Autism Therapists in Parkland, FL
![Photo of Dr. Samantha Marks, BMEd, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/525741f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a 100% online practice, and I especially enjoy working with young adult clients who are in transition—into college or adulthood—and are motivated to learn techniques to grow and evolve. I especially love helping teens and young adults w/ High Functioning Autism, ADHD, LD, or Social Anxiety navigate college, work, or life. Making improvements in one's life takes time and energy both inside the virtual therapy room and in daily life, and I believe that learning concrete skills to implement outside of therapy is necessary to make progress. I use a variety of technology to support clients in using skills on the daily!
I have a 100% online practice, and I especially enjoy working with young adult clients who are in transition—into college or adulthood—and are motivated to learn techniques to grow and evolve. I especially love helping teens and young adults w/ High Functioning Autism, ADHD, LD, or Social Anxiety navigate college, work, or life. Making improvements in one's life takes time and energy both inside the virtual therapy room and in daily life, and I believe that learning concrete skills to implement outside of therapy is necessary to make progress. I use a variety of technology to support clients in using skills on the daily!
![Photo of Christina Sullivan - Broward Therapy Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/812aa50e-1155-437d-82d4-03228c4c636b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Broward Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067
We are dedicated to empowering individuals—children, adolescents, and adults—navigating the complexities of ADHD, autism/Asperger’s, anxiety, OCD, and other neurodiversities, facilitating success through a thoughtful and expert approach. We employ a personalized, neuro-affirming, and comprehensive strategy, utilizing multi-disciplinary interventions. This approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also cultivates connections, enhances confidence, and fosters independence. Our focus extends beyond short-term goals, aiming to equip individuals with the skills essential for sustained social, emotional and academic success.
We are dedicated to empowering individuals—children, adolescents, and adults—navigating the complexities of ADHD, autism/Asperger’s, anxiety, OCD, and other neurodiversities, facilitating success through a thoughtful and expert approach. We employ a personalized, neuro-affirming, and comprehensive strategy, utilizing multi-disciplinary interventions. This approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also cultivates connections, enhances confidence, and fosters independence. Our focus extends beyond short-term goals, aiming to equip individuals with the skills essential for sustained social, emotional and academic success.
![Photo of Eric J Nach, PhD, MEd, ASDc, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8158237-5c7f-40a3-9fe9-883b3e76ef6e/3/320x400.jpeg)
WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES, SCHOOLS JUST CAN'T! With a Ph.D. focusing on “Instructional Use of Research-Based Interventions for Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder”, I am a former ESE Department Chairperson and teacher, past and current National Speaker on many topics relating to ASD, ADHD and behaviors. At our “Counseling and Learning Center”, since 2012, my team of Counselors, Coaches and I conduct *College Life Skills, *Individual and Family Counseling, *Therapeutic Social Skills, *Executive Functioning, and *Behavior Modification Programs, Parent Training and much more.
WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES, SCHOOLS JUST CAN'T! With a Ph.D. focusing on “Instructional Use of Research-Based Interventions for Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder”, I am a former ESE Department Chairperson and teacher, past and current National Speaker on many topics relating to ASD, ADHD and behaviors. At our “Counseling and Learning Center”, since 2012, my team of Counselors, Coaches and I conduct *College Life Skills, *Individual and Family Counseling, *Therapeutic Social Skills, *Executive Functioning, and *Behavior Modification Programs, Parent Training and much more.
![Photo of Joanna Marko - Autism And Child Therapist, LMHC, ASDCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c35cef2-2bbb-4c0a-bbc7-3eade20a696c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Marko - Autism And Child Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067
Healthy relationships are the foundation of your child’s resilience. Sense of Resiliency Counseling offers child and family therapy, specializing in trauma, behavioral challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder. When we begin to focus not on the behaviors, but on the root cause and emotional needs, that is when healing truly begins.
