Autism Therapists in Weston, FL

Photo of Amber Kovach, LCPC, Counselor
Amber Kovach
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Amber! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Maryland and Florida. While completing my degree at Johns Hopkins University, I found my passion for helping people especially neurodivergent minds like my own. As soon as I could, I developed more skills and became a clinical specialist for Autism (ASDCS) and ADHD (ADHD-CCSP) in addition to my niche of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and child centered play therapy. I am a strong believer in providing empathetic & individualized care in a structured manner and that greatly aligns to my role.
Hi, I’m Amber! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Maryland and Florida. While completing my degree at Johns Hopkins University, I found my passion for helping people especially neurodivergent minds like my own. As soon as I could, I developed more skills and became a clinical specialist for Autism (ASDCS) and ADHD (ADHD-CCSP) in addition to my niche of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and child centered play therapy. I am a strong believer in providing empathetic & individualized care in a structured manner and that greatly aligns to my role.
(954) 621-1927 View (954) 621-1927
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Weiss Quittner, MSEd, PhD, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Alyssa Weiss Quittner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSEd, PhD, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33331
I engage in research on Autism, coping strategies for families with children who have Autism and treatments for children who have special needs.
I provide comprehensive individual, couple, and family therapy for those who may be experiencing difficulties in their relationship. I assist individuals, couples and families by facilitating positive change in their behavior, interactions and relationships. I feel clients have the answers they need within themselves and I use a strength-based approach to help bring about the desired understanding and change they are seeking.
I engage in research on Autism, coping strategies for families with children who have Autism and treatments for children who have special needs.
I provide comprehensive individual, couple, and family therapy for those who may be experiencing difficulties in their relationship. I assist individuals, couples and families by facilitating positive change in their behavior, interactions and relationships. I feel clients have the answers they need within themselves and I use a strength-based approach to help bring about the desired understanding and change they are seeking.
(561) 948-6155 View (561) 948-6155
Photo of Kattie Doran, LMHC, Counselor
Kattie Doran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Kattie, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I have found immense joy in my role as a therapist for the neurodivergent community, grateful for the ability to witness resilience and personal growth. I have been counseling adults, many with neurodivergent qualities or diagnoses for four years. In personal realms, I embrace ADHD and Autism in some of my loved friends and family! I feel it is so important to affirm a neurodivergent experience within a world designed for neurotypical folks. I can work with you to guide you to learn the depths of your strengths and abilities to truly feel empowered.
Hello! I am Kattie, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I have found immense joy in my role as a therapist for the neurodivergent community, grateful for the ability to witness resilience and personal growth. I have been counseling adults, many with neurodivergent qualities or diagnoses for four years. In personal realms, I embrace ADHD and Autism in some of my loved friends and family! I feel it is so important to affirm a neurodivergent experience within a world designed for neurotypical folks. I can work with you to guide you to learn the depths of your strengths and abilities to truly feel empowered.
(954) 335-7138 View (954) 335-7138
Photo of Katie Amit, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Katie Amit
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326
Hi! I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. I share many neurodivergent traits, and enjoy helping clients to develop skills to better manage anxiety and improve their quality of life. I share many neurodivergent traits and am close to several people who are autistic. I am proud to be a part of the evolution of changing how autism is felt and seen.
Hi! I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. I share many neurodivergent traits, and enjoy helping clients to develop skills to better manage anxiety and improve their quality of life. I share many neurodivergent traits and am close to several people who are autistic. I am proud to be a part of the evolution of changing how autism is felt and seen.
(954) 299-3352 View (954) 299-3352
Photo of Agatha Morello, PsyD, Psychologist
Agatha Morello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326
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 Maribel Del Rio-Roberts - The Playful Minds Psychology Center of South FL, PsyD, Psychologist
The Playful Minds Psychology Center of South FL
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33331
I specialize in evaluations that provide clarity and useful recommendations for referral questions including: Learning Disorders (Reading, Mathematics, Writing) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Processing Disorders (processing speed, memory), Developmental Evaluations Intellectual Functioning Gifted & Talented Career/Vocational Emotional & Behavioral (anxiety, depression, oppositional & conduct disorders, adjustment issues).
