Autism Therapists in Mililani, HI
![Photo of Lyann Sugai-Kauhini, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f96eefb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lyann Sugai-Kauhini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789
My experience includes working with couples and families to improve their relationships; individuals on coping strategies; children who have Autism; children who have been physically and sexually abused; providing stress management, parenting education, anger management and domestic violence education.
Are you feeling sad, frustrated, or stressed? Are you tired of your problems weighing you down? Are you having difficulties in your relationship? Therapy can enhance self-growth and self-actualization. Let's work together to overcome barriers and improve your life to an optimistic outlook.
My experience includes working with couples and families to improve their relationships; individuals on coping strategies; children who have Autism; children who have been physically and sexually abused; providing stress management, parenting education, anger management and domestic violence education.
Are you feeling sad, frustrated, or stressed? Are you tired of your problems weighing you down? Are you having difficulties in your relationship? Therapy can enhance self-growth and self-actualization. Let's work together to overcome barriers and improve your life to an optimistic outlook.
![Photo of Dr. Rhesa R. Kaulia, PhD, MFT, CSAC, EMDR, CPTT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11e2c81e-6bd1-4011-bde2-f782695ed5e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rhesa R. Kaulia
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, CSAC, EMDR, CPTT
Verified Verified
Mililani, HI 96789
I specialize in working with challenging issues, including: multicultural and indigenous contexts, struggles with faith, relational dynamics, Autism Spectrum and ADHD, complex trauma, divorce and uncoupling, coparenting, reunification and blended families.
Aloha e! My practice, Grace Works, LLC, is a private Counseling Center providing services to individuals, couples and families. My experiences span a number of environments including mental institutions, prisons, drug programs, in-homes, schools, churches, non-profit organizations, courts, and the military. All treatment that I provide endeavors to extend grace and aloha to the recipient(s). It is my firm belief that through this type of extension, true healing and lasting change can take place.
I specialize in working with challenging issues, including: multicultural and indigenous contexts, struggles with faith, relational dynamics, Autism Spectrum and ADHD, complex trauma, divorce and uncoupling, coparenting, reunification and blended families.
Aloha e! My practice, Grace Works, LLC, is a private Counseling Center providing services to individuals, couples and families. My experiences span a number of environments including mental institutions, prisons, drug programs, in-homes, schools, churches, non-profit organizations, courts, and the military. All treatment that I provide endeavors to extend grace and aloha to the recipient(s). It is my firm belief that through this type of extension, true healing and lasting change can take place.
![Photo of Noe Kamalani, MEd, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d63f76df-65e2-4cd7-a6dc-bf93b2b15a34/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about working with children and families who are navigating behavioral challenges. I value a collaborative treatment approach that considers the strengths of everyone involved in order to support lasting change.
I am passionate about working with children and families who are navigating behavioral challenges. I value a collaborative treatment approach that considers the strengths of everyone involved in order to support lasting change.
![Photo of Maile Kimura Ho, NCC, CSAC, LMHC, LMFT, BCBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fed4640-85f8-4b95-9b37-e6868ef9a9de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maile Kimura Ho
Marriage & Family Therapist, NCC, CSAC, LMHC, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Mililani, HI 96789
Hello! Thank you for stopping by. Taking the steps to identify the desire for support and to reach out to someone to seek guidance takes a lot of courage. Counseling can be intimidating; however, my goal is to provide a space that embodies safety, comfort, and growth. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one which requires active participation from all parties. My methodologies will vary based on individual needs.
Hello! Thank you for stopping by. Taking the steps to identify the desire for support and to reach out to someone to seek guidance takes a lot of courage. Counseling can be intimidating; however, my goal is to provide a space that embodies safety, comfort, and growth. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one which requires active participation from all parties. My methodologies will vary based on individual needs.
![Photo of Rachelle Fong, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f2bbd9d-d3e9-4df8-8f2b-a57953466333/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachelle Fong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specializing in helping people with Anxiety, Depressed Mood, Trauma, and helping those going through Stressful Life Transitions. Life can be tough and sometimes we need to stop and have a breather. If you are struggling with coping through life's stressors, I am here for you. I'll help you to process what's going on for you and to help you to achieve your personal counseling goals. The goal of Exhale Therapy Hawaii is to provide professional and convenient online counseling services to individuals, couples and families throughout the state of Hawaii. Everyone deserves to have access to quality counseling services.
