Autism Therapists in Alhambra, CA

Photo of Katie Poland, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Poland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alhambra, CA 91801
Are you overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel pulled in every direction and unable to find rest? Do you find yourself eventually shutting down from all the stress? There may be some deeper patterns at work, keeping you from thriving. Therapy is the perfect place to explore these patterns, and how your own family of origin may have affected your identity and relational style. I would be honored to share this exploration with you, and help you discover tools to rest, be at peace, and stay present in relationships. Let's create the space for you to find deeper meaning in your life, love, and work. Please call and leave me a message!
Are you overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel pulled in every direction and unable to find rest? Do you find yourself eventually shutting down from all the stress? There may be some deeper patterns at work, keeping you from thriving. Therapy is the perfect place to explore these patterns, and how your own family of origin may have affected your identity and relational style. I would be honored to share this exploration with you, and help you discover tools to rest, be at peace, and stay present in relationships. Let's create the space for you to find deeper meaning in your life, love, and work. Please call and leave me a message!
(626) 427-6813 View (626) 427-6813
Photo of Chrystal Chan, LMFT , PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chrystal Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , PPS
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801  (Online Only)
Have you or your child been demonstrating a change in mood and/or behavior recently? Has your/his/her work/academic performance been negatively impacted? Are you ready to meet with someone to try and figure out how to ameliorate those symptoms together?
Have you or your child been demonstrating a change in mood and/or behavior recently? Has your/his/her work/academic performance been negatively impacted? Are you ready to meet with someone to try and figure out how to ameliorate those symptoms together?
(626) 551-4233 View (626) 551-4233
Photo of Andy Truong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Truong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91803
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or feeling stuck, I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through life struggles at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, so I honor you for your bravery and effort to reach out. You have the inherit strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace, positivity, and self-awareness.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or feeling stuck, I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through life struggles at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, so I honor you for your bravery and effort to reach out. You have the inherit strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace, positivity, and self-awareness.
(626) 436-3084 View (626) 436-3084
Photo of Gently Ang, PhD, Psychologist
Gently Ang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive background in both psychotherapy and assessment. Many of the clients I have worked with in psychotherapy have backgrounds of abuse and trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship breakdowns, and/or adjustment difficulties to career and life transitions. My psychotherapy approach draws from humanistic relational psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a biopsychosocial view of persons. I work collaboratively with my clients to set the goals and pace of the psychotherapy process.
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive background in both psychotherapy and assessment. Many of the clients I have worked with in psychotherapy have backgrounds of abuse and trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship breakdowns, and/or adjustment difficulties to career and life transitions. My psychotherapy approach draws from humanistic relational psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a biopsychosocial view of persons. I work collaboratively with my clients to set the goals and pace of the psychotherapy process.
(626) 310-4562 View (626) 310-4562
Photo of Michael Gregory Mann, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Gregory Mann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alhambra, CA 91801
I work primarily with men, teens, and their families. Those I work with often feel stuck in some way, whether that is stuck in a job, or in depression, or with anxiety, or negative patterns in relationships. It is a privilege to walk alongside those who come into my office, to learn their stories, their strengths, and their struggles, and to give them a safe place to learn about themselves and move toward growth and thriving.
I work primarily with men, teens, and their families. Those I work with often feel stuck in some way, whether that is stuck in a job, or in depression, or with anxiety, or negative patterns in relationships. It is a privilege to walk alongside those who come into my office, to learn their stories, their strengths, and their struggles, and to give them a safe place to learn about themselves and move toward growth and thriving.
(626) 768-1256 View (626) 768-1256
Photo of Quiana M. Daniel, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Quiana M. Daniel
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801
Dr. Quiana M. Daniel is a Psychological Assistant working under the supervision of Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Andrea Forbes, PSY23101. In regards to her clinical practice, Dr. Daniel has had extensive training in parent-child interactions, trauma focused therapy, parenting skills, and interpersonal relationships. In addition, she has a history of working with families who are engaged with the foster care system, adopting, or considering adoption. Dr. Daniel aspires to work with individuals, couples, and families within a safe environment to help them navigate their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth.
Dr. Quiana M. Daniel is a Psychological Assistant working under the supervision of Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Andrea Forbes, PSY23101. In regards to her clinical practice, Dr. Daniel has had extensive training in parent-child interactions, trauma focused therapy, parenting skills, and interpersonal relationships. In addition, she has a history of working with families who are engaged with the foster care system, adopting, or considering adoption. Dr. Daniel aspires to work with individuals, couples, and families within a safe environment to help them navigate their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth.
