Autism Therapists in Ypsilanti, MI
![Photo of Megan Lynn Hoffman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8786f144-e5b9-4f48-a587-074eaf4d4924/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Lynn Hoffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
Welcome to my page! I'm Megan, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and discover their inner resilience. With 10 years of experience in the field, I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, adult autism and ADHD, trauma-informed care, gender dysphoria, and LGBTQ2IA+ related concerns. I really enjoy helping people understand themselves better to navigate life with their particular strengths and struggles.
Welcome to my page! I'm Megan, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and discover their inner resilience. With 10 years of experience in the field, I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, adult autism and ADHD, trauma-informed care, gender dysphoria, and LGBTQ2IA+ related concerns. I really enjoy helping people understand themselves better to navigate life with their particular strengths and struggles.
![Photo of Brian Neau, LMSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94bba833-fb57-4523-873e-0c1c3b711cf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Melody Montgomery, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66209fd1-965e-480a-baf1-5615d4ea282e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andrew Kossek, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af93b94e-23e2-4469-bc66-eb16ab90974b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Kossek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
I am neurodivergent and I have helped neurodivergent children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings for over ten years. I have a long history of working with other neurodivergent individuals to develop the tools that they need to thrive in a world that does not always accept them. I utilize evidence-based talk therapies as well as CBT and mindfulness practices to help clients develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. I specialize in working with and advocating for children and adults dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, and disability-related issues. I can help Autistic men find ways to connect
I am neurodivergent and I have helped neurodivergent children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings for over ten years. I have a long history of working with other neurodivergent individuals to develop the tools that they need to thrive in a world that does not always accept them. I utilize evidence-based talk therapies as well as CBT and mindfulness practices to help clients develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. I specialize in working with and advocating for children and adults dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, and disability-related issues. I can help Autistic men find ways to connect
![Photo of Heather Munsche, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df1703e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Munsche
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
ASSESSMENT: I specialize in the assessment of ADHD, learning disorders, behavioral issues, autism, and neuropsychological testing for memory issues resulting from traumatic brain injury, illness, and aging.
THERAPY: I can help you develop customized strategies to deal with feelings of depression and anxiety, life transitions, and conditions such as bipolar disorder, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and issues of high-functioning young adults on the autism spectrum. Learn to untwist your thinking and become more mindful!
ASSESSMENT: I specialize in the assessment of ADHD, learning disorders, behavioral issues, autism, and neuropsychological testing for memory issues resulting from traumatic brain injury, illness, and aging.
THERAPY: I can help you develop customized strategies to deal with feelings of depression and anxiety, life transitions, and conditions such as bipolar disorder, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and issues of high-functioning young adults on the autism spectrum. Learn to untwist your thinking and become more mindful!
![Photo of Steven Gilpin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e1c9eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Gilpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (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.
![Photo of Miriam Sherk - Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC, MMT, MT-BC, LLPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/505f2565-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Heidi Mae Netherton, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c32c0d90-eaf9-4715-aaee-2251d7f11934/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Mae Netherton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Waitlist for new clients
I also use a Neurodiversity Affirming model for adults with late diagnosed ADHD and/or Autism.
I often work with people who have learned to hide who they are or what they are feeling in order to have relationships. My hope is to build a "safe enough" client/counselor relationship in which all parts of you can feel welcome. The therapeutic relationship often mirrors other relationships in your life, so I will be addressing our relationship dynamics and communication as part of the therapeutic process.
I also use a Neurodiversity Affirming model for adults with late diagnosed ADHD and/or Autism.
I often work with people who have learned to hide who they are or what they are feeling in order to have relationships. My hope is to build a "safe enough" client/counselor relationship in which all parts of you can feel welcome. The therapeutic relationship often mirrors other relationships in your life, so I will be addressing our relationship dynamics and communication as part of the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Taylor Nezich, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b77e1a6a-d211-4b74-a3bb-ead1b3df9b44/2/320x400.png)
Taylor Nezich
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
As the owner of Mindful Moment PSBH, I provide an array of evidence-based psychotherapy services for folks coping with anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, autism, parenting stressors, significant life transitions, and more.
