Autism Therapists in Dorchester, MA

Photo of Kimberly Masterson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Masterson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dorchester, MA 02125  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral difficulties, self-esteem issues, work or school difficulties as well as working with children and adults with Autism.
Hello! My name is Kimberly Masterson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families in a variety of settings. I take great pride in treating my clients with the utmost respect and building a strong therapeutic relationship based on honesty and integrity. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere in which together, we can explore ways to help you feel better and recognize your true strengths and full potential.
I have extensive experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral difficulties, self-esteem issues, work or school difficulties as well as working with children and adults with Autism.
Hello! My name is Kimberly Masterson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families in a variety of settings. I take great pride in treating my clients with the utmost respect and building a strong therapeutic relationship based on honesty and integrity. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere in which together, we can explore ways to help you feel better and recognize your true strengths and full potential.
(401) 740-3497 View (401) 740-3497
Photo of Emilie Mellal, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emilie Mellal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Dorchester, MA 02125
My practice is: Queer/ Trans-affirming, Neurodiversity-affirming, Body positive, Fat positive, Sex positive, Kink-affirming, and Poly/Non-Monogamy-affirming. I work with individuals and relationships. I like to establish up front that I am a safe person to correct, call-out, interrupt, disagree and argue with. It will not impact our therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life.
My practice is: Queer/ Trans-affirming, Neurodiversity-affirming, Body positive, Fat positive, Sex positive, Kink-affirming, and Poly/Non-Monogamy-affirming. I work with individuals and relationships. I like to establish up front that I am a safe person to correct, call-out, interrupt, disagree and argue with. It will not impact our therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life.
(978) 440-6350 View (978) 440-6350
Photo of Cody S Timmons, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Cody S Timmons
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02122  (Online Only)
I have increased experience with helping individuals of the LGBTQIA population and particular issues that are associated with the community. I have a wide range of experience working with children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals in therapy. I work to provide a judgement free space for individuals to share and explore who they are. I am a strong believer in supporting people through difficult change and helping them discover more about themselves through the process. My main focus of theoretical orientation is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, and IFS.
I have increased experience with helping individuals of the LGBTQIA population and particular issues that are associated with the community. I have a wide range of experience working with children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals in therapy. I work to provide a judgement free space for individuals to share and explore who they are. I am a strong believer in supporting people through difficult change and helping them discover more about themselves through the process. My main focus of theoretical orientation is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, and IFS.
(508) 519-3786 View (508) 519-3786
Photo of Gordonia Tawanda Cundiff - No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc. , MEd, LMHC, Counselor
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dorchester, MA 02124  (Online Only)
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc., was formed in 2022 to address the needs of BIPOC families living in the City of Boston to help decrease the stigmas associated with therapy. We are interested in supporting clients with processing complex trauma, mental issues, and healing in non traditional environments that promote healing and recovery. Clients will have the opportunity to choose their in office experience, telehealth, or in-home therapy.
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc., was formed in 2022 to address the needs of BIPOC families living in the City of Boston to help decrease the stigmas associated with therapy. We are interested in supporting clients with processing complex trauma, mental issues, and healing in non traditional environments that promote healing and recovery. Clients will have the opportunity to choose their in office experience, telehealth, or in-home therapy.
(617) 934-6076 View (617) 934-6076
Photo of Becs Waite, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becs Waite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02124  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Becs, a relationship therapist who specializes in helping folks who want to explore polyamory and non-monogamy. I also specialize in working with couples and relationships where one (or more) partner(s) identifies as queer, kinky, neurodivergent, and/or gender expansive. I also help parents who are navigating a non-traditional family structure such as a step-family or polycule.
Hello! I'm Becs, a relationship therapist who specializes in helping folks who want to explore polyamory and non-monogamy. I also specialize in working with couples and relationships where one (or more) partner(s) identifies as queer, kinky, neurodivergent, and/or gender expansive. I also help parents who are navigating a non-traditional family structure such as a step-family or polycule.
