Therapists in Wethersfield, CT
![Photo of John Suchocki, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40195577-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
John Suchocki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling depressed, lonely, anxious, or irritable? Are you and your partner having the same argument over and over again? I have been helping individuals create positive changes in their lives for over 20 years. I provide a relaxed, strength-based, and solution-focused atmosphere to empower individuals to meet and exceed their goals. As a licensed therapist and a certified school counselor, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with various concerns and issues. These include anxiety, depression, OCD, alcohol and drug abuse, infidelity, divorce, school problems, and relationship / family conflicts.
Are you feeling depressed, lonely, anxious, or irritable? Are you and your partner having the same argument over and over again? I have been helping individuals create positive changes in their lives for over 20 years. I provide a relaxed, strength-based, and solution-focused atmosphere to empower individuals to meet and exceed their goals. As a licensed therapist and a certified school counselor, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with various concerns and issues. These include anxiety, depression, OCD, alcohol and drug abuse, infidelity, divorce, school problems, and relationship / family conflicts.
![Photo of Shaina Ianniello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed161f74-f504-4aac-86ea-a6efa9cdec18/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a trauma therapist, I am here to support my clients with the empathy and compassion they deserve. I firmly believe each of us has a story different from the other, consisting of different experiences that have shaped the core beliefs of ourselves and the world we live in. We each have a right to share our stories, make meaning, and develop healthy strategies and habits to better function in our environments. With specialized training in trauma and experience utilizing several models of therapy, I take an integrative approach in treating a variety of psycho-social concerns in children, adolescents, adults, and families.
As a trauma therapist, I am here to support my clients with the empathy and compassion they deserve. I firmly believe each of us has a story different from the other, consisting of different experiences that have shaped the core beliefs of ourselves and the world we live in. We each have a right to share our stories, make meaning, and develop healthy strategies and habits to better function in our environments. With specialized training in trauma and experience utilizing several models of therapy, I take an integrative approach in treating a variety of psycho-social concerns in children, adolescents, adults, and families.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Melissa Marris - Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC, MOT, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bfbd2f6-f41d-4540-8c36-d5846f14298c/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Gonzalez Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b661e908-1429-42d2-bf78-39cae32e3125/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Gonzalez Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06105
I have experience with working with children as young as 3, families, adolescents and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I've worked with individuals with special needs and adolescent and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, across the State of Connecticut , and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very lucky to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
I have experience with working with children as young as 3, families, adolescents and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I've worked with individuals with special needs and adolescent and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, across the State of Connecticut , and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very lucky to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
![Photo of Dr. Kimberly Zito, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c23c5c95-bbc9-4191-9722-c49cb1cbefa9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in providing comprehensive psychological evaluations and diagnostic assessments for concerns related to ADHD, autism, mood, anxiety, learning, behavior, etc.
Searching for a therapist is a vulnerable and intimate decision towards self-exploration. I am dedicated to holding space for you to heal, explore, and connect to your authentic self, while helping you to strengthen your inner resources. Working with individuals across the lifespan, I strive to facilitate a deepening of the relationship with self and other. Whether you want to address a particular concern within your life, navigate a new transition, recover from a recent or past trauma, shift negative behavior patterns, or resolve uncomfortable feelings or emotions, I am here.
I also specialize in providing comprehensive psychological evaluations and diagnostic assessments for concerns related to ADHD, autism, mood, anxiety, learning, behavior, etc.
Searching for a therapist is a vulnerable and intimate decision towards self-exploration. I am dedicated to holding space for you to heal, explore, and connect to your authentic self, while helping you to strengthen your inner resources. Working with individuals across the lifespan, I strive to facilitate a deepening of the relationship with self and other. Whether you want to address a particular concern within your life, navigate a new transition, recover from a recent or past trauma, shift negative behavior patterns, or resolve uncomfortable feelings or emotions, I am here.
![Photo of Catherine A Hogan - Catherine A Hogan-Autism Communications Specialist, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9a64b0-edb5-4e75-80ef-35612c0877ab/4/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine A Hogan-Autism Communications Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06110 (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.
