Therapists in Lithonia, GA
![Photo of Cieria Swain, MS, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4670c90-d5ce-44a5-87f0-fb9c578f51d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cieria Swain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Lithonia, GA 30058 (Online Only)
My passion resides in providing a warm, comfortable environment where you can truly be yourself. I integrate different theoretical models throughout practice. I have experience with diverse populations, including clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, sexual behavior problems, stress management, self-esteem, various traumatic experiences, depression, and anxiety disorders. My goal is to help ease your most challenging emotions while addressing patterns and experiences that keep you feeling powerless in your life.
My passion resides in providing a warm, comfortable environment where you can truly be yourself. I integrate different theoretical models throughout practice. I have experience with diverse populations, including clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, sexual behavior problems, stress management, self-esteem, various traumatic experiences, depression, and anxiety disorders. My goal is to help ease your most challenging emotions while addressing patterns and experiences that keep you feeling powerless in your life.
![Photo of Vanita Moon - Moon Counseling and Consulting Service, LLC, EdD, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4085e9b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Moon Counseling and Consulting Service, LLC
Pastoral Counselor, EdD
Verified Verified
Lithonia, GA 30058
I am a School Counselor and have experience as a Community Counselor as well. My responsibility as a mental health practitioner is to support mental health and guide clients to a better out look on life and a positive view about who they are and the importance of their life in this world. I especially gear my focus to children in middle school, adolescents, but also offer support to adults who are in crisis as well. My experience working with families, who are in crisis, have had successful resolves. Creating family plans, and mediating between family members to find a resolve is my strength.
I am a School Counselor and have experience as a Community Counselor as well. My responsibility as a mental health practitioner is to support mental health and guide clients to a better out look on life and a positive view about who they are and the importance of their life in this world. I especially gear my focus to children in middle school, adolescents, but also offer support to adults who are in crisis as well. My experience working with families, who are in crisis, have had successful resolves. Creating family plans, and mediating between family members to find a resolve is my strength.
The People of Promise Psychological Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lithonia, GA 30058
The people of Promise Psychological Service is centered on for fulfilling client's needs. God has stated that we are people of promise, which means that we are entitled to a healthy mind. This agency givest hat extra special touch to mental health, and treats all clients with dignity and respect.
The people of Promise Psychological Service is centered on for fulfilling client's needs. God has stated that we are people of promise, which means that we are entitled to a healthy mind. This agency givest hat extra special touch to mental health, and treats all clients with dignity and respect.
![Photo of Kiara Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a02d8ef-27ac-45a2-8536-74c10910edc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In this day and time Mental Health is something that is not only overlooked but often misunderstood. I strive to provide needed support for my clients no matter what life challenges they may be facing. I work with them to pilot through these challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers. My ideal clients are millennials who find themselves facing challenges navigating through the transition to adulthood. In many cases, this transition can cause stress, anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In this day and time Mental Health is something that is not only overlooked but often misunderstood. I strive to provide needed support for my clients no matter what life challenges they may be facing. I work with them to pilot through these challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers. My ideal clients are millennials who find themselves facing challenges navigating through the transition to adulthood. In many cases, this transition can cause stress, anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues.
![Photo of Charles Bartholomew, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a0e4ffb-bc29-49b0-80b0-366e7c010270/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charles Bartholomew
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lithonia, GA 30038
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Psychologist & member of the American Psychological Association, Georgia Psychological Association, National Association of School Psychologist, Georgia Association of School Psychologists, Adoptive & Foster Parent Association, & National Alliance on Mental Health. I have worked in psychiatric institutions, outpatient mental health clinics, schools, private practice, juvenile detention centers & prisons. Because I believe in the power of prevention & early intervention for mental, emotional & behavioral health problems, my practice is limited to children, young adults (Birth - 21) & families.
