Photo of Jason Peirce - Healing Rock Counseling, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Healing Rock Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
My specialties include autism, grief & loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Life is demanding. Sometimes it helps to have a place where you can slow down and think, feel, and talk at your own pace. If you’re feeling stuck or dealing with stress, therapy can help. We can explore whatever feels meaningful to you.
My specialties include autism, grief & loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Life is demanding. Sometimes it helps to have a place where you can slow down and think, feel, and talk at your own pace. If you’re feeling stuck or dealing with stress, therapy can help. We can explore whatever feels meaningful to you.
View
Photo of Kendra Sherwood - Rocky Mountain Behavioral Medicine, PhD, PsyD, MA,  LPC, Psychologist
Rocky Mountain Behavioral Medicine
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
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.
(720) 633-9693 View (720) 633-9693
Photo of Sarah Pepe, LPCC
Sarah Pepe
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
Have you tried therapy before and felt misunderstood or unsupported? Unfortunately this is a common experience, especially if you're neurodivergent. For a long time developmental conditions like ADHD and autism have been viewed as problems to be solved and many therapists have been insensitive to the unique needs and experiences of people with these conditions. I believe that neurodivergent people deserve the same quality of care as neurotypical folks, and I strive to provide sensitive, individualized, and neurodivergent-affirming care to my clients.
Have you tried therapy before and felt misunderstood or unsupported? Unfortunately this is a common experience, especially if you're neurodivergent. For a long time developmental conditions like ADHD and autism have been viewed as problems to be solved and many therapists have been insensitive to the unique needs and experiences of people with these conditions. I believe that neurodivergent people deserve the same quality of care as neurotypical folks, and I strive to provide sensitive, individualized, and neurodivergent-affirming care to my clients.
(720) 736-7147 View (720) 736-7147
Photo of Nissa Jackman, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nissa Jackman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist who will work with your unique, gifted, often quirky needs and nurture you through your strengths? Are you or a child in your life struggling to cope with big feelings and changes? Have you or your child been diagnosed with, or show signs of, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Social Anxiety, feeling "different", or problems with self-confidence? Are you frustrated by how difficult it is to communicate your thoughts and feelings effectively with others? Or do you avoid your feelings for fear of being overwhelmed by them?
Are you looking for a therapist who will work with your unique, gifted, often quirky needs and nurture you through your strengths? Are you or a child in your life struggling to cope with big feelings and changes? Have you or your child been diagnosed with, or show signs of, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Social Anxiety, feeling "different", or problems with self-confidence? Are you frustrated by how difficult it is to communicate your thoughts and feelings effectively with others? Or do you avoid your feelings for fear of being overwhelmed by them?
(720) 903-4854 View (720) 903-4854
Photo of Lila Kimel, PhD, Psychologist
Lila Kimel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I have over 10 years of experience evaluating and treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. I also have specialized training in evaluating and treating children and adolescents with learning disabilities, intellectual and executive functioning difficulties, developmental challenges, ADHD, behavioral difficulties, as well as neurological and genetic disorders, and anxiety, and mood disorders. I provide guidance for parents, and consultations with educators and schools regarding how to best facilitate the development of children. I also provide psycho-legal consultation in cases related to individuals with developmental disabilities that are involved in the legal system.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I have over 10 years of experience evaluating and treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. I also have specialized training in evaluating and treating children and adolescents with learning disabilities, intellectual and executive functioning difficulties, developmental challenges, ADHD, behavioral difficulties, as well as neurological and genetic disorders, and anxiety, and mood disorders. I provide guidance for parents, and consultations with educators and schools regarding how to best facilitate the development of children. I also provide psycho-legal consultation in cases related to individuals with developmental disabilities that are involved in the legal system.
(303) 835-9481 View (303) 835-9481
Photo of Alexandra Ament, PhD, BCBA, Psychologist
Alexandra Ament
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Supporting youth with developmental disabilities and their families is my area of passion and expertise. I strive to help families understand why their child might be struggling and how to best support them. My extensive training in psychology and behavior analysis allows me to view behavioral, emotional, and social challenges from unique perspectives. I specialize in youth with autism and co-occurring disorders and take a strengths-based approach to help them strive and reduce challenges around behavior and mental health concerns.
