Autism Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

Photo of Lio Riley, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lio Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Note: current availability is limited to daytime appointments - Welcome! I’m Lio, a therapist at the Mala Child & Family Institute. I’m dedicated to empowering teens and young adults as they navigate LGBTQ+ identity, disability, Autism (including PDA and high-masking profiles), ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent and queer adult, I know that these experiences are often misunderstood and encounter a range of barriers. I also understand the impact that a safe environment can have on the development of self-worth, self-advocacy, and self-compassion.
Note: current availability is limited to daytime appointments - Welcome! I’m Lio, a therapist at the Mala Child & Family Institute. I’m dedicated to empowering teens and young adults as they navigate LGBTQ+ identity, disability, Autism (including PDA and high-masking profiles), ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent and queer adult, I know that these experiences are often misunderstood and encounter a range of barriers. I also understand the impact that a safe environment can have on the development of self-worth, self-advocacy, and self-compassion.
(734) 441-2388 View (734) 441-2388
Photo of Michael Linkevich, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Linkevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Is something out of balance in your life? With yourself? Your child? Your effectiveness as a parent? Your relationships? Life circumstances/transitions? If it is, please know that my way of practicing is to non-judgmentally understand what is going on--what area of your life is being negatively impacted. Then we can collaboratively work on establishing goals and a treatment plan. Whether it is Anxiety, OCD, Autism (including very young kids with autism), Depression/Bipolar, Behavior Problems, ADHD, Trauma or Insomnia, there is a way for you or your child to feel more in control, grounded and balanced.
Is something out of balance in your life? With yourself? Your child? Your effectiveness as a parent? Your relationships? Life circumstances/transitions? If it is, please know that my way of practicing is to non-judgmentally understand what is going on--what area of your life is being negatively impacted. Then we can collaboratively work on establishing goals and a treatment plan. Whether it is Anxiety, OCD, Autism (including very young kids with autism), Depression/Bipolar, Behavior Problems, ADHD, Trauma or Insomnia, there is a way for you or your child to feel more in control, grounded and balanced.
(734) 800-8440 View (734) 800-8440
Photo of Ethan Milner, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethan Milner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For anyone searching for an ally in approaching the challenges of life, choosing therapy can be a great option. Some of the issues I work on are trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD. I specialize in working with individual adults, adolescents, families (parent-child focus), and athletes. Another specialty is helping individuals and families from adolescence to adulthood in navigating neurodivergence, especially as related to Autism. I welcome folks from any walk of life, though my practice is explicitly anti-racist, LGBTQQ+ positive, disability-conscious, and cognizant of systemic harm. I can also offer affordable LLMSW supervision.
For anyone searching for an ally in approaching the challenges of life, choosing therapy can be a great option. Some of the issues I work on are trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD. I specialize in working with individual adults, adolescents, families (parent-child focus), and athletes. Another specialty is helping individuals and families from adolescence to adulthood in navigating neurodivergence, especially as related to Autism. I welcome folks from any walk of life, though my practice is explicitly anti-racist, LGBTQQ+ positive, disability-conscious, and cognizant of systemic harm. I can also offer affordable LLMSW supervision.
(734) 999-4173 View (734) 999-4173
Photo of Erin Mark - Complete Neuropsychology Services, PhD, Psychologist
Complete Neuropsychology Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
As a mom of a tween with Autism and ADHD, I know how hard it is to find help and how stressful that can be.
We specialize in neuropsychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults, while also providing treatment for anxiety and mood conditions. Do you or a loved one have difficulty at school, work, or with relationships? Are you concerned about your child's social development? Are you wondering if your child has ADHD or a learning disability? Are you concerned about changes with your parent's memory or behavior? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then we can help. - Erin Mark, PhD, Clinic Director
As a mom of a tween with Autism and ADHD, I know how hard it is to find help and how stressful that can be.
We specialize in neuropsychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults, while also providing treatment for anxiety and mood conditions. Do you or a loved one have difficulty at school, work, or with relationships? Are you concerned about your child's social development? Are you wondering if your child has ADHD or a learning disability? Are you concerned about changes with your parent's memory or behavior? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then we can help. - Erin Mark, PhD, Clinic Director
(734) 629-4283 View (734) 629-4283
Photo of Katie Sawchuk, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Katie Sawchuk
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
Located in Ann Arbor, I provide individual and family therapy, psychological testing and consultation services to children, adolescents, young adults and families to help them find direction, support and feel empowered in their every day lives. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My expertise includes providing evidenced-based care for individuals with neurodiversity ( Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD), depression, anxiety, identity development, as well as supportive parent management training. I provide both psychotherapy and ASD testing services.