I am a Licensed Psychologist & member of the American Psychological Association, Georgia Psychological Association, National Association of School Psychologist, Georgia Association of School Psychologists, Adoptive & Foster Parent Association, & National Alliance on Mental Health. I have worked in psychiatric institutions, outpatient mental health clinics, schools, private practice, juvenile detention centers & prisons. Because I believe in the power of prevention & early intervention for mental, emotional & behavioral health problems, my practice is limited to children, young adults (Birth - 21) & families.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jp Fairclough - Fairclough Behavior Services LLC, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f60659f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! I'm Jaun Paul Fairclough, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, with 15 years of experience in special education. I'm specially trained to work with children with autism and other developmental disabilities. I provide in-home or school-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. I specialize in language, social skills, as well as the reduction of challenging behaviors for children ages 2-18.
Greetings! I'm Jaun Paul Fairclough, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, with 15 years of experience in special education. I'm specially trained to work with children with autism and other developmental disabilities. I provide in-home or school-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. I specialize in language, social skills, as well as the reduction of challenging behaviors for children ages 2-18.
![Photo of Katie Birmingham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd56593-d0d9-42bd-8287-ff1371a51bbd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Birmingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
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.
![Photo of Amy C Bryant, MS, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cafa397-2563-42c8-977d-597b7bc2d76b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy C Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Life is demanding. Add the mental and emotional load of parenting, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, trauma, or recurrent or chronic pain, and you might be left feeling over-burdened, out of control, and unwell. Come restore your strengths, increase your sense of well-being, and reinstate your personal agency over your behaviors, thoughts, emotions, and physiological reactions to yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.
Life is demanding. Add the mental and emotional load of parenting, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, trauma, or recurrent or chronic pain, and you might be left feeling over-burdened, out of control, and unwell. Come restore your strengths, increase your sense of well-being, and reinstate your personal agency over your behaviors, thoughts, emotions, and physiological reactions to yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.
![Photo of Cindy Carman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7881d9a2-6bcf-4e56-9705-3b052b410a81/1/320x400.png)
Hello! I am Cindy Carman PhD, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, families, children, preteens, and minors. I often work with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, adolescent/teen issues, and anger management, among others. I have extensive experience with children and teens with emotional and behavioral disorders. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy modalities. I am an outgoing person that loves to meet new people, and I would like to share with you how therapy can enhance your life!
Hello! I am Cindy Carman PhD, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, families, children, preteens, and minors. I often work with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, adolescent/teen issues, and anger management, among others. I have extensive experience with children and teens with emotional and behavioral disorders. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy modalities. I am an outgoing person that loves to meet new people, and I would like to share with you how therapy can enhance your life!
![Photo of Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5473cf1-9883-4441-aefd-1c7c83d1f645/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
![Photo of Lawanda Harmon, PhD, MS, Pst-Doc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4727dd51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lawanda Harmon has been actively working in the field of mental health since 2010. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling obtained from Walden University, she began working at Community Friendship Inc. as an individual and group therapist. Lawanda continued to pursue her education at the doctoral level, obtaining a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Walden University. During her practicum and internship field experiences, she gained extensive training in Cognitive and Behavioral techniques as well as in Emotional, Personality, and Trauma focused interventions at Atlanta Center for Family Wellness in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Lawanda Harmon has been actively working in the field of mental health since 2010. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling obtained from Walden University, she began working at Community Friendship Inc. as an individual and group therapist. Lawanda continued to pursue her education at the doctoral level, obtaining a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Walden University. During her practicum and internship field experiences, she gained extensive training in Cognitive and Behavioral techniques as well as in Emotional, Personality, and Trauma focused interventions at Atlanta Center for Family Wellness in Atlanta, Georgia.
