Autism Therapists in Scarborough, ME
![Photo of Mary Maguire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27920aab-ea38-4cde-a948-6fedfbfb0c23/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual, family and couples counseling. I have been working in the field and as a therapist for more than 10 years. I have extensive training and expertise in working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. I have been nationally trained to provide specific and positive outcome based treatments in areas of trauma, depression, and anxiety. Other areas of interest include anger management, behavioral issues, parenting, relationship issues, chronic pain, grief and women's issues. My approach is collaborative and includes elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal, mindfulness and strength based.
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual, family and couples counseling. I have been working in the field and as a therapist for more than 10 years. I have extensive training and expertise in working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. I have been nationally trained to provide specific and positive outcome based treatments in areas of trauma, depression, and anxiety. Other areas of interest include anger management, behavioral issues, parenting, relationship issues, chronic pain, grief and women's issues. My approach is collaborative and includes elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal, mindfulness and strength based.
![Photo of Mary Cole, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d548ddba-3dd2-4cc5-abbf-8bca6720a7c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Cole
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ME 04074
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a waitlist. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a waitlist. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
![Photo of Rebecca L Mylroie, LCPC-c, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbd4bfa1-0199-4a20-ad69-33a7b8972260/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca L Mylroie
Counselor, LCPC-c, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ME 04070 (Online Only)
She/ Her- Mainecare or Private pay only Availability: Currently, there is a waitlist but feel free to reach out and let me know if you're interested in teletherapy or in-person sessions! People often tell us to manage our lives as if we have learned every strategy and read every book. Nobody knows everything, and you cannot expect yourself to navigate life as if you do. Counseling has the ability to help you gain or refine skill sets to maneuver daily life, mental health, and significant life events.
She/ Her- Mainecare or Private pay only Availability: Currently, there is a waitlist but feel free to reach out and let me know if you're interested in teletherapy or in-person sessions! People often tell us to manage our lives as if we have learned every strategy and read every book. Nobody knows everything, and you cannot expect yourself to navigate life as if you do. Counseling has the ability to help you gain or refine skill sets to maneuver daily life, mental health, and significant life events.
![Photo of Morgan Wallingford, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f4f0470-e4af-45bb-b642-d95a4c4ca711/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am in the process of credentialing with additional health insurance from Anthem/BCBS and Harvard Pilgrim. I provide treatment for individuals with mental health and disabilities. My intention is to help each one of my clients discover what they want out of life and to become the best version of themselves. Opening up to a stranger can be a challenge, I strive to promote equality in sessions and help individuals to advocate for themselves.
I am in the process of credentialing with additional health insurance from Anthem/BCBS and Harvard Pilgrim. I provide treatment for individuals with mental health and disabilities. My intention is to help each one of my clients discover what they want out of life and to become the best version of themselves. Opening up to a stranger can be a challenge, I strive to promote equality in sessions and help individuals to advocate for themselves.
![Photo of Heather Pollard, LCSW, CCTP, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0d845f-c64d-4638-ac1f-079e82cb25b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04074
Waitlist for new clients
New Client availability is mostly online. Limited in person. Welcome. I am happy that you are considering yourself and thinking about your needs. Despite challenges, I do believe that the first goal has already been met in that you are seeking support. This, I realize, is not always easy. I assure you progress starts here, in this step, and in your consideration to yourself. It would be my pleasure and privilege to support you.
New Client availability is mostly online. Limited in person. Welcome. I am happy that you are considering yourself and thinking about your needs. Despite challenges, I do believe that the first goal has already been met in that you are seeking support. This, I realize, is not always easy. I assure you progress starts here, in this step, and in your consideration to yourself. It would be my pleasure and privilege to support you.
![Photo of Kristen D Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be0ff888-0605-4003-956f-e3b67cd9818e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen D Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarborough, ME 04074 (Online Only)
I often hear my clients tell me that they feel lost, sad, and hopeless. They are people from all different situations and are looking for meaning, connection, and help deciding what they want to do next. Life can be hard and scary, but by working together to understand trauma and what is impacting you, you will start to decide on solutions that feel good. You are taking the first step now, and you don't have to do this alone.
I often hear my clients tell me that they feel lost, sad, and hopeless. They are people from all different situations and are looking for meaning, connection, and help deciding what they want to do next. Life can be hard and scary, but by working together to understand trauma and what is impacting you, you will start to decide on solutions that feel good. You are taking the first step now, and you don't have to do this alone.
![Photo of Jessica Welch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18fb40d3-6446-4fa0-a2e7-1e4651463366/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04070
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with people who find themselves at a fork in the road; at that place in life where they are ready to act or think differently or find themselves struggling to function when life becomes different. I have a passion for supporting cancer survivors and their families throughout the many stages of treatment including diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivorship and grief. I also have spent a great deal of my career working with neurodivergent folks navigating the unique challenges of functioning in a neurotypical world. If any of this resonates with you, we may be a good fit.