Located in Ann Arbor, I provide individual and family therapy, psychological testing and consultation services to children, adolescents, young adults and families to help them find direction, support and feel empowered in their every day lives. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My expertise includes providing evidenced-based care for individuals with neurodiversity ( Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD), depression, anxiety, identity development, as well as supportive parent management training. I provide both psychotherapy and ASD testing services.
(734) 807-3254 View (734) 807-3254
Photo of Brian Neau, LMSW, Counselor
Brian Neau
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Brian is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who has a particular passion for helping people to manage ADHD, Autism, and the many issues that can develop because of living with these conditions. He also has experience working with anxiety and mood disorders as well as grief and trauma.
Brian is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who has a particular passion for helping people to manage ADHD, Autism, and the many issues that can develop because of living with these conditions. He also has experience working with anxiety and mood disorders as well as grief and trauma.
(734) 530-4369 View (734) 530-4369
Photo of Melody Montgomery, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melody Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I understand that seeking therapy can be a difficult and vulnerable step, and I am here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I specialize in a variety of issues such as substance abuse, depression, suicidal ideation, autism, developmental disorders, and LGBTQ+ identity. Together, we will work to identify the core cause of your pain and address the challenges you’re facing.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a difficult and vulnerable step, and I am here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I specialize in a variety of issues such as substance abuse, depression, suicidal ideation, autism, developmental disorders, and LGBTQ+ identity. Together, we will work to identify the core cause of your pain and address the challenges you’re facing.
(586) 701-9137 View (586) 701-9137
Photo of Ruth Spalding, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Spalding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I am adding folks to a waitlist for individual therapy at this time. I run a group for Autistic folks who need to peer support and Autistic connection to thrive. My website has more information about dates and time, the next group starts in January. I use a neurodiversity affirming, strengths-based perspective, and an anti-oppressive lens on the reality that we're in a neurotypical world. I would encourage people who are interested in an Autism Assessment to check out my website which has more information.
I am adding folks to a waitlist for individual therapy at this time. I run a group for Autistic folks who need to peer support and Autistic connection to thrive. My website has more information about dates and time, the next group starts in January. I use a neurodiversity affirming, strengths-based perspective, and an anti-oppressive lens on the reality that we're in a neurotypical world. I would encourage people who are interested in an Autism Assessment to check out my website which has more information.
View
Photo of Dr. Erinn Cameron, PhD, DLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Erinn Cameron
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD, DLLP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109  (Online Only)
I also offer an Autism Support Group for Women/AFAB/Trans/Gender Diverse individuals.
I work collaboratively and compassionately from within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Together, we will engage in an empowering experience that will help you move towards the future with confidence. I work with clients to target difficulties associated with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, weight management, tic disorder, binge eating disorder, trauma, and PTSD. I also conduct ADHD & Autism assessments and pre-surgical evaluations. I implement evidence based interventions such as CBT, CPT for PTSD and trauma, Mindfulness, Habit Reversal Training, Somatic Psychotherapy, ERP, DBT Skills, and ACT.
I also offer an Autism Support Group for Women/AFAB/Trans/Gender Diverse individuals.
I work collaboratively and compassionately from within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Together, we will engage in an empowering experience that will help you move towards the future with confidence. I work with clients to target difficulties associated with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, weight management, tic disorder, binge eating disorder, trauma, and PTSD. I also conduct ADHD & Autism assessments and pre-surgical evaluations. I implement evidence based interventions such as CBT, CPT for PTSD and trauma, Mindfulness, Habit Reversal Training, Somatic Psychotherapy, ERP, DBT Skills, and ACT.
(734) 789-4658 View (734) 789-4658
Photo of Nichole A Birk, CSW, QIDP, QMHP, LLBSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nichole A Birk
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW, QIDP, QMHP, LLBSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), trauma, PTSD, and those on the autism spectrum.
Are you looking for a therapist who values transparency and mutual respect in the therapeutic process? I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges related to addiction, trauma, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With over 14 years of experience in these areas, I'm committed to providing the support and strategies you need to navigate these complex issues. Let's collaborate to create a personalized path toward healing and the outcome you deserve. Reach out today to explore how I can support you on this journey!
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), trauma, PTSD, and those on the autism spectrum.
Are you looking for a therapist who values transparency and mutual respect in the therapeutic process? I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges related to addiction, trauma, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With over 14 years of experience in these areas, I'm committed to providing the support and strategies you need to navigate these complex issues. Let's collaborate to create a personalized path toward healing and the outcome you deserve. Reach out today to explore how I can support you on this journey!
