Autism Therapists in Boynton Beach, FL

Photo of Paige Whitley, LMHC, Counselor
Paige Whitley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33437  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 3 years of experience working with many different populations and addressing various concerns, including neurodivergence ( autism and ADHD), trauma (sexual assault and domestic violence), substance abuse, and anxiety/depression. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients become more mindful of where they currently are and where they want their mental health to be in the future. In 2020, I relocated to Florida and began working in private practice settings, where I have assisted clients in managing anxiety, depression, and other common mental health symptoms.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 3 years of experience working with many different populations and addressing various concerns, including neurodivergence ( autism and ADHD), trauma (sexual assault and domestic violence), substance abuse, and anxiety/depression. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients become more mindful of where they currently are and where they want their mental health to be in the future. In 2020, I relocated to Florida and began working in private practice settings, where I have assisted clients in managing anxiety, depression, and other common mental health symptoms.
(561) 678-5712 View (561) 678-5712
Photo of Sally Roscher - Measuring Minds Evaluations, EdS, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Measuring Minds Evaluations
Psychologist, EdS, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
I specialize in identifying various intellectual, academic, and behavioral disorders, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, learning disorders, anxiety, depression, and developmental delays.
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of school psychology. I have had the opportunity to work with children of all ages and special needs, particularly in assessing for autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. Before moving to Florida, I served as a licensed specialist in school psychology in Texas. I have a passion for providing parents with the information they need to ensure their child reaches their maximum potential. In addition to my years of formal training, I am also the mother of two young children who challenge my knowledge of child development on a daily basis.
I specialize in identifying various intellectual, academic, and behavioral disorders, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, learning disorders, anxiety, depression, and developmental delays.
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of school psychology. I have had the opportunity to work with children of all ages and special needs, particularly in assessing for autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. Before moving to Florida, I served as a licensed specialist in school psychology in Texas. I have a passion for providing parents with the information they need to ensure their child reaches their maximum potential. In addition to my years of formal training, I am also the mother of two young children who challenge my knowledge of child development on a daily basis.
(561) 448-6207 View (561) 448-6207
Photo of Robyn Cassel, PhD, Psychologist
Robyn Cassel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33473  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of difficulties including behavioral problems, social skills deficits, attention difficulties, anxiety/mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, sexual concerns, substance addiction, and abuse/trauma.
My goal is to listen to each client, hear the person's wants and needs, and support growth towards an increased state of self-awareness, life satisfaction, and relationship fulfillment. Despite the serious nature of issues discussed, my clients and I often find ourselves laughing together. I specialize in treatment/ assessment of psychological disorders in preschool/ school-aged children, adolescents, and adults. My focus on children helps me understand psychological underpinnings in adults I treat. I provide play therapy with children/families; group/individual psychotherapy with adolescents and adults; and I work extensively with individuals and couples presenting with a range of relationship/ sexual issues.
I work with a variety of difficulties including behavioral problems, social skills deficits, attention difficulties, anxiety/mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, sexual concerns, substance addiction, and abuse/trauma.
My goal is to listen to each client, hear the person's wants and needs, and support growth towards an increased state of self-awareness, life satisfaction, and relationship fulfillment. Despite the serious nature of issues discussed, my clients and I often find ourselves laughing together. I specialize in treatment/ assessment of psychological disorders in preschool/ school-aged children, adolescents, and adults. My focus on children helps me understand psychological underpinnings in adults I treat. I provide play therapy with children/families; group/individual psychotherapy with adolescents and adults; and I work extensively with individuals and couples presenting with a range of relationship/ sexual issues.
(561) 221-1668 View (561) 221-1668
Photo of Agathe Milhomme, PhD, LCSW, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Agathe Milhomme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33435
I hold doctorate degree in Psychology and a Master Degree in Social Work. I am currently licensed in state of Florida. I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals providing me with numerous and valuable experiences. My specialty is working with clients who are struggling with stress, depression, trauma, self-harm, anger, autism, low self-esteem, self-image, and women issues.