Specializing in helping people with Anxiety, Depressed Mood, Trauma, and helping those going through Stressful Life Transitions. Life can be tough and sometimes we need to stop and have a breather. If you are struggling with coping through life's stressors, I am here for you. I'll help you to process what's going on for you and to help you to achieve your personal counseling goals. The goal of Exhale Therapy Hawaii is to provide professional and convenient online counseling services to individuals, couples and families throughout the state of Hawaii. Everyone deserves to have access to quality counseling services.
![Photo of Melissa Bowen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7479268-44be-4e1b-ae14-5dfe6ea59742/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Melissa Bowen, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I take a more integrative approach to therapy as I find everyone is different and unique and need techniques. My focus is trauma, severe mental illness in adults and children. I have worked mostly with children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma. I have worked with people diagnosed with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and ASD. I have worked with domestic violence survivors, child abuse victims, veterans, relationship issues, grief, and sexual issues.
Hello, my name is Melissa Bowen, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I take a more integrative approach to therapy as I find everyone is different and unique and need techniques. My focus is trauma, severe mental illness in adults and children. I have worked mostly with children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma. I have worked with people diagnosed with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and ASD. I have worked with domestic violence survivors, child abuse victims, veterans, relationship issues, grief, and sexual issues.
![Photo of Donna Nazarchyk, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e71d7f3-8823-419f-a21c-3122850c1f62/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aloha! I was born and raised on the island of Oahu. I hold licenses in HI, FL, and CO. I practice evidence-based modalities and am also a BCBA. I am Filipino, so I also understand how important cultural perspectives can be. I work with clients that fully participate and want to put in effort for a change! My perspective is from an eclectic Cognitive Behavior Model, combined with Solution Focused Therapy, ACT, and ABA, that recognizes the multiple aspects and levels within the human experience with the goal of individualization or wholeness.
Aloha! I was born and raised on the island of Oahu. I hold licenses in HI, FL, and CO. I practice evidence-based modalities and am also a BCBA. I am Filipino, so I also understand how important cultural perspectives can be. I work with clients that fully participate and want to put in effort for a change! My perspective is from an eclectic Cognitive Behavior Model, combined with Solution Focused Therapy, ACT, and ABA, that recognizes the multiple aspects and levels within the human experience with the goal of individualization or wholeness.
![Photo of Jessica Brazil - Mindful Living Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c844c2e1-30c0-4e89-ac3b-02f074d5dbb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Living Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789
Offering video therapy sessions. Life is a journey. Sometimes at peaks and others valleys. In times of struggle, compassionate, effective therapy can help. If you're experiencing a life transition, struggling with isolation, depression, trauma, anxiety, sleep, having a hard time overcoming a life challenge, exploring spirituality or deeper meaning to life, feeling overly sensitive, experiencing relating challenges, struggling with purpose/direction, dealing with anxiety, communication problems, parenting, struggling with substance misuse, or wanting to connect more deeply to self or others, you are not alone. We are here to help.
Offering video therapy sessions. Life is a journey. Sometimes at peaks and others valleys. In times of struggle, compassionate, effective therapy can help. If you're experiencing a life transition, struggling with isolation, depression, trauma, anxiety, sleep, having a hard time overcoming a life challenge, exploring spirituality or deeper meaning to life, feeling overly sensitive, experiencing relating challenges, struggling with purpose/direction, dealing with anxiety, communication problems, parenting, struggling with substance misuse, or wanting to connect more deeply to self or others, you are not alone. We are here to help.
![Photo of David Linares - Serenity Counseling Services Hawaii, MD, MFT, LCSW, LPCC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a2522d-dd69-4a2d-959f-5b43615bd91f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Counseling Services Hawaii
Counselor, MD, MFT, LCSW, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789
At Serenity we will match you to a specialist who uses cognitive behavioral approaches and evidence-based interventions so you can quickly gain results! Our ideal clients are open to learning & doing small homework assignments to promote change. When you work with us you can expect to feel that you are in control of your emotions and you will feel, more confident, calmer, and of course happier in your life too! We offer automated appointment reminders, three click Telehealth session set up and sessions form 8am to 8pm seven days a week! Let us help you to discover how to live the life you truly want. We are here to help. Call Today!