Supporting youth with developmental disabilities and their families is my area of passion and expertise. I strive to help families understand why their child might be struggling and how to best support them. My extensive training in psychology and behavior analysis allows me to view behavioral, emotional, and social challenges from unique perspectives. I specialize in youth with autism and co-occurring disorders and take a strengths-based approach to help them strive and reduce challenges around behavior and mental health concerns.
(720) 442-8146 View (720) 442-8146
Photo of Joy Watts, MA, LPC, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joy Watts
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
I work primarily with adults and teens who are experiencing anxiety, neurodivergence such as ADHD and autism, chronic pain, PTSD/CPTSD and grief and loss.
Are you ready to break free from the stress, anxiety, and burnout that’s been holding you back? Together, we can navigate life's challenges, embrace who you truly are, and build a life where you feel empowered and in control. I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating, but I’m here to offer a non-judgmental, supportive space where you can explore your emotions at your own pace. Therapy with me is about real conversations, creative exploration, a little humor, and a lot of heart. My approach is multi-faceted, holistic, and always tailored to your unique needs, because this is about you—your life, your growth, your way.
I work primarily with adults and teens who are experiencing anxiety, neurodivergence such as ADHD and autism, chronic pain, PTSD/CPTSD and grief and loss.
Are you ready to break free from the stress, anxiety, and burnout that’s been holding you back? Together, we can navigate life's challenges, embrace who you truly are, and build a life where you feel empowered and in control. I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating, but I’m here to offer a non-judgmental, supportive space where you can explore your emotions at your own pace. Therapy with me is about real conversations, creative exploration, a little humor, and a lot of heart. My approach is multi-faceted, holistic, and always tailored to your unique needs, because this is about you—your life, your growth, your way.
(720) 868-9102 View (720) 868-9102
Photo of Caitlinn Abbott - Caitlinn Abbott (Accepting New Clients), BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caitlinn Abbott (Accepting New Clients)
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80030
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.
(720) 824-4434 View (720) 824-4434
Photo of Alison Kennedy - Spectrum Psychological Assessment Services of CO, PsyD, Psychologist
Spectrum Psychological Assessment Services of CO
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80123
I have over ten years of experience as a clinical psychologist, specializing in neuropsychological and psychological assessment. I provide a range of neuropsychological and psychological evaluation services for children and adults of all ages. ADHD testing, autism testing, learning disability testing, IQ testing, mood disorder testing, and more evaluation services provided.
I have over ten years of experience as a clinical psychologist, specializing in neuropsychological and psychological assessment. I provide a range of neuropsychological and psychological evaluation services for children and adults of all ages. ADHD testing, autism testing, learning disability testing, IQ testing, mood disorder testing, and more evaluation services provided.
(719) 752-2716 View (719) 752-2716
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
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!
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!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of James Nguyen - Rocky Mountain Neuropsychology Consultants, PhD, Psychologist
Rocky Mountain Neuropsychology Consultants
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
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.
(720) 410-6635 View (720) 410-6635
Photo of Hillary Grady-Speckhals, PsyD, Psychologist
Hillary Grady-Speckhals
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Grady-Speckhals completes thorough evaluations to assess for specific learning disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, working closely with caregivers and schools to support a child's individual strengths and needs.
Dr. Grady-Speckhals received her M.A. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver. She completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship and a post-doctoral fellowship in child clinical psychology at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her graduate training and experiences focused on providing assessment and treatment for children and adolescents with mood and behavioral concerns, complex trauma, ADHD, learning disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Grady-Speckhals has worked in a number of settings, including both inpatient and outpatient hospital clinics.
Grady-Speckhals completes thorough evaluations to assess for specific learning disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, working closely with caregivers and schools to support a child's individual strengths and needs.