I hold doctorate degree in Psychology and a Master Degree in Social Work. I am currently licensed in state of Florida. I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals providing me with numerous and valuable experiences. My specialty is working with clients who are struggling with stress, depression, trauma, self-harm, anger, autism, low self-esteem, self-image, and women issues.
(561) 269-0936 View (561) 269-0936
Photo of George Zaky - George Zaky, Psy.D., LMHC, LLC, PsyD, LMHC, LLC, Psychologist
George Zaky, Psy.D., LMHC, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33435
Zaky specializes in assessments for intellectual, educational, ADHD, learning disabilities, memory disorders, autism, behavioral issues (children and teens), personality, mood disorders, anxiety (GAD, panic, PTSD), substance abuse, forensic (risk, criminal responsibility), presurgical readiness, guardianship, and vocational capabilities.
Dr. Zaky is a highly qualified mental health professional, licensed as both a Psychologist (License #PY8016) and a Mental Health Counselor (License #MH9083) in the state of Florida. With extensive training in Clinical, Forensic, and Neuropsychology, Dr. Zaky brings a wealth of expertise to his practice. Since 2001, Dr. Zaky has been dedicated to providing mental health services across Florida. He has experience working in community mental health settings and private practice, offering therapy, crisis intervention, and psychological assessments and evaluations. Dr. Zaky serves the Treasure Coast, Palm Beach and Browar
Zaky specializes in assessments for intellectual, educational, ADHD, learning disabilities, memory disorders, autism, behavioral issues (children and teens), personality, mood disorders, anxiety (GAD, panic, PTSD), substance abuse, forensic (risk, criminal responsibility), presurgical readiness, guardianship, and vocational capabilities.
Dr. Zaky is a highly qualified mental health professional, licensed as both a Psychologist (License #PY8016) and a Mental Health Counselor (License #MH9083) in the state of Florida. With extensive training in Clinical, Forensic, and Neuropsychology, Dr. Zaky brings a wealth of expertise to his practice. Since 2001, Dr. Zaky has been dedicated to providing mental health services across Florida. He has experience working in community mental health settings and private practice, offering therapy, crisis intervention, and psychological assessments and evaluations. Dr. Zaky serves the Treasure Coast, Palm Beach and Browar
(772) 617-8541 View (772) 617-8541
Photo of Alyse November, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyse November
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
(561) 264-1012 View (561) 264-1012
Photo of Ilene Kaskel, PsyD, Psychologist
Ilene Kaskel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
My assessment services include: Neuropsychological Evaluations, Psychoeducational/Learning Disability Evaluations Functional Behavioral Assessments Behavior Intervention Plans Personality Evaluations Gifted Evaluations ADHD Evaluations, Autism Evaluations, Adaptive Functioning Evaluations, and Vocational Interest and Aptitude Evaluations.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and am competent and experienced in providing comprehensive neuropsychological assessment services and psychological assessment services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have extensive experience treating a broad range of issues/conditions and have been trained in EMDR via a didactic program and supervised practicum. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR clinician and was trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy via an externship and intensive Core Skills training sessions.
My assessment services include: Neuropsychological Evaluations, Psychoeducational/Learning Disability Evaluations Functional Behavioral Assessments Behavior Intervention Plans Personality Evaluations Gifted Evaluations ADHD Evaluations, Autism Evaluations, Adaptive Functioning Evaluations, and Vocational Interest and Aptitude Evaluations.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and am competent and experienced in providing comprehensive neuropsychological assessment services and psychological assessment services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have extensive experience treating a broad range of issues/conditions and have been trained in EMDR via a didactic program and supervised practicum. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR clinician and was trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy via an externship and intensive Core Skills training sessions.
