Autism Therapists in Folsom, CA

Photo of Stephanie Hewitt, EdS, NCSP, LEP, Psychologist
Stephanie Hewitt
Psychologist, EdS, NCSP, LEP
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
My specialties include learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD, and autism in students from preschool through college.
My name is Stephanie Hewitt, and I am a licensed educational psychologist and founder of Learning Pathways. I specialize in helping students find a pathway to success by discovering how their unique brain works and how their families and school can support them and set them up for success.
My specialties include learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD, and autism in students from preschool through college.
My name is Stephanie Hewitt, and I am a licensed educational psychologist and founder of Learning Pathways. I specialize in helping students find a pathway to success by discovering how their unique brain works and how their families and school can support them and set them up for success.
(279) 529-0529 View (279) 529-0529
Photo of Grace Lagerstrom, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace Lagerstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I work with teenagers and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety and or Depression, who are feeling stuck or lost, or unsure which direction to take in school or life. I specialize in “Adulting” and Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s), but am happy to work with anyone motivated to change their life. I also work with those who feel like who they aren't good enough, like they’re different or broken, and are tired of trying so hard. I also work with their family member’s and partners of individuals with ASD, who are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure how to help. I also provide EMDR therapy.
I work with teenagers and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety and or Depression, who are feeling stuck or lost, or unsure which direction to take in school or life. I specialize in “Adulting” and Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s), but am happy to work with anyone motivated to change their life. I also work with those who feel like who they aren't good enough, like they’re different or broken, and are tired of trying so hard. I also work with their family member’s and partners of individuals with ASD, who are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure how to help. I also provide EMDR therapy.
(530) 507-8388 View (530) 507-8388
Photo of Noe Dueñas, MS, APCC, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Noe Dueñas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Noe is a queer, Latinx, neuro diverse, disability specialist and mental health therapist that focuses his treatment on working with individuals with autism and/or developmental disabilities. Clients of Noe typically have a hard time connecting to other therapist, have behavioral outbursts at home and/or school/work, strained relationships with others, can’t find a knowledgeable therapist in autism and or developmental disabilities, problems with regulating emotions and difficulty with coping with life's everyday stresses. Noe provides support with IEP's, IPP's, getting services, individual and group therapy and social skills groups.
Noe is a queer, Latinx, neuro diverse, disability specialist and mental health therapist that focuses his treatment on working with individuals with autism and/or developmental disabilities. Clients of Noe typically have a hard time connecting to other therapist, have behavioral outbursts at home and/or school/work, strained relationships with others, can’t find a knowledgeable therapist in autism and or developmental disabilities, problems with regulating emotions and difficulty with coping with life's everyday stresses. Noe provides support with IEP's, IPP's, getting services, individual and group therapy and social skills groups.
(916) 461-1877 View (916) 461-1877
Photo of Leanne Azevedo, MA, LMFT, 97516, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leanne Azevedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 97516
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
I LOVE TO WORK WITH: Adults, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Relationship & Communication Difficulties, Life Adjustments & Life Purpose, Empaths & Highly Sensitive People.
My hope is that the safe and supportive environment I seek to create will be a place where you can openly process difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me in therapy, I will assist you in finding the tools and skills needed to live your life more effectively. I know that the challenges you may be facing right now can feel really big and overwhelming and I am here to sit with you in your pain and to help you make positive changes in your life, in part by accessing the wisdom and strength you already hold within.
I LOVE TO WORK WITH: Adults, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Relationship & Communication Difficulties, Life Adjustments & Life Purpose, Empaths & Highly Sensitive People.
My hope is that the safe and supportive environment I seek to create will be a place where you can openly process difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me in therapy, I will assist you in finding the tools and skills needed to live your life more effectively. I know that the challenges you may be facing right now can feel really big and overwhelming and I am here to sit with you in your pain and to help you make positive changes in your life, in part by accessing the wisdom and strength you already hold within.
(916) 352-8874 View (916) 352-8874
Photo of Laura L Sullivan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura L Sullivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in: EMDR; International Association of Trauma Professionals; Prepare and Enrich; Navigating the Social World Autism Spectrum Disorders; Grief and Bereavement Hospice Consortium; Love and Logic Parenting; and Level 1 &2 Trained in Complicated Grief.
I believe we all need help sometimes. Life is a journey, a journey that can be painful to navigate. It is my honor to walk beside you. It makes a difference to have someone that can help hold the burden until you find your own strength. It is my privilege to hold space as you work through trauma, pain, and grief. Transformation is a process, and to have support integrating the pain into the depths of your soul, is a gift of connection. Soul to soul. If you are searching for an advocate and a healer, it is not a coincidence you found me.