If you have opened your browser and made it to this website, congratulations. Taking the first step into finding a therapist is often one of the hardest. If you're seeking services to better understand yourself, find ways to cope with anxiety, depression, or low mood, if you're having difficulty functioning (e.g., eating, sleeping), academic stressors, relationship conflict, family issues, stress about parenting or work duties, are grieving, you need someone with a kind ear to listen, or something not listed here I'd love the opportunity to help provide you with the support you need.
As the owner of Mindful Moment PSBH, I provide an array of evidence-based psychotherapy services for folks coping with anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, autism, parenting stressors, significant life transitions, and more.
If you have opened your browser and made it to this website, congratulations. Taking the first step into finding a therapist is often one of the hardest. If you're seeking services to better understand yourself, find ways to cope with anxiety, depression, or low mood, if you're having difficulty functioning (e.g., eating, sleeping), academic stressors, relationship conflict, family issues, stress about parenting or work duties, are grieving, you need someone with a kind ear to listen, or something not listed here I'd love the opportunity to help provide you with the support you need.
![Photo of Rowan Anastasia, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2d3ea9f-d4a0-4e5a-9ddf-e2f78d8212d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a transgender therapist specializing in working w/LGBTQIA+, Autism, ADHD, & Trauma clients, these are the emotions I see clients having difficulty regulating.
Do you ever get a cold isolated feeling when everyone around you seems to know exactly what they want to do in life or at least who they are and how to get there? That stomach-dropping loneliness that leaves you wondering if you’ll ever belong? Or maybe you know what it’s like to stare at an insurmountable mountain between you and who you want to be. So instead you put what everybody else wants and needs first, and hope no one ever asks you these questions because you don’t know what you’d be able to tell them? If so, my name is Rowan Anastasia LLMSW and I am the therapist for you.
As a transgender therapist specializing in working w/LGBTQIA+, Autism, ADHD, & Trauma clients, these are the emotions I see clients having difficulty regulating.
Do you ever get a cold isolated feeling when everyone around you seems to know exactly what they want to do in life or at least who they are and how to get there? That stomach-dropping loneliness that leaves you wondering if you’ll ever belong? Or maybe you know what it’s like to stare at an insurmountable mountain between you and who you want to be. So instead you put what everybody else wants and needs first, and hope no one ever asks you these questions because you don’t know what you’d be able to tell them? If so, my name is Rowan Anastasia LLMSW and I am the therapist for you.
![Photo of Elisabeth Flanagan, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d20c084b-d726-4706-9ca7-6590f8945073/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elisabeth Flanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198 (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping you live your life with more inner freedom and assisting you in reaching your goals. I have several years of experience in private practice, successfully treating OCD, anxiety, mind-body disorders, and other mental health issues. I have also worked with a number of teenage and adult individuals who are on the spectrum (ASD), and have helped them navigate this world better and more successfully. I offer therapy in German as well: Ich bin gebürtige Münchnerin und biete auch Psychotherapie auf Deutsch an. Ich freue mich, von Ihnen zu hören! Read more about my practice: www.WholesomeGrowthPsychotherapy.com
I am passionate about helping you live your life with more inner freedom and assisting you in reaching your goals. I have several years of experience in private practice, successfully treating OCD, anxiety, mind-body disorders, and other mental health issues. I have also worked with a number of teenage and adult individuals who are on the spectrum (ASD), and have helped them navigate this world better and more successfully. I offer therapy in German as well: Ich bin gebürtige Münchnerin und biete auch Psychotherapie auf Deutsch an. Ich freue mich, von Ihnen zu hören! Read more about my practice: www.WholesomeGrowthPsychotherapy.com
15 Second Videos
Kelsey Gault
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Ann Arbor
Laura Thomas
Kenadi Jefferson
Garrett Shotwell
Chris Couling
![Photo of Steven Hall - Clean Slate Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bd6a632-d200-4d3e-ba50-93cb88804087/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are depressed, anxious, angry, lost or feeling directionless I want to help you take the next step in finding hope, healing, purpose and joy. I use a strengths perspective to focus or explore what you are passionate about while nudging you to achieve the goals or dreams you desire. I incorporate experiential learning and processing to improve self-awareness during every session.
