Autism Therapists in Plantation, FL

Photo of Joely Spencer, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joely Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33322  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical work experience includes working with individuals, couples, and families, step-families, adult ADHD, autism, or other Neurodiversities in individuals, relationships, or within marriages.
People want to feel heard, understood, and cared about. Some individuals find difficulty in making and keeping relationships due to unresolved issues or communication deficits. Autism/ADHD/Neurodiverse couples can struggle with empathy. Often, circular, conflicting patterns of maladaptivity cyclically emerge within relationships long before a couple seeks out help. I work to help individuals and couples learn to listen with intention, address maladaptive struggles, confusion and anger, and instead, learn to seek out areas of compromise, accountability, and forgiveness within their relationships and among themselves.
My clinical work experience includes working with individuals, couples, and families, step-families, adult ADHD, autism, or other Neurodiversities in individuals, relationships, or within marriages.
People want to feel heard, understood, and cared about. Some individuals find difficulty in making and keeping relationships due to unresolved issues or communication deficits. Autism/ADHD/Neurodiverse couples can struggle with empathy. Often, circular, conflicting patterns of maladaptivity cyclically emerge within relationships long before a couple seeks out help. I work to help individuals and couples learn to listen with intention, address maladaptive struggles, confusion and anger, and instead, learn to seek out areas of compromise, accountability, and forgiveness within their relationships and among themselves.
(954) 716-8621 View (954) 716-8621
Photo of Lina Maria Moyano, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lina Maria Moyano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Traditional autism therapies concentrate on modifying behaviors, which are only the tip of the iceberg.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Special Education and a minor in Autism. I have vast experience serving children with developmental differences and their families. I am passionate about helping parents understand the unique challenges of the child. I love coaching parents to follow the child's lead to foster a connection that supports development. I am the Clinical Director of Positive Development in Florida, and through our developmental/ relationship-based approach, our multi-disciplinary team will support you and provide services specific to the needs of your child and your family .
Traditional autism therapies concentrate on modifying behaviors, which are only the tip of the iceberg.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Special Education and a minor in Autism. I have vast experience serving children with developmental differences and their families. I am passionate about helping parents understand the unique challenges of the child. I love coaching parents to follow the child's lead to foster a connection that supports development. I am the Clinical Director of Positive Development in Florida, and through our developmental/ relationship-based approach, our multi-disciplinary team will support you and provide services specific to the needs of your child and your family .
(954) 417-7809 View (954) 417-7809
Photo of Alison Nyman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Nyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include: Adjustment and Life transitions Autism and Special Needs Anxiety, depression, and mood disorders Stress Management Coping Skills Anger Management Conflict resolution and relationship issues Family and effective parenting dynamics Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and native Floridian. I received my Masters in Social Work at New York University, focusing on clinical practice. I connected with my true passion of working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities during my undergrad at the University of Florida. This passion led me to New York and after six years of studying and working in NYC I returned to my Florida roots and have since been working as a Private Therapist. One of my main assets is my ability to listen and understand effectively. I look forward to hearing from you.
My areas of specialty include: Adjustment and Life transitions Autism and Special Needs Anxiety, depression, and mood disorders Stress Management Coping Skills Anger Management Conflict resolution and relationship issues Family and effective parenting dynamics Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and native Floridian. I received my Masters in Social Work at New York University, focusing on clinical practice. I connected with my true passion of working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities during my undergrad at the University of Florida. This passion led me to New York and after six years of studying and working in NYC I returned to my Florida roots and have since been working as a Private Therapist. One of my main assets is my ability to listen and understand effectively. I look forward to hearing from you.
(954) 621-3612 View (954) 621-3612
Photo of Agatha Morello, PsyD, Psychologist
Agatha Morello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder.
Neurodiverse individuals experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways. They may struggle in their relationships, have difficulty managing life transitions, and experience changes in mood/ behavior in response to stress. I recognize these challenges and understand the nuances of working with these individuals. Through a warm, yet honest approach, I aim to help you understand your strengths and learn coping mechanisms that are tailored to your way of thinking. I believe that your differences make you inherently unique. Together, we can learn what works for you.
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder.
Neurodiverse individuals experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways. They may struggle in their relationships, have difficulty managing life transitions, and experience changes in mood/ behavior in response to stress. I recognize these challenges and understand the nuances of working with these individuals. Through a warm, yet honest approach, I aim to help you understand your strengths and learn coping mechanisms that are tailored to your way of thinking. I believe that your differences make you inherently unique. Together, we can learn what works for you.
