Autism Therapists in Carrollton, GA

Photo of John Prucha, APC, NCC, Counselor
John Prucha
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117
I specialize in autism, acute stress management, crisis & trauma, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, and disaster mental health.
My name is John and I use a short-term, neuro-informed, person-centered, non-judgmental approach to mental health counseling. I hold to the belief that you are the expert on you, you are unique, not broken, and that you have it within yourself to achieve growth, balance, and inner peace. I offer a place where your concerns are respectfully and empathetically listened to with "unconditional positive regard". My goal is only that you leave resilient, more aware, and grow into the person you desire to become with a newfound ability to cope with life's stressors and process trauma of the past from a holistic perspective.
I specialize in autism, acute stress management, crisis & trauma, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, and disaster mental health.
My name is John and I use a short-term, neuro-informed, person-centered, non-judgmental approach to mental health counseling. I hold to the belief that you are the expert on you, you are unique, not broken, and that you have it within yourself to achieve growth, balance, and inner peace. I offer a place where your concerns are respectfully and empathetically listened to with "unconditional positive regard". My goal is only that you leave resilient, more aware, and grow into the person you desire to become with a newfound ability to cope with life's stressors and process trauma of the past from a holistic perspective.
(470) 372-1361 View (470) 372-1361
Photo of Joshua Grubb, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Grubb
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117
Challenges related to depression, anxiety, ADHD and high-functioning autism can be difficult to say the least, but there are ways to work with these experiences to make it easier for you. I have experience working with clients who have multiple mental health issues and enjoy working with clients who are looking to manage and/or overcome the difficulties of these experiences.
Challenges related to depression, anxiety, ADHD and high-functioning autism can be difficult to say the least, but there are ways to work with these experiences to make it easier for you. I have experience working with clients who have multiple mental health issues and enjoy working with clients who are looking to manage and/or overcome the difficulties of these experiences.
(470) 281-2730 View (470) 281-2730
Photo of Brian Long, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Long
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117  (Online Only)
I have worked with many individuals, families and couples addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, , narcissism and borderline traits, PTSD, suicidal ideations, domestic violence, anger management, autism spectrum, impulse control, abuse and neglect, oppositional and defiant behaviors, alcohol and drug addiction, career burn out.
Greetings! Thank you for taking the time to review my Bio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia and an approved Tele-Mental Health provider in Florida. I have been providing counseling for 18-years, and have worked in the field of mental health and substance use for 21-years. My approach is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which includes developing a treatment plan to determine how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors may be affecting your overall emotional, psychological and physical well-being. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities.
I have worked with many individuals, families and couples addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, , narcissism and borderline traits, PTSD, suicidal ideations, domestic violence, anger management, autism spectrum, impulse control, abuse and neglect, oppositional and defiant behaviors, alcohol and drug addiction, career burn out.
Greetings! Thank you for taking the time to review my Bio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia and an approved Tele-Mental Health provider in Florida. I have been providing counseling for 18-years, and have worked in the field of mental health and substance use for 21-years. My approach is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which includes developing a treatment plan to determine how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors may be affecting your overall emotional, psychological and physical well-being. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities.
(678) 712-2514 View (678) 712-2514
Photo of Amy Wagner, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117  (Online Only)
You are not what happens to you. Crisis, transition, and past suffering can be overwhelming, and are even more so when you try to navigate them alone. You may find that now you are dealing with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, brain fog, and more. Therapy is an invitation to step into a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve difficult challenges in your life. With safety and presence, tending to and healing past wounds is possible. The things that have happened to you can become one part of your legacy, not the biggest part. You are not your suffering, you are so much more than that.
You are not what happens to you. Crisis, transition, and past suffering can be overwhelming, and are even more so when you try to navigate them alone. You may find that now you are dealing with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, brain fog, and more. Therapy is an invitation to step into a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve difficult challenges in your life. With safety and presence, tending to and healing past wounds is possible. The things that have happened to you can become one part of your legacy, not the biggest part. You are not your suffering, you are so much more than that.
