Photo of Dr. Linda M Jordan-Parker, EdD, LADC, Psychologist
Dr. Linda M Jordan-Parker
Psychologist, EdD, LADC
Verified Verified
Enfield, CT 06082
Are you seeking to better understand yourself, your strengths, and your potential? We will utilize interventions that move you out of your past and into the present, allowing you to re-embrace a life of promise.
Are you seeking to better understand yourself, your strengths, and your potential? We will utilize interventions that move you out of your past and into the present, allowing you to re-embrace a life of promise.
(860) 854-4486 View (860) 854-4486

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Corendis Dawson Bonner - Dawson Holistic Healing , MS, CPC, LCM
Dawson Holistic Healing
MS, CPC, LCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06006
We understand how difficult it can be trying to deal with issues and stress on your own. Our support services are created to provide a sense of relief. Our goal is to be a valuable resource to help navigate life, while you achieve goals and realize your dreams. Setting yourself on a path that will prove life changing and stainable. Our approach of working with you at a comfortable pace, makes change possible in each session. Those looking for guidance and help mapping out success plans in personal, spiritual, educational or professional areas. Will benefit from 1:1 sessions, while reading and journaling in between our time together
We understand how difficult it can be trying to deal with issues and stress on your own. Our support services are created to provide a sense of relief. Our goal is to be a valuable resource to help navigate life, while you achieve goals and realize your dreams. Setting yourself on a path that will prove life changing and stainable. Our approach of working with you at a comfortable pace, makes change possible in each session. Those looking for guidance and help mapping out success plans in personal, spiritual, educational or professional areas. Will benefit from 1:1 sessions, while reading and journaling in between our time together
(860) 499-3929 View (860) 499-3929
Photo of Marva Malone-Lyles - The Wellness Factor LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Wellness Factor LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
In these challenging times, I know you're probably wondering when life's journey brings you to a crossroad, which path will you choose? You are not alone. I see that today you are searching for a guide to help you along this sometimes uncertain yet wonderful journey. I know it may be a hard decision to make but if you're looking for an experienced, caring guide who will help you restore balance and wellness to your life. I want to hear your unique story and join you on your special journey.
In these challenging times, I know you're probably wondering when life's journey brings you to a crossroad, which path will you choose? You are not alone. I see that today you are searching for a guide to help you along this sometimes uncertain yet wonderful journey. I know it may be a hard decision to make but if you're looking for an experienced, caring guide who will help you restore balance and wellness to your life. I want to hear your unique story and join you on your special journey.
(860) 415-8628 View (860) 415-8628
Photo of Heather Drago, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Drago
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
East Granby, CT 06026
Hello, I’m Heather If you are seeking support from a therapist, you are in the right place. In my experience individuals can feel they have gotten stuck in the same routine trying the same thing over and over without gaining the outcome they were seeking. I value the importance of getting to know each individual I work with so that together we can develop an effective and achievable treatment plan. Together we can find new approaches to positively and directly impact the outcomes you seek.
Hello, I’m Heather If you are seeking support from a therapist, you are in the right place. In my experience individuals can feel they have gotten stuck in the same routine trying the same thing over and over without gaining the outcome they were seeking. I value the importance of getting to know each individual I work with so that together we can develop an effective and achievable treatment plan. Together we can find new approaches to positively and directly impact the outcomes you seek.
(475) 267-1858 View (475) 267-1858
Photo of James M Noonan, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
James M Noonan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
Not accepting new clients
While I work with a broad range of diagnoses I have the most experience working with people dealing with the challenges presented by Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Depression, and family and relational conflicts.
Stripped away of all the fancy language therapy is a process of growth and change. I have had the privilege of helping people grow and change for over 20 years. I’ve also had the benefit of doing this in a wide variety of roles from crisis intervention, to classroom teacher where I was given the honor of being named my district’s teacher of the year, to the last decade as a therapist. I’ve learned that the recipe for change is different for each individual and a large part of that is finding the right combination of motivators, techniques, and support systems to help people achieve their goals.
While I work with a broad range of diagnoses I have the most experience working with people dealing with the challenges presented by Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Depression, and family and relational conflicts.
Stripped away of all the fancy language therapy is a process of growth and change. I have had the privilege of helping people grow and change for over 20 years. I’ve also had the benefit of doing this in a wide variety of roles from crisis intervention, to classroom teacher where I was given the honor of being named my district’s teacher of the year, to the last decade as a therapist. I’ve learned that the recipe for change is different for each individual and a large part of that is finding the right combination of motivators, techniques, and support systems to help people achieve their goals.
