Autism Therapists in Palos Heights, IL

Photo of Seena Abed, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Seena Abed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Specializing in the care of children and adolescents, I focus on addressing issues such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioral problems, and stress management.
As a dedicated clinician, my primary goal is to guide you through life's challenges and help you develop effective coping strategies. With extensive experience in implementing behavioral plans and designated interventions, I have worked with clients facing a range of intellectual disabilities, including autism. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives tailored and effective support.
Specializing in the care of children and adolescents, I focus on addressing issues such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioral problems, and stress management.
As a dedicated clinician, my primary goal is to guide you through life's challenges and help you develop effective coping strategies. With extensive experience in implementing behavioral plans and designated interventions, I have worked with clients facing a range of intellectual disabilities, including autism. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives tailored and effective support.
(708) 815-8291 View (708) 815-8291
Photo of Susan Ryan-Michalak, MA, LCPC, NCC, LBSI, Counselor
Susan Ryan-Michalak
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, LBSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
I have serviced Autism/ Learning Disabilities/Special Needs population for 16 years, along with social issues, and bullying.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
I have serviced Autism/ Learning Disabilities/Special Needs population for 16 years, along with social issues, and bullying.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
(773) 796-4048 View (773) 796-4048
Photo of Shannon M Mannix - Shannon Mannix Services Inc, MSW, LCSW, type 73, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mannix Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, type 73
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
I specialize in working with young kids, teens, and adults struggling with a variety of issues; Depression, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, behavioral issues, sleeping difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Chronic pain, Medical issues, Grief/Loss.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
I specialize in working with young kids, teens, and adults struggling with a variety of issues; Depression, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, behavioral issues, sleeping difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Chronic pain, Medical issues, Grief/Loss.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
(708) 315-6302 View (708) 315-6302
Photo of Virginia Nachtwey, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Nachtwey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
, codependency, anger management, sleep issues, divorce, autism, school issues and 504/IEP advocacy.
Are you feeling more anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or are just not where you want to be? At S-R&R Counseling, I can create a safe, comfortable, and inviting environment so you can process emotional stressors, and transitions. My team and I work to treat anxiety, depression, anger, and phobias. We help children, adolescents, adults, couples and family. My team also specializes in EMDR , ERP, DBT(in person and virtually) and exposure therapy to treat trauma/PTSD phobias and fear. In addition, sleep and eating addiction. If you are feeling stuck and can't get past a fear, let us help you.
, codependency, anger management, sleep issues, divorce, autism, school issues and 504/IEP advocacy.
Are you feeling more anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or are just not where you want to be? At S-R&R Counseling, I can create a safe, comfortable, and inviting environment so you can process emotional stressors, and transitions. My team and I work to treat anxiety, depression, anger, and phobias. We help children, adolescents, adults, couples and family. My team also specializes in EMDR , ERP, DBT(in person and virtually) and exposure therapy to treat trauma/PTSD phobias and fear. In addition, sleep and eating addiction. If you are feeling stuck and can't get past a fear, let us help you.
(708) 729-6754 View (708) 729-6754
Photo of Donna Kilgallon, LCPC, Counselor
Donna Kilgallon
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
I have been working as a counselor in the mental health field for 30+ years. There have been many diverse opportunities where I've provided counseling and crisis stabilization for children, families, adolescents and young adults. My passion is working with children and adolescents. Also assisting families with building communication and empowering them as a whole to find happiness and wellbeing.
I have been working as a counselor in the mental health field for 30+ years. There have been many diverse opportunities where I've provided counseling and crisis stabilization for children, families, adolescents and young adults. My passion is working with children and adolescents. Also assisting families with building communication and empowering them as a whole to find happiness and wellbeing.
(708) 315-2546 View (708) 315-2546
Photo of Caroline Larson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Larson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Caroline Larson is a second-year graduate student at Marquette University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. She has been working in the mental heath field since the start of 2021. She has experience working with adolescents and women with substance use, eating disorders, and mood disorders. She approaches therapy from a humanistic and client-centered perspective. Caroline is dedicated to providing an empathetic and individualized approach for her clients. Under the supervision of experienced clinicians, she is committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care.
Caroline Larson is a second-year graduate student at Marquette University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. She has been working in the mental heath field since the start of 2021. She has experience working with adolescents and women with substance use, eating disorders, and mood disorders. She approaches therapy from a humanistic and client-centered perspective. Caroline is dedicated to providing an empathetic and individualized approach for her clients. Under the supervision of experienced clinicians, she is committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care.
