Autism Therapists in Western Springs, IL

Photo of Meg Herr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Herr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Parenting challenges, Conduct/Behavior management, School refusal,Women’s Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Skills, Bereavement, Divorce, Adoption, Life transitions, School Motivation, and Executive Functioning Skills using research based interventions.
As you navigate the path to seeking support, I commend you for taking the courageous first step towards healing and self-discovery. I understand the significance of this journey and I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professionalism. I specialize in a broad spectrum of mental health issues. Whether you are an adult facing personal challenges, or a parent seeking support for your child, I am here to offer guidance, support, and the tools you need to thrive. Together, we will explore your experiences, address your concerns, and celebrate your successes.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Parenting challenges, Conduct/Behavior management, School refusal,Women’s Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Skills, Bereavement, Divorce, Adoption, Life transitions, School Motivation, and Executive Functioning Skills using research based interventions.
As you navigate the path to seeking support, I commend you for taking the courageous first step towards healing and self-discovery. I understand the significance of this journey and I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professionalism. I specialize in a broad spectrum of mental health issues. Whether you are an adult facing personal challenges, or a parent seeking support for your child, I am here to offer guidance, support, and the tools you need to thrive. Together, we will explore your experiences, address your concerns, and celebrate your successes.
(708) 694-8756 View (708) 694-8756
Nicole Shannon Christen
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
I have helped families with adults and teens with disabilities to solve problems and meet their goals. I am experienced with treating challenging behaviors and teaching critical skills. Some skills I have assisted with: self management, mindfulness, activities of daily living, problem solving, executive functioning, job skills, community safety, and social skills.
I have helped families with adults and teens with disabilities to solve problems and meet their goals. I am experienced with treating challenging behaviors and teaching critical skills. Some skills I have assisted with: self management, mindfulness, activities of daily living, problem solving, executive functioning, job skills, community safety, and social skills.
(708) 722-8105 View (708) 722-8105
Photo of Samantha Dunne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Dunne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I specialize in working with teens & young adults. My specialties include stress, anxiety, anger, depression, self-esteem, emotional regulation, procrastination/motivation, & relationship issues. I also have a great deal of experience working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events in their lives. I use various strategies such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Direct Feedback, Trauma Informed Care, Exposure Therapy, Skills Based Approach, Stages of Change, & Motivational Interviewing.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I specialize in working with teens & young adults. My specialties include stress, anxiety, anger, depression, self-esteem, emotional regulation, procrastination/motivation, & relationship issues. I also have a great deal of experience working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events in their lives. I use various strategies such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Direct Feedback, Trauma Informed Care, Exposure Therapy, Skills Based Approach, Stages of Change, & Motivational Interviewing.
(630) 506-3906 View (630) 506-3906
Photo of Christy Poli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Poli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
My goal as a therapist is to help you reach your fullest potential. I specialize in therapeutic interventions which help alleviate your emotional challenges. I create awareness through an integrative approach utilizing a variety of modalities that best fit your needs. I love working with children, teens, & adults! I treat clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, parenting concerns, relationship issues & infidelity. I utilize CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Strength Based, and Trauma Focused strategies to help clients meet their treatment goals.
My goal as a therapist is to help you reach your fullest potential. I specialize in therapeutic interventions which help alleviate your emotional challenges. I create awareness through an integrative approach utilizing a variety of modalities that best fit your needs. I love working with children, teens, & adults! I treat clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, parenting concerns, relationship issues & infidelity. I utilize CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Strength Based, and Trauma Focused strategies to help clients meet their treatment goals.
(630) 506-3906 View (630) 506-3906
Photo of Carole Mestousis, LCPC, Counselor
Carole Mestousis
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
The numerous roles that women fulfill in today’s society can lead to many personal challenges. As a licensed therapist, school counselor, and mother, I provide compassionate and effective therapy services to support and empower women to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live authentic, fulfilling lives.
The numerous roles that women fulfill in today’s society can lead to many personal challenges. As a licensed therapist, school counselor, and mother, I provide compassionate and effective therapy services to support and empower women to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live authentic, fulfilling lives.
View

