Autism Therapists in Eagle Rock, CA

Photo of Denise Rockwell, PhD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Denise Rockwell
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Rockwell Psychological Services offers psychological and psychoeducational evaluations and treatment for children ages 2-18, as well as individual, family, and couples therapy for adults. Parent training and education are central to our practice, as we believe that the most substantial and sustained change in child behavior comes when families are empowered to take strategies learned in therapy sessions and apply them to real life situations. We collaborate closely with medical, educational, and clinical providers both during the assessment and treatment process to ensure that families are fully supported.
Rockwell Psychological Services offers psychological and psychoeducational evaluations and treatment for children ages 2-18, as well as individual, family, and couples therapy for adults. Parent training and education are central to our practice, as we believe that the most substantial and sustained change in child behavior comes when families are empowered to take strategies learned in therapy sessions and apply them to real life situations. We collaborate closely with medical, educational, and clinical providers both during the assessment and treatment process to ensure that families are fully supported.
(213) 660-4743 View (213) 660-4743
Photo of Nicole Pickering, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Pickering
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Seeing your child struggle with anxiety is such a helpless feeling. Your daughter is paralyzed with fear about what others may think of her, and nothing that you say can comfort her. Your son freezes on homework and tests, feeling that everything must be perfect, and you feel guilty, as you wonder if you've passed these anxious thoughts down to him. Sunday night comes and they're preoccupied with the thought of the impending school week, and no matter how rational you are with them, they can't shake the dread that comes with going to school.
Seeing your child struggle with anxiety is such a helpless feeling. Your daughter is paralyzed with fear about what others may think of her, and nothing that you say can comfort her. Your son freezes on homework and tests, feeling that everything must be perfect, and you feel guilty, as you wonder if you've passed these anxious thoughts down to him. Sunday night comes and they're preoccupied with the thought of the impending school week, and no matter how rational you are with them, they can't shake the dread that comes with going to school.
(424) 292-6925 View (424) 292-6925
CBT Treatment Center, A Psychological Corporation
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Seeing your child struggle is such a helpless feeling. You wish you could find the right words that would fix it all, but nothing that you say, and no amount of logic that you use seems to help. Perhaps you have even tried therapy before, with little progress or success, and you're not sure if this is even a fixable problem. Your child's struggles have become the focus of the entire family. You just want your happy little boy or girl back and to have normalcy restored at home.
Seeing your child struggle is such a helpless feeling. You wish you could find the right words that would fix it all, but nothing that you say, and no amount of logic that you use seems to help. Perhaps you have even tried therapy before, with little progress or success, and you're not sure if this is even a fixable problem. Your child's struggles have become the focus of the entire family. You just want your happy little boy or girl back and to have normalcy restored at home.
(424) 835-7372 View (424) 835-7372
Photo of Katie Poland, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Poland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Hi there! Are you a stressed out parent, trying to find ways to parent meaningfully while also managing your own feelings and struggles? Are you struggling to connect with your partner, in a new stage of life? Or are you an over-worked young adult, feeling all the pressures to 'achieve' even though your circumstances are so different from previous generations? Then you are not alone. Therapy is a wonderful place to explore these struggles and find new ways of coping and healing. In therapy we will work on your pain points, old ways of coping, and how to heal from past trauma so you can be free to live in a connected, calm way.
Hi there! Are you a stressed out parent, trying to find ways to parent meaningfully while also managing your own feelings and struggles? Are you struggling to connect with your partner, in a new stage of life? Or are you an over-worked young adult, feeling all the pressures to 'achieve' even though your circumstances are so different from previous generations? Then you are not alone. Therapy is a wonderful place to explore these struggles and find new ways of coping and healing. In therapy we will work on your pain points, old ways of coping, and how to heal from past trauma so you can be free to live in a connected, calm way.