(786) 755-1549 View (786) 755-1549
Photo of Nancy Pratt, PsyD, Psychologist
Nancy Pratt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Deciding who to entrust with the mental health needs for you or your family is a daunting task. TESTING: adolescent and adult autism, ADHD, and diagnostic clarity. THERAPY: You may be seeking therapy to make sense of distressing events from your past, for a better understanding of yourself, to cope with overwhelming emotions, or to manage relationships/family dynamics. You may be having difficulty controlling self-critical thoughts or worries that are now interfering with daily life or relationships. You're seeing others meet their goals and you're wondering what makes it so difficult for you to do the same.
Deciding who to entrust with the mental health needs for you or your family is a daunting task. TESTING: adolescent and adult autism, ADHD, and diagnostic clarity. THERAPY: You may be seeking therapy to make sense of distressing events from your past, for a better understanding of yourself, to cope with overwhelming emotions, or to manage relationships/family dynamics. You may be having difficulty controlling self-critical thoughts or worries that are now interfering with daily life or relationships. You're seeing others meet their goals and you're wondering what makes it so difficult for you to do the same.
(754) 219-6050 View (754) 219-6050
Photo of Sarine Salama, LMHC, Counselor
Sarine Salama
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you going through a major life transition and need support navigating your emotions? My name is Sarine and I am a bi-lingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for MHC interns with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, conflict, life transitions, grief/loss and managing challenging behaviors in children and teens. I also have a passion for working with individuals with Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their family members.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you going through a major life transition and need support navigating your emotions? My name is Sarine and I am a bi-lingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for MHC interns with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, conflict, life transitions, grief/loss and managing challenging behaviors in children and teens. I also have a passion for working with individuals with Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their family members.
(786) 501-2792 View (786) 501-2792
Photo of Marisa Chiuchiolo, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Marisa Chiuchiolo
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
I have extensive experience with those affected with anxiety, depression, intellectual disability, ADHD, emotional and behavioral disorders, Autism, developmental delays, parent training, and relationship difficulties.
We all experience stressors on a daily basis, however these stressors can sometimes become triggers and become a heavy load for us to carry through life. We start experiencing difficulties with our relationships with others, in our work or studies and we don't find pleasure in activities we used to.
I have extensive experience with those affected with anxiety, depression, intellectual disability, ADHD, emotional and behavioral disorders, Autism, developmental delays, parent training, and relationship difficulties.
We all experience stressors on a daily basis, however these stressors can sometimes become triggers and become a heavy load for us to carry through life. We start experiencing difficulties with our relationships with others, in our work or studies and we don't find pleasure in activities we used to.
(954) 637-7229 View (954) 637-7229
Photo of Dr. Halle Roebuck, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Halle Roebuck
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33322
My all-time favorite quote is “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…it’s learning to dance in the rain.” At Empowered Counseling Services, we learn numerous styles of “dance”. My approach uses your child’s strengths to help facilitate change and growth. The age group I work with is children ages 4 and up and their families. I specialize in working with trauma, loss, anxiety/depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental disabilities, and behavioral difficulties.
My all-time favorite quote is “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…it’s learning to dance in the rain.” At Empowered Counseling Services, we learn numerous styles of “dance”. My approach uses your child’s strengths to help facilitate change and growth. The age group I work with is children ages 4 and up and their families. I specialize in working with trauma, loss, anxiety/depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental disabilities, and behavioral difficulties.
(954) 799-3760 View (954) 799-3760
Photo of Dr. Evelyn M Ramirez, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Evelyn M Ramirez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33317
Dr. Evelyn Ramirez is a distinguished Ivy League-trained clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment and treatment across the lifespan. She has expertise in ADHD, autism, learning issues, language disorders and other developmental disabilities. Dr. Ramirez also evaluates and provides cognitive rehabilitation for individuals affected by brain injuries, strokes, epilepsy, dementia and other neurological conditions. A skilled psychotherapist, she uses evidence-based interventions to help patients manage stress, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Evelyn Ramirez is a distinguished Ivy League-trained clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment and treatment across the lifespan. She has expertise in ADHD, autism, learning issues, language disorders and other developmental disabilities. Dr. Ramirez also evaluates and provides cognitive rehabilitation for individuals affected by brain injuries, strokes, epilepsy, dementia and other neurological conditions. A skilled psychotherapist, she uses evidence-based interventions to help patients manage stress, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric conditions.
(954) 787-4584 View (954) 787-4584
Photo of Stephanie Camejo, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephanie Camejo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist who specializes in assessment and treatment of children and adolescents experiencing emotional and/or behavioral difficulties; including anxiety, ADHD, depression, disruptive behavior disorders, social skills issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other developmental disabilities. I understand the importance of parental involvement in the lives of children and I work with families to determine treatment goals. I utilize evidenced-based interventions matched to your child and family's unique strengths and abilities to develop a highly personalized approach.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist who specializes in assessment and treatment of children and adolescents experiencing emotional and/or behavioral difficulties; including anxiety, ADHD, depression, disruptive behavior disorders, social skills issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other developmental disabilities. I understand the importance of parental involvement in the lives of children and I work with families to determine treatment goals. I utilize evidenced-based interventions matched to your child and family's unique strengths and abilities to develop a highly personalized approach.
