Autism Therapists in South Boston, MA
![Photo of Rebekah L. Roulier - Doc Wayne Youth Services, Inc., MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e66266d-f423-4923-a7cb-4c7cad5e8a70/1/320x400.png)
Doc Wayne is a Boston-based, award-winning mental health provider leading the field of sport-based therapy. We provide training, tools, and services that address emotional, behavioral, traumatic, racial, gender, and cultural-based barriers by providing equitable access to better mental health for all. Since 2010, Doc Wayne has expanded to serve over 2,500 youth and adults each week through programs including Chalk Talk Group Therapy, Therapeutic Recess, and the Community Clinic. Each of our programs is designed to assist youth and adults with different mental health needs, ensuring they have the best quality support available.
Doc Wayne is a Boston-based, award-winning mental health provider leading the field of sport-based therapy. We provide training, tools, and services that address emotional, behavioral, traumatic, racial, gender, and cultural-based barriers by providing equitable access to better mental health for all. Since 2010, Doc Wayne has expanded to serve over 2,500 youth and adults each week through programs including Chalk Talk Group Therapy, Therapeutic Recess, and the Community Clinic. Each of our programs is designed to assist youth and adults with different mental health needs, ensuring they have the best quality support available.
![Photo of Douglas Orne, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de07c3a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Active in approach, transparent in nature and collaborative in style, my practice will validate all it has taken for you to arrive at my door. Then begins the process of crafting a clear pathway towards a different experience of self. Supporting individuals and families in acquiring and sustaining the real skills necessary for positive behavioral change is what I do best, be it in my Cambridge office or in the front room of your home.
Active in approach, transparent in nature and collaborative in style, my practice will validate all it has taken for you to arrive at my door. Then begins the process of crafting a clear pathway towards a different experience of self. Supporting individuals and families in acquiring and sustaining the real skills necessary for positive behavioral change is what I do best, be it in my Cambridge office or in the front room of your home.
![Photo of Mia DePaolo, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2ab8c1c-ec29-4c00-9f24-44adfc9f3ef9/8/320x400.jpeg)
Summer 2024 - Accepting New Clients! At this moment, you may be struggling with feelings of uncertainty, pressure, or worry. Perhaps you’d rather avoid this moment altogether. Taking this step to seek support with whatever challenges you may be facing can feel daunting, but my hope is to alleviate some of those feelings as we embark on that journey together. My goal is to support you as a whole person and hold space for your lived experiences through unconditional acceptance and non-judgement, while creating a safe therapeutic environment where you feel heard and valued.
Summer 2024 - Accepting New Clients! At this moment, you may be struggling with feelings of uncertainty, pressure, or worry. Perhaps you’d rather avoid this moment altogether. Taking this step to seek support with whatever challenges you may be facing can feel daunting, but my hope is to alleviate some of those feelings as we embark on that journey together. My goal is to support you as a whole person and hold space for your lived experiences through unconditional acceptance and non-judgement, while creating a safe therapeutic environment where you feel heard and valued.
![Photo of Anna Svetchnikov, LMFT, MS, LSWA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4dca2d-411a-43ed-a1b4-d728e604a9e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Svetchnikov
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, LSWA
Verified Verified
South Boston, MA 02127 (Online Only)
Individual clients welcome. In my professional journey, I've had the privilege of guiding thousands of clients from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique stories and challenges. I help individuals cultivate a deep understanding of their emotions, fostering emotional intelligence that is crucial for personal growth. I strive to create a space where feelings are acknowledged and processed, to clear a path for success. Embracing wellbeing as a fundamental aspect of strength is at the heart of my approach. The goal is for you to become an insightful expert of your own life - past, present and future.
Individual clients welcome. In my professional journey, I've had the privilege of guiding thousands of clients from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique stories and challenges. I help individuals cultivate a deep understanding of their emotions, fostering emotional intelligence that is crucial for personal growth. I strive to create a space where feelings are acknowledged and processed, to clear a path for success. Embracing wellbeing as a fundamental aspect of strength is at the heart of my approach. The goal is for you to become an insightful expert of your own life - past, present and future.
![Photo of Julia Cannon, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45bb9951-42ed-4592-8946-963bad00bbe0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Cannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boston, MA 02127 (Online Only)
Welcome! My practice focuses on balancing acceptance and change - embracing who you are, while also encouraging progress and self-transformation. I use evidence-based modalities like DBT, CBT, & Mindfulness, combined with Liberation Health Theory, to help you unlearn harmful societal messages and build internal self-worth and confidence. You will be able to tap back into your intuition and move forward with confidence. I often incorporate humor into our sessions to keep things relaxed and approachable. Nobody wants to feel like they’re talking to a wall! I show up authentically, and I hope you feel comfortable doing the same.
