Autism Therapists in Burbank, CA

Royce Goldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, Ed, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502
Waitlist for new clients
I work with school age children to adolescents who have special behavioral or learning needs. I focus on providing support to the entire family encompassing the child, parents and siblings. I provide family counseling, parenting skills coaching, and social skills training within the context of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Polyvagal Theory. I help with the initial trauma of a child's diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder or a Specific Learning Disability. I support a family on their journey from initial diagnosis to accessing resources and programs for their child.
I work with school age children to adolescents who have special behavioral or learning needs. I focus on providing support to the entire family encompassing the child, parents and siblings. I provide family counseling, parenting skills coaching, and social skills training within the context of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Polyvagal Theory. I help with the initial trauma of a child's diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder or a Specific Learning Disability. I support a family on their journey from initial diagnosis to accessing resources and programs for their child.
(818) 465-5968 View (818) 465-5968
Photo of Grace Malonai - TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
We are neuroaffirming practice, specializing in neurodivergence, including autism, ADHD, 2e/gifted, highly sensitive, and learning disabilities.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
We are neuroaffirming practice, specializing in neurodivergence, including autism, ADHD, 2e/gifted, highly sensitive, and learning disabilities.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
(818) 337-7088 View (818) 337-7088
Photo of James W Gilbert, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
James W Gilbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I work with children on the Autism spectrum, children with severe physical disabilities, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, etc.
Is your family having difficulty with your child's transition through adolescence? Is your child having issues in school or with peers? Has your child received a diagnosis that he or she is struggling with? I can help improve communication within your family and address issues that arise within families with adolescents and young adults. I work with adolescents individually or with the family as a whole. Let me help facilitate growth and improve interactions with the goal of a more peaceful daily life.
I work with children on the Autism spectrum, children with severe physical disabilities, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, etc.
Is your family having difficulty with your child's transition through adolescence? Is your child having issues in school or with peers? Has your child received a diagnosis that he or she is struggling with? I can help improve communication within your family and address issues that arise within families with adolescents and young adults. I work with adolescents individually or with the family as a whole. Let me help facilitate growth and improve interactions with the goal of a more peaceful daily life.
(626) 722-5417 View (626) 722-5417
Photo of Veronica Yakovenko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Yakovenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
I love my work! From helping teens navigate difficult emotions, to supporting adults through various life stages, I am here for you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2007. I have experience with a wide range of needs, including dual diagnosis, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, parent support, and more! If you've considered therapy before, now is the time to give it a try. I look forward to hearing from you!
I love my work! From helping teens navigate difficult emotions, to supporting adults through various life stages, I am here for you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2007. I have experience with a wide range of needs, including dual diagnosis, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, parent support, and more! If you've considered therapy before, now is the time to give it a try. I look forward to hearing from you!
(818) 369-3584 View (818) 369-3584
Photo of Alexander Gantman, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexander Gantman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502
Dr. Alexander Gantman, received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UCLA; and he obtained Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from Palo Alto University - Stanford University Medical School Psy.D Consortium in 2008. Until recently, when he decided to move into private practice, he was a Clinical Psychologist at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, as well as an Assistant Director of the UCLA PEERS Program. Dr. Gantman was also an Autism Clinical Instructor at the UCLA Tarjan Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.
Dr. Alexander Gantman, received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UCLA; and he obtained Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from Palo Alto University - Stanford University Medical School Psy.D Consortium in 2008. Until recently, when he decided to move into private practice, he was a Clinical Psychologist at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, as well as an Assistant Director of the UCLA PEERS Program. Dr. Gantman was also an Autism Clinical Instructor at the UCLA Tarjan Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.
(310) 683-2623 View (310) 683-2623
Photo of Jose L Rios, MA, BCBA
Jose L Rios
MA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91506
Furthermore, typical clients that I assist carry an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis.
My behavioral practice, La Raiz Behavioral Solutions, offers in-home ABA services, parent consultation on various pediatric issues (e.g., toileting, sleep issues, etc), and behavior based assessments on children, teens, and young adults (18-20). We believe that everyone can benefit from powerful behavior change methods. In order to accomplish this mission, we empower our clients by teaching them skills that are relevant to them, hold ourselves accountable using data, and work together with our learners, their parents, and other service providers to make the most of our time together.
Furthermore, typical clients that I assist carry an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis.
My behavioral practice, La Raiz Behavioral Solutions, offers in-home ABA services, parent consultation on various pediatric issues (e.g., toileting, sleep issues, etc), and behavior based assessments on children, teens, and young adults (18-20). We believe that everyone can benefit from powerful behavior change methods. In order to accomplish this mission, we empower our clients by teaching them skills that are relevant to them, hold ourselves accountable using data, and work together with our learners, their parents, and other service providers to make the most of our time together.
(818) 616-8664 View (818) 616-8664
Photo of Lindsey Severance, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsey Severance
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
I have a background in child/human development and working with clients of ALL abilities including: Autism, ADHD, intellectual and cognitive disabilities.
