Autism Therapists in Lynwood, CA

Photo of Mara Snider, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mara Snider
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynwood, CA 90262
My focus has been on depression, anxiety, suicidal and self-harm behavior, grief/loss, divorce, autism, dementia, chronic pain, and disability.
Hello my name is Mara Snider. I am an MFT, CA Lic. 105397. I utilize a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy. I recognize the necessity of developing a safe relationship based on trust and non-judgmental response to meet your needs and honor your experience.
My focus has been on depression, anxiety, suicidal and self-harm behavior, grief/loss, divorce, autism, dementia, chronic pain, and disability.
Hello my name is Mara Snider. I am an MFT, CA Lic. 105397. I utilize a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy. I recognize the necessity of developing a safe relationship based on trust and non-judgmental response to meet your needs and honor your experience.
(951) 878-9870 View (951) 878-9870
Photo of Patricia Caldera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Caldera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynwood, CA 90262
Patricia Caldera LMFT, I have experience working with variety of individuals/groups. I offer an eclectic approach to treatment that seeks to meet you where you are at in your journey and personal growth. I would like to work with teenagers and young adults. The theoretical approach I utilize are attachment, cognitive, behavioral and dialectic therapy. I enjoy helping people discover ways to handle challenging situations they are faced with. I assist in helping individuals use skills and tools to help them throughout their life is rewarding. I inquire with them what they would like to improve.
Patricia Caldera LMFT, I have experience working with variety of individuals/groups. I offer an eclectic approach to treatment that seeks to meet you where you are at in your journey and personal growth. I would like to work with teenagers and young adults. The theoretical approach I utilize are attachment, cognitive, behavioral and dialectic therapy. I enjoy helping people discover ways to handle challenging situations they are faced with. I assist in helping individuals use skills and tools to help them throughout their life is rewarding. I inquire with them what they would like to improve.
(323) 402-5409 View (323) 402-5409
Photo of Jay Lytton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Lytton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lynwood, CA 90262
My name is Jay Lytton. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Woodland Hills, CA and I work with clients statewide via telehealth in California. I primarily work with adults and some of the areas I specialize in are anxiety, stress, and depression. My approach to therapy is both evidence-based and eclectic in nature. Every person has a unique set of experiences and I tailor my approach to your individual needs and goals. Some of the theoretical approaches I utilize include motivational interviewing, CBT, and other strength-based modalities.
My name is Jay Lytton. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Woodland Hills, CA and I work with clients statewide via telehealth in California. I primarily work with adults and some of the areas I specialize in are anxiety, stress, and depression. My approach to therapy is both evidence-based and eclectic in nature. Every person has a unique set of experiences and I tailor my approach to your individual needs and goals. Some of the theoretical approaches I utilize include motivational interviewing, CBT, and other strength-based modalities.
(916) 794-9347 View (916) 794-9347
Photo of Damien Beauchemin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Damien Beauchemin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynwood, CA 90262
Hi there! My name is Damien Beauchemin, I am an LMFT that lives in Humboldt County California. I work with various clients, but I've done my best work with those who are nerdy, quirky, and fringe. I like to use solution-focused, cognitive, and forward-focused methods for therapy. I like to think that people can best work on moving beyond their issues and focus on making the best tomorrow they can. There are a fair amount of questions on a person's background, what we can work on together, goals to be addressed, and likely a few bad jokes.
Hi there! My name is Damien Beauchemin, I am an LMFT that lives in Humboldt County California. I work with various clients, but I've done my best work with those who are nerdy, quirky, and fringe. I like to use solution-focused, cognitive, and forward-focused methods for therapy. I like to think that people can best work on moving beyond their issues and focus on making the best tomorrow they can. There are a fair amount of questions on a person's background, what we can work on together, goals to be addressed, and likely a few bad jokes.
(747) 298-6767 View (747) 298-6767
Photo of Jose Gomez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynwood, CA 90262
Hello, I am Jose Xipe Gomez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to join you on your recovery path to heal from what life challenges brings us. The hardest journey is the one you take from your head to your heart. The Healing Journey is found in the path leading back from your heart to your head. Your wellness is found in the continuous flow of honoring both your thoughts and feelings. I work with people from all walks of life, children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I am able to serve monolingual Spanish speaking people. I am comfortable in treating all human conditions including severe mental illness.
Hello, I am Jose Xipe Gomez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to join you on your recovery path to heal from what life challenges brings us. The hardest journey is the one you take from your head to your heart. The Healing Journey is found in the path leading back from your heart to your head. Your wellness is found in the continuous flow of honoring both your thoughts and feelings. I work with people from all walks of life, children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I am able to serve monolingual Spanish speaking people. I am comfortable in treating all human conditions including severe mental illness.