Welcome! My practice focuses on balancing acceptance and change - embracing who you are, while also encouraging progress and self-transformation. I use evidence-based modalities like DBT, CBT, & Mindfulness, combined with Liberation Health Theory, to help you unlearn harmful societal messages and build internal self-worth and confidence. You will be able to tap back into your intuition and move forward with confidence. I often incorporate humor into our sessions to keep things relaxed and approachable. Nobody wants to feel like they’re talking to a wall! I show up authentically, and I hope you feel comfortable doing the same.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/137474e7-3010-4fa9-a727-492fa4995206/2/320x400.png)
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
![Photo of Kory (Chase) Andreas, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c78f755e-14f9-437a-a3b1-6349e2659c16/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kory (Chase) Andreas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
I provide Autism assessments for teens and adults, with a specific focus in the area of Autism in women and gender nonconforming clients.
As a clinical Social Worker for over 18 years, I come from a long line of “colorful,” Neurodivergent brains. I have been drawn to the passionate, the quirky, and the uniquely wired since I can remember. Connection is at the heart of my work with all clients. I believe that the magic behind therapy does not stem from any particular therapeutic modality, but instead from feeling understood and hopeful. I have an extensive background and a passion for working with Autistic clients. I am an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist. Therapy should be a safe place for clients to unmask and work towards positive change.
I provide Autism assessments for teens and adults, with a specific focus in the area of Autism in women and gender nonconforming clients.
As a clinical Social Worker for over 18 years, I come from a long line of “colorful,” Neurodivergent brains. I have been drawn to the passionate, the quirky, and the uniquely wired since I can remember. Connection is at the heart of my work with all clients. I believe that the magic behind therapy does not stem from any particular therapeutic modality, but instead from feeling understood and hopeful. I have an extensive background and a passion for working with Autistic clients. I am an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist. Therapy should be a safe place for clients to unmask and work towards positive change.
![Photo of Matthew Goodnow, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbd6f140-b8c9-4704-b8ba-5c05ccf1c66b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults. I utilize a strength-based approach in my evaluations and work collaboratively with parents, teachers, therapists, and other professionals to best understand each patient. I provide diagnostic clarity regarding ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, and other issues, and offer targeted recommendations individually-tailored to each patient's needs. My goal for every evaluation is to provide a "road map" to help each patient achieve success at school, work, and/or at home.
I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults. I utilize a strength-based approach in my evaluations and work collaboratively with parents, teachers, therapists, and other professionals to best understand each patient. I provide diagnostic clarity regarding ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, and other issues, and offer targeted recommendations individually-tailored to each patient's needs. My goal for every evaluation is to provide a "road map" to help each patient achieve success at school, work, and/or at home.
![Photo of Remy Springer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a5e3927-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Francesca Rinaldi, MS, BCBA, LABA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fc7cf8f-7fe5-479c-abef-4db8edf697cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients for immediate virtual openings. I am a board certified behavior analyst. I work with adults looking to improve their wellbeing and change behavior to live their best lives. I also work with children and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder and their families to promote positive behavior change in the home and community. My goal is to offer effective therapy that is person centered and focuses on all of the goals that the individual hopes to accomplish.
Accepting new clients for immediate virtual openings. I am a board certified behavior analyst. I work with adults looking to improve their wellbeing and change behavior to live their best lives. I also work with children and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder and their families to promote positive behavior change in the home and community. My goal is to offer effective therapy that is person centered and focuses on all of the goals that the individual hopes to accomplish.
![Photo of Kenzi DeFaria, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8c99aed-baa6-4b1b-8398-e15dce2faf72/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kenzi DeFaria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02105 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in both RI and MA. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults with Autism and anxiety disorders, including OCD, phobias, and selective mutism, to learn the tools necessary to help them feel comfortable and confident in themselves. Most of my client's goals include learning to cope with fears and obsessive/intrusive thoughts, developing positive communication skills, and increasing self-esteem, confidence, and compassion for themselves. I utilize exposure therapy, ERP (exposure and response prevention), I-CBT (Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and ACT.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in both RI and MA. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults with Autism and anxiety disorders, including OCD, phobias, and selective mutism, to learn the tools necessary to help them feel comfortable and confident in themselves. Most of my client's goals include learning to cope with fears and obsessive/intrusive thoughts, developing positive communication skills, and increasing self-esteem, confidence, and compassion for themselves. I utilize exposure therapy, ERP (exposure and response prevention), I-CBT (Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and ACT.
![Photo of Beril Bayrak, MD , FAAP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ee90cab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in Infant Mental Health and autism diagnosis, and will be launching Circle of Security parenting groups to empower parents and strengthen their bond with their children.
My primary goal is to provide assistance and guidance to parents facing any concerns or conflicts related to parenting, with a strong emphasis on promoting the mental well-being of both the child and the entire family. I specialize in offering prenatal and newborn consultations, aiming to establish and nurture caregiver-child relationships from the very beginning, with a focus on prevention. I have extensive experience working with families who have encountered postpartum depression, anxiety, and premature birth, as well as children who face regulation challenges during early childhood and beyond.
I am trained in Infant Mental Health and autism diagnosis, and will be launching Circle of Security parenting groups to empower parents and strengthen their bond with their children.
