Autism Therapists in Vail, CO

Photo of Diana O'Riordan Verschoor, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Diana O'Riordan Verschoor
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vail, CO 81657
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed, or have you experienced something difficult or traumatic? Are you looking for support to heal, or to explore something new? I provide counseling for adults. I support people from a wide range of identities, backgrounds, and experiences who are going through life changes or challenges. If you are struggling or in need of support, you are not alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed, or have you experienced something difficult or traumatic? Are you looking for support to heal, or to explore something new? I provide counseling for adults. I support people from a wide range of identities, backgrounds, and experiences who are going through life changes or challenges. If you are struggling or in need of support, you are not alone.
(720) 640-8994 View (720) 640-8994
Photo of Terri Lucero, PhD, Psychologist
Terri Lucero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vail, CO 81657
Need help understanding your bright and quirky kid (or yourself)? If you/they have a confusing mix of strengths and challenges, are extremely smart yet struggling in school or work, or having significant emotional or social struggles - I get it! Maybe your kid seems to hold it together all day at school, then completely melts down at home. If you've tried *everything* and can't seem to figure out what's going on, it's time to get expert help to find the answers. As both a psychologist and a parent, I have a deep understanding of challenges with gifted, 2e, and neurodivergent people, and I'm here to help you make sense of it.
Need help understanding your bright and quirky kid (or yourself)? If you/they have a confusing mix of strengths and challenges, are extremely smart yet struggling in school or work, or having significant emotional or social struggles - I get it! Maybe your kid seems to hold it together all day at school, then completely melts down at home. If you've tried *everything* and can't seem to figure out what's going on, it's time to get expert help to find the answers. As both a psychologist and a parent, I have a deep understanding of challenges with gifted, 2e, and neurodivergent people, and I'm here to help you make sense of it.
(720) 903-4693 View (720) 903-4693
Photo of Joel Karr, LCSW, RRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel Karr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vail, CO 81657  (Online Only)
I am very interested in helping you find relief. Whether it is a feeling of powerlessness, or feeling stuck I am interested in getting it resolved painlessly and easily. When previous disturbing experiences continue to cause problematic sensations and thoughts I can resolve that as well without re-living it. To this end, I and certified and use Rapid Resolution Therapy (R) Created by Dr. Jon Connelly. www.rapidresolutiontherapy.com
I am very interested in helping you find relief. Whether it is a feeling of powerlessness, or feeling stuck I am interested in getting it resolved painlessly and easily. When previous disturbing experiences continue to cause problematic sensations and thoughts I can resolve that as well without re-living it. To this end, I and certified and use Rapid Resolution Therapy (R) Created by Dr. Jon Connelly. www.rapidresolutiontherapy.com
(970) 507-8144 View (970) 507-8144

Online Therapists

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.
Accepting New Clients. 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.
Accepting New Clients. 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 Claire Thomas-Duckwitz, PhD, Psychologist
Claire Thomas-Duckwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
I specialize in working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities including autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. I work with both children and adults, providing evaluations from a neuro-positive perspective. Note: I continue to provide autism and ADHD evaluations for most ages, but I keep the therapy portion of my practice very limited. Because of the limited number of providers working with adults on the spectrum, I am still accepting adult therapy clients with a previous diagnosis of autism.
I specialize in working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities including autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. I work with both children and adults, providing evaluations from a neuro-positive perspective. Note: I continue to provide autism and ADHD evaluations for most ages, but I keep the therapy portion of my practice very limited. Because of the limited number of providers working with adults on the spectrum, I am still accepting adult therapy clients with a previous diagnosis of autism.
(719) 568-9625 View (719) 568-9625
Photo of Stephanie Pinch, PsyD, MEd
Stephanie Pinch
Psychologist Candidate, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
I have experience in early childhood relational assessments, diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, behavioral needs, adult learning batteries, and school testing.
Being a child, a parent, an adult, and person in relationship can be hard. I work with individuals from infants (and their caregivers) to adults to help with these important and challenging life stages. Oftentimes we do not realize we have patterns of behavior that at one time protected us, yet now can cause harm. Through our work together, you will gain greater insight and understanding of these unhelpful cycles and your own life experiences, so you can create meaningful change in your life. I also work with young adults working through life transitions, career changes, and making sense of their childhood as well as couples.