(626) 653-4345 View (626) 653-4345
Photo of Charles Zeng, LMFT, LPCC, CGP, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charles Zeng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, CGP, MA
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Alhambra, CA 91801
Transitions are hard. There is often so much shame around trying to figure out who we are and asking for what we want. Am I going to burden others? Am I too much for people if I ask for something that I desire? Am I being "selfish"? Who am I to "demand" others for things I don't think I "deserve"? If these are some of the questions you have asked yourself, then I'm here to help. It's okay to feel lost, like you're wandering the woods alone. I'm here for you so we can wander these woods together.
Transitions are hard. There is often so much shame around trying to figure out who we are and asking for what we want. Am I going to burden others? Am I too much for people if I ask for something that I desire? Am I being "selfish"? Who am I to "demand" others for things I don't think I "deserve"? If these are some of the questions you have asked yourself, then I'm here to help. It's okay to feel lost, like you're wandering the woods alone. I'm here for you so we can wander these woods together.
(626) 714-2525 View (626) 714-2525

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Caballero, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Caballero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
(971) 233-2471 View (971) 233-2471
Photo of Ashley Taylor, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Taylor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Dr. Taylor and her team at Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology integrate creativity, fun, and compassion into their work. We specialize in providing comprehensive, thoughtful, and trauma-informed services for children, teens, and adults including maternal/paternal mental health and support for pregnant and parenting families. We are able to provide thorough psychological, psycho-educational and trauma-informed evaluations to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, attachment, autism, selective mutism, and more. We work collaboratively with parents, children, and teachers as needed.
Dr. Taylor and her team at Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology integrate creativity, fun, and compassion into their work. We specialize in providing comprehensive, thoughtful, and trauma-informed services for children, teens, and adults including maternal/paternal mental health and support for pregnant and parenting families. We are able to provide thorough psychological, psycho-educational and trauma-informed evaluations to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, attachment, autism, selective mutism, and more. We work collaboratively with parents, children, and teachers as needed.
(360) 564-5082 View (360) 564-5082
Photo of Andrea Price, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Andrea Price
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I work with kids and teens with issues related to: ADHD, autism, OCD, phobias, depression, anxiety, giftedness, 2e, social skills, chronic illness, divorce, school refusal and encopresis.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have many years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents and families when working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework.
I work with kids and teens with issues related to: ADHD, autism, OCD, phobias, depression, anxiety, giftedness, 2e, social skills, chronic illness, divorce, school refusal and encopresis.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have many years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents and families when working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework.
(323) 894-0263 View (323) 894-0263
Photo of Olga Aguilar - Arroyo Seco Family Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Olga Aguilar - Arroyo Seco Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I have a great deal of experience working with the neurodivergent population that have issues with, but not limited to Autism, ADHD, and Auditory Processing Disorder.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward creating change. My motto is "Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light." This can only be accomplished by shedding burdens that weigh you down. I aim to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for personal exploration and healing. I enjoy working with clients who may be apprehensive of mental health services or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
I have a great deal of experience working with the neurodivergent population that have issues with, but not limited to Autism, ADHD, and Auditory Processing Disorder.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward creating change. My motto is "Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light." This can only be accomplished by shedding burdens that weigh you down. I aim to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for personal exploration and healing. I enjoy working with clients who may be apprehensive of mental health services or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
(626) 421-7750 View (626) 421-7750
Photo of Erica Salzman, MS, LEP, NCSP
Erica Salzman
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, LEP, NCSP
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I provide assessment, consultation, and intervention planning for Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, ADHD and executive functioning deficits, gifted and twice-exceptional clients, and emotional and behavioral disorders (i.
I’m Erica Salzman, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4465) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Through my private practice, The Exceptional Learner, I support diverse learners by identifying strengths and helping to overcome challenges. Through detailed assessments, I uncover individual learning nuances to tailor interventions and accommodations, which helps to amplify each person’s potential. I am passionate about helping individuals succeed in their educational environment.
I provide assessment, consultation, and intervention planning for Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, ADHD and executive functioning deficits, gifted and twice-exceptional clients, and emotional and behavioral disorders (i.
I’m Erica Salzman, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4465) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Through my private practice, The Exceptional Learner, I support diverse learners by identifying strengths and helping to overcome challenges. Through detailed assessments, I uncover individual learning nuances to tailor interventions and accommodations, which helps to amplify each person’s potential. I am passionate about helping individuals succeed in their educational environment.
(626) 876-3766 View (626) 876-3766
Photo of Monica Babaian, PsyD, Psychologist
Monica Babaian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
As a licensed clinical psychologist and pediatric neuropsychologist, I specialize in conducting comprehensive evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. My expertise includes working with neurodivergent individuals, covering a range of needs such as ADHD, Autism, Giftedness, and more. My services encompass thorough neuropsychological assessments, educational and academic evaluations (addressing Reading, Writing, Math Learning Disorders, and testing accommodations for BAR, SAT, MCAT), and identification of emotional-behavioral challenges such as Anxiety and Depression.
