Autism Therapists in South Pasadena, CA

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 Yanel Bueno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yanel Bueno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Intersectionality is the energy and the lens I bring to a space. I assist folks with managing issues including perfectionism, imposter syndrome, codependency, people-pleasing, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, and attachment. I have a passion for working with the neurodivergent community (specifically autism and ADHD) in learning to unmask and find the beauty in their existence. I love challenging folks to reframe negative thinking patterns and to start identifying their strengths over their burdens. My goal is to help you live unapologetically yourself.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Intersectionality is the energy and the lens I bring to a space. I assist folks with managing issues including perfectionism, imposter syndrome, codependency, people-pleasing, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, and attachment. I have a passion for working with the neurodivergent community (specifically autism and ADHD) in learning to unmask and find the beauty in their existence. I love challenging folks to reframe negative thinking patterns and to start identifying their strengths over their burdens. My goal is to help you live unapologetically yourself.
(323) 870-6107 View (323) 870-6107
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, teens and young adults 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 years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents in working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework. I have a special interest & training in working with kids who have both an OCD and autism or ADHD diagnosis.
I work with kids, teens and young adults 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 years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents in working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework. I have a special interest & training in working with kids who have both an OCD and autism or ADHD diagnosis.
(323) 894-0263 View (323) 894-0263
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 Monica Babaian, PsyD, Psychologist
Monica Babaian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
As a licensed clinical psychologist and pediatric neuropsychologist, I specialize in conducting comprehensive evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. My expertise includes working with neurodivergent individuals, covering a range of needs such as ADHD, Autism, Giftedness, and more. My services encompass thorough neuropsychological assessments, educational and academic evaluations (addressing Reading, Writing, Math Learning Disorders, and testing accommodations for BAR, SAT, MCAT), and identification of emotional-behavioral challenges such as Anxiety and Depression.
As a licensed clinical psychologist and pediatric neuropsychologist, I specialize in conducting comprehensive evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. My expertise includes working with neurodivergent individuals, covering a range of needs such as ADHD, Autism, Giftedness, and more. My services encompass thorough neuropsychological assessments, educational and academic evaluations (addressing Reading, Writing, Math Learning Disorders, and testing accommodations for BAR, SAT, MCAT), and identification of emotional-behavioral challenges such as Anxiety and Depression.
(323) 515-1539 View (323) 515-1539
Photo of Karin Manger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Manger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, in addition to children struggling with ADHD and social skill issues.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years. My main area of focus is working with families and children. Initially in my career, I worked with children in residential treatment settings, who were struggling with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. During the past 20 years I have worked primarily in the field of high conflict divorce. I deal with all aspects of divorce, including mediating custody agreements, comprehensive child custody evaluations, resolving co-parenting conflicts and helping children cope with the stress of parental conflict. I also work with families dealing with blended family issues.
I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, in addition to children struggling with ADHD and social skill issues.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years. My main area of focus is working with families and children. Initially in my career, I worked with children in residential treatment settings, who were struggling with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. During the past 20 years I have worked primarily in the field of high conflict divorce. I deal with all aspects of divorce, including mediating custody agreements, comprehensive child custody evaluations, resolving co-parenting conflicts and helping children cope with the stress of parental conflict. I also work with families dealing with blended family issues.
(213) 399-5099 View (213) 399-5099
Photo of Joe Vivo, PsyD, Psychologist
Joe Vivo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change within the individual and the family system. With over 23 years of experience in youth mental health and 9 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct challenges, family conflict, and autism.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change within the individual and the family system. With over 23 years of experience in youth mental health and 9 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct challenges, family conflict, and autism.
(626) 283-5591 View (626) 283-5591
Photo of Adelina Matevosyan, PhD, Psychologist
Adelina Matevosyan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
Matevosyan's provides academic and workplace accommodations, as well as targeted treatment recommendations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disorders, Giftedness/2e, Mood Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and complex medial conditions.
Dr. Adelina Matevosyan is a Neuropsychologist who offers comprehensive assessment services to children, adolescents and adults presenting with cognitive, academic, and social-emotional concerns. She has over a decade of tailored clinical training in neuropsychological assessments throughout the developmental lifespan and works with families to provide diagnostic clarity. Her practice utilizes a holistic approach considering cognitive, psychological, and behavioral factors.
(818) 287-0300 View (818) 287-0300
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Angela Youngs, PsyD, Psychologist
Angela Youngs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I provide support for various presentations include: Anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, low self-esteem, restrictive eating, ADHD, autism, life transition challenges, identity exploration, difficulty coping with emotions, and parenting concerns.