(626) 427-6813 View (626) 427-6813
Photo of Michelle Harwell, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Harwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
You made it here which means a courageous part of you is seeking understanding, meaning, and healing. As a psychoanalyst, I am trained to listen for the soft whispers of desire and hope living beneath the mountain of fears, disappointment and despair accumulated through a lifetime of heartbreak. Through deep listening, exploration, and a little play, we will come to know the various ways your pain story continues to speak. We will examine the unique self-protective behaviors you developed to keep you safe and how these feelings and behaviors may be getting in the way of the intimacy, connection and internal freedom you are seeking.
You made it here which means a courageous part of you is seeking understanding, meaning, and healing. As a psychoanalyst, I am trained to listen for the soft whispers of desire and hope living beneath the mountain of fears, disappointment and despair accumulated through a lifetime of heartbreak. Through deep listening, exploration, and a little play, we will come to know the various ways your pain story continues to speak. We will examine the unique self-protective behaviors you developed to keep you safe and how these feelings and behaviors may be getting in the way of the intimacy, connection and internal freedom you are seeking.
(626) 671-4621 View (626) 671-4621
Photo of Melissa Dellens, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Dellens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041  (Online Only)
You may come here looking because there are parts of yourself you feel like you must hide. You may feel like there are conflicts with who you are, and how you currently present in the world. You may be coming to a deeper understanding of your gender or sexual identity. It can be hard to know how to talk to your family and friends. This can be a scary time filled with a lot of fear, curiosity, uncertainty, and grief; all of which can complicate your relationship with your family and friends. Together we can explore ways to find a little more ease in the journey.
You may come here looking because there are parts of yourself you feel like you must hide. You may feel like there are conflicts with who you are, and how you currently present in the world. You may be coming to a deeper understanding of your gender or sexual identity. It can be hard to know how to talk to your family and friends. This can be a scary time filled with a lot of fear, curiosity, uncertainty, and grief; all of which can complicate your relationship with your family and friends. Together we can explore ways to find a little more ease in the journey.
(323) 522-2207 View (323) 522-2207
Photo of Kelly O'Phelan, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelly O'Phelan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Are you tired of struggling? Are you seeking someone to help you navigate life's challenges and reauthor your own story? Hi, I'm Kelly, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a passion for helping people access their potential! I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and LGBTQ+ individuals, helping them discover new perspectives and foster positive changes. I use an integrative approach to therapy, combining narrative therapy, EMDR, creative arts therapy, DBT, person centered, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy to help you meet your individual goals in therapy.
Are you tired of struggling? Are you seeking someone to help you navigate life's challenges and reauthor your own story? Hi, I'm Kelly, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a passion for helping people access their potential! I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and LGBTQ+ individuals, helping them discover new perspectives and foster positive changes. I use an integrative approach to therapy, combining narrative therapy, EMDR, creative arts therapy, DBT, person centered, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy to help you meet your individual goals in therapy.
(323) 431-9967 View (323) 431-9967
Photo of East Side Therapy - East Side Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist
East Side Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
We understand that it is difficult to find a therapist you can actually connect to - someone who is both effective and human. That is why our therapists strive for this balance, providing authentic and effective therapy. We work collaboratively with people to detail their future hopes and honor the histories that inform their current experiences and relationships. Our goal is to not only effectively reduce symptoms, but also to facilitate the creation of a strong relationship with yourself and your inner world. Therapy can be a transformative experience when it is co-created and tailored to each individual, couple, or family.
We understand that it is difficult to find a therapist you can actually connect to - someone who is both effective and human. That is why our therapists strive for this balance, providing authentic and effective therapy. We work collaboratively with people to detail their future hopes and honor the histories that inform their current experiences and relationships. Our goal is to not only effectively reduce symptoms, but also to facilitate the creation of a strong relationship with yourself and your inner world. Therapy can be a transformative experience when it is co-created and tailored to each individual, couple, or family.