(786) 581-8516 View (786) 581-8516
Photo of Jeymarie Guerra, LMHC, RPT, ASDCS
Jeymarie Guerra
LMHC, RPT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33313
As a Registered Play Therapist and specialist in ADHD and Autism, I offer play therapy, AutPlay Therapy, TF-CBT, and Filial therapy.
Are you or your child navigating ADHD or Autism and seeking a neuroaffirming approach? You may face challenges with self-regulation, social interactions, or processing trauma. Your goal is to embrace your unique strengths, build confidence, and foster positive family connections.
As a Registered Play Therapist and specialist in ADHD and Autism, I offer play therapy, AutPlay Therapy, TF-CBT, and Filial therapy.
Are you or your child navigating ADHD or Autism and seeking a neuroaffirming approach? You may face challenges with self-regulation, social interactions, or processing trauma. Your goal is to embrace your unique strengths, build confidence, and foster positive family connections.
(954) 371-2704 View (954) 371-2704
Photo of Pamela Cohen, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Pamela Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are seeking clarity on IQ (giftedness or intellectual disability), ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Specific Learning Disorders (including Dyslexia), and more.
Are you the parent of a child or adolescent who is struggling with learning, attention, or other challenges? If the answer is yes, you've come to the right place. Maybe your child is not performing their best in school, is often becoming frustrated with their work or with peers, is anxious, is having social difficulties, or would benefit from learning about their personal strengths and areas of growth. A psychological or psychoeducational evaluation will provide you and your family the opportunity to obtain the clarity, recommendations, and guidance that you deserve.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are seeking clarity on IQ (giftedness or intellectual disability), ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Specific Learning Disorders (including Dyslexia), and more.
Are you the parent of a child or adolescent who is struggling with learning, attention, or other challenges? If the answer is yes, you've come to the right place. Maybe your child is not performing their best in school, is often becoming frustrated with their work or with peers, is anxious, is having social difficulties, or would benefit from learning about their personal strengths and areas of growth. A psychological or psychoeducational evaluation will provide you and your family the opportunity to obtain the clarity, recommendations, and guidance that you deserve.
(954) 371-2920 View (954) 371-2920
Photo of Richard Griff - Griff Psychological Associates , PsyD, Psychologist
Griff Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33317
Bariatric Evaluation, Autism Testing, Emotional Support Letters.
Griff Psychological Associates is a comprehensive practice that includes both male and female clinicians including bilingual clinicians. Griff Psychological Associates provides individual, group, family, and child psychotherapy. Psychological Evaluations and Sport Psychological Evaluations are additional services. Griff Psychological Associates therapists has a vast range of experiences that cater to peak performance populations to child populations to chronically physically and mentally ill populations to populations that have suffered trauma.
Bariatric Evaluation, Autism Testing, Emotional Support Letters.
Griff Psychological Associates is a comprehensive practice that includes both male and female clinicians including bilingual clinicians. Griff Psychological Associates provides individual, group, family, and child psychotherapy. Psychological Evaluations and Sport Psychological Evaluations are additional services. Griff Psychological Associates therapists has a vast range of experiences that cater to peak performance populations to child populations to chronically physically and mentally ill populations to populations that have suffered trauma.
(954) 278-3630 View (954) 278-3630
Photo of Stacy Gordon-Studnik, LMHC
Stacy Gordon-Studnik
LMHC
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33325  (Online Only)
I believe clients have the answers they need within themselves and I work through empathy and compassion to help bring about the desired understanding and change they are seeking. I'm dedicated to working collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families to set and achieve their goals.
I believe clients have the answers they need within themselves and I work through empathy and compassion to help bring about the desired understanding and change they are seeking. I'm dedicated to working collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families to set and achieve their goals.
(954) 231-3450 View (954) 231-3450
Photo of Noah Goldberg, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Noah Goldberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33313
Noah Goldberg received a Master's degree in Social Work from Barry University and is currently a post-Master's registered clinical social work intern. He was born and raised in Costa Rica and speaks fluent Spanish and English. He has experience working with all age ranges; and has additional experience working with adolescents and adults in the criminal justice system, clients dually diagnosed with substance abuse experience with the special needs populations. He is proud to be a member of Turning Point Mental Health and looks forward to helping all his clients.
Noah Goldberg received a Master's degree in Social Work from Barry University and is currently a post-Master's registered clinical social work intern. He was born and raised in Costa Rica and speaks fluent Spanish and English. He has experience working with all age ranges; and has additional experience working with adolescents and adults in the criminal justice system, clients dually diagnosed with substance abuse experience with the special needs populations. He is proud to be a member of Turning Point Mental Health and looks forward to helping all his clients.
