Autism Therapists in Hinsdale, IL
![Photo of Rachel Winborn, MFA, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26494c76-31fa-4130-b367-41ff14120707/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel’s creative background lends itself to an intuitive therapeutic practice and her recent training as a Social Worker brings her grounded in the world of each individual she works with. Rachel is an attuned, empathetic listener, who focuses on her clients’ needs. She has experience working with persons with chronic distress, complex PTSD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity ( autism, ADHD, learning differences), faith-based injury/inquiry, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, parenting, family, and relationship issues.
Rachel’s creative background lends itself to an intuitive therapeutic practice and her recent training as a Social Worker brings her grounded in the world of each individual she works with. Rachel is an attuned, empathetic listener, who focuses on her clients’ needs. She has experience working with persons with chronic distress, complex PTSD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity ( autism, ADHD, learning differences), faith-based injury/inquiry, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, parenting, family, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Julie A Peterson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/278baea7-a6fe-4f6e-89d1-f7af0b3d1123/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peterson's other areas of clinical interest include: Adult Children and Parent Relationship Issues, Autism/Asperger's, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Couples Conflict, Depression/Mood Disorders, Life Stage Transitions, Premarital Issues and Counseling, School Issues, Sibling Issues, Transition to Parenthood, Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance Issues.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
Peterson's other areas of clinical interest include: Adult Children and Parent Relationship Issues, Autism/Asperger's, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Couples Conflict, Depression/Mood Disorders, Life Stage Transitions, Premarital Issues and Counseling, School Issues, Sibling Issues, Transition to Parenthood, Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance Issues.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
![Photo of Erin Marek-Krawczyk, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f054853-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a member of the clinical team at TMS Psychological Services for over 10 years. My specialty is in (physical and emotional) trauma and pediatric psychology, including work with chronic medical conditions (and related treatment compliance, as well as pain management). In other therapeutic work with children, adolescents, and their families, I address attention and learning difficulties, mood disorders and anxiety, social and behavioral difficulties, and developmental challenges related to Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I have been a member of the clinical team at TMS Psychological Services for over 10 years. My specialty is in (physical and emotional) trauma and pediatric psychology, including work with chronic medical conditions (and related treatment compliance, as well as pain management). In other therapeutic work with children, adolescents, and their families, I address attention and learning difficulties, mood disorders and anxiety, social and behavioral difficulties, and developmental challenges related to Autism Spectrum Disorders.
![Photo of Jennifer Eileen Hassler, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb793aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Eileen Hassler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
As a social worker in private practice for 25 years, I provide family and individual therapy that allows all clients to feel safe and supported in a therapeutic environment. I work with schools and employers to support and strengthen the individual as well as the family. My diverse professional skills allow me to provide resources in multiple areas of mental health. My areas of concentration are children and adolescents, mood disorders in all ages, developmental delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, eating disorders, clinical assessment and evaluation. I provide clinical support for ages 3 and up.
As a social worker in private practice for 25 years, I provide family and individual therapy that allows all clients to feel safe and supported in a therapeutic environment. I work with schools and employers to support and strengthen the individual as well as the family. My diverse professional skills allow me to provide resources in multiple areas of mental health. My areas of concentration are children and adolescents, mood disorders in all ages, developmental delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, eating disorders, clinical assessment and evaluation. I provide clinical support for ages 3 and up.
![Photo of Kristina Stavroplos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecab45f2-e7e4-474b-a74f-ed90f4bef3d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our team is well-versed in anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, OCD, life transitions and much more.
At Collaborative Skills Therapy (CST), we specialize in skill-based therapy. Our innovative approach incorporates tangible resources in every session, offering concrete tools that promote understanding and cater to individual learning styles. At CST, we don’t just provide therapy; we empower individuals with the visuals and conceptual tools they need to navigate their unique paths to well-being. CST prioritizes ensuring that all clients understand the approach being used in their treatment because clear communication about methodology fosters transparency, trust, and collaboration.
Our team is well-versed in anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, OCD, life transitions and much more.
At Collaborative Skills Therapy (CST), we specialize in skill-based therapy. Our innovative approach incorporates tangible resources in every session, offering concrete tools that promote understanding and cater to individual learning styles. At CST, we don’t just provide therapy; we empower individuals with the visuals and conceptual tools they need to navigate their unique paths to well-being. CST prioritizes ensuring that all clients understand the approach being used in their treatment because clear communication about methodology fosters transparency, trust, and collaboration.
