Autism Therapists in Wellesley, MA

Photo of Fanny Mlawer, PhD, Psychologist
Fanny Mlawer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a wide range of childhood and adolescent behavioral and emotional concerns, including behavioral and emotional outbursts, anxiety, picky eating, and coping with stressful life events. I have a particular expertise working with children and adolescents with neurodevelopment concerns (e.g. ADHD, Autism) and chronic medical conditions, as well as treating sleep difficulties, distress during medical appointments/procedures (e.g. injections/blood draws, imaging, dentist), treatment adherence (e.g. pill swallowing), feeding concerns, and parenting concerns/difficulties.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a wide range of childhood and adolescent behavioral and emotional concerns, including behavioral and emotional outbursts, anxiety, picky eating, and coping with stressful life events. I have a particular expertise working with children and adolescents with neurodevelopment concerns (e.g. ADHD, Autism) and chronic medical conditions, as well as treating sleep difficulties, distress during medical appointments/procedures (e.g. injections/blood draws, imaging, dentist), treatment adherence (e.g. pill swallowing), feeding concerns, and parenting concerns/difficulties.
(774) 224-5368 View (774) 224-5368
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Depression, SI, and Anxiety, with experience in art & garden therapies.
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.
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Depression, SI, and Anxiety, with experience in art & garden therapies.
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.
(339) 237-4320 View (339) 237-4320
Photo of Dr. Virginie Patt - Center for Cognitive Testing, PhD, Psychologist
Center for Cognitive Testing
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
Are you struggling to keep up, noticing changes in your thinking and memory, or always felt that something was different about your brain style? The Center for Cognitive Testing specializes in neuropsychological evaluations that delve into how the brain functions. Whether you are concerned about cognitive decline or suspect a neurodivergent process like ADHD or autism, our assessments can provide insights into your unique profile of strengths and challenges. With this knowledge, you can move forward with targeted strategies tailored to your needs.
Are you struggling to keep up, noticing changes in your thinking and memory, or always felt that something was different about your brain style? The Center for Cognitive Testing specializes in neuropsychological evaluations that delve into how the brain functions. Whether you are concerned about cognitive decline or suspect a neurodivergent process like ADHD or autism, our assessments can provide insights into your unique profile of strengths and challenges. With this knowledge, you can move forward with targeted strategies tailored to your needs.
(617) 766-1805 View (617) 766-1805
Photo of Lauren O'Hara, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren O'Hara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
I also offer assessment for autism spectrum disorder (ADOS-2 trained) and giftedness.
Currently only accepting patient for evaluations services. I am a licensed psychologist and provide testing for children, teens, and young adults. I have a particular expertise in assessment and treatment with youth impacted by neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities (such as dyslexia), and ADHD.
I also offer assessment for autism spectrum disorder (ADOS-2 trained) and giftedness.
Currently only accepting patient for evaluations services. I am a licensed psychologist and provide testing for children, teens, and young adults. I have a particular expertise in assessment and treatment with youth impacted by neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities (such as dyslexia), and ADHD.
(339) 218-5033 View (339) 218-5033
Photo of Anthony Mastrocola, LMHC, Counselor
Anthony Mastrocola
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a strengths-based, caring clinician, and my clinical training is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children and adults. My clinical experience includes treating children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, impulse control/hyperactivity, OCD, socialization, autism spectrum disorder, grief, and trauma. I have experience collaborating with clients and family members to best support their goals and interests.
I am a strengths-based, caring clinician, and my clinical training is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children and adults. My clinical experience includes treating children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, impulse control/hyperactivity, OCD, socialization, autism spectrum disorder, grief, and trauma. I have experience collaborating with clients and family members to best support their goals and interests.
(774) 255-5776 View (774) 255-5776
Photo of Caleb Brooks Licsw Mental Health For Teens, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caleb Brooks Licsw Mental Health For Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
In addition I possess advanced certifications in ADHD , Autism, Anxiety, and Trauma with culturally competent care.