(708) 274-4484 View (708) 274-4484
Photo of Courtney Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Are you beginning to notice a change in your child(ren)'s behavior and/or attitude recently? Do you feel that a change needs to be made but are unsure of how therapy can help or how to tackle the next steps? Sometimes a child's shift in behavior can occur slowly over a course of time while other children seem to shift overnight. Whether your child is experiencing tantrums, difficulty falling asleep, seeming suddenly more irritable, using increase negative self- talk, adjusting to new life events, or appears to be "grumpy" all of the time- I am here to help you better understand age appropriate development through the life span.
Are you beginning to notice a change in your child(ren)'s behavior and/or attitude recently? Do you feel that a change needs to be made but are unsure of how therapy can help or how to tackle the next steps? Sometimes a child's shift in behavior can occur slowly over a course of time while other children seem to shift overnight. Whether your child is experiencing tantrums, difficulty falling asleep, seeming suddenly more irritable, using increase negative self- talk, adjusting to new life events, or appears to be "grumpy" all of the time- I am here to help you better understand age appropriate development through the life span.
(708) 578-6372 View (708) 578-6372
Photo of Maricarmella A Baker, LCPC, Counselor
Maricarmella A Baker
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Therapy is a journey that can be wonderful, exhausting, and awakening all at the same time. I am here to walk with you, to help navigate the challenges in life that stand in the way of healing. My therapy focuses on providing compassionate, personalized care using a warm, emphatic and interactive approach to counseling.
Therapy is a journey that can be wonderful, exhausting, and awakening all at the same time. I am here to walk with you, to help navigate the challenges in life that stand in the way of healing. My therapy focuses on providing compassionate, personalized care using a warm, emphatic and interactive approach to counseling.
(708) 480-9630 View (708) 480-9630

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kirsten Leininger, MS, CADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kirsten Leininger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a focus on complex trauma, PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, emotional neglect/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and substance use. As a DIR Practitioner, I work with neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, focusing on regulation, engagement, and self-awareness through developmental, individual differences, and relationship-based lenses.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a focus on complex trauma, PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, emotional neglect/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and substance use. As a DIR Practitioner, I work with neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, focusing on regulation, engagement, and self-awareness through developmental, individual differences, and relationship-based lenses.
(708) 729-6863 View (708) 729-6863
Photo of Kathryn Vuckovich, MSP, MCCMH, BCBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathryn Vuckovich
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSP, MCCMH, BCBA
Verified Verified
Palos Park, IL 60464
I am a BCBA and therapist with an extensive history working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, burnout, autism, ID/DD, parent trainings, and dual diagnosis across all age spans in varying environments: inpatient, residential, day programming, school, prison, private clinic & tele-health.
Life will always have difficulties. Learning how to navigate, manage and overcome those obstacles is part of each persons life journey. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their personal goals, their barriers, and establish plans to address individualized needs that target their unique challenges. Creating a positive therapeutic relationship lets clients experience a safe environment to explore their identity and establish positive practices. I have been working in social services since 2003, and work to meet my clients where they are and move forward to reach their goals.
I am a BCBA and therapist with an extensive history working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, burnout, autism, ID/DD, parent trainings, and dual diagnosis across all age spans in varying environments: inpatient, residential, day programming, school, prison, private clinic & tele-health.
Life will always have difficulties. Learning how to navigate, manage and overcome those obstacles is part of each persons life journey. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their personal goals, their barriers, and establish plans to address individualized needs that target their unique challenges. Creating a positive therapeutic relationship lets clients experience a safe environment to explore their identity and establish positive practices. I have been working in social services since 2003, and work to meet my clients where they are and move forward to reach their goals.
(708) 576-4621 View (708) 576-4621
Photo of Rachael Anderson, MA, LPC, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629
My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, grief and loss, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I have a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, & evidence-based interventions. Along with my skills I use warmth, professionalism, humor, and expertise into my practice. I provide unconditional acceptance as clients share their story with me. I provide each client with individualized treatment plans to best support their needs while considering the complexity of their individual identity. I work to create a collaborative environment from a strength-based approach to help identify goals rooted in client’s values and continue to develop areas of focus as they make progress throughout our sessions.
My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, grief and loss, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I have a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, & evidence-based interventions. Along with my skills I use warmth, professionalism, humor, and expertise into my practice. I provide unconditional acceptance as clients share their story with me. I provide each client with individualized treatment plans to best support their needs while considering the complexity of their individual identity. I work to create a collaborative environment from a strength-based approach to help identify goals rooted in client’s values and continue to develop areas of focus as they make progress throughout our sessions.