(860) 866-5415 View (860) 866-5415

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy Arruda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Arruda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, CT 06752  (Online Only)
SPECIALTIES * Stress * Anxiety * Addictions * Trauma & abuse * Grief * Depression * Also experienced in:  Relationship/Intimacy issues, Family conflicts, Eating/Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Coping w/ life changes, Abandonment, Adoption, Autism, Guilt/Shame, Mood swings, Pregnancy/Postpartum.
My most recent endeavors have been learning how to heal without medication. Many don't know that 90% of our brain's serotonin is made in our gut. Let me teach you how to feel better by eating the right foods. I also have a great deal of experience working with adolescents and can effectively provide emotional and behavioral support for youth with wide array of needs utilizing a holistic and strengths-based clinical approach.

 I specialize in the assessment and treatment of:

 PTSD
, Substance abuse
, Conduct Disorder
, ADHD
, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, 
Anxiety, 
Depression
, Postpartum & can help with health related issues
SPECIALTIES * Stress * Anxiety * Addictions * Trauma & abuse * Grief * Depression * Also experienced in:  Relationship/Intimacy issues, Family conflicts, Eating/Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Coping w/ life changes, Abandonment, Adoption, Autism, Guilt/Shame, Mood swings, Pregnancy/Postpartum.
My most recent endeavors have been learning how to heal without medication. Many don't know that 90% of our brain's serotonin is made in our gut. Let me teach you how to feel better by eating the right foods. I also have a great deal of experience working with adolescents and can effectively provide emotional and behavioral support for youth with wide array of needs utilizing a holistic and strengths-based clinical approach.

 I specialize in the assessment and treatment of:

 PTSD
, Substance abuse
, Conduct Disorder
, ADHD
, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, 
Anxiety, 
Depression
, Postpartum & can help with health related issues
(203) 813-5457 View (203) 813-5457
Photo of Wendy Jones - ExcelYourselfNow!!, CMHC,  NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
ExcelYourselfNow!!
Licensed Professional Counselor, CMHC, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeport, CT 06610  (Online Only)
I have worked with developmentally delayed clients, clients on the Autism Spectrum (ASD), Substance Use Disorders, Schizophrenia diagnosis, Bipolar Depression/Mania and more.
I am here to serve people of diverse backgrounds who are ready to be "unstuck" from their current "unsatisfactory" existence. One of my goals is to be that bridge to connect with all men (particularly men of color, indigenous), women, and families. My business mission statement is "To propel and ignite the inner strength within a human body for optimal wellness". Nothing less. I view my therapeutic relationship with clients as a valued partnership. The overarching goal is that we both grow within our therapeutic alliance, with the outcome of feeling rewarded, restored, renewed and Ready to EXCEL!
I have worked with developmentally delayed clients, clients on the Autism Spectrum (ASD), Substance Use Disorders, Schizophrenia diagnosis, Bipolar Depression/Mania and more.
I am here to serve people of diverse backgrounds who are ready to be "unstuck" from their current "unsatisfactory" existence. One of my goals is to be that bridge to connect with all men (particularly men of color, indigenous), women, and families. My business mission statement is "To propel and ignite the inner strength within a human body for optimal wellness". Nothing less. I view my therapeutic relationship with clients as a valued partnership. The overarching goal is that we both grow within our therapeutic alliance, with the outcome of feeling rewarded, restored, renewed and Ready to EXCEL!
(203) 601-6499 View (203) 601-6499
Photo of Sarah Monteleone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Monteleone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Our group practice has recently increased capacity and has openings for children, adults and families with Medicaid, Anthem, Cigna, Aetna Insurance. Please contact me via psychology today to be connected to one of our clinicians. I also provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians and offer Autism Diagnostic Evaluations utilizing the ADOS-II. This service is reimbursable through Medicaid for members under 21.
Our group practice has recently increased capacity and has openings for children, adults and families with Medicaid, Anthem, Cigna, Aetna Insurance. Please contact me via psychology today to be connected to one of our clinicians. I also provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians and offer Autism Diagnostic Evaluations utilizing the ADOS-II. This service is reimbursable through Medicaid for members under 21.