Is your teen grappling with self-doubt, low self-esteem, or harsh self-criticism? These struggles, often amplified by trauma, family changes, or an absent parent, can deeply affect a teen’s well-being and self-perception. As a licensed social worker with extensive experience in adolescent therapy, I help teens reframe their negative beliefs and foster a positive self-image they can be proud of. Through personalized care, I help them build resilience and emotional strength. I also support families with parent guidance sessions, giving you the tools and strategies needed to encourage your teen’s growth and well-being.
In addition I possess advanced certifications in ADHD , Autism, Anxiety, and Trauma with culturally competent care.
Is your teen grappling with self-doubt, low self-esteem, or harsh self-criticism? These struggles, often amplified by trauma, family changes, or an absent parent, can deeply affect a teen’s well-being and self-perception. As a licensed social worker with extensive experience in adolescent therapy, I help teens reframe their negative beliefs and foster a positive self-image they can be proud of. Through personalized care, I help them build resilience and emotional strength. I also support families with parent guidance sessions, giving you the tools and strategies needed to encourage your teen’s growth and well-being.
(617) 958-6021 View (617) 958-6021
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Zito, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kimberly Zito
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I also specialize in providing comprehensive psychological evaluations and diagnostic assessments for concerns related to ADHD, autism, mood, anxiety, learning, behavior, etc.
Searching for a therapist is a vulnerable and intimate decision towards self-exploration. I am dedicated to holding space for you to heal, explore, and connect to your authentic self, while helping you to strengthen your inner resources. Working with individuals across the lifespan, I strive to facilitate a deepening of the relationship with self and other. Whether you want to address a particular concern within your life, navigate a new transition, recover from a recent or past trauma, shift negative behavior patterns, or resolve uncomfortable feelings or emotions, I am here.
I also specialize in providing comprehensive psychological evaluations and diagnostic assessments for concerns related to ADHD, autism, mood, anxiety, learning, behavior, etc.
Searching for a therapist is a vulnerable and intimate decision towards self-exploration. I am dedicated to holding space for you to heal, explore, and connect to your authentic self, while helping you to strengthen your inner resources. Working with individuals across the lifespan, I strive to facilitate a deepening of the relationship with self and other. Whether you want to address a particular concern within your life, navigate a new transition, recover from a recent or past trauma, shift negative behavior patterns, or resolve uncomfortable feelings or emotions, I am here.
(860) 390-4838 View (860) 390-4838
Photo of Beth Chase, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Chase
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
My ideal client is an adult who is facing challenges associated with depression, anxiety, life changes, and life stages. My client seeks to find joy in life and expand tools to meet the day's challenges. Another ideal client would be the neuroatypical person seeking to understand how to navigate a world they struggle to understand. This could include those on the autism spectrum or ADHD. Another ideal client would be seniors seeking to navigate the challenges of aging, including loss of jobs through retirement, changing health, or any other issue.
My ideal client is an adult who is facing challenges associated with depression, anxiety, life changes, and life stages. My client seeks to find joy in life and expand tools to meet the day's challenges. Another ideal client would be the neuroatypical person seeking to understand how to navigate a world they struggle to understand. This could include those on the autism spectrum or ADHD. Another ideal client would be seniors seeking to navigate the challenges of aging, including loss of jobs through retirement, changing health, or any other issue.
(339) 237-4320 View (339) 237-4320
Photo of Joanne Virginio, LMHC, Counselor
Joanne Virginio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have worked in school, residential and outreach settings with a variety of diagnoses including (but not limited to) Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
I am glad to support those struggling in today's strange climate, or those looking to explore themselves and increase health and wellness while quarantined. My approach to treatment is strength based and multimodal. I use a holistic approach that can incorporate discussion, art, movement and humor to explore issues. I work well with those who have had trouble connecting with therapists in the past and those who may be resistant to entering treatment. I am certified in the SSP, a polyvagal approach to improving symptoms.
I have worked in school, residential and outreach settings with a variety of diagnoses including (but not limited to) Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
I am glad to support those struggling in today's strange climate, or those looking to explore themselves and increase health and wellness while quarantined. My approach to treatment is strength based and multimodal. I use a holistic approach that can incorporate discussion, art, movement and humor to explore issues. I work well with those who have had trouble connecting with therapists in the past and those who may be resistant to entering treatment. I am certified in the SSP, a polyvagal approach to improving symptoms.
