Autism Therapists in Jupiter, FL

Photo of Nicole Yehudai, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Yehudai
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults. I have experience with a variety of presenting concerns including Autism Spectrum diagnoses, trauma, severe emotional disturbances, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, bullying, oppositional concerns and adjustment disorders. I believe establishing and maintaining a trusting therapeutic relationship is essential for growth. I take an approach that combines play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family systems and behavior management strategies to gauge a client's current functioning and utilize their strengths to help promote growth.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults. I have experience with a variety of presenting concerns including Autism Spectrum diagnoses, trauma, severe emotional disturbances, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, bullying, oppositional concerns and adjustment disorders. I believe establishing and maintaining a trusting therapeutic relationship is essential for growth. I take an approach that combines play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family systems and behavior management strategies to gauge a client's current functioning and utilize their strengths to help promote growth.
(561) 567-0277 View (561) 567-0277
Photo of Lauren Howard Ram, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Howard Ram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33477
I specialize in working with children and adults with ADD, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders, impulse control difficulties, autism spectrum disorders and various other developmental delays.
Deciding to reach out for therapy is one of the most courageous acts. As a client, you want someone who will understand your needs and assist you through this journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is there every step of the way to provide support and guidance for any traumas, anxieties or mental health concerns you have. I am available in person or through Telehealth, WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, Zoom or phone.
I specialize in working with children and adults with ADD, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders, impulse control difficulties, autism spectrum disorders and various other developmental delays.
Deciding to reach out for therapy is one of the most courageous acts. As a client, you want someone who will understand your needs and assist you through this journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is there every step of the way to provide support and guidance for any traumas, anxieties or mental health concerns you have. I am available in person or through Telehealth, WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, Zoom or phone.
(561) 448-6466 View (561) 448-6466
Photo of Cheryl Checkers, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CCATP, Counselor
Cheryl Checkers
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum and their families. I operate from a neurodiverse framework; my main goal is to help my clients thrive by living a life in harmony with their strengths, values, and goals. I believe my clients are expert in their own experience, and my mission is to assist them in discovering their strengths and to help them learn ways to effectively manage the challenges associated with being on the spectrum. My specialties include dual diagnosis of autism and a mental health condition, late diagnosis of autism, and adolescents and adults with a new diagnosis of autism.
I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum and their families. I operate from a neurodiverse framework; my main goal is to help my clients thrive by living a life in harmony with their strengths, values, and goals. I believe my clients are expert in their own experience, and my mission is to assist them in discovering their strengths and to help them learn ways to effectively manage the challenges associated with being on the spectrum. My specialties include dual diagnosis of autism and a mental health condition, late diagnosis of autism, and adolescents and adults with a new diagnosis of autism.
(561) 513-6159 View (561) 513-6159
Photo of Shari Pearson, PhD, Psychologist
Shari Pearson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
I have 11 years of experience specializing in therapy and evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults coping with ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism/Asperger's Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and behavioral issues. I enjoy working with clients in order to build self- esteem, develop skills, and improve relationships. My therapeutic techniques are eclectic, involving cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, play therapy, social skills development, and parent-training depending on the client's/family's needs. Another major focus of my practice involves psychological evaluations to assess for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, intellectual ability, kindergarten readiness, mood disorders, and neuropsychological issues.
I have 11 years of experience specializing in therapy and evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults coping with ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism/Asperger's Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and behavioral issues. I enjoy working with clients in order to build self- esteem, develop skills, and improve relationships. My therapeutic techniques are eclectic, involving cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, play therapy, social skills development, and parent-training depending on the client's/family's needs. Another major focus of my practice involves psychological evaluations to assess for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, intellectual ability, kindergarten readiness, mood disorders, and neuropsychological issues.