![Photo of John Syc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5372493d-c537-4b09-bd8e-c2b0793be3a2/2/320x400.png)
John Syc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cromwell, CT 06416 (Online Only)
Feeling alien in a world that doesn't understand you, struggling with a disconnect between your current self and your authentic essence, can be deeply isolating. As a gifted, twice-exceptional (2e), or highly sensitive individual, you've relied on adaptive behaviors that once protected you but now hold you back. Facing existential crises and conflicting emotions, you yearn for personal growth and a deeper understanding of yourself. This journey requires courage and insight to navigate the path toward becoming your true self.
Feeling alien in a world that doesn't understand you, struggling with a disconnect between your current self and your authentic essence, can be deeply isolating. As a gifted, twice-exceptional (2e), or highly sensitive individual, you've relied on adaptive behaviors that once protected you but now hold you back. Facing existential crises and conflicting emotions, you yearn for personal growth and a deeper understanding of yourself. This journey requires courage and insight to navigate the path toward becoming your true self.
![Photo of Jennifer Charles, LPCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dca2514-c10f-4f3d-91d1-ec11d9c24090/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide a safe space for individuals who are struggling with life issues, anxiety, depression, or figuring out their next steps. I prefer an integrative approach, where I can integrate different approaches and techniques tailored to each individual. I have experience working with children, teens, young adults, and adults, 60 years and older; who struggle with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, adjusting to new stressors, ADHD, and mood disorders. I am here to support you in this journey called life.
My goal is to provide a safe space for individuals who are struggling with life issues, anxiety, depression, or figuring out their next steps. I prefer an integrative approach, where I can integrate different approaches and techniques tailored to each individual. I have experience working with children, teens, young adults, and adults, 60 years and older; who struggle with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, adjusting to new stressors, ADHD, and mood disorders. I am here to support you in this journey called life.
![Photo of Molly Ivo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e3f3de6-34b1-48ed-8585-8561da1fb75a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Ivo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Hill, CT 06067 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone curious about their current and past experiences and how those impact their current challenges and strengths. Whatever trauma or setbacks altered your life, whatever questions you have yet to answer, and whatever your unique assets are all comes together in your unique story - I encourage clients to question, explore, and seek deeper understanding in therapy, especially with humor and creativity.
My ideal client is someone curious about their current and past experiences and how those impact their current challenges and strengths. Whatever trauma or setbacks altered your life, whatever questions you have yet to answer, and whatever your unique assets are all comes together in your unique story - I encourage clients to question, explore, and seek deeper understanding in therapy, especially with humor and creativity.
![Photo of Frank Jonathan Stoll, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d8c1da6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
With over 30 years clinical experience and training at Harvard, Princeton and University of Chicago, I treat individuals and families, ranging in age from pre-teens to adults. I help clients achieve relief from emotional distress, enhance self-esteem, and restore the quality of their relationships and work/academic functioning. Clients seek my assistance on such problems as anxiety, depression, existential issues, life transitions, trauma, cognitive/learning disorders, behavior problems, as well as sexual dysfunction and addictions.
With over 30 years clinical experience and training at Harvard, Princeton and University of Chicago, I treat individuals and families, ranging in age from pre-teens to adults. I help clients achieve relief from emotional distress, enhance self-esteem, and restore the quality of their relationships and work/academic functioning. Clients seek my assistance on such problems as anxiety, depression, existential issues, life transitions, trauma, cognitive/learning disorders, behavior problems, as well as sexual dysfunction and addictions.
![Photo of Dr. Rachel Carlson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45052b2c-f393-4559-a57f-41d51bfb1063/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rachel Carlson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with teens, young adults, and adults, particularly around issues of life transitions, identity, values, and meaning. I have expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, depression and anxiety, trauma, OCD, and communication issues. I will never judge you for your darkness and will reflect your light back at you until you see it. I am passionate about helping you understand what is going on inside your brain so you don’t think you are broken. However, I believe you are the expert on your own life and we will work together to figure out what approach to therapy will meet your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with teens, young adults, and adults, particularly around issues of life transitions, identity, values, and meaning. I have expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, depression and anxiety, trauma, OCD, and communication issues. I will never judge you for your darkness and will reflect your light back at you until you see it. I am passionate about helping you understand what is going on inside your brain so you don’t think you are broken. However, I believe you are the expert on your own life and we will work together to figure out what approach to therapy will meet your needs.