I have experience in early childhood relational assessments, diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, behavioral needs, adult learning batteries, and school testing.
Being a child, a parent, an adult, and person in relationship can be hard. I work with individuals from infants (and their caregivers) to adults to help with these important and challenging life stages. Oftentimes we do not realize we have patterns of behavior that at one time protected us, yet now can cause harm. Through our work together, you will gain greater insight and understanding of these unhelpful cycles and your own life experiences, so you can create meaningful change in your life. I also work with young adults working through life transitions, career changes, and making sense of their childhood as well as couples.
(720) 640-4522 x9 View (720) 640-4522 x9
Photo of Nancy Cason - Insights, Colorado Assessment & Therapy, Psychologist
Insights, Colorado Assessment & Therapy
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
Insights specializes in diagnostic and therapy services for children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, and comorbid anxiety and depression.
We have immediate therapy openings for clients who have Health First Medicaid, Colorado Access, or CCHA, thanks to the addition of two new therapists to our team: Makyyah Dawkins MSW, and Samantha Gutherless, MA, LPCC. Makyyah Dawkins is passionate about working with youth, the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent clients, and expanding mental health services to diverse populations. Sam Gutherless is a has worked with young and middle aged adults and is passionate about social justice advocacy and identity work.
Insights specializes in diagnostic and therapy services for children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, and comorbid anxiety and depression.
We have immediate therapy openings for clients who have Health First Medicaid, Colorado Access, or CCHA, thanks to the addition of two new therapists to our team: Makyyah Dawkins MSW, and Samantha Gutherless, MA, LPCC. Makyyah Dawkins is passionate about working with youth, the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent clients, and expanding mental health services to diverse populations. Sam Gutherless is a has worked with young and middle aged adults and is passionate about social justice advocacy and identity work.
(720) 706-4114 View (720) 706-4114
Photo of Tasha Domashovetz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tasha Domashovetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Silverthorne, CO 80498  (Online Only)
If you're looking for help with ADHD, Autism, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), or any kind of neurodiversity, I can help! Being AuDHD myself, I know these topics can be very confusing and there can be a lot of misinformation out in the world about what these diagnoses are and how to help them. In addition, neurodiversity can be accompanied by many other mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, tic disorders, really reactive emotions, melt downs, and shame. The good news is that there is a lot of really helpful information that has been well researched and you can get effective and meaningful support.
If you're looking for help with ADHD, Autism, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), or any kind of neurodiversity, I can help! Being AuDHD myself, I know these topics can be very confusing and there can be a lot of misinformation out in the world about what these diagnoses are and how to help them. In addition, neurodiversity can be accompanied by many other mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, tic disorders, really reactive emotions, melt downs, and shame. The good news is that there is a lot of really helpful information that has been well researched and you can get effective and meaningful support.
(970) 847-2687 View (970) 847-2687
Photo of Breanna Graves, MA, LPC, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Breanna Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80112
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.
(720) 986-7112 View (720) 986-7112
Photo of Lisa L. Lima, MSW, LCSW, ABCDT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa L. Lima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ABCDT
Verified Verified
Woodland Park, CO 80863
Waitlist for new clients
Featured in The Gazette, Fox 21 News, and awarded Best of Teller 2019 and 2020, Lisa Lima, owner of My Life Unleashed takes a unique approach toward working with her clients. As a clinical therapist with a background of nearly 15 years in canine training and behavior modification, Lisa currently serves children, teens, and adults through the means of a Service Dog, trained to assist a handler with a variety of Mental Health or Psychiatric-related challenges, including those stemming from PTSD, Anxiety, Autism, and much more.
Featured in The Gazette, Fox 21 News, and awarded Best of Teller 2019 and 2020, Lisa Lima, owner of My Life Unleashed takes a unique approach toward working with her clients. As a clinical therapist with a background of nearly 15 years in canine training and behavior modification, Lisa currently serves children, teens, and adults through the means of a Service Dog, trained to assist a handler with a variety of Mental Health or Psychiatric-related challenges, including those stemming from PTSD, Anxiety, Autism, and much more.