(617) 663-0664 View (617) 663-0664
Photo of Ashley M Weaver-Unadkat - Movement For The Mind, LMHC, LCAT, BC-DMT, CMA, Counselor
Ashley M Weaver-Unadkat - Movement For The Mind
Counselor, LMHC, LCAT, BC-DMT, CMA
Verified Verified
Dorchester, MA 02124  (Online Only)
The therapy session is a time and space one sets aside to focus on self. To be with self. And to build one’s self. It can be challenging to reflect on patterns, thoughts and emotions, relationships, past events and/or change, but it can also be transformative and rewarding. My role as your therapist is to witness your process and to reflect back with you along the way. The therapeutic relationship is an essential piece of my practice and is built on honesty, trust, empathy, and compassion.
The therapy session is a time and space one sets aside to focus on self. To be with self. And to build one’s self. It can be challenging to reflect on patterns, thoughts and emotions, relationships, past events and/or change, but it can also be transformative and rewarding. My role as your therapist is to witness your process and to reflect back with you along the way. The therapeutic relationship is an essential piece of my practice and is built on honesty, trust, empathy, and compassion.
(617) 535-8684 View (617) 535-8684
Photo of Mataiah Crossely - Crossing Fields Therapeutic Service Inc, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crossing Fields Therapeutic Service Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02125  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Mataiah Crossley, LICSW. I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience practicing in an outpatient center, and Within the last 2 years, expanded my scope of practice by operating my own private practice. My practice is devoted to helping adult clients manage daily stress/anxiety, work toward symptom reduction, navigate difficult relationships, learn new skills, and learn about themselves (e.g., their needs, values, strengths, challenges etc.) whilst providing a safe space to explore, share, learn and heal.
Hello, my name is Mataiah Crossley, LICSW. I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience practicing in an outpatient center, and Within the last 2 years, expanded my scope of practice by operating my own private practice. My practice is devoted to helping adult clients manage daily stress/anxiety, work toward symptom reduction, navigate difficult relationships, learn new skills, and learn about themselves (e.g., their needs, values, strengths, challenges etc.) whilst providing a safe space to explore, share, learn and heal.
(339) 220-5194 View (339) 220-5194
Photo of Brian J. Rachmaciej, EdD, LMHC, MACCS, CCTP, Counselor
Brian J. Rachmaciej
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, MACCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02122
Not accepting new clients
Areas of specialty are oppositional defiant youth, learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, family work, and multicultural practice.
Dr. Brian J. Rachmaciej, Ed.D. is an independently Massachusetts and Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed School Psychologist with extensive forensic experience. Dr. Rachmaciej is an LMHC Supervisor in MA and Fl. He can be contracted for Supervision and Case Consultation. Dr. Rachmaciej focuses on a multicultural practice with a strength based focus. Dr. Rachmaciej is trauma trained recognizing the significant impact of trauma within the therapeutic healing process. Dr. Rachmaciej se habla espanol y puede apoyar a ti y tu familia hoy! Si esta interesado en una cita para ti o tu familia llamame hoy al 413-281-8035.
Areas of specialty are oppositional defiant youth, learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, family work, and multicultural practice.
Dr. Brian J. Rachmaciej, Ed.D. is an independently Massachusetts and Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed School Psychologist with extensive forensic experience. Dr. Rachmaciej is an LMHC Supervisor in MA and Fl. He can be contracted for Supervision and Case Consultation. Dr. Rachmaciej focuses on a multicultural practice with a strength based focus. Dr. Rachmaciej is trauma trained recognizing the significant impact of trauma within the therapeutic healing process. Dr. Rachmaciej se habla espanol y puede apoyar a ti y tu familia hoy! Si esta interesado en una cita para ti o tu familia llamame hoy al 413-281-8035.
