Autism Therapists in Worcester, MA
![Photo of Porter Charles, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa8cff60-61b5-4bb4-9ca0-05f566e55525/2/320x400.jpeg)
Porter Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01604 (Online Only)
I work with individuals and/or families who struggle to find hope, balance or freedom from fear in its many forms. I enjoy creating a strong connection with my clients and cater my sessions towards their needs and ways of learning. Tambien hablo espanol y mis clientes ideales son aqellos quien estan frustrado con la vida, o chico/as quien tiene desafios como depression, trastornos de comer y anxiedad. Aqui, yo te escucho! I also love working with young men/boys and individuals who have developmental disabilities and Autism.
I work with individuals and/or families who struggle to find hope, balance or freedom from fear in its many forms. I enjoy creating a strong connection with my clients and cater my sessions towards their needs and ways of learning. Tambien hablo espanol y mis clientes ideales son aqellos quien estan frustrado con la vida, o chico/as quien tiene desafios como depression, trastornos de comer y anxiedad. Aqui, yo te escucho! I also love working with young men/boys and individuals who have developmental disabilities and Autism.
![Photo of Fran Peterson, MEd , CAGS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a49a2d11-cd09-4e33-957d-3be2ace58769/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new clients ages 4 years old to 10 years old in office sessions. As well as continued support on line for teens and adults. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Therapy. I work with adults who suffer from major depression, generalized anxiety as well as other diagnoses. I specialize in working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I work with children of all ages and I am strong in Behavioral Therapy and can help with strategies to deal with the difficulties of tantrums and meltdowns. Finally, I use humor in all areas of work, as life can be tough and sometimes you just need to laugh.
I am accepting new clients ages 4 years old to 10 years old in office sessions. As well as continued support on line for teens and adults. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Therapy. I work with adults who suffer from major depression, generalized anxiety as well as other diagnoses. I specialize in working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I work with children of all ages and I am strong in Behavioral Therapy and can help with strategies to deal with the difficulties of tantrums and meltdowns. Finally, I use humor in all areas of work, as life can be tough and sometimes you just need to laugh.
![Photo of Deborah Madison Muench, PhD, BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c12d5d89-ad54-4de6-87d9-d189ffc8f0f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and mood disorders, as well as working with high functioning individuals with autism.
Mental health problems diminish the quality of your life, but with the necessary tools in place, you can manage your difficulties with greater ease. I strive to help each client to live their best life. I work with adults, children and teens. A good part of my practice is devoted to working with college and graduate students, and adults with autism. My passion for helping others has spanned over 30 years. I am a licensed clinical and school psychologist, as well as a board-certified behavior analyst. I am licensed in 39 states through Psypact which is helpful when my clients travel for business or attend school out of state.
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and mood disorders, as well as working with high functioning individuals with autism.
Mental health problems diminish the quality of your life, but with the necessary tools in place, you can manage your difficulties with greater ease. I strive to help each client to live their best life. I work with adults, children and teens. A good part of my practice is devoted to working with college and graduate students, and adults with autism. My passion for helping others has spanned over 30 years. I am a licensed clinical and school psychologist, as well as a board-certified behavior analyst. I am licensed in 39 states through Psypact which is helpful when my clients travel for business or attend school out of state.
![Photo of Meg Manning, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d343714-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in autism diagnostic evaluations and neurodevelopmental assessments of toddlers and preschool children. I also conduct neuropsychological assessment for school age children for a wide range of concerns including ADHD, learning disorders, communication disorders, and social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. I also attend school IEP meetings, conduct classroom observations, provide parent consultation, and follow children over time as needed.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in autism diagnostic evaluations and neurodevelopmental assessments of toddlers and preschool children. I also conduct neuropsychological assessment for school age children for a wide range of concerns including ADHD, learning disorders, communication disorders, and social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. I also attend school IEP meetings, conduct classroom observations, provide parent consultation, and follow children over time as needed.