(678) 336-8246 View (678) 336-8246
Photo of Danyale Weems - Waves Counseling Services, LLC, LCSW, CCTP, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Waves Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Carrollton, GA 30117
You're tired of the constant nagging and fighting. The tantrums are exhausting and embarrassing. You're constantly explaining yourself and you just don't understand why your child seems to ask the same question over and over. You've noticed your child is more irritable and becomes easily frustrated. You're not sure if your child's behavior is normal. Your child gives up when things become hard. You're constantly questioning yourself and you feel as though you're failing at this whole parent thing. You think something could be wrong. You want help. It's tough being a parent; WE get it! Together we will make things better.
You're tired of the constant nagging and fighting. The tantrums are exhausting and embarrassing. You're constantly explaining yourself and you just don't understand why your child seems to ask the same question over and over. You've noticed your child is more irritable and becomes easily frustrated. You're not sure if your child's behavior is normal. Your child gives up when things become hard. You're constantly questioning yourself and you feel as though you're failing at this whole parent thing. You think something could be wrong. You want help. It's tough being a parent; WE get it! Together we will make things better.
(470) 400-8741 View (470) 400-8741
Photo of Dr. Mercedes Williams - populations and interventions team company (PITC), DBH, MPH, LMSW, CADCIII, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
populations and interventions team company (PITC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, MPH, LMSW, CADCIII, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, GA 30117
Health is "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." To link behavioral risk factors to outcomes so that early interventions can begin, we (Populations and Interventions Teams Company, PITC) address correlated conditions. We strive to make client experiences less complicated but complete, considering the lack of transportation in our rural areas, using evidence-based public health practices and behavioral health practice modalities. We collaborate to achieve treatment goals that would result in improved health outcomes.
Health is "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." To link behavioral risk factors to outcomes so that early interventions can begin, we (Populations and Interventions Teams Company, PITC) address correlated conditions. We strive to make client experiences less complicated but complete, considering the lack of transportation in our rural areas, using evidence-based public health practices and behavioral health practice modalities. We collaborate to achieve treatment goals that would result in improved health outcomes.
(678) 658-3350 View (678) 658-3350
Photo of Ashlyn Ware, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashlyn Ware
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, GA 30118  (Online Only)
Late Afternoon & Weekend Appointment Options - Welcome! I'm Ashlyn, a therapist committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards mental wellness. My practice encompasses a wide array of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, stress management, and trauma recovery. Whether you're navigating the challenges of adolescence, seeking support for individual growth, or striving to strengthen family bonds, I'm here to provide compassionate guidance and evidence-based solutions.
Late Afternoon & Weekend Appointment Options - Welcome! I'm Ashlyn, a therapist committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards mental wellness. My practice encompasses a wide array of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, stress management, and trauma recovery. Whether you're navigating the challenges of adolescence, seeking support for individual growth, or striving to strengthen family bonds, I'm here to provide compassionate guidance and evidence-based solutions.
(770) 741-0030 View (770) 741-0030

Online Therapists

Photo of Kitrina Bush, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kitrina Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30315
Additionally, I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Family Relational Conflict.
I believe in creating a new therapy for each client and that you are the expert of your life. By building a trusting therapeutic relationship with you, I want to help guide you through the challenges life can bring. I utilize an integrative, person-centered approach to therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Art Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and several other therapeutic modalities. My clinical experience has given me the skills to efficiently treat ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Complicated Grief and Loss, Anxiety Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
Additionally, I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Family Relational Conflict.
I believe in creating a new therapy for each client and that you are the expert of your life. By building a trusting therapeutic relationship with you, I want to help guide you through the challenges life can bring. I utilize an integrative, person-centered approach to therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Art Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and several other therapeutic modalities. My clinical experience has given me the skills to efficiently treat ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Complicated Grief and Loss, Anxiety Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
(706) 397-4207 View (706) 397-4207
Photo of Dr. Tamyra Edwards - Magnolia Wellness & Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Magnolia Wellness & Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
Magnolia Wellness & Psychology offers comprehensive Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disability evaluations, counseling, and coaching services for children and adolescents (ages 3-17) and adults (ages 18+).