(413) 418-3581 View (413) 418-3581
Photo of Andrea Constantino, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Constantino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dorchester, MA 02125
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. I am a Social Worker who has worked with children, adults, and families needing guidance for over 20 years. I work with people of all ages and backgrounds. I will collaborate with you to help you achieve all of your goals and to learn how to manage your mental health. I work with all different diagnosis' including Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar I and II, and and Schizophrenia. Every person is individually unique and I am ready to meet you where you are at to help guide you to get you to where you want to be.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. I am a Social Worker who has worked with children, adults, and families needing guidance for over 20 years. I work with people of all ages and backgrounds. I will collaborate with you to help you achieve all of your goals and to learn how to manage your mental health. I work with all different diagnosis' including Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar I and II, and and Schizophrenia. Every person is individually unique and I am ready to meet you where you are at to help guide you to get you to where you want to be.
(857) 763-4409 View (857) 763-4409

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Youngsuk Kim, PhD, Psychologist
Youngsuk Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
Independent of my job at MGH/Harvard Medical School as a clinical psychologist, I see clients in my private practice (Psychological Care and Consultancy, PLLC). I provide video telehealth only. I have extensive experience treating late teens and adults suffering from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem, stresses associated with relationship and family conflicts, and educational and occupational concerns. I also have experience working with health professionals, high-functioning autism, mild TBI and cognitive problems. I am licensed in MA and RI.
Independent of my job at MGH/Harvard Medical School as a clinical psychologist, I see clients in my private practice (Psychological Care and Consultancy, PLLC). I provide video telehealth only. I have extensive experience treating late teens and adults suffering from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem, stresses associated with relationship and family conflicts, and educational and occupational concerns. I also have experience working with health professionals, high-functioning autism, mild TBI and cognitive problems. I am licensed in MA and RI.
(857) 380-0222 View (857) 380-0222
Photo of Xing Liu, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Xing Liu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02120  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
autism), I will utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
I believe that everyone deserves to be heard, regardless of their background or circumstances. Whether you are struggling with excessive worry or negative thoughts, overwhelmed by schoolwork as a student, supporting a family member with autism or developmental disability, or facing challenges as a member of a marginalized group in society, it is common to feel hopeless and worthless at times. However, you do not have to give in to these feelings. Together, we will overcome obstacles by empowering you, developing strategies for managing negative feelings, improving your self-identity, and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself.
autism), I will utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
I believe that everyone deserves to be heard, regardless of their background or circumstances. Whether you are struggling with excessive worry or negative thoughts, overwhelmed by schoolwork as a student, supporting a family member with autism or developmental disability, or facing challenges as a member of a marginalized group in society, it is common to feel hopeless and worthless at times. However, you do not have to give in to these feelings. Together, we will overcome obstacles by empowering you, developing strategies for managing negative feelings, improving your self-identity, and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself.
(332) 244-1780 View (332) 244-1780
Photo of Remy Springer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Remy Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples who identify as neurodivergent or on the autism spectrum and use my knowledge of neurodiversity to help adults with varying challenges including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and executive functioning difficulties.
I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I listen to how you want to move forward with your goals. I always take time to really hear how you, as an individual or couple, want to make changes and respect your own choices in your life. We sometimes find ourselves repeating negative patterns or stuck in challenging situations but have difficulty knowing how to make lasting changes. Therapy can help make this clearer.
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples who identify as neurodivergent or on the autism spectrum and use my knowledge of neurodiversity to help adults with varying challenges including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and executive functioning difficulties.
I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I listen to how you want to move forward with your goals. I always take time to really hear how you, as an individual or couple, want to make changes and respect your own choices in your life. We sometimes find ourselves repeating negative patterns or stuck in challenging situations but have difficulty knowing how to make lasting changes. Therapy can help make this clearer.
(781) 859-0265 View (781) 859-0265
Photo of Kelsi McNamara - Grow With Us Behavioral Consulting, MS, BCBA, LABA
Grow With Us Behavioral Consulting
MS, BCBA, LABA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02121
We work with children and adolescents with Autism as well as other developmental and intellectual disabilities throughout Massachusetts. We work in the home and community setting.
