Therapists in Valley Center, CA
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I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
![Photo of Tsueyhwa Pan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24798305-1bd2-4da5-aa23-f28b808af275/2/320x400.png)
My name is Sarina Pan and I am a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Los Angeles area. I work with adolescents and adults across all ages. I help people experience relief from shame, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, and inner criticism through self-understanding, self-exploring, and self-compassion. Hearing people out and providing support and guidance to them to walk out from the life struggles is my true life passion.
My name is Sarina Pan and I am a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Los Angeles area. I work with adolescents and adults across all ages. I help people experience relief from shame, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, and inner criticism through self-understanding, self-exploring, and self-compassion. Hearing people out and providing support and guidance to them to walk out from the life struggles is my true life passion.
![Photo of Kere Blair, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b38cf4c-d325-4c5a-89c3-51421bb2e7a6/1/320x400.png)
Kere has been working in the mental health field for over 10 years and has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2016. Kere is also a Clinical Director of an Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Center. Kere is passionate about health and also enjoys spending her free time teaching fitness and dance classes. Growing up in Virginia, Kere was frustrated by the disconnect she saw between physical and mental health. Kere began to study and explore the role that exercise, movement and mental health therapy had on her overall health as well as those around her.
Kere has been working in the mental health field for over 10 years and has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2016. Kere is also a Clinical Director of an Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Center. Kere is passionate about health and also enjoys spending her free time teaching fitness and dance classes. Growing up in Virginia, Kere was frustrated by the disconnect she saw between physical and mental health. Kere began to study and explore the role that exercise, movement and mental health therapy had on her overall health as well as those around her.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Heather J Hall, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53421012-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal as a therapist is to strengthen healthy bonds, relationships and communication within families for children and their parents. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who currently works at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles with a specialization in school age children and developmental disabilities. I have worked extensively with children who struggle with symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety and autism who need support in managing the everyday social complexities that they face within their school, family and community environments.
My goal as a therapist is to strengthen healthy bonds, relationships and communication within families for children and their parents. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who currently works at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles with a specialization in school age children and developmental disabilities. I have worked extensively with children who struggle with symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety and autism who need support in managing the everyday social complexities that they face within their school, family and community environments.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Loyola, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f463d27-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in assessing for neurodevelopmental disabilities, like Autism and ADHD, among other mental health challenges.
Working with children, teens, and caregivers is a unique opportunity to provide families with support during an important time in life. Using a collaborative and empathic approach, I work hard alongside my clients to make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. It's important to meet each person where they are at and help them meet their unique goals. In addition to my private practice, I am on faculty with UC Davis Health, where I provide virtual therapy and supervise and teach psychology trainees and psychiatry residents.
I specialize in assessing for neurodevelopmental disabilities, like Autism and ADHD, among other mental health challenges.
Working with children, teens, and caregivers is a unique opportunity to provide families with support during an important time in life. Using a collaborative and empathic approach, I work hard alongside my clients to make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. It's important to meet each person where they are at and help them meet their unique goals. In addition to my private practice, I am on faculty with UC Davis Health, where I provide virtual therapy and supervise and teach psychology trainees and psychiatry residents.
![Photo of Anne Cona, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd3edf4-740b-47a9-a43f-fe29ba203c25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Cona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW TELE-HEALTH CLIENTS. I specialize in working with people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, LGBTQ+ concerns, Trauma, Substance Use, Academic and Life Transitions, Relationship issues, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Low Self-esteem. If your daily functioning is being impacted and you are struggling, participating in therapy can help you learn healthy ways of coping. As a mindfulness psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people by creating a warm and non-judgmental environment and supporting them to live more fulfilled lives.
ACCEPTING NEW TELE-HEALTH CLIENTS. I specialize in working with people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, LGBTQ+ concerns, Trauma, Substance Use, Academic and Life Transitions, Relationship issues, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Low Self-esteem. If your daily functioning is being impacted and you are struggling, participating in therapy can help you learn healthy ways of coping. As a mindfulness psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people by creating a warm and non-judgmental environment and supporting them to live more fulfilled lives.
![Photo of Marissa Gran, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27c050cc-c133-4cf0-8f1f-55dccaab1399/8/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating children who have experienced trauma, children with attachment difficulties, children diagnosed with Autism, and I also specialize in treating children with behavioral problems of all severities.
