Autism Therapists in La Canada, CA

Photo of Andrew Jung, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Jung
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada, CA 91011
Individuals and families often go through moments where they struggle with issues that may seem too difficult to manage. Many of these moments exist due to an individual lacking skills to succeed or an individual not using the skills they possess in the most efficient way. My goal as a therapist is to work with you in providing you with a safe place to explore your struggles and work with you to develop skills that will allow you to overcome the difficult moments in your life.
Individuals and families often go through moments where they struggle with issues that may seem too difficult to manage. Many of these moments exist due to an individual lacking skills to succeed or an individual not using the skills they possess in the most efficient way. My goal as a therapist is to work with you in providing you with a safe place to explore your struggles and work with you to develop skills that will allow you to overcome the difficult moments in your life.
(818) 351-1633 View (818) 351-1633
Photo of David Lorentzen, PsyD, Psychologist
David Lorentzen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada, CA 91011
I am an experienced psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults, children, teens, and families. With adults, I help with life transitions, improve relationships with loved ones, overcome worries, sadness, and destructive habits, and build confidence. I am up-to-date with the research in treating depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, and adult ADD. With children, I help with ADHD, behavior problems, self-esteem issues, coping with major life transitions, and fighting within the family. If your child acts-out, seems distractible, or needs someone to talk to during difficult times, I can help.
I am an experienced psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults, children, teens, and families. With adults, I help with life transitions, improve relationships with loved ones, overcome worries, sadness, and destructive habits, and build confidence. I am up-to-date with the research in treating depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, and adult ADD. With children, I help with ADHD, behavior problems, self-esteem issues, coping with major life transitions, and fighting within the family. If your child acts-out, seems distractible, or needs someone to talk to during difficult times, I can help.
(818) 523-4628 View (818) 523-4628
Photo of Christopher M Thomson, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher M Thomson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011
I specialize in working with dually diagnosed individuals and their families with severe and persistent mental illnesses, such as Polysubstance Dependence, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Features, Bipolar Disorder, and Acute Anxiety Disorders. I have always had a special interest in working with family and couples, especially where one or both suffer from severe mental illness. I am on staff at several local inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, and help facilitate hospital admissions in a sensitive and professional manner. I offer individual and family community interventions as needed. I also help professionals coping with workplace stress.
I specialize in working with dually diagnosed individuals and their families with severe and persistent mental illnesses, such as Polysubstance Dependence, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Features, Bipolar Disorder, and Acute Anxiety Disorders. I have always had a special interest in working with family and couples, especially where one or both suffer from severe mental illness. I am on staff at several local inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, and help facilitate hospital admissions in a sensitive and professional manner. I offer individual and family community interventions as needed. I also help professionals coping with workplace stress.
(562) 261-5888 View (562) 261-5888
Photo of Miya Erickson, MSW, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Miya Erickson
Psychologist, MSW, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada, CA 91011
Are you feeling stuck in your life patterns or healing from old wounds? Therapy is about finding the right fit with someone you trust. I recognize the importance of beginning where you are at through collaboration, empathy, and guided self-examination. I will help you develop new coping skills, healthy boundaries, and turn insight into action. The most courageous moments provide the greatest growth. Collectively, we can add more tools to your toolbox. Through introspection, directive depth work, and a strong working relationship, I will listen to each important detail of your life story and build upon your strengths and abilities.
Are you feeling stuck in your life patterns or healing from old wounds? Therapy is about finding the right fit with someone you trust. I recognize the importance of beginning where you are at through collaboration, empathy, and guided self-examination. I will help you develop new coping skills, healthy boundaries, and turn insight into action. The most courageous moments provide the greatest growth. Collectively, we can add more tools to your toolbox. Through introspection, directive depth work, and a strong working relationship, I will listen to each important detail of your life story and build upon your strengths and abilities.
(626) 671-4059 View (626) 671-4059
Photo of Holly A. Freeling, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly A. Freeling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011
Are you ready to take the next step toward changing your life? As a dynamic and innovative therapist, I blend research-driven techniques with creative strategies to accelerate your progress. My approach is personal, energetic, and empathetic, ensuring you feel supported as you share your thoughts and feelings in complete confidence. I’ll clearly explain each step of our process, empowering you to use tools effectively and see faster results. Together, we’ll cultivate a genuine and meaningful therapeutic relationship to help you achieve your goals.
Are you ready to take the next step toward changing your life? As a dynamic and innovative therapist, I blend research-driven techniques with creative strategies to accelerate your progress. My approach is personal, energetic, and empathetic, ensuring you feel supported as you share your thoughts and feelings in complete confidence. I’ll clearly explain each step of our process, empowering you to use tools effectively and see faster results. Together, we’ll cultivate a genuine and meaningful therapeutic relationship to help you achieve your goals.