I am trained in: EMDR; International Association of Trauma Professionals; Prepare and Enrich; Navigating the Social World Autism Spectrum Disorders; Grief and Bereavement Hospice Consortium; Love and Logic Parenting; and Level 1 &2 Trained in Complicated Grief.
I believe we all need help sometimes. Life is a journey, a journey that can be painful to navigate. It is my honor to walk beside you. It makes a difference to have someone that can help hold the burden until you find your own strength. It is my privilege to hold space as you work through trauma, pain, and grief. Transformation is a process, and to have support integrating the pain into the depths of your soul, is a gift of connection. Soul to soul. If you are searching for an advocate and a healer, it is not a coincidence you found me.
(916) 382-7304 View (916) 382-7304
Photo of Dan Davies, PhD, LEP, Psychologist
Dan Davies
Psychologist, PhD, LEP
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I can assist you and your child with the following: executive function deficits, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (in children and adults), Autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, behavior problems, social issues, emotional issues such as anger management, homework struggles, and test anxiety.
Children and adolescents struggle in school for many different reasons. If your child is struggling academically, a detailed assessment is the best way to understand the true causes of these struggles. I have tested and helped hundreds of clients with a wide spectrum of struggles. In addition to assessment, I offer treatments including individual counseling, family counseling, consultation, and parenting advice. I have counseled many clients in all stages of life to help them overcome many difficulties.
I can assist you and your child with the following: executive function deficits, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (in children and adults), Autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, behavior problems, social issues, emotional issues such as anger management, homework struggles, and test anxiety.
Children and adolescents struggle in school for many different reasons. If your child is struggling academically, a detailed assessment is the best way to understand the true causes of these struggles. I have tested and helped hundreds of clients with a wide spectrum of struggles. In addition to assessment, I offer treatments including individual counseling, family counseling, consultation, and parenting advice. I have counseled many clients in all stages of life to help them overcome many difficulties.
(916) 710-8592 View (916) 710-8592
Photo of Lauren Lerza, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Lerza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Lauren Lerza provides neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. If your child is struggling in school, having attention difficulties, experienced a brain injury, or is having behavioral issues, Dr. Lerza's comprehensive evaluations can help you better understand how to best support your child or yourself moving forward. Dr. Lerza's specialty areas are in learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, and brain injury. Her evaluations focus on answering parent and client questions as to the source of the individual's difficulties, and then on recommendations and resources to best support your child or client moving forward.
Dr. Lauren Lerza provides neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. If your child is struggling in school, having attention difficulties, experienced a brain injury, or is having behavioral issues, Dr. Lerza's comprehensive evaluations can help you better understand how to best support your child or yourself moving forward. Dr. Lerza's specialty areas are in learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, and brain injury. Her evaluations focus on answering parent and client questions as to the source of the individual's difficulties, and then on recommendations and resources to best support your child or client moving forward.
(916) 545-9792 View (916) 545-9792
Photo of Alison C Webster, MSW, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison C Webster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
I am Alison Webster, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, currently working part- time at Grow Therapy. My day job is working as a school social worker K-8th grade. I will be available full time to see clients after mid June 2024. I have 9 years of experience counseling children, teens and adults. I have in- depth knowledge of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma. I have a background in coaching positive parenting and teaching my clients coping mechanisms. My passion is working with children, youth, teens and adults.
I am Alison Webster, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, currently working part- time at Grow Therapy. My day job is working as a school social worker K-8th grade. I will be available full time to see clients after mid June 2024. I have 9 years of experience counseling children, teens and adults. I have in- depth knowledge of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma. I have a background in coaching positive parenting and teaching my clients coping mechanisms. My passion is working with children, youth, teens and adults.
(916) 900-0234 View (916) 900-0234
Photo of Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
(916) 597-0292 View (916) 597-0292
Photo of Lynne Bradshaw, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lynne Bradshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I have extensive experience working with adults and children with adhd and autism/sensory issues.
Have you “tried everything” including talk therapy and it’s “helped a little.” Do you feel like you’re stuck in a pattern you can’t seem to change on your own? Is a transformation too much to ask for? It’s not! I’ve seen it happen many times! You need someone to help you map out a plan to a better life and not just give you breathing techniques! Are you willing to try brainspotting therapy? It evolved from EMDR and it’s often a game changer. I’m a certified Brainspotting trauma therapist that often combines cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems and solution focused therapy with brainspotting principles.
