Autism Therapists in California

Photo of Erika Rodgers, MEd, BCBA
Erika Rodgers
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I provide parent training and behavioral consultations to parents who are struggling to manage their child's behavior in home, public, or school settings. Some of the issues I address are tantrums, aggression, how to increase cooperation/following directions, toilet training, social-skill development, autism related issues, and much more. I empower parents by giving them effective strategies and ongoing support to tackle these behaviors.
I provide parent training and behavioral consultations to parents who are struggling to manage their child's behavior in home, public, or school settings. Some of the issues I address are tantrums, aggression, how to increase cooperation/following directions, toilet training, social-skill development, autism related issues, and much more. I empower parents by giving them effective strategies and ongoing support to tackle these behaviors.
(760) 417-4086 View (760) 417-4086
Photo of Francis Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Francis Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503
I also have extensive experience in working with children who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I have provided therapy to children, adolescents, individuals and families for the last 7 years and in the last 4 years I have primarily focused on working with children, adolescents and families. In the years since I have been practicing I have been able to work with clients who have presented with various diagnosis and issues some of which include Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Emotion-Regulation, Social Skills difficulties, Peer and Self-Esteem Issues. I work collaboratively with individuals to ensure that treatment is tailored to address the specific needs of every individual client I see.
I also have extensive experience in working with children who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I have provided therapy to children, adolescents, individuals and families for the last 7 years and in the last 4 years I have primarily focused on working with children, adolescents and families. In the years since I have been practicing I have been able to work with clients who have presented with various diagnosis and issues some of which include Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Emotion-Regulation, Social Skills difficulties, Peer and Self-Esteem Issues. I work collaboratively with individuals to ensure that treatment is tailored to address the specific needs of every individual client I see.
(310) 742-9452 View (310) 742-9452
Photo of Alina Bright - Bright Idea Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Bright Idea Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Dr. Bright is a Child Psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with High Functioning Autism previously known as Asperger Syndrome. Dr.Bright also has extensive training, education and experience working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, grief and loss. In her practice, Dr.Bright relies on evidence-based interventions to teach children copings skills to manage difficult situations and re-gain their self esteem.
Dr. Bright is a Child Psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with High Functioning Autism previously known as Asperger Syndrome. Dr.Bright also has extensive training, education and experience working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, grief and loss. In her practice, Dr.Bright relies on evidence-based interventions to teach children copings skills to manage difficult situations and re-gain their self esteem.
(949) 531-7306 View (949) 531-7306
Photo of Dariah Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dariah Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My caseload comprised of individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as individuals that are seeking support in grief/loss.
Welcome! I'm so glad that you're here. If you've ever felt "stuck," or that you don't have a next step or a sense of direction, I hear you. Life can be extremely unpredictable, and it causes us to feel like we're not prepared or equipped to handle the ebbs and flows of life. Not only do we have present life events, but we also have our past experiences and extraneous factors that are on this walk with us. Let's work together to create a space free of judgment. You deserve a healing space and the chance to create one within yourself. We'll work on permitting ourselves to experience our feelings fully and completely.
My caseload comprised of individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as individuals that are seeking support in grief/loss.
Welcome! I'm so glad that you're here. If you've ever felt "stuck," or that you don't have a next step or a sense of direction, I hear you. Life can be extremely unpredictable, and it causes us to feel like we're not prepared or equipped to handle the ebbs and flows of life. Not only do we have present life events, but we also have our past experiences and extraneous factors that are on this walk with us. Let's work together to create a space free of judgment. You deserve a healing space and the chance to create one within yourself. We'll work on permitting ourselves to experience our feelings fully and completely.
(562) 362-5752 View (562) 362-5752
Photo of Tamar Lisa Apelian, PsyD, Psychologist
Tamar Lisa Apelian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
In my prior training and career at UCLA, I achieved both clinical and research level reliability on gold standard autism diagnostic measures.
