Autism Therapists in Stone Mountain, GA
![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 Ashley Williams-Whitley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1658e29-7883-42c9-b142-34d0cf4eda19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Williams-Whitley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stone Mountain, GA 30087
Dr. Ashley Williams-Whitley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. Dr. Ashley holds certifications as a Nationally Certified Counselor. Dr. Ashley received her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Mercer University in 2023, a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Clark Atlanta University in 2018, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Minor in Business Administration from the University of Central Arkansas in 2016.
Dr. Ashley Williams-Whitley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. Dr. Ashley holds certifications as a Nationally Certified Counselor. Dr. Ashley received her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Mercer University in 2023, a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Clark Atlanta University in 2018, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Minor in Business Administration from the University of Central Arkansas in 2016.
![Photo of Maureen P. Nolan, LPC, MACC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21b205ab-fff2-4749-8a92-bff03f8bb67d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen P. Nolan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MACC, NCC
Verified Verified
Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (Online Only)
Is your attention scattered? How is your decision-making? Some of your thoughts may be scattered. Your daily routines may still be new, or they need stability and have limitations. Find your place of strength in your body. Breathe and believe in your abilities. Experience compassionate healing. I guide you to process thoughts and emotions for personal growth, recovery, and change. Discover your personal sense of grounding. It is available to every person, in every situation. Have you discussed organization issues? body issues? anxiety? trauma? Trauma in life disrupts your thoughts and emotional management. This can be healed.
Is your attention scattered? How is your decision-making? Some of your thoughts may be scattered. Your daily routines may still be new, or they need stability and have limitations. Find your place of strength in your body. Breathe and believe in your abilities. Experience compassionate healing. I guide you to process thoughts and emotions for personal growth, recovery, and change. Discover your personal sense of grounding. It is available to every person, in every situation. Have you discussed organization issues? body issues? anxiety? trauma? Trauma in life disrupts your thoughts and emotional management. This can be healed.
![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
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
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.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lauren S Castriota, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6d832d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am available to conduct psychoeducational and diagnostic evaluations, and I have training and experience using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) with clients of all ages.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a specialty in working with adults with Asperger's Syndrome, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help my clients learn to cope with the symptoms of depression and anxiety that often accompany Asperger's. I also work with individuals of all ages seeking to increase their daily living skills. Additionally, I am available to work with parents who are struggling with their child's challenging behaviors.
I am available to conduct psychoeducational and diagnostic evaluations, and I have training and experience using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) with clients of all ages.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a specialty in working with adults with Asperger's Syndrome, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help my clients learn to cope with the symptoms of depression and anxiety that often accompany Asperger's. I also work with individuals of all ages seeking to increase their daily living skills. Additionally, I am available to work with parents who are struggling with their child's challenging behaviors.
![Photo of Matthew Shugart - Align Wellness, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f2cf491-e138-4dce-80dc-89e3cc251d15/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating neurodiversity and Autism, healing from the complexities of trauma, seeking support and recovery from eating disorders, and anyone who wants to embrace the potential of a major life transition.
Welcome, I’m Matthew, and I'm here to guide you on a transformative journey towards a more authentic, fulfilling, and purposeful life. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, I want you to know that I'll meet you right where you are, and that I’ll be on your team. It's incredibly important to me that everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their orientation, race, background, or identity.
I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating neurodiversity and Autism, healing from the complexities of trauma, seeking support and recovery from eating disorders, and anyone who wants to embrace the potential of a major life transition.
Welcome, I’m Matthew, and I'm here to guide you on a transformative journey towards a more authentic, fulfilling, and purposeful life. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, I want you to know that I'll meet you right where you are, and that I’ll be on your team. It's incredibly important to me that everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their orientation, race, background, or identity.
![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 Becky Lamont - Pathways Behavioral Consulting, LLC., MEd, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a14773-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pathways is a premier provider of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy and consultation services to individuals with autism and related disorders throughout the state of Georgia. We work with individuals ranging in age from birth to adult in home, school, and community settings. Services are provided by our highly trained staff of BCBA, BCaBA,RBT, and behavior therapists. We accept all major insurances. Our goal is to get you on the right path to taking steps to a brighter future!
Pathways is a premier provider of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy and consultation services to individuals with autism and related disorders throughout the state of Georgia. We work with individuals ranging in age from birth to adult in home, school, and community settings. Services are provided by our highly trained staff of BCBA, BCaBA,RBT, and behavior therapists. We accept all major insurances. Our goal is to get you on the right path to taking steps to a brighter future!
