Therapists in Fruit Cove, FL
![Photo of Antonia Carter - The Center for Developing Minds, LLC, MA, LMHC, PA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc3923b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Of Special Note: Our Center's clinicians also specialize in evaluation and evidence-based treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
My goal is to provide a comfortable and relaxed environment to help you achieve your counseling goals. The counseling process will focus on you, the individual, resolving the difficult issues you are currently dealing with, at the pace that you are comfortable with. Whether you are seeking counseling for yourself, your child, or your family, I will be sure you are treated with respect and formulate an achievable, flexible treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
Of Special Note: Our Center's clinicians also specialize in evaluation and evidence-based treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
My goal is to provide a comfortable and relaxed environment to help you achieve your counseling goals. The counseling process will focus on you, the individual, resolving the difficult issues you are currently dealing with, at the pace that you are comfortable with. Whether you are seeking counseling for yourself, your child, or your family, I will be sure you are treated with respect and formulate an achievable, flexible treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
![Photo of Cassandre Francois, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2caf436-db89-4442-bbc8-c2450ec4363b/1/320x400.png)
Do you struggle with believing in yourself and making confident decisions? I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, and Parenting. I will give feedback for you to make proud decisions while learning coping skills and trusting yourself. I will be a guide in your journey using a trauma-informed and gender-affirming methods.
Do you struggle with believing in yourself and making confident decisions? I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, and Parenting. I will give feedback for you to make proud decisions while learning coping skills and trusting yourself. I will be a guide in your journey using a trauma-informed and gender-affirming methods.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Adrienne Leigh Desantis King - Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health, PhD, BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d46040ad-a5ac-4455-b318-43de4caf6f52/1/320x400.jpeg)
, gifted, psychological, psycho-educational, and diagnostic testing, including administration of the ADOS-2 for Autism evaluations), school consultation, and Special Education advocacy.
The directors of Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health (BPBH), Dr. Adrienne DeSantis King, and Dr. Paras Nabizadeh, welcome you! BPBH has a team of Psychologists, Therapists, and Behavior Analysts, with speech, PT, and OT services provided by our partner agency on site! We specialize in evaluating and treating Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and disruptive behavior concerns, as well as anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, adjustment problems, and/or learning difficulties for children 18 mo-18 yrs of age. The FASTEST way to get started is to complete the new client inquiry at WWW.BeaconPediatric.com!
, gifted, psychological, psycho-educational, and diagnostic testing, including administration of the ADOS-2 for Autism evaluations), school consultation, and Special Education advocacy.
The directors of Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health (BPBH), Dr. Adrienne DeSantis King, and Dr. Paras Nabizadeh, welcome you! BPBH has a team of Psychologists, Therapists, and Behavior Analysts, with speech, PT, and OT services provided by our partner agency on site! We specialize in evaluating and treating Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and disruptive behavior concerns, as well as anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, adjustment problems, and/or learning difficulties for children 18 mo-18 yrs of age. The FASTEST way to get started is to complete the new client inquiry at WWW.BeaconPediatric.com!
![Photo of Dr. Jearlean Ruiz Marin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4741e5f-9e8c-4b64-9229-b80ddb622127/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking support in navigating the unique challenges of ADHD or Autism? You're not alone. I understand the complexities of living with neurodivergent conditions, from managing daily tasks to navigating relationships and emotions. My goal is to help you thrive by creating a safe space where you can explore your strengths, develop coping strategies, and build the life you envision. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, grief, or relationship challenges, I’m here to provide the guidance and tools to help you gain clarity, confidence, and control over your life.
Are you seeking support in navigating the unique challenges of ADHD or Autism? You're not alone. I understand the complexities of living with neurodivergent conditions, from managing daily tasks to navigating relationships and emotions. My goal is to help you thrive by creating a safe space where you can explore your strengths, develop coping strategies, and build the life you envision. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, grief, or relationship challenges, I’m here to provide the guidance and tools to help you gain clarity, confidence, and control over your life.
![Photo of Dr. Amaris A. Avellan, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eed21d9-e4ba-43d3-9ef3-8f4fbf2abdb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of focus include psychological assessment, counseling therapy with pediatric, adolescent and adult clients, and African American psychology for clients with autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, blended families, and military or veteran related stressors.
Hi! In a world where so many of us regularly get the message that we are flawed, I think it is important to start by saying something that we might not hear so regularly, which is, that it is okay to be you. But if I’m being honest, being yourself is not always an easy thing to do. As a therapist, I place priority in creating a therapy environment where clients feel safe to share the most authentic versions of themselves without fear of judgement. In addition to a safe therapeutic space, my goal is to assist clients on their paths towards self-expression and self-acceptance no matter where they are in their journey.