In many situations, family members or individuals become concerned about a loved one's or their own development or mental health. My practice, Achieving Milestones & Progress (A.M.P.) Autism, helps families or individuals to understand and improve their loved one's or their own developmental or psychiatric needs through comprehensive evaluations and/or treatments. In doing so, it is hoped that individuals of all ages and functioning levels can reach their full potentials and continue to make progress and grow throughout the lifespan. Families will also be better equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to facilitate that process.
In my prior training and career at UCLA, I achieved both clinical and research level reliability on gold standard autism diagnostic measures.
In many situations, family members or individuals become concerned about a loved one's or their own development or mental health. My practice, Achieving Milestones & Progress (A.M.P.) Autism, helps families or individuals to understand and improve their loved one's or their own developmental or psychiatric needs through comprehensive evaluations and/or treatments. In doing so, it is hoped that individuals of all ages and functioning levels can reach their full potentials and continue to make progress and grow throughout the lifespan. Families will also be better equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to facilitate that process.
(818) 722-2089 View (818) 722-2089
Photo of Vanessa C Fontes, PsyD, Psychologist
Vanessa C Fontes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
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 Mariya Kriv, MA, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariya Kriv
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFTI
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91602  (Online Only)
In addition to being a passionate and compassionate therapist, I went through extensive training at Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior at UCLA where I received a hands-on experience as a research assistant at PEERS treatment program working with teenagers and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. As a graduate of Antioch University Los Angeles specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, I am currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among my areas of expertise are romantic, work and social relationships, compulsive gambling and other kinds of addictions, , self esteem, life and social skills, depression, anxiety, trauma and various mood and personality disorders.
In addition to being a passionate and compassionate therapist, I went through extensive training at Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior at UCLA where I received a hands-on experience as a research assistant at PEERS treatment program working with teenagers and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. As a graduate of Antioch University Los Angeles specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, I am currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among my areas of expertise are romantic, work and social relationships, compulsive gambling and other kinds of addictions, , self esteem, life and social skills, depression, anxiety, trauma and various mood and personality disorders.
(323) 515-1216 View (323) 515-1216
Photo of Hannah Acevedo, MS, LEP, ABSNP, BCBA
Hannah Acevedo
MS, LEP, ABSNP, BCBA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about using best practices in school neuropsychological assessment and behavior analysis to guide my approach to working with a variety of conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disabilties (Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, NVLD), genetic or medical diagnoses, seizure disorders, motor-speech disorders, and chromosomal variations.
Are you struggling to navigate the educational system to get help for learning or behavioral challenges? I am here to help support parents and students, making the pathway to success for your particular situation more clear and manageable. I specialize in assessment and intervention planning for a range of pediatric disorders that affect learning and behavior. I take care to make the entire consultation or assessment process feel positive, understandable and helpful. I provide School Neuropsychological assessments, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans, and consultation around educational and behavior issues at school or at home.
I am passionate about using best practices in school neuropsychological assessment and behavior analysis to guide my approach to working with a variety of conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disabilties (Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, NVLD), genetic or medical diagnoses, seizure disorders, motor-speech disorders, and chromosomal variations.
Are you struggling to navigate the educational system to get help for learning or behavioral challenges? I am here to help support parents and students, making the pathway to success for your particular situation more clear and manageable. I specialize in assessment and intervention planning for a range of pediatric disorders that affect learning and behavior. I take care to make the entire consultation or assessment process feel positive, understandable and helpful. I provide School Neuropsychological assessments, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans, and consultation around educational and behavior issues at school or at home.
(510) 683-5930 View (510) 683-5930
Photo of Dennis Mullenix - Mullenix Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mullenix Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92501  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dennis Mullenix, an LMFT with a heartfelt dedication to supporting those with Autism and ADHD as well as their families. With over 14 years of experience in the field, I bring a unique perspective as both an adult with late diagnosed AuDHD and as a father of a child who also lives with AuDHD. I deeply understand the challenges and strengths associated with these conditions. I specialize in helping those facing the complexities of Autism, ADHD and AuDHD. Whether you're navigating communication barriers, relationship dynamics, workplace challenges, or personal growth goals, my approach is rooted in empathy.