Hi there! Is your child or adolescent exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image challenges, or interpersonal challenges? Are you concerned these challenges are impacting their ability to thrive? I am a licensed psychologist trained in working with children, adolescents, and their parents, and I am here to help! I approach my work from a relational perspective, meaning I prioritize the therapeutic relationship, as it is the vessel that allows for growth and change. From there, I utilize conversation, art, play, and more to support skill-building, resilience development, and insight.
I provide support for various presentations include: Anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, low self-esteem, restrictive eating, ADHD, autism, life transition challenges, identity exploration, difficulty coping with emotions, and parenting concerns.
Hi there! Is your child or adolescent exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image challenges, or interpersonal challenges? Are you concerned these challenges are impacting their ability to thrive? I am a licensed psychologist trained in working with children, adolescents, and their parents, and I am here to help! I approach my work from a relational perspective, meaning I prioritize the therapeutic relationship, as it is the vessel that allows for growth and change. From there, I utilize conversation, art, play, and more to support skill-building, resilience development, and insight.
(323) 784-1246 View (323) 784-1246
Photo of Erica Salzman, MS, LEP, NCSP
Erica Salzman
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, LEP, NCSP
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I provide assessment, consultation, and intervention planning for Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, ADHD and executive functioning deficits, gifted and twice-exceptional clients, and emotional and behavioral disorders (i.
I’m Erica Salzman, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4465) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Through my private practice, The Exceptional Learner, I support diverse learners by identifying strengths and helping to overcome challenges. Through detailed assessments, I uncover individual learning nuances to tailor interventions and accommodations, which helps to amplify each person’s potential. I am passionate about helping individuals succeed in their educational environment.
I provide assessment, consultation, and intervention planning for Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, ADHD and executive functioning deficits, gifted and twice-exceptional clients, and emotional and behavioral disorders (i.
I’m Erica Salzman, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4465) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Through my private practice, The Exceptional Learner, I support diverse learners by identifying strengths and helping to overcome challenges. Through detailed assessments, I uncover individual learning nuances to tailor interventions and accommodations, which helps to amplify each person’s potential. I am passionate about helping individuals succeed in their educational environment.
(626) 876-3766 View (626) 876-3766
Photo of Mady Snyder, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mady Snyder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
My office is a place where you can feel safe and supported while processing the challenges you experience in day to day life. In our work together, you will discover more about yourself and who you are in light of your life experiences. I am compassionate and understanding, and will work to build a relationship in which there is room for you to feel safely challenged and supported. I create a collaborative environment that invites you into the therapeutic process. I work with individuals across the lifespan, couples, and families, and I specialize in working with Neurodivergent folks.
My office is a place where you can feel safe and supported while processing the challenges you experience in day to day life. In our work together, you will discover more about yourself and who you are in light of your life experiences. I am compassionate and understanding, and will work to build a relationship in which there is room for you to feel safely challenged and supported. I create a collaborative environment that invites you into the therapeutic process. I work with individuals across the lifespan, couples, and families, and I specialize in working with Neurodivergent folks.
(626) 662-7843 View (626) 662-7843
Photo of Julie Walker, MS , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Hi I’m Julie and I’m here if you want to talk. I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist that offers approachable mental health services. I offer a casual approach for those that might be a bit intimidated by the process of starting therapy. I work with children, adolescents/teens and adults who may need a little extra support navigating social relationships, building self-esteem, navigating stress or mood changes, or who may be having trouble balancing the demands of school, work, and/or relationships. I'm also a Neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ experienced provider. I can provide a Superbill to submit for insurance reimbursement.
Hi I’m Julie and I’m here if you want to talk. I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist that offers approachable mental health services. I offer a casual approach for those that might be a bit intimidated by the process of starting therapy. I work with children, adolescents/teens and adults who may need a little extra support navigating social relationships, building self-esteem, navigating stress or mood changes, or who may be having trouble balancing the demands of school, work, and/or relationships. I'm also a Neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ experienced provider. I can provide a Superbill to submit for insurance reimbursement.
(310) 861-6964 View (310) 861-6964
Photo of Bria Edgar, MA, EdS, APCC
Bria Edgar
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, EdS, APCC
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are you a young adult struggling with imposter syndrome? Feeling stressed about family, friendships, work or school? As you transition into adulthood you may experience fear, isolation, insecurities, self doubt and so much more. Whether you are unsure about your future or feel that every decision you make may impact your future this is a good time to connect with someone to talk it out. Let’s work together to overcome your current challenges.
Are you a young adult struggling with imposter syndrome? Feeling stressed about family, friendships, work or school? As you transition into adulthood you may experience fear, isolation, insecurities, self doubt and so much more. Whether you are unsure about your future or feel that every decision you make may impact your future this is a good time to connect with someone to talk it out. Let’s work together to overcome your current challenges.