Ever wondered if you or your child may have Autism, ADHD, or a Learning Disability? Does your child struggle with social interaction, regulating emotions, or changes in routine? Do you have trouble paying attention, getting things done, or remembering important things? Has your child struggled in one or more areas of learning? If you answered yes to any of these, an evaluation, counseling, or coaching could be what you need! Our goal is to understand who you are, highlight both your strengths and vulnerabilities, and offer action plans that help you meet your personal, professional, academic, and social-emotional goals!
Magnolia Wellness & Psychology offers comprehensive Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disability evaluations, counseling, and coaching services for children and adolescents (ages 3-17) and adults (ages 18+).
Ever wondered if you or your child may have Autism, ADHD, or a Learning Disability? Does your child struggle with social interaction, regulating emotions, or changes in routine? Do you have trouble paying attention, getting things done, or remembering important things? Has your child struggled in one or more areas of learning? If you answered yes to any of these, an evaluation, counseling, or coaching could be what you need! Our goal is to understand who you are, highlight both your strengths and vulnerabilities, and offer action plans that help you meet your personal, professional, academic, and social-emotional goals!
(678) 562-8824 View (678) 562-8824
Photo of Katie Richard, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Richard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
I support clients facing a variety of challenges, including emotion regulation, autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment, identity, relationships, and parenting.
Hello and welcome! Along my journey to becoming a counselor, I truly gained experience in what it means to take heart, have courage, and show up in my own life and the lives of others. I consider it an honor to now provide a safe place for children, teens, young adults, and parents to do the same. I prioritize holding space for all my clients to have the freedom to share, explore, create, regulate, play, and heal. I support little ones learning how to handle big feelings, kids and teens navigating growing up, young adults making their way in the world and building their own families, and the challenges that come with parenthood.
I support clients facing a variety of challenges, including emotion regulation, autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment, identity, relationships, and parenting.
Hello and welcome! Along my journey to becoming a counselor, I truly gained experience in what it means to take heart, have courage, and show up in my own life and the lives of others. I consider it an honor to now provide a safe place for children, teens, young adults, and parents to do the same. I prioritize holding space for all my clients to have the freedom to share, explore, create, regulate, play, and heal. I support little ones learning how to handle big feelings, kids and teens navigating growing up, young adults making their way in the world and building their own families, and the challenges that come with parenthood.
(470) 835-0790 View (470) 835-0790
Photo of Rabia Subhani, PsyD, Psychologist
Rabia Subhani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31904  (Online Only)
Are you an adult looking for an autism/ADHD evaluation via telehealth? Or someone looking for a spiritually-based life coach, someone to help you live and work from a place of clear soul-alignment so everything you do reflects your truest self? How about someone who helps you understand what is holding you back from living with purpose, passion, and complete authenticity? And shows you how to live life as if it was rigged in your favor (as Rumi says). Who would you be if....you lived with no barriers or boundaries to what and who you could become? And you lived each day with joy and a love of living each moment to the fullest.
Are you an adult looking for an autism/ADHD evaluation via telehealth? Or someone looking for a spiritually-based life coach, someone to help you live and work from a place of clear soul-alignment so everything you do reflects your truest self? How about someone who helps you understand what is holding you back from living with purpose, passion, and complete authenticity? And shows you how to live life as if it was rigged in your favor (as Rumi says). Who would you be if....you lived with no barriers or boundaries to what and who you could become? And you lived each day with joy and a love of living each moment to the fullest.
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Photo of Janie Thompson, LPC, Counselor
Janie Thompson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
My name is Janie Thompson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dalton, Georgia working statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults with an array of issues such as but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic approach to other modalities. My style and approach have been a good fit for teens, young adults, and older adults. Those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, marital issues, self-esteem, Autism, PTSD, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, and life transitional issues.
