Therapists in Hawthorne, CA
![Photo of Robenson Dorvil, MA, AMFT128, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/386ab471-310c-4606-8cac-52416d54943e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mr. Robenson Dorvil is a Psy. D. candidate at The Chicago School who practices individual and family therapy under his supervisors for almost 4 years, specializing working with couple, children and adolescents. He provides school-based counseling, group session and support services for many children in elementary, middle, and high school in the areas of Southern California. He works closely with his supervisors to provide support and treatment in developing behavior performance management for children in academic, social, emotional and other personal issues. He is diligent, great listener, and patient in working with clients.
Mr. Robenson Dorvil is a Psy. D. candidate at The Chicago School who practices individual and family therapy under his supervisors for almost 4 years, specializing working with couple, children and adolescents. He provides school-based counseling, group session and support services for many children in elementary, middle, and high school in the areas of Southern California. He works closely with his supervisors to provide support and treatment in developing behavior performance management for children in academic, social, emotional and other personal issues. He is diligent, great listener, and patient in working with clients.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Cynthia Haartman - Cynthia Haartman: Psychotherapy, EMDR, Sex Therapy, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0ff47b2-56d8-4e2f-9ed4-2b2274a24b55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Haartman: Psychotherapy, EMDR, Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and also Certified in EMDR Therapy. My primary focus includes: intimacy and sexuality concerns, pelvic pain, fear and anxiety around intimacy, stress, trauma, anxiety, self worth, guilt and shame, neurodivergence - specifically ADHD and high masking Autism, chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as medical trauma, and manifestation of stress physically in the body. I am kink affirming and knowledgable, LGBTQ+/sexual and gender minority inclusive, and a sex positive provider.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and also Certified in EMDR Therapy. My primary focus includes: intimacy and sexuality concerns, pelvic pain, fear and anxiety around intimacy, stress, trauma, anxiety, self worth, guilt and shame, neurodivergence - specifically ADHD and high masking Autism, chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as medical trauma, and manifestation of stress physically in the body. I am kink affirming and knowledgable, LGBTQ+/sexual and gender minority inclusive, and a sex positive provider.
![Photo of Valerie Reich, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea8a4b4d-1817-453a-85c7-4d03d7002354/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232
My clients come to session for a variety of reasons including substance abuse, relationship issues (romantic & platonic), Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, PTSD, LGBTQIA2s+ Care, Transitions, grief, life changes, struggles with motivation, and personality disorders.
Now Accepting New Clients! My best-fit client is someone who is open to exploring their own healing. Are you burnt-out on life, career, and/or relationships? Are you going through a transition or experiencing sudden change? Have substances, sex, or shopping begun to take up too much of your time? Do you feel your relationships are lacking in some way, or things are feeling tense and difficult? My best fit-clients experience all of these and more, and are ready to make some changes in their lives.
My clients come to session for a variety of reasons including substance abuse, relationship issues (romantic & platonic), Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, PTSD, LGBTQIA2s+ Care, Transitions, grief, life changes, struggles with motivation, and personality disorders.
Now Accepting New Clients! My best-fit client is someone who is open to exploring their own healing. Are you burnt-out on life, career, and/or relationships? Are you going through a transition or experiencing sudden change? Have substances, sex, or shopping begun to take up too much of your time? Do you feel your relationships are lacking in some way, or things are feeling tense and difficult? My best fit-clients experience all of these and more, and are ready to make some changes in their lives.
![Photo of Erin Rieger, LMFT, LEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3b59a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Rieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
I have successfully worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma, Autism, ADHD and educational difficulties.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
I have successfully worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma, Autism, ADHD and educational difficulties.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
![Photo of Jackie Saldana, MA , AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64be0ef9-6c9d-4ead-a292-8357a7c653ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie Saldana
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA , AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
Navigating different life transitions is challenging and often a struggle to work through on your own. it can be difficult to manage emotions, relationships, stress, and other mental health concerns. I want to support you in becoming the best version of yourself and provide a safe space for you to explore your identity. I have experience working with a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, family conflict, and social issues. I use a culturally sensitive approach to work with those who are struggling with emotional expression and internal motivation.