We work with children and adolescents with Autism as well as other developmental and intellectual disabilities throughout Massachusetts. We work in the home and community setting.
(339) 201-9744 View (339) 201-9744
Photo of Dr. Virginie Patt - Center for Cognitive Testing, PhD, Psychologist
Center for Cognitive Testing
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
If you're struggling to keep up, feeling scattered, or just always sensed you were different, you might be right. Dr. Patt specializes in assessments that help you understand how your brain works. Whether you suspect ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or something else, these evaluations provide insight. It's about more than getting a diagnosis; Dr. Patt's goal is to empower you with a clear picture of your unique strengths, pinpoint any challenges, and develop targeted strategies for success. She also has extensive experience working in memory research and diagnosing functioning while providing insights.
If you're struggling to keep up, feeling scattered, or just always sensed you were different, you might be right. Dr. Patt specializes in assessments that help you understand how your brain works. Whether you suspect ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or something else, these evaluations provide insight. It's about more than getting a diagnosis; Dr. Patt's goal is to empower you with a clear picture of your unique strengths, pinpoint any challenges, and develop targeted strategies for success. She also has extensive experience working in memory research and diagnosing functioning while providing insights.
(617) 766-1805 View (617) 766-1805
Photo of Susan M Giurleo, PhD, Psychologist
Susan M Giurleo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02120  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with diverse clients who identify as neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism or other learning differences), LGBTQIA+, and people from diverse ethnic and racial communities.
Are you feeling burned out? Anxious? Unmotivated or uninspired? Are you struggling to manage work and family or confused about your career choices? I work with primarily adults on issues related to anxiety, depression, work/family integration and work/career stressors. In my work, I most often utilize CBT, trauma-informed, solution-focused and strength-based approaches to support people in achieving specific life and mental health goals. Our work is a partnership where you are the expert on YOU and I bring psychological expertse, challenge stuck beliefs and encourage growth and change.
I specialize in working with diverse clients who identify as neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism or other learning differences), LGBTQIA+, and people from diverse ethnic and racial communities.
Are you feeling burned out? Anxious? Unmotivated or uninspired? Are you struggling to manage work and family or confused about your career choices? I work with primarily adults on issues related to anxiety, depression, work/family integration and work/career stressors. In my work, I most often utilize CBT, trauma-informed, solution-focused and strength-based approaches to support people in achieving specific life and mental health goals. Our work is a partnership where you are the expert on YOU and I bring psychological expertse, challenge stuck beliefs and encourage growth and change.
(351) 777-2386 View (351) 777-2386
Photo of Jason Kaufman, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I particularly enjoy working with people coping with personality and autism spectrum disorders, as well as divorce.
I specialize in attachment-oriented individual, couples & family therapy with years of experience helping teens and adults find their way to healthier relationships with themselves and others. My training in DBT, MBT, Relational Life (Terry Real) and Gottmanian couples therapies are the cornerstones of my work improving relationships and well-being. I've aided many badly-bruised relationships. I particularly enjoy working with couples facing trust & communication issues, as well as individuals coping with identity, life-transition, personality & relationship issues. Autism, divorce, narcissism, & men's issues are also specialities.
I particularly enjoy working with people coping with personality and autism spectrum disorders, as well as divorce.
I specialize in attachment-oriented individual, couples & family therapy with years of experience helping teens and adults find their way to healthier relationships with themselves and others. My training in DBT, MBT, Relational Life (Terry Real) and Gottmanian couples therapies are the cornerstones of my work improving relationships and well-being. I've aided many badly-bruised relationships. I particularly enjoy working with couples facing trust & communication issues, as well as individuals coping with identity, life-transition, personality & relationship issues. Autism, divorce, narcissism, & men's issues are also specialities.