(203) 635-5159 View (203) 635-5159
Photo of Deborah S Hulien, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah S Hulien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hebron, CT 06248
Solid working knowledge of Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Socialization skills for ASD and related disorders, Family therapy, liaison with school districts, Coaching/educating families with autistic children or members, marital mediation/child custody and divorce mediation concerns, skill training for adolescents with autism/Asperger's, assessment testing for depression, anxiety, executive functioning, and behavioral issues.
Deborah S. Hulien is a CT. State Licensed Professional Counselor in Hebron, CT. Her career spans 25+ years, guiding adults, adolescents and individuals , single parents, and couples who struggle with the emotions of life's challenges. Additionally, she provides information/education for individuals and parents of Autistic children to bridge communication gaps. Furthermore, adults who seek divorce will learn that the process is complicated and emotionally disruptive. An experienced therapist can help families achieve a peaceful and successful resolution to this challenging process.
Solid working knowledge of Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Socialization skills for ASD and related disorders, Family therapy, liaison with school districts, Coaching/educating families with autistic children or members, marital mediation/child custody and divorce mediation concerns, skill training for adolescents with autism/Asperger's, assessment testing for depression, anxiety, executive functioning, and behavioral issues.
Deborah S. Hulien is a CT. State Licensed Professional Counselor in Hebron, CT. Her career spans 25+ years, guiding adults, adolescents and individuals , single parents, and couples who struggle with the emotions of life's challenges. Additionally, she provides information/education for individuals and parents of Autistic children to bridge communication gaps. Furthermore, adults who seek divorce will learn that the process is complicated and emotionally disruptive. An experienced therapist can help families achieve a peaceful and successful resolution to this challenging process.
(860) 808-9177 View (860) 808-9177
Photo of Janet Sharkis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Sharkis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795  (Online Only)
My specialties include disabilities (such as ADHD & autism); adoption (I am a mom through adoption); infertility; sexual abuse; abusive partners, & substance use.
I was one of the first counselors in CT to be licensed (20+ years ago). Additionally, I am licensed in Texas. As your therapist, my first step is to make sure you feel heard, accepted, and respected. This builds the foundation of trust needed. together we build strategies around your roadblocks and help you navigate your struggles so that you can build a future you look forward to. New hope emerges with the right set of supports in your life.
My specialties include disabilities (such as ADHD & autism); adoption (I am a mom through adoption); infertility; sexual abuse; abusive partners, & substance use.
I was one of the first counselors in CT to be licensed (20+ years ago). Additionally, I am licensed in Texas. As your therapist, my first step is to make sure you feel heard, accepted, and respected. This builds the foundation of trust needed. together we build strategies around your roadblocks and help you navigate your struggles so that you can build a future you look forward to. New hope emerges with the right set of supports in your life.
(512) 883-3682 View (512) 883-3682
Photo of Melissa Marris - Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC, MOT, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC
Occupational Therapist, MOT, OTR/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
When struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, it may still be a struggle to function despite being in talk therapy & taking your medications. You may need help with daily functioning, life balance, routine, enjoying activities, & exploring new ones. OT addresses it all! Areas my clients struggle with include self-care, showering, eating, emotion regulation, leisure & hobbies, sensory processing, sleep, work, social, & school. I typically work with ages 18-35 who struggle with symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression/bipolar, BPD, trauma, ADHD. I place a big emphasis on neuroaffirming, strengths-based care.
When struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, it may still be a struggle to function despite being in talk therapy & taking your medications. You may need help with daily functioning, life balance, routine, enjoying activities, & exploring new ones. OT addresses it all! Areas my clients struggle with include self-care, showering, eating, emotion regulation, leisure & hobbies, sensory processing, sleep, work, social, & school. I typically work with ages 18-35 who struggle with symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression/bipolar, BPD, trauma, ADHD. I place a big emphasis on neuroaffirming, strengths-based care.
(860) 809-1878 View (860) 809-1878
Photo of Dr. Terry D'Elisa, PsyD, ABPP, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Terry D'Elisa
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, NCSP
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
I have specific training in the diagnosis of Autism and ADHD.
Welcome! I am board certified (ABPP) in School Psychology, and I provide psychological assessment for autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities and social/emotional concerns. I also provide parent support and coaching and counseling to both children and adults across a variety of issues including anxiety and depression. Children, adolescents and their parents face many challenges today. The pressure to succeed in school and in the social milieu can be overwhelming. I can help children and parents navigate the challenges of growing up in this high-powered environment and help adults navigate family relationships and personal challenges.