Navigating different life transitions is challenging and often a struggle to work through on your own. it can be difficult to manage emotions, relationships, stress, and other mental health concerns. I want to support you in becoming the best version of yourself and provide a safe space for you to explore your identity. I have experience working with a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, family conflict, and social issues. I use a culturally sensitive approach to work with those who are struggling with emotional expression and internal motivation.
![Photo of Patrick Brian Dickey, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44066dc1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Brian Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245 (Online Only)
I have experience helping children, adolescents, adults and Autism Spectrum.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
I have experience helping children, adolescents, adults and Autism Spectrum.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
![Photo of Linda Thompson - Dr. Linda Thompson, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41841fcc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
![Photo of Tai Finley, MS, AMFT, #131869, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebfa9511-a34b-4814-83ab-037b70e7be73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tai Finley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, #131869
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035 (Online Only)
The majority of my practice focuses on working with Black, Latinx, and people of color struggling with anxiety, ADHD, Depression and Complex PTSD. I see women, men, teenagers and children. We explore identity development, fear, culture, behavioral health and family conflict. My approach is compassionate, warm, honest and structured. As I continue my journey has a therapist I am noticing an interesting shift in the ways we as humans want to show up in our lives, and I want to give you a space and permission to discover who you really are.
The majority of my practice focuses on working with Black, Latinx, and people of color struggling with anxiety, ADHD, Depression and Complex PTSD. I see women, men, teenagers and children. We explore identity development, fear, culture, behavioral health and family conflict. My approach is compassionate, warm, honest and structured. As I continue my journey has a therapist I am noticing an interesting shift in the ways we as humans want to show up in our lives, and I want to give you a space and permission to discover who you really are.
![Photo of Mariya Kriv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d466d07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Sarah Finch, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43806942-4460-45f4-b83e-eb1b636be397/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Finch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I’m a patient, attentive, neurodivergent human, fueled by deep curiosity and compassion ready to walk with you through any life stage. Through my own personal work in depth therapy, 10+ years in the field, and formidable life experiences, I have learned that we’re all on a unique journey towards tending to parts of ourselves that have been mistreated or left behind by adverse past experiences. As an individual and a provider, I have a strong passion for healing. I believe in the power of restorative relationships, that everyone possesses the ability to rewrite unhelpful life narratives, and the strength to transform their life.
I’m a patient, attentive, neurodivergent human, fueled by deep curiosity and compassion ready to walk with you through any life stage. Through my own personal work in depth therapy, 10+ years in the field, and formidable life experiences, I have learned that we’re all on a unique journey towards tending to parts of ourselves that have been mistreated or left behind by adverse past experiences. As an individual and a provider, I have a strong passion for healing. I believe in the power of restorative relationships, that everyone possesses the ability to rewrite unhelpful life narratives, and the strength to transform their life.
![Photo of Nick Ulrich, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdbd975e-1f13-4760-92e5-19f53b7b4db1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Ulrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
![Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43765962-0a23-416f-8a5d-45ec148fed43/2/320x400.png)
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
![Photo of Justin Ray Carnate, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00c4265d-2ff6-4d9e-a558-c99b95352b4d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Ray Carnate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001 (Online Only)
As a trauma-informed systemic therapist, I take a collaborative and humanistic approach as I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. To better understand an individual's worldview, meeting them where they are, understanding their perspectives, and presenting issues that have brought them to seek therapy is vital. Connecting with people through a humanistic approach allows us to comprehend one another through fundamental connections we share, such as emotions and sensations. Through collaboration and authenticity, I utilize myself as a tool through dynamic conversations and applying skills to encourage change.
As a trauma-informed systemic therapist, I take a collaborative and humanistic approach as I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. To better understand an individual's worldview, meeting them where they are, understanding their perspectives, and presenting issues that have brought them to seek therapy is vital. Connecting with people through a humanistic approach allows us to comprehend one another through fundamental connections we share, such as emotions and sensations. Through collaboration and authenticity, I utilize myself as a tool through dynamic conversations and applying skills to encourage change.