(626) 376-3098 View (626) 376-3098
Photo of Danielle Palomares, MA, AMFT
Danielle Palomares
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
La Canada, CA 91011
Are you feeling unseen or unheard in your relationships? Do you often find yourself trapped in an internal tug-of-war with conflicting internal voices or parts? Do you often feel like the black sheep of your family or "the problem"? These experiences can be deeply isolating and spark feelings of hopelessness. If you're currently grappling with the overwhelming impact of trauma, shame, conflict, stress, or pain without a supportive ally by your side, I would be honored to accompany you, your partner/s, family, and children on this transformative journey toward healing and growth.
Are you feeling unseen or unheard in your relationships? Do you often find yourself trapped in an internal tug-of-war with conflicting internal voices or parts? Do you often feel like the black sheep of your family or "the problem"? These experiences can be deeply isolating and spark feelings of hopelessness. If you're currently grappling with the overwhelming impact of trauma, shame, conflict, stress, or pain without a supportive ally by your side, I would be honored to accompany you, your partner/s, family, and children on this transformative journey toward healing and growth.
(323) 524-2966 View (323) 524-2966

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrea Price, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Andrea Price
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I work with kids and teens with issues related to: ADHD, autism, OCD, phobias, depression, anxiety, giftedness, 2e, social skills, chronic illness, divorce, school refusal and encopresis.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have many years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents and families when working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework.
I work with kids and teens with issues related to: ADHD, autism, OCD, phobias, depression, anxiety, giftedness, 2e, social skills, chronic illness, divorce, school refusal and encopresis.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have many years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents and families when working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework.
(323) 894-0263 View (323) 894-0263
Photo of Ben Russell, PsyD, Psychologist
Ben Russell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
As a psychotherapist and consultant for autistic adults and their service teams, I support individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and service providers. My practice focuses on fostering independence, enhancing communication, nurturing relationships, and promoting self-determination. I believe in everyone's inherent worth and potential, emphasizing empowerment, self-advocacy, and practical skills to improve quality of life. Whether you are an autistic adult, a family member seeking guidance, or a service provider aiming to better support your clients, I'm here to help.
As a psychotherapist and consultant for autistic adults and their service teams, I support individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and service providers. My practice focuses on fostering independence, enhancing communication, nurturing relationships, and promoting self-determination. I believe in everyone's inherent worth and potential, emphasizing empowerment, self-advocacy, and practical skills to improve quality of life. Whether you are an autistic adult, a family member seeking guidance, or a service provider aiming to better support your clients, I'm here to help.
(323) 894-2807 View (323) 894-2807
Photo of Sydney Petersen, MS LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sydney Petersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Sydney Petersen, a trauma-informed, EMDR-trained, and neurodiverse-affirming Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in working with individuals and parents of individuals with a variety of diverse needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury survivor and others. Whether you are processing a new diagnosis or a new life stage in your life or your child’s life, the load you carry can be overwhelming. Much of what you do goes unseen, unheard, and not fully understood by most, even your inner circles. You carry so much. How do you make sense of all of the things you do, see and hold.
Hi, I’m Sydney Petersen, a trauma-informed, EMDR-trained, and neurodiverse-affirming Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in working with individuals and parents of individuals with a variety of diverse needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury survivor and others. Whether you are processing a new diagnosis or a new life stage in your life or your child’s life, the load you carry can be overwhelming. Much of what you do goes unseen, unheard, and not fully understood by most, even your inner circles. You carry so much. How do you make sense of all of the things you do, see and hold.
(818) 308-1703 View (818) 308-1703
Photo of Dr. Jade Starleaf, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jade Starleaf
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
Dr. Jade Starleaf is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Her clinical expertise lies in working with neurodiversity. More specifically individuals with Autism, OCD, ADHD, and other anxiety related disorders. Dr. Jade (as her patients call her) is also skilled at providing comprehensive diagnostic assessments for Autism in children, adolescents, and young adults. Additionally, she runs a teen (ages 15-18) and young adult group (19-22) for those who are looking to connect more deeply with peers and process stress around school, work, and social relationships.
Dr. Jade Starleaf is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Her clinical expertise lies in working with neurodiversity. More specifically individuals with Autism, OCD, ADHD, and other anxiety related disorders. Dr. Jade (as her patients call her) is also skilled at providing comprehensive diagnostic assessments for Autism in children, adolescents, and young adults. Additionally, she runs a teen (ages 15-18) and young adult group (19-22) for those who are looking to connect more deeply with peers and process stress around school, work, and social relationships.
(818) 434-8423 View (818) 434-8423
Photo of Chrystal C Maher - Our Kids Developmental Services, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Our Kids Developmental Services
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
(626) 382-7129 View (626) 382-7129
Photo of Sabrina Somani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sabrina Somani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
In addition, I have over 20 years of working with children diagnosed with Autism and am able to provide support to parents and siblings.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
In addition, I have over 20 years of working with children diagnosed with Autism and am able to provide support to parents and siblings.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
(310) 870-3164 View (310) 870-3164
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montrose, CA 91020
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) 798-9774 View (323) 798-9774
Photo of Richard LaBrie, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard LaBrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
(626) 765-3076 View (626) 765-3076
Photo of Adelina Matevosyan, PhD, Psychologist
Adelina Matevosyan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
(818) 287-0300 View (818) 287-0300
Photo of Katie Enney - Thrive Therapy Collective, PsyD, Psychologist
Thrive Therapy Collective
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
autism and ADHD), trauma, health concerns, and identity issues among others.
