Autism Therapists in Hamburg, MI

Photo of Mike Corrigan, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Corrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamburg, MI 48139
Waitlist for new clients
I also have an additional 13 years experience working with Developmental Disabilities, Asperger's and Autism.
I work to help others reduce distress, maximize functioning and find joy and purpose in their lives. No matter what challenges we face, we can learn ways to improve our ability to meet and overcome them. I use a combination of techniques to build and enhance skills for rising to meet life's stressful moments and to understand that our "weaknesses" can be our greatest strengths.
I also have an additional 13 years experience working with Developmental Disabilities, Asperger's and Autism.
I work to help others reduce distress, maximize functioning and find joy and purpose in their lives. No matter what challenges we face, we can learn ways to improve our ability to meet and overcome them. I use a combination of techniques to build and enhance skills for rising to meet life's stressful moments and to understand that our "weaknesses" can be our greatest strengths.
(810) 360-2828 View (810) 360-2828

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sandra Kumm, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sandra Kumm
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
My areas of interest are in diagnosis of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum and Language Disorders, anxiety, AD/HD, and behavioral difficulties.
Assessment can be an incredible tool in seeking solutions for children and adolescents experiencing significant difficulties in their daily lives. I aspire to be the key to unlock the door with solutions so each child can strive to reach their maximum potential. My training and education include a Masters Degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Michigan. This approach to evaluation includes the biological, psychological, and social contributions to our lives that make each of us the person we are today.
My areas of interest are in diagnosis of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum and Language Disorders, anxiety, AD/HD, and behavioral difficulties.
Assessment can be an incredible tool in seeking solutions for children and adolescents experiencing significant difficulties in their daily lives. I aspire to be the key to unlock the door with solutions so each child can strive to reach their maximum potential. My training and education include a Masters Degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Michigan. This approach to evaluation includes the biological, psychological, and social contributions to our lives that make each of us the person we are today.
(734) 666-0705 View (734) 666-0705
Photo of Mark Bowers, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
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 Jessie Berner - Ultimate Life Teletherapy, PLLC - Jessie Berner, LMSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ultimate Life Teletherapy, PLLC - Jessie Berner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
My expertise areas include: acute/chronic/complex trauma, attachment issues, Autism, school concerns (primary, secondary and post-secondary), Depression, Anxiety, relationship conflict and repair, ADHD, patterned behavioral issues (self and child), as well as personal growth and discovery.
If you feel ready to explore the obstacles that are impeding your ability to live your ultimate life, we may be a great match! Do you feel overwhelmed by feelings of resentment, shame or past/current traumas? Are difficulties in your relationships, family dysfunction, school issues, chronic stress or participation in negative patterns of behaviors inhibiting your ability to live your life as you envision it? If so, I am here and ready to support you on your journey of discovery that you desire and deserve.
My expertise areas include: acute/chronic/complex trauma, attachment issues, Autism, school concerns (primary, secondary and post-secondary), Depression, Anxiety, relationship conflict and repair, ADHD, patterned behavioral issues (self and child), as well as personal growth and discovery.
If you feel ready to explore the obstacles that are impeding your ability to live your ultimate life, we may be a great match! Do you feel overwhelmed by feelings of resentment, shame or past/current traumas? Are difficulties in your relationships, family dysfunction, school issues, chronic stress or participation in negative patterns of behaviors inhibiting your ability to live your life as you envision it? If so, I am here and ready to support you on your journey of discovery that you desire and deserve.
(248) 563-7226 View (248) 563-7226
Photo of Erin Mark - Complete Neuropsychology Services, PhD, Psychologist
Complete Neuropsychology Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
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 Cathi Barry, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathi Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
Thank you for taking this brave step toward your healing. My name is Cathi and I graduated from U of M with my MSW in 2011. As your therapist, I will create a nonjudgmental and safe space for you to process any pain you are carrying and to help you find your inner light. I can help you with life transitions, health changes, chronic illness, disabilities, grief/loss, PTSD, childhood neglect/abuse/control, anxiety, sexual trauma, autism, family dynamics, enmeshment, college/career anxiety, caregiver fatigue/burnout, panic attacks, self esteem/self love, ADHD, infant/maternal mental health, fertility, social media addiction, and more.