Hello, I'm Dennis Mullenix, an LMFT with a heartfelt dedication to supporting those with Autism and ADHD as well as their families. With over 14 years of experience in the field, I bring a unique perspective as both an adult with late diagnosed AuDHD and as a father of a child who also lives with AuDHD. I deeply understand the challenges and strengths associated with these conditions. I specialize in helping those facing the complexities of Autism, ADHD and AuDHD. Whether you're navigating communication barriers, relationship dynamics, workplace challenges, or personal growth goals, my approach is rooted in empathy.
(909) 324-5218 View (909) 324-5218
Photo of Taylor Baldwin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taylor Baldwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Davis, CA 95616  (Online Only)
I also have experience providing sensitive and trauma-informed care to people with PTSD, autism, ADHD, psychosis, etc.
Therapy can be a powerful tool in deepening relationships, moving through pain, tolerating discomfort, and understanding the unknown! My therapeutic work is rooted in guiding clients to realize their own potential. I develop an empathic, therapeutic relationship with my clients to generate self-directed change. By meeting you where you are at, and helping you see parts of yourself that may feel inaccessible, we can move toward you living life the way you want to.
I also have experience providing sensitive and trauma-informed care to people with PTSD, autism, ADHD, psychosis, etc.
Therapy can be a powerful tool in deepening relationships, moving through pain, tolerating discomfort, and understanding the unknown! My therapeutic work is rooted in guiding clients to realize their own potential. I develop an empathic, therapeutic relationship with my clients to generate self-directed change. By meeting you where you are at, and helping you see parts of yourself that may feel inaccessible, we can move toward you living life the way you want to.
(530) 364-5429 View (530) 364-5429
Photo of Lori Mothersell, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Mothersell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I have extensive experience of Autism.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to achieve more satisfying, meaningful relationships and social adjustment. I believe therapy is a collaborative, creative process to unveil hidden strengths and courage to motivate change and create new experiences in your life. Creating a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and trusting enough to take personal and emotional risks is important. Through an eclectic approach best suited for my client, I have had success treating a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, past trauma, and grief/loss.
I have extensive experience of Autism.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to achieve more satisfying, meaningful relationships and social adjustment. I believe therapy is a collaborative, creative process to unveil hidden strengths and courage to motivate change and create new experiences in your life. Creating a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and trusting enough to take personal and emotional risks is important. Through an eclectic approach best suited for my client, I have had success treating a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, past trauma, and grief/loss.
(415) 689-9058 View (415) 689-9058
Photo of Dr. Keely Hirsch, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Keely Hirsch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
Testing for Autism and therapy can help provide validation and answers for what may help you succeed.
I specialize in working with neurodiverse adults through virtual therapy and formal Autism testing. I’ve worked with people on the Autism spectrum for a decade and served as the Autism specialist for two medical centers including Kaiser Santa Clara.
Testing for Autism and therapy can help provide validation and answers for what may help you succeed.
I specialize in working with neurodiverse adults through virtual therapy and formal Autism testing. I’ve worked with people on the Autism spectrum for a decade and served as the Autism specialist for two medical centers including Kaiser Santa Clara.
(408) 516-8740 View (408) 516-8740
Photo of Judith Tischler, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judith Tischler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95472
I provide integrative psychotherapy for adults, couples, teens and families. I incorporate empirically validated methods in our work together. These include EMDR, CBT, DBT, and humanistic modalities for individuals and the Gottman method, EFT, and Imago Relationship Therapy for couples and families. Your concerns are my focus as we work together to develop solutions. I offer parenting support, divorce support, and grief support for individuals and families. I am also uniquely experienced in working with families and individuals with special needs, especially youth and adults with ADHD and those on the Autism Spectrum.