(561) 513-6155 View (561) 513-6155
Photo of Chelsea Giorgetti, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chelsea Giorgetti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
I am passionate about helping adolescents and their families who are facing challenges with life transitions, anxiety, depression, peer/school-related issues. With a specialty in autism spectrum disorder, I have experience working with individuals with ASD in both clinical private practice and school-based environments. Collaboratively we will develop healthy coping and problem-solving strategies, improve social and communication skills, and focus on strengths to enhance self-efficacy.
I am passionate about helping adolescents and their families who are facing challenges with life transitions, anxiety, depression, peer/school-related issues. With a specialty in autism spectrum disorder, I have experience working with individuals with ASD in both clinical private practice and school-based environments. Collaboratively we will develop healthy coping and problem-solving strategies, improve social and communication skills, and focus on strengths to enhance self-efficacy.
(561) 658-1597 View (561) 658-1597
Photo of Jim Forgan, PhD
Jim Forgan
PhD
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
I specialize in evaluating children for autism, dyslexia, reading problems, dyscalculia (math problems), dysgraphia (writing problems), ADHD/ ADD, processing problems, learning issues, and social-emotional disorders such as anxiety, depression, opposition, autism, etc.
I am a licensed school psychologist in Jupiter and Stuart, Florida and I specialize in school neuropsychology. I offer in person one-to-one testing for dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia (math), all processing problems, and ADD/ADHD testing. My associates test for autism using the ADOS-2. Our goal is to help you help your child. I specialize in ages 2-25.We offer SAT, ACT, LSAT, and MCAT testing. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology and a Barton certified dyslexia testing specialist. I use a strength based approach to identifying strengths and needs and pinpoint the best treatment for helping your child.
I specialize in evaluating children for autism, dyslexia, reading problems, dyscalculia (math problems), dysgraphia (writing problems), ADHD/ ADD, processing problems, learning issues, and social-emotional disorders such as anxiety, depression, opposition, autism, etc.
I am a licensed school psychologist in Jupiter and Stuart, Florida and I specialize in school neuropsychology. I offer in person one-to-one testing for dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia (math), all processing problems, and ADD/ADHD testing. My associates test for autism using the ADOS-2. Our goal is to help you help your child. I specialize in ages 2-25.We offer SAT, ACT, LSAT, and MCAT testing. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology and a Barton certified dyslexia testing specialist. I use a strength based approach to identifying strengths and needs and pinpoint the best treatment for helping your child.
(561) 530-2350 View (561) 530-2350
Photo of Kimberly Sebastiana Mallia, PsyS, NCSP
Kimberly Sebastiana Mallia
PsyS, NCSP
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
Kimberly evaluates students for all Exceptional Education Programs, including, but not limited to, Gifted, Specific Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disability, and Emotional Behavioral Disability.
Kimberly Mallia is a School Psychologist, College Professor, and Private Practitioner. BA Human Development, Master's Psychology, and Specialist degree in School Psychology. Kimberly is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist. She is also a professor at the University of Phoenix. She has experience as a sixth grade Science teacher. Kimberly is an educational specialist in the areas of Response to Intervention, which is a multi-tier approach: the early identification and support of students with learning and behavioral needs. Ms. Mallia assesses learning style, personal strengths, and personal weaknesses. Kimberly provides counseling within a Behavioral-Cognitive and Positive Psychology structure.
Kimberly evaluates students for all Exceptional Education Programs, including, but not limited to, Gifted, Specific Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disability, and Emotional Behavioral Disability.
Kimberly Mallia is a School Psychologist, College Professor, and Private Practitioner. BA Human Development, Master's Psychology, and Specialist degree in School Psychology. Kimberly is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist. She is also a professor at the University of Phoenix. She has experience as a sixth grade Science teacher. Kimberly is an educational specialist in the areas of Response to Intervention, which is a multi-tier approach: the early identification and support of students with learning and behavioral needs. Ms. Mallia assesses learning style, personal strengths, and personal weaknesses. Kimberly provides counseling within a Behavioral-Cognitive and Positive Psychology structure.