![Photo of Eleanor Cowart - ATK Marriage & Family Coaching, LLC, MS, EdS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2f38603-eeae-49e3-b71b-f840167ee861/3/320x400.jpeg)
ATK Marriage & Family Coaching, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conyers, GA 30012
I support children, adolescents, and adults with diverse backgrounds and a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, behavioral issues, and family conflicts. I help clients identify their desires and empower them to make positive changes in their lives. I am trained in several models of therapy: integrative, cognitive-behavioral, and reality therapy. My unique approach to goal setting allows me the opportunity to witness client growth and change as they integrate these goals into their daily lives.
I support children, adolescents, and adults with diverse backgrounds and a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, behavioral issues, and family conflicts. I help clients identify their desires and empower them to make positive changes in their lives. I am trained in several models of therapy: integrative, cognitive-behavioral, and reality therapy. My unique approach to goal setting allows me the opportunity to witness client growth and change as they integrate these goals into their daily lives.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Brian L Long, LPC, MAC, NCC, TH-FL, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c3bb5c2-d841-4341-9efb-62a32995e3af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian L Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, NCC, TH-FL
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041 (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults with moderate to severe behavioral and emotional issues, such as AD/HD, oppositional and defiance issues, conduct problems, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism spectrum, relationship conflict, family conflict, anger management, career coaching and substance abuse related disorders and issues.
Greetings! Thank you for viewing my profile. Regarding my experience and education, I received a Master's degree with a specialization in mental health counseling in 2008. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Florida Tele-Health approved provider, National Certified Counselor, and Master Addiction Counselor. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities over the last 21 years. To schedule an appointment and to inquire about your insurance benefits, please visit www.brianleelong.com.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults with moderate to severe behavioral and emotional issues, such as AD/HD, oppositional and defiance issues, conduct problems, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism spectrum, relationship conflict, family conflict, anger management, career coaching and substance abuse related disorders and issues.
Greetings! Thank you for viewing my profile. Regarding my experience and education, I received a Master's degree with a specialization in mental health counseling in 2008. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Florida Tele-Health approved provider, National Certified Counselor, and Master Addiction Counselor. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities over the last 21 years. To schedule an appointment and to inquire about your insurance benefits, please visit www.brianleelong.com.
![Photo of Tessa Lukens, LAPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a45b621-c683-451c-8855-1878ba86cb01/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 6 years experience working with children facing a variety of concerns, including anxiety, grief, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavioral difficulties, and adjustment issues. Through gentle guidance and evidence based interventions, I help children build resilience, enhance self compassion, and strengthen their relationships with others.
I have 6 years experience working with children facing a variety of concerns, including anxiety, grief, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavioral difficulties, and adjustment issues. Through gentle guidance and evidence based interventions, I help children build resilience, enhance self compassion, and strengthen their relationships with others.
![Photo of Robert Hunter - Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c390afc-118b-4c2d-8906-41aece2f8c57/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center provides a wide range of services to include all areas of behavioral health and edducational supportive services including autism services and classroom modifications and interventions.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center provides a wide range of services to include all areas of behavioral health and edducational supportive services including autism services and classroom modifications and interventions.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
![Photo of Avital K Cohen, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd4c19b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have always enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and their families. Currently, my primary focus is on the assessment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), as well as other common problems in the pediatric population, including developmental delays, learning problems, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional disorders, behavioral issues, and more. I am also able to provide a variety of treatment planning/care coordination services, but do not currently offer therapy services. In addition to my work with children and families, I also offer assessment and treatment planning services for adults on the autism spectrum and with other developmental concerns.
I have always enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and their families. Currently, my primary focus is on the assessment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), as well as other common problems in the pediatric population, including developmental delays, learning problems, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional disorders, behavioral issues, and more. I am also able to provide a variety of treatment planning/care coordination services, but do not currently offer therapy services. In addition to my work with children and families, I also offer assessment and treatment planning services for adults on the autism spectrum and with other developmental concerns.
![Photo of Debbie Bryan, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf98ab4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Some areas of focus for my counseling are anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, losses, learning difficulties, and trauma.