My ideal client is someone who wants something to change in their life and don't know how to make that change happen. They would be someone who is neuro-diverse (or thinks they might be), someone who wants to learn and understand themselves and humanity as a whole, better. My ideal clients wants to be seen and understood in return. My clients want peace and self love, as well as real-world skill building and emotional regulation skills practice. I also provide supervision hours to qualifying Associates.
I have a background in child/human development and working with clients of ALL abilities including: Autism, ADHD, intellectual and cognitive disabilities.
My ideal client is someone who wants something to change in their life and don't know how to make that change happen. They would be someone who is neuro-diverse (or thinks they might be), someone who wants to learn and understand themselves and humanity as a whole, better. My ideal clients wants to be seen and understood in return. My clients want peace and self love, as well as real-world skill building and emotional regulation skills practice. I also provide supervision hours to qualifying Associates.
(747) 298-5951 View (747) 298-5951
Photo of Jacqueline Brooke Preziosa, MS, CAGS, LEP
Jacqueline Brooke Preziosa
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, CAGS, LEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91502
Psychologist, I am able to assess and diagnosis learning and/or emotional difficulties such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities and Learning Disabilities in children and adults who feel that these symptoms are interfering with school and/or work.
As an Ed Psychologist I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults to provide a safe and supportive environment for them to explore their thoughts and feelings. I use evidence-based approaches to address a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and more. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, talk therapy, and other researched based modalities, I help children, teens and young adults to develop coping skills, improve self-esteem, and build positive relationships. I also offer parent coaching and support.
Psychologist, I am able to assess and diagnosis learning and/or emotional difficulties such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities and Learning Disabilities in children and adults who feel that these symptoms are interfering with school and/or work.
As an Ed Psychologist I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults to provide a safe and supportive environment for them to explore their thoughts and feelings. I use evidence-based approaches to address a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and more. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, talk therapy, and other researched based modalities, I help children, teens and young adults to develop coping skills, improve self-esteem, and build positive relationships. I also offer parent coaching and support.
(747) 202-1809 View (747) 202-1809
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
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.
(949) 407-5679 View (949) 407-5679
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
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.
(424) 397-2562 View (424) 397-2562
Photo of Brenda Van Wyck - Dr. Brenda Van Wyck, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brenda Van Wyck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91501
My name is Dr. Brenda Van Wyck. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist located in Sherman Oaks, California. In my practice I work with adults and teens. I often treat the following symptoms: trauma, loss and bereavement, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism spectrum disorders, parenting concerns, self esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and body image issues.
My name is Dr. Brenda Van Wyck. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist located in Sherman Oaks, California. In my practice I work with adults and teens. I often treat the following symptoms: trauma, loss and bereavement, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism spectrum disorders, parenting concerns, self esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and body image issues.
(818) 306-4961 View (818) 306-4961
Photo of Christine Pourandrias, PsyD, Psychologist
Christine Pourandrias
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91501
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.
(818) 741-3023 View (818) 741-3023
Photo of Nancy Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, attention and focus issues, relationship and communication challenges, and autism.
Seeking support isn't always the easiest thing to do, and my intention is to stand beside you and empower you through your journey. I have an eclectic background in therapy training to more easily assist my clients in working through the issues at hand in the way most comfortable for them. I enjoy working with couples and families and specialize in children from 11-18, women facing a turning point or transition in their lives, folks from the LGBTQIA+ community, and individual adults. Sometimes it takes a team, and I would love to have the chance to partner with you in seeking mental wellness.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, attention and focus issues, relationship and communication challenges, and autism.
Seeking support isn't always the easiest thing to do, and my intention is to stand beside you and empower you through your journey. I have an eclectic background in therapy training to more easily assist my clients in working through the issues at hand in the way most comfortable for them. I enjoy working with couples and families and specialize in children from 11-18, women facing a turning point or transition in their lives, folks from the LGBTQIA+ community, and individual adults. Sometimes it takes a team, and I would love to have the chance to partner with you in seeking mental wellness.
(619) 853-4791 View (619) 853-4791
Photo of Jessica Hogan, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Hogan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91501  (Online Only)
Have you always felt different from everyone else, or even proudly identified as a "weirdo?" Are you burnt out and exhausted? Have therapy and medications been ineffective for you in the past? Is the search for a therapist or assessor that truly -gets- you more overwhelming than you could have ever imagined? You're in the right place. My clients are often on journeys to learn more about themselves, on a quest to feel better and enhance their quality of life. Nothing makes me happier than being immersed in a client's world. I want to know everything about what you love and care about.
Have you always felt different from everyone else, or even proudly identified as a "weirdo?" Are you burnt out and exhausted? Have therapy and medications been ineffective for you in the past? Is the search for a therapist or assessor that truly -gets- you more overwhelming than you could have ever imagined? You're in the right place. My clients are often on journeys to learn more about themselves, on a quest to feel better and enhance their quality of life. Nothing makes me happier than being immersed in a client's world. I want to know everything about what you love and care about.