At Serenity we will match you to a specialist who uses cognitive behavioral approaches and evidence-based interventions so you can quickly gain results! Our ideal clients are open to learning & doing small homework assignments to promote change. When you work with us you can expect to feel that you are in control of your emotions and you will feel, more confident, calmer, and of course happier in your life too! We offer automated appointment reminders, three click Telehealth session set up and sessions form 8am to 8pm seven days a week! Let us help you to discover how to live the life you truly want. We are here to help. Call Today!
![Photo of DarLene Jones, LCMHC, CSAC, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66cae463-1fd4-49f3-80cd-dffe13a2df89/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aloha! Making a decision to attend a counseling session can be very scary! However, counseling can provide an opportunity to stop, reflect, heal, and gain hope in a safe and professional atmosphere. My task as a therapist is to work along side of you to help guide you toward answers you may seek. I believe that all difficulties contain a small seed of opportunity within them and I can support you in clarifying yours while resolving obstacles that may get in the way.
Aloha! Making a decision to attend a counseling session can be very scary! However, counseling can provide an opportunity to stop, reflect, heal, and gain hope in a safe and professional atmosphere. My task as a therapist is to work along side of you to help guide you toward answers you may seek. I believe that all difficulties contain a small seed of opportunity within them and I can support you in clarifying yours while resolving obstacles that may get in the way.
![Photo of Ryan Price, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b526da74-6b67-40a8-86b9-fac91c0e3551/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who aims to assist individuals in navigating all that life throws our way. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings addressing numerous and sometimes coexisting experiences. My client base has expanded across varying levels of care and in lots of different settings including schools, hospitals, private practice, and short-term employee assistance. I have been fortunate to work closely with a multitude of diagnoses in each of these environments.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who aims to assist individuals in navigating all that life throws our way. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings addressing numerous and sometimes coexisting experiences. My client base has expanded across varying levels of care and in lots of different settings including schools, hospitals, private practice, and short-term employee assistance. I have been fortunate to work closely with a multitude of diagnoses in each of these environments.
15 Second Videos
Rachelle Fong
Mindful Living Group
Serenity Counseling Services Hawaii
![Photo of Travis Purdy - IMUA Health Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/477eb404-f7d1-4a6e-b12d-9d88f49d4a6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
IMUA Health Group’s mission is to “Move health forward.” by providing professional, competent, innovative care. We currently have 12 licensed mental health professionals with a variety of experience and expertise to help people with a wide range of physical and/or mental health conditions. Our caring staff will work hard to pair you with a therapist who is a good fit with your personality, therapy preference, and scheduling needs.
IMUA Health Group’s mission is to “Move health forward.” by providing professional, competent, innovative care. We currently have 12 licensed mental health professionals with a variety of experience and expertise to help people with a wide range of physical and/or mental health conditions. Our caring staff will work hard to pair you with a therapist who is a good fit with your personality, therapy preference, and scheduling needs.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Yuki Lei Tanaka-Pabo Ho'omana Counseling Services Llc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e20c090c-ce32-4cf9-ab8b-d6ed233dfc41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yuki Lei Tanaka-Pabo Ho'omana Counseling Services Llc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kapolei, HI 96707 (Online Only)
Aloha, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker on Oahu. I have over 12 years of experience working with individuals, children, families with specialized skills in Crisis Stabilization, Trauma, Grief, Family Conflict, Autism, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Grief, Anger Management, and Relationship conflict. I specialize in the areas listed above, but welcome all. I also offer strength-based therapy, mindfulness forgiveness as opportunities for treatment.
Aloha, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker on Oahu. I have over 12 years of experience working with individuals, children, families with specialized skills in Crisis Stabilization, Trauma, Grief, Family Conflict, Autism, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Grief, Anger Management, and Relationship conflict. I specialize in the areas listed above, but welcome all. I also offer strength-based therapy, mindfulness forgiveness as opportunities for treatment.