(818) 960-6008 View (818) 960-6008
Photo of Polly Grant, MA, DEdPsy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Polly Grant
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, DEdPsy
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
I provide therapy to people across the lifespan, from young children to older adults, as well as couples and families. While the methods may change depending on age and circumstance the goals are often similar: to feel understood, to connect, and to grow. I work in a respectful, collaborative and creative way to explore the parts of self that might be contributing to feelings of stagnation and being stuck. I was previously licensed as an Educational and Child Psychologist in the UK and I have extensive experience in schools, working with children, parents and faculty to support student growth and wellbeing.
I provide therapy to people across the lifespan, from young children to older adults, as well as couples and families. While the methods may change depending on age and circumstance the goals are often similar: to feel understood, to connect, and to grow. I work in a respectful, collaborative and creative way to explore the parts of self that might be contributing to feelings of stagnation and being stuck. I was previously licensed as an Educational and Child Psychologist in the UK and I have extensive experience in schools, working with children, parents and faculty to support student growth and wellbeing.
(626) 344-0458 View (626) 344-0458
Photo of Cornelia Seiffert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cornelia Seiffert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
You are exhausted. You have tried everything and you still don't feel right. No matter what you do you, you cannot reach a state of contentment. You soldier on day by day but feel like things are just get worse and worse. All you want to do is hide under the covers. Maybe you see that society is collapsing around you and think there is nothing you can do about it? Where can a person turn for help? You often wonder, is there a solution out there or will I have to try yet another intervention that doesn't work? Stop blaming yourself, much of this is a normal reaction to abnormal circumstances.
You are exhausted. You have tried everything and you still don't feel right. No matter what you do you, you cannot reach a state of contentment. You soldier on day by day but feel like things are just get worse and worse. All you want to do is hide under the covers. Maybe you see that society is collapsing around you and think there is nothing you can do about it? Where can a person turn for help? You often wonder, is there a solution out there or will I have to try yet another intervention that doesn't work? Stop blaming yourself, much of this is a normal reaction to abnormal circumstances.
(657) 256-5948 View (657) 256-5948

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jeni Yarbrough, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeni Yarbrough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I also do assessment evaluations for adults with ADHD and Autism.
Do you want to live fearlessly? Do you feel like a rebel? Do you want to feel joy again? Working through holistic lens strengths and relational connection, I enjoy supporting clients on a variety of topics from identity, relationships, poly/kink, parenting, anxiety and family topics. My goal is for you to live a fulfilled and authentic life as you wish. I am honored to hold space and be with you on discovering what that means for you!
I also do assessment evaluations for adults with ADHD and Autism.
Do you want to live fearlessly? Do you feel like a rebel? Do you want to feel joy again? Working through holistic lens strengths and relational connection, I enjoy supporting clients on a variety of topics from identity, relationships, poly/kink, parenting, anxiety and family topics. My goal is for you to live a fulfilled and authentic life as you wish. I am honored to hold space and be with you on discovering what that means for you!
(213) 583-0506 View (213) 583-0506
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 366-3016 View (323) 366-3016
Photo of D Seright - Adult Autism Assessment, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adult Autism Assessment, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I provide telehealth autism assessment services through Adult Autism Assessment & Services, LLC to clients located in the states of Oregon or California.
I am so delighted you found your way here. A little about me – I am a white, queer, genderqueer, afab, neuroqueer (AuDHD) licensed masters-level clinician (LMFT). I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent people in living their best, most liberated lives. I work from a liberation philosophy and neurodivergent-affirming lens and also believe strongly that self-identification is valid. I began working in the mental health field in 2010 and have worked in a variety of settings. The primary focus of my work in recent years has been on supporting neurodivergent adults and adult autism assessments.
I provide telehealth autism assessment services through Adult Autism Assessment & Services, LLC to clients located in the states of Oregon or California.