(719) 215-8961 View (719) 215-8961
Photo of Nichole Hardy Swann, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Nichole Hardy Swann
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
My goal is to help determine concerns each child presents with, as well as give families direction on diagnosis (ADHD, autism, language, sensory, IQ, learning, trauma) in how to address treatment or modify the environment to help their child.
I work with clients who have neurodevelopmental concerns. Clients I typically see, their parents are concerned their children either have ADHD, Autism, Language deficits, intellectual disabilities, or family dynamics that have impacted their daily functioning. At times, aggression, mood, or trauma issues may be present; which make it difficult to determine what the issue is. Additionally, parents periodically want clarification on how their child thinks, and a neuropsychological assessment is best suited in this situation. Difficulties with learning, understanding, or emotional regulation may lead parents to chose this route.
My goal is to help determine concerns each child presents with, as well as give families direction on diagnosis (ADHD, autism, language, sensory, IQ, learning, trauma) in how to address treatment or modify the environment to help their child.
I work with clients who have neurodevelopmental concerns. Clients I typically see, their parents are concerned their children either have ADHD, Autism, Language deficits, intellectual disabilities, or family dynamics that have impacted their daily functioning. At times, aggression, mood, or trauma issues may be present; which make it difficult to determine what the issue is. Additionally, parents periodically want clarification on how their child thinks, and a neuropsychological assessment is best suited in this situation. Difficulties with learning, understanding, or emotional regulation may lead parents to chose this route.
(970) 355-3525 View (970) 355-3525
Photo of Gustav William Moen, SSP, TICP, CI, Registered Psychotherapist
Gustav William Moen
Registered Psychotherapist, SSP, TICP, CI
Verified Verified
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
My clients seek my assistance with anger, rage, addiction - behavioral and chemical, sleeping disorders, inability to focus, digestion or gut issues, shortness of breath, compromised immune system, brittle bones and cartilage, trouble with direction, trouble with relation to time, memory issues, fear, sadness, depression, defensive behavior, relationship problems, coordination or dexterity, loss of taste and/or smell, trouble feeling present, auditory hypersensitivity, anti-social behavior, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma, stress, shock, lack of purpose, guilt, jealousy, inflammation issues, obesity, perfectionism, and much more.
My clients seek my assistance with anger, rage, addiction - behavioral and chemical, sleeping disorders, inability to focus, digestion or gut issues, shortness of breath, compromised immune system, brittle bones and cartilage, trouble with direction, trouble with relation to time, memory issues, fear, sadness, depression, defensive behavior, relationship problems, coordination or dexterity, loss of taste and/or smell, trouble feeling present, auditory hypersensitivity, anti-social behavior, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma, stress, shock, lack of purpose, guilt, jealousy, inflammation issues, obesity, perfectionism, and much more.
(719) 416-4479 View (719) 416-4479
Photo of Lisa Lamoreaux, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lamoreaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of psychological trauma, and its subsequent issues including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. I have extensive experience working with attachment issues, family system concerns, developmental disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. My therapeutic lens is person-centered. I believe every individual is the master of their own experience. I also see individuals as part of a bigger system. Oftentimes it is crucial to focus on the bigger system to foster change. Within this framework, I use art therapy as my method for healing.
I specialize in the treatment of psychological trauma, and its subsequent issues including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. I have extensive experience working with attachment issues, family system concerns, developmental disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. My therapeutic lens is person-centered. I believe every individual is the master of their own experience. I also see individuals as part of a bigger system. Oftentimes it is crucial to focus on the bigger system to foster change. Within this framework, I use art therapy as my method for healing.
(720) 606-4784 View (720) 606-4784
Photo of Elizabeth Bruno, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Bruno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Through these experiences, and her 10 years at Wolff Child Psychology, she has become recognized as an expert and leader in the early assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the interaction between medical conditions and development.
Dr. Elizabeth Bruno is a Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Early Childhood Assessment Services. She has specialized training in developmental and neuropsychological assessment and is passionate about assessing very young children with the goal of starting early intervention as soon as possible. She received her B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Southern Methodist University, and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University Chicago.
