Autism Therapists in Altadena, CA
![Photo of Ben Russell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4e28b4-ee9d-4615-82e3-f5d188c83c56/2/320x400.png)
As a psychotherapist and consultant for autistic adults and their service teams, I support individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and service providers. My practice focuses on fostering independence, enhancing communication, nurturing relationships, and promoting self-determination. I believe in everyone's inherent worth and potential, emphasizing empowerment, self-advocacy, and practical skills to improve quality of life. Whether you are an autistic adult, a family member seeking guidance, or a service provider aiming to better support your clients, I'm here to help.
As a psychotherapist and consultant for autistic adults and their service teams, I support individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and service providers. My practice focuses on fostering independence, enhancing communication, nurturing relationships, and promoting self-determination. I believe in everyone's inherent worth and potential, emphasizing empowerment, self-advocacy, and practical skills to improve quality of life. Whether you are an autistic adult, a family member seeking guidance, or a service provider aiming to better support your clients, I'm here to help.
These disorders include but are not limited to ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disorders, and intellectual disabilities.
Fuller Psychological Family Services (FPFS) is the community mental health and training clinic of the Fuller Graduate School of Psychology& Marriage). FPFS provides therapy to individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families to address a variety of problems occurring in settings such as your work and your relationships. Because FPFS utilizes both pre-licensed students and licensed clinicians, we are able to provide therapy at range of affordable rates - and in multiple languages. Because our clinic is part of a fully accredited graduate school, you will receive care at the highest ethical and professional standards.
These disorders include but are not limited to ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disorders, and intellectual disabilities.
Fuller Psychological Family Services (FPFS) is the community mental health and training clinic of the Fuller Graduate School of Psychology& Marriage). FPFS provides therapy to individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families to address a variety of problems occurring in settings such as your work and your relationships. Because FPFS utilizes both pre-licensed students and licensed clinicians, we are able to provide therapy at range of affordable rates - and in multiple languages. Because our clinic is part of a fully accredited graduate school, you will receive care at the highest ethical and professional standards.
![Photo of Allen Sung - Huntington Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fbb191d-f13f-47cc-9439-9f1245b30c97/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Alan Richardson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e19a76f7-5d43-4307-8ce1-149198a44e7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alan Richardson-LCSW I am primarily interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals who are struggling with issues of anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with older adults and issues of aging. I also have experience with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and challenges faced by families of persons on the Autism Spectrum. I am primarily interested in working with adults. I am interested in assisting clients to address issues of anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
Alan Richardson-LCSW I am primarily interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals who are struggling with issues of anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with older adults and issues of aging. I also have experience with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and challenges faced by families of persons on the Autism Spectrum. I am primarily interested in working with adults. I am interested in assisting clients to address issues of anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
![Photo of Ashley Shoshana Mink, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b696b92-0357-475f-b417-b824101517d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Shoshana Mink
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
I believe that the body is an important part of talk therapy. I use a variety of Somatic and Mindfulness practices to help my clients slow down and tune into themselves.
I believe that the body is an important part of talk therapy. I use a variety of Somatic and Mindfulness practices to help my clients slow down and tune into themselves.
![Photo of Dr. Cloda A. Jones, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC, PPS, BICM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd8324b7-763b-4451-b504-1874efbd5fef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cloda A. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC, PPS, BICM
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Are you feeling stressed and unbalanced? More than ever, these times are uncertain. It is difficult to not feel anxious or concerned about the pandemic and current fires. In addition, there is work life, home life, and a myriad of other concerns. I specialize in couples/relationship therapy, helping define career goals, individual therapy, and bereavement counseling. I have over thirty years of solid counseling experience overall. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, am a Credentialed School Psychologist, and have licenses as a Clinical School Worker and Clinical Professional Counselor. I am here to assist on your journey.
Are you feeling stressed and unbalanced? More than ever, these times are uncertain. It is difficult to not feel anxious or concerned about the pandemic and current fires. In addition, there is work life, home life, and a myriad of other concerns. I specialize in couples/relationship therapy, helping define career goals, individual therapy, and bereavement counseling. I have over thirty years of solid counseling experience overall. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, am a Credentialed School Psychologist, and have licenses as a Clinical School Worker and Clinical Professional Counselor. I am here to assist on your journey.