Thank you for taking this brave step toward your healing. My name is Cathi and I graduated from U of M with my MSW in 2011. As your therapist, I will create a nonjudgmental and safe space for you to process any pain you are carrying and to help you find your inner light. I can help you with life transitions, health changes, chronic illness, disabilities, grief/loss, PTSD, childhood neglect/abuse/control, anxiety, sexual trauma, autism, family dynamics, enmeshment, college/career anxiety, caregiver fatigue/burnout, panic attacks, self esteem/self love, ADHD, infant/maternal mental health, fertility, social media addiction, and more.
(734) 212-2746 View (734) 212-2746
Photo of Jennifer Diane Marshall - Healing Pathways Center, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Pathways Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
The mission of Healing Pathways Center is to assist individuals and families in meeting life's challenges. Through the process of engagement, relationship building and mindful practices, we tap into the heart of the matter. Whether depression, anxiety, autism, life transitions, behavioral or parenting concerns, pain issues and loss of a loved one our goal is to empower individuals towards healing, and coping. Without preconceived notions, therapy becomes a vehicle for you to explore and uncover goals, road blocks, stepping stones and more. All with a desire to live a healthier and happier life.
The mission of Healing Pathways Center is to assist individuals and families in meeting life's challenges. Through the process of engagement, relationship building and mindful practices, we tap into the heart of the matter. Whether depression, anxiety, autism, life transitions, behavioral or parenting concerns, pain issues and loss of a loved one our goal is to empower individuals towards healing, and coping. Without preconceived notions, therapy becomes a vehicle for you to explore and uncover goals, road blocks, stepping stones and more. All with a desire to live a healthier and happier life.
(810) 206-0945 View (810) 206-0945
Photo of Beth Toplyn, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Beth Toplyn
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Dr. Toplyn has a special passion for DBT related treatment and autism assessment. She enjoys working with issues related to trauma, loss, abuse, adoption and placement. She has continued to work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, severe and persistent mental illness and can provide both group and individual DBT informed therapy. Her most recent work has been providing forensic evaluations to adults and teens involved in the legal system allowing her to empathize with those involved in the court system.
Dr. Toplyn has a special passion for DBT related treatment and autism assessment. She enjoys working with issues related to trauma, loss, abuse, adoption and placement. She has continued to work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, severe and persistent mental illness and can provide both group and individual DBT informed therapy. Her most recent work has been providing forensic evaluations to adults and teens involved in the legal system allowing her to empathize with those involved in the court system.
(517) 697-5608 View (517) 697-5608
Photo of Pamela A McCaskill - McCaskill Family Services, PhD, Psychologist
McCaskill Family Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
We offer private, confidential psychological evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. We specialize in comprehensive evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, ADHD coaching, eating disorders, tics/tourettes, DBT, CBT, toilet training, school refusal, agressive behavior, cutting, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, exposure therapy, dietitian services, group services, equine-assited therapy and advocating for children in the educational setting. We also run various groups throughout the year for different age groups and issues.
We offer private, confidential psychological evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. We specialize in comprehensive evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, ADHD coaching, eating disorders, tics/tourettes, DBT, CBT, toilet training, school refusal, agressive behavior, cutting, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, exposure therapy, dietitian services, group services, equine-assited therapy and advocating for children in the educational setting. We also run various groups throughout the year for different age groups and issues.
(734) 385-2823 x1 View (734) 385-2823 x1
Photo of Maureen Linnell - Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
A difficult diagnosis (chronic illness, Autism) can push us to our tipping point.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
A difficult diagnosis (chronic illness, Autism) can push us to our tipping point.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
(810) 627-7061 View (810) 627-7061
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
Photo of Monet Sutton, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Monet Sutton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Waitlist for new clients
Are you sick of feeling unheard and unseen? As a neurodivergent provider in a society that is not always neurodivergency affirming, I feel connected to clients who feel as if they are navigating life without understanding themselves or their experiences. My own experiences and training have drawn me to my passion of working with neurodivergent children and adults utilizing a neurodivergency affirming approach.