I work for all kinds of children and their families. After doing this for 12 years it's pretty simple - my ideal client is someone who needs to get better and is ready to get some help to do so.
I specialize in treating children who have experienced trauma, children with attachment difficulties, children diagnosed with Autism, and I also specialize in treating children with behavioral problems of all severities.
I work for all kinds of children and their families. After doing this for 12 years it's pretty simple - my ideal client is someone who needs to get better and is ready to get some help to do so.
![Photo of Cynthia A. Levy, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439fc0c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
e healthy relationships/DV); Anxiety/Depression/Mood Disorders; Addictions; suicidality & self-harm; Autism Spectrum (social skills); Tricotillomania; ADHD; Tourette's.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
e healthy relationships/DV); Anxiety/Depression/Mood Disorders; Addictions; suicidality & self-harm; Autism Spectrum (social skills); Tricotillomania; ADHD; Tourette's.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
![Photo of Darshawn Hooker - Darshawn Hooker, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dfb9984-d3fb-41b0-9544-c9d16afe01d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Years of experience with children on the Autism spectrum or with ADHD, teens struggling with self esteem or identity issues and families dealing with separation, grief/loss & adults facing major life changes such as bereavement or sudden trauma.
Are you looking for a safe, bias free space to find tools to enhance the quality of your relationships and life? Seeking guidance to maneuver through changes with your career, relationships or life in general? Want someone that will focus on your strengths to help you fortify your sense of self? I'd love to partner with you on your healing journey. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and we simply need someone to help us navigate the feelings that come up. Allow me an opportunity to provide you a unique therapeutic relationship that strengthens you.
Years of experience with children on the Autism spectrum or with ADHD, teens struggling with self esteem or identity issues and families dealing with separation, grief/loss & adults facing major life changes such as bereavement or sudden trauma.
Are you looking for a safe, bias free space to find tools to enhance the quality of your relationships and life? Seeking guidance to maneuver through changes with your career, relationships or life in general? Want someone that will focus on your strengths to help you fortify your sense of self? I'd love to partner with you on your healing journey. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and we simply need someone to help us navigate the feelings that come up. Allow me an opportunity to provide you a unique therapeutic relationship that strengthens you.
![Photo of Emily Rebecca Ward, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26cac8db-a5cf-4467-a29b-7745a96bc1f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Rebecca Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064 (Online Only)
I have experience working with youth and adults on the Autism Spectrum.
Are you ready to stop feeling anxious and/or depressed? Do you want to learn skills to calm your racing mind? Do you remember a time when anxiety, depression, & personal issues weren’t a part of your daily life? I can give you the tools and coping skills to change this. I help children/teenagers, couples, and individuals just like you: ones that have it within them to learn how to cope with their anxiety or depression and go back to living life the way that they remember it. I can support you on your journey towards feeling more self-confident, happy, fulfilled. I can help to guide you to a better understanding of yourself & others.
I have experience working with youth and adults on the Autism Spectrum.
Are you ready to stop feeling anxious and/or depressed? Do you want to learn skills to calm your racing mind? Do you remember a time when anxiety, depression, & personal issues weren’t a part of your daily life? I can give you the tools and coping skills to change this. I help children/teenagers, couples, and individuals just like you: ones that have it within them to learn how to cope with their anxiety or depression and go back to living life the way that they remember it. I can support you on your journey towards feeling more self-confident, happy, fulfilled. I can help to guide you to a better understanding of yourself & others.
![Photo of Chrystal C Maher - Our Kids Developmental Services, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1542b986-b6cb-4466-bdec-4cc97bb46425/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
We provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and Autism.
Our Kids Developmental Services provides quality behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 12 months - 22 years old. We work with children and their parents to help improve coping skills and learn new ways to navigate through challenges. We offer in-person Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a play-based environment for young children. We also offer services to tweens and teens in a comfortable office environment or via telehealth. Neuropsychological Assessment services are also available. We are dedicated to making behavioral health services accessible and are in-network for several insurance plans.
![Photo of T.j. Vanmarter, MA, BCBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53455c6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
T.j. Vanmarter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BCBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
I have over 13 years of experience in treating individuals with a variety of mood disorders, neurodivergency (ADHD, Autism, etc), academic and behavioral disorders, and managing life transitions (work, school, relationships, grief, etc).