![Photo of Betsy R Ginsburg, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55f26215-228e-46d8-9048-88ea5276a6a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Betsy R Ginsburg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001 (Online Only)
At our cores, we are relational beings who thrive when we feel connected to ourselves, to each other, and to the world around us. When we endure painful experiences or simply learn to abandon our wants and needs in exchange for belonging and acceptance as children, we can become out of touch with our true nature, but therapy is often a journey of leading us back, and then forward. I often work with artists, therapists, and people who generally think and feel deeply. If you are feeling stuck and could use support, we can begin to explore the experiences that have led you to this moment so that healing and progress can take place.
At our cores, we are relational beings who thrive when we feel connected to ourselves, to each other, and to the world around us. When we endure painful experiences or simply learn to abandon our wants and needs in exchange for belonging and acceptance as children, we can become out of touch with our true nature, but therapy is often a journey of leading us back, and then forward. I often work with artists, therapists, and people who generally think and feel deeply. If you are feeling stuck and could use support, we can begin to explore the experiences that have led you to this moment so that healing and progress can take place.
![Photo of Vanessa Fierstadt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403388f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Fierstadt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
I am glad you are here to receive the support you need. I provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment to openly share your thoughts and feelings. To support you in making new patterns and positive change. Are you seeking healing after experiencing traumatic life events, stressful relationship patterns or emotional wounds from your past. After experiencing suffering, we can often feel numb and detached. Together we will incorporate healing strategies to support you in finding relief, having an abundant, healthy and safe future as you move forward in your life. Grief Groups at Kintsugi Grief Center : Kintsugigrief.com
I am glad you are here to receive the support you need. I provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment to openly share your thoughts and feelings. To support you in making new patterns and positive change. Are you seeking healing after experiencing traumatic life events, stressful relationship patterns or emotional wounds from your past. After experiencing suffering, we can often feel numb and detached. Together we will incorporate healing strategies to support you in finding relief, having an abundant, healthy and safe future as you move forward in your life. Grief Groups at Kintsugi Grief Center : Kintsugigrief.com
![Photo of Danielle Kaiser, LPCC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9375a5da-3fad-4ee1-9082-98562e4f79f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
You're welcome here. I know it can feel strange at first, but connecting with support via therapy might be just the thing to move you along in your growth and healing. It is so normal to come up against physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges in life and to sometimes feel stuck. Through intentional processing, healthy coping skills, and connection it is possible to feel lighter, to feel free, and to find the lotus in the mud. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed and notice this impacting your relationships, work, or ability to feel calm? Are you hoping to be a calm and connected parent to your child?
You're welcome here. I know it can feel strange at first, but connecting with support via therapy might be just the thing to move you along in your growth and healing. It is so normal to come up against physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges in life and to sometimes feel stuck. Through intentional processing, healthy coping skills, and connection it is possible to feel lighter, to feel free, and to find the lotus in the mud. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed and notice this impacting your relationships, work, or ability to feel calm? Are you hoping to be a calm and connected parent to your child?
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Jade Starleaf, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0aae09f4-fea8-4de7-8cb5-4c4dad59fca2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jade Starleaf is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Her clinical expertise lies in working with neurodiversity. More specifically individuals with Autism, OCD, ADHD, and other anxiety related disorders. Dr. Jade (as her patients call her) is also skilled at providing comprehensive diagnostic assessments for Autism in children, adolescents, and young adults. Additionally, she runs a teen (ages 15-18) and young adult group (19-22) for those who are looking to connect more deeply with peers and process stress around school, work, and social relationships.
Dr. Jade Starleaf is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Her clinical expertise lies in working with neurodiversity. More specifically individuals with Autism, OCD, ADHD, and other anxiety related disorders. Dr. Jade (as her patients call her) is also skilled at providing comprehensive diagnostic assessments for Autism in children, adolescents, and young adults. Additionally, she runs a teen (ages 15-18) and young adult group (19-22) for those who are looking to connect more deeply with peers and process stress around school, work, and social relationships.
![Photo of Ashley Taylor, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb85871-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Carrie N Dilley, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90aa81b9-6c4c-403d-b1b7-5af96274563c/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
![Photo of Andrea Price, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2a6d25b-ae94-4298-a829-1db33f8d3f1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Price
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91104
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.
![Photo of Jesse Bernal, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e150f034-4828-43b6-839d-acf3138b1e78/9/320x400.jpeg)
ASD and Neurodivergence: I have been working with young adults on the autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals for 20 yrs of my time in the helping profession.
