Autism Therapists in Coconut Grove, FL

Photo of Zilla Simpson, LMHC, Counselor
Zilla Simpson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Zilla Simpson. I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad, exhausted or nervous?
Hi, I am Zilla Simpson. I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad, exhausted or nervous?
(305) 646-0112 View (305) 646-0112
Photo of Zandra Cue, LMHC, Counselor
Zandra Cue
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
My name is Zandra Cue, I'm a licensed mental health counselor, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervior, an Autplay provider, and a qualified supervisor for mental health registered interns. I've been working with children and parents for almost a decade in treating, assessing, and helping little ones with challenging emotions and situations. Therapy is so powerful for exploring, releasing and regulating BIG feelings.
My name is Zandra Cue, I'm a licensed mental health counselor, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervior, an Autplay provider, and a qualified supervisor for mental health registered interns. I've been working with children and parents for almost a decade in treating, assessing, and helping little ones with challenging emotions and situations. Therapy is so powerful for exploring, releasing and regulating BIG feelings.
(786) 800-5071 View (786) 800-5071
Photo of Felipe Regueira
Felipe Regueira
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
Life is both amazing and testing. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive space where you can feel safe to explore and understand your strengths as well as your personal challenges.  It’s OK to not have it all figured out right now, and with time you’ll be able to connect the dots in your life.  You already have what it takes to get there.  It takes courage to get there, and sometimes the support of a therapist.
Life is both amazing and testing. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive space where you can feel safe to explore and understand your strengths as well as your personal challenges.  It’s OK to not have it all figured out right now, and with time you’ll be able to connect the dots in your life.  You already have what it takes to get there.  It takes courage to get there, and sometimes the support of a therapist.
(786) 882-9677 View (786) 882-9677
Photo of Shay Harati, PsyD, Psychologist
Shay Harati
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges they face and supporting their mental and emotional well-being. I have a deep understanding of the unique needs and developmental stages of children and young adults, allowing me to provide effective and compassionate care. One of my primary goals is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions. I believe in the power of building a strong therapeutic alliance. I offer individual therapy, group therapy and psychological evaluations.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges they face and supporting their mental and emotional well-being. I have a deep understanding of the unique needs and developmental stages of children and young adults, allowing me to provide effective and compassionate care. One of my primary goals is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions. I believe in the power of building a strong therapeutic alliance. I offer individual therapy, group therapy and psychological evaluations.
(914) 350-4533 View (914) 350-4533

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jackie Jas, MS, BCBA
Jackie Jas
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33146
I work with children and adolescents with a wide array of developmental disabilities and disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and other neurological conditions.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who began my career volunteering in the Child Life department at Miami Children's Hospital, in 2007. It was there that I first developed a passion for helping children. I later discovered the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and loved that I could make a difference in the lives of others through the application of science. I provide ABA therapy where the behaviors are most likely to occur: in the home, at school, and in the community.
I work with children and adolescents with a wide array of developmental disabilities and disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and other neurological conditions.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who began my career volunteering in the Child Life department at Miami Children's Hospital, in 2007. It was there that I first developed a passion for helping children. I later discovered the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and loved that I could make a difference in the lives of others through the application of science. I provide ABA therapy where the behaviors are most likely to occur: in the home, at school, and in the community.
(786) 627-5149 View (786) 627-5149
Photo of Aly Rogers, MS, BCBA
Aly Rogers
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134
Aly is the therapist who proves that therapy can be fun, quirky, and still super effective. As a clinician specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she has a unique approach to mental health that combines humor and compassion to help individuals overcome symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Autism. Aly knows that mental health can be serious, but she also believes that it doesn't have to be stuffy and boring to work through challenges. Her approach to therapy helps patients find their own strengths & values, then acts as a guide for aligning their lives with those things that matter to them most.
Aly is the therapist who proves that therapy can be fun, quirky, and still super effective. As a clinician specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she has a unique approach to mental health that combines humor and compassion to help individuals overcome symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Autism. Aly knows that mental health can be serious, but she also believes that it doesn't have to be stuffy and boring to work through challenges. Her approach to therapy helps patients find their own strengths & values, then acts as a guide for aligning their lives with those things that matter to them most.
(857) 578-6178 View (857) 578-6178
Photo of Ashley Tirado-Martinez, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Tirado-Martinez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Miami, FL 33143
My interests include: Child and adolescent psychology, parent-child dynamics, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Are you struggling to connect with your child? Do they seem to be withdrawing, are not like themselves, or exhibiting challenging behaviors? Are they undergoing major life changes, having difficulties with academics, or struggling socializing with peers? I am here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. The demands of parenting are ever prevalent in today's society and can prove to be quite a challenge! My goal is to help you understand your child and better cope with the inevitable changes they'll have throughout their development.
