Autism Therapists in Chino Hills, CA

Photo of Kelsey Compton, EdS, LEP, PPS
Kelsey Compton
EdS, LEP, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
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 Alexander Goitein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Goitein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chino Hills, CA 91709  (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
Latricea Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
(909) 666-9614 View (909) 666-9614
Photo of Patricia Chan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
With over 15 years working in the community and graduate lecturer at USC, Patricia's main goal, as an LCSW and Doctorate of Psychology Candidate is to help you work out your problems- We experience problems everyday but sometimes it can become so overwhelming that we may begin to develop unhealthy/uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms in our minds and bodies. These ailments may affect our behaviors and the way we function at work, home, school, and/or church. They may even disrupt our relationships with friends, families, and/or co-workers.
With over 15 years working in the community and graduate lecturer at USC, Patricia's main goal, as an LCSW and Doctorate of Psychology Candidate is to help you work out your problems- We experience problems everyday but sometimes it can become so overwhelming that we may begin to develop unhealthy/uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms in our minds and bodies. These ailments may affect our behaviors and the way we function at work, home, school, and/or church. They may even disrupt our relationships with friends, families, and/or co-workers.
(909) 918-4616 View (909) 918-4616
Photo of Judy Riggan, MA, LMFCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Riggan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFCC
Verified Verified
Chino Hills, CA 91709
I can help. Sometimes life can be difficult. You may need someone on your side. I have been educated and trained to come beside you while you work through your difficulties. I look forward to meeting you and am honored to work with you. With my Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University, I have been given the educational background that allows me to have the opportunity to counsel with amazing people like you. It is my greatest reward in life to meet and talk with those in pain, chaos, and depression over their life circumstances.
I can help. Sometimes life can be difficult. You may need someone on your side. I have been educated and trained to come beside you while you work through your difficulties. I look forward to meeting you and am honored to work with you. With my Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University, I have been given the educational background that allows me to have the opportunity to counsel with amazing people like you. It is my greatest reward in life to meet and talk with those in pain, chaos, and depression over their life circumstances.
(909) 584-5439 View (909) 584-5439
Photo of Aaron D Smith, PsyD, Psychologist
Aaron D Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
Selecting a therapist can be an intimidating process. Many factors are weighing in on your selection process. It can be scary to reach out and be vulnerable to someone you have never met. Thank you for your willingness to seek help and to take a bold step towards a more satisfying future. If you choose to explore treatment options with me, I can assure you of my dedication and passion to join with you and be a support for you in whatever life may be throwing your way. I am easy going, approachable and enjoy a good laugh.
Selecting a therapist can be an intimidating process. Many factors are weighing in on your selection process. It can be scary to reach out and be vulnerable to someone you have never met. Thank you for your willingness to seek help and to take a bold step towards a more satisfying future. If you choose to explore treatment options with me, I can assure you of my dedication and passion to join with you and be a support for you in whatever life may be throwing your way. I am easy going, approachable and enjoy a good laugh.
(951) 543-4003 View (951) 543-4003
Photo of Serene Pathways, MFT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Serene Pathways
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chino Hills, CA 91709  (Online Only)
30 Therapists to choose from and here to help on-line and in our offices. We at Serene Pathways Counseling want to be there to support you. Our work and expertise is a confidential way for us to hold therapy sessions with you regarding emotional struggles as we navigate whatever you may struggle with. www.serenepathways.com
30 Therapists to choose from and here to help on-line and in our offices. We at Serene Pathways Counseling want to be there to support you. Our work and expertise is a confidential way for us to hold therapy sessions with you regarding emotional struggles as we navigate whatever you may struggle with. www.serenepathways.com
(909) 378-9082 View (909) 378-9082
Photo of Alexis Merlo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexis Merlo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chino Hills, CA 91709  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is empathetic, client-centered, and strength-based. I like meeting the clients where they are and assessing any other skills that need to be implemented. I use a direct, gentle confrontation approach by holding my clients accountable to help promote growth and help guide them to find their voice. If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there and I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some support in areas of your life.
