Autism Therapists in New Port Richey, FL

Photo of Jessica L Dorey - Alliance Behavioral Health and Development , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alliance Behavioral Health and Development
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34652
I'm Jessica Dorey, LCSW, and President of Alliance Behavioral Health and Development. I'm passionate about helping children, teens, and young adults navigate their mental health challenges. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, autism, trauma, and more! I also have experience working with the school system advocating for IEPs and 504 plans for children with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges. If your goal is to be your best self, or help your children achieve their full potential I'm here to help!
I'm Jessica Dorey, LCSW, and President of Alliance Behavioral Health and Development. I'm passionate about helping children, teens, and young adults navigate their mental health challenges. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, autism, trauma, and more! I also have experience working with the school system advocating for IEPs and 504 plans for children with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges. If your goal is to be your best self, or help your children achieve their full potential I'm here to help!
(727) 607-4871 View (727) 607-4871
Photo of Emanuel Diaz, LMHC, ADC-C, Counselor
Emanuel Diaz
Counselor, LMHC, ADC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34653
*I am currently accepting new clients*. Thank you for reaching out! I have several years of experience working with children and adults with a variety of issues and disorders. I have experience with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Trauma. I enjoy working with both adults and children and will work with you to tailor a treatment approach that will help you feel your best. I have a welcoming and strength-based approach that will help you or your child to feel at ease.
*I am currently accepting new clients*. Thank you for reaching out! I have several years of experience working with children and adults with a variety of issues and disorders. I have experience with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Trauma. I enjoy working with both adults and children and will work with you to tailor a treatment approach that will help you feel your best. I have a welcoming and strength-based approach that will help you or your child to feel at ease.
(727) 756-8337 View (727) 756-8337
Photo of Dina Hargrave - Ellie Mental Health and Growth and Acceptance LLC, MS, EdS, CMHC, Counselor
Ellie Mental Health and Growth and Acceptance LLC
Counselor, MS, EdS, CMHC
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34655
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to individual (child and adult) and family counseling, I also provide Psycho-educational testing for Autism, Early-onset Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disabilities and more.
I have worked with children with significant behavioral concerns and their families for over 10 years. As a mother of children with significant behavioral concerns, I know how hard it can be to live with the judgment of others about your parenting and the internal struggle to help your child navigate their world successfully. I can help you find the right approach that doesn't take up all of your time and energy to implement. I specialize in working with parents to decrease problem behaviors and increase more prosocial ones. I will also work with your child to build skills in coping with frustration and the word "no".
In addition to individual (child and adult) and family counseling, I also provide Psycho-educational testing for Autism, Early-onset Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disabilities and more.
I have worked with children with significant behavioral concerns and their families for over 10 years. As a mother of children with significant behavioral concerns, I know how hard it can be to live with the judgment of others about your parenting and the internal struggle to help your child navigate their world successfully. I can help you find the right approach that doesn't take up all of your time and energy to implement. I specialize in working with parents to decrease problem behaviors and increase more prosocial ones. I will also work with your child to build skills in coping with frustration and the word "no".
(385) 219-4989 View (385) 219-4989
Photo of Richard L Fincke - Urgent Care Counseling LLC & Trinity Neurofeedback, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Urgent Care Counseling LLC & Trinity Neurofeedback
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34653
Over the past decade I have researched and learned how to help my clients with difficult to treat conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression with suicidal thoughts, as well as adults and youth diagnosed with ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have been working with individuals and families for over 32 years. Over the span of my career, I have worked as a Bi-vocational professional as a Pastor and as a Counselor in the community. I have worked with many populations: Severe and Persistent Mentally Ill, Homeless, At Risk Youth, Adolescents, Foster Care Families, Abused Children, School Age Children, Fatherhood, Parenting, Marriages in trouble, Divorce, and couples. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and specialize in working with survivors of traumatic experiences, PTSD, Bipolar / Mood Disorders, and RAD.