My interests include: Child and adolescent psychology, parent-child dynamics, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Are you struggling to connect with your child? Do they seem to be withdrawing, are not like themselves, or exhibiting challenging behaviors? Are they undergoing major life changes, having difficulties with academics, or struggling socializing with peers? I am here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. The demands of parenting are ever prevalent in today's society and can prove to be quite a challenge! My goal is to help you understand your child and better cope with the inevitable changes they'll have throughout their development.
(786) 574-6820 View (786) 574-6820
Photo of Frank Perez-Verdecia, PsyD, LMHC, BCBA, Psychologist
Frank Perez-Verdecia
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33134
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with expertise in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, behavioral medicine, and applied behavior analysis. My combined experience has contributed positively to my diagnostic and treatment skills; particularly in the areas of autism, dementia, health-related psychological conditions, depression, anxiety, employment/academic problems, grief, parenting issues, attention/memory problems, adolescent-parent conflicts, divorce, etc. I treat people of all ages.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with expertise in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, behavioral medicine, and applied behavior analysis. My combined experience has contributed positively to my diagnostic and treatment skills; particularly in the areas of autism, dementia, health-related psychological conditions, depression, anxiety, employment/academic problems, grief, parenting issues, attention/memory problems, adolescent-parent conflicts, divorce, etc. I treat people of all ages.
(305) 917-5414 View (305) 917-5414
Photo of Belkys Elkin - Belkys Elkin & Associates, PsyD, LMHC, Psychologist
Belkys Elkin & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33134
She performed research at the University of Miami Brain Bank seeking cures for Autism, movement disorders, and TBI.
Belkys Elkin, PsyD, ABPP, is a Licensed Neuropsychologist & Licensed Mental Health Counselor & specializes in Neuropsychological Testing & Psychotherapy. Dr. Elkin completed her undergraduate studies at Loyola University in New Orleans and completed a neuropsychology doctorate at Carlos Albizu University in Miami. She speaks several languages and is trained in a variety of specialized areas.
She performed research at the University of Miami Brain Bank seeking cures for Autism, movement disorders, and TBI.
Belkys Elkin, PsyD, ABPP, is a Licensed Neuropsychologist & Licensed Mental Health Counselor & specializes in Neuropsychological Testing & Psychotherapy. Dr. Elkin completed her undergraduate studies at Loyola University in New Orleans and completed a neuropsychology doctorate at Carlos Albizu University in Miami. She speaks several languages and is trained in a variety of specialized areas.
(305) 928-1466 View (305) 928-1466
Photo of Taylor K. Young, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor K. Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Waitlist for new clients
I support families and neurodivergent adolescents with ADHD, autism, anxiety, OCD and with behavioral challenges.
My intention in therapy is to meet the uniqueness of the individual and create a relationship and therapy that supports his or her distinct process. I am an integrative therapist and believe in empowering individuals from the inside out. I blend traditional talk-therapy with body-based interventions and skill-building. My work is grounded in psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy. In this work, clients deepen their awareness of themselves, develop tools and skills, and become resourced by their own strengths and abilities.
I support families and neurodivergent adolescents with ADHD, autism, anxiety, OCD and with behavioral challenges.
My intention in therapy is to meet the uniqueness of the individual and create a relationship and therapy that supports his or her distinct process. I am an integrative therapist and believe in empowering individuals from the inside out. I blend traditional talk-therapy with body-based interventions and skill-building. My work is grounded in psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy. In this work, clients deepen their awareness of themselves, develop tools and skills, and become resourced by their own strengths and abilities.
(617) 934-1794 View (617) 934-1794
Photo of Annie Morrow, PhD, Psychologist
Annie Morrow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33146
I am a clinical psychologist with expertise in the assessment and treatment of disorders including ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression and more.
I help neurodivergent people understand themselves so they can thrive. It is an honor to walk with young people (and their families) as they get clear on their core values and grow to spend more time on what they care about. A lot can get in the way of our goals, like enjoying time with friends/family, reaching our potential at school/work...I often slow things down at first. I've met so many people who are tired of coping skills being jammed down their throat. Before jumping into solutions-mode, I like to take time to understand my clients' challenges, define their idea of success, and collaborate on the path to get there.
I am a clinical psychologist with expertise in the assessment and treatment of disorders including ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression and more.
I help neurodivergent people understand themselves so they can thrive. It is an honor to walk with young people (and their families) as they get clear on their core values and grow to spend more time on what they care about. A lot can get in the way of our goals, like enjoying time with friends/family, reaching our potential at school/work...I often slow things down at first. I've met so many people who are tired of coping skills being jammed down their throat. Before jumping into solutions-mode, I like to take time to understand my clients' challenges, define their idea of success, and collaborate on the path to get there.