Are you a parent looking to better understand the challenges that your child is facing and how to enhance his/her strengths to develop their weaknesses? Or are you looking to best understand how to keep your child challenged and engaged in the learning process? Are you looking for diagnostic evaluations that include comprehensive recommendations that can provide you with information regarding appropriate placement settings and accommodations within the classroom to maximize learning? Have you been struggling to understand your child's behavior or developmental progress and feel that a diagnostic evaluation could provide you with the answers that you have been looking for?
I specialize in evaluations that provide clarity and useful recommendations for referral questions including: Learning Disorders (Reading, Mathematics, Writing) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Processing Disorders (processing speed, memory), Developmental Evaluations Intellectual Functioning Gifted & Talented Career/Vocational Emotional & Behavioral (anxiety, depression, oppositional & conduct disorders, adjustment issues).
Are you a parent looking to better understand the challenges that your child is facing and how to enhance his/her strengths to develop their weaknesses? Or are you looking to best understand how to keep your child challenged and engaged in the learning process? Are you looking for diagnostic evaluations that include comprehensive recommendations that can provide you with information regarding appropriate placement settings and accommodations within the classroom to maximize learning? Have you been struggling to understand your child's behavior or developmental progress and feel that a diagnostic evaluation could provide you with the answers that you have been looking for?
(954) 866-1153 View (954) 866-1153
Photo of Lina Maria Moyano, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lina Maria Moyano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326
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 Dr. Alexandra Victoria, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alexandra Victoria
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326  (Online Only)
Victoria’s clinical specialties include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, behavioral problems, eating disorders, mood disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Prader-Willi Syndrome.
Dr. Alexandra Victoria, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience with children (ages 2-13), adolescents (ages 13-17), families, and adults. Her expertise spans across various settings, including in-patient hospitals, residential facilities, and private practice. Treating complex issues like interpersonal difficulties, family dynamic conflicts, trauma-related distress, life transitions, and child developmental/emotional challenges, Dr. Victoria ensures compassionate yet effective care.
Victoria’s clinical specialties include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, behavioral problems, eating disorders, mood disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Prader-Willi Syndrome.
Dr. Alexandra Victoria, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience with children (ages 2-13), adolescents (ages 13-17), families, and adults. Her expertise spans across various settings, including in-patient hospitals, residential facilities, and private practice. Treating complex issues like interpersonal difficulties, family dynamic conflicts, trauma-related distress, life transitions, and child developmental/emotional challenges, Dr. Victoria ensures compassionate yet effective care.
(954) 519-7432 View (954) 519-7432
Photo of Samantha Carella - Pediatric Psychology Associates, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Pediatric Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326
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.
(954) 753-1112 View (954) 753-1112
Photo of Megan Michelle Lavado, PsyD, Psychologist
Megan Michelle Lavado
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment of autism, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disability, mood disorders and a range of psychiatric disorders. Evaluations are conducted for diagnostic clarity to guide treatment, intervention and offer detailed recommendations that will help you succeed and reach your highest potential. Once the evaluation is completed, I will provide a comprehensive report and meet with you to discuss the results, explain the findings and review the recommendations.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment of autism, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disability, mood disorders and a range of psychiatric disorders. Evaluations are conducted for diagnostic clarity to guide treatment, intervention and offer detailed recommendations that will help you succeed and reach your highest potential. Once the evaluation is completed, I will provide a comprehensive report and meet with you to discuss the results, explain the findings and review the recommendations.
(305) 780-6439 View (305) 780-6439
Photo of Dr. Halle Roebuck, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Halle Roebuck
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33332
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 Allison Phinney, LMHC, Counselor
Allison Phinney
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Allison Phinney, a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. I am passionate about empowering clients with the skills and resources they need to thrive. My expertise in mindfulness enables me to provide holistic and evidence-based interventions that promote positive outcomes and help prevent crises. It is important to me to remain driven and value diversity, equity, and inclusion; I strive to make a difference in the lives of my clients every day.