Over the past decade I have researched and learned how to help my clients with difficult to treat conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression with suicidal thoughts, as well as adults and youth diagnosed with ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have been working with individuals and families for over 32 years. Over the span of my career, I have worked as a Bi-vocational professional as a Pastor and as a Counselor in the community. I have worked with many populations: Severe and Persistent Mentally Ill, Homeless, At Risk Youth, Adolescents, Foster Care Families, Abused Children, School Age Children, Fatherhood, Parenting, Marriages in trouble, Divorce, and couples. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and specialize in working with survivors of traumatic experiences, PTSD, Bipolar / Mood Disorders, and RAD.
(727) 314-7649 View (727) 314-7649
Photo of Sharon Picard, PhD, Psychologist
Sharon Picard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34655
Although it's true that children are resilient, there are times when children and their families need focused support and therapy in order to move forward and reach emotional health and balance. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Registered Play Therapist who uses cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, animal-assisted therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness techniques to help clients achieve better mental health. Having been licensed for sixteen years, I have worked extensively with children who present with anxiety, depression, a history of trauma including post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism, grief issues, and behavioral concerns.
Although it's true that children are resilient, there are times when children and their families need focused support and therapy in order to move forward and reach emotional health and balance. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Registered Play Therapist who uses cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, animal-assisted therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness techniques to help clients achieve better mental health. Having been licensed for sixteen years, I have worked extensively with children who present with anxiety, depression, a history of trauma including post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism, grief issues, and behavioral concerns.
(808) 346-8101 View (808) 346-8101
Photo of Cassandra Gadouas - Cassandra's Counseling, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Cassandra's Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34652
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have worked with individuals, couples (Gottman Method), families, and groups. I have helped people work through issues related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress related issues and relationship problems. My goal is to help empower people to work through difficult times and often provide some new skills to cope when life gets rocky. I will listen to you and learn about you and then provide feedback to help you feel better.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have worked with individuals, couples (Gottman Method), families, and groups. I have helped people work through issues related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress related issues and relationship problems. My goal is to help empower people to work through difficult times and often provide some new skills to cope when life gets rocky. I will listen to you and learn about you and then provide feedback to help you feel better.
(727) 317-6445 View (727) 317-6445
Photo of Ashlie Cleaver, MS, RMHCI
Ashlie Cleaver
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34653
As a therapist my main goal is to help my clients feel confident in their abilities to manage their mental health stressors. I am able to assist with career planning, stress/anxiety and depression management. I typically work with children, adolescents, and adults. Marriage and family counseling are also services I provide for those who may be experiencing hardships or just need a safe space to talk. I take the time to get to know and understand my clients and their individual needs to help them be the best they can be.
As a therapist my main goal is to help my clients feel confident in their abilities to manage their mental health stressors. I am able to assist with career planning, stress/anxiety and depression management. I typically work with children, adolescents, and adults. Marriage and family counseling are also services I provide for those who may be experiencing hardships or just need a safe space to talk. I take the time to get to know and understand my clients and their individual needs to help them be the best they can be.
(727) 610-7979 View (727) 610-7979
Photo of Andrew Pisko - The Child and Family Institute, MA, LMHC, ART , ITDS, CLTP, Counselor
The Child and Family Institute
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ART , ITDS, CLTP
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34655
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have been working in the counseling field for over 7 years and have been working with children and Adults since 2003 . I have Devoted my career to ongoing training and learning new and progressive techniques that work. I have expertise in children and teens but work with Adults as well. I have excellent references available. My expertise includes Trauma and Depression, Anxiety and PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with the Adult community I offer Telehealth as well as in person office visits. I offer a free initial consultation to see if we are a good fit
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have been working in the counseling field for over 7 years and have been working with children and Adults since 2003 . I have Devoted my career to ongoing training and learning new and progressive techniques that work. I have expertise in children and teens but work with Adults as well. I have excellent references available. My expertise includes Trauma and Depression, Anxiety and PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with the Adult community I offer Telehealth as well as in person office visits. I offer a free initial consultation to see if we are a good fit
(813) 213-0849 View (813) 213-0849
Photo of Danielle Robertson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34652
Dark thunderstorms are hard to see out of. Especially, when you feel you are alone or worse is feeling lost. When finding your way back to you, adversity does not have to be limiting; it is a resource. Being ready for something different or for things to change is very scary. Except look at all the pain you have already been through. That alone has prepared you for what is next. It is humble to ask for help and although this can feel uneasy just know that you are stretching yourself and that is what gets you results. This work to me is sacred, and if ready then I am grateful to be HEAR for you.