(617) 906-6862 View (617) 906-6862
Photo of Garrett Berna, LMHC, Counselor
Garrett Berna
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am experienced working with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Autism Spectrum Disorder, grief/loss, Substance Abuse, Schizophrenia, social skills building, self-esteem building, mood disorders, mild to severe behavioral issues, and coping skills.
I have worked with diverse populations and people of all ages ranging from 4-74 years old while working in community mental health. My clinical experience also includes treating children and adolescents with trauma and severe emotional and behavioral issues at two residential schools. I currently focus on children, teens/adolescents, families, and adults. I enjoy working with (and working alongside) athletes, taking a sports psychology approach. I also have a strong history of working well with clients who have not responded/had difficulty engaging in traditional therapy.
I am experienced working with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Autism Spectrum Disorder, grief/loss, Substance Abuse, Schizophrenia, social skills building, self-esteem building, mood disorders, mild to severe behavioral issues, and coping skills.
I have worked with diverse populations and people of all ages ranging from 4-74 years old while working in community mental health. My clinical experience also includes treating children and adolescents with trauma and severe emotional and behavioral issues at two residential schools. I currently focus on children, teens/adolescents, families, and adults. I enjoy working with (and working alongside) athletes, taking a sports psychology approach. I also have a strong history of working well with clients who have not responded/had difficulty engaging in traditional therapy.
(508) 544-0258 View (508) 544-0258
Photo of Barbara Weinberg, MEd, EdD, Psychologist
Barbara Weinberg
Psychologist, MEd, EdD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a clinical psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and adults for over 25 years. I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches in order to target your child's and your family's unique set of needs. Depending on your child's age and challenges, my approach blends components of developmental psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems and neuropsychology. I specialize in helping children learn strategies for managing anxiety, emotional regulation, depression, learning/developmental disabilities, Autism, and ADHD, to name a few.
I am a clinical psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and adults for over 25 years. I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches in order to target your child's and your family's unique set of needs. Depending on your child's age and challenges, my approach blends components of developmental psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems and neuropsychology. I specialize in helping children learn strategies for managing anxiety, emotional regulation, depression, learning/developmental disabilities, Autism, and ADHD, to name a few.
(508) 928-9066 View (508) 928-9066
Photo of Nicole Foxe, LICSW, CPT, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Foxe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CPT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am driven by directness and efficiency, and draw upon my humor, warmth, and ability to motivate. My approach is unencumbered by therapeutic conventions of insurance approval, clinical setting, and therapy tropes. I offer a novel approach to therapy for OCD, phobias, ADHD, anxiety, autism functioning concerns, and weight management. We will meet in a location of your choice (home, office, etc) or remotely. I do not accept insurance, and only you will determine the visit frequency. Please inquire if you wish to utilize my expertise as a Certified Personal Trainer, and/or Registered Yoga Teacher (200-hr) to augment therapy.
I am driven by directness and efficiency, and draw upon my humor, warmth, and ability to motivate. My approach is unencumbered by therapeutic conventions of insurance approval, clinical setting, and therapy tropes. I offer a novel approach to therapy for OCD, phobias, ADHD, anxiety, autism functioning concerns, and weight management. We will meet in a location of your choice (home, office, etc) or remotely. I do not accept insurance, and only you will determine the visit frequency. Please inquire if you wish to utilize my expertise as a Certified Personal Trainer, and/or Registered Yoga Teacher (200-hr) to augment therapy.
(508) 964-3046 View (508) 964-3046
Photo of Dr. Lynn Margolies - Dr. Lynn Margolies, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lynn Margolies
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181  (Online Only)
Dr. Margolies was trained at a Harvard teaching hospital with an Instructor appointment at Harvard Medical School. She is an interactive, skilled, conscientious, thoughtful & caring psychologist who goes the extra mile. Dr. M is engaging & real with her patients. She uses a respectful, collaborative, intuitive, & empowering approach that provides people with relevant, explicit and useful feedback removing the mystery of the process of therapy. Specialties: Interpersonal conflict, Parenting/Family issues, Teens/Young adults, Men,Midlife crises,Self-defeating patterns,Unresolved childhood trauma,High functioning autism spectrum.