I have specific training in the diagnosis of Autism and ADHD.
Welcome! I am board certified (ABPP) in School Psychology, and I provide psychological assessment for autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities and social/emotional concerns. I also provide parent support and coaching and counseling to both children and adults across a variety of issues including anxiety and depression. Children, adolescents and their parents face many challenges today. The pressure to succeed in school and in the social milieu can be overwhelming. I can help children and parents navigate the challenges of growing up in this high-powered environment and help adults navigate family relationships and personal challenges.
(203) 350-0394 View (203) 350-0394
Catherine A Hogan-Neuro-Communication Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901  (Online Only)
Are you successful at your job or with courses in college; yet, you are having difficulty communicating effectively with others? You may find it challenging to get your work done despite your exceptional job skill or academic achievement. Or, your partner may be frequently upset because you don’t seem to understand what he or she needs. You may be feeling frustrated and suspect some form of autism? Certainly you don’t want to feel life has to be so difficult. Perhaps you would like tools that can improve your situation or an innovative way you can navigate your challenges. You may be a parent trying to help your chil socially.
Are you successful at your job or with courses in college; yet, you are having difficulty communicating effectively with others? You may find it challenging to get your work done despite your exceptional job skill or academic achievement. Or, your partner may be frequently upset because you don’t seem to understand what he or she needs. You may be feeling frustrated and suspect some form of autism? Certainly you don’t want to feel life has to be so difficult. Perhaps you would like tools that can improve your situation or an innovative way you can navigate your challenges. You may be a parent trying to help your chil socially.
(203) 580-6812 View (203) 580-6812
Photo of April Smoke-Collins, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Smoke-Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Additionally, one of my favorite things to do is work with adolescents who are on the autism spectrum by offering social skills/building connections groups to help them build peer relationships.
I am called to SERVE. I have worked as a clinician for almost two decades and have had the pleasure of working with clients of all genders, from all racial backgrounds with various ages and needs. I meet my clients where they are emotionally with the goal of getting them to where they want to be in life by working through life's challenges and roadblocks. The years of training I received as a clinician and supervisor at the Yale Child Study Center have influenced my attention to detail, assessment, and collaboration. I encourage you to take this amazing journey of self-discovery and healing from inside and out with me.
Additionally, one of my favorite things to do is work with adolescents who are on the autism spectrum by offering social skills/building connections groups to help them build peer relationships.
I am called to SERVE. I have worked as a clinician for almost two decades and have had the pleasure of working with clients of all genders, from all racial backgrounds with various ages and needs. I meet my clients where they are emotionally with the goal of getting them to where they want to be in life by working through life's challenges and roadblocks. The years of training I received as a clinician and supervisor at the Yale Child Study Center have influenced my attention to detail, assessment, and collaboration. I encourage you to take this amazing journey of self-discovery and healing from inside and out with me.
(475) 234-2607 View (475) 234-2607
Photo of Rene' Visser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rene' Visser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477
Rene' specializes in teaching positive parenting skills, play therapy with children, counseling adolescents with Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, behavior problems, trauma and other mental health issues .
Rene has over 30 years of experience working with individuals, children, adolescents and their families on issues such as relationship problems, anxiety, depression, Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, anger management , behavior problems and other mental health issues. She has worked in a hospital, school system, the community and private practice, in a woman's center, on prenatal/postpartum and pediatric floors, in the emergency room, doing home based treatment, led parenting groups and conducts comprehensive evaluations for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. Call today for support and guidance.
Rene' specializes in teaching positive parenting skills, play therapy with children, counseling adolescents with Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, behavior problems, trauma and other mental health issues .
Rene has over 30 years of experience working with individuals, children, adolescents and their families on issues such as relationship problems, anxiety, depression, Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, anger management , behavior problems and other mental health issues. She has worked in a hospital, school system, the community and private practice, in a woman's center, on prenatal/postpartum and pediatric floors, in the emergency room, doing home based treatment, led parenting groups and conducts comprehensive evaluations for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. Call today for support and guidance.
(203) 936-6356 View (203) 936-6356
Photo of Ryan McGuire - Therapeutic Counseling Center of Connecticut, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapeutic Counseling Center of Connecticut
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, CT 06013
My area of expertise is anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism, spirituality, and family therapy.
Many of the clients we serve have tried therapy with a counselor who was not a good fit for them. We get it. Our therapists help you feel better by understanding your emotions are like a guide. Counseling with us feels as easy as speaking with a friend who can truly help guide the process.