We all encounter experiences in our lives which will challenge us, and sometimes cause us pain. Sometimes we are challenged by our relationships, previous trauma, bad experiences, depression or anxiety. We can make the choice to work through these events and grow even when things are hard and confusing. Our goal at Thrive Therapy Collective (TTC) is not only to provide a safe place for you to explore your struggles, but also to give you objective feedback and guidance to help you improve your life. Our trained therapists will work with you to create an approach to help you with your unique situation.
autism and ADHD), trauma, health concerns, and identity issues among others.
We all encounter experiences in our lives which will challenge us, and sometimes cause us pain. Sometimes we are challenged by our relationships, previous trauma, bad experiences, depression or anxiety. We can make the choice to work through these events and grow even when things are hard and confusing. Our goal at Thrive Therapy Collective (TTC) is not only to provide a safe place for you to explore your struggles, but also to give you objective feedback and guidance to help you improve your life. Our trained therapists will work with you to create an approach to help you with your unique situation.
(818) 405-9110 View (818) 405-9110
Photo of Lindsay Snaer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lindsay Snaer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91208
Animating Principle is where critical thinking meets compassion! As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Animating Principle, I pride myself on utilizing my sharp clinical skills to deliver compassionate therapy in a creative, non-clinical setting. I provide therapy to all ages on a wide range of presenting issues using an integrative approach. I also facilitate groups, and offer mentoring and coping classes for youth. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused.
Animating Principle is where critical thinking meets compassion! As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Animating Principle, I pride myself on utilizing my sharp clinical skills to deliver compassionate therapy in a creative, non-clinical setting. I provide therapy to all ages on a wide range of presenting issues using an integrative approach. I also facilitate groups, and offer mentoring and coping classes for youth. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused.
(818) 351-1874 View (818) 351-1874
Photo of Rui Cang 仓蕊, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rui Cang 仓蕊
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Rui is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma, developmental and attachment trauma, dissociative disorders and reactions to other stressful events in teens and adults. Rui is a certified somatic therapist combining Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, as well as Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Rui's approach is holistic (mind-body-spirit), non-violent, mindfulness-based, and attachment-based, as well as based on Interpersonal Neurobiology which is also the foundation of Rui's parenting consultation and coaching practice.
Rui is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma, developmental and attachment trauma, dissociative disorders and reactions to other stressful events in teens and adults. Rui is a certified somatic therapist combining Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, as well as Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Rui's approach is holistic (mind-body-spirit), non-violent, mindfulness-based, and attachment-based, as well as based on Interpersonal Neurobiology which is also the foundation of Rui's parenting consultation and coaching practice.
(310) 736-4836 View (310) 736-4836
Photo of Britney Holthouser - Animating Principle's Workshop, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Animating Principle's Workshop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
Animating Principle's Workshop is where compassion and critical thinking meet. From the neurodivergent, whimsical, creative minds of Animating Principle's husband and wife duo, Britney and Sean, the Workshop is a one-of-a-kind space that offers a variety of individual and group personal enrichment and therapy services. The Workshop's unique classes promote positive socialization, psychoeducation, and healthy coping for children, teens, and parents. Art, Lego, STEM, and Disney-themed coping classes available, as well as traditional, play, and art therapy for all ages.
Animating Principle's Workshop is where compassion and critical thinking meet. From the neurodivergent, whimsical, creative minds of Animating Principle's husband and wife duo, Britney and Sean, the Workshop is a one-of-a-kind space that offers a variety of individual and group personal enrichment and therapy services. The Workshop's unique classes promote positive socialization, psychoeducation, and healthy coping for children, teens, and parents. Art, Lego, STEM, and Disney-themed coping classes available, as well as traditional, play, and art therapy for all ages.
(747) 302-4636 View (747) 302-4636
Photo of Erika L Poladian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erika L Poladian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I provide psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am invested in helping clients attain a better quality of life characterized by peace of mind and the ability to manage difficult thoughts and feelings using self-compassion and a knowledge of the inner workings of the mind. My main priority is to provide clients with evidenced based, customized care tailored to their specific needs and individual differences. I am a firm believer in the fact that a paramount basis for healing within the therapy setting is the bond, trust, and alliance between client and therapist.
I provide psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am invested in helping clients attain a better quality of life characterized by peace of mind and the ability to manage difficult thoughts and feelings using self-compassion and a knowledge of the inner workings of the mind. My main priority is to provide clients with evidenced based, customized care tailored to their specific needs and individual differences. I am a firm believer in the fact that a paramount basis for healing within the therapy setting is the bond, trust, and alliance between client and therapist.
(626) 243-7749 View (626) 243-7749
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.