![Photo of Monique Gomes - Anonui Health & Wellness Hawaii LLC, MFT, CSAC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47647e9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anonui Health & Wellness Hawaii LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Aiea, HI 96701
"Culturally Sensitive" , Cultural Safety, Cultural Awareness, Mindfulness Practice, Person-Centered, Humanistic, Unconditional Positive Regard, Autism Awareness, Wahine (womens) Group, Guardians of ASD Keiki (children) Group, Self-Care, and Trauma Informed Care.
Aloha Ka Kou, My name is Monique Pualani Anuenue Gomes and I would be honored to provide you with "Culturally Sensitive" therapeutic services. Please allow me to lend my Kokua (help) and walk with you through this therapeutic journey. Being Native Hawaiian born & raised on Oahu island, have experience working with Hawaii's Unique Multicultural population. According to a recent study by Krogstad (2015) Hawaii is home to the Nation's Largest Multiracial American population. This means, 1 out of 4 individuals (24%) identify with multiracial or multicultural ancestry. Therefore, to provide "culturally sensitive" therapeutic services, is to, provide "competent" therapeutic services.
"Culturally Sensitive" , Cultural Safety, Cultural Awareness, Mindfulness Practice, Person-Centered, Humanistic, Unconditional Positive Regard, Autism Awareness, Wahine (womens) Group, Guardians of ASD Keiki (children) Group, Self-Care, and Trauma Informed Care.
Aloha Ka Kou, My name is Monique Pualani Anuenue Gomes and I would be honored to provide you with "Culturally Sensitive" therapeutic services. Please allow me to lend my Kokua (help) and walk with you through this therapeutic journey. Being Native Hawaiian born & raised on Oahu island, have experience working with Hawaii's Unique Multicultural population. According to a recent study by Krogstad (2015) Hawaii is home to the Nation's Largest Multiracial American population. This means, 1 out of 4 individuals (24%) identify with multiracial or multicultural ancestry. Therefore, to provide "culturally sensitive" therapeutic services, is to, provide "competent" therapeutic services.
![Photo of Dr. Noelani Rodrigues, PhD, MSCP, PMH-C, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf1fbaf-191f-4557-aa67-765e5556aad4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Noelani Rodrigues
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707 (Online Only)
I am a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and I also hold certifications in Dream Work, EFT (energy tapping), Jungian Studies, & Soul Collage ®.
Aloha! E Komo Mai! Do you ever feel like you have lost your way - that nothing feels quite right - or that the past seems to be repeating itself? My humanistic view is that we all begin from a place of wholeness, but we sometimes lose belief in ourselves along the way. I have the depth of professional and life experience to see and work with you as a unique individual. Let me be a support and guide as you navigate the journey to your true potential. My expertise includes a broad range of issues including traumas, emotional difficulties, relationship, and coping with life's challenges.
I am a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and I also hold certifications in Dream Work, EFT (energy tapping), Jungian Studies, & Soul Collage ®.
Aloha! E Komo Mai! Do you ever feel like you have lost your way - that nothing feels quite right - or that the past seems to be repeating itself? My humanistic view is that we all begin from a place of wholeness, but we sometimes lose belief in ourselves along the way. I have the depth of professional and life experience to see and work with you as a unique individual. Let me be a support and guide as you navigate the journey to your true potential. My expertise includes a broad range of issues including traumas, emotional difficulties, relationship, and coping with life's challenges.
I have specialized in autism and Asperger's syndrome for 20 years, and my practice is currently limited to individuals who have or are suspected of having an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This can include presenting problems such as anxiety, depression, aggression, compliance issues, which often arise because of difficulties with social communication and inflexible thinking. ASD is often missed in girls and women, because they try harder to fit in, and pretend to be normal. I believe that every person has innate worth and deserves to live in peace.
I have specialized in autism and Asperger's syndrome for 20 years, and my practice is currently limited to individuals who have or are suspected of having an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This can include presenting problems such as anxiety, depression, aggression, compliance issues, which often arise because of difficulties with social communication and inflexible thinking. ASD is often missed in girls and women, because they try harder to fit in, and pretend to be normal. I believe that every person has innate worth and deserves to live in peace.
![Photo of Peggy Karwiel, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fd4728b-f5a4-46a0-b164-34af8b816c8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everything changed with your child's autism diagnosis. In a moment, your clear vision for their future became murky and unknown. And all the plans you’d made were instantly turned upside-down. You try to talk to friends and family about what you’re going through, and they offer well-meaning advice, but they just don't get it. How could they know how isolating and challenging it is to navigate a world that doesn’t understand your or your child’s needs? You want so badly to give your child their best shot at a bright and successful future, but you’re simply not sure how to help them. You don’t think you can do this alone any longer.