I have extensive experience working with adults and children with adhd and autism/sensory issues.
Have you “tried everything” including talk therapy and it’s “helped a little.” Do you feel like you’re stuck in a pattern you can’t seem to change on your own? Is a transformation too much to ask for? It’s not! I’ve seen it happen many times! You need someone to help you map out a plan to a better life and not just give you breathing techniques! Are you willing to try brainspotting therapy? It evolved from EMDR and it’s often a game changer. I’m a certified Brainspotting trauma therapist that often combines cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems and solution focused therapy with brainspotting principles.
(279) 205-6721 View (279) 205-6721
Photo of Lisa Kristen Sloan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Kristen Sloan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, phobias, autism, post-partium issues, personality disorders, substance use disorders, etc.
I love working will clients to fulfill their goals and dreams. I specialize in Anxiety and Trauma and am EMDR trained. I also have experience in depression, agoraphobia, overwhelm, anger, and emotional reactivity. Each treatment plan, like each client is unique and I cater our time together to be ideal to reach your potential. I have lot of experiences with youth, teens, and young adults. I feel confident in helping you through any life challenge or struggle and can help guide you on a new and helpful path.
Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, phobias, autism, post-partium issues, personality disorders, substance use disorders, etc.
I love working will clients to fulfill their goals and dreams. I specialize in Anxiety and Trauma and am EMDR trained. I also have experience in depression, agoraphobia, overwhelm, anger, and emotional reactivity. Each treatment plan, like each client is unique and I cater our time together to be ideal to reach your potential. I have lot of experiences with youth, teens, and young adults. I feel confident in helping you through any life challenge or struggle and can help guide you on a new and helpful path.
(916) 249-7113 View (916) 249-7113
Photo of Josina Grassi Moak, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Josina Grassi Moak
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works individuals who struggle anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I also specialize in helping people improve attention and procrastination, including those with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and learning differences. I provide both in-person and telehealth therapy, screening evaluations, and consultation. I also provide goal-oriented coaching aimed at keeping clients motivated, organized, and focused.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works individuals who struggle anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I also specialize in helping people improve attention and procrastination, including those with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and learning differences. I provide both in-person and telehealth therapy, screening evaluations, and consultation. I also provide goal-oriented coaching aimed at keeping clients motivated, organized, and focused.
(916) 580-5130 View (916) 580-5130
Photo of Nora D Newman - Thriving Psych Services , EdS, NCSP, LEP
Thriving Psych Services
EdS, NCSP, LEP
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
We are compassionate educational psychologists, specializing in identifying learning differences, from dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia to ADHD, autism, and intellectual disability.
We are Nora and Alec, here to assist you in navigating your child's path towards psychological well-being and addressing any academic challenges they may be facing. We bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to every evaluation and counseling session. Our aim is to uncover your child's unique strengths, unravel their challenges, and pave the way for their success. But our commitment extends beyond assessments; we are also deeply invested in nurturing the emotional well-being of adolescents.
We are compassionate educational psychologists, specializing in identifying learning differences, from dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia to ADHD, autism, and intellectual disability.
We are Nora and Alec, here to assist you in navigating your child's path towards psychological well-being and addressing any academic challenges they may be facing. We bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to every evaluation and counseling session. Our aim is to uncover your child's unique strengths, unravel their challenges, and pave the way for their success. But our commitment extends beyond assessments; we are also deeply invested in nurturing the emotional well-being of adolescents.
(279) 300-1342 View (279) 300-1342
Photo of Julia McCormick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia McCormick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I use an eclectic approach to working with my clients in a holistic way. It’s important for me to meet my clients where they are and figure out how we want to move forward together in our sessions. How we think about our challenges in life has a strong impact on how we respond to them.
I use an eclectic approach to working with my clients in a holistic way. It’s important for me to meet my clients where they are and figure out how we want to move forward together in our sessions. How we think about our challenges in life has a strong impact on how we respond to them.
(916) 659-8374 View (916) 659-8374
Photo of Jamie Pedersen, LPCC, PPSC, NCC, Counselor
Jamie Pedersen
Counselor, LPCC, PPSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I see children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy who are struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life cycle challenges, and trauma. At times the way people try to cope with and manage their past or present difficulties create additional barriers to feeling good, and fulfilling their hopes and goals. As a conscientious, professional, and compassionate clinician, I strive to provide a therapeutic relationship in which together we can think about, understand and help you work through those feelings and thoughts that are troubling, confusing and worrisome, and are perhaps getting in your way.