Dr. Margolies was trained at a Harvard teaching hospital with an Instructor appointment at Harvard Medical School. She is an interactive, skilled, conscientious, thoughtful & caring psychologist who goes the extra mile. Dr. M is engaging & real with her patients. She uses a respectful, collaborative, intuitive, & empowering approach that provides people with relevant, explicit and useful feedback removing the mystery of the process of therapy. Specialties: Interpersonal conflict, Parenting/Family issues, Teens/Young adults, Men,Midlife crises,Self-defeating patterns,Unresolved childhood trauma,High functioning autism spectrum.
(617) 446-3025 View (617) 446-3025
Photo of Emily Hogan, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Hogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02181  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. We all face challenges in life, and you are worth the support you're seeking. I am a unique fit for you if you identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and/or chronically ill (these often overlap, especially EDS, POTS, MCAS, ME/CFS, long COVID, autoimmune). Perhaps you are here because you are facing medical trauma, new or ongoing disability, adult diagnosis of ADHD/ autism, or sexuality/gender identity questions. If you would like support with trauma, I am fully EMDR trained. I am also a certified perinatal therapist and can support you in all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. We all face challenges in life, and you are worth the support you're seeking. I am a unique fit for you if you identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and/or chronically ill (these often overlap, especially EDS, POTS, MCAS, ME/CFS, long COVID, autoimmune). Perhaps you are here because you are facing medical trauma, new or ongoing disability, adult diagnosis of ADHD/ autism, or sexuality/gender identity questions. If you would like support with trauma, I am fully EMDR trained. I am also a certified perinatal therapist and can support you in all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
(978) 485-4824 View (978) 485-4824
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Hermes, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Hermes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181
, autism spectrum, delay in developmental milestones, intellectual and learning disabilities, medical complexities, and ADHD) as well as emotional and social challenges.
Hello! I am a licensed pediatric neuropsychologist specializing in assessment, consultation, and treatment of children and adolescents. A primary emphasis of my clinical work is supporting young children (as young as 12 months of age) and their families, as well as consulting with providers and educators. Therapeutically, I aim to act as an advocate to ensure children receive necessary supports and services, as well as provide parenting support and individual therapy. I treat children and adolescents, as well as provide direct support to parents regarding their children's emotional, behavioral, and social needs.
, autism spectrum, delay in developmental milestones, intellectual and learning disabilities, medical complexities, and ADHD) as well as emotional and social challenges.
Hello! I am a licensed pediatric neuropsychologist specializing in assessment, consultation, and treatment of children and adolescents. A primary emphasis of my clinical work is supporting young children (as young as 12 months of age) and their families, as well as consulting with providers and educators. Therapeutically, I aim to act as an advocate to ensure children receive necessary supports and services, as well as provide parenting support and individual therapy. I treat children and adolescents, as well as provide direct support to parents regarding their children's emotional, behavioral, and social needs.
(617) 533-0212 View (617) 533-0212
Photo of Kerry Joachim, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kerry Joachim
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02181
I have experience working in school and community settings and have areas of specialty in crisis management and working with neurodiverse teens and young adults including those on the autism spectrum.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a space in which clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences while feeling safe, heard, and understood. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, person-centered, and strengths-based. I weave in aspects of a variety of other styles including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and social thinking components based on the unique and individual needs of each client. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults on topics including; anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, school related concerns, trauma, and low self-esteem.
I have experience working in school and community settings and have areas of specialty in crisis management and working with neurodiverse teens and young adults including those on the autism spectrum.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a space in which clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences while feeling safe, heard, and understood. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, person-centered, and strengths-based. I weave in aspects of a variety of other styles including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and social thinking components based on the unique and individual needs of each client. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults on topics including; anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, school related concerns, trauma, and low self-esteem.
