Autism Therapists in Boyds, MD
![Photo of Lenny Smith, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d94f44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Many people find that the process of finding a therapist and enjoying the therapeutic process is tedious and even scary. At Ten Ten Counseling, we make the process simple and easy so that you can get the help you need at a place you want to go. We provide therapy on a gorgeous 100 acre horse farm so that you and your loved ones will be sure to improve your relationships while enjoying great views and privacy. You or your loved one will connect with their therapist on a more comfortable and engaging level than other busy offices can provide.
Many people find that the process of finding a therapist and enjoying the therapeutic process is tedious and even scary. At Ten Ten Counseling, we make the process simple and easy so that you can get the help you need at a place you want to go. We provide therapy on a gorgeous 100 acre horse farm so that you and your loved ones will be sure to improve your relationships while enjoying great views and privacy. You or your loved one will connect with their therapist on a more comfortable and engaging level than other busy offices can provide.
![Photo of Ann Lee, LCSW-C, MDiv, BCN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d74ef9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MDiv, BCN
Verified Verified
Boyds, MD 20841 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of challenges, and some of them feel overwhelming and even impossible. This may be one of the hardest periods of your life or in the life of a child you love. PRHP supports individuals, parents, adolescents, and children in finding healing and greater functioning through mind and body therapies. Together we can work to find healing, deeper understanding and greater functionality for you and those you love. You do not have to go through this time alone. Reach out and find the support you need to heal.
Life is full of challenges, and some of them feel overwhelming and even impossible. This may be one of the hardest periods of your life or in the life of a child you love. PRHP supports individuals, parents, adolescents, and children in finding healing and greater functioning through mind and body therapies. Together we can work to find healing, deeper understanding and greater functionality for you and those you love. You do not have to go through this time alone. Reach out and find the support you need to heal.
![Photo of Jennifer Bugg Wright, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f082d1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Let's focus on your strengths to create the life you want to be living! No matter what ails you: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma... even simpler things, such as relationships, work stress, or finding a more meaningful life... I can provide education, emotional skills, coping strategies, and a compassionate ear. As a CBT and ACT therapist, I use therapy and skill building, looking at the interplay between our beliefs and ideas, our experiences and environment, and our values and choices in life. I also address biopsychological concerns such as sleep, neuropsychological functioning, breathing, and fight or flight responses.
Let's focus on your strengths to create the life you want to be living! No matter what ails you: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma... even simpler things, such as relationships, work stress, or finding a more meaningful life... I can provide education, emotional skills, coping strategies, and a compassionate ear. As a CBT and ACT therapist, I use therapy and skill building, looking at the interplay between our beliefs and ideas, our experiences and environment, and our values and choices in life. I also address biopsychological concerns such as sleep, neuropsychological functioning, breathing, and fight or flight responses.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jessica Hasson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/253bce1d-cfec-4c21-b9b2-9ee82322a768/1/320x400.jpeg)
These include comprehensive psychological evaluations, psychoeducational evaluations, diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, personality assessment, assessment with 2E Individuals, & Child/Adolescent/Adult Autism Evaluations.
Psychological assessment is often perceived as a way to a diagnosis. Assessment certainly can result in a diagnosis and identify areas for intervention. However, a psychological evaluation can do so much more than that. It can bring a sense of explanation to someone’s experience. An evaluation can help the person feel understood, to feel seen. It can further one’s understanding of the self. All of this can help to facilitate change, by identifying patterns and underlying causes of behaviors. Psychological evaluation is therapeutic, it just relies on data and numbers.
These include comprehensive psychological evaluations, psychoeducational evaluations, diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, personality assessment, assessment with 2E Individuals, & Child/Adolescent/Adult Autism Evaluations.
Psychological assessment is often perceived as a way to a diagnosis. Assessment certainly can result in a diagnosis and identify areas for intervention. However, a psychological evaluation can do so much more than that. It can bring a sense of explanation to someone’s experience. An evaluation can help the person feel understood, to feel seen. It can further one’s understanding of the self. All of this can help to facilitate change, by identifying patterns and underlying causes of behaviors. Psychological evaluation is therapeutic, it just relies on data and numbers.
