Autism Therapists in Fulton, MD

Photo of Brittany Marie McCartan - Overthinking Wellness, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Overthinking Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Fulton, MD 20759  (Online Only)
Overthinking Wellness specializes in exploring, treating, and managing anxiety, ADHD/ autism, big life changes, neurodivergence, emotional dysregulation, oppositional behaviors, and executive dysfunction.
Overthinking Wellness specializes in exploring, treating, and managing anxiety, ADHD/ autism, big life changes, neurodivergence, emotional dysregulation, oppositional behaviors, and executive dysfunction.
(443) 720-7262 View (443) 720-7262
Photo of Natalie Schuberth, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Natalie Schuberth
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Fulton, MD 20759
If you are struggling to cope with stress and anxiety from past or ongoing difficulties (such as school/work stress, friendship/relationship problems, bullying, or family dynamics), I can help you process and problem-solve your experiences and offer a path forward. This includes learning coping skills and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as examining thought and behavior patterns. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to help them be the best version of themselves by helping them to identify their goals and to leverage their strengths to meet those goals.
If you are struggling to cope with stress and anxiety from past or ongoing difficulties (such as school/work stress, friendship/relationship problems, bullying, or family dynamics), I can help you process and problem-solve your experiences and offer a path forward. This includes learning coping skills and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as examining thought and behavior patterns. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to help them be the best version of themselves by helping them to identify their goals and to leverage their strengths to meet those goals.
(202) 980-2899 View (202) 980-2899
Photo of Sophia Rizvi, LCPC, Counselor
Sophia Rizvi
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fulton, MD 20759  (Online Only)
You feel like your anxiety is getting the best of you and feel like you no longer have control over your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. You are noticing that even when you try to take a break and focus on yourself, that your breath catches in your chest and then you feel it…the anxiety. You have a difficult time sleeping at night because you worry about the course of events that took place that day and the laundry list of things you have to do tomorrow. Worries such as: “Did I make a mistake at work?” “What did that person think of me?” “Am I being a good Partner/Parent/Friend” swirl like a tornado in your mind.
You feel like your anxiety is getting the best of you and feel like you no longer have control over your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. You are noticing that even when you try to take a break and focus on yourself, that your breath catches in your chest and then you feel it…the anxiety. You have a difficult time sleeping at night because you worry about the course of events that took place that day and the laundry list of things you have to do tomorrow. Worries such as: “Did I make a mistake at work?” “What did that person think of me?” “Am I being a good Partner/Parent/Friend” swirl like a tornado in your mind.
(240) 360-1744 View (240) 360-1744
Photo of Donalee Watson Dwyer, LCPC, Counselor
Donalee Watson Dwyer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Fulton, MD 20759  (Online Only)
Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes, the downs can become so overwhelming when we are tackling life’s obstacles on our own, or with limited resources and support. I want you to know that you are not alone! We have all had struggles; I can certainly relate to that! Know that there is hope and the possibility for change exists if we really want it. I am Donalee Watson-Dwyer, LCPC, and I am currently a therapist with ROH Mental Health and Wellness Services, LLC, where our focus is on providing a ray of hope in seemingly hopeless situations.
Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes, the downs can become so overwhelming when we are tackling life’s obstacles on our own, or with limited resources and support. I want you to know that you are not alone! We have all had struggles; I can certainly relate to that! Know that there is hope and the possibility for change exists if we really want it. I am Donalee Watson-Dwyer, LCPC, and I am currently a therapist with ROH Mental Health and Wellness Services, LLC, where our focus is on providing a ray of hope in seemingly hopeless situations.
(240) 913-6985 View (240) 913-6985
Photo of Mindy Navarro, LCPC, Counselor
Mindy Navarro
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fulton, MD 20759  (Online Only)
I feel that creating a warm and compassionate environment where people are able to feel safe expressing their true selves needs to be a priority in order for individuals to reach their therapeutic goals. I will work with you to improve coping skills and gain insight into the areas of your life you are struggling with. I have worked as a mental health therapist in various settings such as community, residential, intensive outpatient, and correctional facilities. I have treated diverse populations with a variety of concerns, including those with co-occurring disorders.