Healthy relationships are the foundation of your child’s resilience. Sense of Resiliency Counseling offers child and family therapy, specializing in trauma, behavioral challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder. When we begin to focus not on the behaviors, but on the root cause and emotional needs, that is when healing truly begins.
![Photo of Taylour L Musto - MOD Behavior ABA, MS, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05a2279d-195c-463b-a2f0-1990264a5c08/3/320x400.jpeg)
Behavioral health treatment services are evidence-based treatments that are proven to be effective in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Are you Interested in receiving Home Based ABA Therapy for your child? We at MOD Behavior ABA want you to know that you get out exactly what you put in. We are not here to fix your child or to cure autism. Our goal and our mission will be to find out what your child loves, what motivates him or her, and what brings them joy as a whole and healthy, already complete individual. Working from a place of joy we want to use the strength of the motivators to teach new skills that open up opportunities and give your child access to all the good things in life.
Behavioral health treatment services are evidence-based treatments that are proven to be effective in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Are you Interested in receiving Home Based ABA Therapy for your child? We at MOD Behavior ABA want you to know that you get out exactly what you put in. We are not here to fix your child or to cure autism. Our goal and our mission will be to find out what your child loves, what motivates him or her, and what brings them joy as a whole and healthy, already complete individual. Working from a place of joy we want to use the strength of the motivators to teach new skills that open up opportunities and give your child access to all the good things in life.
![Photo of Taylour Musto - MOD Behavior ABA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9e88728-191e-4288-b90a-0697f95e75a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
** Please note that we cannot move forward in the process without an autism diagnosis.
MOD Behavior ABA provides In home and community ABA services to all of Palm Beach County & some parts of North Broward County. For ABA services, an experienced behavior technician comes to your home, and conducts ABA therapy with a sole purpose on teaching socially significant behaviors: functional communication skills, daily living activities (ADL’s), potty training, social/emotional skills training, academic foundational help and alternatives to challenging behaviors. In addition to the child’s behaviors, we also educate the parents on various techniques and strategies to implement when we are not around.
** Please note that we cannot move forward in the process without an autism diagnosis.
MOD Behavior ABA provides In home and community ABA services to all of Palm Beach County & some parts of North Broward County. For ABA services, an experienced behavior technician comes to your home, and conducts ABA therapy with a sole purpose on teaching socially significant behaviors: functional communication skills, daily living activities (ADL’s), potty training, social/emotional skills training, academic foundational help and alternatives to challenging behaviors. In addition to the child’s behaviors, we also educate the parents on various techniques and strategies to implement when we are not around.
![Photo of Dr. Jeremy Grunfeld, Ph D, LMFT, C-DBT, C-ASDCS, ADHD-CC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f6a3411-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jeremy Grunfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ph D, LMFT, C-DBT, C-ASDCS, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33076
I am a Certified DBT Therapist, Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
The hardest part is over. You have made the first step to resolving the problem. With 26 years of experience in the field, I pride myself on working with people who have not achieved desired results in previous therapy experiences. Sessions are provided both in-person and through teletherapy. I have extensive experience helping adolescents and adults who are not feeling satisfied with their lives. Additionally, I have a team of professionals who offer psychological evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, speech and language therapy, social skills training, and ABA Therapy.
I am a Certified DBT Therapist, Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
The hardest part is over. You have made the first step to resolving the problem. With 26 years of experience in the field, I pride myself on working with people who have not achieved desired results in previous therapy experiences. Sessions are provided both in-person and through teletherapy. I have extensive experience helping adolescents and adults who are not feeling satisfied with their lives. Additionally, I have a team of professionals who offer psychological evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, speech and language therapy, social skills training, and ABA Therapy.