Dark thunderstorms are hard to see out of. Especially, when you feel you are alone or worse is feeling lost. When finding your way back to you, adversity does not have to be limiting; it is a resource. Being ready for something different or for things to change is very scary. Except look at all the pain you have already been through. That alone has prepared you for what is next. It is humble to ask for help and although this can feel uneasy just know that you are stretching yourself and that is what gets you results. This work to me is sacred, and if ready then I am grateful to be HEAR for you.
(727) 205-3637 View (727) 205-3637
Photo of Dr. S. Abraham Varghese - Central West Behavioral Health, PhD, MSW, LCSW, CAP
Central West Behavioral Health
PhD, MSW, LCSW, CAP
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34652
Central West Behavioral Health LLC, Spring Hill, Florida, is a mental health counseling and psychotherapy center that provides counseling services. The primary objective of this organization is to provide mental health counseling services to the Spring Hill area and Hernando County residents. The mission of this organization is to provide evidence-based therapeutic counseling services to clients, both affordable and to help them to attain their potential and best outcome. We offer a wide range of counseling services to help our clients establish their goals, achieve them, and feel well for them. In addition, we provide compassionate and excellent care for all our clients based on a holistic approach and truly based on their needs and expectations.
Central West Behavioral Health LLC, Spring Hill, Florida, is a mental health counseling and psychotherapy center that provides counseling services. The primary objective of this organization is to provide mental health counseling services to the Spring Hill area and Hernando County residents. The mission of this organization is to provide evidence-based therapeutic counseling services to clients, both affordable and to help them to attain their potential and best outcome. We offer a wide range of counseling services to help our clients establish their goals, achieve them, and feel well for them. In addition, we provide compassionate and excellent care for all our clients based on a holistic approach and truly based on their needs and expectations.
(352) 706-8722 View (352) 706-8722
Photo of Kalah Barlow, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kalah Barlow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Port Richey, FL 34652
Kalah's approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of the complexities that individuals and families face in today’s world. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human services from Southern New Hampshire University, and a Masters of Social Work from the University of South Florida. Kalah is Trauma informed and ACT (adoption competency training) certified and has experience in working with individuals and families that have been exposed to trauma.
Kalah's approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of the complexities that individuals and families face in today’s world. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human services from Southern New Hampshire University, and a Masters of Social Work from the University of South Florida. Kalah is Trauma informed and ACT (adoption competency training) certified and has experience in working with individuals and families that have been exposed to trauma.
(727) 605-5476 View (727) 605-5476
Photo of Amy Miklus, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Miklus
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34653  (Online Only)
“Let's walk together through the process to heal, piece by peace.” I work with children, adults and families who may be suffering from significant life stressors and/or severe traumas. I have a passion for change. I aid in helping advocate for my clients in the face of adversity. My passion, as a therapist, is assisting in transforming results through the power of healing in relationships. I am grounded in the principles of trauma-informed care. I utilize comprehensive assessments to have a clearer understanding of diagnostic complexities to implement the most effective interventions.
“Let's walk together through the process to heal, piece by peace.” I work with children, adults and families who may be suffering from significant life stressors and/or severe traumas. I have a passion for change. I aid in helping advocate for my clients in the face of adversity. My passion, as a therapist, is assisting in transforming results through the power of healing in relationships. I am grounded in the principles of trauma-informed care. I utilize comprehensive assessments to have a clearer understanding of diagnostic complexities to implement the most effective interventions.
(352) 437-1402 View (352) 437-1402

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Annette L Becklund - Annette L Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Assoc LLC, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette L Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Assoc LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655
Hello, I look forward to working with you, no matter what you are going through. I specialize in Autism & Asperger's & Unique Ways of Being. I hold an EMDR level 2 certificate, a certification in Heart Centered Hypnotherapy; I am a licensed Trim Life provider and I am trained in sand play. If you are ready to do the work and prefer deep, meaningful discoveries within yourself, then feel free to call today and set up an appointment. I work with very young children through to age 99. Autism evaluations for teens through Adults. Familiar with NPEs MPEs (Not Parent Expected/Misattributed Parentage) from DNA testing, etc.