(954) 874-8010 View (954) 874-8010
Photo of Alexis Resnick, PhD, Psychologist
Alexis Resnick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
As a licensed psychologist, I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with a range of populations, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, anger, disruptive behavior disorders, learning disorders, selective mutism, social difficulties, and life changes (e.g., entering middle school, high school, college, or the workforce; going through a divorce; having a new baby; moving, etc.). I have worked in various settings including schools, medical centers, and university-based clinics.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with a range of populations, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, anger, disruptive behavior disorders, learning disorders, selective mutism, social difficulties, and life changes (e.g., entering middle school, high school, college, or the workforce; going through a divorce; having a new baby; moving, etc.). I have worked in various settings including schools, medical centers, and university-based clinics.
(954) 228-8922 View (954) 228-8922
Photo of Chanrika Morley, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Chanrika Morley
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
I believe each individual is unique in their own way. My goal is to help each individual reach their full potential. Collaboratively, I will work with you to find your true self and bring out the strengths that you already posses. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2013. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, human trafficking, behavioral disorders, Depression, Anxiety, other severe and persistent mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities and other special needs. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with these issues, I am here to help.
I believe each individual is unique in their own way. My goal is to help each individual reach their full potential. Collaboratively, I will work with you to find your true self and bring out the strengths that you already posses. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2013. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, human trafficking, behavioral disorders, Depression, Anxiety, other severe and persistent mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities and other special needs. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with these issues, I am here to help.
(954) 519-7791 View (954) 519-7791
Photo of Dr. Rachel Shafrir, PsyD, NCSP
Dr. Rachel Shafrir
PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
Do you or your child, despite obvious intelligence, struggle with completing simple tasks? Or maybe you go from 0-100 in a matter of seconds and experience triggers from even the smallest things. I am here to help. As a psychologist specializing in comprehensive evaluations, I have extensive experience in assessing and understanding the unique needs of children, teens, and young adults with ADHD, giftedness/2e, learning differences & mood disorders. I also specialize in assisting teens and young adults in navigating the unique challenges faced and helping them develop coping strategies.
Do you or your child, despite obvious intelligence, struggle with completing simple tasks? Or maybe you go from 0-100 in a matter of seconds and experience triggers from even the smallest things. I am here to help. As a psychologist specializing in comprehensive evaluations, I have extensive experience in assessing and understanding the unique needs of children, teens, and young adults with ADHD, giftedness/2e, learning differences & mood disorders. I also specialize in assisting teens and young adults in navigating the unique challenges faced and helping them develop coping strategies.
(954) 787-6359 View (954) 787-6359
Photo of Samantha S. Samarelli, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha S. Samarelli
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Hi there! I want to say how proud I am of you for taking this first step. I know it can be tough, but I'm here to support you! My approach to therapy focuses on building a collaborative relationship with each client, working together to create lasting change. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages, from teens to seniors. I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental space where everyone can gain insight and tackle their current challenges. My style combines compassion, humor, and authenticity, helping clients feel at ease throughout the process.
Hi there! I want to say how proud I am of you for taking this first step. I know it can be tough, but I'm here to support you! My approach to therapy focuses on building a collaborative relationship with each client, working together to create lasting change. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages, from teens to seniors. I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental space where everyone can gain insight and tackle their current challenges. My style combines compassion, humor, and authenticity, helping clients feel at ease throughout the process.
(954) 870-4412 View (954) 870-4412
Photo of Ana T Santana - Center for Neuropsychological Services (CNS), PsyD, Psychologist
Center for Neuropsychological Services (CNS)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Dr. Ana Santana is a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, for the state of Florida. She specializes in psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluations, psychoeducational and vocational rehabilitation psychodiagnostic testing for job-related recommendations. She has received extensive bilingual training conducting neuropsychological evaluations with neurologically impaired outpatients and inpatients, with a diverse clinical diagnosis including traumatic brain injury; polytrauma; cerebrovascular accidents and a variety of neurological and medical disorders. Her approach to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and empirically based treatments. Within her approach she integrates therapeutic modalities that work best with the treatment needs of the individual.
Dr. Ana Santana is a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, for the state of Florida. She specializes in psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluations, psychoeducational and vocational rehabilitation psychodiagnostic testing for job-related recommendations. She has received extensive bilingual training conducting neuropsychological evaluations with neurologically impaired outpatients and inpatients, with a diverse clinical diagnosis including traumatic brain injury; polytrauma; cerebrovascular accidents and a variety of neurological and medical disorders. Her approach to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and empirically based treatments. Within her approach she integrates therapeutic modalities that work best with the treatment needs of the individual.
(954) 509-7617 View (954) 509-7617
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.