Are you sick of feeling unheard and unseen? As a neurodivergent provider in a society that is not always neurodivergency affirming, I feel connected to clients who feel as if they are navigating life without understanding themselves or their experiences. My own experiences and training have drawn me to my passion of working with neurodivergent children and adults utilizing a neurodivergency affirming approach.
(810) 321-4924 View (810) 321-4924
Photo of Heather Harris, MA,  LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Heather Harris
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Everyone can use someone to talk to. Whether they just need to have a person to vent to or someone to help realign their life perspective, it is important to have a person. I want to be that person to others. I want to help to encourage others, provide positive change, promote health and stability and have open communication to others. A person who seeks therapy knows that their life journey is easier when shared with someone who can help manage the struggles and celebrate the joys that our journey has and they are willing to navigate them and are ready for a change.
Everyone can use someone to talk to. Whether they just need to have a person to vent to or someone to help realign their life perspective, it is important to have a person. I want to be that person to others. I want to help to encourage others, provide positive change, promote health and stability and have open communication to others. A person who seeks therapy knows that their life journey is easier when shared with someone who can help manage the struggles and celebrate the joys that our journey has and they are willing to navigate them and are ready for a change.
(810) 474-4249 View (810) 474-4249
Photo of Zoe Lapham, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Zoe Lapham
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
I enjoy working with all types of clients; some might come to me with specific problems, like anxiety, while other might come with less clear ones, like uncertainty or complicated family. Most of my clients have been college students or young adults working through life transitions, learning about their own identity, and understanding past trauma. I believe therapy can and should be for everyone, so I love the process of figuring out what parts of psychological science can best serve you as a client.
I enjoy working with all types of clients; some might come to me with specific problems, like anxiety, while other might come with less clear ones, like uncertainty or complicated family. Most of my clients have been college students or young adults working through life transitions, learning about their own identity, and understanding past trauma. I believe therapy can and should be for everyone, so I love the process of figuring out what parts of psychological science can best serve you as a client.
(734) 441-2756 View (734) 441-2756
Photo of Christopher Curtis, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pinckney, MI 48169  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has the ability to improve and to enhance their sense of hope, peace, wellbeing and balance in life. It is my privilege to work collaboratively in a nonjudgemental and accepting space to support and empower individuals in the process of personal exploration and development. Through the consideration of thoughts, feelings, behaviors, responses and inner dialogue we can work together to improve your current state and you will be able to decide what choices make the most sense for you.
I believe that everyone has the ability to improve and to enhance their sense of hope, peace, wellbeing and balance in life. It is my privilege to work collaboratively in a nonjudgemental and accepting space to support and empower individuals in the process of personal exploration and development. Through the consideration of thoughts, feelings, behaviors, responses and inner dialogue we can work together to improve your current state and you will be able to decide what choices make the most sense for you.
(734) 215-6129 View (734) 215-6129
Photo of Kristin McGuinness - Pathlight Counseling Pllc, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pathlight Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843  (Online Only)
Each family is unique, but some have exceptional needs. As a mom of kids with special issues, and having worked in special education for decades, I understand the needs of exceptional families. I love working with children on grief, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, etc; parents struggling with their child's diagnosis will appreciate my understanding and ability to provide concrete steps to improve coping. Recently, I have obtained my certificate in Independent Educational Consulting and have immersed myself in the world of college admissions, & provide college counseling for teens, including those with disabilities.
Each family is unique, but some have exceptional needs. As a mom of kids with special issues, and having worked in special education for decades, I understand the needs of exceptional families. I love working with children on grief, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, etc; parents struggling with their child's diagnosis will appreciate my understanding and ability to provide concrete steps to improve coping. Recently, I have obtained my certificate in Independent Educational Consulting and have immersed myself in the world of college admissions, & provide college counseling for teens, including those with disabilities.
(425) 243-6768 View (425) 243-6768