![Photo of Katie Blaha, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bea46233-37fb-415e-98d8-d4234b1f6931/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy can be such an important part of truly understanding who you are and finding effective ways to manage anxiety, stress and life's challenges. I work with teens and adults struggling with eating disorders, body image issues, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and many other concerns. I provide a warm and welcoming space for you to settle in and get comfortable so we can set reasonable goals and get you on the path to feeing better. I understand that everyone is different and has their own unique set of needs and I am happy to work together to find what approach is best for you.
Therapy can be such an important part of truly understanding who you are and finding effective ways to manage anxiety, stress and life's challenges. I work with teens and adults struggling with eating disorders, body image issues, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and many other concerns. I provide a warm and welcoming space for you to settle in and get comfortable so we can set reasonable goals and get you on the path to feeing better. I understand that everyone is different and has their own unique set of needs and I am happy to work together to find what approach is best for you.
![Photo of Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d8caea8-295f-40dd-9083-8f0262ed43e7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Common concerns include: ADHD, Learning Disorders, Behavior Problems, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Brain Injury/Concussions, Emotional Difficulties, Neurological Conditions (e.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
Common concerns include: ADHD, Learning Disorders, Behavior Problems, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Brain Injury/Concussions, Emotional Difficulties, Neurological Conditions (e.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
![Photo of Corinne Serra Smith, EdD, LCPC, NCSP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97accf7d-b3c4-4477-a737-a2a83f210814/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
![Photo of Ashley Merath - Carlson Counseling Connection, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0463cfa-0289-4184-9e25-eb500bdc4554/4/320x400.jpeg)
Carlson Counseling Connection
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521 (Online Only)
Are you going through life transitions? Difficulties with peer and/or romantic relationships? Are you lacking motivation? Struggling to cope and overcome your anxiety and/or depression? Or, are you someone diagnosed with Autism or ADHD? Have you experienced trauma or have low- self-esteem? We can work through it together!
Are you going through life transitions? Difficulties with peer and/or romantic relationships? Are you lacking motivation? Struggling to cope and overcome your anxiety and/or depression? Or, are you someone diagnosed with Autism or ADHD? Have you experienced trauma or have low- self-esteem? We can work through it together!
![Photo of Sarah Kelder, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74151b9a-01b2-445a-a452-e42d0bbf668d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sarah Kelder is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. She believes in a holistic, mind, body, and spirit approach to mental health and uses innovative and body-based methods to accelerate change and reduce distress. She is passionate about helping people relieve unnecessary suffering and find their joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Throughout her career she has provided individual, group, and family psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults and has provided psychotherapy and case management to children.
Dr. Sarah Kelder is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. She believes in a holistic, mind, body, and spirit approach to mental health and uses innovative and body-based methods to accelerate change and reduce distress. She is passionate about helping people relieve unnecessary suffering and find their joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Throughout her career she has provided individual, group, and family psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults and has provided psychotherapy and case management to children.
![Photo of Margaret Engel, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b6f18fc-5af1-4a9d-b2db-12b67ae80748/4/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Engel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
15 Second Videos
Katie Blaha
Liz Vohasek
Jose Negrete
![Photo of Jessica Poncer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cf4c209-ec26-4a27-98dc-580fb19421e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be tough! Between school, work, and other life transitions and changes, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. You may be reading this thinking that there is nowhere to turn. You may feel alone and be struggling to express yourself and your feelings effectively. It takes great courage to reach out for help and being here is the first step! Therapy is a place where you can not only come when things are tough, but also when things are going well. No matter what is going on in your life, I am here to help you find your voice.
Life can be tough! Between school, work, and other life transitions and changes, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. You may be reading this thinking that there is nowhere to turn. You may feel alone and be struggling to express yourself and your feelings effectively. It takes great courage to reach out for help and being here is the first step! Therapy is a place where you can not only come when things are tough, but also when things are going well. No matter what is going on in your life, I am here to help you find your voice.
![Photo of Liz Vohasek, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40cffda3-e3c5-43ce-aed8-8c2df6e9cc44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Vohasek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Reaching out to a therapist for help can be scary. As someone who has been on both sides of the couch, I understand firsthand how overwhelming the process can be. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported through your mental health journey! I incorporate compassion, empathy, humor, and understanding into every session. I also have a therapy bunny, named Benny, who loves to jump into the laps of clients and beg for attention. I want you to look forward to your sessions, and I am ready to create a therapeutic bond with you.
