Autism Therapists in Manhattan Beach, CA

Photo of Domonick K Green, LMFT, MA, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Domonick K Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266  (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 Albert A Knapp Jr, PsyD, BCBA-D, RPT-S, Psychologist
Albert A Knapp Jr
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I specialize in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma.
I enjoy working with children, tweens, teenagers, and young adults, from a Play Therapy and CBT perspective.
I specialize in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma.
I enjoy working with children, tweens, teenagers, and young adults, from a Play Therapy and CBT perspective.
(310) 340-7289 View (310) 340-7289
Photo of Jonathan Artigue, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Artigue
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Jonathan earned his master’s in marriage and family therapy at Cal State Dominguez Hills, after which Jonathan was drawn to work with children and families managing challenges associated with autism and other neurodiversity. After shifting to working with adults in both residential and outpatient treatment for addiction and co-occurring challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and many other psychiatric diagnoses, Jonathan developed his mindfulness-based approach to therapy further.
Jonathan earned his master’s in marriage and family therapy at Cal State Dominguez Hills, after which Jonathan was drawn to work with children and families managing challenges associated with autism and other neurodiversity. After shifting to working with adults in both residential and outpatient treatment for addiction and co-occurring challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and many other psychiatric diagnoses, Jonathan developed his mindfulness-based approach to therapy further.
(310) 953-4421 View (310) 953-4421
Photo of Antanissha Tyler, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Antanissha Tyler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I have extensive experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD and Autism.
If your child or teen is struggling and you're not sure how to help them, having a safe place to explore with a trained professional can help you both. Sometimes when you're in the middle of everything, it's hard to really see. You have such intimate, valuable observations as a parent, but adding that to the objective, experience informed information from a professional can bring the big picture together and organize everything so there's a clear path forward.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD and Autism.
If your child or teen is struggling and you're not sure how to help them, having a safe place to explore with a trained professional can help you both. Sometimes when you're in the middle of everything, it's hard to really see. You have such intimate, valuable observations as a parent, but adding that to the objective, experience informed information from a professional can bring the big picture together and organize everything so there's a clear path forward.
(310) 692-7604 View (310) 692-7604
Photo of Dr. Elana Jablon, PhD
Dr. Elana Jablon
Registered Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Her assessment specialties focus on complex diagnosis and neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Specific Learning Disabilities.
As of 5/24, no in-person spots available. At Q Psychology Group, Dr. Jablon utilizes a variety of tools, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) for couples, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). She also teaches relevant behavioral techniques to parents and utilizes psychodynamic techniques focused on increasing clients’ self-awareness and recognizing their behavioral patterns. She specializes in mood disorders, personality disorders, specific phobias, romantic relational problems, parent-child relational problems, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Her assessment specialties focus on complex diagnosis and neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Specific Learning Disabilities.
As of 5/24, no in-person spots available. At Q Psychology Group, Dr. Jablon utilizes a variety of tools, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) for couples, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). She also teaches relevant behavioral techniques to parents and utilizes psychodynamic techniques focused on increasing clients’ self-awareness and recognizing their behavioral patterns. She specializes in mood disorders, personality disorders, specific phobias, romantic relational problems, parent-child relational problems, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
(310) 742-0683 View (310) 742-0683
Photo of Mark Hurrell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Hurrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I also have a credential in school psychology and work with parents of children or adolescents with ADHD, autism, behavior problems, learning disabilities, mental illness and other challenges to have a more harmonious home.
My successful client is interested in bettering themselves, is open to suggestions and is willing to work hard to improve their life. I would enjoy assisting you in bringing joy, adventure and romance back to your relationship. Are you stuck in a job where you feel unfulfilled? I can help you create a position, or market yourself to find satisfaction in your job. Is depression or anxiety hindering you from doing things you enjoy? You're likely to respond to my CBT based program to assist you in recognizing patterns that are holding you prisoner and keeping you from your dreams.
I also have a credential in school psychology and work with parents of children or adolescents with ADHD, autism, behavior problems, learning disabilities, mental illness and other challenges to have a more harmonious home.