(786) 977-5939 View (786) 977-5939
Photo of River Marino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
River Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33146  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide an autism-affirming perspective in therapy and believe autism is a genetically-based neurotype, not a medical disorder.
Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma.
I provide an autism-affirming perspective in therapy and believe autism is a genetically-based neurotype, not a medical disorder.
Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma.
(352) 415-9266 View (352) 415-9266
Photo of Andres Castro - NeuroCalm Healing Solutions, RMHCI
NeuroCalm Healing Solutions
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Congratulations on taking the first step in unlocking you or your child’s full potential. I specialize in research-based techniques tailored to the unique challenges faced by teens and adults with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other neurodivergent traits. It can be difficult to find your place in school or the work field, and feeling like you’re swimming against the tide can often lead to the development of Depression and Anxiety.
Congratulations on taking the first step in unlocking you or your child’s full potential. I specialize in research-based techniques tailored to the unique challenges faced by teens and adults with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other neurodivergent traits. It can be difficult to find your place in school or the work field, and feeling like you’re swimming against the tide can often lead to the development of Depression and Anxiety.
(786) 625-7202 View (786) 625-7202
Photo of Samantha Carella - Pediatric Psychology Associates, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Pediatric Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Miami, FL 33143
We also offer psychoeducational/neuropsychological testing for learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental issues.
Pediatric Psychology Associates (PPA) is a specialized practice composed of highly qualified and dedicated clinicians. Our therapists are caring and experienced in dealing with a range of issues affecting children and their families. Services provided include comprehensive psychological/psychoeducational evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, individual and family psychotherapy, social thinking and psychotherapy groups, and consults/trainings to schools, medical professionals in the community. Clinicians at PPA have expertise in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, eating disorders, anxiety and OCD, behavioral medicine issues, and general emotional/psychological concerns. Our practice also focuses on aspects of positive psychology and general enhancement of quality of life.
We also offer psychoeducational/neuropsychological testing for learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental issues.
Pediatric Psychology Associates (PPA) is a specialized practice composed of highly qualified and dedicated clinicians. Our therapists are caring and experienced in dealing with a range of issues affecting children and their families. Services provided include comprehensive psychological/psychoeducational evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, individual and family psychotherapy, social thinking and psychotherapy groups, and consults/trainings to schools, medical professionals in the community. Clinicians at PPA have expertise in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, eating disorders, anxiety and OCD, behavioral medicine issues, and general emotional/psychological concerns. Our practice also focuses on aspects of positive psychology and general enhancement of quality of life.
(305) 834-4541 View (305) 834-4541
Photo of Nicole Swaggerty-Valdes, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Swaggerty-Valdes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33146
I also specialize in diagnosing and treating autism spectrum disorder/Asperger's disorder in teens and adults.
As a licensed psychologist, I can help you become aware of your obstacles and move through them. Personal growth often requires recovering from past hurt and learning how to behave differently. This is a process that requires a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship. In treatment, my overarching goal is to provide a warm and supportive environment for you to explore your inner self and make lasting change. Although the prospect of change can feel daunting, most people find therapy to be tremendously helpful. Often the process requires setting new boundaries and prioritizing the self in the face of demanding schedules.
I also specialize in diagnosing and treating autism spectrum disorder/Asperger's disorder in teens and adults.
As a licensed psychologist, I can help you become aware of your obstacles and move through them. Personal growth often requires recovering from past hurt and learning how to behave differently. This is a process that requires a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship. In treatment, my overarching goal is to provide a warm and supportive environment for you to explore your inner self and make lasting change. Although the prospect of change can feel daunting, most people find therapy to be tremendously helpful. Often the process requires setting new boundaries and prioritizing the self in the face of demanding schedules.
(754) 227-0872 View (754) 227-0872
Photo of Valentina Libra, PhD
Valentina Libra
PhD
Verified Verified
South Miami, FL 33143
Libra: Psychological/Psycho-educational evaluations, Autism Spectrum Evaluations, Gifted/IQ Evaluations, Early Kindergarten Readiness Assessments, Evaluations for Standardized Testing Accommodations, and ADHD/Behavioral Evaluations.
Is your child struggling academically, or is s/he showing inconsistent progress? If you suspect that your child has a unique learning style that may be interfering with his or her academic progress, psychological testing may be helpful. The first step toward psychological, learning or behavior improvement is to understand the source of the difficulty. Our goal is to help children and adolescents achieve their full potential in both their academic and personal lives. Dr. Libra offers a variety of testing and assessment services that evaluate your child's psychological and academic performance identifying his or her strengths and weaknesses.