(617) 404-3552 View (617) 404-3552
Photo of Dr. Jasmine Akinsulire, QMHP, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Jasmine Akinsulire
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, and/or trauma. I bring an integrative, strength-based approach using solution-focused therapy and CBT in order to help you manage the challenges you face. As a neurodivergent therapist, I know how hard it can be to live in a world where you do not always feel accepted. To feel like no one gets you or how your brain works. There can be a lot of shame associated with neurodivergence and I teach others how to focus on appreciating the unique wiring of their brain. I also help parents through these concerns.
I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, and/or trauma. I bring an integrative, strength-based approach using solution-focused therapy and CBT in order to help you manage the challenges you face. As a neurodivergent therapist, I know how hard it can be to live in a world where you do not always feel accepted. To feel like no one gets you or how your brain works. There can be a lot of shame associated with neurodivergence and I teach others how to focus on appreciating the unique wiring of their brain. I also help parents through these concerns.
(617) 553-6134 View (617) 553-6134
Photo of Cynthia Fox, LCAT-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cynthia Fox
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCAT-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I’m a firm believer that you don’t need to wait until things get really bad to start therapy. If you're a college student, young adult, or professional dealing with anxiety, depression, gender and sexual identity, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or relationship issues, you're not alone! I take a warm, collaborative approach to identify and resolve patterns that keep you feeling stuck. The foundation of my work is an identity-affirming approach that positions you as the expert of your own experience. I am also specially trained in couples therapy and work with clients in traditional and non-traditional relationship styles.
I’m a firm believer that you don’t need to wait until things get really bad to start therapy. If you're a college student, young adult, or professional dealing with anxiety, depression, gender and sexual identity, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or relationship issues, you're not alone! I take a warm, collaborative approach to identify and resolve patterns that keep you feeling stuck. The foundation of my work is an identity-affirming approach that positions you as the expert of your own experience. I am also specially trained in couples therapy and work with clients in traditional and non-traditional relationship styles.
(508) 682-4964 View (508) 682-4964
Photo of Jennifer Hersey, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Hersey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I am an independent licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, autism, relationship issues, depression, life transitions, and behavioral patterns that may be holding one back from experiencing a life they desire. I use evidence-based methods of treatment. By establishing a collaborative relationship, I help individuals learn how to self-regulate, self-advocate, build relationships, confidence, and problem solve. I also provide parent coaching to help parents learn how to best support their child's unique needs.
I am an independent licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, autism, relationship issues, depression, life transitions, and behavioral patterns that may be holding one back from experiencing a life they desire. I use evidence-based methods of treatment. By establishing a collaborative relationship, I help individuals learn how to self-regulate, self-advocate, build relationships, confidence, and problem solve. I also provide parent coaching to help parents learn how to best support their child's unique needs.
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Photo of Meghan Silva, PhD, Psychologist
Meghan Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients. Parenting, anxiety, work struggles, and day to day challenges can be increasingly hard to navigate and prioritizing your well-being can seem out of reach. However, your well-being and the well-being of your family matters. My approach centers on connection between therapist and client, connection to psychoeducation to learn new skills, and connection to resources to make navigating challenging circumstances easier. I work with clients with concerns regarding anxiety, ADHD, ASD, depression, and sleep. Long-term and short-term therapy are both available, and we will work together to find the best fit for you.
Accepting new patients. Parenting, anxiety, work struggles, and day to day challenges can be increasingly hard to navigate and prioritizing your well-being can seem out of reach. However, your well-being and the well-being of your family matters. My approach centers on connection between therapist and client, connection to psychoeducation to learn new skills, and connection to resources to make navigating challenging circumstances easier. I work with clients with concerns regarding anxiety, ADHD, ASD, depression, and sleep. Long-term and short-term therapy are both available, and we will work together to find the best fit for you.
(508) 318-6649 View (508) 318-6649

See more therapy options for Dorchester

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.