Hello! I'm Allison Phinney, a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. I am passionate about empowering clients with the skills and resources they need to thrive. My expertise in mindfulness enables me to provide holistic and evidence-based interventions that promote positive outcomes and help prevent crises. It is important to me to remain driven and value diversity, equity, and inclusion; I strive to make a difference in the lives of my clients every day.
(941) 340-1805 View (941) 340-1805
Photo of Stephanie Safos-Moriarty, LMHC, LPC, PC, Counselor
Stephanie Safos-Moriarty
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326
My name is Stephanie and I am a licensed mental health counselor and licensed professional counselor in the states of Florida, Virginia, and Connecticut. I identify as neurodivergent and love working with neurodivergent clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, strength based, person centered, solution focused, and an eclectic approach with my clients to meet each of my clients’ individual needs. My warm and caring approach allows my clients to feel safe as I walk beside you throughout your counseling journey.
My name is Stephanie and I am a licensed mental health counselor and licensed professional counselor in the states of Florida, Virginia, and Connecticut. I identify as neurodivergent and love working with neurodivergent clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, strength based, person centered, solution focused, and an eclectic approach with my clients to meet each of my clients’ individual needs. My warm and caring approach allows my clients to feel safe as I walk beside you throughout your counseling journey.
(954) 710-0313 View (954) 710-0313
Photo of Malena S. Martinez, MS, BCBA
Malena S. Martinez
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33331
For the past 19 years, I have worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), offering therapy to children with neurodiversity, ages 2-18, in diverse settings including homes, schools, and clinics. My focus has been on achieving various goals, including mitigating maladaptive behaviors, fostering the acquisition of learning-to-learn behaviors, functional communication, enhancing play skills, promoting independence in daily living tasks, facilitating food desensitization, supporting potty training, and nurturing cognitive and social skills development.
For the past 19 years, I have worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), offering therapy to children with neurodiversity, ages 2-18, in diverse settings including homes, schools, and clinics. My focus has been on achieving various goals, including mitigating maladaptive behaviors, fostering the acquisition of learning-to-learn behaviors, functional communication, enhancing play skills, promoting independence in daily living tasks, facilitating food desensitization, supporting potty training, and nurturing cognitive and social skills development.
(954) 758-5725 View (954) 758-5725
Photo of Katie Belcher, LMHC, QS, CAS
Katie Belcher
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, QS, CAS
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326
Hello! My name is Katie, and I am licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I identify as neurodivergent (ADHD with Autistic traits), and in particular, I love helping neurodivergent clients learn how to better manage their anxieties and mood difficulties in order to improve their quality of life. Professionally, my passion for the Autistic community started when I was in college. I volunteered two years in a row for a camp for Autistic kids and teens and was amazed at how well I connected with the kids and how rewarding the work was.
Hello! My name is Katie, and I am licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I identify as neurodivergent (ADHD with Autistic traits), and in particular, I love helping neurodivergent clients learn how to better manage their anxieties and mood difficulties in order to improve their quality of life. Professionally, my passion for the Autistic community started when I was in college. I volunteered two years in a row for a camp for Autistic kids and teens and was amazed at how well I connected with the kids and how rewarding the work was.
(954) 314-3204 View (954) 314-3204
Photo of Ruth Ocampo, MS, LMFT, ESMHL, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruth Ocampo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ESMHL
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33331
Are you afraid to tell your partner about your personal truths? When people are feeling alone, they are disconnected. In these moments of isolation our thoughts of being not understood, or even loved can create reactions and responses that are less helpful. I work with my clients to identify these feelings and responses in order to uncover more fitting approaches to our inter/intra personal relationships. Lasting change sometimes begins with direct feedback. In our setting authenticity and understanding flow both ways. My specialty is helping you navigate newness with validation, support and the tools to generalize our work, to your personal and professional lives.