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel Winborn, MFA, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Winborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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.
(630) 446-6692 View (630) 446-6692
Photo of John Paul Komperda - Integrative Counseling and Psychology, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Heather R. Holzhauser - Heather Holzhauser, LCSW, PLLC, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Holzhauser, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
(708) 613-8708 View (708) 613-8708
Photo of Ashley Merath - Carlson Counseling Connection, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
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!
(872) 274-2678 View (872) 274-2678
Photo of Adam James Selkirk, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam James Selkirk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
I provide assessment of virtually all psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
I provide assessment of virtually all psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
(773) 825-5078 View (773) 825-5078
Photo of Julie A Peterson, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie A Peterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
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.
(847) 802-4058 View (847) 802-4058
Photo of Dr. Katie Hejna, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Katie Hejna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
In addition to therapy, I have expertise conducting neuropsychological assessments, which are intended to answer complex questions related to ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder and more.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
In addition to therapy, I have expertise conducting neuropsychological assessments, which are intended to answer complex questions related to ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder and more.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
(312) 663-8317 View (312) 663-8317
Photo of Katie Blaha, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Blaha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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.
(224) 243-5665 View (224) 243-5665
Photo of Jennifer Eileen Hassler, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(708) 315-7002 View (708) 315-7002
Photo of Kristina Stavroplos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Stavroplos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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.
(847) 503-9464 View (847) 503-9464
Photo of Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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.
(708) 419-2072 View (708) 419-2072
Photo of Angelica Hardman, MA
Angelica Hardman
MA
Verified Verified
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
I specialize in utilizing Art Therapy to work with people with ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, & late-diagnosed autism in women & AFAB individuals. Don’t worry if art isn’t your thing, we can leave it out or go at a pace that feels comfortable for you! Being a member of the LGBTQ+ & disabled community & embracing my Latinx identity, I am committed to working with clients through an intersectional lens. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive, non-judgmental, & open-minded environment, & encourage clients to process both emotionally & creatively. I am enthusiastic about creating a safe space for clients to thrive.
I specialize in utilizing Art Therapy to work with people with ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, & late-diagnosed autism in women & AFAB individuals. Don’t worry if art isn’t your thing, we can leave it out or go at a pace that feels comfortable for you! Being a member of the LGBTQ+ & disabled community & embracing my Latinx identity, I am committed to working with clients through an intersectional lens. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive, non-judgmental, & open-minded environment, & encourage clients to process both emotionally & creatively. I am enthusiastic about creating a safe space for clients to thrive.
(708) 607-9212 x630670 View (708) 607-9212 x630670
Photo of Erin Marek-Krawczyk, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Marek-Krawczyk
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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.
(630) 354-8879 View (630) 354-8879
Photo of Kaitlyn “Kat” Evans (She They), LPC , Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlyn “Kat” Evans (She They)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC , Intern
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Do you feel like you are just barely surviving in life? Does your child show some signs of anxiety and struggle to socialize with others? Or maybe you have gone through a traumatic experience in your past that lingers in the present and keeps you from feeling like yourself. If you resonate with any of these and don’t know what to do, I could be the therapist for you. I like to think that the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help. Although life inevitably comes with its hardships, it does not have to be an endless experience consisting of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and past traumas constantly coming to the surface.
Do you feel like you are just barely surviving in life? Does your child show some signs of anxiety and struggle to socialize with others? Or maybe you have gone through a traumatic experience in your past that lingers in the present and keeps you from feeling like yourself. If you resonate with any of these and don’t know what to do, I could be the therapist for you. I like to think that the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help. Although life inevitably comes with its hardships, it does not have to be an endless experience consisting of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and past traumas constantly coming to the surface.
(331) 253-4714 View (331) 253-4714
Photo of Sarah Kelder, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Sarah Kelder
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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.
(779) 218-5637 View (779) 218-5637

See more therapy options for Western Springs

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.