Autism Therapists in San Dimas, CA

Photo of Kelsey Compton, EdS, LEP, PPS
Kelsey Compton
EdS, LEP, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
As an Educational Psychologist, I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, such as those with Autism or ADHD, and those with other unique learning profiles.
Struggling at school or work, difficulty focusing, and having a hard time make meaningful connections with family and friends can be overwhelming for anyone-adult or child. I approach my work with empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to reach their full potential. Whether it's conducting assessments, providing parent consultation, or counseling and coaching clients, I am dedicated to tailoring my services to meet the unique needs of each individual and family l I work with.
As an Educational Psychologist, I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, such as those with Autism or ADHD, and those with other unique learning profiles.
Struggling at school or work, difficulty focusing, and having a hard time make meaningful connections with family and friends can be overwhelming for anyone-adult or child. I approach my work with empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to reach their full potential. Whether it's conducting assessments, providing parent consultation, or counseling and coaching clients, I am dedicated to tailoring my services to meet the unique needs of each individual and family l I work with.
(909) 530-3170 View (909) 530-3170
Photo of Tamara Obregon Madera, PsyD, Psychologist
Tamara Obregon Madera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessment for concerns related to Autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, concerns related to traumatic brain injury, and other psychiatric and medical illnesses.
I want to empathize with you and provide you with the support you need at this time. My intention is to hold a peaceful space for you where you can explore the difficulties you are encountering. In my psychotherapy practice I frequently work with clients that present with anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, illness, and grief. I will address your needs in a holistic manner which will involve a balance of your mind, spirit, and body. I am well versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, existential therapy, and transpersonal psychotherapy and use these in treatment to promote healing.
I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessment for concerns related to Autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, concerns related to traumatic brain injury, and other psychiatric and medical illnesses.
I want to empathize with you and provide you with the support you need at this time. My intention is to hold a peaceful space for you where you can explore the difficulties you are encountering. In my psychotherapy practice I frequently work with clients that present with anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, illness, and grief. I will address your needs in a holistic manner which will involve a balance of your mind, spirit, and body. I am well versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, existential therapy, and transpersonal psychotherapy and use these in treatment to promote healing.
(626) 727-8221 View (626) 727-8221
Photo of Dr. Amanda Alonzo, PsyD, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Amanda Alonzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
Blu Alliance Counseling Center first and foremost specializes in you. Our therapists training has allowed them the knowledge base to work with a variety of presenting problems, primarily since we believe our work is about exploring and understanding you as an individual, not as a diagnosis. Our motto here at Blu Alliance is "Blu Specializes in You" and we fully believe this to be true! During this time of COVID-19 we are fully equipped to provide Telehealth services via phone call, and video on a variety of devices.
Blu Alliance Counseling Center first and foremost specializes in you. Our therapists training has allowed them the knowledge base to work with a variety of presenting problems, primarily since we believe our work is about exploring and understanding you as an individual, not as a diagnosis. Our motto here at Blu Alliance is "Blu Specializes in You" and we fully believe this to be true! During this time of COVID-19 we are fully equipped to provide Telehealth services via phone call, and video on a variety of devices.
(626) 624-4323 View (626) 624-4323
Photo of Jodi Peterson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
I work with variety of people in the midst of their life journey. focus on client-centered therapy. By taking this approach, working with each individual, couple, family, and child, a stronger connection for growth can be created. I am privileged to walk along with my clients through their lives. Together we process challenges, traumas, heartaches, life adjustments, losses, relationships, and more related to personal experiences. Therapy helps increase abilities to communicate, & process. We work to go beyond surviving, through healing, to truly thriving, striving toward a life with strong relationships, filled with joy, and hope.
I work with variety of people in the midst of their life journey. focus on client-centered therapy. By taking this approach, working with each individual, couple, family, and child, a stronger connection for growth can be created. I am privileged to walk along with my clients through their lives. Together we process challenges, traumas, heartaches, life adjustments, losses, relationships, and more related to personal experiences. Therapy helps increase abilities to communicate, & process. We work to go beyond surviving, through healing, to truly thriving, striving toward a life with strong relationships, filled with joy, and hope.
(909) 906-9272 View (909) 906-9272
Photo of Kimberly Cruz, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Kimberly Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773  (Online Only)
I work through an attachment, CBT, Structural family therapy lens aimed at assisting children and their families connect. I utilize play based techniques to increase understanding and foster communication. I meet my clients were they are and work together to identify and foster their strengths in an empowering way.