My successful client is interested in bettering themselves, is open to suggestions and is willing to work hard to improve their life. I would enjoy assisting you in bringing joy, adventure and romance back to your relationship. Are you stuck in a job where you feel unfulfilled? I can help you create a position, or market yourself to find satisfaction in your job. Is depression or anxiety hindering you from doing things you enjoy? You're likely to respond to my CBT based program to assist you in recognizing patterns that are holding you prisoner and keeping you from your dreams.
(424) 258-5092 View (424) 258-5092
Photo of Janet A Vivero, PhD, Psychologist
Janet A Vivero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Waitlist for new clients
, Autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities, etc.
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration. Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
, Autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities, etc.
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration. Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
(562) 282-9651 View (562) 282-9651
Photo of Lance Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Lance Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I also do clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals affected by Autism/Asperger's, ADHD, learning disability, developmental disorders, and more.
I believe in providing a supportive and empowering environment in which my clients can feel heard, safe, and confident that their needs are being met. The best therapists combine competent techniques with genuine empathy and connection to help you achieve the goals and outcome you desire. I work primarily with individuals or couples struggling with traumatic backgrounds, anxiety or depression, addiction, relationship problems, and personality disorders. I strive to ensure that the interaction I have with my clients is always honest, sincere, and compassionate yet effective.
I also do clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals affected by Autism/Asperger's, ADHD, learning disability, developmental disorders, and more.
I believe in providing a supportive and empowering environment in which my clients can feel heard, safe, and confident that their needs are being met. The best therapists combine competent techniques with genuine empathy and connection to help you achieve the goals and outcome you desire. I work primarily with individuals or couples struggling with traumatic backgrounds, anxiety or depression, addiction, relationship problems, and personality disorders. I strive to ensure that the interaction I have with my clients is always honest, sincere, and compassionate yet effective.
(424) 206-6742 View (424) 206-6742
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Valentini, PhD, BCBA
Dr. Stephanie Valentini
PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Navigating an autism spectrum diagnosis for your child can be a challenging and isolating experience. I'm here to help you and your child meet your goals, as well as advocate for yourselves in community/education spaces. Maybe you've already started receiving ABA or school services but you're not seeing progress and you're confused about the process. Maybe you're hoping to get more hands on training and support for yourself as a caregiver. Maybe you just need short term support during a transition or to meet a specific goal.
Navigating an autism spectrum diagnosis for your child can be a challenging and isolating experience. I'm here to help you and your child meet your goals, as well as advocate for yourselves in community/education spaces. Maybe you've already started receiving ABA or school services but you're not seeing progress and you're confused about the process. Maybe you're hoping to get more hands on training and support for yourself as a caregiver. Maybe you just need short term support during a transition or to meet a specific goal.
(424) 688-1963 View (424) 688-1963
Photo of Marisa Burke, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marisa Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
My areas of experience include: ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, as well as self-esteem and social skills.
I am a child therapist who utilizes play as a natural method of communication with your child who is experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, anxiety, or depressive disorders. I provide a confidential, safe, and caring environment for your child to play and explore both conscious and unconscious thoughts and feelings. I will work with your child to empower them to express their needs and make use of their newly learned coping strategies.
My areas of experience include: ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, as well as self-esteem and social skills.
I am a child therapist who utilizes play as a natural method of communication with your child who is experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, anxiety, or depressive disorders. I provide a confidential, safe, and caring environment for your child to play and explore both conscious and unconscious thoughts and feelings. I will work with your child to empower them to express their needs and make use of their newly learned coping strategies.
(310) 956-4076 View (310) 956-4076
Photo of Michelle Parker, ACSW
Michelle Parker
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I provide individual therapy for young adults, teens, and children navigating issues related to anxiety, depression, issues related to navigating neuronormativity with ADHD/Autism/neuro-divergence, life transitions, family conflict, school or career-related stress, identity-related matters, perfectionism, self-esteem, people-pleasing, and relationships.
Hello and welcome! Is your child struggling to navigate high school or middle school? Are you a 20-something overwhelmed with all the uncertainty that comes with this phase of life? I love working with tweens, teens, and young adults in their journey toward wellness and wholeness. I take a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach rooted in respect and a sense of humor. Whether you are brand new to therapy or have tried it out before, it is so important to connect with someone who feels like the right fit for you - for more info about myself and my style, feel free to check out my website at michelleparkertherapy.com.
