Autism Therapists in Azusa, CA

Photo of Kathleen Mcvey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Mcvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Azusa, CA 91702
Kathleen McVey, PsyD, LMFT. I use an eclectic approach. Focusing on Brief therapy, Solution focused, and CBT. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy in order to best help address each client's individual needs. I mainly work with techniques from solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and brief therapies. My experience has been primarily with clients who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma.
Kathleen McVey, PsyD, LMFT. I use an eclectic approach. Focusing on Brief therapy, Solution focused, and CBT. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy in order to best help address each client's individual needs. I mainly work with techniques from solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and brief therapies. My experience has been primarily with clients who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma.
(626) 669-3991 View (626) 669-3991
Photo of Dr. Marjan Kalhori Khanjan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Marjan Kalhori Khanjan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Azusa, CA 91702  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges; have you lost your way and have no idea how to steer back; do you feel like you've let yourself or others down; are you suffocating from anxiety; has grief left your heart shattered; do you want a more meaningful and fulfilling life for yourself and your loved ones; do you feel like no one understands and you're all alone; are you having difficulty navigating parenthood; do you have a child who challenges you and you feel defeated; do you feel stressed because of your job, school, or marriage; have you given up on yourself; have you lost your all joy?
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges; have you lost your way and have no idea how to steer back; do you feel like you've let yourself or others down; are you suffocating from anxiety; has grief left your heart shattered; do you want a more meaningful and fulfilling life for yourself and your loved ones; do you feel like no one understands and you're all alone; are you having difficulty navigating parenthood; do you have a child who challenges you and you feel defeated; do you feel stressed because of your job, school, or marriage; have you given up on yourself; have you lost your all joy?
(949) 365-4865 View (949) 365-4865
Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Azusa, CA 91702  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(714) 844-5281 View (714) 844-5281
Photo of Louise Van Zee - California Pediatric & Family Services, PhD, MFT, BCET, Marriage & Family Therapist
California Pediatric & Family Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, BCET
Verified Verified
Azusa, CA 91702
Not accepting new clients
Applied Behavior A-analysis (ABA) is about creating and providing a purposeful environment for children with autism to learn.
California Pediatric & Family Services (Cal-Peds) has been developed to help empower, enrich, treat and assist families and individuals to their fullest potential. Cal-peds is working with the special needs children since 1984 and has clinicians with variable cultural backgrounds speaking many pertinent languages such as English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Dutch, etc. Clients referred for our Intensive Behavior Intervention services are those who are displaying maladaptive or inappropriate behaviors, behaviors that interfering with the ability to learn new tasks.The services are provided in the environments in which the behaviors occur.
Applied Behavior A-analysis (ABA) is about creating and providing a purposeful environment for children with autism to learn.
California Pediatric & Family Services (Cal-Peds) has been developed to help empower, enrich, treat and assist families and individuals to their fullest potential. Cal-peds is working with the special needs children since 1984 and has clinicians with variable cultural backgrounds speaking many pertinent languages such as English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Dutch, etc. Clients referred for our Intensive Behavior Intervention services are those who are displaying maladaptive or inappropriate behaviors, behaviors that interfering with the ability to learn new tasks.The services are provided in the environments in which the behaviors occur.
(626) 594-4209 View (626) 594-4209

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamara Obregon Madera, PsyD, Psychologist
Tamara Obregon Madera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessment for concerns related to Autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, concerns related to traumatic brain injury, and other psychiatric and medical illnesses.
I want to empathize with you and provide you with the support you need at this time. My intention is to hold a peaceful space for you where you can explore the difficulties you are encountering. In my psychotherapy practice I frequently work with clients that present with anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, illness, and grief. I will address your needs in a holistic manner which will involve a balance of your mind, spirit, and body. I am well versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, existential therapy, and transpersonal psychotherapy and use these in treatment to promote healing.
I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessment for concerns related to Autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, concerns related to traumatic brain injury, and other psychiatric and medical illnesses.
I want to empathize with you and provide you with the support you need at this time. My intention is to hold a peaceful space for you where you can explore the difficulties you are encountering. In my psychotherapy practice I frequently work with clients that present with anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, illness, and grief. I will address your needs in a holistic manner which will involve a balance of your mind, spirit, and body. I am well versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, existential therapy, and transpersonal psychotherapy and use these in treatment to promote healing.