![Photo of Jaymie Fox, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd453d3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed clinical psychologist, my primary specialty focuses on the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and other acute and chronic medical or genetic conditions. I enjoy working with families from diverse cultural backgrounds, abilities, ages, and presenting complaints.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, my primary specialty focuses on the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and other acute and chronic medical or genetic conditions. I enjoy working with families from diverse cultural backgrounds, abilities, ages, and presenting complaints.
![Photo of Dr. Erinisha L. Johnson, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8c6bd4e-34f8-4380-a7c3-a2fcec90dd8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Erinisha L. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30333
I specialize in Autism, as well as other obstacles such as depression, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem.
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, anxious, and overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions? Maybe you are experiencing emotional stressors, social deficits, or connection/relationship difficulties? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop a creative plan to learn and implement coping skills to overcome these struggles. I treat clients from all walks of life and of all ages. I treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, anger, work or school issues, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, and marital issues including divorce.
I specialize in Autism, as well as other obstacles such as depression, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem.
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, anxious, and overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions? Maybe you are experiencing emotional stressors, social deficits, or connection/relationship difficulties? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop a creative plan to learn and implement coping skills to overcome these struggles. I treat clients from all walks of life and of all ages. I treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, anger, work or school issues, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, and marital issues including divorce.
![Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Burnett-Brown - Briarpatch Solutions/Dr. Jacqueline Burnett-Brown, PhD, LMFT, ASDCS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd63dac7-33e9-4984-b869-a8f384bd4cfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Briarpatch Solutions/Dr. Jacqueline Burnett-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Chamblee, GA 30341
We are especially passionate about our work with BIPOC, LBGTQ, women, and other marginalized groups, including adults and teens on the autism spectrum.
Briarpatch Solutions LLC and the training branch of the practice, Briarpatch Institute of Marriage and Family Therapy, offer access to affordable mental health options in Atlanta. Briarpatch Solutions provides full-fee and insurance-paid services, while the Institute offers affordable sliding-scale services. We are an inclusive practice with doors open to all people. Our philosophy is that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion and have access to quality, affordable healthcare.
We are especially passionate about our work with BIPOC, LBGTQ, women, and other marginalized groups, including adults and teens on the autism spectrum.
Briarpatch Solutions LLC and the training branch of the practice, Briarpatch Institute of Marriage and Family Therapy, offer access to affordable mental health options in Atlanta. Briarpatch Solutions provides full-fee and insurance-paid services, while the Institute offers affordable sliding-scale services. We are an inclusive practice with doors open to all people. Our philosophy is that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion and have access to quality, affordable healthcare.
![Photo of Damir Hecimovic - DH Therapy LLC, Damir Hecimovic, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/793b1e86-ef9a-435a-bf8c-3a3cfce635b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to our world of pediatric therapy, where we're all about nurturing children to blossom into confident, independent individuals. We offer services for children and adolescents with different developmental disabilities including Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Learning Difficulties, Emotional Regulation, Motor Skills and Coordination, and Language Disorder. We provide Occupational, Speech, and ABA Therapy (children 1-6 years old) all in one place.
Welcome to our world of pediatric therapy, where we're all about nurturing children to blossom into confident, independent individuals. We offer services for children and adolescents with different developmental disabilities including Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Learning Difficulties, Emotional Regulation, Motor Skills and Coordination, and Language Disorder. We provide Occupational, Speech, and ABA Therapy (children 1-6 years old) all in one place.
![Photo of Celine Saulnier - Neurodevelopmental Assessment & Consulting Svc, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef4ab58-b176-4297-8bd7-72df2f6bfdc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neurodevelopmental Assessment & Consulting Svc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the diagnostic evaluation of individuals with autism and related disorders from infancy throughout adulthood. I specialize in the earliest emerging symptoms in infancy, as well as more subtle symptoms that can be overlooked in adolescents and adults, particularly females. My recommendations are focused on optimizing outcome based on individual needs. I am also an adjunct faculty member at Emory University where I teach an advanced autism course, and I conduct teaching, training, and consulting for professionals, academic grants, and clinical trials worldwide.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the diagnostic evaluation of individuals with autism and related disorders from infancy throughout adulthood. I specialize in the earliest emerging symptoms in infancy, as well as more subtle symptoms that can be overlooked in adolescents and adults, particularly females. My recommendations are focused on optimizing outcome based on individual needs. I am also an adjunct faculty member at Emory University where I teach an advanced autism course, and I conduct teaching, training, and consulting for professionals, academic grants, and clinical trials worldwide.