Whether you are depressed, anxious, angry, lost or feeling directionless I want to help you take the next step in finding hope, healing, purpose and joy. I use a strengths perspective to focus or explore what you are passionate about while nudging you to achieve the goals or dreams you desire. I incorporate experiential learning and processing to improve self-awareness during every session.
![Photo of Anne Joy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd982e67-af6e-40a8-ae6c-8496602b41e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I know accessing therapy services can be difficult, especially when it feels the most necessary. I believe that our world around us can shape our experiences and mental health, and I strive to work from an anti-racist and intersectional feminist viewpoint. I work from a person-centered perspective, meaning I want to get to know and understand you as an individual. Only you know who you want to be, and I see it as my job to collaborate and provide new tools to get you there. I draw from various modalities, including Dialectic Behavior Therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches.
I know accessing therapy services can be difficult, especially when it feels the most necessary. I believe that our world around us can shape our experiences and mental health, and I strive to work from an anti-racist and intersectional feminist viewpoint. I work from a person-centered perspective, meaning I want to get to know and understand you as an individual. Only you know who you want to be, and I see it as my job to collaborate and provide new tools to get you there. I draw from various modalities, including Dialectic Behavior Therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches.
I have almost 30 years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families facing a multitude of life issues and transitions. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives and strive to provide a safe,supportive, confidential and nurturing environment in which to do this work.
I have almost 30 years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families facing a multitude of life issues and transitions. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives and strive to provide a safe,supportive, confidential and nurturing environment in which to do this work.
![Photo of LaKeisha Thomas, PHDc, LCSW, MSW, AAT, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55546ccf-6e06-4f62-8325-7aea66bc2c44/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaKeisha Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PHDc, LCSW, MSW, AAT, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
My goal is to support individuals in creating a culture of emotional awareness that leads to healing, joy, and empowerment. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, POC, and LGBTQ individuals who may struggle with a range of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ-related concerns, sexual issues, anger management, parenting challenges, life stressors, and work-life balance. Additionally, I specialize in supporting individuals with executive functioning difficulties such as ASD and ADHD. I take a holistic approach, addressing the needs
My goal is to support individuals in creating a culture of emotional awareness that leads to healing, joy, and empowerment. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, POC, and LGBTQ individuals who may struggle with a range of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ-related concerns, sexual issues, anger management, parenting challenges, life stressors, and work-life balance. Additionally, I specialize in supporting individuals with executive functioning difficulties such as ASD and ADHD. I take a holistic approach, addressing the needs
![Photo of Jessica Edwards - Ypsi Career and Counseling Services, MA, LPC, CCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d9e52c4-7be7-4cf1-9d9a-34e5c758154d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ypsi Career and Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCC
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that seeking therapy and/or career guidance can feel overwhelming, especially if you are neurodivergent. I am here to provide you with the compassionate support and understanding that you deserve. Your unique wiring and experiences matter, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to meet your individual needs. Let's explore your issues, needs, and goals together. Whether it's managing anxiety, coping with depression, or navigating executive functioning challenges, you are not alone on this journey. I'm dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space where you can freely express yourself without judgment or stigma.
I understand that seeking therapy and/or career guidance can feel overwhelming, especially if you are neurodivergent. I am here to provide you with the compassionate support and understanding that you deserve. Your unique wiring and experiences matter, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to meet your individual needs. Let's explore your issues, needs, and goals together. Whether it's managing anxiety, coping with depression, or navigating executive functioning challenges, you are not alone on this journey. I'm dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space where you can freely express yourself without judgment or stigma.