(616) 681-4490 View (616) 681-4490
Photo of Jen McCulloch, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen McCulloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I provide caring support to clients with emotional, behavioral, academic and professional needs. Some of the areas I support include: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Healthy Aging, and Self-Esteem Difficulties. I provide Psychotherapy along with Executive Function interventions. My approach includes a strength-based model to support clients in creating and meeting the goals they establish for their own growth. I am enthusiastic about helping individuals to find their strengths and to be their personal best.
I provide caring support to clients with emotional, behavioral, academic and professional needs. Some of the areas I support include: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Healthy Aging, and Self-Esteem Difficulties. I provide Psychotherapy along with Executive Function interventions. My approach includes a strength-based model to support clients in creating and meeting the goals they establish for their own growth. I am enthusiastic about helping individuals to find their strengths and to be their personal best.
(734) 823-7955 View (734) 823-7955
Photo of Mark Bowers, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
We see individuals of All Ages for Autism Assessments and Neuropsychological Testing.
Dr. Mark Bowers is a Pediatric Psychologist in Brighton, MI. He is clinical director of the Brighton Center. He has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 25 years. He specializes in neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.e., Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Learning Difficulties. Dr. Bowers is Neurodiversity-Affirming. He developed an app (www.mysosh.com) to help children improve their social skills that has been downloaded in over 60 countries and is being used in elementary/high schools and colleges across the US.
We see individuals of All Ages for Autism Assessments and Neuropsychological Testing.
Dr. Mark Bowers is a Pediatric Psychologist in Brighton, MI. He is clinical director of the Brighton Center. He has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 25 years. He specializes in neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.e., Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Learning Difficulties. Dr. Bowers is Neurodiversity-Affirming. He developed an app (www.mysosh.com) to help children improve their social skills that has been downloaded in over 60 countries and is being used in elementary/high schools and colleges across the US.
(810) 479-5285 View (810) 479-5285
Photo of Kari Jessica Schmidt, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari Jessica Schmidt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I feel honored to have worked with so many amazing children, adolescents, and adults, both individually and in a group setting throughout my career. I've been in private practice for the last 24 years. Prior to that I worked at a Children's Specialty Clinic as part of a wonderful team of mental health and medical professionals making up a multidimensional assessment and service team. I have had a concentration in Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, life transitions, support with schools, social relationships, chronic illness, young adult transitional support, and parenting. I provide care that is compassionate and growth focused.
I feel honored to have worked with so many amazing children, adolescents, and adults, both individually and in a group setting throughout my career. I've been in private practice for the last 24 years. Prior to that I worked at a Children's Specialty Clinic as part of a wonderful team of mental health and medical professionals making up a multidimensional assessment and service team. I have had a concentration in Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, life transitions, support with schools, social relationships, chronic illness, young adult transitional support, and parenting. I provide care that is compassionate and growth focused.
(734) 537-7208 View (734) 537-7208
Photo of Samantha Garcia, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48106  (Online Only)
Life is filled with challenges, especially when navigating relationships, whether interpersonal or with systems like CMH, schools, CPS, or healthcare. I specialize in couples and family counseling. With more than 25 years of experience supporting families advocating for their children or adult children with autism, ADHD, or developmental and mental health challenges, These challenges can lead to institutional trauma when system breakdowns cause harm or distress. Such circumstances can drain emotional resources, leaving one feeling powerless and overwhelmed. If this sounds familiar, I am here to help.
Life is filled with challenges, especially when navigating relationships, whether interpersonal or with systems like CMH, schools, CPS, or healthcare. I specialize in couples and family counseling. With more than 25 years of experience supporting families advocating for their children or adult children with autism, ADHD, or developmental and mental health challenges, These challenges can lead to institutional trauma when system breakdowns cause harm or distress. Such circumstances can drain emotional resources, leaving one feeling powerless and overwhelmed. If this sounds familiar, I am here to help.
(616) 522-8654 View (616) 522-8654
Photo of Tammy R McCrory - McCrory Center , LLP, LBA, BCBA, Limited Licensed Psychologist
McCrory Center
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
My expertise is in autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and ODD.
Welcome! I'm Tammy McCrory, a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing top-notch services in psychological evaluations, behavior consultations, and autism diagnostic and treatment. My mission is simple - to help you and your loved ones overcome any obstacles standing in the way of a fulfilling life.
My expertise is in autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and ODD.
Welcome! I'm Tammy McCrory, a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing top-notch services in psychological evaluations, behavior consultations, and autism diagnostic and treatment. My mission is simple - to help you and your loved ones overcome any obstacles standing in the way of a fulfilling life.