My areas of focus include psychological assessment, counseling therapy with pediatric, adolescent and adult clients, and African American psychology for clients with autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, blended families, and military or veteran related stressors.
Hi! In a world where so many of us regularly get the message that we are flawed, I think it is important to start by saying something that we might not hear so regularly, which is, that it is okay to be you. But if I’m being honest, being yourself is not always an easy thing to do. As a therapist, I place priority in creating a therapy environment where clients feel safe to share the most authentic versions of themselves without fear of judgement. In addition to a safe therapeutic space, my goal is to assist clients on their paths towards self-expression and self-acceptance no matter where they are in their journey.
![Photo of Jill Driest, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4027a366-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience in the assessment of development disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, gifted, and learning disorders.
I'm dedicated to supporting your child's social, emotional, intellectual, and behavioral development by focusing on using evidence-based services so that your child receives the best care possible. I strive to communicate openly with family members and to collaborate with other professionals including teachers and pediatricians so that all of your child's needs are met.
I have extensive experience in the assessment of development disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, gifted, and learning disorders.
I'm dedicated to supporting your child's social, emotional, intellectual, and behavioral development by focusing on using evidence-based services so that your child receives the best care possible. I strive to communicate openly with family members and to collaborate with other professionals including teachers and pediatricians so that all of your child's needs are met.
![Photo of Max Horovitz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd48d325-296c-47b3-8c18-72e7ff76b1ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents in various capacities across development. I specialize in completing developmental, diagnostic and psychoeducational evaluations. Evaluations I complete are often looking to rule out the presence of diagnoses that include Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning concerns, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, and depression, among others. I also provide therapy for children and their parents for a range of emotional and behavioral needs. A focus is given to skill development, both for children and parents.
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents in various capacities across development. I specialize in completing developmental, diagnostic and psychoeducational evaluations. Evaluations I complete are often looking to rule out the presence of diagnoses that include Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning concerns, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, and depression, among others. I also provide therapy for children and their parents for a range of emotional and behavioral needs. A focus is given to skill development, both for children and parents.
![Photo of Larry W Neidigh - Community Behavioral Services, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8967c7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Flynn has specialized in diagnosis and evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Community Behavioral Services provides the highest quality counseling, psychotherapy, and psychological evaluations. Our staff of 10 therapists cover a wide variety of specialties and services.
Flynn has specialized in diagnosis and evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Community Behavioral Services provides the highest quality counseling, psychotherapy, and psychological evaluations. Our staff of 10 therapists cover a wide variety of specialties and services.
![Photo of David Smith, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cd6a2f0-41f2-47c9-bd30-c619cc89b5f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258 (Online Only)
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
![Photo of Abigail Levrini - Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40736a55-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psych Ed Connections is a psychological and educational practice committed to integrating the best available research with clinical expertise. Owned by Dr. Abigail Levrini, leading ADHD expert and bestselling author, and operated by doctoral level clinicians, Psych Ed Connections desires to serve clients of all ages looking to achieve their educational and life goals, learn more about themselves, or reach their potential. We are experts in areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, parenting, play therapy, and more. Psych Ed also conducts testing for Autism, ADHD, mood disorders, TBI and Giftedness.
Psych Ed Connections is a psychological and educational practice committed to integrating the best available research with clinical expertise. Owned by Dr. Abigail Levrini, leading ADHD expert and bestselling author, and operated by doctoral level clinicians, Psych Ed Connections desires to serve clients of all ages looking to achieve their educational and life goals, learn more about themselves, or reach their potential. We are experts in areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, parenting, play therapy, and more. Psych Ed also conducts testing for Autism, ADHD, mood disorders, TBI and Giftedness.
![Photo of Alicia Busic - Alicia Busic, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4453455e-fc4d-405b-a271-c49771e9e9fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Busic, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32092
My focus has been in but not limited to depression, anxiety, perinatal, trauma, medical issues, parenting, autism, and life transitions.
Accepting new clients in Florida and Oklahoma! My name is Alicia and I am so glad you are visiting my page. If you are here, then that means you are interested in finding hope and healing in the midst of life’s difficulties. It can be scary seeking help, so I admire your courage by taking the first step. My role is to meet you where you are. My first step is getting to know you so that I can utilize your strengths and abilities to create positive changes in your life. If you are working through a lifetime of difficult situations or if you have encountered a season of life that has been challenging, please reach out.