My name is Janie Thompson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dalton, Georgia working statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults with an array of issues such as but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic approach to other modalities. My style and approach have been a good fit for teens, young adults, and older adults. Those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, marital issues, self-esteem, Autism, PTSD, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, and life transitional issues.
(470) 730-6976 View (470) 730-6976
Photo of Shaleena Walden, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shaleena Walden
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30157  (Online Only)
As an openly gay, transgender therapist I offer a unique, lived perspective to my clients who are part of the LGBTQIA+. My greatest passion is to help those struggling to make the transition from survival to "thrival". Whether that's through providing therapy for depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or offering support for other experiences such as life transitions, grief/loss, LGBTQIA+ related issues, compassion fatigue, burnout, or any of life's other ups and downs. I am licensed in Georgia and have worked for a Community Mental Health facility for over 7 years.
As an openly gay, transgender therapist I offer a unique, lived perspective to my clients who are part of the LGBTQIA+. My greatest passion is to help those struggling to make the transition from survival to "thrival". Whether that's through providing therapy for depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or offering support for other experiences such as life transitions, grief/loss, LGBTQIA+ related issues, compassion fatigue, burnout, or any of life's other ups and downs. I am licensed in Georgia and have worked for a Community Mental Health facility for over 7 years.
(470) 570-1109 View (470) 570-1109
Photo of Dustin Ellis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dustin Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
Dustin works with individual adults and couples to address a wide range of needs, such as better understanding and managing reactive emotions that lead to negative interaction patterns and conflict. Navigating through grief and loss, work-life, balance, perfectionism, and motivation. Learning parenting skills/strategies, parenting a child on the autism spectrum or with ADHD. Management of adult ADHD symptoms and developing novel coping skills to emerging needs through stage of life changes. My client's goals are to understand why they feel the way they do and to improve communication and intimacy.
Dustin works with individual adults and couples to address a wide range of needs, such as better understanding and managing reactive emotions that lead to negative interaction patterns and conflict. Navigating through grief and loss, work-life, balance, perfectionism, and motivation. Learning parenting skills/strategies, parenting a child on the autism spectrum or with ADHD. Management of adult ADHD symptoms and developing novel coping skills to emerging needs through stage of life changes. My client's goals are to understand why they feel the way they do and to improve communication and intimacy.
(470) 748-3239 View (470) 748-3239
Photo of Tiffany Cook-King, MSSA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tiffany Cook-King
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSSA
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Navigating life sometimes feels like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces—especially when you’re living with ADHD, autism, or exploring your LGBTQ+ identity. As someone with autism and from an LGBTQ+ background myself, I bring both personal insight and professional training to my practice, helping you embrace your unique strengths and work through life’s challenges in a way that honors who you are.
Navigating life sometimes feels like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces—especially when you’re living with ADHD, autism, or exploring your LGBTQ+ identity. As someone with autism and from an LGBTQ+ background myself, I bring both personal insight and professional training to my practice, helping you embrace your unique strengths and work through life’s challenges in a way that honors who you are.
(470) 260-7119 x103 View (470) 260-7119 x103
Photo of Mercedes Kamerman, PsyD, Psychologist
Mercedes Kamerman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dawsonville, GA 30534
We complete general diagnostic evaluations such as those for ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, or learning difficulties.
With nearly 10 years of experience in private practice, I have worked closely with a multitude of diverse individuals, couples and families from all walks of life, treating numerous, distinct conditions. I love my work and am often described by my clients as warm, authentic, empathic and knowledgeable. I’m proud of being a psychologist, and I hope you reach out and tell me what I can do to help you.
We complete general diagnostic evaluations such as those for ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, or learning difficulties.
With nearly 10 years of experience in private practice, I have worked closely with a multitude of diverse individuals, couples and families from all walks of life, treating numerous, distinct conditions. I love my work and am often described by my clients as warm, authentic, empathic and knowledgeable. I’m proud of being a psychologist, and I hope you reach out and tell me what I can do to help you.