Hello, I look forward to working with you, no matter what you are going through. I specialize in Autism & Asperger's & Unique Ways of Being. I hold an EMDR level 2 certificate, a certification in Heart Centered Hypnotherapy; I am a licensed Trim Life provider and I am trained in sand play. If you are ready to do the work and prefer deep, meaningful discoveries within yourself, then feel free to call today and set up an appointment. I work with very young children through to age 99. Autism evaluations for teens through Adults. Familiar with NPEs MPEs (Not Parent Expected/Misattributed Parentage) from DNA testing, etc.
(727) 201-0639 View (727) 201-0639
Photo of Nasrin Erfanian, PhD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Nasrin Erfanian
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655
including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, grief and loss, women’s issues through the developmental stages, child/youth management strategies and developmental disabilities, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder (high functioning, teens, and young adults), Social Skills education and Executive Functioning and Planning Skills.
I am a Florida licensed psychologist and a board-certified behavior analyst. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 1995, completed my residency at University of Mississippi Medical Center with special focus in Pediatric Psychology, Women’s Health, and medical issues impacting psychological states and vice versa. My academic training has had a special focus in behavioral and cognitive behavioral methods of evaluation and interventions. Also, I recently trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and basic EMDR therapy to address trauma with adults and youths. I have over 25 years of experience serving a wide range o issues
including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, grief and loss, women’s issues through the developmental stages, child/youth management strategies and developmental disabilities, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder (high functioning, teens, and young adults), Social Skills education and Executive Functioning and Planning Skills.
I am a Florida licensed psychologist and a board-certified behavior analyst. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 1995, completed my residency at University of Mississippi Medical Center with special focus in Pediatric Psychology, Women’s Health, and medical issues impacting psychological states and vice versa. My academic training has had a special focus in behavioral and cognitive behavioral methods of evaluation and interventions. Also, I recently trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and basic EMDR therapy to address trauma with adults and youths. I have over 25 years of experience serving a wide range o issues
(813) 686-6675 View (813) 686-6675
Photo of Michael Keith Mueller, MA, RMHCI
Michael Keith Mueller
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655  (Online Only)
I have experience working with teens and young adults from all walks of life but specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, especially members of the transgender community. I have worked with individuals with anxiety and mood disorders, issues related to identity development, PTSD/trauma, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, and life transitions and adjustment concerns. I continue to provide Gender Affirming Care Letters of Support, despite many legal attacks on the transgender community here in Florida. I believe that everyone is valid in their gender identity, and no law can change the veracity of that.
I have experience working with teens and young adults from all walks of life but specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, especially members of the transgender community. I have worked with individuals with anxiety and mood disorders, issues related to identity development, PTSD/trauma, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, and life transitions and adjustment concerns. I continue to provide Gender Affirming Care Letters of Support, despite many legal attacks on the transgender community here in Florida. I believe that everyone is valid in their gender identity, and no law can change the veracity of that.
(727) 205-4608 View (727) 205-4608
Photo of Anna Hahn Weaver, PhD, LMHC, MT-BC, CDWF, Counselor
Anna Hahn Weaver
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MT-BC, CDWF
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655  (Online Only)
Are you seeking compassionate and empowering help to maintain your overall mental wellness? How can I help? My approach is multi-faceted. I am a Traditional Psychotherapist & Board-Certified Music Therapist. Counseling sessions are tailored to meet the exact needs of my clients using approaches that are most comfortable for them. Specialties include anxiety, trauma, grief, wellness & COVID AfterCare. I provide a 'comfort zone' that enhances your life's natural balance and rhythm through Traditional or Eclectic Models of Psychotherapy, Music Therapy, Creative Arts, and Certified Facilitation of Dr. Brené Brown's research & books.
