Autism Therapists in Aurora, CO
![Photo of Jennifer Geselevich, MS, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87e84f1b-b8f4-4ec4-847e-ec5801dbdcdd/2/320x400.jpeg)
With an expertise in couples, neurodivergence and trauma including but not limited to medical trauma, I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families going through difficult times and navigating new, difficult diagnosis' or dealing with any sort of trauma. Families often times need help understanding each other and feeling heard, and need direction and support in getting there. A lot of times a new diagnosis, from autism to cancer, a family needs help understanding what that means for each member of the family or navigating a new diagnosis on their own. I help in all areas of understanding and feeling heard.
With an expertise in couples, neurodivergence and trauma including but not limited to medical trauma, I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families going through difficult times and navigating new, difficult diagnosis' or dealing with any sort of trauma. Families often times need help understanding each other and feeling heard, and need direction and support in getting there. A lot of times a new diagnosis, from autism to cancer, a family needs help understanding what that means for each member of the family or navigating a new diagnosis on their own. I help in all areas of understanding and feeling heard.
![Photo of Dr. Kelly Cromer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/148042e8-346e-4447-adbc-f705727c27b5/1/320x400.png)
Women with ADHD and autism often come to me with insufficient or inaccurate diagnoses of anxiety, depression, or mood problems.
I provide full psychological evaluations for all genders ages 16 and up. My main areas of expertise include ADHD, ASD, and PTSD. I have real passion and talent for working with clients who have complex neurodivergence. I use this term to describe people who are neurodivergent in multiple ways or also have trauma to process. People with ADHD and autism have social skill differences that help us get along well with each other. However, we are sometimes pressured to mask important parts of ourselves to fit in with the neurotypical majority. I see you. Let's start where you are now and figure out how you want to grow from here.
Women with ADHD and autism often come to me with insufficient or inaccurate diagnoses of anxiety, depression, or mood problems.
I provide full psychological evaluations for all genders ages 16 and up. My main areas of expertise include ADHD, ASD, and PTSD. I have real passion and talent for working with clients who have complex neurodivergence. I use this term to describe people who are neurodivergent in multiple ways or also have trauma to process. People with ADHD and autism have social skill differences that help us get along well with each other. However, we are sometimes pressured to mask important parts of ourselves to fit in with the neurotypical majority. I see you. Let's start where you are now and figure out how you want to grow from here.
![Photo of Dana Cohen, MA, LPCC, RYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/385d0844-fd2a-45a3-ab71-1f8438397281/1/320x400.png)
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
![Photo of Kendra Sherwood - Rocky Mountain Behavioral Medicine, PhD, PsyD, MA, LPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5290173c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rocky Mountain Behavioral Medicine
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80014
We provide neurodevelopmental evaluations that test for learning disorders and ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations that look at brain functioning for those who have suffered a stroke, brain injury, or Alzheimer's, and psychological evaluations which can provide insight into the individual's behaviors and personality.
Our approach utilizes the biopsychosocial approach to evaluation and treatment; this means we strive to understand the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence the health and wellness of our clients. Our services are often referred to as "behavioral medicine" or "medical psychology;" this is due to taking a holistic approach in our treatment considering the whole person - physical, mental, emotional, and social. We often work collaboratively with other professions such as primary care physicians, occupational therapists, social workers, chaplains, and others who are important to one's individual network of care.
We provide neurodevelopmental evaluations that test for learning disorders and ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations that look at brain functioning for those who have suffered a stroke, brain injury, or Alzheimer's, and psychological evaluations which can provide insight into the individual's behaviors and personality.
Our approach utilizes the biopsychosocial approach to evaluation and treatment; this means we strive to understand the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence the health and wellness of our clients. Our services are often referred to as "behavioral medicine" or "medical psychology;" this is due to taking a holistic approach in our treatment considering the whole person - physical, mental, emotional, and social. We often work collaboratively with other professions such as primary care physicians, occupational therapists, social workers, chaplains, and others who are important to one's individual network of care.
![Photo of Caitlinn Abbott - Caitlinn Abbott (Accepting New Clients), BA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01b406e-42ea-4d8d-a702-2105153ff412/3/320x400.png)
Caitlinn Abbott (Accepting New Clients)
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80010
I have over 5 years experience working with ages 4-17 years old dealing with ADHD, Autism, behavioral challenges, abuse, foster placement, anxiety, and depression. I also have experience working with adults dealing with domestic violence, substance abuse, career guidance, anxiety, and depression. During our session together, I like to figure out areas to strengthen including goal setting, academic success, time management, social skills, trauma processing, and behavior management.