I provide integrative psychotherapy for adults, couples, teens and families. I incorporate empirically validated methods in our work together. These include EMDR, CBT, DBT, and humanistic modalities for individuals and the Gottman method, EFT, and Imago Relationship Therapy for couples and families. Your concerns are my focus as we work together to develop solutions. I offer parenting support, divorce support, and grief support for individuals and families. I am also uniquely experienced in working with families and individuals with special needs, especially youth and adults with ADHD and those on the Autism Spectrum.
(707) 786-6372 View (707) 786-6372
Photo of Miranda Millican - Miranda Millican, PDA Affirming Therapist , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miranda Millican, PDA Affirming Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
Welcome! I work with autistic people and those who love them! I have personal experience in this area, I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic/PDA) therapist who is a parent to a "neurospicy" PDA chid. PDA is pathological demand avoidance, or as I like to call it “persistent drive for autonomy". Although not yet an official diagnosis in the US, my goal is to create community and support around folks who identify themselves with these traits. I support pre-teens, teens, adults, and couples/families around autism, PDA and ADHD and better understanding and communicating their needs to others.
Welcome! I work with autistic people and those who love them! I have personal experience in this area, I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic/PDA) therapist who is a parent to a "neurospicy" PDA chid. PDA is pathological demand avoidance, or as I like to call it “persistent drive for autonomy". Although not yet an official diagnosis in the US, my goal is to create community and support around folks who identify themselves with these traits. I support pre-teens, teens, adults, and couples/families around autism, PDA and ADHD and better understanding and communicating their needs to others.
(619) 853-2637 View (619) 853-2637
Photo of Gary Michael Larkin, MA, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gary Michael Larkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children with disabilities and their families, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, learning and behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction,adoption issues, Men's Issues, infertility, victims and perpetrators of crime and abuse, individuals, couples, families, and groups, and those with depression related to careers in Show Business.
I have been licensed for 18 years, and have worked with various populations. I am a client-centered behaviorist; meaning I help people change behaviors by presenting them with coping strategies and communication skills to help deal with life on life's terms. I use my experience, as well as professional life as a special education teacher for the last 22 years, a 48 year marriage, and 35 years of a personal 12-Step Program to guide my theoretical orientation to help change distorted thinking into positive choices. I listen with empathy, and offer suggestions for hope and change. .
I specialize in working with children with disabilities and their families, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, learning and behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction,adoption issues, Men's Issues, infertility, victims and perpetrators of crime and abuse, individuals, couples, families, and groups, and those with depression related to careers in Show Business.
I have been licensed for 18 years, and have worked with various populations. I am a client-centered behaviorist; meaning I help people change behaviors by presenting them with coping strategies and communication skills to help deal with life on life's terms. I use my experience, as well as professional life as a special education teacher for the last 22 years, a 48 year marriage, and 35 years of a personal 12-Step Program to guide my theoretical orientation to help change distorted thinking into positive choices. I listen with empathy, and offer suggestions for hope and change. .
(818) 351-7146 View (818) 351-7146
Photo of Kylie Duty, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kylie Duty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95118
I specialize in individuals with Autism, ADHD, co-morbid diagnoses, and those who have experienced trauma.
I work with clients who struggle to find happiness in their lives because they feel burdened by things that are out of their control. I enjoy helping clients find fulfillment no matter where they are in life. I hope to help my clients improve their self-esteem, reduce their stress levels, increase their understanding of themselves, and learn valuable stress management tools they can use outside of the therapy room.
I specialize in individuals with Autism, ADHD, co-morbid diagnoses, and those who have experienced trauma.
I work with clients who struggle to find happiness in their lives because they feel burdened by things that are out of their control. I enjoy helping clients find fulfillment no matter where they are in life. I hope to help my clients improve their self-esteem, reduce their stress levels, increase their understanding of themselves, and learn valuable stress management tools they can use outside of the therapy room.