Photo of Sara Lyden, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Lyden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a neurodivergent therapist who believes that therapy should feel safe, comfortable, and uniquely tailored to you. My practice emphasizes the importance of building trust and providing a casual, easy-going environment where you are welcomed and accepted as you are. I will strive to empower you while offering a safe, inclusive space to explore life’s challenges, celebrate your strengths, and achieve personal growth in a way that is best suited to your needs.
Hello! I am a neurodivergent therapist who believes that therapy should feel safe, comfortable, and uniquely tailored to you. My practice emphasizes the importance of building trust and providing a casual, easy-going environment where you are welcomed and accepted as you are. I will strive to empower you while offering a safe, inclusive space to explore life’s challenges, celebrate your strengths, and achieve personal growth in a way that is best suited to your needs.
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Photo of Nicole Cotton Takla, LMSW-C, C-DBT, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Cotton Takla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, C-DBT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Nicole uses an integrative approach to therapy, blending styles in a way that accommodates the unique needs of each individual. She is a certified Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional and also certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and enjoys encorporating its modalities into therapy when appropriate (mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness). Nicole has a deep understanding of school issues, special education, behavior analysis and interventions, self-concept, parent-coaching, girl-issues, ADHD, ASD and improving overall social, emotional and behavioral functioning.
Nicole uses an integrative approach to therapy, blending styles in a way that accommodates the unique needs of each individual. She is a certified Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional and also certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and enjoys encorporating its modalities into therapy when appropriate (mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness). Nicole has a deep understanding of school issues, special education, behavior analysis and interventions, self-concept, parent-coaching, girl-issues, ADHD, ASD and improving overall social, emotional and behavioral functioning.
(248) 985-8271 View (248) 985-8271
Photo of James Rogers, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
James Rogers is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. James’s goal as a counselor is to provide understanding, relatability, compassion, and genuineness. He recognizes that there are many situations in life beyond our control; however, there are also many things we can control. By arming ourselves with tools and resources to manage the controllable aspects of life, our mental health begins to experience the benefits of our efforts. In adulthood, we exhibit survival behaviors that have helped us endure as individuals.
James Rogers is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. James’s goal as a counselor is to provide understanding, relatability, compassion, and genuineness. He recognizes that there are many situations in life beyond our control; however, there are also many things we can control. By arming ourselves with tools and resources to manage the controllable aspects of life, our mental health begins to experience the benefits of our efforts. In adulthood, we exhibit survival behaviors that have helped us endure as individuals.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
Photo of Mallory Godin Restore Renew Counseling, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mallory Godin Restore Renew Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Welcome! Here at Restore & Renew Counseling, we value a holistic approach to counseling. Counseling is an investment in oneself and you are worth it! I have years of extensive training working with athletes, college students, and maternal health. Specifically, I work with infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum related concerns, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, relationship conflicts, parenting, work-life balance, career coaching issues and more. I use an integrated and holistic approach to counseling - Faith-based counseling, Talk Therapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, and Gottman Method.
Welcome! Here at Restore & Renew Counseling, we value a holistic approach to counseling. Counseling is an investment in oneself and you are worth it! I have years of extensive training working with athletes, college students, and maternal health. Specifically, I work with infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum related concerns, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, relationship conflicts, parenting, work-life balance, career coaching issues and more. I use an integrated and holistic approach to counseling - Faith-based counseling, Talk Therapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, and Gottman Method.
(563) 204-2326 View (563) 204-2326

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Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

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

How does ABA work?

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

How does treatment for autism work?

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

How long does therapy for autism take?

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