(626) 727-8221 View (626) 727-8221
Photo of Vanessa C Fontes, PsyD, Psychologist
Vanessa C Fontes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendora, CA 91740
My specialities include ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, and relational issues between parents and their children.
You need a child therapist who does great work with your child, but also who communicates well with you. You've tried the self-help section, but you know you need more now. It's not about who said what, who did this, or didn't do that. It's about you and your child and what you both need right now to feel better. Whether you're dealing with relational issues between you and your child, Anxiety, behavioral issues, or simply symptoms of your child's diagnosis. I am here to help! My name is Vanessa Fontes. I am a clinical psychologist who loves working with families. Children, parents, and teens send them my way!
My specialities include ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, and relational issues between parents and their children.
You need a child therapist who does great work with your child, but also who communicates well with you. You've tried the self-help section, but you know you need more now. It's not about who said what, who did this, or didn't do that. It's about you and your child and what you both need right now to feel better. Whether you're dealing with relational issues between you and your child, Anxiety, behavioral issues, or simply symptoms of your child's diagnosis. I am here to help! My name is Vanessa Fontes. I am a clinical psychologist who loves working with families. Children, parents, and teens send them my way!
(909) 693-3017 View (909) 693-3017
Photo of Rubina Haroutonian, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rubina Haroutonian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Are you feeling confused, scared, anxious, overwhelmed, disappointed about you're going through and what it all means? Are you an expecting parent? Are you a parent to a child or to a teen? Are you stressed or overwhelmed in your marriage or relationship? Are you a parent that's overwhelmed and need help connecting with your child? Are you a parent or a caregiver to someone with special needs or Autism? What does this all mean? What are you supposed to do? Do you feel alone? Do you need support?
Are you feeling confused, scared, anxious, overwhelmed, disappointed about you're going through and what it all means? Are you an expecting parent? Are you a parent to a child or to a teen? Are you stressed or overwhelmed in your marriage or relationship? Are you a parent that's overwhelmed and need help connecting with your child? Are you a parent or a caregiver to someone with special needs or Autism? What does this all mean? What are you supposed to do? Do you feel alone? Do you need support?
(626) 701-8625 View (626) 701-8625
Photo of Kelsey Compton, EdS, LEP, PPS
Kelsey Compton
EdS, LEP, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
As an Educational Psychologist, I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, such as those with Autism or ADHD, and those with other unique learning profiles.
Struggling at school or work, difficulty focusing, and having a hard time make meaningful connections with family and friends can be overwhelming for anyone-adult or child. I approach my work with empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to reach their full potential. I conduct diagnostic and psycho-educational assessments as well as provide parent and educator consultations, and I am dedicated to tailoring my services to meet the unique needs of each individual and family l I work with.
As an Educational Psychologist, I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, such as those with Autism or ADHD, and those with other unique learning profiles.
Struggling at school or work, difficulty focusing, and having a hard time make meaningful connections with family and friends can be overwhelming for anyone-adult or child. I approach my work with empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to reach their full potential. I conduct diagnostic and psycho-educational assessments as well as provide parent and educator consultations, and I am dedicated to tailoring my services to meet the unique needs of each individual and family l I work with.
(909) 530-3170 View (909) 530-3170
Photo of Dr. Carrie N Dilley, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Carrie N Dilley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
I conduct assessments related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Sensory Processing Disorders, and differential diagnoses.
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 specialization is supporting neurodivergent individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, 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.
I conduct assessments related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Sensory Processing Disorders, and differential diagnoses.
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 specialization is supporting neurodivergent individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, 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.
(626) 654-2396 View (626) 654-2396
Photo of Stephen Valenciano- Aspire Counseling Group Inc, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen Valenciano- Aspire Counseling Group Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
I specialize in helping children and youth manage challenges like ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Life changes and unmet needs can significantly impact a young person's well-being. With 7 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, teens, and young adults across California and Hawaii, guiding them through various struggles and helping them find their way. I offer individual and family therapy, dedicated to fostering growth, understanding, and healing.
I specialize in helping children and youth manage challenges like ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Life changes and unmet needs can significantly impact a young person's well-being. With 7 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, teens, and young adults across California and Hawaii, guiding them through various struggles and helping them find their way. I offer individual and family therapy, dedicated to fostering growth, understanding, and healing.
