Autism Therapists in Pico Rivera, CA

Photo of Shawn Briggs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawn Briggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
I specialize in trauma resolution, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) anxiety, depressive disorders, including postpartum depression, and autism spectrum disorder.
My name is Shawn Marie Briggs, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My education includes a master's in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). Through my education and experience, I have developed expertise in cultural diversity and the ability to provide clients with guidance through life's most difficult challenges. One of the most wonderful parts of my work is having the ability to meet clients where they are at and helping them to explore methods of coping that would best suit their individual needs.
I specialize in trauma resolution, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) anxiety, depressive disorders, including postpartum depression, and autism spectrum disorder.
My name is Shawn Marie Briggs, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My education includes a master's in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). Through my education and experience, I have developed expertise in cultural diversity and the ability to provide clients with guidance through life's most difficult challenges. One of the most wonderful parts of my work is having the ability to meet clients where they are at and helping them to explore methods of coping that would best suit their individual needs.
(562) 684-6294 View (562) 684-6294
Photo of Nicole Chatwin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Chatwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
My name is Nicole Chatwin (LMFT 138-140) and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting my clients through transition in a safe and comfortable setting. I work with individuals, young adults, and adolescents/teens and specialize in anxiety relief, divorce and separation support, school-based behavioral concerns, anger management, social and achievement anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem building, ADHD/Autism/CD diagnoses support, college counseling, life transitions, and personal growth.
My name is Nicole Chatwin (LMFT 138-140) and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting my clients through transition in a safe and comfortable setting. I work with individuals, young adults, and adolescents/teens and specialize in anxiety relief, divorce and separation support, school-based behavioral concerns, anger management, social and achievement anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem building, ADHD/Autism/CD diagnoses support, college counseling, life transitions, and personal growth.
(562) 553-3817 View (562) 553-3817
Photo of Toppacio Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Toppacio Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
I learned how to provide caregivers with parenting while assisting children who are in the probation system and have autism, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and other mental health concerns.
Hello, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez, but you can refer to me as Topy. My pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). As a therapist, I will follow your lead and provide suggestions and information on what options are available. I'm a big believer that having limited expectations only provide limited opportunities. I will collaborate with you to identify challenges in your path, brainstorm with you and be on your side as you see what works best. I have had the pleasure of learning from various groups and populations. I obtained experience working in Family Preservation assisting families through the reunification process.
I learned how to provide caregivers with parenting while assisting children who are in the probation system and have autism, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and other mental health concerns.
Hello, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez, but you can refer to me as Topy. My pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). As a therapist, I will follow your lead and provide suggestions and information on what options are available. I'm a big believer that having limited expectations only provide limited opportunities. I will collaborate with you to identify challenges in your path, brainstorm with you and be on your side as you see what works best. I have had the pleasure of learning from various groups and populations. I obtained experience working in Family Preservation assisting families through the reunification process.
(619) 853-3973 View (619) 853-3973
Photo of Liang “Yeeng” Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liang “Yeeng” Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
Welcome to my profile! I am Yeeng. I have been licensed as a marriage and family therapist (MFT) since 2006. My passion is to provide cross-cultural, multilingual, and integrative therapeutic services. I support individuals and families going through life transitions such as work, relationships, and health. I create a safe and healing space for you to explore, identify, and utilize your internal resources within you and the potential external resources and support system around you to restore yourselves mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Welcome to my profile! I am Yeeng. I have been licensed as a marriage and family therapist (MFT) since 2006. My passion is to provide cross-cultural, multilingual, and integrative therapeutic services. I support individuals and families going through life transitions such as work, relationships, and health. I create a safe and healing space for you to explore, identify, and utilize your internal resources within you and the potential external resources and support system around you to restore yourselves mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
(424) 622-3885 View (424) 622-3885
Photo of Robyn Coughlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Coughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
My name is Robyn Coughlin, LCSW. I have been licensed to practice therapy since 2007. To improve mood and confidence and combat life stress, I approach individual therapy collaboratively using nonjudgmental supportive listening, insight-oriented questions, gentle perspective, and a solution-focused and mental strength approach. I provide personalized support, a safe space to talk out your thoughts and feelings, gain perspective, and have accountability to improve your mood, relationships, and confidence.
My name is Robyn Coughlin, LCSW. I have been licensed to practice therapy since 2007. To improve mood and confidence and combat life stress, I approach individual therapy collaboratively using nonjudgmental supportive listening, insight-oriented questions, gentle perspective, and a solution-focused and mental strength approach. I provide personalized support, a safe space to talk out your thoughts and feelings, gain perspective, and have accountability to improve your mood, relationships, and confidence.
(661) 669-8279 View (661) 669-8279