I am so delighted you found your way here. A little about me – I am a white, queer, genderqueer, afab, neuroqueer (AuDHD) licensed masters-level clinician (LMFT). I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent people in living their best, most liberated lives. I work from a liberation philosophy and neurodivergent-affirming lens and also believe strongly that self-identification is valid. I began working in the mental health field in 2010 and have worked in a variety of settings. The primary focus of my work in recent years has been on supporting neurodivergent adults and adult autism assessments.
(805) 427-9010 View (805) 427-9010
Photo of Jared Anderson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jared Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Glassell Park, CA 90065  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma (EMDR, somatic, IFS), structural dissociation/DID, sex and love addiction, LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary identity, and autism.
I help creatives, public people, academics, designers, corporate, and tech professionals heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas yet suffer anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse, neglect, emotional disconnect can result in both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (internal family systems/parts work), Somatic Experiencing, & psychedelic ketamine work. I also specialize with ASD/neurodivergent ( autism), DID/dissociation, & LGBTQ+.
I have specialized training in trauma (EMDR, somatic, IFS), structural dissociation/DID, sex and love addiction, LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary identity, and autism.
I help creatives, public people, academics, designers, corporate, and tech professionals heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas yet suffer anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse, neglect, emotional disconnect can result in both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (internal family systems/parts work), Somatic Experiencing, & psychedelic ketamine work. I also specialize with ASD/neurodivergent ( autism), DID/dissociation, & LGBTQ+.
(213) 372-0180 View (213) 372-0180
Photo of Janis Reid, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janis Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
As the parent of a special needs child and a specialist in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, I have a unique view of the stresses of raising children who have brain based disabilities and trauma, including FASD, ADHD, RAD, Autism, foster care and adoption, and early trauma.
Everyone has challenging times and pain in their life they want to move past. Many need someone to accompany them to move through these times. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is key to helping people overcome trauma, grief, and disappointments to move toward the goals you want in your life. I have over 25 years of experience with children, youth and families who have experienced trauma, conflict, behavioral challenges, and life transitions including moving toward independence, exploring sexuality, and managing disabilities. I have seen the healing and growth that happen. Give yourself the chance.
As the parent of a special needs child and a specialist in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, I have a unique view of the stresses of raising children who have brain based disabilities and trauma, including FASD, ADHD, RAD, Autism, foster care and adoption, and early trauma.
Everyone has challenging times and pain in their life they want to move past. Many need someone to accompany them to move through these times. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is key to helping people overcome trauma, grief, and disappointments to move toward the goals you want in your life. I have over 25 years of experience with children, youth and families who have experienced trauma, conflict, behavioral challenges, and life transitions including moving toward independence, exploring sexuality, and managing disabilities. I have seen the healing and growth that happen. Give yourself the chance.
(626) 605-6530 View (626) 605-6530
Photo of Erica Salzman, MS, LEP, NCSP
Erica Salzman
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, LEP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I provide assessment, consultation, and intervention planning for Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, ADHD and executive functioning deficits, gifted and twice-exceptional clients, and emotional and behavioral disorders (i.
I’m Erica Salzman, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4465) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Through my private practice, The Exceptional Learner, I support diverse learners by identifying strengths and helping to overcome challenges. Through detailed assessments, I uncover individual learning nuances to tailor interventions and accommodations, which helps to amplify each person’s potential. I am passionate about helping individuals succeed in their educational environment.
I provide assessment, consultation, and intervention planning for Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, ADHD and executive functioning deficits, gifted and twice-exceptional clients, and emotional and behavioral disorders (i.
I’m Erica Salzman, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4465) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Through my private practice, The Exceptional Learner, I support diverse learners by identifying strengths and helping to overcome challenges. Through detailed assessments, I uncover individual learning nuances to tailor interventions and accommodations, which helps to amplify each person’s potential. I am passionate about helping individuals succeed in their educational environment.