My primary goal is to provide assistance and guidance to parents facing any concerns or conflicts related to parenting, with a strong emphasis on promoting the mental well-being of both the child and the entire family. I specialize in offering prenatal and newborn consultations, aiming to establish and nurture caregiver-child relationships from the very beginning, with a focus on prevention. I have extensive experience working with families who have encountered postpartum depression, anxiety, and premature birth, as well as children who face regulation challenges during early childhood and beyond.
![Photo of Aly Rogers, MS, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5f8c5ec-be59-4860-b22f-b7c7cc5bfb34/3/320x400.png)
Aly is the therapist who proves that therapy can be fun, quirky, and still super effective. As a clinician specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she has a unique approach to mental health that combines humor and compassion to help individuals overcome symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Autism. Aly knows that mental health can be serious, but she also believes that it doesn't have to be stuffy and boring to work through challenges. Her approach to therapy helps patients find their own strengths & values, then acts as a guide for aligning their lives with those things that matter to them most.
Aly is the therapist who proves that therapy can be fun, quirky, and still super effective. As a clinician specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she has a unique approach to mental health that combines humor and compassion to help individuals overcome symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Autism. Aly knows that mental health can be serious, but she also believes that it doesn't have to be stuffy and boring to work through challenges. Her approach to therapy helps patients find their own strengths & values, then acts as a guide for aligning their lives with those things that matter to them most.
![Photo of Kelsi McNamara - Grow With Us Behavioral Consulting, MS, BCBA, LABA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71d0bab1-7bec-4708-abb7-c400a5fa9427/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jill Pineda, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6636fc9-c102-4faa-82a6-7b42a50b6fad/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have particular expertise in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability, and hearing and vision impairment.
I am a pediatric psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with children, families, schools, and providers to better understand the unique needs of each child. I have expertise in conducting neuropsychological assessments of intellectual functioning, attention, learning, and other cognitive skills to provide diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations. I strive to provide compassionate care and help each child work toward reaching their full potential.
I have particular expertise in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability, and hearing and vision impairment.
I am a pediatric psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with children, families, schools, and providers to better understand the unique needs of each child. I have expertise in conducting neuropsychological assessments of intellectual functioning, attention, learning, and other cognitive skills to provide diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations. I strive to provide compassionate care and help each child work toward reaching their full potential.
![Photo of Dr. Casey L Evans, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3510afc-9aad-47cc-9a19-0389e965afd7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer comprehensive, private pay neuropsychological evaluations to help you better understand strengths, the nature of any challenges, and how to best help. I provide psychological services across the lifespan, from infancy to adulthood, and specialize in neuropsychological, neurodevelopmental, and educational evaluations with expertise in the evaluation of giftedness, ADHD/executive functioning, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, speech/language delays, traumatic brain injuries/concussion, and medical/genetic/neurologic disorders, as well as and anxiety/mood concerns.
I offer comprehensive, private pay neuropsychological evaluations to help you better understand strengths, the nature of any challenges, and how to best help. I provide psychological services across the lifespan, from infancy to adulthood, and specialize in neuropsychological, neurodevelopmental, and educational evaluations with expertise in the evaluation of giftedness, ADHD/executive functioning, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, speech/language delays, traumatic brain injuries/concussion, and medical/genetic/neurologic disorders, as well as and anxiety/mood concerns.
![Photo of Jodi Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32b4f0e1-6105-4b5f-9a93-24bac6c9323b/1/320x400.png)
Jodi Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist
PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
![Photo of Ana Bulnes, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e110d3bb-8ec3-48ed-93cb-bcb3e2b83925/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ana Bulnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02101 (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker with over 21 years of experience licensed in the states of Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Texas, and Vermont. I help clients address autism, ADHD, and the challenges that stem from these differences (C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and communication challenges, family relationship challenges, and parenting support). I also have a lot of experience working with PTSD and C-PTSD, and helping individuals, couples and families improve their communications. I see my clients as the experts in their lives and my role as that of a guide toward insight and improvement.
I am a clinical social worker with over 21 years of experience licensed in the states of Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Texas, and Vermont. I help clients address autism, ADHD, and the challenges that stem from these differences (C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and communication challenges, family relationship challenges, and parenting support). I also have a lot of experience working with PTSD and C-PTSD, and helping individuals, couples and families improve their communications. I see my clients as the experts in their lives and my role as that of a guide toward insight and improvement.
![Photo of Youngsuk Kim, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b119a2d2-aa98-457f-b448-fc20e21bbc06/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 adults and 65+ 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, late teens, and military service members. 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 adults and 65+ 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, late teens, and military service members. I am licensed in MA and RI.
![Photo of Heidi A Wilson - A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW, LCSW, ACHP-SW, CIMHP, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40950fdd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW, CIMHP, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution-Focused therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma therapy, DBT to treat Autism, ADHD, cognitive disorders, anxiety, panic, grief, depression, anger, and trauma.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution-Focused therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma therapy, DBT to treat Autism, ADHD, cognitive disorders, anxiety, panic, grief, depression, anger, and trauma.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
See more therapy options for South Boston
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for South Boston
- Allston
- Boston
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Cambridge
- Chestnut Hill
- Dorchester
- Jamaica Plain
- Milton
- Quincy
- Roslindale
- Somerville
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.