Autism Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Ashely Martin, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashely Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32225
My expertise are anger management, anxiety, Asperger's disease, autism, LGBTQIA+ Gender affirming care, sexual abuse and behavioral issues.
My ideal client is someone who enters therapy with an open heart, ready to delve into their inner world and unpack their boxes. They come to each session as their true selves, even if they deem their thoughts and emotions complex or challenging. They embrace that therapy is a collaborative journey and are committed to putting in the effort for positive change. Through a blend of mindfulness, firm compassion, honesty, and a shared dedication to growth, we can cultivate an environment where healing and personal development occur organically.
My expertise are anger management, anxiety, Asperger's disease, autism, LGBTQIA+ Gender affirming care, sexual abuse and behavioral issues.
My ideal client is someone who enters therapy with an open heart, ready to delve into their inner world and unpack their boxes. They come to each session as their true selves, even if they deem their thoughts and emotions complex or challenging. They embrace that therapy is a collaborative journey and are committed to putting in the effort for positive change. Through a blend of mindfulness, firm compassion, honesty, and a shared dedication to growth, we can cultivate an environment where healing and personal development occur organically.
(904) 694-5976 View (904) 694-5976
Photo of Adrienne Leigh Desantis King - Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health, PhD, BCBA, Psychologist
Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
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!
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!
(904) 474-8416 View (904) 474-8416
Photo of Max Horovitz, PhD, Psychologist
Max Horovitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
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.
(904) 621-1576 View (904) 621-1576
Photo of Dr. Lisa Blum, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lisa Blum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Welcome to my psychological testing practice, offering comprehensive assessments for adults and children. I specialize in diagnosing and understanding ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, personality, dyslexia, and other learning difficulties.
Welcome to my psychological testing practice, offering comprehensive assessments for adults and children. I specialize in diagnosing and understanding ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, personality, dyslexia, and other learning difficulties.
(904) 801-5733 View (904) 801-5733
Photo of Aaron Percoco, RMHCI
Aaron Percoco
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32217
As a man with ADHD and autism, I understand the challenges of operating in a society that was not made for you and how hard it can be to make and maintain quality relationships in life.
This message is for kiddos and adults: Do you have trouble fitting in? Do you have difficulty finding your place in the world? Are you turned away by your peers because of your unique interests or personality? Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder, or do you suspect that you are neurodivergent? Do you want to build a community of peers who love and appreciate you? Is it exhausting for you to try new things? It's so hard to survive and thrive in a world that isn't made for you. Talk to someone who understands and validates your unique struggle and can help you navigate the challenges of a neurotypical world!
As a man with ADHD and autism, I understand the challenges of operating in a society that was not made for you and how hard it can be to make and maintain quality relationships in life.
This message is for kiddos and adults: Do you have trouble fitting in? Do you have difficulty finding your place in the world? Are you turned away by your peers because of your unique interests or personality? Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder, or do you suspect that you are neurodivergent? Do you want to build a community of peers who love and appreciate you? Is it exhausting for you to try new things? It's so hard to survive and thrive in a world that isn't made for you. Talk to someone who understands and validates your unique struggle and can help you navigate the challenges of a neurotypical world!
(904) 478-1618 View (904) 478-1618
Photo of Larry W Neidigh - Community Behavioral Services, PhD, Psychologist
Community Behavioral Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32204
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.
(904) 503-6308 View (904) 503-6308
Photo of Dr. Amaris A. Avellan, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Amaris A. Avellan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32208
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.
(904) 780-2259 View (904) 780-2259
Photo of Jill Driest, PhD, Psychologist
Jill Driest
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258
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.
(904) 512-0922 View (904) 512-0922
Photo of Tia Haywood-Battey, MEd, EdS
Tia Haywood-Battey
MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Hello! I'm Tia Battey, owner of Collaborative Efforts Youth and Family Services (CEYFS), providing expert psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. With a personalized evidenced based approach, I offer comprehensive services including, evaluations in the areas of Giftedness, Specific Learning Disorders (Dygraphia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia), Autism, College (ADA) Accommmodations, and college and career planning. My goal is to support clients in achieving their full potential through structured, nurturing, and knowledgeable care.