Trauma Work: It can be incredibly frustrating and shame inducing when you find yourself repeating the same negative relationship patterns, behavioral and emotional responses, and maladaptive thought processes. My approach to trauma work is both holistic and central nervous system oriented; focusing on the brain, body, and behavior to see how your body’s trauma stress response is keeping you stuck in old narratives and patterns. I am trained in EMDR which is perfect for clients who do not want to rehash the details of trauma or who feel that they have not had success with traditional talk therapy.
ASD and Neurodivergence: I have been working with young adults on the autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals for 20 yrs of my time in the helping profession.
Trauma Work: It can be incredibly frustrating and shame inducing when you find yourself repeating the same negative relationship patterns, behavioral and emotional responses, and maladaptive thought processes. My approach to trauma work is both holistic and central nervous system oriented; focusing on the brain, body, and behavior to see how your body’s trauma stress response is keeping you stuck in old narratives and patterns. I am trained in EMDR which is perfect for clients who do not want to rehash the details of trauma or who feel that they have not had success with traditional talk therapy.
![Photo of Rita Mason - BrightView Behavioral Health Services, MA , BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd94a8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
BrightView is a provider of ABA services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other related developmental delays.
BrightView is a clinician & family owned provider dedicated to the ethical and effective practice of Applied Behavioral Analysis for children, adolescents, and young adults with developmental disabilities. BrightView believes in establishing a personal connection to each family, and is committed to the advancement of each and every client. At BrightView, families will experience the delivery of individualized, high quality care, & a commitment to excellence. We are passionate about the work we do, and do so with expertise, integrity, and consistency.
BrightView is a provider of ABA services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other related developmental delays.
BrightView is a clinician & family owned provider dedicated to the ethical and effective practice of Applied Behavioral Analysis for children, adolescents, and young adults with developmental disabilities. BrightView believes in establishing a personal connection to each family, and is committed to the advancement of each and every client. At BrightView, families will experience the delivery of individualized, high quality care, & a commitment to excellence. We are passionate about the work we do, and do so with expertise, integrity, and consistency.
![Photo of Christine Pourandrias, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb6069d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in child behavior difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Welcome to my practice! I feel privileged to be in a position to guide people through various problems, in search of solutions and geared toward healthy living. I have learned that the most important component to creating a healthy therapeutic process is the meaningful relationships that we create along the way. I currently utilize a strength-based approach in my work with children, adolescence, and families-the focus of the work is identifying and building from the strengths of the individual. I value the collaborative effort that goes into developing a treatment plan; collaboration allows us to experience movement toward pathways of transformation.
I specialize in child behavior difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Welcome to my practice! I feel privileged to be in a position to guide people through various problems, in search of solutions and geared toward healthy living. I have learned that the most important component to creating a healthy therapeutic process is the meaningful relationships that we create along the way. I currently utilize a strength-based approach in my work with children, adolescence, and families-the focus of the work is identifying and building from the strengths of the individual. I value the collaborative effort that goes into developing a treatment plan; collaboration allows us to experience movement toward pathways of transformation.
![Photo of Brianna Michelle Marecki, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f99b2bef-0c04-4321-8529-abd40f13ad87/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Brianna Marecki specializes in evidenced-based psychotherapy and assessment with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She has extensive experience in treating anxiety and mood disorders in children, adolescents, and young adults. She has expertise in treating symptoms and behaviors related to Autism and ADHD. She also provides parent training for behavioral difficulties and strengthening parent-child relationships. Dr. Marecki provides neuropsychological and psychodiagnostic evaluations for children and adolescents.
Dr. Brianna Marecki specializes in evidenced-based psychotherapy and assessment with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She has extensive experience in treating anxiety and mood disorders in children, adolescents, and young adults. She has expertise in treating symptoms and behaviors related to Autism and ADHD. She also provides parent training for behavioral difficulties and strengthening parent-child relationships. Dr. Marecki provides neuropsychological and psychodiagnostic evaluations for children and adolescents.
![Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf825296-d3de-4672-b1e0-dfc8f9049efd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
![Photo of Steven Su, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c0d8b91-7904-412c-b69d-83522fb78168/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
![Photo of Chrystal C Maher - Our Kids Developmental Services, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1542b986-b6cb-4466-bdec-4cc97bb46425/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
See more therapy options for Altadena
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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.