(561) 701-8020 View (561) 701-8020
Photo of Cyndi Slater, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cyndi Slater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33477
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and feasible solutions exist. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with children, teens and adults who wrestle with issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, major life adjustments, and other conditions, I understand how these challenges can affect the entire family. I am a genuine, caring, and compassionate person; my work is about building trusting relationships so that everyone feels connected, heard, and valued.
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and feasible solutions exist. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with children, teens and adults who wrestle with issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, major life adjustments, and other conditions, I understand how these challenges can affect the entire family. I am a genuine, caring, and compassionate person; my work is about building trusting relationships so that everyone feels connected, heard, and valued.
(561) 821-2887 View (561) 821-2887
Photo of Kelly Everson, PsyD, Psychologist
Kelly Everson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jupiter, FL 33458
I have worked extensively with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, specifically Asperger's Disorder, and with children and adolescents struggling with cognitive, mood and behavioral concerns.
I have over 15 years of experience in working with children, adolescents and families in the Chicago, Illinois and Palm Beach, Florida area. I have worked in schools, hospitals and residential treatment settings. I am leading groups for adolescents and see children and adolescents individually and with their families. I work from a family perspective and believe that children and adolescents live, work and play in a larger system that must often be involved in treatment.
I have worked extensively with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, specifically Asperger's Disorder, and with children and adolescents struggling with cognitive, mood and behavioral concerns.
I have over 15 years of experience in working with children, adolescents and families in the Chicago, Illinois and Palm Beach, Florida area. I have worked in schools, hospitals and residential treatment settings. I am leading groups for adolescents and see children and adolescents individually and with their families. I work from a family perspective and believe that children and adolescents live, work and play in a larger system that must often be involved in treatment.
(561) 536-3041 View (561) 536-3041
Photo of Jennifer Smyth, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Smyth
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
This has allowed me to work closely with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, helping them navigate the unique challenges they face.
As a licensed mental health counselor with over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive expertise in a wide range of areas, including ASD, trauma, anxiety, depression, family relationships, and working with adolescents and adults.
This has allowed me to work closely with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, helping them navigate the unique challenges they face.
As a licensed mental health counselor with over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive expertise in a wide range of areas, including ASD, trauma, anxiety, depression, family relationships, and working with adolescents and adults.
(561) 468-5193 View (561) 468-5193
Photo of Jen Aleixo, RMHCI, RBT, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jen Aleixo
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, RBT, MS
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33469
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing! I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can freely explore their emotions, beliefs, and experiences without judgment. I specialize in crafting personalized solutions for clients facing life transitions, relationship dynamics, self-worth struggles, and behavior modification. Additionally, I provide support and guidance to both children and women navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is my passion to empower women and children to harness their inner strengths and resources on their personal journey.
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing! I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can freely explore their emotions, beliefs, and experiences without judgment. I specialize in crafting personalized solutions for clients facing life transitions, relationship dynamics, self-worth struggles, and behavior modification. Additionally, I provide support and guidance to both children and women navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is my passion to empower women and children to harness their inner strengths and resources on their personal journey.
(772) 404-3829 View (772) 404-3829
Photo of Richard Griff, PsyD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Richard Griff
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33477
ADHD Evaluation, Bariatric Evaluation, Autism Testing, Emotional Support Letters.
Dr. Griff is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with a specialization: Trauma Psychology, Anger and Impulse Control Disorders, Child Psychology, Sports/Performance Psychology, and Health Psychology. He also offers executive coaching services and services individuals with both chronic physical illnesses. Furthermore, Dr. Griff can provide psychological services to first responders, law enforcement, and military. He has experienced in providing a multitude of services as he was trained by the United Nations and has worked with the US military and professional athletes.
ADHD Evaluation, Bariatric Evaluation, Autism Testing, Emotional Support Letters.