Dr. Grady-Speckhals received her M.A. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver. She completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship and a post-doctoral fellowship in child clinical psychology at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her graduate training and experiences focused on providing assessment and treatment for children and adolescents with mood and behavioral concerns, complex trauma, ADHD, learning disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Grady-Speckhals has worked in a number of settings, including both inpatient and outpatient hospital clinics.
(720) 796-7974 View (720) 796-7974
Photo of Rebecca I Howard, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca I Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
Hello, I have been a Licensed Psychologist for over 10 years. I specialize in assessments to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disorder, Cognitive and/or Adaptive Testing, and Personality and Mood evaluations. I use an integrative and strengths based approach to therapy and assessment, where personal values, beliefs, and strengths are utilized in our work together in therapy. Email or call me today with questions or to schedule an appointment. Please note I currently do not have availability for new therapy clients. I only have availability for assessments.
Hello, I have been a Licensed Psychologist for over 10 years. I specialize in assessments to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disorder, Cognitive and/or Adaptive Testing, and Personality and Mood evaluations. I use an integrative and strengths based approach to therapy and assessment, where personal values, beliefs, and strengths are utilized in our work together in therapy. Email or call me today with questions or to schedule an appointment. Please note I currently do not have availability for new therapy clients. I only have availability for assessments.
(303) 900-7012 View (303) 900-7012
Photo of Ous H. Badwan - Birch Psychology, MFT, PsyD, Psychologist
Birch Psychology
Psychologist, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
We conduct assessments that include academic (psycho-educational assessments), developmental (including autism specific testing) and social/emotional assessments.
Birch Psychology is a practice devoted to helping individuals and families grow, discover and reach their potential. This is the primary focus of all the clinicians in practice at Birch. Through specialties in working with adults, adolescents and children.
We conduct assessments that include academic (psycho-educational assessments), developmental (including autism specific testing) and social/emotional assessments.
Birch Psychology is a practice devoted to helping individuals and families grow, discover and reach their potential. This is the primary focus of all the clinicians in practice at Birch. Through specialties in working with adults, adolescents and children.
(303) 536-3840 View (303) 536-3840
Photo of Ororah Bell, BCBA, BCASE, Counselor
Ororah Bell
Counselor, BCBA, BCASE
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
I support with ADHD, Autism and Executive Functioning challenges to make the most out of the potential you see for yourself.
Feeling distracted or impulsive, procrastinating or have difficulty getting motivated? Does depression or anxiety take hold and you can't get anything done? Overwhelmed with job, household, school or relationship aspects of life? Feel like everyone else has it all together and you're just scraping by? Is parenting a child with special needs, or any child for that matter, becoming more difficult and you're unsure if you're doing things "right"? Do you feel your child's school could be doing more to support them? Let's discuss your unique needs, become more mindful, gain perspective and come up with a plan to reach goals together!
I support with ADHD, Autism and Executive Functioning challenges to make the most out of the potential you see for yourself.
Feeling distracted or impulsive, procrastinating or have difficulty getting motivated? Does depression or anxiety take hold and you can't get anything done? Overwhelmed with job, household, school or relationship aspects of life? Feel like everyone else has it all together and you're just scraping by? Is parenting a child with special needs, or any child for that matter, becoming more difficult and you're unsure if you're doing things "right"? Do you feel your child's school could be doing more to support them? Let's discuss your unique needs, become more mindful, gain perspective and come up with a plan to reach goals together!
(720) 780-0967 View (720) 780-0967
Photo of Erica Stephens Phd, PhD, Psychologist
Erica Stephens Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
Erica has extensive experience working with clients who have Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and rejection sensitivity, providing tailored treatment plans that address their specific needs.
Dr. Erica Stephens is a licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, specializing in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal and family dynamics. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Erica has helped numerous clients achieve personal growth and overcome a range of mental health challenges. Dr. Erica's approach to therapy is grounded in a warm, empathetic, and collaborative style, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. Dr. Erica also specializes in working with adopted clients and clients with challenging familial relationships.