My focus has been in but not limited to depression, anxiety, perinatal, trauma, medical issues, parenting, autism, and life transitions.
Accepting new clients in Florida and Oklahoma! My name is Alicia and I am so glad you are visiting my page. If you are here, then that means you are interested in finding hope and healing in the midst of life’s difficulties. It can be scary seeking help, so I admire your courage by taking the first step. My role is to meet you where you are. My first step is getting to know you so that I can utilize your strengths and abilities to create positive changes in your life. If you are working through a lifetime of difficult situations or if you have encountered a season of life that has been challenging, please reach out.
![Photo of Dr. Amy Hartley, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f878dc4-40c2-451d-a087-6ac90a16dbf1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you need an ADHD evaluation or other type of evaluation? I am Dr. Amy Hartley and have been a psychologist for nearly 15 years. I specialize in the psychological assessment of children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as learning and cognition, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, memory, achievement, autism spectrum, and intellectual functioning. Additionally, I provide psychotherapy for adults and adolescents for anxiety, panic, depression, and trauma and for those needing to improve their relationship or those recovering from infidelity or a major life event or loss.
Do you need an ADHD evaluation or other type of evaluation? I am Dr. Amy Hartley and have been a psychologist for nearly 15 years. I specialize in the psychological assessment of children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as learning and cognition, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, memory, achievement, autism spectrum, and intellectual functioning. Additionally, I provide psychotherapy for adults and adolescents for anxiety, panic, depression, and trauma and for those needing to improve their relationship or those recovering from infidelity or a major life event or loss.
![Photo of Margaret Reeves - Dr Reeves VIP Therapy PLLC, PhD, MS, CAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f36438d1-2306-47fe-a894-99653160de94/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Reeves VIP Therapy PLLC
Counselor, PhD, MS, CAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32212 (Online Only)
Autism and Behavior Analysis, Addictions, Anger Management, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Boundary Setting, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Forgiveness, Unresolved Grief, Parenting, Divorce & Separation, Blended Families, PTSD, Trauma.
I specialize in family therapy, helping clients and families on the autism spectrum, as well as with addiction and divorce. With a blend of therapeutic styles including client-centered, solution-focused, CBT, motivational interviewing, and DBT, I tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs. Check out my profile to see the other areas in which I can be of assistance with my 40 years of experience. I'm happy to chat with you to see if we are the right fit for each other and hope that you find the help that you need in maintaining your mental health. Take care, Dr. Reeves
Autism and Behavior Analysis, Addictions, Anger Management, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Boundary Setting, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Forgiveness, Unresolved Grief, Parenting, Divorce & Separation, Blended Families, PTSD, Trauma.
I specialize in family therapy, helping clients and families on the autism spectrum, as well as with addiction and divorce. With a blend of therapeutic styles including client-centered, solution-focused, CBT, motivational interviewing, and DBT, I tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs. Check out my profile to see the other areas in which I can be of assistance with my 40 years of experience. I'm happy to chat with you to see if we are the right fit for each other and hope that you find the help that you need in maintaining your mental health. Take care, Dr. Reeves
![Photo of Dr. Lisa-Mae S. Armbrust, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40107907-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Certifications: Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS); ADHD - Certified Clinical Service Provider; and Certified Child Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP).
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in psychoeducational testing and psychotherapy. My professional life has been spent working with children and families to overcome various obstacles to their personal or academic accomplishments. After graduating from Johns Hopkins University with my Bachelor of Arts degree, I received both my Masters and Doctorate in Psychology from New York University. I have worked with children, adolescents and families in various hospital, school and outpatient clinic settings.
Certifications: Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS); ADHD - Certified Clinical Service Provider; and Certified Child Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP).
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in psychoeducational testing and psychotherapy. My professional life has been spent working with children and families to overcome various obstacles to their personal or academic accomplishments. After graduating from Johns Hopkins University with my Bachelor of Arts degree, I received both my Masters and Doctorate in Psychology from New York University. I have worked with children, adolescents and families in various hospital, school and outpatient clinic settings.
![Photo of Dr. Anderson Jerome Schuyler, EdD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/612a07f9-1264-4003-8f0a-5a8f683dfdbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Anderson Jerome Schuyler
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32073
We offer ADHD, and comprehensive psychological testing for children, teens and adults as well as Autism testing for teens and adults.