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sammie M. Williams - Dr. Sammie Williams, PsyD, PsyD, CAS, Psychologist
Dr. Sammie Williams, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
As a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), I currently provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of children and adolescents (including infants, toddlers, and adults). I specialize in the assessment of various developmental challenges commonly seen in young children and adolescents, specifically developmental delays, behavioral difficulties, and other “mannerisms” likely associated with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I also provide evaluations of intellectual and learning disabilities, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE), second opinions, and assessments that provide recommendations and guide treatment planning.
As a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), I currently provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of children and adolescents (including infants, toddlers, and adults). I specialize in the assessment of various developmental challenges commonly seen in young children and adolescents, specifically developmental delays, behavioral difficulties, and other “mannerisms” likely associated with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I also provide evaluations of intellectual and learning disabilities, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE), second opinions, and assessments that provide recommendations and guide treatment planning.
(562) 275-8442 View (562) 275-8442
Photo of Olga Aguilar - Arroyo Seco Family Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Olga Aguilar - Arroyo Seco Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I have a great deal of experience working with the neurodivergent population that have issues with, but not limited to Autism, ADHD, and Auditory Processing Disorder.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward creating change. My motto is "Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light." This can only be accomplished by shedding burdens that weigh you down. I aim to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for personal exploration and healing. I enjoy working with clients who may be apprehensive of mental health services or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
I have a great deal of experience working with the neurodivergent population that have issues with, but not limited to Autism, ADHD, and Auditory Processing Disorder.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward creating change. My motto is "Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light." This can only be accomplished by shedding burdens that weigh you down. I aim to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for personal exploration and healing. I enjoy working with clients who may be apprehensive of mental health services or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
(626) 421-7750 View (626) 421-7750
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 Stephanie Caballero, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Caballero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
(971) 233-2471 View (971) 233-2471
Photo of Ashley Taylor, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Taylor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Dr. Taylor and her team at Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology integrate creativity, fun, and compassion into their work. We specialize in providing comprehensive, thoughtful, and trauma-informed services for children, teens, and adults including maternal/paternal mental health and support for pregnant and parenting families. We are able to provide thorough psychological, psycho-educational and trauma-informed evaluations to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, attachment, autism, selective mutism, and more. We work collaboratively with parents, children, and teachers as needed.
Dr. Taylor and her team at Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology integrate creativity, fun, and compassion into their work. We specialize in providing comprehensive, thoughtful, and trauma-informed services for children, teens, and adults including maternal/paternal mental health and support for pregnant and parenting families. We are able to provide thorough psychological, psycho-educational and trauma-informed evaluations to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, attachment, autism, selective mutism, and more. We work collaboratively with parents, children, and teachers as needed.
(360) 564-5082 View (360) 564-5082
Photo of Andrea Price, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Andrea Price
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
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 Veronica Choi, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Veronica Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90601  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you or someone you love struggling with autism, trauma, depression, or anxiety? Maybe you desire to see changes in your life but need extra support to make those changes a reality. Or perhaps you are feeling stuck and are wondering if there is any hope for you. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes that therapy is a process in which I work together with my clients to make positive changes in their lives.
Are you or someone you love struggling with autism, trauma, depression, or anxiety? Maybe you desire to see changes in your life but need extra support to make those changes a reality. Or perhaps you are feeling stuck and are wondering if there is any hope for you. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes that therapy is a process in which I work together with my clients to make positive changes in their lives.
(909) 453-4364 View (909) 453-4364
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 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 Dr. Adrienne Douglas Sullivan - S & S Psychological Consultants, MA, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
S & S Psychological Consultants
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Lakewood, CA 90713  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents with a range of different learning difficulties such as attention challenges (ADD/ ADHD), behavior concerns (ODD), compulsive behavior (OCD), and Autism.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to my clients. For therapy to be effective it is important to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. As a participant in the treatment process we work together to develop treatment goals that fit your unique needs.
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents with a range of different learning difficulties such as attention challenges (ADD/ ADHD), behavior concerns (ODD), compulsive behavior (OCD), and Autism.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to my clients. For therapy to be effective it is important to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. As a participant in the treatment process we work together to develop treatment goals that fit your unique needs.
(562) 321-9946 View (562) 321-9946
Photo of Adriana Anaya, PsyD, Psychologist
Adriana Anaya
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90602
Waitlist for new clients
I am an early childhood psychologist who specializes in developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). I am committed to helping children and families overcome obstacles and learn skills to optimize their experience in their homes and communities. I am bilingual and bicultural practitioner with a passion for helping Spanish-speaking families. If you and/or your family have experienced trauma, are struggling with the stress of our current climate, I would love to help you navigate these new and unexpected circumstances.
I am an early childhood psychologist who specializes in developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). I am committed to helping children and families overcome obstacles and learn skills to optimize their experience in their homes and communities. I am bilingual and bicultural practitioner with a passion for helping Spanish-speaking families. If you and/or your family have experienced trauma, are struggling with the stress of our current climate, I would love to help you navigate these new and unexpected circumstances.
(562) 307-8160 View (562) 307-8160
Photo of Oscar A Donoso, PhD, Psychologist
Oscar A Donoso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90602
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 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 Carrie N Dilley, PhD, Psychologist
Carrie N Dilley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
(626) 539-2001 x2 View (626) 539-2001 x2

See more therapy options for Pico Rivera

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.