My therapeutic approach is empathetic, client-centered, and strength-based. I like meeting the clients where they are and assessing any other skills that need to be implemented. I use a direct, gentle confrontation approach by holding my clients accountable to help promote growth and help guide them to find their voice. If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there and I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some support in areas of your life.
(909) 655-5272 View (909) 655-5272
Photo of Michelle Hernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709  (Online Only)
My background is in Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, and Trauma Informed Therapy. I have extensive experience working with clients with severe mental illness, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and developmental delays. My life’s work is about helping others improve their lives and making lasting changes toward wellness. My specialty areas include working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger management, family dynamics, and stress management.
My background is in Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, and Trauma Informed Therapy. I have extensive experience working with clients with severe mental illness, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and developmental delays. My life’s work is about helping others improve their lives and making lasting changes toward wellness. My specialty areas include working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger management, family dynamics, and stress management.
(510) 726-1385 View (510) 726-1385

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Belinda Nunez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91764
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
(909) 316-5843 View (909) 316-5843
Photo of Tamara Obregon Madera, PsyD, Psychologist
Tamara Obregon Madera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
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
Claremont, CA 91711
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 Nicole Myers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have difficulty navigating relationships? Diagnosed or suspected Autism or ADHD and needing support? Feel free to reach out to me for a free 15 minute phone consultation or check out my website at Nicolemyersmft.
I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist and I specialize working with neurodivergent clients ( Autism/ADHD) and related difficulties. I have a special interest in relationship and social difficulties and how masking and rejection sensitivity impacts mental health. Issues I work with are: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, perfectionism, relationship issues and trauma, problems at school or work (motivation, attention, and interpersonal problems). I use an individualized approach based on my client's needs, using evidence based approaches: CBT, Mindfulness, ACT, family systems, self-compassion, Social Support, and DBT-informed.
Do you have difficulty navigating relationships? Diagnosed or suspected Autism or ADHD and needing support? Feel free to reach out to me for a free 15 minute phone consultation or check out my website at Nicolemyersmft.
I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist and I specialize working with neurodivergent clients ( Autism/ADHD) and related difficulties. I have a special interest in relationship and social difficulties and how masking and rejection sensitivity impacts mental health. Issues I work with are: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, perfectionism, relationship issues and trauma, problems at school or work (motivation, attention, and interpersonal problems). I use an individualized approach based on my client's needs, using evidence based approaches: CBT, Mindfulness, ACT, family systems, self-compassion, Social Support, and DBT-informed.
(206) 203-2352 View (206) 203-2352
Photo of Joseph C McCarty, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Joseph C McCarty
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
I offer testing for attention/memory, personality/emotional, cognitive/IQ, academic/LD and developmental/functional/ autism areas.
Dr. Joe exclusively provides psychological testing, at which he has 20+ yrs experience. Testing is a great way to answer questions about what’s going on with a person to guide treatment and document eligibility for services and funding, as well as to demystify mental processes that seem abstract and hard to understand. Testing can clarify diagnoses, give a picture of one’s attentional and emotional state, determine learning and developmental levels, and figure out if an ongoing form of treatment is working. Dr. Joe believes mental health services should be fun and human whenever possible! Special needs can often be accommodated.
I offer testing for attention/memory, personality/emotional, cognitive/IQ, academic/LD and developmental/functional/ autism areas.
Dr. Joe exclusively provides psychological testing, at which he has 20+ yrs experience. Testing is a great way to answer questions about what’s going on with a person to guide treatment and document eligibility for services and funding, as well as to demystify mental processes that seem abstract and hard to understand. Testing can clarify diagnoses, give a picture of one’s attentional and emotional state, determine learning and developmental levels, and figure out if an ongoing form of treatment is working. Dr. Joe believes mental health services should be fun and human whenever possible! Special needs can often be accommodated.