(909) 979-1978 View (909) 979-1978
Photo of Casey MacGregor-Toshima, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey MacGregor-Toshima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Most people need help at various times in their lives navigating difficult experiences. My approach is collaborative, action-oriented and positive with individuals and couples. When relevant, I incorporate somatic (body) approaches, including EMDR and Brainspotting modalities to working with anxiety, phobias, trauma and other issues. My practice also includes the option of "walking and talking" outdoors. I am influenced by IFS / IFIO (parts work), self-compassion, feminist, and polyvagal approaches. I help clients connect more deeply with the past and address barriers to well-being in the present.
Most people need help at various times in their lives navigating difficult experiences. My approach is collaborative, action-oriented and positive with individuals and couples. When relevant, I incorporate somatic (body) approaches, including EMDR and Brainspotting modalities to working with anxiety, phobias, trauma and other issues. My practice also includes the option of "walking and talking" outdoors. I am influenced by IFS / IFIO (parts work), self-compassion, feminist, and polyvagal approaches. I help clients connect more deeply with the past and address barriers to well-being in the present.
(626) 684-3136 View (626) 684-3136
Photo of Yeva Ghrjyan, PsyD
Yeva Ghrjyan
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are you a parent who believes in the transformative power of understanding your child's inner world? Are you committed to nurturing a strong and loving relationship with your little one, even amidst life's challenges? If so, you're in the right place. Whether your child is facing common behavioral issues, transitions and traumas, tantrums or tears, anxiety or anger, I'm here to help. With specialized training in PC-CARE (Parent-Child Care), I'm here to offer you a supportive hand through the ups and downs of parenting in early childhood through a parent-child dyadic therapy model designed for both kids and their parents.
Are you a parent who believes in the transformative power of understanding your child's inner world? Are you committed to nurturing a strong and loving relationship with your little one, even amidst life's challenges? If so, you're in the right place. Whether your child is facing common behavioral issues, transitions and traumas, tantrums or tears, anxiety or anger, I'm here to help. With specialized training in PC-CARE (Parent-Child Care), I'm here to offer you a supportive hand through the ups and downs of parenting in early childhood through a parent-child dyadic therapy model designed for both kids and their parents.
(323) 859-1268 View (323) 859-1268
Photo of Holly A. Freeling, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly A. Freeling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are you ready to take the next step toward changing your life? As a dynamic and innovative therapist, I blend research-driven techniques with creative strategies to accelerate your progress. My approach is personal, energetic, and empathetic, ensuring you feel supported as you share your thoughts and feelings in complete confidence. I’ll clearly explain each step of our process, empowering you to use tools effectively and see faster results. Together, we’ll cultivate a genuine and meaningful therapeutic relationship to help you achieve your goals.
Are you ready to take the next step toward changing your life? As a dynamic and innovative therapist, I blend research-driven techniques with creative strategies to accelerate your progress. My approach is personal, energetic, and empathetic, ensuring you feel supported as you share your thoughts and feelings in complete confidence. I’ll clearly explain each step of our process, empowering you to use tools effectively and see faster results. Together, we’ll cultivate a genuine and meaningful therapeutic relationship to help you achieve your goals.
(626) 376-3098 View (626) 376-3098
Photo of Mark Tinley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Tinley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Mark has 18 years of experience as a Licensed Therapist dedicated to supporting individuals and couples through difficult times. I can assess your situation systematically and come up with concrete plans to facilitate the changes you desire. That will include developing new skills to manage your emotions while developing more effective ways to communicate your wants and needs with others.
Mark has 18 years of experience as a Licensed Therapist dedicated to supporting individuals and couples through difficult times. I can assess your situation systematically and come up with concrete plans to facilitate the changes you desire. That will include developing new skills to manage your emotions while developing more effective ways to communicate your wants and needs with others.
(213) 238-5403 View (213) 238-5403
Photo of Oren Boxer, PhD, Psychologist
Oren Boxer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
As a clinical neuropsychologist, I specialize in the assessment of children and young adults when families have cognitive, behavioral, or educational concerns. The goal of the assessment process is to create a detailed learning profile and care plan to meet the unique needs of each child and family. I believe in treating the whole child, addressing cognitive and social-emotional aspects of their development. My holistic approach ensures that your child receives the most comprehensive care available.
As a clinical neuropsychologist, I specialize in the assessment of children and young adults when families have cognitive, behavioral, or educational concerns. The goal of the assessment process is to create a detailed learning profile and care plan to meet the unique needs of each child and family. I believe in treating the whole child, addressing cognitive and social-emotional aspects of their development. My holistic approach ensures that your child receives the most comprehensive care available.
(626) 513-8210 View (626) 513-8210
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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.