I have over 5 years experience working with ages 4-17 years old dealing with ADHD, Autism, behavioral challenges, abuse, foster placement, anxiety, and depression. I also have experience working with adults dealing with domestic violence, substance abuse, career guidance, anxiety, and depression. During our session together, I like to figure out areas to strengthen including goal setting, academic success, time management, social skills, trauma processing, and behavior management.
![Photo of Jessie Read - Serotiny Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53f8f146-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serotiny Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80013
For example, Psychology Today lists "transgender" and "autism" as "issues" alongside things like "depression" and "anxiety.
Hello! My name is Jessie Read (he/him) and I am a queer trans man. I run a therapy and training practice called Serotiny Counseling. We support individuals and parents. For more information please visit our website or our profile on Inclusive Therapists: www.inclusivetherapists.com. I am not accepting new clients at this time, but the other providers in my practice are! You can find their information on my website.
For example, Psychology Today lists "transgender" and "autism" as "issues" alongside things like "depression" and "anxiety.
Hello! My name is Jessie Read (he/him) and I am a queer trans man. I run a therapy and training practice called Serotiny Counseling. We support individuals and parents. For more information please visit our website or our profile on Inclusive Therapists: www.inclusivetherapists.com. I am not accepting new clients at this time, but the other providers in my practice are! You can find their information on my website.
![Photo of Ebony Johnson, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f17a057-6f4c-4c24-ad2f-83b37a94b95f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ebony Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
You have a human right to be heard. There is no right way to share, so take a seat and I will join you wherever you are. Is communication complicated? Maybe you are not meeting goals or getting your needs met at home, work, or school. Anxiety, trauma, family conflict and a host of other life challenges make the simplest efforts overwhelming. Whether you are braving depression, anxiety, autism, or some other challenge, we will explore your story together and identify your needs.
You have a human right to be heard. There is no right way to share, so take a seat and I will join you wherever you are. Is communication complicated? Maybe you are not meeting goals or getting your needs met at home, work, or school. Anxiety, trauma, family conflict and a host of other life challenges make the simplest efforts overwhelming. Whether you are braving depression, anxiety, autism, or some other challenge, we will explore your story together and identify your needs.
![Photo of Kenneth Schell, LPC, MA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9767f16d-2189-44ce-9327-5adb3fd2464d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a client-centered approach, specializing in adolescents and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Today’s adolescents face unique challenges, leading to higher rates of anxiety and depression. The influence of social media, the internet, climate change, and social upheaval complicates their growth. Despite their resilience, I support them with issues related to self-image, relationships, sexual development, academics, focus, and extracurriculars. I am also a RBT with extensive experience working with young people on the autism spectrum. To ease the challenges of office meetings, I offer virtual sessions from familiar environments. I focus on life skills, peer interactions, academics, coping tools, and independence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a client-centered approach, specializing in adolescents and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Today’s adolescents face unique challenges, leading to higher rates of anxiety and depression. The influence of social media, the internet, climate change, and social upheaval complicates their growth. Despite their resilience, I support them with issues related to self-image, relationships, sexual development, academics, focus, and extracurriculars. I am also a RBT with extensive experience working with young people on the autism spectrum. To ease the challenges of office meetings, I offer virtual sessions from familiar environments. I focus on life skills, peer interactions, academics, coping tools, and independence.
![Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b7da197-a634-45e6-8aca-f60363d1cc27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Violence/Abuse, IFS, EFT, Caregiver Support, Autism, Behavior probs, art therapy, life transitions, personality disorders, bariatric evaluations.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien! Email us with this info: In-person or telehealth, Insurance, Age, describe needs to be addressed.
Violence/Abuse, IFS, EFT, Caregiver Support, Autism, Behavior probs, art therapy, life transitions, personality disorders, bariatric evaluations.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien! Email us with this info: In-person or telehealth, Insurance, Age, describe needs to be addressed.
![Photo of Kaelin McClure, MT-BC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bdda155-2471-46d9-8f52-3593bec9622c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaelin McClure
Pre-Licensed Professional, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014 (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals of all ages with various need areas, including individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Dementia, Parkinson's and PTSD.
I am a national Board Certified Music Therapist with a passion to support individuals with mental health needs through music. I have struggled with my own mental health in the past and know how important it is to find a mode of therapy that empowers and motivates. Music is a powerful tool and I have have used it to help individuals with emotional regulation, self expression, increasing self-esteem and developing coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and stress. I know that music can be a safe and engaging way to facilitate positive mental health.
I have worked with individuals of all ages with various need areas, including individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Dementia, Parkinson's and PTSD.
I am a national Board Certified Music Therapist with a passion to support individuals with mental health needs through music. I have struggled with my own mental health in the past and know how important it is to find a mode of therapy that empowers and motivates. Music is a powerful tool and I have have used it to help individuals with emotional regulation, self expression, increasing self-esteem and developing coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and stress. I know that music can be a safe and engaging way to facilitate positive mental health.