![Photo of Patricia Anderson - Bridges Therapy Group of CA, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1517c729-eb67-479c-bdc5-c82f74b6f7a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745 (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
![Photo of For More Information - Crossroads Institute, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5f055c-bcd6-494a-b2af-3522e3b84c65/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
![Photo of Anthony Bean - Geek Therapeutics, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c23834b4-38b7-4b5b-acc1-9fec2426e574/1/320x400.jpeg)
Geeks, by traditional definition, are passionate about anthologies and characters from a variety of fictional, fantasy, and virtual formats that are sometimes niche or unpopular, creating feelings of relatedness towards avatar experiences in an often lonely life. . However, with the rise of popular media over the past several years, (e.g. Big Bang Theory, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Marvel’s Avengers, Anime, etc.) self-identification as a “geek” or “nerd” has become more mainstream. We practice this type of therapy and welcome you to come and grow through the practice of Geek Therapy
Geeks, by traditional definition, are passionate about anthologies and characters from a variety of fictional, fantasy, and virtual formats that are sometimes niche or unpopular, creating feelings of relatedness towards avatar experiences in an often lonely life. . However, with the rise of popular media over the past several years, (e.g. Big Bang Theory, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Marvel’s Avengers, Anime, etc.) self-identification as a “geek” or “nerd” has become more mainstream. We practice this type of therapy and welcome you to come and grow through the practice of Geek Therapy
![Photo of Rocio Carrillo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66599e0e-c007-4db0-8d4d-eed9f83e0af4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rocio Carrillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi and welcome. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I have been practicing for 10 years in various settings. I work with children and adults who may be struggling with depression, trauma, or life transitions that are affecting their relationships or family. Most of my clients simply need a listening ear, a place to vent without being judged and to receive trustworthy, supportive, and constructive feedback.
Hi and welcome. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I have been practicing for 10 years in various settings. I work with children and adults who may be struggling with depression, trauma, or life transitions that are affecting their relationships or family. Most of my clients simply need a listening ear, a place to vent without being judged and to receive trustworthy, supportive, and constructive feedback.
![Photo of Margena Carter - Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70419f8b-3860-45a5-97ea-b11b09e9acc0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Danine Dean, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/283aa7a3-1dee-4291-a7c1-34485fba4e3d/3/320x400.jpeg)
A life transition experience can be positive or negative, planned or unexpected. Some transitions happen without warning, and they may be quite dramatic, as in cases of accidents, death, divorce, job loss, or serious illness. Other life transitions come from positive experiences such as getting married, going away to college, starting a new job, moving to a new city. Even though events like these are usually planned and anticipated, they can be just as life-altering as the unexpected events. Whether positive or negative, life transitions cause us to leave behind the familiar and force us to adjust to new ways of living.
A life transition experience can be positive or negative, planned or unexpected. Some transitions happen without warning, and they may be quite dramatic, as in cases of accidents, death, divorce, job loss, or serious illness. Other life transitions come from positive experiences such as getting married, going away to college, starting a new job, moving to a new city. Even though events like these are usually planned and anticipated, they can be just as life-altering as the unexpected events. Whether positive or negative, life transitions cause us to leave behind the familiar and force us to adjust to new ways of living.
![Photo of Stephanie Salas Gonzales, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ad5f63f-e7ea-45fe-bbfb-584586a0be62/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Salas Gonzales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90502 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am here to support you on this journey to wellness. My passion for helping people is rooted in my desire to be a source of hope for others who may be struggling with their mental health. I understand that when you feel lost or stuck in life, it can be difficult to get back on track—but I believe that you can find your way again. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental. I believe that change is possible when we have the right support system in place.I have extensive experience working with a variety of populations, including individuals, adolescents, families, domestic violence survivors, and the LGBTQ+ population.
Welcome! I am here to support you on this journey to wellness. My passion for helping people is rooted in my desire to be a source of hope for others who may be struggling with their mental health. I understand that when you feel lost or stuck in life, it can be difficult to get back on track—but I believe that you can find your way again. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental. I believe that change is possible when we have the right support system in place.I have extensive experience working with a variety of populations, including individuals, adolescents, families, domestic violence survivors, and the LGBTQ+ population.
See more therapy options for Hawthorne
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.