Hello! I'm Tia Battey, owner of Collaborative Efforts Youth and Family Services (CEYFS), providing expert psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. With a personalized evidenced based approach, I offer comprehensive services including, evaluations in the areas of Giftedness, Specific Learning Disorders (Dygraphia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia), Autism, College (ADA) Accommmodations, and college and career planning. My goal is to support clients in achieving their full potential through structured, nurturing, and knowledgeable care.
(407) 588-0130 View (407) 588-0130
Photo of Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Lomando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32202  (Online Only)
Autism is another focus Patricia has personal and professional ties to.
Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, provides neurodivergent affirming services for the child, adolescent, and adult. Depression and anxiety are passions focused on throughout her career. Using sandtray, expressive arts, Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, she explores mood and prevention patterns, collaborates on coping strategies and helps identify those sometimes elusive gifts that are part of every neurotype. With expansive certifications in Registered Play Therapy and Infant Mental Health, she works through methodologies that bridge family gaps and help “translate” the child’s language through play, art and sand tray work.
Autism is another focus Patricia has personal and professional ties to.
Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, provides neurodivergent affirming services for the child, adolescent, and adult. Depression and anxiety are passions focused on throughout her career. Using sandtray, expressive arts, Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, she explores mood and prevention patterns, collaborates on coping strategies and helps identify those sometimes elusive gifts that are part of every neurotype. With expansive certifications in Registered Play Therapy and Infant Mental Health, she works through methodologies that bridge family gaps and help “translate” the child’s language through play, art and sand tray work.
(305) 570-3547 View (305) 570-3547
Photo of David Martin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32099
Life can be challenging....these are unsettling times. It is difficult, to say the least, to manage family stress and connection. Are you struggling to manage your family relationships, with your spouse or domestic partner, children, and other family members? Are your children struggling in school and managing family and social life? Are there additional challenges? ADHD, Autism, or developmental disability?....Have you ever said to yourself, "why me?" or "I wish they would just stop. As a parent, have you ever asked, "what's going to happen to my kid?" Have you ever struggled with trauma or substance abuse, if so, I can help.
Life can be challenging....these are unsettling times. It is difficult, to say the least, to manage family stress and connection. Are you struggling to manage your family relationships, with your spouse or domestic partner, children, and other family members? Are your children struggling in school and managing family and social life? Are there additional challenges? ADHD, Autism, or developmental disability?....Have you ever said to yourself, "why me?" or "I wish they would just stop. As a parent, have you ever asked, "what's going to happen to my kid?" Have you ever struggled with trauma or substance abuse, if so, I can help.
(407) 634-2251 View (407) 634-2251
Photo of David Smith, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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.
(727) 496-7204 View (727) 496-7204
Photo of Christal L. Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christal L. Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32201  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients with developmental diagnoses such as Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, discouraged or uncertain of what to do? Unfortunately, that's part of the human experience some times. I take pleasure in helping individuals and parents navigate through difficult situations. However, you are the expert on yourself and your family! I will partner with you to offer insight, guidance and support as you discover the tools that will empower you to create the life of your choice. My counseling approach is to provide a fun, safe, warm, inviting, genuine, nonjudgmental zone to promote self-love, healing, growth and self-discovery.
I specialize in working with clients with developmental diagnoses such as Autism and ADHD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, discouraged or uncertain of what to do? Unfortunately, that's part of the human experience some times. I take pleasure in helping individuals and parents navigate through difficult situations. However, you are the expert on yourself and your family! I will partner with you to offer insight, guidance and support as you discover the tools that will empower you to create the life of your choice. My counseling approach is to provide a fun, safe, warm, inviting, genuine, nonjudgmental zone to promote self-love, healing, growth and self-discovery.