I feel that creating a warm and compassionate environment where people are able to feel safe expressing their true selves needs to be a priority in order for individuals to reach their therapeutic goals. I will work with you to improve coping skills and gain insight into the areas of your life you are struggling with. I have worked as a mental health therapist in various settings such as community, residential, intensive outpatient, and correctional facilities. I have treated diverse populations with a variety of concerns, including those with co-occurring disorders.
(443) 499-9795 View (443) 499-9795

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
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.
(617) 214-1011 View (617) 214-1011
Photo of Devetta Wilson, LCPC
Devetta Wilson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elkridge, MD 21075  (Online Only)
I have vast experience working with issues such as mood disorders, trauma disorders, substance use disorders, perinatal issues, life transitions, and Autism (ASD).
When working with clients I focus on providing a safe, supportive environment for them to reach their therapeutic goals. I believe that it is necessary to take a holistic approach when assessing and implementing appropriate strategies and interventions, as there is not a one-size fits all treatment approach. During the consultation, we discuss your needs and goals and decide whether my expertise will be a good fit for you.
I have vast experience working with issues such as mood disorders, trauma disorders, substance use disorders, perinatal issues, life transitions, and Autism (ASD).
When working with clients I focus on providing a safe, supportive environment for them to reach their therapeutic goals. I believe that it is necessary to take a holistic approach when assessing and implementing appropriate strategies and interventions, as there is not a one-size fits all treatment approach. During the consultation, we discuss your needs and goals and decide whether my expertise will be a good fit for you.
(443) 267-9593 View (443) 267-9593
Photo of Ashley Smith-Nonnarath, MS, BCBA, LBA
Ashley Smith-Nonnarath
MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Does your child have a diagnosis of autism? Are you looking for data driven yet warm and caring ABA services? Our goal is to meet your child where they are and create goals that matter to them. A focus on the family as a unit is important in the development of the child. A strong emphasis is placed on caregiver consultation while targeting goals for the child. Finding help that you trust is a necessary step in creating positive long term outcomes.
Does your child have a diagnosis of autism? Are you looking for data driven yet warm and caring ABA services? Our goal is to meet your child where they are and create goals that matter to them. A focus on the family as a unit is important in the development of the child. A strong emphasis is placed on caregiver consultation while targeting goals for the child. Finding help that you trust is a necessary step in creating positive long term outcomes.
(301) 231-1740 View (301) 231-1740
Photo of Sophie Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
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.
(410) 453-8449 View (410) 453-8449
Photo of Deija McLean, PhD, BCBA, Psychologist
Deija McLean
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
With immediate service availability for both Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorder evaluations and family-centered therapy, I am here to guide and support your family every step of the way.
Don’t wait months or join waiting lists—begin your child’s journey to enhanced support today! We offer deferred interest financing: no interest if paid within 12 months. Many families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Learning Disorders face challenges. I support these families by helping parents and children enhance adaptive skills and reduce behaviors that hinder life quality. I serve clients with conditions including Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Developmental Disorder, Learning Disorders, and Down Syndrome.
With immediate service availability for both Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorder evaluations and family-centered therapy, I am here to guide and support your family every step of the way.
Don’t wait months or join waiting lists—begin your child’s journey to enhanced support today! We offer deferred interest financing: no interest if paid within 12 months. Many families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Learning Disorders face challenges. I support these families by helping parents and children enhance adaptive skills and reduce behaviors that hinder life quality. I serve clients with conditions including Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Developmental Disorder, Learning Disorders, and Down Syndrome.
(667) 220-7773 View (667) 220-7773
Photo of Kitty Martin, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kitty Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Highland, MD 20777
Psychoeducational evaluations can be used to detect learning differences and possibly contribute to accommodations in school or toward a 504/IEP. Our testing also detects signs of anxiety or depression. Psychological evaluations can be conducted to diagnose ADHD, autism, and other disorders of childhood.
Psychoeducational evaluations can be used to detect learning differences and possibly contribute to accommodations in school or toward a 504/IEP. Our testing also detects signs of anxiety or depression. Psychological evaluations can be conducted to diagnose ADHD, autism, and other disorders of childhood.