(617) 766-3895 View (617) 766-3895
Photo of Michelle Hoffman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I offer either parent coaching or full family therapy around topics such as ADHD, late diagnosed autism, adoption, chronic dysregulation, emerging borderline personality disorder, anxiety/depression, or school refusal.
Do you feel like nothing you say or do with your teenager is right? Are you worried about your child's safety, their behavior, and/or their future? Trying to effectively parent a struggling teenager can be incredibly challenging. Whether your teen is engaging in unsafe behaviors, won't go to school, or is constantly dysregulated, the pressure this puts on parents and siblings can be overwhelming. I help families/parents/individuals identify what their therapeutic goals are, what is getting in the way of meeting those goals, and what needs to happen to create a safer, healthier family that can move forward together.
I offer either parent coaching or full family therapy around topics such as ADHD, late diagnosed autism, adoption, chronic dysregulation, emerging borderline personality disorder, anxiety/depression, or school refusal.
Do you feel like nothing you say or do with your teenager is right? Are you worried about your child's safety, their behavior, and/or their future? Trying to effectively parent a struggling teenager can be incredibly challenging. Whether your teen is engaging in unsafe behaviors, won't go to school, or is constantly dysregulated, the pressure this puts on parents and siblings can be overwhelming. I help families/parents/individuals identify what their therapeutic goals are, what is getting in the way of meeting those goals, and what needs to happen to create a safer, healthier family that can move forward together.
(508) 978-3719 View (508) 978-3719
Photo of Erica DuFresne, LMHC, Counselor
Erica DuFresne
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
My ideal client has either experienced a past trauma and/or is dealing with anxiety or depression. This client can be someone diagnosed with ASD, as I enjoy working with neurodiverse populations. This client should want guidance and support to develop emotional regulation skills, build positive relationships with others, or process their emotional experiences. I can help support those going through various life transitions, as well as help people develop self-awareness and understanding.
My ideal client has either experienced a past trauma and/or is dealing with anxiety or depression. This client can be someone diagnosed with ASD, as I enjoy working with neurodiverse populations. This client should want guidance and support to develop emotional regulation skills, build positive relationships with others, or process their emotional experiences. I can help support those going through various life transitions, as well as help people develop self-awareness and understanding.
(508) 501-6782 View (508) 501-6782
Photo of Larissa Kuechen, PhD, Psychologist
Larissa Kuechen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced child psychologist who can help your child overcome their challenges and thrive? If your child is struggling, you may feel overwhelmed and frustrated by the lack of effective solutions. You are not alone. Many parents face the same difficulties and worries as you do. With the right support and guidance, your child can learn to cope with their symptoms, develop new skills, and improve their quality of life.
Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced child psychologist who can help your child overcome their challenges and thrive? If your child is struggling, you may feel overwhelmed and frustrated by the lack of effective solutions. You are not alone. Many parents face the same difficulties and worries as you do. With the right support and guidance, your child can learn to cope with their symptoms, develop new skills, and improve their quality of life.
(617) 915-4096 View (617) 915-4096
Photo of Kristen Weiner, MBMS, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Weiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBMS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I provide comprehensive and empathetic counseling to individuals of all ages. My in-person practice is most appropriate for children, families, and adults who prefer to meet face to face. My virtual practice specializes in care for parents — offering practical strategies for supporting child development, or just general mental health support during the often overwhelming parenting years. Whether you’re on a journey to heal your own childhood trauma, or you’re looking for support so you can best support your family, I believe that you are the expert of your own experience, and that value is foundational in treatment.
I provide comprehensive and empathetic counseling to individuals of all ages. My in-person practice is most appropriate for children, families, and adults who prefer to meet face to face. My virtual practice specializes in care for parents — offering practical strategies for supporting child development, or just general mental health support during the often overwhelming parenting years. Whether you’re on a journey to heal your own childhood trauma, or you’re looking for support so you can best support your family, I believe that you are the expert of your own experience, and that value is foundational in treatment.
(781) 368-0809 View (781) 368-0809
1
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.