I work through an attachment, CBT, Structural family therapy lens aimed at assisting children and their families connect. I utilize play based techniques to increase understanding and foster communication. I meet my clients were they are and work together to identify and foster their strengths in an empowering way.
(626) 602-9724 View (626) 602-9724
Latricea Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
(909) 666-9614 View (909) 666-9614
Photo of Nicole Bessire-Taylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Bessire-Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
Nicole Bessire Taylor is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nicole has a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Nicole's therapeutic work has focused on treating individuals, couples, and families with a broad spectrum of clinical issues.
Nicole Bessire Taylor is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nicole has a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Nicole's therapeutic work has focused on treating individuals, couples, and families with a broad spectrum of clinical issues.
(909) 891-0612 View (909) 891-0612
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth J. James, DMFT, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Elizabeth J. James
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
Are you lying awake at night concerned about your child that is experiencing anxiety, depression, or ADHD behaviors in school? Are you afraid and don’t know how to address missed emotional milestones or delayed social skills? Or maybe you are contemplating the best way to decrease the negative impact of going through a divorce on your family...all of these can feel utterly overwhelming. I want you to know that I get it and I have years of experience coming alongside these very issues to bring emotional growth, strengthened communication, and tools that are effective and empowering.
Are you lying awake at night concerned about your child that is experiencing anxiety, depression, or ADHD behaviors in school? Are you afraid and don’t know how to address missed emotional milestones or delayed social skills? Or maybe you are contemplating the best way to decrease the negative impact of going through a divorce on your family...all of these can feel utterly overwhelming. I want you to know that I get it and I have years of experience coming alongside these very issues to bring emotional growth, strengthened communication, and tools that are effective and empowering.
(626) 726-3516 View (626) 726-3516
Photo of Karina Kazaryan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karina Kazaryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
My name is Karina Kazaryan. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. I have been a psychotherapist since 2005, and during my years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
My name is Karina Kazaryan. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. I have been a psychotherapist since 2005, and during my years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
(714) 360-0151 View (714) 360-0151
Photo of Douglas Livingston Quinn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Douglas Livingston Quinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
My name is Douglas Livingston-Quinn, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have masters degrees in divinity and counseling psychology, as well as a doctorate in clinical psychology. I have great insight and comfort working with adults and young adults, and an extensive background working with clients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, autistic-spectrum disorders, depression, loss and grief, sexual abuse, and trauma/PTSD. I employ a mix of approaches including interpersonal, client-centered, behavioral, cognitive, solution-focused and motivational modalities, as well as elements of EMDR where it seems useful.
My name is Douglas Livingston-Quinn, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have masters degrees in divinity and counseling psychology, as well as a doctorate in clinical psychology. I have great insight and comfort working with adults and young adults, and an extensive background working with clients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, autistic-spectrum disorders, depression, loss and grief, sexual abuse, and trauma/PTSD. I employ a mix of approaches including interpersonal, client-centered, behavioral, cognitive, solution-focused and motivational modalities, as well as elements of EMDR where it seems useful.
(909) 442-0515 View (909) 442-0515
Photo of Glenn Lee Abrams, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glenn Lee Abrams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
Not accepting new clients
I am a bilingual (Spanish fluent) Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and for almost 20 years I have provided therapy to children, adolescents, young adults, families, adults, as well as couples with various mental health difficulties. Through my work experience, formal education, & training I have developed an ability to quickly build a healthy therapeutic relationship with clients. I believe it is this relationship that is essential for a therapist to help one overcome their various mental health difficulties. With this help they can then have that chance to realize their true potential.
I am a bilingual (Spanish fluent) Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and for almost 20 years I have provided therapy to children, adolescents, young adults, families, adults, as well as couples with various mental health difficulties. Through my work experience, formal education, & training I have developed an ability to quickly build a healthy therapeutic relationship with clients. I believe it is this relationship that is essential for a therapist to help one overcome their various mental health difficulties. With this help they can then have that chance to realize their true potential.
(909) 474-2874 View (909) 474-2874

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Vanessa C Fontes, PsyD, Psychologist
Vanessa C Fontes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendora, CA 91740
My specialities include ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, and relational issues between parents and their children.