(805) 572-6948 View (805) 572-6948

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Teratsuyan - Prime Behavioral Solutions Inc, MS, BCBA
Prime Behavioral Solutions Inc
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
We provide home-based behavioral health treatment to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Speech Delay sand other developmental delays. Our practice is evidence-based and is derived from principles of applied behavioral analysis. We understand that each family is unique, and we are very respectful to the families’ culture and values. Treatment plans that we create are also unique and sensitive to meet the families’ life experience and expectations. Our service is driven by giving each client the Prime Behavioral Solutions Inc experience!
We provide home-based behavioral health treatment to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Speech Delay sand other developmental delays. Our practice is evidence-based and is derived from principles of applied behavioral analysis. We understand that each family is unique, and we are very respectful to the families’ culture and values. Treatment plans that we create are also unique and sensitive to meet the families’ life experience and expectations. Our service is driven by giving each client the Prime Behavioral Solutions Inc experience!
(323) 366-3270 View (323) 366-3270
Photo of Dennis Mullenix - Mullenix Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mullenix Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dennis Mullenix, an LMFT with a heartfelt dedication to supporting those with Autism and ADHD as well as their families. With over 14 years of experience in the field, I bring a unique perspective as both an adult with late diagnosed AuDHD and as a father of a child who also lives with AuDHD. I deeply understand the challenges and strengths associated with these conditions. I specialize in helping those facing the complexities of Autism, ADHD and AuDHD. Whether you're navigating communication barriers, relationship dynamics, workplace challenges, or personal growth goals, my approach is rooted in empathy.
Hello, I'm Dennis Mullenix, an LMFT with a heartfelt dedication to supporting those with Autism and ADHD as well as their families. With over 14 years of experience in the field, I bring a unique perspective as both an adult with late diagnosed AuDHD and as a father of a child who also lives with AuDHD. I deeply understand the challenges and strengths associated with these conditions. I specialize in helping those facing the complexities of Autism, ADHD and AuDHD. Whether you're navigating communication barriers, relationship dynamics, workplace challenges, or personal growth goals, my approach is rooted in empathy.
(909) 324-5218 View (909) 324-5218
Photo of Bonnie Landau Weed, LPCC, PPS
Bonnie Landau Weed
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90040  (Online Only)
I work with clients from 12 years to adulthood, with a specialty focused on neurodivergent individuals with autism, ADHD as well as adults struggling with social anxiety or life transitions.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, parents of neurodivergent kids, social anxiety, and midlife transitions. I believe counseling is more than sharing feelings; it is a collaborative exploration and solution-finding that empowers you to learn how to manage life stressors. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, honest, and direct. You can expect it to be goal-oriented, with plenty of space for processing emotions. I use a holistic approach, knowing that people learn and grow in different ways. We work as a team to heal old patterns and develop new skills. I offer Safe and Sound Protocol.
I work with clients from 12 years to adulthood, with a specialty focused on neurodivergent individuals with autism, ADHD as well as adults struggling with social anxiety or life transitions.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, parents of neurodivergent kids, social anxiety, and midlife transitions. I believe counseling is more than sharing feelings; it is a collaborative exploration and solution-finding that empowers you to learn how to manage life stressors. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, honest, and direct. You can expect it to be goal-oriented, with plenty of space for processing emotions. I use a holistic approach, knowing that people learn and grow in different ways. We work as a team to heal old patterns and develop new skills. I offer Safe and Sound Protocol.
(805) 262-8695 View (805) 262-8695
Photo of Eryn Reeder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eryn Reeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inglewood, CA 90301  (Online Only)
I provide services to individuals that are a part of the Autism Spectrum (however, I do not provide Autisms assessments).
You deserve to be seen, to be heard & to feel understood. I aim to support you in creating a safe space to explore your dreams, desires, wants, needs and challenges. I seek to co-create an empowering space for Black, POC, Queer and neurodivergent individuals. I come with deep understanding and empathy towards the unique challenges faced by those navigating intersections of race, gender, and sexual orientation. I am committed to providing compassionate and culturally competent care.
I provide services to individuals that are a part of the Autism Spectrum (however, I do not provide Autisms assessments).
You deserve to be seen, to be heard & to feel understood. I aim to support you in creating a safe space to explore your dreams, desires, wants, needs and challenges. I seek to co-create an empowering space for Black, POC, Queer and neurodivergent individuals. I come with deep understanding and empathy towards the unique challenges faced by those navigating intersections of race, gender, and sexual orientation. I am committed to providing compassionate and culturally competent care.
(916) 796-1327 View (916) 796-1327
Photo of Oscar A Donoso, PhD, Psychologist
Oscar A Donoso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Downey, CA 90241
I am research certified in administering, scoring and interpreting the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule -Second Edition (ADOS-2).