I see children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy who are struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life cycle challenges, and trauma. At times the way people try to cope with and manage their past or present difficulties create additional barriers to feeling good, and fulfilling their hopes and goals. As a conscientious, professional, and compassionate clinician, I strive to provide a therapeutic relationship in which together we can think about, understand and help you work through those feelings and thoughts that are troubling, confusing and worrisome, and are perhaps getting in your way.
(916) 520-6276 View (916) 520-6276
Photo of Shanell Niemeyer, PPS , MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shanell Niemeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PPS , MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
My passion is to empower clients with practical tools and strategies so that they may thrive and reach their God-given potential! My speciality is working with pre-teens though young adulthood who may be struggling with stress, confidence, social skills, or managing a disability or ongoing illness. I especially enjoy working with those with IEP's and 504 Plans. I strive to build a foundation of trust and partnership as to empower clients to make change. Strategies discussed in session and routinely applied by the client are essential to client progress and goal achievement!
My passion is to empower clients with practical tools and strategies so that they may thrive and reach their God-given potential! My speciality is working with pre-teens though young adulthood who may be struggling with stress, confidence, social skills, or managing a disability or ongoing illness. I especially enjoy working with those with IEP's and 504 Plans. I strive to build a foundation of trust and partnership as to empower clients to make change. Strategies discussed in session and routinely applied by the client are essential to client progress and goal achievement!
(530) 451-0886 View (530) 451-0886
Photo of K. Aaron Rivera, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
K. Aaron Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked 20+ years with children and adults who have experienced mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, disharmonious/conflictual relationships, parenting/co-parenting, and early childhood trauma. My approach is simple: Meet people where they are at from a compassionate, non-judgmental, and honest perspective. I use a collection of therapeutic techniques specific to the needs of the person, and my underlying philosophy is to facilitate conversations that evoke critical thinking so that people can master the skills necessary to resolve their own issues.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked 20+ years with children and adults who have experienced mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, disharmonious/conflictual relationships, parenting/co-parenting, and early childhood trauma. My approach is simple: Meet people where they are at from a compassionate, non-judgmental, and honest perspective. I use a collection of therapeutic techniques specific to the needs of the person, and my underlying philosophy is to facilitate conversations that evoke critical thinking so that people can master the skills necessary to resolve their own issues.
(916) 237-1621 View (916) 237-1621
Photo of Pali Gill, PhD, LMFT, NCC, PPS-SC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pali Gill
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCC, PPS-SC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
As a therapist, I believe I can work with most situations because I am eager to learn from you, to research, and to problem solve with you for the best solutions regarding your current need for therapy. I believe I am astute at assisting missed possibilities or blinders that might be hindering you and your ability to live the life you know is possible. This can be related to uprooting past traumas, coping with current stressors, or the uncertainty of developing your life purpose. I listen carefully to assist with ruptured relationships, strained life circumstances, hindered growth, and the grief and loss that comes from these hurts.
As a therapist, I believe I can work with most situations because I am eager to learn from you, to research, and to problem solve with you for the best solutions regarding your current need for therapy. I believe I am astute at assisting missed possibilities or blinders that might be hindering you and your ability to live the life you know is possible. This can be related to uprooting past traumas, coping with current stressors, or the uncertainty of developing your life purpose. I listen carefully to assist with ruptured relationships, strained life circumstances, hindered growth, and the grief and loss that comes from these hurts.
(916) 866-9446 View (916) 866-9446
Photo of Dr. Nicolette Bautista - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy at KAP Wellness, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy at KAP Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Our team specializes in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, where Ketamine is used in conjunction with therapy to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other conditions. A lot of research backs this cutting-edge treatment. If talk therapy, antidepressants, or other approaches did not reduce or eliminate your symptoms, please get in touch with us. Clients experience profound and transformational results with Ketamine. You can too!
Our team specializes in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, where Ketamine is used in conjunction with therapy to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other conditions. A lot of research backs this cutting-edge treatment. If talk therapy, antidepressants, or other approaches did not reduce or eliminate your symptoms, please get in touch with us. Clients experience profound and transformational results with Ketamine. You can too!
(916) 603-2247 View (916) 603-2247
Photo of Emma Kreuser, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emma Kreuser
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Emma has accumulated valuable experience in addressing a range of mental health concerns. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, substance abuse, life transitions, and codependency.
With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Emma has accumulated valuable experience in addressing a range of mental health concerns. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, substance abuse, life transitions, and codependency.
(916) 794-9506 View (916) 794-9506
1
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.