My area of expertise is anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism, spirituality, and family therapy.
Many of the clients we serve have tried therapy with a counselor who was not a good fit for them. We get it. Our therapists help you feel better by understanding your emotions are like a guide. Counseling with us feels as easy as speaking with a friend who can truly help guide the process.
(860) 554-6307 View (860) 554-6307
Photo of Maria Morabito, CAS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Morabito
Licensed Professional Counselor, CAS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroe, CT 06468  (Online Only)
A safe therapeutic space is critical to the therapy experience so that the individual feels heard, understood, and supported while learning skills to navigate life’s challenges. During events of high stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, Maria’s approach is warm and caring, as she encourages open communication, collaboration, and participation. Maria has extensive experience working with adults, well as with and children with Autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. She is passionate about providing effective support, working to understand the unique perspective of each individual.
A safe therapeutic space is critical to the therapy experience so that the individual feels heard, understood, and supported while learning skills to navigate life’s challenges. During events of high stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, Maria’s approach is warm and caring, as she encourages open communication, collaboration, and participation. Maria has extensive experience working with adults, well as with and children with Autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. She is passionate about providing effective support, working to understand the unique perspective of each individual.
(475) 258-7681 View (475) 258-7681
Photo of Vanessa Garcia - ABA A Step At A Time Care, MS, BCBA, LBA
ABA A Step At A Time Care
MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06461
ABA A Step At A Time Care ("A Step At A Time") is a provider of pediatric behavioral therapeutic services for individuals with autism and related disorders and their families. We are evidence-based, outcome-driven, clinician-run, and parent-owned. We provide a focused behavioral program which consists of direct 1:1 sessions with a registered technician under the supervision of a Master's or PhD level Behavior Analyst and parent training. IEP advocacy and consultation are also available.
ABA A Step At A Time Care ("A Step At A Time") is a provider of pediatric behavioral therapeutic services for individuals with autism and related disorders and their families. We are evidence-based, outcome-driven, clinician-run, and parent-owned. We provide a focused behavioral program which consists of direct 1:1 sessions with a registered technician under the supervision of a Master's or PhD level Behavior Analyst and parent training. IEP advocacy and consultation are also available.
(203) 403-6245 x1 View (203) 403-6245 x1
Photo of Rachel Rubin Frank, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Rubin Frank
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Are you living in survival mode, burnt out and chronically stressed? Are you struggling with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, parenting, or binge eating? These are my specialities. I am a Stanford University trained Psychologist skilled in CBT to help you achieve your goals and gain balance in your life. I would be a good fit for you if you struggle with special needs parenting as I have personal experience and professional training to support you on that complex journey. My approach is eclectic and incorporates both present, goal-focused CBT/ACT/DBT along with insight oriented self-exploration. Can also offer Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
Are you living in survival mode, burnt out and chronically stressed? Are you struggling with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, parenting, or binge eating? These are my specialities. I am a Stanford University trained Psychologist skilled in CBT to help you achieve your goals and gain balance in your life. I would be a good fit for you if you struggle with special needs parenting as I have personal experience and professional training to support you on that complex journey. My approach is eclectic and incorporates both present, goal-focused CBT/ACT/DBT along with insight oriented self-exploration. Can also offer Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
View
Photo of Sam Schaperow, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sam Schaperow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Waterford, CT 06385
Currently taking clients for >diagnostic evaluations<, couples, & >group therapy<. I am a caring, evidence-based, and holistic (consideration of the whole) therapist looking forward to challenging cases from people needing my expertise. Making use of a wide variety of therapies, from verbal to non-verbal, devoting much time on each of the select cases I take, and engaging in colleague consultations, I am often able to help with even the most challenging of issues. I also see children, doing family therapy even for the toughest kids. You'll see the difference family support makes, rather than my just trying to "fix the kid".
Currently taking clients for >diagnostic evaluations<, couples, & >group therapy<. I am a caring, evidence-based, and holistic (consideration of the whole) therapist looking forward to challenging cases from people needing my expertise. Making use of a wide variety of therapies, from verbal to non-verbal, devoting much time on each of the select cases I take, and engaging in colleague consultations, I am often able to help with even the most challenging of issues. I also see children, doing family therapy even for the toughest kids. You'll see the difference family support makes, rather than my just trying to "fix the kid".
(860) 553-3053 View (860) 553-3053
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.