![Photo of Robert Anthony Binger - Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f3e03e6-264e-4420-b7dd-0fcd8b1f72c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex and/or autism. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex and/or autism. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
![Photo of Elizabeth Ann Tsakiris, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f69d296-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a child with autism, special needs, or multiple disabilities? Do you want to understand how your child learns and how to relate to him/her? Do you want to get the best for your child and family-despite any disability? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, I am a good match for your family. I have over 30 years' experience as a psychologist and teacher in schools, homes, and hospitals. I specialize in psychological services for children and young adults with special needs, and their families.
Do you have a child with autism, special needs, or multiple disabilities? Do you want to understand how your child learns and how to relate to him/her? Do you want to get the best for your child and family-despite any disability? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, I am a good match for your family. I have over 30 years' experience as a psychologist and teacher in schools, homes, and hospitals. I specialize in psychological services for children and young adults with special needs, and their families.
![Photo of Kathryn Gargett-Jones, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff114d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.
I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah K Gardner - Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC, PsyD, NCC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae43c48c-779e-4a73-96b0-b8fe3bd24c3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876
Two areas of intensive specialization are in autism and in trauma treatment.
Services provided by neuropsychologists and licensed clinical psychologists, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders ( autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
Two areas of intensive specialization are in autism and in trauma treatment.
Services provided by neuropsychologists and licensed clinical psychologists, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders ( autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
![Photo of Azhia-Lin Thompson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6880e756-23df-4685-944f-5ab51c51cc67/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
![Photo of Alison Dorsky, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498e6983-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Dorsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I often combine visual, video, and interactive social communication strategies in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when working with Autism and similar diagnoses.
I have 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health and school- based settings. As an Autism specialist, I work to increase the understanding of challenges unique to Autism and the ability of individuals and families to cope in positive and productive ways. My work with children and adolescents often includes advocacy and collaboration with schools and other relevant treatment and service providers. I aim to build mutual support and understanding across home, academic, and/or vocational environments.
I often combine visual, video, and interactive social communication strategies in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when working with Autism and similar diagnoses.
I have 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health and school- based settings. As an Autism specialist, I work to increase the understanding of challenges unique to Autism and the ability of individuals and families to cope in positive and productive ways. My work with children and adolescents often includes advocacy and collaboration with schools and other relevant treatment and service providers. I aim to build mutual support and understanding across home, academic, and/or vocational environments.
![Photo of Karey Steiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b597689-fc58-4e91-b457-8b189e9b7f48/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 17 years of experience. During which time I have developed a strong knowledge of child development and sensitivity to the needs of families with children. Currently working with clients who have: ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and anger management concerns. My experience has also included working with people who identify as being on the Autism Spectrum, and adolescents who identify as transgender.
I have over 17 years of experience. During which time I have developed a strong knowledge of child development and sensitivity to the needs of families with children. Currently working with clients who have: ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and anger management concerns. My experience has also included working with people who identify as being on the Autism Spectrum, and adolescents who identify as transgender.
![Photo of Ellen Dye, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b31175e8-d4e0-4139-b241-121687263ec3/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also have a background in treating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism with low support needs, adoption, and "failure to launch" young adults.
I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Duke University and have over thirty years of clinical experience working with adults, children, and families. My postgraduate training is in psychoanalytic, family, and cognitive-behavior therapy. My practice is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed. I have a broad range of experience and treat clients coping with both common life stresses and with major mental illnesses. I enjoy working with complex family situations and with individuals who have not met with success in prior treatment.
I also have a background in treating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism with low support needs, adoption, and "failure to launch" young adults.
I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Duke University and have over thirty years of clinical experience working with adults, children, and families. My postgraduate training is in psychoanalytic, family, and cognitive-behavior therapy. My practice is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed. I have a broad range of experience and treat clients coping with both common life stresses and with major mental illnesses. I enjoy working with complex family situations and with individuals who have not met with success in prior treatment.
![Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62a0008d-4f20-48a5-b554-c45e73e6fb85/2/320x400.png)
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
![Photo of Elizibeth Ayers, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409aaf2f-ddf3-46f8-a123-bdbeeaea6393/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizibeth Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) whose clinical practice includes working with children, families, and adults in a variety of different settings. My background includes supporting individuals with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and autism.
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) whose clinical practice includes working with children, families, and adults in a variety of different settings. My background includes supporting individuals with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and autism.
![Photo of Gertrud Irmgard Classen-Miller - Classen-Miller and Associates, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7c1306-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
![Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/374ac26f-1148-4229-8f70-433783ea2181/2/320x400.png)
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
![Photo of Deborah A Williams, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e09bc6f-fee3-441f-9190-3086c2ddebc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
These assessments include ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, Guardianship, Adoption readiness, and diagnostic clarification.
Whether through therapy or assessment, I strive to excel in my work with each client. A caring relationship and a safe space to be open are the cornerstones to a successful therapeutic experience. I look to provide that tailored experience to each one of my clients, and hope to work with you to aid in your growth and development. My goal is to help you reach your best self, and to improve your happiness.
These assessments include ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, Guardianship, Adoption readiness, and diagnostic clarification.
Whether through therapy or assessment, I strive to excel in my work with each client. A caring relationship and a safe space to be open are the cornerstones to a successful therapeutic experience. I look to provide that tailored experience to each one of my clients, and hope to work with you to aid in your growth and development. My goal is to help you reach your best self, and to improve your happiness.
![Photo of Heather Cheshire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/336e6e10-121b-4afc-bbfd-53a98d28d70b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Heather Cheshire, LCSW-C. I have been a clinical social worker for 13 years. I aim to utilize talk therapy to help support the emotional growth desired by my clients. I believe in building strong relationships to help clients meet their goals. Most of my experience providing therapy has been with middle school, high school, and college aged youth and young adults. I have experience working with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, as well as situational challenges like major life changes and family and relationship issues.
Hi, I'm Heather Cheshire, LCSW-C. I have been a clinical social worker for 13 years. I aim to utilize talk therapy to help support the emotional growth desired by my clients. I believe in building strong relationships to help clients meet their goals. Most of my experience providing therapy has been with middle school, high school, and college aged youth and young adults. I have experience working with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, as well as situational challenges like major life changes and family and relationship issues.
![Photo of Stacie Ratliff - Stacie Ratliff, LCSW-C, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/838d2556-0d1d-4abc-ae98-333b237e339c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacie Ratliff, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clarksburg, MD 20871
Waitlist for new clients
I have been responsible for both the provision of individual and/or family treatment with both adults and children diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD.
If you or your child are struggling with Depression, Anxiety or Behavioral challenges and you are not quite sure where to start, let us begin the journey towards healing together. Are you hoping to find ways for you or your child to learn to both express their emotions and gain insight into them? With over 23 years experience providing mental health services to children, teens and adults, I am here. I will join with you and/or your child as we identify measurable goals towards mental health improvement together. Much of my career has been spent as a Clinical Supervisor at agencies such as Sheppard Pratt Health and Kennedy Krieger.
I have been responsible for both the provision of individual and/or family treatment with both adults and children diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD.
If you or your child are struggling with Depression, Anxiety or Behavioral challenges and you are not quite sure where to start, let us begin the journey towards healing together. Are you hoping to find ways for you or your child to learn to both express their emotions and gain insight into them? With over 23 years experience providing mental health services to children, teens and adults, I am here. I will join with you and/or your child as we identify measurable goals towards mental health improvement together. Much of my career has been spent as a Clinical Supervisor at agencies such as Sheppard Pratt Health and Kennedy Krieger.
![Photo of Brenden Stinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fddfa078-5316-486e-81cd-a94c5d8a601e/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
See more therapy options for Boyds
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Boyds
- Clarksburg
- Darnestown
- Frederick
- Gaithersburg
- Germantown
- Kensington
- Mount Airy
- North Bethesda
- North Potomac
- Olney
- Potomac
- Rockville
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.