View
Photo of Narineh Hartoonian - Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, Psychologist
Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91501
At the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, we help people reach their full potential by transforming their healthcare experience. We use evidence-based psychological practices and partner with other health professionals for seamless and integrated care. Our clinical psychologists provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress-management, relationship problems, and phase-of-life issues. In addition, we specialize in health and rehabilitation psychology, providing assistance to patients with medical illnesses and disabilities and sensorimotor psychotherapy, providing trauma-informed, somatic, “body-based” therapy.
At the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, we help people reach their full potential by transforming their healthcare experience. We use evidence-based psychological practices and partner with other health professionals for seamless and integrated care. Our clinical psychologists provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress-management, relationship problems, and phase-of-life issues. In addition, we specialize in health and rehabilitation psychology, providing assistance to patients with medical illnesses and disabilities and sensorimotor psychotherapy, providing trauma-informed, somatic, “body-based” therapy.
(818) 485-4519 x1002 View (818) 485-4519 x1002
Photo of Shannon M Ho, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon M Ho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist and have been working in mental health since 2017. If you are looking for a Therapist who is Compassionate and Knowledgeable, please keep reading. Many Therapists feel the need to curate their ideal client, but I am confident I can help you regardless of your background. My extensive experience has introduced me to clients with wonderfully diverse backgrounds, who have trusted me with their most vulnerable moments in life. When you work with me, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of an Experienced and Capable Therapist.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist and have been working in mental health since 2017. If you are looking for a Therapist who is Compassionate and Knowledgeable, please keep reading. Many Therapists feel the need to curate their ideal client, but I am confident I can help you regardless of your background. My extensive experience has introduced me to clients with wonderfully diverse backgrounds, who have trusted me with their most vulnerable moments in life. When you work with me, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of an Experienced and Capable Therapist.
(747) 319-4705 View (747) 319-4705
Photo of Dr. Giana Young, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Giana Young
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91501  (Online Only)
When people come to therapy, it's as if they are saying, "I really don't want to walk home by myself". There are few opportunities to spend one day per week, dedicated to you (or your family perhaps)...accompanied by someone who is empathetic, non-judgmental, and has reserved a safe space for you to release, explore, & process your thoughts, feelings, fears, reactions, progress, and triumphs, all "without guilt".
When people come to therapy, it's as if they are saying, "I really don't want to walk home by myself". There are few opportunities to spend one day per week, dedicated to you (or your family perhaps)...accompanied by someone who is empathetic, non-judgmental, and has reserved a safe space for you to release, explore, & process your thoughts, feelings, fears, reactions, progress, and triumphs, all "without guilt".
(747) 326-5150 x1002 View (747) 326-5150 x1002
Photo of Richelle Nichols, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richelle Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Your struggles and your stories are unique to you and can get in the way of the successes you want to have. I enjoy working with adults and young adults who are looking to be healthier mentally and develop skills to manage emotional stresses and responses. I also enjoy working with couples in traditional and non-traditional relationships. I am open to different spiritualities and friendly to LGBTQIA individuals. I have experience working with caregivers of seniors with dementia, mood disorders, relationship issues, addiction, and family dysfunction. I provide a culturally sensitive therapeutic space that is non-judgmental.
Your struggles and your stories are unique to you and can get in the way of the successes you want to have. I enjoy working with adults and young adults who are looking to be healthier mentally and develop skills to manage emotional stresses and responses. I also enjoy working with couples in traditional and non-traditional relationships. I am open to different spiritualities and friendly to LGBTQIA individuals. I have experience working with caregivers of seniors with dementia, mood disorders, relationship issues, addiction, and family dysfunction. I provide a culturally sensitive therapeutic space that is non-judgmental.
(844) 478-0053 View (844) 478-0053
Photo of Mariah R Gomez-Falcon, PhD, Psychologist
Mariah R Gomez-Falcon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
Beginning psychotherapy can be a daunting experience, but finding a compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced therapist who is a good match for you can alleviate the discomfort and make the process of therapy deeply meaningful.
Beginning psychotherapy can be a daunting experience, but finding a compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced therapist who is a good match for you can alleviate the discomfort and make the process of therapy deeply meaningful.
(747) 269-6188 View (747) 269-6188
Photo of Shauna Dabiri-Far, MS, LMFT, IFECMHS, RPF II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shauna Dabiri-Far
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, IFECMHS, RPF II
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91507
I am so happy that you are on this site seeking help for you/your family to get to a better place where those issues feel resolved. Please check out my website LivingNowTherapy.com as I want you to feel comfortable with who you choose to bring into your family. I believe in Living Now, experiencing the world at this very moment. Breathing in life's abundance and breathing out all the negativity that our mind has accumulated. Let me help you/your child get there. I provide therapy to young adults, families, teens, children and 0-5 aged Specialization.
I am so happy that you are on this site seeking help for you/your family to get to a better place where those issues feel resolved. Please check out my website LivingNowTherapy.com as I want you to feel comfortable with who you choose to bring into your family. I believe in Living Now, experiencing the world at this very moment. Breathing in life's abundance and breathing out all the negativity that our mind has accumulated. Let me help you/your child get there. I provide therapy to young adults, families, teens, children and 0-5 aged Specialization.
(818) 927-6303 View (818) 927-6303
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.