If you find yourself or a loved one having issues with school and work, focusing or completing task, social interactions and understanding and don't know why, let us help! Ducky Behavioral Solutions, INC., now has openings for ADHD, Autism and comprehensive psychoeducational assessments. We are also now providing assessments for the Immigration processes including Asylum, VAWA, U-Visa cases and Hardship Waivers. As someone who help with the immigration process we know how stressful it can be and want to make it as easy as possible for you! Call us at 904-899-2160!
We offer ADHD, and comprehensive psychological testing for children, teens and adults as well as Autism testing for teens and adults.
If you find yourself or a loved one having issues with school and work, focusing or completing task, social interactions and understanding and don't know why, let us help! Ducky Behavioral Solutions, INC., now has openings for ADHD, Autism and comprehensive psychoeducational assessments. We are also now providing assessments for the Immigration processes including Asylum, VAWA, U-Visa cases and Hardship Waivers. As someone who help with the immigration process we know how stressful it can be and want to make it as easy as possible for you! Call us at 904-899-2160!
![Photo of Katherine Falwell, PhD , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9ada8fa-6e3e-40b5-a65f-2fdadb916836/3/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to improve the lives of the families with whom I work. I utilize a variety of techniques to improve functioning and strengthen both individual and family relations. Treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy, systems therapy, and solution-focused therapy are used to help my clients cope with a variety of challenges. I also enjoy working with adults experiencing life transitions such as career changes, relationship issues, or marital struggles.
My mission is to improve the lives of the families with whom I work. I utilize a variety of techniques to improve functioning and strengthen both individual and family relations. Treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy, systems therapy, and solution-focused therapy are used to help my clients cope with a variety of challenges. I also enjoy working with adults experiencing life transitions such as career changes, relationship issues, or marital struggles.
![Photo of Kimberly Marie Gydish-Theobald, MEd, LMHC, CAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7966b84b-6d39-427f-b0c5-d27b2cf2f278/3/320x400.jpeg)
It would be a privilege to assist you on your journey of self-discovery. I am an eclectic therapist which means your experience will be tailored to suit your specific needs. I utilize several therapeutic modalities including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Client-Centered and Solution Focused.
It would be a privilege to assist you on your journey of self-discovery. I am an eclectic therapist which means your experience will be tailored to suit your specific needs. I utilize several therapeutic modalities including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Client-Centered and Solution Focused.
![Photo of Daniel Williams Jr, Daniel , PsyD, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b58dc815-b970-4396-a507-c7922a88504c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Williams Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Daniel , PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Saint Johns, FL 32259 (Online Only)
F.O.C.U.S. online counseling’s mission is to empower individuals so that they will be able to endure and sustain the challenges in the world by discovering their own resources within themselves, giving them the ability to have a balanced life. The synchronization of the body, mind and spirit brings good health and enables people to live productive lives. Good health encompasses harmony, joy, love and peace in all realms of the body, mind and spirit.
F.O.C.U.S. online counseling’s mission is to empower individuals so that they will be able to endure and sustain the challenges in the world by discovering their own resources within themselves, giving them the ability to have a balanced life. The synchronization of the body, mind and spirit brings good health and enables people to live productive lives. Good health encompasses harmony, joy, love and peace in all realms of the body, mind and spirit.
![Photo of Natalie Ruge, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dcdbd46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Ruge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
Ready to make a change but not sure how to get started? Many of us are struggling with anxiety, sleep issues, feeling unmotivated and stuck. I will act as your guide in self discovery and encourage you to identify patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are holding you back. We will draw on your strengths and choose the direction you want to take in resolving personal, career and relationship challenges. We all want to be loved and valued in our relationships, but struggle at times with communication, intimacy, self esteem, or conflict. Disappointment and resentment build and our feelings about our partner change.
Ready to make a change but not sure how to get started? Many of us are struggling with anxiety, sleep issues, feeling unmotivated and stuck. I will act as your guide in self discovery and encourage you to identify patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are holding you back. We will draw on your strengths and choose the direction you want to take in resolving personal, career and relationship challenges. We all want to be loved and valued in our relationships, but struggle at times with communication, intimacy, self esteem, or conflict. Disappointment and resentment build and our feelings about our partner change.
![Photo of Dr. Brittany Cannon, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec41c0cb-efb1-4d83-a0d6-c93b780a9124/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with a range of difficulties including developmental delays, behavior concerns, social-emotional difficulties, and learning problems. My aim is to improve the lives of children and their families through evaluation, therapy, and family/school consultation.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with a range of difficulties including developmental delays, behavior concerns, social-emotional difficulties, and learning problems. My aim is to improve the lives of children and their families through evaluation, therapy, and family/school consultation.
See more therapy options for Fruit Cove
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.