(626) 654-4056 View (626) 654-4056
Photo of Alexander Goitein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Goitein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Diamond Bar, CA 91765  (Online Only)
I have been working with families and individuals over the past ten years to navigate mental and behavioral health challenges. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, suicidality, Autism spectrum, attention difficulties, executive functioning difficulties, gender identity, and much more. I believe that it is important to be eclectic but selective, meaning, having knowledge of many different modalities of therapy, but understanding which one would work best for each situation. The basis of therapy will be a trusting, non-judgmental relationship where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself.
I have been working with families and individuals over the past ten years to navigate mental and behavioral health challenges. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, suicidality, Autism spectrum, attention difficulties, executive functioning difficulties, gender identity, and much more. I believe that it is important to be eclectic but selective, meaning, having knowledge of many different modalities of therapy, but understanding which one would work best for each situation. The basis of therapy will be a trusting, non-judgmental relationship where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself.
(949) 997-2985 View (949) 997-2985
Photo of Ryan Lisman, MA, LPCC, RDT
Ryan Lisman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, RDT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006  (Online Only)
I'm certified in Shame, Grief, Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Autism, Mood Disorder, DBT, Sex Therapy, Mindfulness, Personality Disorder, Anger Management, Telemental, and ADHD treatment.
I'm Ryan Lisman, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily utilize a humanistic therapy approach that is client-centered and caters to your therapeutic needs. I believe that much of our self-concept comes from self-narratives, thus one of my primary clinical goals is to identify unhealthy and unfair narratives and reframe them with uplifting and fair narratives. I'm proud to be a Registered Drama Therapist, which allows for an embodied and creative approach to Therapy by using active and experiential dramatic techniques, it's just as fun as it sounds! I want to commend you for taking the brave steps to pursue Therapy.
I'm certified in Shame, Grief, Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Autism, Mood Disorder, DBT, Sex Therapy, Mindfulness, Personality Disorder, Anger Management, Telemental, and ADHD treatment.
I'm Ryan Lisman, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily utilize a humanistic therapy approach that is client-centered and caters to your therapeutic needs. I believe that much of our self-concept comes from self-narratives, thus one of my primary clinical goals is to identify unhealthy and unfair narratives and reframe them with uplifting and fair narratives. I'm proud to be a Registered Drama Therapist, which allows for an embodied and creative approach to Therapy by using active and experiential dramatic techniques, it's just as fun as it sounds! I want to commend you for taking the brave steps to pursue Therapy.
(626) 605-2435 View (626) 605-2435
Photo of Cecilia Ibarra, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cecilia Ibarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
"We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us." - Joseph Campbell. It's an honor to journey with you towards a better life. As your therapist, I guide you towards clarity and healing; towards your own truth. Reconnect to your authentic self! If you're a parent in need of support, a person on the autism spectrum, struggling with a relationship, an addiction, or perhaps just curious about personal growth, I'm here to support you!
"We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us." - Joseph Campbell. It's an honor to journey with you towards a better life. As your therapist, I guide you towards clarity and healing; towards your own truth. Reconnect to your authentic self! If you're a parent in need of support, a person on the autism spectrum, struggling with a relationship, an addiction, or perhaps just curious about personal growth, I'm here to support you!
(626) 263-4628 View (626) 263-4628
Photo of Joe Vivo, PsyD, Psychologist
Joe Vivo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change within the individual and the family system. With over 23 years of experience in youth mental health and 9 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct challenges, family conflict, and autism.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change within the individual and the family system. With over 23 years of experience in youth mental health and 9 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct challenges, family conflict, and autism.
(626) 283-5591 View (626) 283-5591
Photo of Lauren M Evans, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren M Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Verne, CA 91750  (Online Only)
I’m a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+ and ENM/poly-affirming, trauma-informed therapist who specializes in working with those who are late-diagnosed with ADHD, autism, or AuDHD (or suspect they might be) and are figuring out its impact, those navigating ENM/poly relationships, and those deconstructing from high control religion and the impacts of purity culture.