As a licensed clinical psychologist and pediatric neuropsychologist, I specialize in conducting comprehensive evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. My expertise includes working with neurodivergent individuals, covering a range of needs such as ADHD, Autism, Giftedness, and more. My services encompass thorough neuropsychological assessments, educational and academic evaluations (addressing Reading, Writing, Math Learning Disorders, and testing accommodations for BAR, SAT, MCAT), and identification of emotional-behavioral challenges such as Anxiety and Depression.
(323) 515-1539 View (323) 515-1539
Photo of Richard LaBrie, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard LaBrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
(626) 765-3076 View (626) 765-3076
Photo of Adelina Matevosyan, PhD, Psychologist
Adelina Matevosyan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
(818) 287-0300 View (818) 287-0300
Photo of Allegra Jaros, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allegra Jaros
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Gabriel, CA 91776
I see the adversities of individuals through a systems lens and strive to empower children, teens, and adults to have healthy relationships with themselves, family, and others in order to live their best lives. I earned a BA in psychology with an emphasis on child development and Autism treatment from UCSD, and later an MA in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University, San Diego.
I see the adversities of individuals through a systems lens and strive to empower children, teens, and adults to have healthy relationships with themselves, family, and others in order to live their best lives. I earned a BA in psychology with an emphasis on child development and Autism treatment from UCSD, and later an MA in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University, San Diego.
(805) 576-7793 View (805) 576-7793
Photo of Allen Sung - Huntington Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Huntington Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I have 10+ years of experience evaluating mental health and academic issues, such as ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and more.
My name is Dr. Allen Sung, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and the Clinical Director of Huntington Psychological Services in Pasadena, CA. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing and assessments for children and adults experiencing educational, social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. I hold a Bachelor's degree from UCLA and a Master's and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. I strive to conduct evaluations with the same care, compassion, and professionalism that I would expect for myself or my loved ones.
I have 10+ years of experience evaluating mental health and academic issues, such as ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and more.
My name is Dr. Allen Sung, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and the Clinical Director of Huntington Psychological Services in Pasadena, CA. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing and assessments for children and adults experiencing educational, social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. I hold a Bachelor's degree from UCLA and a Master's and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. I strive to conduct evaluations with the same care, compassion, and professionalism that I would expect for myself or my loved ones.
(626) 209-9322 View (626) 209-9322
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Kelly Kratzer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Kratzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Gabriel, CA 91776
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in working with: children, teens, and families to address a variety of mental health challenges. My areas of expertise include helping clients overcome: Autism and Neurodivergent Children and Teens, Learning Disabilities, School Challenges, Social and Emotional Development, Parents of Children/Teens with Autism, Behavioral Support and Planning, Siblings of family members with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Peer Relationships.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in working with: children, teens, and families to address a variety of mental health challenges. My areas of expertise include helping clients overcome: Autism and Neurodivergent Children and Teens, Learning Disabilities, School Challenges, Social and Emotional Development, Parents of Children/Teens with Autism, Behavioral Support and Planning, Siblings of family members with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Peer Relationships.
(510) 241-4637 View (510) 241-4637
Photo of Andrea Davis, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Davis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
We provide Testing, Developmental evaluations, EMDR, Thought Field Therapy, Self-reparenting, Videotaping your interactions for coaching, Play Therapy, Parent-Child Therapy, DIR Floortime play-based relationship-based intervention for children with autism or other developmental challenges.
Hello from the Founder and Owner of Greenhouse Therapy Center...for growing people! If you are experiencing stress, unhappiness, or relational problems, growth-oriented therapy helps you become a fully evolved person, partner, or parent. Using attachment theory and developmental psychology, we can help adults, couples, teens, and children grow together so that you may feel better moment to moment, experience much deeper levels of intimacy and joy, and define and take proactive steps forward to reach your life goals and dreams. We plant seeds; you harvest the fruit by growing fruitful endeavors and relationships around you.
We provide Testing, Developmental evaluations, EMDR, Thought Field Therapy, Self-reparenting, Videotaping your interactions for coaching, Play Therapy, Parent-Child Therapy, DIR Floortime play-based relationship-based intervention for children with autism or other developmental challenges.
Hello from the Founder and Owner of Greenhouse Therapy Center...for growing people! If you are experiencing stress, unhappiness, or relational problems, growth-oriented therapy helps you become a fully evolved person, partner, or parent. Using attachment theory and developmental psychology, we can help adults, couples, teens, and children grow together so that you may feel better moment to moment, experience much deeper levels of intimacy and joy, and define and take proactive steps forward to reach your life goals and dreams. We plant seeds; you harvest the fruit by growing fruitful endeavors and relationships around you.
(626) 681-3983 View (626) 681-3983

See more therapy options for Alhambra

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.