(626) 876-3766 View (626) 876-3766
Photo of Karin Manger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Manger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, in addition to children struggling with ADHD and social skill issues.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years. My main area of focus is working with families and children. Initially in my career, I worked with children in residential treatment settings, who were struggling with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. During the past 20 years I have worked primarily in the field of high conflict divorce. I deal with all aspects of divorce, including mediating custody agreements, comprehensive child custody evaluations, resolving co-parenting conflicts and helping children cope with the stress of parental conflict. I also work with families dealing with blended family issues.
I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, in addition to children struggling with ADHD and social skill issues.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years. My main area of focus is working with families and children. Initially in my career, I worked with children in residential treatment settings, who were struggling with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. During the past 20 years I have worked primarily in the field of high conflict divorce. I deal with all aspects of divorce, including mediating custody agreements, comprehensive child custody evaluations, resolving co-parenting conflicts and helping children cope with the stress of parental conflict. I also work with families dealing with blended family issues.
(424) 543-8112 View (424) 543-8112
Photo of Sebastian Katten, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sebastian Katten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205  (Online Only)
Sometimes, simply existing is overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel lost in that struggle. If you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t resonate, I recognize how discouraging that can be. My aim is to create a space where you feel genuinely connected, respected, seen, and affirmed. I work through an anti-oppressive lens with individuals from the LGBTQIA2S+ community as they navigate identity, sexuality, relationships, and the complexities of suspected or diagnosed ADHD and/or Autism, anxiety, and trauma. Together, we’ll cultivate a greater sense of control, self-compassion, and help you feel truly at home within yourself.
Sometimes, simply existing is overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel lost in that struggle. If you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t resonate, I recognize how discouraging that can be. My aim is to create a space where you feel genuinely connected, respected, seen, and affirmed. I work through an anti-oppressive lens with individuals from the LGBTQIA2S+ community as they navigate identity, sexuality, relationships, and the complexities of suspected or diagnosed ADHD and/or Autism, anxiety, and trauma. Together, we’ll cultivate a greater sense of control, self-compassion, and help you feel truly at home within yourself.
(323) 402-6495 View (323) 402-6495
Photo of Carol Hirshfield, PhD, Psychologist
Carol Hirshfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
I have had over 25 years experience working with children, adults and their families on both the East and West Coasts. I was born and raised in New York City, and have had professional experience in New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles and Seattle. My special expertise includes child development, populations with special needs (learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, developmental disabilities, and autism), and services for families who are engaged in high conflict divorce. I am here to help you, and if your family needs help, work with the issues life brings us.
I have had over 25 years experience working with children, adults and their families on both the East and West Coasts. I was born and raised in New York City, and have had professional experience in New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles and Seattle. My special expertise includes child development, populations with special needs (learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, developmental disabilities, and autism), and services for families who are engaged in high conflict divorce. I am here to help you, and if your family needs help, work with the issues life brings us.
(310) 321-4280 View (310) 321-4280
Photo of Sami Klebanoff, PhD, Psychologist
Sami Klebanoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
She evaluates areas such as ADHD, autism, personality, learning differences/styles, emotional/behavioral challenges, developmental delays, and giftedness.
Dr. Sami Klebanoff is a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience assessing and treating children and families. Dr. Klebanoff received her PhD from UCLA in Educational/Developmental Psychology and specializes in pediatric psychological assessment and parent support services. Dr. Klebanoff has worked in home, school, and clinic settings with individuals with a variety of learning difficulties, behavioral/emotional challenges, and developmental delays.
She evaluates areas such as ADHD, autism, personality, learning differences/styles, emotional/behavioral challenges, developmental delays, and giftedness.
Dr. Sami Klebanoff is a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience assessing and treating children and families. Dr. Klebanoff received her PhD from UCLA in Educational/Developmental Psychology and specializes in pediatric psychological assessment and parent support services. Dr. Klebanoff has worked in home, school, and clinic settings with individuals with a variety of learning difficulties, behavioral/emotional challenges, and developmental delays.
(213) 693-4120 View (213) 693-4120

See more therapy options for Eagle Rock

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.