Are you afraid to tell your partner about your personal truths? When people are feeling alone, they are disconnected. In these moments of isolation our thoughts of being not understood, or even loved can create reactions and responses that are less helpful. I work with my clients to identify these feelings and responses in order to uncover more fitting approaches to our inter/intra personal relationships. Lasting change sometimes begins with direct feedback. In our setting authenticity and understanding flow both ways. My specialty is helping you navigate newness with validation, support and the tools to generalize our work, to your personal and professional lives.
(305) 930-6997 View (305) 930-6997
Photo of Dr. Lauren Goldstein, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lauren Goldstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33331
Are you looking for guidance to better understand both your strengths and areas of opportunity for growth, whether that is for yourself or for your child? Do you have unanswered questions about why you or your child struggles with certain tasks or in specific settings? As a neurodiversity-affirming licensed psychologist, my goal is to help you achieve clarity, uncover strengths, and provide specific, actionable steps you (or your child) can take to achieve your full potential.
Are you looking for guidance to better understand both your strengths and areas of opportunity for growth, whether that is for yourself or for your child? Do you have unanswered questions about why you or your child struggles with certain tasks or in specific settings? As a neurodiversity-affirming licensed psychologist, my goal is to help you achieve clarity, uncover strengths, and provide specific, actionable steps you (or your child) can take to achieve your full potential.
(954) 738-7787 View (954) 738-7787
Photo of Mary Joseth Miranda-Tourino - We Belong Counseling - Mary Joseth Miranda-Tourino, MSW, LCSW, ACHP-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
We Belong Counseling - Mary Joseth Miranda-Tourino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACHP-SW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33331
Hi! I believe compassion, empathy, self-awareness along with love and sense of purpose is the combination we need to live a life of purpose and to overcome obstacles. I am here to assist you in any way possible! You are not alone!
Hi! I believe compassion, empathy, self-awareness along with love and sense of purpose is the combination we need to live a life of purpose and to overcome obstacles. I am here to assist you in any way possible! You are not alone!
(754) 399-1423 View (754) 399-1423
Photo of Frances M Berman, PsyD, Psychologist
Frances M Berman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326
My ideal client is someone that knows that they require some sort of assistance and are looking for guidance. They may have issues related to depression, to difficulty in peer relationships, and/or issues related to health and happiness. They want to feel better and are eager to receive help. They want to see more productive ways to deal with life and life issues. They are eager for change and are eager to accept new ways to deal with their clinical issues.
My ideal client is someone that knows that they require some sort of assistance and are looking for guidance. They may have issues related to depression, to difficulty in peer relationships, and/or issues related to health and happiness. They want to feel better and are eager to receive help. They want to see more productive ways to deal with life and life issues. They are eager for change and are eager to accept new ways to deal with their clinical issues.
(954) 231-2362 View (954) 231-2362
Photo of Dawn Pilger Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Dawn Pilger Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33331
Making you feel comfortable is my top priority. You will feel understood & empathized with as well as empowered with new tools to deal with either the emotions you are struggling with or the relationships causing you stress. You can experience & approach your world differently. I work with kids, teens, adults, couples & families. I've had great success in helping clients with Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Mgmt, Assertiveness Training, Grief, Self-Esteem, Behavior Problems, Self-esteem, ADHD, Parenting, Eating Disorders, Sexuality Issues, Teen Adjustment, Couples & Family Therapy, Women's Issues & Coping with Divorce/Separation.
Making you feel comfortable is my top priority. You will feel understood & empathized with as well as empowered with new tools to deal with either the emotions you are struggling with or the relationships causing you stress. You can experience & approach your world differently. I work with kids, teens, adults, couples & families. I've had great success in helping clients with Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Mgmt, Assertiveness Training, Grief, Self-Esteem, Behavior Problems, Self-esteem, ADHD, Parenting, Eating Disorders, Sexuality Issues, Teen Adjustment, Couples & Family Therapy, Women's Issues & Coping with Divorce/Separation.
(754) 333-6900 View (754) 333-6900
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.