I enjoy working with people who find themselves at a fork in the road; at that place in life where they are ready to act or think differently or find themselves struggling to function when life becomes different. I have a passion for supporting cancer survivors and their families throughout the many stages of treatment including diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivorship and grief. I also have spent a great deal of my career working with neurodivergent folks navigating the unique challenges of functioning in a neurotypical world. If any of this resonates with you, we may be a good fit.
![Photo of Donna L Andrews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7a934ba-df0f-4932-8633-9ae71d6142a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Donna L Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04074
Not accepting new clients
I am a seasoned clinician with a relaxed and respectful approach. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to address the issues that are holding them back or getting in their way. Depression, Anxiety, Divorce, Relationship issues, Parenting, Adjustment issues, and Issues of Childhood. Therapy is an interactive process. You are the expert in your own life and experience. You will be treated as a unique individual, not a diagnosis. I give honest and direct feedback with minimal quiet nodding, (unless required).
I am a seasoned clinician with a relaxed and respectful approach. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to address the issues that are holding them back or getting in their way. Depression, Anxiety, Divorce, Relationship issues, Parenting, Adjustment issues, and Issues of Childhood. Therapy is an interactive process. You are the expert in your own life and experience. You will be treated as a unique individual, not a diagnosis. I give honest and direct feedback with minimal quiet nodding, (unless required).
![Photo of Laura R Slap-Shelton, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36705515-b679-4804-b22d-fbd5a6b6376d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura R Slap-Shelton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04070
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, trauma or depression? Are you looking for help with coping with symptoms that prevent you from achieving your goals and living your life to the fullest?
Are you struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, trauma or depression? Are you looking for help with coping with symptoms that prevent you from achieving your goals and living your life to the fullest?
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Skye Clark, LPC, MHSP, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0cb8f3-2f8e-459f-a128-52bef2e3ef70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Skye Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102 (Online Only)
I work with autism in adults, individuals with trauma history, individuals in the music industry, and the LBGTQI+ community.
Accepting new virtual clients in Tennessee and Maine! You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy, in fact, you deserve it! Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
I work with autism in adults, individuals with trauma history, individuals in the music industry, and the LBGTQI+ community.
Accepting new virtual clients in Tennessee and Maine! You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy, in fact, you deserve it! Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
![Photo of Lisa Dube - Merrimack River Wellness, Lisa Dube, LICSW, LICSW, She, Her, Hers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e00e64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Merrimack River Wellness, Lisa Dube, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, She, Her, Hers
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Licensed in MA, ME, CT & NH. (E-mail is the quickest way to reach me) Please note that I do not have openings for ongoing therapy, but maintain short-term space for parents, families, and individuals seeking guidance/understanding around gender identity and/or neurodivergence, hormone/surgery letters, as well as several groups for these communities. I specialize in gender identity, autism/neurodivergence, and parent coaching. I practice from the IFS model, and integrate Virtual Sand Tray, where appropriate, to create a visual representation of each person's unique system.
Licensed in MA, ME, CT & NH. (E-mail is the quickest way to reach me) Please note that I do not have openings for ongoing therapy, but maintain short-term space for parents, families, and individuals seeking guidance/understanding around gender identity and/or neurodivergence, hormone/surgery letters, as well as several groups for these communities. I specialize in gender identity, autism/neurodivergence, and parent coaching. I practice from the IFS model, and integrate Virtual Sand Tray, where appropriate, to create a visual representation of each person's unique system.
![Photo of Charlie O'Rourke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401c6574-7cb7-4480-91b3-6c00728f6843/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie O'Rourke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have worked within mental health agencies and in the public school system for 20 years supporting children and their caregivers through a wide range of challenges including adult-child conflict, depression, anxiety, other mental health diagnoses, ADHD, autism spectrum challenges, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have worked within mental health agencies and in the public school system for 20 years supporting children and their caregivers through a wide range of challenges including adult-child conflict, depression, anxiety, other mental health diagnoses, ADHD, autism spectrum challenges, and trauma.
![Photo of Jeffrey Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd9622df-8c29-431f-b900-94cc859cd4c0/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
![Photo of Sierra Wait, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66f2dc5f-506f-4fbf-878b-5982d1405889/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in conducting psychological/neuropsychological evaluations used for diagnosing a variety of disorders, including: Intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, specific learning disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, and more.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. I am taking new patients for both therapy and psychological evaluations. I am accepting virtual therapy patients throughout the state of Maine and in-person patients at my office in Blue Hill for therapy and evaluations. I utilize a variety of approaches based on patient needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, exposure-based interventions, solution-focused approaches and trauma-informed treatment. I believe it is important to treat the whole person and not just the diagnosis, so we will also explore factors related to overall well-being.