![Photo of Lisa Langweil, MS, CCC-SLP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8935bada-6c85-4b4b-8832-6b92a288fa3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
You are not alone; If you need me, I’m here to help! I provide assessment, intervention, education and coaching for children and adults with speech, language, and cognitive- communication difficulties due developmentally and/or neurologically based issues. I’ve been fortunate to have worked in a variety of settings providing me with a wide array of experiences. After 28 years of experience, I continue to love my field of work and my passion translates into providing quality care to my clients and their families. Helping individuals and their families learn, grow and become more confident and competent communicators is important.
You are not alone; If you need me, I’m here to help! I provide assessment, intervention, education and coaching for children and adults with speech, language, and cognitive- communication difficulties due developmentally and/or neurologically based issues. I’ve been fortunate to have worked in a variety of settings providing me with a wide array of experiences. After 28 years of experience, I continue to love my field of work and my passion translates into providing quality care to my clients and their families. Helping individuals and their families learn, grow and become more confident and competent communicators is important.
![Photo of Kristen Racheal Perkins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec987d5e-6b9b-4019-b974-1a699052bbb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Racheal Perkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
I have been working as a clinician in the mental health field for seven years, I have learned that out of all the treatment modalities that mindfulness is the most enriching for the entire body. Human beings often forget that we have no control over yesterday and no control over tomorrow, that we can only control what is happening right now. Being more in the moment. I have worked with and helped many people with a multitude of psychiatric issues, I find the brain fascinating, and I also believe that people think that they are alone when they aren't, and I enjoy helping people face those challenges.
I have been working as a clinician in the mental health field for seven years, I have learned that out of all the treatment modalities that mindfulness is the most enriching for the entire body. Human beings often forget that we have no control over yesterday and no control over tomorrow, that we can only control what is happening right now. Being more in the moment. I have worked with and helped many people with a multitude of psychiatric issues, I find the brain fascinating, and I also believe that people think that they are alone when they aren't, and I enjoy helping people face those challenges.
![Photo of Joel Becker, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7cb0665-33d0-4a96-b2cf-00e28f39b485/1/320x400.jpeg)
A substantial subgroup recovering from COVID-19 are experiencing cognitive and/or Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the infection. I am providing screening and assessment of such symptoms. I am also working with the treatment of individuals recovering from COVID-19 providing Behavioral Medicine services. Panic attacks and overwhelming Anxiety including, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms, PTSD, and Phobias have been observed. Alterations in mental status, decreased attention, focus, and cognitive fatigue are some of the neurocognitive symptoms worked with. The latest research and Best Practice Treatments are utilized.
A substantial subgroup recovering from COVID-19 are experiencing cognitive and/or Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the infection. I am providing screening and assessment of such symptoms. I am also working with the treatment of individuals recovering from COVID-19 providing Behavioral Medicine services. Panic attacks and overwhelming Anxiety including, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms, PTSD, and Phobias have been observed. Alterations in mental status, decreased attention, focus, and cognitive fatigue are some of the neurocognitive symptoms worked with. The latest research and Best Practice Treatments are utilized.
![Photo of Dr. Lynn Kratzer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc448ab-deed-47f0-8de8-ee95d297930b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or someone close to you, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress or life transitions? Would you like to feel more positive about yourself, cope better, understand your strong emotions, and make changes in your life? Do you have a child or a teen who needs support and you worry about them? Learning to understand thoughts, emotions and behavior that seem confusing, frustrating or unpredictable can help with seeing ourselves in a more positive light and in feeling more in control.
Are you or someone close to you, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress or life transitions? Would you like to feel more positive about yourself, cope better, understand your strong emotions, and make changes in your life? Do you have a child or a teen who needs support and you worry about them? Learning to understand thoughts, emotions and behavior that seem confusing, frustrating or unpredictable can help with seeing ourselves in a more positive light and in feeling more in control.
