a path of academic excellence. Her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Sociology-Family Studies (2013) is a testament to her foundational studies. Davona's professional experience is marked by her outstanding roles at Denova Integrated Health Care and H&H Treatment Programs. At Denova, she provided comprehensive diagnostic
(520) 214-3842 View (520) 214-3842
Photo of Dawn Byrd - Integrative Psychotherapy and Assessment Services, PsyD, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Integrative Psychotherapy and Assessment Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
You are strong, you are resilient, and it is okay to need help! Life can often become extremely difficult. We are here to help. We will come alongside you in your journey as a trusted partner, teammate, and therapeutic provider. Someone to always be in your corner. We will help you be accountable for your life and we will be privileged to assist you in your time of need for your mental health related needs including substance abuse.
You are strong, you are resilient, and it is okay to need help! Life can often become extremely difficult. We are here to help. We will come alongside you in your journey as a trusted partner, teammate, and therapeutic provider. Someone to always be in your corner. We will help you be accountable for your life and we will be privileged to assist you in your time of need for your mental health related needs including substance abuse.
(520) 231-8420 View (520) 231-8420

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.