![Photo of Rebecca Meline, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4632dbd-02bf-46bc-b4fa-116f44eb0849/2/320x400.jpeg)
Does your child struggle to communicate feelings, misunderstand social cues, or manage intense emotions? Is your child impulsive, has trouble completing tasks, or suffers from sensory overload? These challenges can leave them feeling isolated, dampen their self-esteem, and strain their family and peer systems. If you or your child are looking for a compassionate and skilled therapist to navigate the journey of being or feeling different, I am here to help. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating the unique challenges associated with developmental differences, such as ADHD and Autism.
Does your child struggle to communicate feelings, misunderstand social cues, or manage intense emotions? Is your child impulsive, has trouble completing tasks, or suffers from sensory overload? These challenges can leave them feeling isolated, dampen their self-esteem, and strain their family and peer systems. If you or your child are looking for a compassionate and skilled therapist to navigate the journey of being or feeling different, I am here to help. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating the unique challenges associated with developmental differences, such as ADHD and Autism.
![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.
My practice involves a balance of assessment and therapy services. I specialize in assessment for learning differences and developmental delays. For over 20 years, I have worked with children and families facing the challenges of learning disabilities, attention problems, autism spectrum disorders, seizure and tic disorders, and a variety of developmental disabilities. I work with individuals and families who have additional pressures that are involved when a family member has chronic medical illness or disability concerns. I am passionate about helping clients adjust to the these challenges, with a focus on maintaining healthy relationships and routines for all family members.
My practice involves a balance of assessment and therapy services. I specialize in assessment for learning differences and developmental delays. For over 20 years, I have worked with children and families facing the challenges of learning disabilities, attention problems, autism spectrum disorders, seizure and tic disorders, and a variety of developmental disabilities. I work with individuals and families who have additional pressures that are involved when a family member has chronic medical illness or disability concerns. I am passionate about helping clients adjust to the these challenges, with a focus on maintaining healthy relationships and routines for all family members.
![Photo of Dawn Ilardi - Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Center, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1deca1e8-cbe1-4976-9d7c-102001a9ed45/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Center supports children between infancy to young adulthood. We provide developmental and neuropsychological assessment, along with consultation and family support. We are a group of pediatric neuropsychologists who have extensive experience working with neurodevelopmental disorders, including learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual disorders, and autism, as well as typically developmental children. Our group has specialized expertise with pediatric medical conditions, such as epilepsy, genetic disorders, congenital heart disease, transplant, and congenital/acquired brain abnormalities.
The Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Center supports children between infancy to young adulthood. We provide developmental and neuropsychological assessment, along with consultation and family support. We are a group of pediatric neuropsychologists who have extensive experience working with neurodevelopmental disorders, including learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual disorders, and autism, as well as typically developmental children. Our group has specialized expertise with pediatric medical conditions, such as epilepsy, genetic disorders, congenital heart disease, transplant, and congenital/acquired brain abnormalities.
![Photo of Laronta Upson Rush, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d5d648-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist with 10 years of experience in evaluating children, adolescents and adults related to a number of concerns including ADHD, adult ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, nonverbal learning disorders, psychiatric disorders, developmental disabilities, college entrance and accommodations, and academic testing. I also have extensive experience working with children in schools and a broad base of knowledge of special education procedures and other school-based intervention services. I conduct psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their families to help strengthen the family connection, reduce conflict at home/school, and enhance effective communication and problem-solving.
I am a licensed psychologist with 10 years of experience in evaluating children, adolescents and adults related to a number of concerns including ADHD, adult ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, nonverbal learning disorders, psychiatric disorders, developmental disabilities, college entrance and accommodations, and academic testing. I also have extensive experience working with children in schools and a broad base of knowledge of special education procedures and other school-based intervention services. I conduct psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their families to help strengthen the family connection, reduce conflict at home/school, and enhance effective communication and problem-solving.
![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
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.
![Photo of Samantha Dunn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9aa9f268-8cd9-4f46-8e73-46128c59993c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I support individuals and families navigate the unique experiences of Autism.
Life can be complicated - if you've been experiencing major life changes, stress, anxiety, or feelings of isolation, you're not alone. Whether you're dealing with parenting difficulties or the strain of daily life, it would be my pleasure to support you on your journey.
Additionally, I support individuals and families navigate the unique experiences of Autism.
Life can be complicated - if you've been experiencing major life changes, stress, anxiety, or feelings of isolation, you're not alone. Whether you're dealing with parenting difficulties or the strain of daily life, it would be my pleasure to support you on your journey.
See more therapy options for Stone Mountain
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Stone Mountain
- Avondale Estates
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- Decatur
- Lawrenceville
- Lilburn
- Lithonia
- Norcross
- Peachtree Corners
- Sandy Springs
- Snellville
- Tucker
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.