The upheaval of the last four years has changed us all - it’s been disorienting. You’ve realized the narrative you’ve been living by most of your life no longer fits as comfortably as it used to. Maybe you were one of the many who figured out that you were neurodivergent when external structures disappeared during lockdown. Maybe you started to embrace a changing sexuality, or gender identity. Maybe you started to see cracks in the systems and relationships you’d previous put faith in and it’s shaken up your sense of the world and your place within it. If any of this sounds familiar, you and I might be a really good fit.
I’m a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+ and ENM/poly-affirming, trauma-informed therapist who specializes in working with those who are late-diagnosed with ADHD, autism, or AuDHD (or suspect they might be) and are figuring out its impact, those navigating ENM/poly relationships, and those deconstructing from high control religion and the impacts of purity culture.
The upheaval of the last four years has changed us all - it’s been disorienting. You’ve realized the narrative you’ve been living by most of your life no longer fits as comfortably as it used to. Maybe you were one of the many who figured out that you were neurodivergent when external structures disappeared during lockdown. Maybe you started to embrace a changing sexuality, or gender identity. Maybe you started to see cracks in the systems and relationships you’d previous put faith in and it’s shaken up your sense of the world and your place within it. If any of this sounds familiar, you and I might be a really good fit.
(626) 602-9646 View (626) 602-9646
Photo of Kayla Garcia, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Garcia
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
I have helped those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, racial inequities, BPD, and autism spectrum.
Connecting to my clients is of utmost importance to me. Connecting to you is essential in assisting you to achieve your goals; I truly believe in actively being present for you. I openly listen to what is of significance to you and I non-judgmentally hear where you’re coming from and your life experiences.
I have helped those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, racial inequities, BPD, and autism spectrum.
Connecting to my clients is of utmost importance to me. Connecting to you is essential in assisting you to achieve your goals; I truly believe in actively being present for you. I openly listen to what is of significance to you and I non-judgmentally hear where you’re coming from and your life experiences.
(626) 649-4411 x002 View (626) 649-4411 x002
Photo of Rebecca DeLeon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca DeLeon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
City of Industry, CA 91748  (Online Only)
She has worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, stress, and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Rebecca DeLeon is a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 15 years of experience in the field. Her therapeutic style is both compassionate and evidence-based, ensuring that her clients receive the most effective care tailored to their unique needs. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their challenges and achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives. Rebecca's expertise lies in working in residential settings, where she has honed her skills in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
She has worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, stress, and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Rebecca DeLeon is a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 15 years of experience in the field. Her therapeutic style is both compassionate and evidence-based, ensuring that her clients receive the most effective care tailored to their unique needs. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their challenges and achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives. Rebecca's expertise lies in working in residential settings, where she has honed her skills in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(626) 317-7636 View (626) 317-7636
Carol DuBois-Chess
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
I provide therapeutic interventions with both children and adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, and issues of loss, and grief. I am also trained to assess and treat both children and adults with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders. In addition, I am able to administer and interpret cognitive and psychological assessment instruments.
I provide therapeutic interventions with both children and adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, and issues of loss, and grief. I am also trained to assess and treat both children and adults with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders. In addition, I am able to administer and interpret cognitive and psychological assessment instruments.
(626) 507-4142 View (626) 507-4142
Photo of Michael Tiura, CP, Psychologist
Michael Tiura
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Pomona, CA 91768
My name is Michael Tiura and I am a licensed psychologist based in Oakland, CA. I work with clients via telehealth throughout California. I specialize in working with clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, in addition to building healthy coping strategies. I provide brief, (3 to 6 months) skills-based therapy using techniques from cognitive behavior therapy, positive psychology, and dialectical behavior therapy. My communication style is warm, relaxed, and collaborative. I want clients to feel safe and comfortable while also having a say in what their goals and treatment will look like.
My name is Michael Tiura and I am a licensed psychologist based in Oakland, CA. I work with clients via telehealth throughout California. I specialize in working with clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, in addition to building healthy coping strategies. I provide brief, (3 to 6 months) skills-based therapy using techniques from cognitive behavior therapy, positive psychology, and dialectical behavior therapy. My communication style is warm, relaxed, and collaborative. I want clients to feel safe and comfortable while also having a say in what their goals and treatment will look like.
(909) 639-3866 View (909) 639-3866
Photo of Ted Cosse - Fuller Psychological and Family Services, PsyD
Fuller Psychological and Family Services
PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
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.
(626) 539-9857 View (626) 539-9857
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.