Therapy is a process where people can feel emotionally safe. Therapy provides a time and place to focus upon problem solving, growing, and making changes to achieve goals. I meet with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples to address behavioral, emotional, and relational issues. I offer behavioral, emotional, and relational therapeutic interventions to assist my clients. Personal effectiveness and self awareness are important in making choices to promote positive results in life experiences of school, work, and relationships.
Some areas of focus for my counseling are anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, losses, learning difficulties, and trauma.
Therapy is a process where people can feel emotionally safe. Therapy provides a time and place to focus upon problem solving, growing, and making changes to achieve goals. I meet with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples to address behavioral, emotional, and relational issues. I offer behavioral, emotional, and relational therapeutic interventions to assist my clients. Personal effectiveness and self awareness are important in making choices to promote positive results in life experiences of school, work, and relationships.
![Photo of Melissa K Steele-Parks, M Ed, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e53af0b0-a64e-41bb-b1b6-0b211b69a6e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Early intervention is key when it comes to future outcomes for children with autism and other developmental disorders.
I am a BCBA specializing in pediatric behavior therapy services. I have a BA in Linguistics with a focus on atypical language development and a M Ed. in Educational Psychology for Multiple Severe Disabilities with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders. I started my practice in 2015 in Atlanta, GA. I work with children and adolescents who have Autism and other developmental difference. My passion is helping children develop communication and language skills, functional/adaptive daily living skills and social skills and supporting parents and families of children with developmental disorders.
Early intervention is key when it comes to future outcomes for children with autism and other developmental disorders.
I am a BCBA specializing in pediatric behavior therapy services. I have a BA in Linguistics with a focus on atypical language development and a M Ed. in Educational Psychology for Multiple Severe Disabilities with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders. I started my practice in 2015 in Atlanta, GA. I work with children and adolescents who have Autism and other developmental difference. My passion is helping children develop communication and language skills, functional/adaptive daily living skills and social skills and supporting parents and families of children with developmental disorders.
![Photo of Kelsey Myers, MS, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea8246b2-13fd-4f1c-94cf-bc12f50ec5c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
I am passionate about helping young individuals reach their full potential! It is an honor to support children, teens, and young adults in living a life with hope and happiness. I strive to create a safe space that is understanding, creative, and fun so individuals are empowered to grow through self-reflection, explore and build upon their strengths, and be their authentic self. I specialize in supporting mental health needs connected to autism, ADHD, anxiety, self-esteem, anger/aggression, adjustment and grief. I work from a neurodiversity affirming approach and prioritize keeping up with related research and training.
I am passionate about helping young individuals reach their full potential! It is an honor to support children, teens, and young adults in living a life with hope and happiness. I strive to create a safe space that is understanding, creative, and fun so individuals are empowered to grow through self-reflection, explore and build upon their strengths, and be their authentic self. I specialize in supporting mental health needs connected to autism, ADHD, anxiety, self-esteem, anger/aggression, adjustment and grief. I work from a neurodiversity affirming approach and prioritize keeping up with related research and training.
![Photo of Drew Ashlock, LAPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453e99dc-fd74-4072-a6fc-ad62549893fd/2/320x400.png)
With over 8 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations in both residential and outpatient settings. I have worked extensively in inpatient settings with adults dealing with bipolar disorder, autism, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and psychosis. My volunteer work with 'Lost-N-Found Youth' has been particularly rewarding, where I supported homeless young adults who were displaced due to their LGBT+ identity. This experience has strengthened my commitment to my community, advocacy, and support for all marginalized communities.
With over 8 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations in both residential and outpatient settings. I have worked extensively in inpatient settings with adults dealing with bipolar disorder, autism, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and psychosis. My volunteer work with 'Lost-N-Found Youth' has been particularly rewarding, where I supported homeless young adults who were displaced due to their LGBT+ identity. This experience has strengthened my commitment to my community, advocacy, and support for all marginalized communities.
See more therapy options for Lithonia
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.