Libra: Psychological/Psycho-educational evaluations, Autism Spectrum Evaluations, Gifted/IQ Evaluations, Early Kindergarten Readiness Assessments, Evaluations for Standardized Testing Accommodations, and ADHD/Behavioral Evaluations.
Is your child struggling academically, or is s/he showing inconsistent progress? If you suspect that your child has a unique learning style that may be interfering with his or her academic progress, psychological testing may be helpful. The first step toward psychological, learning or behavior improvement is to understand the source of the difficulty. Our goal is to help children and adolescents achieve their full potential in both their academic and personal lives. Dr. Libra offers a variety of testing and assessment services that evaluate your child's psychological and academic performance identifying his or her strengths and weaknesses.
(754) 333-6221 View (754) 333-6221
Photo of Sarine Salama, LMHC, Counselor
Sarine Salama
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33143
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you going through a major life transition and need support navigating your emotions? My name is Sarine and I am a bi-lingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for MHC interns with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, conflict, life transitions, grief/loss and managing challenging behaviors in children and teens. I also have a passion for working with individuals with Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their family members.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you going through a major life transition and need support navigating your emotions? My name is Sarine and I am a bi-lingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for MHC interns with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, conflict, life transitions, grief/loss and managing challenging behaviors in children and teens. I also have a passion for working with individuals with Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their family members.
(786) 501-2792 View (786) 501-2792
Photo of Dr. Daisy Monterroso, DMFT, LMHC, BCaBA, Counselor
Dr. Daisy Monterroso
Counselor, DMFT, LMHC, BCaBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33134
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, PTSD, anger & stress management, autism, goal setting, body concerns, social skills, trauma and life transition, and parent training/parent coaching.
I work to facilitate healing with emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns with children, adolescents and adults in our offices in Pembroke Pines & South Miami, FL. I treat a variety of difficulties including behavioral problems, social skills deficits, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, family conflict, school-related concerns, motivational issues and issues related to childhood sexual abuse and trauma with a client-centered & collaborative solution oriented approach. Whether you are looking for healing or guidance, together we will work towards your preferred future!
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, PTSD, anger & stress management, autism, goal setting, body concerns, social skills, trauma and life transition, and parent training/parent coaching.
I work to facilitate healing with emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns with children, adolescents and adults in our offices in Pembroke Pines & South Miami, FL. I treat a variety of difficulties including behavioral problems, social skills deficits, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, family conflict, school-related concerns, motivational issues and issues related to childhood sexual abuse and trauma with a client-centered & collaborative solution oriented approach. Whether you are looking for healing or guidance, together we will work towards your preferred future!
(954) 874-8758 View (954) 874-8758
Photo of Luisa Fernanda Hernandez Medellin, PsyD, Psychologist
Luisa Fernanda Hernandez Medellin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33134
I am a Licensed Psychologist with expertise in Pediatric Neuropsychology and Behavioral Medicine. I work with pediatric patients and young adults with long COVID, TBI/concussions, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, brain tumors, arteriovenous malformation bleeds/strokes, demyelinating diseases, cancer, transplant recipients, general medical conditions and genetic disorders affecting the nervous system. I also specialize in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum (children and adults), developmental and learning disorders, attention-deficit and disruptive behavior disorders, comorbid anxiety, and mood disorders.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with expertise in Pediatric Neuropsychology and Behavioral Medicine. I work with pediatric patients and young adults with long COVID, TBI/concussions, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, brain tumors, arteriovenous malformation bleeds/strokes, demyelinating diseases, cancer, transplant recipients, general medical conditions and genetic disorders affecting the nervous system. I also specialize in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum (children and adults), developmental and learning disorders, attention-deficit and disruptive behavior disorders, comorbid anxiety, and mood disorders.
(786) 786-1361 View (786) 786-1361
Photo of Tatiana Hidalgo-Ferrer, PsyD, Psychologist
Tatiana Hidalgo-Ferrer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33146
I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults both in person and online. I also complete psychoeducational assessments, gifted testing, and ADHD and Autism assessments. I have experience in helping clients manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I provide therapy for children and their families to help them overcome a variety of mental health challenges such as developmental or behavioral concerns, school, and social life adjustment, defiant or risky behavior, parenting concerns, dealing with daily stressors, adjusting to phase of life changes, relationships, and career concerns.
I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults both in person and online. I also complete psychoeducational assessments, gifted testing, and ADHD and Autism assessments. I have experience in helping clients manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I provide therapy for children and their families to help them overcome a variety of mental health challenges such as developmental or behavioral concerns, school, and social life adjustment, defiant or risky behavior, parenting concerns, dealing with daily stressors, adjusting to phase of life changes, relationships, and career concerns.
(786) 977-8029 View (786) 977-8029

See more therapy options for Coconut Grove

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.