![Photo of Stephanie Eckler, MPsy, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef5bd97-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, panic, autism spectrum, parenting stress, depression, loss/grief, relationship changes, social challenges, life transitions, teen issues, obsessions/compulsions, low self esteem, and emotional stresses. Stephanie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, and a Certified Mindfulness-informed Clinician with many years of experience delivering evidence based psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strength based approaches, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Anxiety, panic, autism spectrum, parenting stress, depression, loss/grief, relationship changes, social challenges, life transitions, teen issues, obsessions/compulsions, low self esteem, and emotional stresses. Stephanie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, and a Certified Mindfulness-informed Clinician with many years of experience delivering evidence based psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strength based approaches, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
![Photo of Samantha Carella - Pediatric Psychology Associates, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46db8081-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pediatric Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067
We also offer psychoeducational/neuropsychological testing for learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental issues.
Pediatric Psychology Associates (PPA) is a specialized practice composed of highly qualified and dedicated clinicians. Our therapists are caring and experienced in dealing with a range of issues affecting children and their families. Services provided include comprehensive psychological/psychoeducational evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, individual and family psychotherapy, social thinking and psychotherapy groups, and consults/trainings to schools, medical professionals in the community. Clinicians at PPA have expertise in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, eating disorders, anxiety and OCD, behavioral medicine issues, and general emotional/psychological concerns. Our practice also focuses on aspects of positive psychology and general enhancement of quality of life.
We also offer psychoeducational/neuropsychological testing for learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental issues.
Pediatric Psychology Associates (PPA) is a specialized practice composed of highly qualified and dedicated clinicians. Our therapists are caring and experienced in dealing with a range of issues affecting children and their families. Services provided include comprehensive psychological/psychoeducational evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, individual and family psychotherapy, social thinking and psychotherapy groups, and consults/trainings to schools, medical professionals in the community. Clinicians at PPA have expertise in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, eating disorders, anxiety and OCD, behavioral medicine issues, and general emotional/psychological concerns. Our practice also focuses on aspects of positive psychology and general enhancement of quality of life.
![Photo of Marie Therese Rogers, PhD, RYT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59b809c2-5867-41d4-b73b-8f467ffa099e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Areas in which I evaluate (for children 3 and up) include, but are not limited to, gifted, ADHD, head injuries, autism spectrum, learning disorders, and anxiety and mood disorders.
Welcome! There is no limit to how good, how healthy and how energized you can feel! I am the host of the LIFE in FOCUS podcast, which has an accompanying blog by the same name, and am all about connecting the fields of psychoneuroimmunology (the mind -body connection), executive functioning and mindfulness. I invite you to check out my podcast and blog.
Areas in which I evaluate (for children 3 and up) include, but are not limited to, gifted, ADHD, head injuries, autism spectrum, learning disorders, and anxiety and mood disorders.
Welcome! There is no limit to how good, how healthy and how energized you can feel! I am the host of the LIFE in FOCUS podcast, which has an accompanying blog by the same name, and am all about connecting the fields of psychoneuroimmunology (the mind -body connection), executive functioning and mindfulness. I invite you to check out my podcast and blog.
![Photo of Alexsey Goodman, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72bc5c4f-5a0e-4834-9e56-e396f2d2d416/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Alexsey Goodman. I am an Independent Contract Clinician at Genesis Counseling with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. I have multiple years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, such as non-profit organizations, schools and outpatient clinics. I have worked with children of all ages, who have a multitude of diagnoses including, Depression, ADHD, Parent/Child Relational Problems, Anxiety, Mood, Adjustment and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Hi! My name is Alexsey Goodman. I am an Independent Contract Clinician at Genesis Counseling with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. I have multiple years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, such as non-profit organizations, schools and outpatient clinics. I have worked with children of all ages, who have a multitude of diagnoses including, Depression, ADHD, Parent/Child Relational Problems, Anxiety, Mood, Adjustment and those on the Autism Spectrum.