![Photo of Breanna Graves, MA, LPC, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2910587-8dfa-47aa-b8f8-03a347fac2a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Breanna Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80010
I have worked in the mental health space for over 10 years and found a passion in helping individuals meet their goals. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, families, and adults with diagnoses including but not limited to adjustment/life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood concerns, behavioral concerns, Autism, trauma, crisis or dual diagnoses. My core training stems from a behavioral perspective and where a function of behavior may come from. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, and Behavior intervention.
I have worked in the mental health space for over 10 years and found a passion in helping individuals meet their goals. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, families, and adults with diagnoses including but not limited to adjustment/life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood concerns, behavioral concerns, Autism, trauma, crisis or dual diagnoses. My core training stems from a behavioral perspective and where a function of behavior may come from. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, and Behavior intervention.
15 Second Videos
Kelly Cromer
Leisha Tompkins
Shawna Urbanski
Gabriela Kirou
Michael Hardin
August (Formerly Heather) Tousignant-Stanton
Azenay Tell
Emily Gibson
Kelly Picune
Julia Jamison
Luz Navarrete
Danielle Jones
Cass Daniels
Felix J Lefevre
![Photo of Henrietta Pazos - New Horizons/Nuevos Horizontes, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1807d10-858c-4b01-82f7-2afcff982ec0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide testing services for Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia and individual and group therapy in English and Spanish. My Mission is: To provide quality mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults that will lead each individual to reach their fullest potential. I Believe that opening our mind and heart to explore new horizons will lead to a healthy mind and body. I Strive: To provide therapy and assessment services that are culturally responsive, strength-based and relevant to the individual's current work and/or school life and physical well-being.
I provide testing services for Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia and individual and group therapy in English and Spanish. My Mission is: To provide quality mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults that will lead each individual to reach their fullest potential. I Believe that opening our mind and heart to explore new horizons will lead to a healthy mind and body. I Strive: To provide therapy and assessment services that are culturally responsive, strength-based and relevant to the individual's current work and/or school life and physical well-being.
![Photo of Ebony Towner, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2b408b9-2fac-46f9-9e90-13c9edca54eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a psychotherapist for 4 years, and was previously a behavior therapist for children on the autism spectrum.
Schedule a free consult instantly through my website! (Link in my bio). Hi, I'm Ebony. Life is complex, confusing, and sometimes difficult. Your past has a way of interfering with your present life as well as your hopes and dreams for the future. You may experience relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, or other issues that affect your life. You may have a desire to know and show up as your authentic self more in your life. I provide a therapeutic space for you to process the difficulties of your past and present, and venture to understand the patterns that prevent you from having the life that you want.
I have been a psychotherapist for 4 years, and was previously a behavior therapist for children on the autism spectrum.
Schedule a free consult instantly through my website! (Link in my bio). Hi, I'm Ebony. Life is complex, confusing, and sometimes difficult. Your past has a way of interfering with your present life as well as your hopes and dreams for the future. You may experience relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, or other issues that affect your life. You may have a desire to know and show up as your authentic self more in your life. I provide a therapeutic space for you to process the difficulties of your past and present, and venture to understand the patterns that prevent you from having the life that you want.
![Photo of James Nguyen - Rocky Mountain Neuropsychology Consultants, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ca6f219-3c8a-4f49-aef7-0ea7569cb321/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our areas of specialty include traumatic brain injury, stroke, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, consultation, and supervision.
We are licensed clinical psychologists who specialize in providing assessment services. With extensive experience in traumatic brain injury, strokes, and various neurological, psychiatric, and developmental disorders, we offer comprehensive assessment services uniquely tailored to individuals and families.
Our areas of specialty include traumatic brain injury, stroke, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, consultation, and supervision.
We are licensed clinical psychologists who specialize in providing assessment services. With extensive experience in traumatic brain injury, strokes, and various neurological, psychiatric, and developmental disorders, we offer comprehensive assessment services uniquely tailored to individuals and families.
![Photo of Jade Huggins, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fd6e63c-afaa-4465-bde0-526333b0539f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jade Huggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80012 (Online Only)
Society constantly tells queer and neurodivergent folks they are the problem, when the truth is that crafting identity and authenticity for ourselves can be the greatest source of joy and strength. For so many of us it is a major accomplishment simply to be surviving, but you deserve to be thriving.
Society constantly tells queer and neurodivergent folks they are the problem, when the truth is that crafting identity and authenticity for ourselves can be the greatest source of joy and strength. For so many of us it is a major accomplishment simply to be surviving, but you deserve to be thriving.