I provide individual therapy for young adults, teens, and children navigating issues related to anxiety, depression, issues related to navigating neuronormativity with ADHD/Autism/neuro-divergence, life transitions, family conflict, school or career-related stress, identity-related matters, perfectionism, self-esteem, people-pleasing, and relationships.
Hello and welcome! Is your child struggling to navigate high school or middle school? Are you a 20-something overwhelmed with all the uncertainty that comes with this phase of life? I love working with tweens, teens, and young adults in their journey toward wellness and wholeness. I take a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach rooted in respect and a sense of humor. Whether you are brand new to therapy or have tried it out before, it is so important to connect with someone who feels like the right fit for you - for more info about myself and my style, feel free to check out my website at michelleparkertherapy.com.
(707) 993-0869 View (707) 993-0869
Photo of Crista Gonzalez, LEP
Crista Gonzalez
LEP
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I conduct Autism and ADHD assessments and am ND-affirming as well as knowledgeable in PDA.
My approach to therapy is to make clients feel safe and understood while challenging thoughts or habits that might be unhelpful. Although I tailor my treatment to meet the goals and needs of my clients, I implement a mix of evidence-based techniques. These include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and interpersonal process therapies. Using these techniques assists in learning more about yourself and identifying the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I can also teach useful skills to help improve coping and manage challenging situations. I welcome people of all races, sexual orientations, and gender.
I conduct Autism and ADHD assessments and am ND-affirming as well as knowledgeable in PDA.
My approach to therapy is to make clients feel safe and understood while challenging thoughts or habits that might be unhelpful. Although I tailor my treatment to meet the goals and needs of my clients, I implement a mix of evidence-based techniques. These include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and interpersonal process therapies. Using these techniques assists in learning more about yourself and identifying the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I can also teach useful skills to help improve coping and manage challenging situations. I welcome people of all races, sexual orientations, and gender.
(424) 788-5993 View (424) 788-5993
Photo of T.j. Vanmarter, MA, BCBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
T.j. Vanmarter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BCBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I have over 13 years of experience in treating individuals with a variety of mood disorders, neurodivergency (ADHD, Autism, etc), academic and behavioral disorders, and managing life transitions (work, school, relationships, grief, etc).
You've probably found this page because you feel "stuck" in life. Maybe you're a parent who is challenged by their child's unique behavioral, emotional or academic needs and want help navigating them. Perhaps you're entering a life transition, such as entering or exiting a romantic relationship, going to college, or getting a new job and want emotional support and validation. My goal is to help individuals, families and couples find insight into their challenges, cope through distressful situations, and, in effect, become their own therapist.
I have over 13 years of experience in treating individuals with a variety of mood disorders, neurodivergency (ADHD, Autism, etc), academic and behavioral disorders, and managing life transitions (work, school, relationships, grief, etc).
You've probably found this page because you feel "stuck" in life. Maybe you're a parent who is challenged by their child's unique behavioral, emotional or academic needs and want help navigating them. Perhaps you're entering a life transition, such as entering or exiting a romantic relationship, going to college, or getting a new job and want emotional support and validation. My goal is to help individuals, families and couples find insight into their challenges, cope through distressful situations, and, in effect, become their own therapist.
(424) 328-6440 View (424) 328-6440
Photo of Sarah Finch, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Finch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I am a patient, attentive human, fueled by deep curiosity and compassion ready to walk with you through whatever stage of life you are in. Through my own personal work in depth therapy, years of education, and formidable life experiences, I have learned that we are all on our own unique journey towards tending to parts of ourselves that have been mistreated or left behind due to hurtful past experiences. As a human 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 am a patient, attentive human, fueled by deep curiosity and compassion ready to walk with you through whatever stage of life you are in. Through my own personal work in depth therapy, years of education, and formidable life experiences, I have learned that we are all on our own unique journey towards tending to parts of ourselves that have been mistreated or left behind due to hurtful past experiences. As a human 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.