(669) 322-4204 View (669) 322-4204
Photo of Ashley Elefant Baratz, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Elefant Baratz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in assessment and therapy for neurodivergent individuals throughout the lifespan, with a specific focus on working with ADHDers and Autistic individuals. Through strengths-based assessment and therapy services, my goal is to provide comprehensive resources and tailored skills to help neurodivergent individuals get their needs met and thrive in a world that oftentimes feels as if it is working against them. As an ADHDer myself who has spent my career seeking ongoing training on ADHD and Autism, I bring many years of personal and professional experience to the clients that I serve.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in assessment and therapy for neurodivergent individuals throughout the lifespan, with a specific focus on working with ADHDers and Autistic individuals. Through strengths-based assessment and therapy services, my goal is to provide comprehensive resources and tailored skills to help neurodivergent individuals get their needs met and thrive in a world that oftentimes feels as if it is working against them. As an ADHDer myself who has spent my career seeking ongoing training on ADHD and Autism, I bring many years of personal and professional experience to the clients that I serve.
(925) 258-2458 View (925) 258-2458
Photo of Wendy Boring-Bray - Dr. Wendy Boring-Bray, DBH, LPCC
Dr. Wendy Boring-Bray
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, DBH, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
Learning about autism, anxiety, and masking will help you work through pesky emotions and regain your sense of self.
Are you an adult with autism? Me too! Feel Anxious? Anxiety can be so overwhelming! Tired of masking? Ruminating thoughts? Feeling like nothing is going right? Having a hard time focusing? Out of sync in your relationship? Yep! Anxiety can do that! How would your life look if you were able to stop all of the internal chatter going on in your mind? Sound like it's impossible? Believe it or not, this IS possible; you CAN stop the internal chatter and start feeling more like yourself. Anxiety is not you; it is a feeling you are going through, and sometimes, it can hang around longer than you want it to. Ready to send it packing?
Learning about autism, anxiety, and masking will help you work through pesky emotions and regain your sense of self.
Are you an adult with autism? Me too! Feel Anxious? Anxiety can be so overwhelming! Tired of masking? Ruminating thoughts? Feeling like nothing is going right? Having a hard time focusing? Out of sync in your relationship? Yep! Anxiety can do that! How would your life look if you were able to stop all of the internal chatter going on in your mind? Sound like it's impossible? Believe it or not, this IS possible; you CAN stop the internal chatter and start feeling more like yourself. Anxiety is not you; it is a feeling you are going through, and sometimes, it can hang around longer than you want it to. Ready to send it packing?
(949) 390-5766 View (949) 390-5766
Photo of Joanna Cain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanna Cain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Hey there, I'm Joanna Cain, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in Los Angeles California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. With years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages, and different walks of life, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and autism that interfere with those relationships and daily life demands. Assisting clients to identify their own needs and providing them with the skills needed to achieve their goals is my approach.
Hey there, I'm Joanna Cain, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in Los Angeles California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. With years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages, and different walks of life, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and autism that interfere with those relationships and daily life demands. Assisting clients to identify their own needs and providing them with the skills needed to achieve their goals is my approach.
(951) 724-3972 View (951) 724-3972
Photo of Julie Kangas, PhD, Psychologist
Julie Kangas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in therapy for Autistic adults. Whether you’ve known you were Autistic your whole life, are newly diagnosed, or self-diagnosed, I can meet you where you’re at in this journey. I believe it is the journey of a lifetime to learn to live in your own body and care for yourself well. I want to help you meet your goals with compassion and the most up-to-date science. We now know that autism doesn’t look the way our culture often expects it to, and we see the harms of treatment models that aim to make you fit in with the neurotypical world. It’s hard living in a world that was not created for you or by you.
I specialize in therapy for Autistic adults. Whether you’ve known you were Autistic your whole life, are newly diagnosed, or self-diagnosed, I can meet you where you’re at in this journey. I believe it is the journey of a lifetime to learn to live in your own body and care for yourself well. I want to help you meet your goals with compassion and the most up-to-date science. We now know that autism doesn’t look the way our culture often expects it to, and we see the harms of treatment models that aim to make you fit in with the neurotypical world. It’s hard living in a world that was not created for you or by you.
(858) 771-2591 View (858) 771-2591
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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.