15 Second Videos
Eric J Nach
Marie Therese Rogers
Benjamin Thomas Bachus
Tracey Rubenstein
![Photo of Arthur H Brand, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/948ca676-8eae-43d2-a791-2eda13e1a30d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I conduct evaluations and provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating a broad range of Anxiety and Mood Disorders; issues common in pre-teens, adolescents and young adults; behavior problems and family issues; men’s issues; as well as evaluating for AD/HD, Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders (high functioning) and Gifted Placement.
I conduct evaluations and provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating a broad range of Anxiety and Mood Disorders; issues common in pre-teens, adolescents and young adults; behavior problems and family issues; men’s issues; as well as evaluating for AD/HD, Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders (high functioning) and Gifted Placement.
![Photo of Lauryn Young, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30e138cb-feee-4afd-b93d-c312852294c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Families seek my services to receive answers to their questions regarding their child's learning and/or behavior. Typical concerns include learning disabilities (i.e., dyslexia), giftedness, intellectual functioning, ADHD, developmental delays, and Autism. My ideal client is one who is looking for a clinician who can diagnose, consult, and collaborate to provide meaningful recommendations and resources to bridge the gap between their child's school, home, and community. Most importantly, my clients are searching for recommendations that are easily understood by school-based teams and appropriate within the school setting.
Families seek my services to receive answers to their questions regarding their child's learning and/or behavior. Typical concerns include learning disabilities (i.e., dyslexia), giftedness, intellectual functioning, ADHD, developmental delays, and Autism. My ideal client is one who is looking for a clinician who can diagnose, consult, and collaborate to provide meaningful recommendations and resources to bridge the gap between their child's school, home, and community. Most importantly, my clients are searching for recommendations that are easily understood by school-based teams and appropriate within the school setting.
![Photo of Susan B. Flax - Licensed School Psychologist, Psy S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53167860-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan B. Flax - Licensed School Psychologist
Psy S
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33076 (Online Only)
My goal is for every student to feel their personal best. I want my clients to realize their abilities and attain everything they want to achieve. I empower your student, by helping him or her realize strengths and provide skills to overcome or compensate for challenges. We ALL have some attention deficit, anxiety, depression, learning, and autism spectrum disorder characteristics that interfere at times. Private psychological testing helps us know when these behaviors or feelings are beyond what is age expected and how it may hinder success. Individual therapy helps us learn to minimize the negatives, feel confident and be happy.
My goal is for every student to feel their personal best. I want my clients to realize their abilities and attain everything they want to achieve. I empower your student, by helping him or her realize strengths and provide skills to overcome or compensate for challenges. We ALL have some attention deficit, anxiety, depression, learning, and autism spectrum disorder characteristics that interfere at times. Private psychological testing helps us know when these behaviors or feelings are beyond what is age expected and how it may hinder success. Individual therapy helps us learn to minimize the negatives, feel confident and be happy.
![Photo of Benjamin Thomas Bachus, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2d7e78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
"Life ultimately means taking the responsibility to find the right answer to its problems & to fulfill the tasks which it constantly sets for each individual." - Victor Frankl. When working with me, you can expect to feel safe, supported, & appreciated. However, you can also expect to feel challenged & encouraged. It is my goal to work with you (not just FOR you) to help align your values with your actions to help you be the person you want to be & live the kind of life you want to live. Life can present challenges & opportunities in many unique forms. Sometimes, it is hard to distinguish between the two.
"Life ultimately means taking the responsibility to find the right answer to its problems & to fulfill the tasks which it constantly sets for each individual." - Victor Frankl. When working with me, you can expect to feel safe, supported, & appreciated. However, you can also expect to feel challenged & encouraged. It is my goal to work with you (not just FOR you) to help align your values with your actions to help you be the person you want to be & live the kind of life you want to live. Life can present challenges & opportunities in many unique forms. Sometimes, it is hard to distinguish between the two.