(562) 263-3659 View (562) 263-3659
Photo of Stella Liang, AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stella Liang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Beginning therapy can be a daunting decision, but the potential benefits are profound and long-lasting. Emphasizing mental health wellness is a fundamental aspect of my practice. Many clients seek therapy in search of answers, while others focus on the journey of discovering these answers within themselves. Therapy offers a safe environment to process your thoughts and feelings, providing a space to express your inner thoughts freely. It also serves as a personal sounding board with your best interests in mind.
Beginning therapy can be a daunting decision, but the potential benefits are profound and long-lasting. Emphasizing mental health wellness is a fundamental aspect of my practice. Many clients seek therapy in search of answers, while others focus on the journey of discovering these answers within themselves. Therapy offers a safe environment to process your thoughts and feelings, providing a space to express your inner thoughts freely. It also serves as a personal sounding board with your best interests in mind.
(424) 788-4762 View (424) 788-4762
Photo of Linda Thompson - Dr. Linda Thompson, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Linda Thompson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
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.
(310) 896-4194 View (310) 896-4194
Photo of Crystal Quarry, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 216-5575 View (424) 216-5575
Photo of Jennifer Dormer Lee, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Dormer Lee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I believe a successful therapeutic relationship is rooted in a deep academic understanding of human development, but is most effective when expressed as a pure, honest and simple communication between client and therapist. My approach is to actively engage, creating a supportive and collaborative environment that is equally empathic and challenging. By focusing on both past experiences and present circumstances, I seek to access the client's inner strengths in order to overcome difficult situations, make life changes and break unhealthy patterns.
I believe a successful therapeutic relationship is rooted in a deep academic understanding of human development, but is most effective when expressed as a pure, honest and simple communication between client and therapist. My approach is to actively engage, creating a supportive and collaborative environment that is equally empathic and challenging. By focusing on both past experiences and present circumstances, I seek to access the client's inner strengths in order to overcome difficult situations, make life changes and break unhealthy patterns.
(310) 896-8927 View (310) 896-8927
Photo of Judy Ho, PhD, ABPP, CFMHE, Psychologist
Judy Ho
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CFMHE
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I conduct psychological testing for a variety of purposes, including forensic evaluations and expert witness work, neuropsychological evaluations to assess cognitive functioning and damage from brain injury, and psychoeducational evaluations to examine whether learning disorders exist.These evaluations conclude with detailed written reports use for diagnosis/treatment planning, individualized educational plans (IEP), and criminal and civil courtroom cases including fitness for duty, workers' compensation, harassment issues, ability to parent, and professional board licensing disputes. In all evaluations. I utilize Best Practices and empirically proven instruments, and provide recommendations based on the testing results.
I conduct psychological testing for a variety of purposes, including forensic evaluations and expert witness work, neuropsychological evaluations to assess cognitive functioning and damage from brain injury, and psychoeducational evaluations to examine whether learning disorders exist.These evaluations conclude with detailed written reports use for diagnosis/treatment planning, individualized educational plans (IEP), and criminal and civil courtroom cases including fitness for duty, workers' compensation, harassment issues, ability to parent, and professional board licensing disputes. In all evaluations. I utilize Best Practices and empirically proven instruments, and provide recommendations based on the testing results.
(310) 895-9818 View (310) 895-9818
Photo of Nicole Pickering, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Pickering
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Seeing your child struggle with anxiety is such a helpless feeling. Your daughter is paralyzed with fear about what others may think of her, and nothing that you say can comfort her. Your son freezes on homework and tests, feeling that everything must be perfect, and you feel guilty, as you wonder if you've passed these anxious thoughts down to him. Sunday night comes and they're preoccupied with the thought of the impending school week, and no matter how rational you are with them, they can't shake the dread that comes with going to school.
Seeing your child struggle with anxiety is such a helpless feeling. Your daughter is paralyzed with fear about what others may think of her, and nothing that you say can comfort her. Your son freezes on homework and tests, feeling that everything must be perfect, and you feel guilty, as you wonder if you've passed these anxious thoughts down to him. Sunday night comes and they're preoccupied with the thought of the impending school week, and no matter how rational you are with them, they can't shake the dread that comes with going to school.
(424) 292-6925 View (424) 292-6925

See more therapy options for Manhattan Beach

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.