I specialize in conducting psychological assessments/testing and developmental assessments with early childhood age children (Birth - 5), school age children, adolescents and adults. I have expertise in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities, and adults seeking to reunify with their children. I take a family-centered and therapeutic approach to conducting psychological evaluations, providing evidence-based recommendations and treatment.
I am research certified in administering, scoring and interpreting the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule -Second Edition (ADOS-2).
I specialize in conducting psychological assessments/testing and developmental assessments with early childhood age children (Birth - 5), school age children, adolescents and adults. I have expertise in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities, and adults seeking to reunify with their children. I take a family-centered and therapeutic approach to conducting psychological evaluations, providing evidence-based recommendations and treatment.
(323) 378-3421 View (323) 378-3421
Photo of Jess Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist, LPC, NCC
Jess Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist
LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
(929) 800-8532 View (929) 800-8532
Photo of Eddie A Quintana, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eddie A Quintana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I have been humbled to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and with people of different diagnosis from addiction, suicide, depression, autism, anxiety, personality disorders, compulsion and psychotic disorders.
My Philosophy is simple, start where you are at in the process. My approach is to work with you and together we would develop goals and expectations on what you want to work on. It is a collaborative effort in order to help you make progress and sustain change once progress is made. Even though I'm seen as the professional, to me your're the professional of you're life and its my job to help guide you into a place where you feel comfortable. For further info please check out my website at quintanacounseling.com.
I have been humbled to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and with people of different diagnosis from addiction, suicide, depression, autism, anxiety, personality disorders, compulsion and psychotic disorders.
My Philosophy is simple, start where you are at in the process. My approach is to work with you and together we would develop goals and expectations on what you want to work on. It is a collaborative effort in order to help you make progress and sustain change once progress is made. Even though I'm seen as the professional, to me your're the professional of you're life and its my job to help guide you into a place where you feel comfortable. For further info please check out my website at quintanacounseling.com.
(858) 956-7836 View (858) 956-7836
Photo of Mojdeh Amani - Talk Therapy Mental Health Inc., LMFT, MA, BA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Talk Therapy Mental Health Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have experience in treating school-aged children who suffer from autism, ADHD and depression.
My approach is client-centered. I help clients who suffer from depression, anxiety and other issues. I have specialty training and numerous certificates in various modalities. I believe people who suffer from depression are dealing with grief and focus treatment accordingly.
I have experience in treating school-aged children who suffer from autism, ADHD and depression.
My approach is client-centered. I help clients who suffer from depression, anxiety and other issues. I have specialty training and numerous certificates in various modalities. I believe people who suffer from depression are dealing with grief and focus treatment accordingly.
(562) 210-0385 View (562) 210-0385
Photo of Dr. Hilary Adams, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Hilary Adams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90017
I have specialized training to provide assessment and treatment services for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Are you or your children or teens ready to make a change? Through short-term, problem-focused therapy, I can help your family with challenging behaviors (e.g., temper tantrums) or social and emotional issues (e.g, anxiety) within only a few months. With a warm and collaborative approach, I will address your problems and teach you and your child skills to practice in your daily life. I offer weekly individual sessions, parent training, social skills groups, and more. Feel empowered knowing you learned the skills to help your family!
I have specialized training to provide assessment and treatment services for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Are you or your children or teens ready to make a change? Through short-term, problem-focused therapy, I can help your family with challenging behaviors (e.g., temper tantrums) or social and emotional issues (e.g, anxiety) within only a few months. With a warm and collaborative approach, I will address your problems and teach you and your child skills to practice in your daily life. I offer weekly individual sessions, parent training, social skills groups, and more. Feel empowered knowing you learned the skills to help your family!
(323) 302-4832 View (323) 302-4832
Photo of Stacie Ashley-Williams, LCSW, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Ashley-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I am certified in UCLA PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills), I am also a Certified Autism Specialist and have extensive training in Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety/depression, repetitive thoughts/behaviors, social and/or communication challenges that impact functioning "in everyday life"? Do you have or suspect you may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, you have come to the right place. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social, communication challenges and who have or may have ASD. I assist clients with managing difficult emotions, self-care, building healthy coping, communication, and socialization skills to improve overall functioning.
I am certified in UCLA PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills), I am also a Certified Autism Specialist and have extensive training in Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety/depression, repetitive thoughts/behaviors, social and/or communication challenges that impact functioning "in everyday life"? Do you have or suspect you may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, you have come to the right place. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social, communication challenges and who have or may have ASD. I assist clients with managing difficult emotions, self-care, building healthy coping, communication, and socialization skills to improve overall functioning.