(248) 985-8812 View (248) 985-8812
Photo of Laurie Smith, LMSW, CNATC, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CNATC, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
Offering Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments (private pay); Immigration Psychological Evaluations and specialize in Trauma(s), Narcissistic Abuse, ADHD/ Autism, Unwanted Habits and Peer Professionals.
We are humans living in a chronic state of stress and often carrying intergenerational traumas. Any idea what that does to your Nervous System!? Let's empower you with individualized solutions that will optimize your own unique wiring. Providers welcome. Trauma Recovery and Neuro-affirming care is available! I use an eclectic approach to help you uncover the possibilities and opportunities that exist within your unique path. Most clients leave feeling relieved to have reclaimed their lives. Currently a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist.
Offering Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments (private pay); Immigration Psychological Evaluations and specialize in Trauma(s), Narcissistic Abuse, ADHD/ Autism, Unwanted Habits and Peer Professionals.
We are humans living in a chronic state of stress and often carrying intergenerational traumas. Any idea what that does to your Nervous System!? Let's empower you with individualized solutions that will optimize your own unique wiring. Providers welcome. Trauma Recovery and Neuro-affirming care is available! I use an eclectic approach to help you uncover the possibilities and opportunities that exist within your unique path. Most clients leave feeling relieved to have reclaimed their lives. Currently a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist.
(734) 294-0027 View (734) 294-0027
Photo of Miriam Sherk - Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC, MMT, MT-BC, LLPC
Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC
MMT, MT-BC, LLPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Ann Arbor Music Therapy assists clients of all ages and abilities, including children, adolescents and adults with mental health needs, autism, developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia in reaching their fullest potential through music. Miriam's clinical mental health counseling and music therapy tools are person centered, strength-based, and address the needs of the whole person. If you are seeking emotional or behavioral support for anyone in your family and looking for a supportive, creative, and engaging environment to meet their needs please be in touch.
Ann Arbor Music Therapy assists clients of all ages and abilities, including children, adolescents and adults with mental health needs, autism, developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia in reaching their fullest potential through music. Miriam's clinical mental health counseling and music therapy tools are person centered, strength-based, and address the needs of the whole person. If you are seeking emotional or behavioral support for anyone in your family and looking for a supportive, creative, and engaging environment to meet their needs please be in touch.
(734) 436-3623 View (734) 436-3623
Photo of Steven Gilpin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Gilpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I have experience and knowledge in working with individuals that are TBLGQ or live with grief, trauma, autism, PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and many other mental health concerns.
I believe therapy is a space where you can unload things that you are struggling to carry alone, develop clear insight, build greater self-compassion, and address barriers that keep you from achieving your goals. The first step in doing any one of these things is building a strong relationship with your therapist. I strive to make this possible by providing an open, judgement-free, and warm space where you can share who you are and what you are struggling to manage. I regularly work with folx age 14 and up on finding ways to manage their anxious or depressive thinking, and alleviate their stress.
I have experience and knowledge in working with individuals that are TBLGQ or live with grief, trauma, autism, PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and many other mental health concerns.
I believe therapy is a space where you can unload things that you are struggling to carry alone, develop clear insight, build greater self-compassion, and address barriers that keep you from achieving your goals. The first step in doing any one of these things is building a strong relationship with your therapist. I strive to make this possible by providing an open, judgement-free, and warm space where you can share who you are and what you are struggling to manage. I regularly work with folx age 14 and up on finding ways to manage their anxious or depressive thinking, and alleviate their stress.
(734) 869-8070 View (734) 869-8070
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698
Charles Francis Spinazola
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I have over fifty years of providing a complete range of psychological services including neuropsychological evaluations, forensic evaluations, and treatment with psychotherapy and biofeedback. I employ a comprehensive program to assist children, adolescents, and adults with autism, depression, anxiety, AD(H)D, and concussions or traumatic brain injury. I am the only Fully Licensed PhD psychologist in Michigan who combines psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and QEEG-guided neurofeedback protocol development by a Board Certified Neurologist (Dr. Walker at www. neurotherapydallas.com) from the data bases at www.appliedneuroscience.com.
I have over fifty years of providing a complete range of psychological services including neuropsychological evaluations, forensic evaluations, and treatment with psychotherapy and biofeedback. I employ a comprehensive program to assist children, adolescents, and adults with autism, depression, anxiety, AD(H)D, and concussions or traumatic brain injury. I am the only Fully Licensed PhD psychologist in Michigan who combines psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and QEEG-guided neurofeedback protocol development by a Board Certified Neurologist (Dr. Walker at www. neurotherapydallas.com) from the data bases at www.appliedneuroscience.com.
(734) 717-6911 View (734) 717-6911
1
...
Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.