Are you seeking compassionate and empowering help to maintain your overall mental wellness? How can I help? My approach is multi-faceted. I am a Traditional Psychotherapist & Board-Certified Music Therapist. Counseling sessions are tailored to meet the exact needs of my clients using approaches that are most comfortable for them. Specialties include anxiety, trauma, grief, wellness & COVID AfterCare. I provide a 'comfort zone' that enhances your life's natural balance and rhythm through Traditional or Eclectic Models of Psychotherapy, Music Therapy, Creative Arts, and Certified Facilitation of Dr. Brené Brown's research & books.
(727) 328-4738 View (727) 328-4738
Photo of Sandra Rocafort, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sandra Rocafort
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Richey, FL 34673
Sandra is a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida and a Master’s of Education in Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from the University of Louisville.In addition to her extensive counseling experience, Sandra is a Certified School Counselor who has worked in Pinellas and Pasco County Schools, providing her with a profound understanding of the socioemotional dynamics and challenges within the educational environment.
Sandra is a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida and a Master’s of Education in Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from the University of Louisville.In addition to her extensive counseling experience, Sandra is a Certified School Counselor who has worked in Pinellas and Pasco County Schools, providing her with a profound understanding of the socioemotional dynamics and challenges within the educational environment.
(727) 273-7461 View (727) 273-7461
Photo of Donna Ford, MS, PMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Donna Ford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PMHC
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655
My ideal client would be one who I can successfully assist in maneuvering through the overwhelming, sometimes daunting details of life. These could include interpersonal and peer relationship issues, stresses related to the pandemic, employment issues, financial issues, grief and loss, emotional intelligent deficits and behavior problems. My clients are looking for helpful solutions that they are willing to embrace and incorporate into their lives, creating a more peaceful more productive, purpose driven life.
My ideal client would be one who I can successfully assist in maneuvering through the overwhelming, sometimes daunting details of life. These could include interpersonal and peer relationship issues, stresses related to the pandemic, employment issues, financial issues, grief and loss, emotional intelligent deficits and behavior problems. My clients are looking for helpful solutions that they are willing to embrace and incorporate into their lives, creating a more peaceful more productive, purpose driven life.
(813) 491-1865 View (813) 491-1865
Photo of Morgan Sordo, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Morgan Sordo
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655
Congratulations on taking the first step towards prioritizing your mental health and wellbeing. Finding the right provider is paramount to your therapeutic success. In any professional relationship, it is crucial to find "your person". Think about your hair stylist or barber, you wouldn't go to just anyone; the same idea applies for your mental health providers. I feel honored to be a part of the healing process that comes along with helping my clients reach their full potential. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to dive deep into self-discovery with my guidance.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards prioritizing your mental health and wellbeing. Finding the right provider is paramount to your therapeutic success. In any professional relationship, it is crucial to find "your person". Think about your hair stylist or barber, you wouldn't go to just anyone; the same idea applies for your mental health providers. I feel honored to be a part of the healing process that comes along with helping my clients reach their full potential. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to dive deep into self-discovery with my guidance.
(727) 855-7403 View (727) 855-7403
Photo of Krysten Hafner, MS, RCMHCI
Krysten Hafner
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RCMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Trinity, FL 34655
Are you looking for better ways to connect to others and yourself? I work with clients of all ages to explore ways to deepen their understanding of themselves and what they need. I support clients in determining what it is that they want by providing a safe and secure environment where they can process difficult and uncomfortable emotions. Clients are able to make peace with the past, learn to embrace and live in the present, and define what it is they want their future to look like. I take a neurodiversity affirming, compassionate and open-minded approach to collaborating with my clients to define their own goals.
Are you looking for better ways to connect to others and yourself? I work with clients of all ages to explore ways to deepen their understanding of themselves and what they need. I support clients in determining what it is that they want by providing a safe and secure environment where they can process difficult and uncomfortable emotions. Clients are able to make peace with the past, learn to embrace and live in the present, and define what it is they want their future to look like. I take a neurodiversity affirming, compassionate and open-minded approach to collaborating with my clients to define their own goals.
(727) 761-4708 View (727) 761-4708

See more therapy options for New Port Richey

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.