![Photo of Stacey Steinbaum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/329283d6-b690-405b-b775-20df0297d005/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Steinbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33076 (Online Only)
In life we experience heartbreak, loss, and challenging times. Although hardships can be difficult to overcome, they are ultimately an opportunity for personal growth. As your therapist, I will provide you with the necessary tools to improve your relationships, recognize your own strengths, and heal. As we work together you will develop the skills to navigate through life in a healthier and happier way. Regardless of what you are going through, I believe I can help you.
In life we experience heartbreak, loss, and challenging times. Although hardships can be difficult to overcome, they are ultimately an opportunity for personal growth. As your therapist, I will provide you with the necessary tools to improve your relationships, recognize your own strengths, and heal. As we work together you will develop the skills to navigate through life in a healthier and happier way. Regardless of what you are going through, I believe I can help you.
![Photo of Kristen Camacho, MS, MSB, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ae99a25-66f7-4c88-a002-159a38cb2a03/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Camacho
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MSB, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Kristen, a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals and families through the transformative power of Narrative and Collaborative Therapy. Embarking on a therapeutic journey requires courage, and I am honored to walk alongside you. Together, we will unravel patterns, explore untold stories, and co-author a narrative that reflects your authentic self. Whether you're navigating challenges in your marriage, family dynamics, or personal growth, I am committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for your unique narrative to unfold.
Greetings! I'm Kristen, a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals and families through the transformative power of Narrative and Collaborative Therapy. Embarking on a therapeutic journey requires courage, and I am honored to walk alongside you. Together, we will unravel patterns, explore untold stories, and co-author a narrative that reflects your authentic self. Whether you're navigating challenges in your marriage, family dynamics, or personal growth, I am committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for your unique narrative to unfold.
![Photo of Leonard J. Ferrante, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c222873-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
When family and friends are not enough, allow me to help you find the answers. With 30 years of combined clinical training and experience in Florida & New York at Maimonides Medical Center in Adult & Child Psychiatry, Syosset Central School District, and in private practice with specialties in Psychoanalysis and Child Psychology, I have been helping adults and children improve their emotional well-being. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist I also administer psycho-educational tests to find solutions to academic problems that may lead to educational interventions and accommodations for public and private schools, and college entrance examinations.
When family and friends are not enough, allow me to help you find the answers. With 30 years of combined clinical training and experience in Florida & New York at Maimonides Medical Center in Adult & Child Psychiatry, Syosset Central School District, and in private practice with specialties in Psychoanalysis and Child Psychology, I have been helping adults and children improve their emotional well-being. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist I also administer psycho-educational tests to find solutions to academic problems that may lead to educational interventions and accommodations for public and private schools, and college entrance examinations.
![Photo of Judy Gunn, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9ec203-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As human beings, we are hard-wired to be securely connected in relationship. We are happier and even live longer lives. At the same time, we are hard-wired to protect ourselves which can create a lot of conflict in relationship with others and with our authenticate self.
As human beings, we are hard-wired to be securely connected in relationship. We are happier and even live longer lives. At the same time, we are hard-wired to protect ourselves which can create a lot of conflict in relationship with others and with our authenticate self.
![Photo of Lauren Fisher, LMHC, EdS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c71764e-6895-49f1-88a0-0d5cc64a8257/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Coral Springs, FL, and virtually throughout Florida. In my approach to counseling I value developing a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my clients as I believe it is vital for personal growth and healing to occur. I tailor treatment to each individual as I maintain ongoing collaboration and communication with them. I truly understand that individuals are resilient and they have the power within themselves to gain self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Coral Springs, FL, and virtually throughout Florida. In my approach to counseling I value developing a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my clients as I believe it is vital for personal growth and healing to occur. I tailor treatment to each individual as I maintain ongoing collaboration and communication with them. I truly understand that individuals are resilient and they have the power within themselves to gain self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
See more therapy options for Parkland
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Parkland
- Boca Raton
- Coconut Creek
- Coral Springs
- Deerfield Beach
- Delray Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Oakland Park
- Plantation
- Pompano Beach
- Sunrise
- Tamarac
- Wilton Manors
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.