![Photo of Chelsea Humphrey - Tides of Mind Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe804870-0fd9-4b0a-84e5-7b0a125748cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tides of Mind Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06105
Tides of Mind Counseling is among Connecticut's top counseling centers dedicated to providing excellence in mental healthcare. Our offices are located throughout CT where our licensed professionals work extensively with you to manage life's challenges, promote healthy relationships and encourage inner healing. Tides of Mind is unlike the common "counseling clinic" in that we offer creative & holistic therapeutic techniques in an office that is private, relaxing and has a spa-like feel. Our therapists provide a holistic approach to treatment and ensure that you feel supported and empowered throughout all aspects of life.
Tides of Mind Counseling is among Connecticut's top counseling centers dedicated to providing excellence in mental healthcare. Our offices are located throughout CT where our licensed professionals work extensively with you to manage life's challenges, promote healthy relationships and encourage inner healing. Tides of Mind is unlike the common "counseling clinic" in that we offer creative & holistic therapeutic techniques in an office that is private, relaxing and has a spa-like feel. Our therapists provide a holistic approach to treatment and ensure that you feel supported and empowered throughout all aspects of life.
![Photo of Sursatie D Chetram-Frazier Phd, PhD, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e513935-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sursatie D Chetram-Frazier Phd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06103
Radiance Counseling Center (RCC) specializes in therapeutic services for Individuals, Couples and Groups, as well as Clinical Assessments and Virtual Therapy. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Private Insurance, Private and Public Funding, Governmental Agencies, Cash and Credit Cards. We offer flexible, individualized hours for our clients.
Radiance Counseling Center (RCC) specializes in therapeutic services for Individuals, Couples and Groups, as well as Clinical Assessments and Virtual Therapy. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Private Insurance, Private and Public Funding, Governmental Agencies, Cash and Credit Cards. We offer flexible, individualized hours for our clients.
![Photo of Kristine Schlichting - Hopewell Health Solutions Psychology Group, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8106250-ae85-4236-a80d-f33191ba212f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hopewell Health Solutions Psychology Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Hi! This is your first step to feeling and doing better- it is very difficult to find a place that that you can trust with your mental health. We have been in thriving for the last 14 years and the reason is that our clients are provided with an exceptional experience at HHS. We will match you with a therapist who specializes in what you are seeking and put you on the road to getting better. We also have other services in house such as medication management, psychiatric care, and outpatient group programs. We work together to address all the issues that can come up during your journey to health and wellness!
Hi! This is your first step to feeling and doing better- it is very difficult to find a place that that you can trust with your mental health. We have been in thriving for the last 14 years and the reason is that our clients are provided with an exceptional experience at HHS. We will match you with a therapist who specializes in what you are seeking and put you on the road to getting better. We also have other services in house such as medication management, psychiatric care, and outpatient group programs. We work together to address all the issues that can come up during your journey to health and wellness!
![Photo of Whitney Hoke, MA, LMHC , LCPC, BCDMT-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad66769e-f88c-459b-a64e-ae68ab16eaf3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney Hoke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMHC , LCPC, BCDMT-R
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06101 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults with anxiety, depression, and behavioral/emotional challenges. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Clinician (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor(LCPC) in the state of Maine, and a Board-Certified Dance/Movement therapist (BCDMT-R). I take a holistic, person centered approach to therapy emphasizing the mind/body connection while incorporating evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT. Currently I am only offering Telehealth services in the states of MA, ME, and CT.
I specialize in working with adults with anxiety, depression, and behavioral/emotional challenges. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Clinician (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor(LCPC) in the state of Maine, and a Board-Certified Dance/Movement therapist (BCDMT-R). I take a holistic, person centered approach to therapy emphasizing the mind/body connection while incorporating evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT. Currently I am only offering Telehealth services in the states of MA, ME, and CT.
![Photo of Leesa Sklover, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb1bbff9-14c5-4714-a470-111178c3c502/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leesa Sklover
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
See more therapy options for Wethersfield
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.