(561) 449-2436 View (561) 449-2436
Photo of Aryn R Wexler, PsyM
Aryn R Wexler
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, PsyM
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33473
As a holistic-integrative therapist, I provide a safe space for children and families who are committed to the therapeutic process, discover and thrive in their fully realized selves. From navigating life with a child who has unique needs, to co-parenting and negotiating the process of uncoupling (transitioning out of a partnership), to building resilience in the face of crisis, I’m here to walk alongside you. Therapy is a team effort; we are partners in this journey. Through our work together, you will come to believe in the possibility of a life beyond your wildest dreams.
As a holistic-integrative therapist, I provide a safe space for children and families who are committed to the therapeutic process, discover and thrive in their fully realized selves. From navigating life with a child who has unique needs, to co-parenting and negotiating the process of uncoupling (transitioning out of a partnership), to building resilience in the face of crisis, I’m here to walk alongside you. Therapy is a team effort; we are partners in this journey. Through our work together, you will come to believe in the possibility of a life beyond your wildest dreams.
(561) 944-3455 View (561) 944-3455
Photo of Crystal Rodriguez, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Crystal Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Perhaps, you are experiencing grief, relationship difficulties, family concerns or would like to improve your social skills. I work to empower my clients and increase their resiliency within a multicultural framework. I work with individuals, groups and families ranging from child to older adult, to provide a safe, affirming and inclusive space.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Perhaps, you are experiencing grief, relationship difficulties, family concerns or would like to improve your social skills. I work to empower my clients and increase their resiliency within a multicultural framework. I work with individuals, groups and families ranging from child to older adult, to provide a safe, affirming and inclusive space.
(561) 576-1816 View (561) 576-1816
Photo of Jeff A Engel - Music Therapy Guy, MA , MT-BC
Music Therapy Guy
MA , MT-BC
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
My ideal client likely contends with isolation and depression, along with stress, memory and cognitive issues. They need an outlet for communication and self-expression in a safe and nurturing environment. The quality of their life can be enhanced with the right therapy, providing them with a sense of dignity.
My ideal client likely contends with isolation and depression, along with stress, memory and cognitive issues. They need an outlet for communication and self-expression in a safe and nurturing environment. The quality of their life can be enhanced with the right therapy, providing them with a sense of dignity.
(561) 621-1194 View (561) 621-1194
Photo of Beth Pamela Siller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Pamela Siller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
Arts and Hearts Therapy is a creative approach to your child's needs. Is your child currently struggling to manage their big feelings? Are they finding it overwhelming and challenging to navigate their relationships with family and friends, establish a positive self-image, or manage their academic responsibilities alongside extra-curricular activities? Would you like some guidance and support around boundary setting, positive discipline practices, and authentic communication with your child? I've worked with children in academic settings since 2006. Various components of Early Childhood Education play a big role in my practice.
Arts and Hearts Therapy is a creative approach to your child's needs. Is your child currently struggling to manage their big feelings? Are they finding it overwhelming and challenging to navigate their relationships with family and friends, establish a positive self-image, or manage their academic responsibilities alongside extra-curricular activities? Would you like some guidance and support around boundary setting, positive discipline practices, and authentic communication with your child? I've worked with children in academic settings since 2006. Various components of Early Childhood Education play a big role in my practice.
(561) 677-9632 View (561) 677-9632
Photo of Chelsea Ellinger - Chelsea Ellinger Center for Change, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chelsea Ellinger Center for Change
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33437  (Online Only)
I strongly believe that our experiences shape our perspectives and influence how we move through our lives. Every individual is unique. While being impacted by social, cultural, economic, and spiritual experiences, I acknowledge that within each person lies inherent strengths to draw from towards healing and growth. My goal is to help each person discover and build upon those strengths in a safe environment, establishing a collaborative relationship with which we can work together through a tailored, integrated approach. I am honest and non-enabling in my approach as a social worker.