Through these experiences, and her 10 years at Wolff Child Psychology, she has become recognized as an expert and leader in the early assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the interaction between medical conditions and development.
Dr. Elizabeth Bruno is a Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Early Childhood Assessment Services. She has specialized training in developmental and neuropsychological assessment and is passionate about assessing very young children with the goal of starting early intervention as soon as possible. She received her B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Southern Methodist University, and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University Chicago.
(720) 724-9832 View (720) 724-9832
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 Challen Gutekunst, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Challen Gutekunst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Loveland, CO 80538
I support families and individuals with emotional needs, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, grief and trauma.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have 4 years experience in multisystemic family and individual therapy with all ages. I like to use play and art to process therapeutically. I have specialties in child centered play therapy, art therapy, trauma focused CBT, DBT, solution focused, mindfulness, and narrative therapy to use with individuals and families.
I support families and individuals with emotional needs, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, grief and trauma.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have 4 years experience in multisystemic family and individual therapy with all ages. I like to use play and art to process therapeutically. I have specialties in child centered play therapy, art therapy, trauma focused CBT, DBT, solution focused, mindfulness, and narrative therapy to use with individuals and families.
(970) 465-5603 View (970) 465-5603
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 Dr. Nicole Gurash, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Nicole Gurash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lone Tree, CO 80124
I am passionate about providing integrative and holistic counseling for individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum, Trauma, OCD, ADHD, and Anxiety. Whether you need support making intentional and more authentic shifts in your own life or are looking for neurodivergent-affirming EMDR therapy to heal from trauma, I am here to help. Or, perhaps your neurodivergent teen is struggling and they would benefit from individual therapy and you also need parenting support for your family. I hope we can partner together to explore your needs and help you cultivate the life and fulfilling relationships you deserve.
I am passionate about providing integrative and holistic counseling for individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum, Trauma, OCD, ADHD, and Anxiety. Whether you need support making intentional and more authentic shifts in your own life or are looking for neurodivergent-affirming EMDR therapy to heal from trauma, I am here to help. Or, perhaps your neurodivergent teen is struggling and they would benefit from individual therapy and you also need parenting support for your family. I hope we can partner together to explore your needs and help you cultivate the life and fulfilling relationships you deserve.
(970) 840-2232 View (970) 840-2232
Photo of Adrien Marcellus, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrien Marcellus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting folks who are Autism, ADHD, and/or OCD. I provide full clinical assessments, diagnoses, and treatment. I specialize in assessing and supporting adults who are seeking clarity and those who MAY have "gone under the radar". I help you heal by using specialized education and evidenced based techniques including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Inference Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ICBT (Inference based CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention, Attachment Theory, Brainspotting and Somatic Healing; I help clients utilize their strengths and explore their passions to live the life they imagine.
I specialize in supporting folks who are Autism, ADHD, and/or OCD. I provide full clinical assessments, diagnoses, and treatment. I specialize in assessing and supporting adults who are seeking clarity and those who MAY have "gone under the radar". I help you heal by using specialized education and evidenced based techniques including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Inference Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ICBT (Inference based CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention, Attachment Theory, Brainspotting and Somatic Healing; I help clients utilize their strengths and explore their passions to live the life they imagine.
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Photo of Meredith Hammond, MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Hammond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80234
My professional experience includes working with problems related to relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, career/work issues, sexually problematic behaviors, ADHD, Traumatic Stress, and Autism/Asperger's disorder.
Because we are relational by nature, our patterns of interaction with others contribute to our experiences of happiness and our experiences of pain and disappointment. My goal is to help you strengthen your most important relationships - including your relationship with yourself.
My professional experience includes working with problems related to relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, career/work issues, sexually problematic behaviors, ADHD, Traumatic Stress, and Autism/Asperger's disorder.
Because we are relational by nature, our patterns of interaction with others contribute to our experiences of happiness and our experiences of pain and disappointment. My goal is to help you strengthen your most important relationships - including your relationship with yourself.
(720) 466-2063 View (720) 466-2063

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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.