![Photo of Nina A Nabors - Integrative Empowerment Group PLLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3c53147-eba6-48a3-b7d2-d5bb4aae4952/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Empowerment Group (IEG) is a collective of providers who share a vision of affirming diversity, empowering individual expression, and promoting integrative mental, emotional, and personal growth. Our mission is to make it easier for seekers to find knowledgeable and aware practitioners who understand their experiences. Our therapists are engaged in continuous consideration of how multiple oppressions (sexism, racism, heterosexism, classism, ableism, sizeism) in the current societal and historical context may be contributing to distress. We are unapologetically anti-racist and liberation-centered in our approach.
Integrative Empowerment Group (IEG) is a collective of providers who share a vision of affirming diversity, empowering individual expression, and promoting integrative mental, emotional, and personal growth. Our mission is to make it easier for seekers to find knowledgeable and aware practitioners who understand their experiences. Our therapists are engaged in continuous consideration of how multiple oppressions (sexism, racism, heterosexism, classism, ableism, sizeism) in the current societal and historical context may be contributing to distress. We are unapologetically anti-racist and liberation-centered in our approach.
![Photo of LaKeisha Thomas - Holistic Therapy & Wellness, PHDc, LCSW, LLMSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c6ead8-0b46-4b79-8d63-c3afd6c8c65a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Therapy & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PHDc, LCSW, LLMSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Our group of therapists are available to see children, teens, adults, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, divorcé reactions, stress, parenting concerns, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, LGBTQ+ Affirming, and anger management. We also have experience working with addiction, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them.
Our group of therapists are available to see children, teens, adults, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, divorcé reactions, stress, parenting concerns, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, LGBTQ+ Affirming, and anger management. We also have experience working with addiction, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them.
![Photo of Genera Fields, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba497c0b-f85c-4dc9-8b21-6739737a8294/1/320x400.jpeg)
Genera Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Holistic wellness is about finding a seat in a world increasingly marked by systemic barriers. Very often, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals aren't given seats at tables, or even welcomed into rooms that would make life more accessible. I see therapy as a folding chair—a portable, adaptable, and transformative support system that we unfold into our lives to create our own spaces to thrive. My ideal client is open, ready, and willing to work on themselves, name their inner demons, and resist the systemic barriers that have tried to dictate their paths.
Holistic wellness is about finding a seat in a world increasingly marked by systemic barriers. Very often, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals aren't given seats at tables, or even welcomed into rooms that would make life more accessible. I see therapy as a folding chair—a portable, adaptable, and transformative support system that we unfold into our lives to create our own spaces to thrive. My ideal client is open, ready, and willing to work on themselves, name their inner demons, and resist the systemic barriers that have tried to dictate their paths.
![Photo of Anthany J Beasley - Beasley Family Therapy Sevices, LLC, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9a68f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beasley Family Therapy Sevices, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Medicaid Clients Only! - EMAIL for faster response if possible. It has long been a passion and dream of mine to provide therapeutic services for transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive children, youth, adolescent, adults and their families. As a queer transgender man of color, I passionately believe that when individuals are able to live as their true authentic selves they can live longer, robust, and happier lives. I strive to help my clients and their families grow together on a journey that is enriching and nourishing to the soul.
Currently Accepting New Medicaid Clients Only! - EMAIL for faster response if possible. It has long been a passion and dream of mine to provide therapeutic services for transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive children, youth, adolescent, adults and their families. As a queer transgender man of color, I passionately believe that when individuals are able to live as their true authentic selves they can live longer, robust, and happier lives. I strive to help my clients and their families grow together on a journey that is enriching and nourishing to the soul.
See more therapy options for Ypsilanti
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Ypsilanti
See More Autism TherapistsAutism 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.