View
Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Ascolese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
(240) 660-4048 View (240) 660-4048
Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Ascolese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
(240) 660-4259 View (240) 660-4259
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
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.
(857) 520-2905 View (857) 520-2905
Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Ascolese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
I also have a great working with individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
(240) 660-4164 View (240) 660-4164
Photo of Allison Sztajer, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Sztajer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I am a Queer-identified Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C). I have worked in multiple settings including non-public therapeutic day schools (ages 5-21), integrative care, and group practice. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming and gender affirming clinician. My areas of expertise include supporting adolescents and young adults that are experiencing a range of issues including gender dysphoria, exploring gender and sexuality, mood disorders, anxiety, autism, anger management, behavioral disorders, emotional regulation, impulsivity, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a Queer-identified Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C). I have worked in multiple settings including non-public therapeutic day schools (ages 5-21), integrative care, and group practice. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming and gender affirming clinician. My areas of expertise include supporting adolescents and young adults that are experiencing a range of issues including gender dysphoria, exploring gender and sexuality, mood disorders, anxiety, autism, anger management, behavioral disorders, emotional regulation, impulsivity, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
(443) 419-4367 View (443) 419-4367
Photo of Brittaney Wood, LPCC, LGPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittaney Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904
After years of working with children with autism in various settings I have found my passion in working with children with autism and their families.
We often feel the need to alter how we present in the world to make others more comfortable but when we find ways to show up more authentically ourselves and communicate with those around us we often find much more joy. I enjoy helping people figure out who they are and how they want to show up in the world. Whether you are interested in strengthening your relationships or planning for the future it can be helpful to explore what is truly you.
After years of working with children with autism in various settings I have found my passion in working with children with autism and their families.
We often feel the need to alter how we present in the world to make others more comfortable but when we find ways to show up more authentically ourselves and communicate with those around us we often find much more joy. I enjoy helping people figure out who they are and how they want to show up in the world. Whether you are interested in strengthening your relationships or planning for the future it can be helpful to explore what is truly you.
(240) 290-6371 View (240) 290-6371
Photo of Christopher DeFranco, LCPC, LPC-S, Counselor
Christopher DeFranco
Counselor, LCPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
(443) 233-1235 View (443) 233-1235
Photo of Caron Starobin, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caron Starobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olney, MD 20832
We have expertise in autism; anxiety; depression; trauma; family conflict; parenting, sibling and peer relationship challenges; sexual issues; self harm; OCD; disordered eating; relationship challenges; and neurodiversity-affirming couples therapy.
Starobin Counseling collectively offers over 30 years of experience providing counseling for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We regard relationships as central to the therapeutic process and help people repair and strengthen their relationships. Some challenges in life are purely personal, but most problems express themselves in the intersections with other people. Therapy helps people understand feelings, listen to their best thinking, and helps people gain new or alternative perspectives. We help people strengthen their own vitality and repair difficult ruptures to unlock their capacity for meaningful connections.
We have expertise in autism; anxiety; depression; trauma; family conflict; parenting, sibling and peer relationship challenges; sexual issues; self harm; OCD; disordered eating; relationship challenges; and neurodiversity-affirming couples therapy.
Starobin Counseling collectively offers over 30 years of experience providing counseling for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We regard relationships as central to the therapeutic process and help people repair and strengthen their relationships. Some challenges in life are purely personal, but most problems express themselves in the intersections with other people. Therapy helps people understand feelings, listen to their best thinking, and helps people gain new or alternative perspectives. We help people strengthen their own vitality and repair difficult ruptures to unlock their capacity for meaningful connections.
(301) 273-7346 View (301) 273-7346
Photo of Dr. Rachael Arowolo - Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations), PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachael Arowolo (Autism Evaluations)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
I conduct evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Functioning/ADHD, Developmental/Cognitive/IQ, and Psychological Disorders.
My name is Rachael Arowolo, PhD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have extensive training and experience in assessment and therapy for a variety of clinical presentations and individualizing these services to meet you and your family’s goals. I am particularly passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and in identifying and emphasizing the strengths in everyone I work with! In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my family, baking, and painting.
(301) 945-7160 View (301) 945-7160

See more therapy options for Fulton

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.