I strongly believe that our experiences shape our perspectives and influence how we move through our lives. Every individual is unique. While being impacted by social, cultural, economic, and spiritual experiences, I acknowledge that within each person lies inherent strengths to draw from towards healing and growth. My goal is to help each person discover and build upon those strengths in a safe environment, establishing a collaborative relationship with which we can work together through a tailored, integrated approach. I am honest and non-enabling in my approach as a social worker.
(561) 770-9868 View (561) 770-9868
Photo of Roopa Crawford, PsyD, Psychologist
Roopa Crawford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
I enjoy working with a variety of patients. Therapy can assist individuals: Achieve emotional stability, Stop self-destructive patterns of behaviors, Teach expression of feelings, Improve decision making skills, Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, Develop a healthier lifestyle, Improve relationships, Address grief and loss to name a few.
I enjoy working with a variety of patients. Therapy can assist individuals: Achieve emotional stability, Stop self-destructive patterns of behaviors, Teach expression of feelings, Improve decision making skills, Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, Develop a healthier lifestyle, Improve relationships, Address grief and loss to name a few.
(561) 708-4158 View (561) 708-4158
Photo of Tzippi Lisa Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tzippi Lisa Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
Throughout my 27 year career, I have worked within many facets of social work. I've worked in a Head Start program, a hospital setting, home care and special needs. Each of these settings has made me comfortable to work with patients and their families in all capacities. This includes crisis counseling, case management, resources and more.
Throughout my 27 year career, I have worked within many facets of social work. I've worked in a Head Start program, a hospital setting, home care and special needs. Each of these settings has made me comfortable to work with patients and their families in all capacities. This includes crisis counseling, case management, resources and more.
(561) 375-5169 View (561) 375-5169
Photo of Kaitlin Leithauser, LMHC, MFT, Counselor
Kaitlin Leithauser
Counselor, LMHC, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
Are you finding everyday life decisions overwhelming? Do you find that your bad days outweigh your good ones? Do you need to hit the emotional reset button? Being transparent about some of our hardships and issues is one of the bravest things we can do, and I am here to help. My goal is to assist you on your journey by providing a safe environment and building a strong therapeutic alliance by providing empathy, hope, validation, support and problem-solving as you work to overcome your issues. I believe you have all the tools you need to work through your issues and create change, let me assist you in uncovering them.
Are you finding everyday life decisions overwhelming? Do you find that your bad days outweigh your good ones? Do you need to hit the emotional reset button? Being transparent about some of our hardships and issues is one of the bravest things we can do, and I am here to help. My goal is to assist you on your journey by providing a safe environment and building a strong therapeutic alliance by providing empathy, hope, validation, support and problem-solving as you work to overcome your issues. I believe you have all the tools you need to work through your issues and create change, let me assist you in uncovering them.
(561) 448-9557 View (561) 448-9557
Photo of Karen Kriger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Kriger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33473  (Online Only)
We live in a time where we are being pushed beyond our limits, especially now with covid-19. Everyone is experiencing pressure as it relates to their finances, their families,employment and school. Due to the impact of these stressful situations, many people need guidance to find solutions to make their lives less overwhelming. I attempt to provide a warm,supportive environment for my clients.I am successful in forming positive relationships with adolescents, adults and families. In therapy sessions, I tend to use a goal oriented approach so my clients can leave feeling confident that they can handle all that life brings their way.
We live in a time where we are being pushed beyond our limits, especially now with covid-19. Everyone is experiencing pressure as it relates to their finances, their families,employment and school. Due to the impact of these stressful situations, many people need guidance to find solutions to make their lives less overwhelming. I attempt to provide a warm,supportive environment for my clients.I am successful in forming positive relationships with adolescents, adults and families. In therapy sessions, I tend to use a goal oriented approach so my clients can leave feeling confident that they can handle all that life brings their way.
(954) 543-1891 View (954) 543-1891
Photo of Tynashkee Chapman-Colbert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tynashkee Chapman-Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
My name is Nasha Chapman-Colbert and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Are you experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, interpersonal relationships, or anger? If so, a clinical counselor (therapist) can help. I have worked in the social work field for over 7 years, and I have provided therapy-based services for the last 3 years. I work with individuals, families, and children from all ethnic backgrounds and different socioeconomic statuses. My goal is to always meet my clients where they are, and we work together to determine where you want to get to.