![Photo of Arielle Speer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a105932b-3abf-49c5-af08-312926b7d3d0/2/320x400.png)
Arielle Speer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
I have been working with the autistic and neurodivergent community for over 10 years. I have found that my own personal identification of being autistic and having a 20 year old child with autism has made working with other autistic individuals successful and rewarding. I pride myself on my creativity and ability to meet a client where they are at and find new ways to help clients reach their goals.
I have been working with the autistic and neurodivergent community for over 10 years. I have found that my own personal identification of being autistic and having a 20 year old child with autism has made working with other autistic individuals successful and rewarding. I pride myself on my creativity and ability to meet a client where they are at and find new ways to help clients reach their goals.
![Photo of Stephen Nadel, LICSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/987f3493-380a-4e5c-8530-b593cb269ede/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Nadel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Our group practice, Prosper Health, focuses exclusively on autistic adults. I have unique experience with autism, being someone who has studied the subject at Boston University (Doctorate in Education and Master's in Social Work), having experience working with such clients for 12 years, and having raised a son with autism (many years as a single parent).
Our group practice, Prosper Health, focuses exclusively on autistic adults. I have unique experience with autism, being someone who has studied the subject at Boston University (Doctorate in Education and Master's in Social Work), having experience working with such clients for 12 years, and having raised a son with autism (many years as a single parent).
![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 Kimberly Trainor, PsyD, NCSP, LEP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09567c31-0891-4e50-bb14-dcf2404cba98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Does your child have trouble with attention, managing their emotions or behavior, or learning at school or at home? As a doctoral-level licensed educational psychologist, I can help by providing therapy and/or comprehensive psychological or psycho-educational assessments to better understand their strengths and weaknesses. Through evaluations, I can provide specific treatment recommendations for issues such as ADHD, autism, learning disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. In therapy, I can help children and teens develop positive coping, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Does your child have trouble with attention, managing their emotions or behavior, or learning at school or at home? As a doctoral-level licensed educational psychologist, I can help by providing therapy and/or comprehensive psychological or psycho-educational assessments to better understand their strengths and weaknesses. Through evaluations, I can provide specific treatment recommendations for issues such as ADHD, autism, learning disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. In therapy, I can help children and teens develop positive coping, communication, and problem-solving skills.
![Photo of Erica L Whyte, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ad4122e-d9d8-404e-9484-79d7e1546c78/1/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 17 years of experience in residential schools and outreach mental health clinics. I use a mix of therapeutic treatment modalities, including CBT, ABA, Humanistic, Rogerian, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing. I treat anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD, OCD, ODD, reactive attachment, and other related issues, conditions, and disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 17 years of experience in residential schools and outreach mental health clinics. I use a mix of therapeutic treatment modalities, including CBT, ABA, Humanistic, Rogerian, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing. I treat anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD, OCD, ODD, reactive attachment, and other related issues, conditions, and disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Jill Damon-Minow Neuropsychologist, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01c22d2c-a9fb-4337-a6f3-f5eebbb6d0a7/3/320x400.png)
Dr. Jill Damon-Minow Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
Dr. Damon-Minow specializes in pediatric and young adult neuropsychological assessments, autism evaluations, developmental assessments, ADHD evaluations, and others. She works with children and adult individuals who may be struggling with their cognition (e.g. memory, attention), social functioning, behavior, emotions, school or job functioning, and more. The goal of these evaluations is not simply to provide a diagnosis, but to assist clients and families in understanding their children or themselves, and to provide specific recommendations for how they can reach their goals.
Dr. Damon-Minow specializes in pediatric and young adult neuropsychological assessments, autism evaluations, developmental assessments, ADHD evaluations, and others. She works with children and adult individuals who may be struggling with their cognition (e.g. memory, attention), social functioning, behavior, emotions, school or job functioning, and more. The goal of these evaluations is not simply to provide a diagnosis, but to assist clients and families in understanding their children or themselves, and to provide specific recommendations for how they can reach their goals.
![Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, EdD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ac7b93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
15 Second Videos
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![Photo of Cassidy Steinbrecher, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea8831d-ddc0-4ecc-bdbb-0a62faaadcda/3/320x400.png)
Do you struggle with getting tasks done? Are you chronically late to classes or meetings? Are you disorganized, forgetful, or constantly misplacing items? Executive Functioning Coaching is for you! Executive functions are cognitive skills that are critical in managing daily life and achieving goals. Individuals can struggle with these skills for a number of reasons, including life transitions (e.g. going to college, first jobs), stress, or a number of different diagnoses (e.g. anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism). Problems with EF skills can negatively impact schooling, career, and relationships.
Do you struggle with getting tasks done? Are you chronically late to classes or meetings? Are you disorganized, forgetful, or constantly misplacing items? Executive Functioning Coaching is for you! Executive functions are cognitive skills that are critical in managing daily life and achieving goals. Individuals can struggle with these skills for a number of reasons, including life transitions (e.g. going to college, first jobs), stress, or a number of different diagnoses (e.g. anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism). Problems with EF skills can negatively impact schooling, career, and relationships.
![Photo of Claudia P Osorio - Dr Claudia P Osorio Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/393b14a7-bc84-4253-8b0a-7f7d8e3f766b/1/320x400.png)
Providing Answers on Your Journey! At Dr. Claudia P. Osorio Psychological Services, we provide comprehensive psychological assessments to clients ages 7 through adulthood to address concerns regarding neurodevelopmental disorders and psychiatric disorders. Specifically, we assess concerns with OCD, ADHD, ASD (autism/ Asperger's), mood disorders, social-emotional, memory, executive functioning, IQ functioning, among many other diagnoses.
Providing Answers on Your Journey! At Dr. Claudia P. Osorio Psychological Services, we provide comprehensive psychological assessments to clients ages 7 through adulthood to address concerns regarding neurodevelopmental disorders and psychiatric disorders. Specifically, we assess concerns with OCD, ADHD, ASD (autism/ Asperger's), mood disorders, social-emotional, memory, executive functioning, IQ functioning, among many other diagnoses.
![Photo of Emily Hogan, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/590e9c65-7ec9-428f-8285-49b1a7e2b2e3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Hogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01610 (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, 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 perinatal mental health specialist 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, 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 perinatal mental health specialist and can support you in all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
![Photo of Lisa A Sullivan, MA, CAGS, LMHC, CBIS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc0fb31c-b9b6-4a23-a11f-861ce20c5fdd/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical therapist licensed in Massachusetts for 29 years as a clinical psychotherapist. I provide telehealth and in person therapy. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including Trauma, Anxiety. Addiction, developmental disability, Autism, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, Parenting skills, OCD, Brain Injury, Children and Adolescents Therapy, Behavioral Management, Substance abuse, Dysmorphia and couple's therapy. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
I am a clinical therapist licensed in Massachusetts for 29 years as a clinical psychotherapist. I provide telehealth and in person therapy. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including Trauma, Anxiety. Addiction, developmental disability, Autism, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, Parenting skills, OCD, Brain Injury, Children and Adolescents Therapy, Behavioral Management, Substance abuse, Dysmorphia and couple's therapy. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
![Photo of Greg O'Rourke, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d216fd-71f2-49a5-bdbb-e04208d864a1/1/320x400.png)
Greg O'Rourke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with relationship issues, despression, grief, autism (including what used to be called Asperger's Syndrome), OCD, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD or perhaps the stress from significant life changes? You're not alone. We often face these challenges and search for effective ways to cope and seek a life where we can feel truly at peace and fulfilled. Together, we'll explore strategies to manage your emotions and daily stresses, aiming to unlock deep self-compassion and resilience. This journey is about empowering you to live confidently and realize your dreams, providing the support you need every step of the way.
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with relationship issues, despression, grief, autism (including what used to be called Asperger's Syndrome), OCD, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD or perhaps the stress from significant life changes? You're not alone. We often face these challenges and search for effective ways to cope and seek a life where we can feel truly at peace and fulfilled. Together, we'll explore strategies to manage your emotions and daily stresses, aiming to unlock deep self-compassion and resilience. This journey is about empowering you to live confidently and realize your dreams, providing the support you need every step of the way.