Reaching out to a therapist for help can be scary. As someone who has been on both sides of the couch, I understand firsthand how overwhelming the process can be. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported through your mental health journey! I incorporate compassion, empathy, humor, and understanding into every session. I also have a therapy bunny, named Benny, who loves to jump into the laps of clients and beg for attention. I want you to look forward to your sessions, and I am ready to create a therapeutic bond with you.
![Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5292c9de-7673-4aea-be21-9a357368b291/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
![Photo of Nicole Lesser, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f59a176-f0c0-4a75-b779-be1e287c4067/2/320x400.png)
Are you overwhelmed from school, work, home life? Wearing multiple hats can be exhausting. I can teach you various skills to reduce that stress as we navigate life transitions. My goal is to provide a safe space for you as we work together to build a meaningful relationship. Lets set goals to help you succeed!
Are you overwhelmed from school, work, home life? Wearing multiple hats can be exhausting. I can teach you various skills to reduce that stress as we navigate life transitions. My goal is to provide a safe space for you as we work together to build a meaningful relationship. Lets set goals to help you succeed!
![Photo of Nicole Massey-Hastings, PsyD, LCP, PMH-C, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1a0e33f-e2a9-44da-b45c-96432b8923f3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Massey-Hastings
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting change and resilience. I am results-oriented. Many clients and parents report significant change in 4-8 sessions.I work with clients from many different walks of life and provide comprehensive counseling services for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. My approach is collaborative, understanding, and caring, as well as evidence-based. I use a state-of-the art outcome assessment to ensure that your counseling is effective and individualized. Please see my website regarding my exclusive approach for families: The Harmonizing Your Home Program.
My goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting change and resilience. I am results-oriented. Many clients and parents report significant change in 4-8 sessions.I work with clients from many different walks of life and provide comprehensive counseling services for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. My approach is collaborative, understanding, and caring, as well as evidence-based. I use a state-of-the art outcome assessment to ensure that your counseling is effective and individualized. Please see my website regarding my exclusive approach for families: The Harmonizing Your Home Program.
![Photo of Paula K Brown, MS, LCPC, CADC, Mediato, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56fb91fe-30de-4722-bddb-7440a1f665b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few.
I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few.
I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
![Photo of Amy Jeffers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/faeb7846-19b1-4132-a564-1ab21a1d70e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Jeffers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My ideal client is anyone willing to come to counseling and be open to the process! Regardless of where a client may be starting from or what they’re hoping to accomplish, I believe that anyone who is willing to show up and engage in the therapeutic process can benefit, and I am happy to guide and support them on their journey. I believe I would be an especially good fit for those clients who want to learn more about themselves and the “why” behind their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts; hope to develop a deeper, more genuine connection with themselves and others; and can appreciate some gentle challenging when appropriate.
My ideal client is anyone willing to come to counseling and be open to the process! Regardless of where a client may be starting from or what they’re hoping to accomplish, I believe that anyone who is willing to show up and engage in the therapeutic process can benefit, and I am happy to guide and support them on their journey. I believe I would be an especially good fit for those clients who want to learn more about themselves and the “why” behind their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts; hope to develop a deeper, more genuine connection with themselves and others; and can appreciate some gentle challenging when appropriate.
![Photo of Bonnie Estensen - Guided Path Psychological Services, PsyD, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6ccc2f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Guided Path Psychological Services
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
![Photo of Jose Negrete, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6b73c0-aba5-44ff-bb61-d85911e95ea0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am delighted you found me here on Psychology Today. My ideal client comes from many different walks of life - children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My ideal client is looking for change and a therapist that is going to "shoot straight" with them and do more than just nod their head in agreement. My ideal client is looking for direction and change in their lives and wants a partner in change. I work with my ideal client on anxiety, major depression, trauma, couples counseling, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional-defiant disorder (ODD), and substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I am delighted you found me here on Psychology Today. My ideal client comes from many different walks of life - children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My ideal client is looking for change and a therapist that is going to "shoot straight" with them and do more than just nod their head in agreement. My ideal client is looking for direction and change in their lives and wants a partner in change. I work with my ideal client on anxiety, major depression, trauma, couples counseling, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional-defiant disorder (ODD), and substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
See more therapy options for Hinsdale
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Hinsdale
- Brookfield
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- Downers Grove
- Elmhurst
- La Grange
- Lombard
- Oak Brook
- Oakbrook Terrace
- Riverside
- Western Springs
- Westmont
- Woodridge
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.