(424) 245-0913 View (424) 245-0913
Photo of Domonick K Green, LMFT, MA, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Domonick K Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism, relationship conflict, effective communication strategies, marriage counseling, mood disorders, anger management, coping strategies, for the children, adolescent and adult populations.
We all experience challenges in life. When those challenges seem insurmountable it’s beneficial to seek professional assistance. My passion & purpose is to help others set and attain their individual positive life goals. I've utilized a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients in finding healthier perceptions of themselves and strengthening positive relationships.
My experience includes working with anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism, relationship conflict, effective communication strategies, marriage counseling, mood disorders, anger management, coping strategies, for the children, adolescent and adult populations.
We all experience challenges in life. When those challenges seem insurmountable it’s beneficial to seek professional assistance. My passion & purpose is to help others set and attain their individual positive life goals. I've utilized a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients in finding healthier perceptions of themselves and strengthening positive relationships.
(310) 362-9160 View (310) 362-9160
Photo of Artemis Tegan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Artemis Tegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I specialize in the treatment of relational trauma. I also offer coaching & education in neurodiverse (Autism/ADHD) relationships. I provide you the proven evidence-based tools you need to relinquish addictions, calm your nervous system, mitigate anxiety & depression, and enjoy healthy relational engagement. For 28 years it has been my honor to help clients recover from trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger, sexual dysfunction, chemical dependency & neurodiverse relational challenges. I work with individuals, couples & families.
I specialize in the treatment of relational trauma. I also offer coaching & education in neurodiverse (Autism/ADHD) relationships. I provide you the proven evidence-based tools you need to relinquish addictions, calm your nervous system, mitigate anxiety & depression, and enjoy healthy relational engagement. For 28 years it has been my honor to help clients recover from trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger, sexual dysfunction, chemical dependency & neurodiverse relational challenges. I work with individuals, couples & families.
(424) 738-3562 View (424) 738-3562
Photo of Hailey Williford, LMSW, ASW
Hailey Williford
Associate Clinical Social Worker, LMSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm a neurodiverse therapist specializing in ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity work, OCD, religious trauma, and LGBTQ+ topics seeing clients via telehealth. I love working with those who are looking to set goals or are in a period of uncertainty. If you are someone who feels stuck, are in a transition phase of your life, or are looking for help navigating challenges, we can work together to find clarity. As a neurodiverse person myself, I take pride in creating a neurodiverse-affirming space for my clients, free from shame or judgement.
Hi there! I'm a neurodiverse therapist specializing in ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity work, OCD, religious trauma, and LGBTQ+ topics seeing clients via telehealth. I love working with those who are looking to set goals or are in a period of uncertainty. If you are someone who feels stuck, are in a transition phase of your life, or are looking for help navigating challenges, we can work together to find clarity. As a neurodiverse person myself, I take pride in creating a neurodiverse-affirming space for my clients, free from shame or judgement.
(408) 317-4105 View (408) 317-4105
Photo of Dariah Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dariah Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My caseload comprised of individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as individuals that are seeking support in grief/loss.
Welcome! I'm so glad that you're here. If you've ever felt "stuck," or that you don't have a next step or a sense of direction, I hear you. Life can be extremely unpredictable, and it causes us to feel like we're not prepared or equipped to handle the ebbs and flows of life. Not only do we have present life events, but we also have our past experiences and extraneous factors that are on this walk with us. Let's work together to create a space free of judgment. You deserve a healing space and the chance to create one within yourself. We'll work on permitting ourselves to experience our feelings fully and completely.
My caseload comprised of individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as individuals that are seeking support in grief/loss.
Welcome! I'm so glad that you're here. If you've ever felt "stuck," or that you don't have a next step or a sense of direction, I hear you. Life can be extremely unpredictable, and it causes us to feel like we're not prepared or equipped to handle the ebbs and flows of life. Not only do we have present life events, but we also have our past experiences and extraneous factors that are on this walk with us. Let's work together to create a space free of judgment. You deserve a healing space and the chance to create one within yourself. We'll work on permitting ourselves to experience our feelings fully and completely.
(562) 362-5752 View (562) 362-5752
Photo of Joanna Cain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanna Cain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
Hey there, I'm Joanna Cain, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in Los Angeles California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. With years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages, and different walks of life, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and autism that interfere with those relationships and daily life demands. Assisting clients to identify their own needs and providing them with the skills needed to achieve their goals is my approach.
Hey there, I'm Joanna Cain, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in Los Angeles California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. With years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages, and different walks of life, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and autism that interfere with those relationships and daily life demands. Assisting clients to identify their own needs and providing them with the skills needed to achieve their goals is my approach.
(951) 724-3972 View (951) 724-3972

See more therapy options for Lynwood

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.