(706) 909-3853 View (706) 909-3853
Photo of Line Fleming, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Line Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30022
Line has partnered with these individuals and families seeking help with chronic illness, disability, anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and life transitions.
Line believes in meeting the clients where they are. She utilizes a person-centered approach to help clients dictate their goals and areas of growth for their unique personal journey. She utilizes various approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused therapies to encourage attainable results. Her approach maintains awareness of the issues and the flexibility to uniquely meet clients’ needs. Line seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with her clients to assist in building on their strengths, meeting their goals, and living the meaningful life they value and desire.
Line has partnered with these individuals and families seeking help with chronic illness, disability, anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and life transitions.
Line believes in meeting the clients where they are. She utilizes a person-centered approach to help clients dictate their goals and areas of growth for their unique personal journey. She utilizes various approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused therapies to encourage attainable results. Her approach maintains awareness of the issues and the flexibility to uniquely meet clients’ needs. Line seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with her clients to assist in building on their strengths, meeting their goals, and living the meaningful life they value and desire.
(678) 990-2575 View (678) 990-2575
Photo of Katie Birmingham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Birmingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
In my work with teenagers and adults, I have found that peoples' unique qualities play a critical role in helping them acknowledge, implement, & sustain their own coping abilities. My mission as a therapist is to help facilitate growth & navigation of challenges in a manner that allows clients to feel authentic, capable & safe. I specialize in working with teens, adolescents, & adults to address issues related to Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, self esteem, & stress management. From start to finish of your counseling journey, my goal is to support you through your most accessible and empowering means.
In my work with teenagers and adults, I have found that peoples' unique qualities play a critical role in helping them acknowledge, implement, & sustain their own coping abilities. My mission as a therapist is to help facilitate growth & navigation of challenges in a manner that allows clients to feel authentic, capable & safe. I specialize in working with teens, adolescents, & adults to address issues related to Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, self esteem, & stress management. From start to finish of your counseling journey, my goal is to support you through your most accessible and empowering means.
(404) 341-6339 View (404) 341-6339
Photo of Amanda Kriegel, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Kriegel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
I specialize in supporting children and families using a strength-based approach. I believe in neurodiversity and that there is not a "one size fits all" intervention. I work with children, adolescents, young adults ,and late diagnosed adults who have been diagnosed with Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, ADHD and/or Anxiety. I help families to see their child's potential and advocate for education services.
I specialize in supporting children and families using a strength-based approach. I believe in neurodiversity and that there is not a "one size fits all" intervention. I work with children, adolescents, young adults ,and late diagnosed adults who have been diagnosed with Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, ADHD and/or Anxiety. I help families to see their child's potential and advocate for education services.
(470) 236-5835 View (470) 236-5835
Photo of Lizzy Wingate, Ed S, LAPC, Counselor
Lizzy Wingate
Counselor, Ed S, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
I specialize in working with neurodivergent (and neurotypical) children, adolescents, and adults looking for support with Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, life adjustments, relationship issues, and more.
It takes bravery and courage to reach out for help. As your counselor, I am here to help and to provide you with tools and skills to create measurable change in your life. I view the therapeutic process as a joint effort and it is my belief that every client deserves to feel supported on their journey. In the therapeutic space, you will be able to gain self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-understanding. Together, we will seek to move past the challenges that hold you back and set goals for the future that will allow you to pursue a fulfilled life.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent (and neurotypical) children, adolescents, and adults looking for support with Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, life adjustments, relationship issues, and more.
It takes bravery and courage to reach out for help. As your counselor, I am here to help and to provide you with tools and skills to create measurable change in your life. I view the therapeutic process as a joint effort and it is my belief that every client deserves to feel supported on their journey. In the therapeutic space, you will be able to gain self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-understanding. Together, we will seek to move past the challenges that hold you back and set goals for the future that will allow you to pursue a fulfilled life.
(470) 684-5166 View (470) 684-5166

See more therapy options for Carrollton

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.