(872) 250-4518 View (872) 250-4518
Photo of Elisa Maurer, MA, LCPC
Elisa Maurer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in working with clients who experience: PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar, Addictions, Intimacy concerns and Trauma. I take pride in exploring and affirming your gender identity in a safe and comfortable space. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with people to successfully overcome their struggles and insecurities and learn life-changing coping skills. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples who want to get their lives back on track. I also support those in the helping fields who are experiencing burn out.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in working with clients who experience: PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar, Addictions, Intimacy concerns and Trauma. I take pride in exploring and affirming your gender identity in a safe and comfortable space. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with people to successfully overcome their struggles and insecurities and learn life-changing coping skills. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples who want to get their lives back on track. I also support those in the helping fields who are experiencing burn out.
(224) 268-9383 View (224) 268-9383
Photo of Kasey Zaremba, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kasey Zaremba
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Hello there, thank you for taking the first step into your healing journey! I know it wasn't easy! Hopefully I can help! I'm a compassionate clinical therapist with a diverse background in supporting individuals of all ages, including those with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief/loss, autism (ASD), intellectual/developmental disabilities, as well as clients experiencing chronic pain. With a focus on both children and adults, I bring several years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health care across inpatient, therapeutic day schools, PHP/IOP, and outpatient settings.
Hello there, thank you for taking the first step into your healing journey! I know it wasn't easy! Hopefully I can help! I'm a compassionate clinical therapist with a diverse background in supporting individuals of all ages, including those with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief/loss, autism (ASD), intellectual/developmental disabilities, as well as clients experiencing chronic pain. With a focus on both children and adults, I bring several years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health care across inpatient, therapeutic day schools, PHP/IOP, and outpatient settings.
(708) 847-3767 View (708) 847-3767
Photo of Lisa Kuban, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Kuban
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Palos Hills, IL 60465
I hold certifications in autism disorders and crisis/trauma disorders.
I believe that therapy should be a journey that my clients and I travel together. I like to work collaboratively with them to empower them and teach them tools and resources they can use to help them improve their quality of life. I want everyone I see to feel comfortable so I try to provide a welcoming space free of judgment. I am passionate about caring for each and every individual who comes to me for care. I come from a more personal approach as opposed to a clinical one.
I hold certifications in autism disorders and crisis/trauma disorders.
I believe that therapy should be a journey that my clients and I travel together. I like to work collaboratively with them to empower them and teach them tools and resources they can use to help them improve their quality of life. I want everyone I see to feel comfortable so I try to provide a welcoming space free of judgment. I am passionate about caring for each and every individual who comes to me for care. I come from a more personal approach as opposed to a clinical one.
(708) 292-4192 View (708) 292-4192
Photo of Reenee M Jackson-Hill - Children\'s Advocate LLC, BCBA, MA, LCSW
Children\'s Advocate LLC
BCBA, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of error-less learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you are struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of error-less learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you are struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
(844) 986-2566 View (844) 986-2566
Photo of Reenee M Hill - Children's Advocate LLC, Bcba
Children's Advocate LLC
Bcba
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of errorless learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you're struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of errorless learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you're struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
(708) 265-3350 View (708) 265-3350
Bradford Czochara
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in child and adult issues related to neurodevelopmental disorders ( Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and neuropsychological issues (attention issues, memory issues).
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
I specialize in child and adult issues related to neurodevelopmental disorders ( Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and neuropsychological issues (attention issues, memory issues).
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
(815) 261-4035 View (815) 261-4035
Photo of Joshua Boyd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
(773) 830-3374 View (773) 830-3374
Photo of Audrey Gaines - Peace Through Hope Therapy, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Peace Through Hope Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
If you are ready to take the next step in your mental health well-being, I will be right there with you. I will help you if you have anxiety, stress, anger, or depression. If you are a parent struggling with children, adolescent, or teen issues, I can help! Hi! I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and teenagers. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief and Christian counseling. I am certified in domestic violence. I offer a comfortable, person-centered environment and will meet you where you are at.
If you are ready to take the next step in your mental health well-being, I will be right there with you. I will help you if you have anxiety, stress, anger, or depression. If you are a parent struggling with children, adolescent, or teen issues, I can help! Hi! I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and teenagers. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief and Christian counseling. I am certified in domestic violence. I offer a comfortable, person-centered environment and will meet you where you are at.
(708) 847-5663 View (708) 847-5663
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698

See more therapy options for Palos Heights

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.