You need a child therapist who does great work with your child, but also who communicates well with you. You've tried the self-help section, but you know you need more now. It's not about who said what, who did this, or didn't do that. It's about you and your child and what you both need right now to feel better. Whether you're dealing with relational issues between you and your child, Anxiety, behavioral issues, or simply symptoms of your child's diagnosis. I am here to help! My name is Vanessa Fontes. I am a clinical psychologist who loves working with families. Children, parents, and teens send them my way!
My specialities include ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, and relational issues between parents and their children.
You need a child therapist who does great work with your child, but also who communicates well with you. You've tried the self-help section, but you know you need more now. It's not about who said what, who did this, or didn't do that. It's about you and your child and what you both need right now to feel better. Whether you're dealing with relational issues between you and your child, Anxiety, behavioral issues, or simply symptoms of your child's diagnosis. I am here to help! My name is Vanessa Fontes. I am a clinical psychologist who loves working with families. Children, parents, and teens send them my way!
(909) 693-3017 View (909) 693-3017
Photo of Kayla Garcia, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Garcia
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duarte, CA 91008
I have helped those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, racial inequities, BPD, and autism spectrum.
Connecting to my clients is of utmost importance to me. Connecting to you is essential in assisting you to achieve your goals; I truly believe in actively being present for you. I openly listen to what is of significance to you and I non-judgmentally hear where you’re coming from and your life experiences.
I have helped those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, racial inequities, BPD, and autism spectrum.
Connecting to my clients is of utmost importance to me. Connecting to you is essential in assisting you to achieve your goals; I truly believe in actively being present for you. I openly listen to what is of significance to you and I non-judgmentally hear where you’re coming from and your life experiences.
(626) 649-4411 View (626) 649-4411
Photo of Briana Brewster, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Brewster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
Briana offers additional specialties in Autism Spectrum Disorders, ensuring comprehensive support for diverse needs.
Briana has a strong passion for treating anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complexities and challenges these conditions can present and works diligently to create personalized treatment plans. Using evidencebased approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, she helps clients develop effective coping strategies and achieve meaningful progress. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma, Briana also specializes in working with individuals dealing with depression, grief, and childhood behavior issues.
Briana offers additional specialties in Autism Spectrum Disorders, ensuring comprehensive support for diverse needs.
Briana has a strong passion for treating anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complexities and challenges these conditions can present and works diligently to create personalized treatment plans. Using evidencebased approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, she helps clients develop effective coping strategies and achieve meaningful progress. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma, Briana also specializes in working with individuals dealing with depression, grief, and childhood behavior issues.
(626) 667-2293 View (626) 667-2293
Photo of Sarah Mireles, LPCC, MA
Sarah Mireles
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Covina, CA 91723
My experience spans multiple diagnoses such as severe anxiety, OCD, autism, ADHD, and depression.
Feeling stuck? Paralyzed by fear? If you find yourself struggling to get unstuck from a job, a relationship, or a major life transition, if you are struggling with OCD, panic, anxiety, depression or experience difficulty regulating emotions, know that you can feel better with the right support. Mental blocks can get in the way of progress and being present in the moment. As a licensed professional counselor (LPCC) and certified life coach (CLC), I would love to help.
My experience spans multiple diagnoses such as severe anxiety, OCD, autism, ADHD, and depression.
Feeling stuck? Paralyzed by fear? If you find yourself struggling to get unstuck from a job, a relationship, or a major life transition, if you are struggling with OCD, panic, anxiety, depression or experience difficulty regulating emotions, know that you can feel better with the right support. Mental blocks can get in the way of progress and being present in the moment. As a licensed professional counselor (LPCC) and certified life coach (CLC), I would love to help.
(424) 349-4578 View (424) 349-4578
Photo of Rebecca DeLeon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca DeLeon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
City of Industry, CA 91748  (Online Only)
She has worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, stress, and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Rebecca DeLeon is a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 15 years of experience in the field. Her therapeutic style is both compassionate and evidence-based, ensuring that her clients receive the most effective care tailored to their unique needs. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their challenges and achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives. Rebecca's expertise lies in working in residential settings, where she has honed her skills in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
She has worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, stress, and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Rebecca DeLeon is a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 15 years of experience in the field. Her therapeutic style is both compassionate and evidence-based, ensuring that her clients receive the most effective care tailored to their unique needs. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their challenges and achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives. Rebecca's expertise lies in working in residential settings, where she has honed her skills in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(626) 317-7636 View (626) 317-7636
Photo of Monica Blied - Dr. Blied {Autism & ADHD Testing - teens & adults}, PhD, MACL, BSP, Psychologist
Dr. Blied {Autism & ADHD Testing - teens & adults}
Psychologist, PhD, MACL, BSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
Accepting new assessment/testing clients! I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience providing therapy services and psychological/neuropsychological assessments for individuals ages 8-50. I understand the overlap between mental health disorders, the nuances of neurodivergence, and am skilled at differential diagnosis. I provide professional diagnostic assessment for ADHD and Autism for both children and adults. I also provide accommodations testing for people with learning differences. As a late-diagnosed twice-exceptional & neurodivergent woman, I work with clients by combining compassion with clinical expertise.