You've probably found this page because you feel "stuck" in life. Maybe you're a parent who is challenged by their child's unique behavioral, emotional or academic needs and want help navigating them. Perhaps you're entering a life transition, such as entering or exiting a romantic relationship, going to college, or getting a new job and want emotional support and validation. My goal is to help individuals, families and couples find insight into their challenges, cope through distressful situations, and, in effect, become their own therapist.
I have over 13 years of experience in treating individuals with a variety of mood disorders, neurodivergency (ADHD, Autism, etc), academic and behavioral disorders, and managing life transitions (work, school, relationships, grief, etc).
You've probably found this page because you feel "stuck" in life. Maybe you're a parent who is challenged by their child's unique behavioral, emotional or academic needs and want help navigating them. Perhaps you're entering a life transition, such as entering or exiting a romantic relationship, going to college, or getting a new job and want emotional support and validation. My goal is to help individuals, families and couples find insight into their challenges, cope through distressful situations, and, in effect, become their own therapist.
![Photo of Brenda Wilkinson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b16dc57-74c0-4f8f-80cb-32bef1a3684b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have additional training in the areas of autism, childhood behavior issues, and preschoolers.
As a therapist and parenting coach, I have devoted my career to helping people change their lives in positive ways. These changes can involve assisting parents in altering the problematic behavior of their children, coaching to achieve life goals, or overcoming troublesome habits. I use a positive, solution-oriented approach to maximize performance and help people solve the problems in their lives. I use a combination of individual, couples and family based work to allow the whole family to be part of the solution.
I have additional training in the areas of autism, childhood behavior issues, and preschoolers.
As a therapist and parenting coach, I have devoted my career to helping people change their lives in positive ways. These changes can involve assisting parents in altering the problematic behavior of their children, coaching to achieve life goals, or overcoming troublesome habits. I use a positive, solution-oriented approach to maximize performance and help people solve the problems in their lives. I use a combination of individual, couples and family based work to allow the whole family to be part of the solution.
![Photo of Deanna Dow - Spectrum Psych | Los Angeles, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9592682d-1df1-4577-9734-7cb8376890b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clinicians in our practice have trained at top programs specializing in the assessment and intervention of neurodivergent individuals, with primary focus on autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, behavioral challenges, anxiety, and mood concerns.
We offer coordinated mental health care, including diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy, psychiatry, occupational therapy, group therapy, and support groups. We help children, adolescents, and adults improve their ability to regulate their emotions, target anxiety and depression, increase flexibility, bolster executive functioning, improve friendships and social relationships, and build independent living skills. We also offer parent support services to build connection and decrease challenging behaviors at home, usually empirically-based strategies. Treatment is always individualized to target specific goals based on unique needs.
Clinicians in our practice have trained at top programs specializing in the assessment and intervention of neurodivergent individuals, with primary focus on autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, behavioral challenges, anxiety, and mood concerns.
We offer coordinated mental health care, including diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy, psychiatry, occupational therapy, group therapy, and support groups. We help children, adolescents, and adults improve their ability to regulate their emotions, target anxiety and depression, increase flexibility, bolster executive functioning, improve friendships and social relationships, and build independent living skills. We also offer parent support services to build connection and decrease challenging behaviors at home, usually empirically-based strategies. Treatment is always individualized to target specific goals based on unique needs.
![Photo of Kelley N Bowers, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13548bdb-770a-4e34-be54-641386d751f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelley N Bowers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92883
Choosing the right therapist can be difficult, but I believe making the first step to reach out is the right one. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers. I believe everyone has the ability to find healing through the sharing of their story. I have been working with individuals who have Autism for 20 + years, and I am able to help families navigate this journey with a wide range of understanding and perspective.
Choosing the right therapist can be difficult, but I believe making the first step to reach out is the right one. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers. I believe everyone has the ability to find healing through the sharing of their story. I have been working with individuals who have Autism for 20 + years, and I am able to help families navigate this journey with a wide range of understanding and perspective.