Erica has extensive experience working with clients who have Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and rejection sensitivity, providing tailored treatment plans that address their specific needs.
Dr. Erica Stephens is a licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, specializing in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal and family dynamics. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Erica has helped numerous clients achieve personal growth and overcome a range of mental health challenges. Dr. Erica's approach to therapy is grounded in a warm, empathetic, and collaborative style, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. Dr. Erica also specializes in working with adopted clients and clients with challenging familial relationships.
(720) 902-9382 View (720) 902-9382
Photo of Amber McLeod, BS, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber McLeod
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Are you looking for a therapist who truly understands and sees you? I’m passionate about creating an affirming space where you feel safe, valued, and understood—no matter who you are or where you come from! I know that each person’s journey is unique, and I’m here to meet you wherever you are. Together, we’ll collaborate with openness, humor, and a lot of empathy, so you can feel supported as you embark on your journey towards healing and growth. My areas of focus include navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), women’s mental health, and providing LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.
Are you looking for a therapist who truly understands and sees you? I’m passionate about creating an affirming space where you feel safe, valued, and understood—no matter who you are or where you come from! I know that each person’s journey is unique, and I’m here to meet you wherever you are. Together, we’ll collaborate with openness, humor, and a lot of empathy, so you can feel supported as you embark on your journey towards healing and growth. My areas of focus include navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), women’s mental health, and providing LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.
(720) 575-0326 View (720) 575-0326
Photo of Samantha Thedin, PhD, Psychologist
Samantha Thedin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
She also completes comprehensive evaluations to assess for specific learning disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Thedin is a Licensed Psychologist at Wolff Child Psychology. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. in Child Clinical Psychology from Penn State. Dr. Thedin completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship in child and family clinical psychology at the Aurora Mental Health Center in Colorado.
She also completes comprehensive evaluations to assess for specific learning disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Thedin is a Licensed Psychologist at Wolff Child Psychology. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. in Child Clinical Psychology from Penn State. Dr. Thedin completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship in child and family clinical psychology at the Aurora Mental Health Center in Colorado.
(720) 802-4063 View (720) 802-4063
Photo of Sarah Lukens, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah Lukens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
As an evaluator, I conduct in-depth evaluations related to ADHD, brain injury, Autism, trauma, learning disabilities, and personality functioning.
I provide individual and couples therapy, as well as psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. As a therapist, I specialize in treating anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, and depression. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that fosters bravery and invites people to reveal their authentic selves. Because I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is lively and collaborative, I use a direct and open manner in treatment. I will work with you to create a therapy that is effective for you as an individual.
As an evaluator, I conduct in-depth evaluations related to ADHD, brain injury, Autism, trauma, learning disabilities, and personality functioning.
I provide individual and couples therapy, as well as psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. As a therapist, I specialize in treating anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, and depression. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that fosters bravery and invites people to reveal their authentic selves. Because I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is lively and collaborative, I use a direct and open manner in treatment. I will work with you to create a therapy that is effective for you as an individual.
(413) 553-1879 View (413) 553-1879
Photo of Jack Wells - Portland Psychological Assessments, LLC, Psychologist
Portland Psychological Assessments, LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80261
We offer quality mental health services through a variety of psychological evaluations, therapy, and consultation for Oregon and Colorado residents. Our office conducts evaluations and screenings related to the identification of developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive problems, emotional struggles, and intellectual difficulties. Our primary job duties are related to the administration, interpretation, and writing of diagnostic evaluations. As such, we are able to provide feedback within one week after testing has been administered. Please contact us to talk about how we can help you.
We offer quality mental health services through a variety of psychological evaluations, therapy, and consultation for Oregon and Colorado residents. Our office conducts evaluations and screenings related to the identification of developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive problems, emotional struggles, and intellectual difficulties. Our primary job duties are related to the administration, interpretation, and writing of diagnostic evaluations. As such, we are able to provide feedback within one week after testing has been administered. Please contact us to talk about how we can help you.
(503) 512-6719 View (503) 512-6719
1
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.