![Photo of Keri Woodward, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa6fa5dd-e9eb-4e24-9840-d3e1b3dbf15e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keri Woodward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01606 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Keri. I enjoy working with Pre-Teens, Teens, Adolescents, and Adults. I provide individual psychotherapy for issues related to ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety/OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Body Image/Body Positivity, Maternal Mental Health (PPA/PPD), Relational Conflict, and life transitions. If you've been trying to gain as much control over your life as possible due to other chronic mental illness, I am here for you!
Hi! I'm Keri. I enjoy working with Pre-Teens, Teens, Adolescents, and Adults. I provide individual psychotherapy for issues related to ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety/OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Body Image/Body Positivity, Maternal Mental Health (PPA/PPD), Relational Conflict, and life transitions. If you've been trying to gain as much control over your life as possible due to other chronic mental illness, I am here for you!
![Photo of Tyler Pietras - Lighthouse Educational Assessments LLC, LEP, NCSP, EdS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43336f0a-e529-4aff-9c28-757f6d8edf1d/1/320x400.png)
Lighthouse Educational Assessments LLC
Educational Psychologist, LEP, NCSP, EdS
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01601
I specialize in assessing learning disabilities, complex social-emotional needs / trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and more.
I work with students of all ages and their families, from preschool to college, who are looking for either special education in grade school or accommodations for higher education. I provide consultation, advocacy, and psychoeducational evaluation services designed to meet the needs of my clients and properly represent their concerns for all involved parties. If you are a parent who is concerned that your child may have a learning disability, that your child's needs are not being met by their school, or a college student concerned about being able to keep up with your college's curriculum, I can help!
I specialize in assessing learning disabilities, complex social-emotional needs / trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and more.
I work with students of all ages and their families, from preschool to college, who are looking for either special education in grade school or accommodations for higher education. I provide consultation, advocacy, and psychoeducational evaluation services designed to meet the needs of my clients and properly represent their concerns for all involved parties. If you are a parent who is concerned that your child may have a learning disability, that your child's needs are not being met by their school, or a college student concerned about being able to keep up with your college's curriculum, I can help!
![Photo of Brittany Godden, LMHC, SAC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4b6777-61d6-468d-a235-89297ce6083d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Godden
Counselor, LMHC, SAC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01601 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a neuro-affirming therapist, who specializes in working with children and teens with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have experience working with children and youth in clinical and educational settings including as an outpatient therapist, school-based therapist, early childhood mental health consultant, school counselor, and as a therapeutic mentor. I also work closely with parents and caregivers as they learn more about the unique ways their child interacts with their world, which can also include advising or advocating for school services if your child is currently struggling in school.
I am a neuro-affirming therapist, who specializes in working with children and teens with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have experience working with children and youth in clinical and educational settings including as an outpatient therapist, school-based therapist, early childhood mental health consultant, school counselor, and as a therapeutic mentor. I also work closely with parents and caregivers as they learn more about the unique ways their child interacts with their world, which can also include advising or advocating for school services if your child is currently struggling in school.
![Photo of Molly Martone, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a1e480d-c3d5-4584-979a-0533dffab176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate in-network availability, please click website to book. As a seasoned mental health counselor, I bring over 15 years of experience to my practice, helping adults navigate through life's challenges. With a calm, humorous, empathetic and laid-back approach, I strive to create a nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors free from judgment. I have experience working in a variety of settings, with individuals struggling with substance abuse, severe mental illness, chronic health conditions, intellectual disabilities, autism/ADHD, depression and anxiety with a variety of age ranges.
Immediate in-network availability, please click website to book. As a seasoned mental health counselor, I bring over 15 years of experience to my practice, helping adults navigate through life's challenges. With a calm, humorous, empathetic and laid-back approach, I strive to create a nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors free from judgment. I have experience working in a variety of settings, with individuals struggling with substance abuse, severe mental illness, chronic health conditions, intellectual disabilities, autism/ADHD, depression and anxiety with a variety of age ranges.
See more therapy options for Worcester
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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.