I have expertise in conducting psychological/neuropsychological evaluations used for diagnosing a variety of disorders, including: Intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, specific learning disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, and more.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. I am taking new patients for both therapy and psychological evaluations. I am accepting virtual therapy patients throughout the state of Maine and in-person patients at my office in Blue Hill for therapy and evaluations. I utilize a variety of approaches based on patient needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, exposure-based interventions, solution-focused approaches and trauma-informed treatment. I believe it is important to treat the whole person and not just the diagnosis, so we will also explore factors related to overall well-being.
![Photo of Amber Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35eb887d-899f-449c-8a43-fb347d8b50d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107 (Online Only)
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
![Photo of Maddalena (Maddy) Chiappetta, LMSW-CC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15452f81-2cb0-406c-b327-3e2b5adceb00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maddalena (Maddy) Chiappetta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
My purpose is to create a consistent, trauma-informed setting where we connect, share, and grow. My therapeutic concentrations include anxiety & depression, ADHD, the autism spectrum, educational challenges, aging, and stress related to government & policy. I am a believer in using creative methods such as drawing, painting, and music to get our minds moving. I am especially a believer in the power of fresh air and am likely to ask if you would be interested in meeting in the park on a nice day. I love riding my bicycle and do sewing in my free time.
My purpose is to create a consistent, trauma-informed setting where we connect, share, and grow. My therapeutic concentrations include anxiety & depression, ADHD, the autism spectrum, educational challenges, aging, and stress related to government & policy. I am a believer in using creative methods such as drawing, painting, and music to get our minds moving. I am especially a believer in the power of fresh air and am likely to ask if you would be interested in meeting in the park on a nice day. I love riding my bicycle and do sewing in my free time.
![Photo of Caitlin Nay, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edd64648-dc04-40ac-97d4-5a1c2634633d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Her expertise extends to providing support for clients with Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD, helping them navigate the challenges these conditions present.
Caitlin Nay, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, offers compassionate and expert mental health support to individuals throughout Maine. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, Caitlin collaborates with her clients to create a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment. This foundation of trust and understanding allows her to effectively support clients in meeting their unique individual goals. Caitlin serves a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, and adults. Caitlin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Her expertise extends to providing support for clients with Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD, helping them navigate the challenges these conditions present.
Caitlin Nay, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, offers compassionate and expert mental health support to individuals throughout Maine. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, Caitlin collaborates with her clients to create a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment. This foundation of trust and understanding allows her to effectively support clients in meeting their unique individual goals. Caitlin serves a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, and adults. Caitlin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
![Photo of Sheila A Balog - Sheila A. Balog, Ph.D, P.C., PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de6c176-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila A. Balog, Ph.D, P.C.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological evaluations of children, adolescents and adults. Areas of expertise include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyslexia, Nonverbal Learning Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Gifted and Talented, and psychiatric disorders.
I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological evaluations of children, adolescents and adults. Areas of expertise include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyslexia, Nonverbal Learning Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Gifted and Talented, and psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Colby Williams - Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4151a84d-6d60-47a0-87b2-95fd53ac8951/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
![Photo of Margo K Mahoney, LMSW cc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8ce502d-ba66-44c3-ac5d-1b85adeec60d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margo K Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW cc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Biddeford, ME 04005
I focus primarily on positive relational issues, low self esteem, various mood disorders as well as Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self concept, as well as Trauma and all types of abuse issues.
My desire is to journey together discovering and uncovering needs in a non-judgmental format. My premise is that the client, you, have choices. I work on dealing with positivity and positive changes. A therapeutic relationship is the primary goal and then we, together can work on the journey toward creating a plan for you. This journey will be one of trust, open communication, respect, and empathy to name a few. Understanding and knowing each person has differing needs, no two clients are ever approached or treated the same. You are uniquely you and I respect and honor your journey.
I focus primarily on positive relational issues, low self esteem, various mood disorders as well as Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self concept, as well as Trauma and all types of abuse issues.
My desire is to journey together discovering and uncovering needs in a non-judgmental format. My premise is that the client, you, have choices. I work on dealing with positivity and positive changes. A therapeutic relationship is the primary goal and then we, together can work on the journey toward creating a plan for you. This journey will be one of trust, open communication, respect, and empathy to name a few. Understanding and knowing each person has differing needs, no two clients are ever approached or treated the same. You are uniquely you and I respect and honor your journey.
See more therapy options for Scarborough
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Scarborough
- Biddeford
- Cape Elizabeth
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Gorham
- Kennebunk
- Old Orchard Beach
- Portland
- Saco
- South Portland
- Westbrook
- Yarmouth
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.