(509) 381-1006 View (509) 381-1006
Photo of Jamie Roberts, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91764
ADHD and Autism Diagnostic Assessments for adults 18+ is my specialty. I believe in and support self diagnosis and recognize that there is often still a desire to have a mental health clinician confirm what you already suspect (Hello imposter syndrome). These assessments can be completed in person at our Rancho Cucamonga office or virtually for California residents. To learn more and schedule your assessment today, visit www.equilibriumcs.com/neurodivergent-assessment or message us here.
ADHD and Autism Diagnostic Assessments for adults 18+ is my specialty. I believe in and support self diagnosis and recognize that there is often still a desire to have a mental health clinician confirm what you already suspect (Hello imposter syndrome). These assessments can be completed in person at our Rancho Cucamonga office or virtually for California residents. To learn more and schedule your assessment today, visit www.equilibriumcs.com/neurodivergent-assessment or message us here.
(909) 414-0803 View (909) 414-0803
Photo of Briana Brewster, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Brewster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
Briana offers additional specialties in Autism Spectrum Disorders, ensuring comprehensive support for diverse needs.
Briana has a strong passion for treating anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complexities and challenges these conditions can present and works diligently to create personalized treatment plans. Using evidencebased approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, she helps clients develop effective coping strategies and achieve meaningful progress. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma, Briana also specializes in working with individuals dealing with depression, grief, and childhood behavior issues.
Briana offers additional specialties in Autism Spectrum Disorders, ensuring comprehensive support for diverse needs.
Briana has a strong passion for treating anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complexities and challenges these conditions can present and works diligently to create personalized treatment plans. Using evidencebased approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, she helps clients develop effective coping strategies and achieve meaningful progress. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma, Briana also specializes in working with individuals dealing with depression, grief, and childhood behavior issues.
(626) 667-2293 View (626) 667-2293
Photo of Yolanda Medina, MS,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yolanda Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
Yolanda’s experience working with diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals on the autism spectrum, and those involved in adoption or foster care, allows her to offer inclusive and culturally sensitive care.
Specializing in a broad range of mental health concerns, Yolanda is particularly passionate about working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to supporting those with PTSD and trauma, where she provides a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and begin healing. Additionally, Yolanda is skilled in helping couples and families improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and stronger connections. She also works with clients navigating women’s issues, offering tailored support to empower them in overcoming life’s challenges.
Yolanda’s experience working with diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals on the autism spectrum, and those involved in adoption or foster care, allows her to offer inclusive and culturally sensitive care.
Specializing in a broad range of mental health concerns, Yolanda is particularly passionate about working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to supporting those with PTSD and trauma, where she provides a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and begin healing. Additionally, Yolanda is skilled in helping couples and families improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and stronger connections. She also works with clients navigating women’s issues, offering tailored support to empower them in overcoming life’s challenges.
(626) 779-8508 View (626) 779-8508
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 Jael Flores, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jael Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92882  (Online Only)
My work also focuses on working with individuals with ADHD and/or Autism, as well as gifted individuals.
Do you often feel like you don't belong, maybe relationships are difficult to navigate, or feel that others do not understand you? Sometimes these issues can make us feel anxious or depressed but these struggles can sometimes only be the surface of our problems. Is not unusual, oftentimes, for trauma, OCD, ADHD, or Autism to be the root of problems. Helping you gain better understanding of how to manage mental health struggles in these areas, learn tools that will help you feel better, and maintain a balanced life are few of the goals I focus in treatment.
My work also focuses on working with individuals with ADHD and/or Autism, as well as gifted individuals.
Do you often feel like you don't belong, maybe relationships are difficult to navigate, or feel that others do not understand you? Sometimes these issues can make us feel anxious or depressed but these struggles can sometimes only be the surface of our problems. Is not unusual, oftentimes, for trauma, OCD, ADHD, or Autism to be the root of problems. Helping you gain better understanding of how to manage mental health struggles in these areas, learn tools that will help you feel better, and maintain a balanced life are few of the goals I focus in treatment.
(951) 400-4102 View (951) 400-4102
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

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.