Everything changed with your child's autism diagnosis. In a moment, your clear vision for their future became murky and unknown. And all the plans you’d made were instantly turned upside-down. You try to talk to friends and family about what you’re going through, and they offer well-meaning advice, but they just don't get it. How could they know how isolating and challenging it is to navigate a world that doesn’t understand your or your child’s needs? You want so badly to give your child their best shot at a bright and successful future, but you’re simply not sure how to help them. You don’t think you can do this alone any longer.
![Photo of Amy Yang - Xplor Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adaf3545-de35-4204-ae1a-b528eac15575/2/320x400.png)
Amy Yang - Xplor Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aiea, HI 96701
When life gets too heavy, it can seem like no amount of support will help. But, that's exactly when the right kind of help can make the difference. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bereavement, or a difficult transition, I believe you have the power to change within. While working with me, you'll have a supportive and safe environment to share your stories and your experiences in a supportive, non-judgmental space. I have extensive experience working with children and adults, including military families and families with extraordinary children diagnosed with autism.
When life gets too heavy, it can seem like no amount of support will help. But, that's exactly when the right kind of help can make the difference. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bereavement, or a difficult transition, I believe you have the power to change within. While working with me, you'll have a supportive and safe environment to share your stories and your experiences in a supportive, non-judgmental space. I have extensive experience working with children and adults, including military families and families with extraordinary children diagnosed with autism.
![Photo of Sharae Hawelu, LMFT, BCBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbf1e6f7-bfa9-44fc-b363-91a6fe68c7db/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also help with anxiety, depression, grief, codependency, self-esteem, life transitions, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
As a dual-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst, I offer a compassionate and integrated approach that blends therapeutic techniques and behavioral support, ensuring a holistic and personalized path to growth and healing. I create a safe and supportive space where you can openly share and explore your thoughts and experiences as we work together toward meaningful change.
I also help with anxiety, depression, grief, codependency, self-esteem, life transitions, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
As a dual-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst, I offer a compassionate and integrated approach that blends therapeutic techniques and behavioral support, ensuring a holistic and personalized path to growth and healing. I create a safe and supportive space where you can openly share and explore your thoughts and experiences as we work together toward meaningful change.
![Photo of Nozanin Y Yusufbekova - Neurofeedback Clinic of Hawaii, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8c38535-ec38-4b0b-bd84-b56084153932/2/320x400.jpeg)
What conditions can be helped? ADHD, emotional regulation/mood swings, decreased mental functioning (attention, memory, alertness), stress management, sleep problems, depression, anxiety, autism, tension headaches/migraines, chronic pain/fibromyalgia, mild traumatic brain injury (concussions), posttraumatic stress disorder, etc.
Neurofeedback is a safe, non-invasive brain training method. The essence of neurofeedback is self-regulation, teaching the brain to properly regulate itself. Neurofeedback is essentially a brain workout. It trains your brain to be more flexible and resilient. Without pushing it in any specific direction, the neurofeedback system interacts with your central nervous system in a way that improves neural plasticity. A mind that is more flexible adapts and responds quicker and more appropriately to changes in your environment. The more easily your brain adjusts to changes encountered in a normal busy day, the better you feel.
What conditions can be helped? ADHD, emotional regulation/mood swings, decreased mental functioning (attention, memory, alertness), stress management, sleep problems, depression, anxiety, autism, tension headaches/migraines, chronic pain/fibromyalgia, mild traumatic brain injury (concussions), posttraumatic stress disorder, etc.
Neurofeedback is a safe, non-invasive brain training method. The essence of neurofeedback is self-regulation, teaching the brain to properly regulate itself. Neurofeedback is essentially a brain workout. It trains your brain to be more flexible and resilient. Without pushing it in any specific direction, the neurofeedback system interacts with your central nervous system in a way that improves neural plasticity. A mind that is more flexible adapts and responds quicker and more appropriately to changes in your environment. The more easily your brain adjusts to changes encountered in a normal busy day, the better you feel.
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See More TherapistsAutism 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.