Dr. Griff is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with a specialization: Trauma Psychology, Anger and Impulse Control Disorders, Child Psychology, Sports/Performance Psychology, and Health Psychology. He also offers executive coaching services and services individuals with both chronic physical illnesses. Furthermore, Dr. Griff can provide psychological services to first responders, law enforcement, and military. He has experienced in providing a multitude of services as he was trained by the United Nations and has worked with the US military and professional athletes.
(305) 396-3201 View (305) 396-3201
Photo of Guerline Seraphin - Rose Serenity Wellness Center Inc., PhD, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Rose Serenity Wellness Center Inc.
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33477
Every day, you and your partner seem to drift further apart. It’s happened so slowly that you barely even realized it. Unspoken frustrations became lingering resentments that gradually destabilized the entire foundation of your relationship. After years of disloyalty, you can no longer trust each other. When you try to talk about how you’re feeling, it feels like your words go unheard, echoing in an empty chamber. Every attempt at finding some solution has come up short, and your interventions feel as useless as placing a Band-Aid on a broken limb. You know that something needs to change, but you’re out of ideas. It feels hopeless.
Every day, you and your partner seem to drift further apart. It’s happened so slowly that you barely even realized it. Unspoken frustrations became lingering resentments that gradually destabilized the entire foundation of your relationship. After years of disloyalty, you can no longer trust each other. When you try to talk about how you’re feeling, it feels like your words go unheard, echoing in an empty chamber. Every attempt at finding some solution has come up short, and your interventions feel as useless as placing a Band-Aid on a broken limb. You know that something needs to change, but you’re out of ideas. It feels hopeless.
(786) 581-8486 View (786) 581-8486
Photo of Lisa Smalheiser, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Smalheiser
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jupiter, FL 33458
"Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started. What you do today matters, because you are trading a day of your life for it." I'm here to help you through this next part of your journey. My name is Dr. Smalheiser, and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in South Florida. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years, and love what I do. Day in and day out, I see people making positive changes in their lives, working collaboratively with me in order to better themselves in whatever way that means for each person.
"Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started. What you do today matters, because you are trading a day of your life for it." I'm here to help you through this next part of your journey. My name is Dr. Smalheiser, and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in South Florida. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years, and love what I do. Day in and day out, I see people making positive changes in their lives, working collaboratively with me in order to better themselves in whatever way that means for each person.
(561) 250-7585 View (561) 250-7585
Photo of Cathy Colet - Forensic and Clinical PsychExperts, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Forensic and Clinical PsychExperts, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
At Forensic & Clinical Psychexperts, we believe in the power of psychology to transform lives. Our experienced team combines expertise in clinical and forensic psychology to offer a comprehensive range of clinical forensic psychology services tailored to your unique needs. We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore, heal, and grow. You can find more about our services at fcpsychexperts.com
At Forensic & Clinical Psychexperts, we believe in the power of psychology to transform lives. Our experienced team combines expertise in clinical and forensic psychology to offer a comprehensive range of clinical forensic psychology services tailored to your unique needs. We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore, heal, and grow. You can find more about our services at fcpsychexperts.com
(561) 944-3786 View (561) 944-3786
Photo of Nicole Bagge - Nicole Bagge MA, LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Bagge MA, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
I specialize in assisting children and adolescents facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, trauma, behavioral issues, academic struggles, and family conflict. Additionally, I provide support to young adults navigating the transition to adulthood, including relationship issues, and career concerns. Understanding the intricate dynamics within families and how they impact the development and well-being of children and adolescents is essential to progress. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while fostering communication and connection.
I specialize in assisting children and adolescents facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, trauma, behavioral issues, academic struggles, and family conflict. Additionally, I provide support to young adults navigating the transition to adulthood, including relationship issues, and career concerns. Understanding the intricate dynamics within families and how they impact the development and well-being of children and adolescents is essential to progress. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while fostering communication and connection.