(404) 649-0212 View (404) 649-0212
Photo of Susana Barsky, PsyD, Psychologist
Susana Barsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32217
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am able to evaluate children of all ages as well as adolescents and adults. I am able to perform intellectual and academic testing, disability testing, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders and testing for gifted. I conduct evaluations for citizenship and Social Security Disability. I am also able to diagnose and test for Asperger's Syndrome and other disorders in the Autism Spectrum. I am a trained child psychologist from an accredited/approved American Psychological Association University and internship program.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am able to evaluate children of all ages as well as adolescents and adults. I am able to perform intellectual and academic testing, disability testing, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders and testing for gifted. I conduct evaluations for citizenship and Social Security Disability. I am also able to diagnose and test for Asperger's Syndrome and other disorders in the Autism Spectrum. I am a trained child psychologist from an accredited/approved American Psychological Association University and internship program.
(904) 342-6429 View (904) 342-6429
Photo of Dr. Danielle Sanchack, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle Sanchack
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Waitlist for new clients
She has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and personality disorders, as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Sanchack is a Navy trained clinical psychologist with over 18 years of licensure, described by her clients as "warm, easy to talk to, and very nice." Her passion for helping others live life to their fullest potential is balanced with understanding how difficult life can be when mental health struggles occur. In working with Dr. Sanchack you will find a partnership with someone who is engaged and cares about your life. Her sessions are tailored to your needs, and communication is easy, in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
She has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and personality disorders, as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Sanchack is a Navy trained clinical psychologist with over 18 years of licensure, described by her clients as "warm, easy to talk to, and very nice." Her passion for helping others live life to their fullest potential is balanced with understanding how difficult life can be when mental health struggles occur. In working with Dr. Sanchack you will find a partnership with someone who is engaged and cares about your life. Her sessions are tailored to your needs, and communication is easy, in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
(904) 560-7923 View (904) 560-7923
Photo of Dr. Lisa-Mae S. Armbrust, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Lisa-Mae S. Armbrust
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
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.
(904) 584-3486 View (904) 584-3486
Photo of Dr. Amy Hartley, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Amy Hartley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32217
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.
(904) 469-1982 View (904) 469-1982
Photo of Dr. Erica Janson, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Erica Janson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work with children, teens, and adults. I prefer to take a relational, client-centered approach to psychotherapy and strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative environment where my clients can be empowered to create positive change and to live better and more meaningful lives. I also come with years of experience working with families. In additional to my clinical work, I also provide forensic psychological assessments (immigration, personal injury, social investigations) and psychoeducational and educational testing for learning differences, autism, and ADHD.
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work with children, teens, and adults. I prefer to take a relational, client-centered approach to psychotherapy and strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative environment where my clients can be empowered to create positive change and to live better and more meaningful lives. I also come with years of experience working with families. In additional to my clinical work, I also provide forensic psychological assessments (immigration, personal injury, social investigations) and psychoeducational and educational testing for learning differences, autism, and ADHD.
(904) 454-5989 View (904) 454-5989
Photo of Abigail Levrini - Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee, PhD, Psychologist
Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
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.
(904) 342-1262 View (904) 342-1262
Photo of Shirley Amanda Saar-McPherson, PhD
Shirley Amanda Saar-McPherson
PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
My clients have a wide range of reasons for seeking a psychological evaluation. I am able to work in many expert areas and have over 20 years of clinical experience. Adult and child autism and ADHD assessments are offered. I also do forensic evaluations for guardianship, competency, court-ordered evaluations, etc. I also offer neuropsychological evaluations for many concerns such as dementia or TBI. I offer educational/academic evaluations for college students who need accommodations or persons who wish to document a disability and apply for disability.
My clients have a wide range of reasons for seeking a psychological evaluation. I am able to work in many expert areas and have over 20 years of clinical experience. Adult and child autism and ADHD assessments are offered. I also do forensic evaluations for guardianship, competency, court-ordered evaluations, etc. I also offer neuropsychological evaluations for many concerns such as dementia or TBI. I offer educational/academic evaluations for college students who need accommodations or persons who wish to document a disability and apply for disability.
(912) 513-8634 View (912) 513-8634

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.