![Photo of Renee Ward, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23f4a27a-797e-46a0-9b96-db3cba725f64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Renee and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, neurodivergent issues related to ADHD/Autism/Asperger's, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. I am neurodiversity and gender affirming. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
Hello! I'm Renee and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, neurodivergent issues related to ADHD/Autism/Asperger's, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. I am neurodiversity and gender affirming. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
![Photo of Liza McCorkle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37028f39-cbfe-40e7-8784-615e89bee7c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liza McCorkle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Watching your teen struggle with anxiety, low self-esteem, or school stress can leave you feeling helpless. As a parent, I understand how heartbreaking it is to see your adolescent in pain. With empathy and expertise in anxiety, depression, autism, and ADHD, I provide a safe and supportive space for your child to heal and grow. Together, we’ll navigate these challenges, helping them build confidence, strengthen relationships, focus better in school, and face stress with more resilience. Imagine your child flourishing—filled with confidence, strength, and the resilience to embrace their full potential.
Watching your teen struggle with anxiety, low self-esteem, or school stress can leave you feeling helpless. As a parent, I understand how heartbreaking it is to see your adolescent in pain. With empathy and expertise in anxiety, depression, autism, and ADHD, I provide a safe and supportive space for your child to heal and grow. Together, we’ll navigate these challenges, helping them build confidence, strengthen relationships, focus better in school, and face stress with more resilience. Imagine your child flourishing—filled with confidence, strength, and the resilience to embrace their full potential.
![Photo of Jennifer Rugala Persicone - Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ee171fc-31c6-4ece-8963-7ff86a8dc9ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hemet, CA 92543
Waitlist for new clients
She has advanced training in ADHD, Autism and those with dual diagnoses of mental and physical health issues.
"Serenity is the tranquil balance of heart of mind" (H. Becker). Ana and Jennifer of Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center are here to assist you on that journey of finding your inner strength, inner peace, and personal serenity. Life isn't always what we planned due to trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress, but we each have in us the abilities to find solutions that will help make us more content and whole.
She has advanced training in ADHD, Autism and those with dual diagnoses of mental and physical health issues.
"Serenity is the tranquil balance of heart of mind" (H. Becker). Ana and Jennifer of Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center are here to assist you on that journey of finding your inner strength, inner peace, and personal serenity. Life isn't always what we planned due to trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress, but we each have in us the abilities to find solutions that will help make us more content and whole.
![Photo of Aliah Kristin Mestrovich Seay, LCMFT, MA, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31f950bb-44c6-4aef-939f-c5bdbdfcfe15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aliah Kristin Mestrovich Seay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92822
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns and identities including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism), and other developmental disabilities, vocational stress, chronic illness, women’s issues, infertility and disability-related work and school-place barriers. I have experience working with individuals from historically underrepresented underserved communities, international clients, interracial couples and families, women, immigrants/refugees as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns and identities including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism), and other developmental disabilities, vocational stress, chronic illness, women’s issues, infertility and disability-related work and school-place barriers. I have experience working with individuals from historically underrepresented underserved communities, international clients, interracial couples and families, women, immigrants/refugees as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Matt Newmyer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79162bca-356d-4e69-a324-b340a8c3ab3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily treat depression/anxiety, addiction (including screen/internet/gaming addiction), adults with autism spectrum disorder, and couple's issues (betrayal trauma, intimacy, etc.
CALL if you have a PPO insurance plan! I will teach you how to utilize it to get reimbursed for a provider of your choice! I provide warm, empathetic, and effective care to individuals, couples, and families using some of the best, scientifically validated methods available. My goal is to help you find quick relief while developing the kinds of solutions that have long term, positive results. Because everyone is different, I customize treatment to the specific needs of each person and I go at the client's desired pace.
I primarily treat depression/anxiety, addiction (including screen/internet/gaming addiction), adults with autism spectrum disorder, and couple's issues (betrayal trauma, intimacy, etc.
CALL if you have a PPO insurance plan! I will teach you how to utilize it to get reimbursed for a provider of your choice! I provide warm, empathetic, and effective care to individuals, couples, and families using some of the best, scientifically validated methods available. My goal is to help you find quick relief while developing the kinds of solutions that have long term, positive results. Because everyone is different, I customize treatment to the specific needs of each person and I go at the client's desired pace.
See more therapy options for Valley Center
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.