Accepting new assessment/testing clients! I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience providing therapy services and psychological/neuropsychological assessments for individuals ages 8-50. I understand the overlap between mental health disorders, the nuances of neurodivergence, and am skilled at differential diagnosis. I provide professional diagnostic assessment for ADHD and Autism for both children and adults. I also provide accommodations testing for people with learning differences. As a late-diagnosed twice-exceptional & neurodivergent woman, I work with clients by combining compassion with clinical expertise.
(909) 552-8448 View (909) 552-8448
Photo of Yolanda Medina, MS,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yolanda Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
Yolanda’s experience working with diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals on the autism spectrum, and those involved in adoption or foster care, allows her to offer inclusive and culturally sensitive care.
Specializing in a broad range of mental health concerns, Yolanda is particularly passionate about working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to supporting those with PTSD and trauma, where she provides a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and begin healing. Additionally, Yolanda is skilled in helping couples and families improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and stronger connections. She also works with clients navigating women’s issues, offering tailored support to empower them in overcoming life’s challenges.
Yolanda’s experience working with diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals on the autism spectrum, and those involved in adoption or foster care, allows her to offer inclusive and culturally sensitive care.
Specializing in a broad range of mental health concerns, Yolanda is particularly passionate about working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to supporting those with PTSD and trauma, where she provides a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and begin healing. Additionally, Yolanda is skilled in helping couples and families improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and stronger connections. She also works with clients navigating women’s issues, offering tailored support to empower them in overcoming life’s challenges.
(626) 779-8508 View (626) 779-8508
Photo of Dr. Ted Bartholomew, PhD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Ted Bartholomew
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
My assessment work includes evaluating for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and personality factors.
Psychological assessment and individual psychotherapy are helpful when people might be looking for self-understanding. These services help foster better self-awareness, strengths identification, or new coping skills to build resilience. My work in psychological assessment centers a collaborative style through which I intend for people being tested to better understand themselves, their learning styles, and/or their ways of experiencing the world. Therapy is a space where I aim to work with clients to reach their goals by understanding clients' contexts, identities, strengths, and goals.
My assessment work includes evaluating for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and personality factors.
Psychological assessment and individual psychotherapy are helpful when people might be looking for self-understanding. These services help foster better self-awareness, strengths identification, or new coping skills to build resilience. My work in psychological assessment centers a collaborative style through which I intend for people being tested to better understand themselves, their learning styles, and/or their ways of experiencing the world. Therapy is a space where I aim to work with clients to reach their goals by understanding clients' contexts, identities, strengths, and goals.
(424) 484-4573 View (424) 484-4573
Photo of Michael Tiura, CP, Psychologist
Michael Tiura
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Pomona, CA 91768
My name is Michael Tiura and I am a licensed psychologist based in Oakland, CA. I work with clients via telehealth throughout California. I specialize in working with clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, in addition to building healthy coping strategies. I provide brief, (3 to 6 months) skills-based therapy using techniques from cognitive behavior therapy, positive psychology, and dialectical behavior therapy. My communication style is warm, relaxed, and collaborative. I want clients to feel safe and comfortable while also having a say in what their goals and treatment will look like.
My name is Michael Tiura and I am a licensed psychologist based in Oakland, CA. I work with clients via telehealth throughout California. I specialize in working with clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, in addition to building healthy coping strategies. I provide brief, (3 to 6 months) skills-based therapy using techniques from cognitive behavior therapy, positive psychology, and dialectical behavior therapy. My communication style is warm, relaxed, and collaborative. I want clients to feel safe and comfortable while also having a say in what their goals and treatment will look like.
(909) 639-3866 View (909) 639-3866

See more therapy options for San Dimas

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.