(561) 821-3878 View (561) 821-3878
Photo of Kim Rivieccio, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Kim Rivieccio
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
My compassion and empathy help me to form trusting relationships with individuals and families. I serve as facilitator to help you find the answers that already exist within you. Through the connected and trusted relationship, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, needs and goals. While we might not be able to resolve all problems, you will know that you have someone to support you during painful life experiences. My theoretical approach is client-centered and I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy strategies. Many times this includes building new skills based on your needs.
My compassion and empathy help me to form trusting relationships with individuals and families. I serve as facilitator to help you find the answers that already exist within you. Through the connected and trusted relationship, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, needs and goals. While we might not be able to resolve all problems, you will know that you have someone to support you during painful life experiences. My theoretical approach is client-centered and I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy strategies. Many times this includes building new skills based on your needs.
(561) 220-6356 View (561) 220-6356
Photo of Emily Velez, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Velez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jupiter, FL 33458
As a parent, you want to make sure that your child or teenager is able to cope with different life events in healthy ways. You have worked really hard on instilling strong core values and beliefs in your child or teenager but it just hasn't seemed to make the changes or provided them with the information you had hoped. I'm here to tell you that you aren't alone in this journey. Learning to connect and communicate with your child or teenager is the first step and through the guidance and support of a therapist such as myself, your whole family will have the opportunity to make positive changes.
As a parent, you want to make sure that your child or teenager is able to cope with different life events in healthy ways. You have worked really hard on instilling strong core values and beliefs in your child or teenager but it just hasn't seemed to make the changes or provided them with the information you had hoped. I'm here to tell you that you aren't alone in this journey. Learning to connect and communicate with your child or teenager is the first step and through the guidance and support of a therapist such as myself, your whole family will have the opportunity to make positive changes.
(561) 781-7021 View (561) 781-7021
Photo of Lauren Miller, PsyD, JD, Psychologist
Lauren Miller
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
I specialize in neuropsychological and psychological assessment of a broad range of cognitive and emotional conditions including problems with attention, concentration, memory, learning, anxiety, mood, and other issues that can affect your daily life. My comprehensive approach to evaluation is designed to identify the unique factors contributing to your difficulties and make targeted recommendations to improve your functioning. The assessment process itself can be therapeutic and provide an opportunity for you to learn more about your strengths, weaknesses, and other aspects of yourself that you may question.
I specialize in neuropsychological and psychological assessment of a broad range of cognitive and emotional conditions including problems with attention, concentration, memory, learning, anxiety, mood, and other issues that can affect your daily life. My comprehensive approach to evaluation is designed to identify the unique factors contributing to your difficulties and make targeted recommendations to improve your functioning. The assessment process itself can be therapeutic and provide an opportunity for you to learn more about your strengths, weaknesses, and other aspects of yourself that you may question.
(561) 269-3393 View (561) 269-3393
Photo of Celia R Cirello, RLMHC
Celia R Cirello
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RLMHC
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33469
I’m a Registered Mental Health Counselor. I utilize a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit to support health and healing. My belief is that as humans we open up wherever we feel most safe & most comfortable. Everyone has a different view of what that looks & feels like. That’s why I offer a variety of different environments for sessions; the play therapy room for children, the office for talk therapy, the group room for group counseling & learning, and beach walks or other community settings for adventure therapy. My philosophy is that we're never too old to heal or to laugh. We are all powerful creators!
I’m a Registered Mental Health Counselor. I utilize a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit to support health and healing. My belief is that as humans we open up wherever we feel most safe & most comfortable. Everyone has a different view of what that looks & feels like. That’s why I offer a variety of different environments for sessions; the play therapy room for children, the office for talk therapy, the group room for group counseling & learning, and beach walks or other community settings for adventure therapy. My philosophy is that we're never too old to heal or to laugh. We are all powerful creators!
(561) 264-0611 View (561) 264-0611
1
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.