![Photo of Anastasia Canfield, MM, MA, LPC, MT-BC, RPT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/972a6d98-67a4-4e13-9f49-f751aacf3b04/2/320x400.jpeg)
Only accepting music therapy clients currently! I am a Neurodivergent therapist. I have ADHD, combined type & PTSD so I understand the gravity of finding the right clinician for your specific needs. You deserve to receive unconditional positive regard. You deserve to be heard. You deserve therapy that meets your specific goals. I heavily subscribe to the Acceptance & Commitment Therapy framework, but pull from several different approaches to meet my clients where they are & support them in the ways they deem important. It is not my place to tell you what you need - I believe you already know & I am simply a guide along your journey.
Only accepting music therapy clients currently! I am a Neurodivergent therapist. I have ADHD, combined type & PTSD so I understand the gravity of finding the right clinician for your specific needs. You deserve to receive unconditional positive regard. You deserve to be heard. You deserve therapy that meets your specific goals. I heavily subscribe to the Acceptance & Commitment Therapy framework, but pull from several different approaches to meet my clients where they are & support them in the ways they deem important. It is not my place to tell you what you need - I believe you already know & I am simply a guide along your journey.
![Photo of Hannah Nurnberger, MA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d113ed53-77db-442c-83d9-c685d8ab7b52/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have shared my expertise with children and young adults with and without developmental disabilities and their families since 2006. I work alongside parents/adult caretakers to address the needs of clients who range in ages 18 months – 25 years. I have previously worked in private practice and at various residential, outpatient, educational, and in-home settings. I am a passionate advocate for my clients, their families, and future generations of certified clinicians. My desire is to consistently implement effective practices and compassionate care.
I have shared my expertise with children and young adults with and without developmental disabilities and their families since 2006. I work alongside parents/adult caretakers to address the needs of clients who range in ages 18 months – 25 years. I have previously worked in private practice and at various residential, outpatient, educational, and in-home settings. I am a passionate advocate for my clients, their families, and future generations of certified clinicians. My desire is to consistently implement effective practices and compassionate care.
![Photo of Lidia Kamionka - Autism West Behavior Partners, MA,](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baa4bf0a-d26c-485b-8da3-072338b871e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Lidia Kamionka and I have worked with a wide range of individuals from toddlers to adults. My primary areas of interest include social skills, adaptive living skills, self-advocacy, functional communication training (FCT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I am passionate about helping all our clients, and want to make a difference that will benefit them in all aspects of their lives. I believe that ABA is the best approach to helping make this happen.
Hi, my name is Lidia Kamionka and I have worked with a wide range of individuals from toddlers to adults. My primary areas of interest include social skills, adaptive living skills, self-advocacy, functional communication training (FCT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I am passionate about helping all our clients, and want to make a difference that will benefit them in all aspects of their lives. I believe that ABA is the best approach to helping make this happen.
![Photo of Mark R Pennick - Full Spectrum Therapeutic Services LLC, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bb015a3-138f-4244-9521-4d12ac7b0d2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I find that my clients appreciate being listened to with acceptance, and that the focus on strengths is key in my practice. I apply a variety of evidenced based best practices that I have found treat a diversity of populations and challenges. The clients that come to me are seeking to be able to function and achieve their goals. My clients are provided outstanding clinical support, engendering valued action by providing: assessment and diagnosis (including ADOS), individual treatment planning, and comprehensive intervention.
I find that my clients appreciate being listened to with acceptance, and that the focus on strengths is key in my practice. I apply a variety of evidenced based best practices that I have found treat a diversity of populations and challenges. The clients that come to me are seeking to be able to function and achieve their goals. My clients are provided outstanding clinical support, engendering valued action by providing: assessment and diagnosis (including ADOS), individual treatment planning, and comprehensive intervention.
![Photo of Scarlett Betters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6933e80-4728-4929-9026-0bf41bd47ef0/1/320x400.png)
Scarlett Betters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80011 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my role is to guide you to achieving your personal treatment goals to live a happy & fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma and use EMDR therapy for treatment. I also have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes & transitions such as divorce, school/job changes, relocations, & friendship/relationship challenges. I meet you where you are in your journey & determine the therapeutic modality after getting to know you & your needs. I have been a Psychotherapist for over 15 years & am passionate about helping people reach their full potential in life!
As a therapist, my role is to guide you to achieving your personal treatment goals to live a happy & fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma and use EMDR therapy for treatment. I also have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes & transitions such as divorce, school/job changes, relocations, & friendship/relationship challenges. I meet you where you are in your journey & determine the therapeutic modality after getting to know you & your needs. I have been a Psychotherapist for over 15 years & am passionate about helping people reach their full potential in life!
See more therapy options for Aurora
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Aurora
- Centennial
- Cherry Hills Village
- Commerce City
- Denver
- Englewood
- Greenwood Village
- Highlands Ranch
- Lakewood
- Littleton
- Lone Tree
- Parker
- Wheat Ridge
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.