My name is Nasha Chapman-Colbert and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Are you experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, interpersonal relationships, or anger? If so, a clinical counselor (therapist) can help. I have worked in the social work field for over 7 years, and I have provided therapy-based services for the last 3 years. I work with individuals, families, and children from all ethnic backgrounds and different socioeconomic statuses. My goal is to always meet my clients where they are, and we work together to determine where you want to get to.
(561) 325-6896 View (561) 325-6896
Photo of Patrice Migliori-Farnes - Reflections Creative Therapies Group, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reflections Creative Therapies Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
Welcome to your safe space! At Reflections Creative Therapies Group, we dedicate ourselves to helping you experience transformation. We accomplish this with the integration of traditional psychotherapy and experiential modalities. We specialize in using Sand Tray Therapy, Psychodrama, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and expressive therapies to facilitate healing. Our therapists are also trained in EMDR, an effective highly researched yet gentle therapy for trauma resolution and biofeedback non-invasive methods. We have several faith-based counselors for those of you who prefer the integration of scripture and prayer in sessions.
Welcome to your safe space! At Reflections Creative Therapies Group, we dedicate ourselves to helping you experience transformation. We accomplish this with the integration of traditional psychotherapy and experiential modalities. We specialize in using Sand Tray Therapy, Psychodrama, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and expressive therapies to facilitate healing. Our therapists are also trained in EMDR, an effective highly researched yet gentle therapy for trauma resolution and biofeedback non-invasive methods. We have several faith-based counselors for those of you who prefer the integration of scripture and prayer in sessions.
(561) 823-2628 View (561) 823-2628
Photo of David C Boltson, BA, MA, MS, PsyD, Psychologist
David C Boltson
Psychologist, BA, MA, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
I am engaging, personable, and a National Merit Scholar. I help clients get the results they want by drawing out their strengths and enhancing their interpersonal skills. I have been executive and clinical director of hospital and outpatient community mental health programs, as well as a management consultant. In the process, I have supervised numerous psychologists and social workers over the years. I have advanced training in hypnotic techniques which may be useful for panic and anxiety disorders, weight loss, and stress management. I strive to be a useful and pragmatic "success coach" for both my corporate and private clients
I am engaging, personable, and a National Merit Scholar. I help clients get the results they want by drawing out their strengths and enhancing their interpersonal skills. I have been executive and clinical director of hospital and outpatient community mental health programs, as well as a management consultant. In the process, I have supervised numerous psychologists and social workers over the years. I have advanced training in hypnotic techniques which may be useful for panic and anxiety disorders, weight loss, and stress management. I strive to be a useful and pragmatic "success coach" for both my corporate and private clients
(561) 536-3447 View (561) 536-3447
Photo of Linda Wechter-Ashkin, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Linda Wechter-Ashkin
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
Hello wonderful community! As a licensed psychologist, I'm on a mission to create a safe space for positive mental health and growth. I have a background as an educational psychologist, a certified and licensed school psychologist, a life coach and certified love and respect marriage mentor. I provide solution-based therapy for children and adults going through transitions that cause stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. I offer gifted testing as well as educational, and neuropsychological testing followed by comprehensive treatment plans for children and adults experiencing academic, cognitive or behavioral underachievement.
Hello wonderful community! As a licensed psychologist, I'm on a mission to create a safe space for positive mental health and growth. I have a background as an educational psychologist, a certified and licensed school psychologist, a life coach and certified love and respect marriage mentor. I provide solution-based therapy for children and adults going through transitions that cause stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. I offer gifted testing as well as educational, and neuropsychological testing followed by comprehensive treatment plans for children and adults experiencing academic, cognitive or behavioral underachievement.
(561) 404-9694 View (561) 404-9694
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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.