Autism Therapists in Farmington, MN
![Photo of Tessa Fultz, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0c8e235-6396-49f9-ada4-6c8584b25866/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tessa Fultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, MN 55024
Welcome to Lakeview Wellness LLC! We are a group of 3 therapists who are passionate about mental health and creating a safe, compassionate space for clients. We will meet you where you are at. We see all ages, backgrounds & most diagnoses. We all have over 6 years experience in the field, together 20+ years. We have personal and professional experience. We can relate as we have been through struggles in life also. I also offer EMDR, group therapy at times, ADHD diagnosing & autism evaluations. Please check out our bios, ask questions or make a referral on the website- www.lakeview-wellness.com or email.
Welcome to Lakeview Wellness LLC! We are a group of 3 therapists who are passionate about mental health and creating a safe, compassionate space for clients. We will meet you where you are at. We see all ages, backgrounds & most diagnoses. We all have over 6 years experience in the field, together 20+ years. We have personal and professional experience. We can relate as we have been through struggles in life also. I also offer EMDR, group therapy at times, ADHD diagnosing & autism evaluations. Please check out our bios, ask questions or make a referral on the website- www.lakeview-wellness.com or email.
![Photo of Joey Collins, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ebb7a65-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joey Collins
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington, MN 55024
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, adults, and families through various problems that arise. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and anger management to name a few. Over 10 years working with Autism & Aspergers. Sometimes in life, we all can feel like we need an additional person to talk to. I am here to help provide a safe and positive environment for my clients to help encourage positive change from within themselves. Call or email to start your therapeutic journey. Board approved LPCC supervisor, taking on LPCC track clinicians for private supervision as well.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, adults, and families through various problems that arise. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and anger management to name a few. Over 10 years working with Autism & Aspergers. Sometimes in life, we all can feel like we need an additional person to talk to. I am here to help provide a safe and positive environment for my clients to help encourage positive change from within themselves. Call or email to start your therapeutic journey. Board approved LPCC supervisor, taking on LPCC track clinicians for private supervision as well.
![Photo of Sydney Peters, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3192cc26-6cfb-442f-9172-8fc497a72fc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Farmington, MN 55024
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Sydney and I am happy you're here. I never know what to write in these, but I'll start by saying the boring things. My concentration for my social work degree was mental health and trauma. Because of this, I approach therapy in a trauma-informed way and like to get to know the whole of a person and what makes them unique.
Hi! My name is Sydney and I am happy you're here. I never know what to write in these, but I'll start by saying the boring things. My concentration for my social work degree was mental health and trauma. Because of this, I approach therapy in a trauma-informed way and like to get to know the whole of a person and what makes them unique.
![Photo of Kari Prestemon, MSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403d8f81-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling down, anxious, angry or unhappy? My philosophy is that "Life is too short" and for all the bad there is just as much good. Therapy helps one to start finding the good in life and making the necessary changes for that to happen. It is about learning new skills and trying on new ways of living. I feel that as a therapist I become a coach, cheerleader, supporter and confidant. You have already taken the hardest step and that is to admit that there is a problem and to seek help. I look forward to the Journey.
Are you feeling down, anxious, angry or unhappy? My philosophy is that "Life is too short" and for all the bad there is just as much good. Therapy helps one to start finding the good in life and making the necessary changes for that to happen. It is about learning new skills and trying on new ways of living. I feel that as a therapist I become a coach, cheerleader, supporter and confidant. You have already taken the hardest step and that is to admit that there is a problem and to seek help. I look forward to the Journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Amy Meyer, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03511cf0-d498-47e9-aac9-8316e40a8d6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of interest include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, early development, anger, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, parent guidance and self-esteem issues.
I am passionate about working with children and families to help them find emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation the growth and progress. I have substantial experience working with children 12 y.o. and under. Being a kid (or parent) is not easy, especially right now. I would love to support you and your child in whatever manner is needed. I enjoy teaching kids about emotions and calming strategies, helping process stressful or traumatic experiences, teaching social-emotional awareness, and providing guidance to parents.
My areas of interest include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, early development, anger, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, parent guidance and self-esteem issues.
I am passionate about working with children and families to help them find emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation the growth and progress. I have substantial experience working with children 12 y.o. and under. Being a kid (or parent) is not easy, especially right now. I would love to support you and your child in whatever manner is needed. I enjoy teaching kids about emotions and calming strategies, helping process stressful or traumatic experiences, teaching social-emotional awareness, and providing guidance to parents.
![Photo of Timothy Patrick Lang - Metro Psychological Evaluations, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da286f7d-dda1-4053-8895-776dc3452003/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding it difficult to schedule a psychological evaluation? Metro Psychological Evaluations has appointments available on Saturdays and Sundays to accommodate work and school schedules. We provide psychological evaluations for ADHD, Learning Disorders/Dyslexia, Autism, Neurocognitive Disorders/Dementias, and Pre-employment Evaluations for law enforcement candidates.
Finding it difficult to schedule a psychological evaluation? Metro Psychological Evaluations has appointments available on Saturdays and Sundays to accommodate work and school schedules. We provide psychological evaluations for ADHD, Learning Disorders/Dyslexia, Autism, Neurocognitive Disorders/Dementias, and Pre-employment Evaluations for law enforcement candidates.
![Photo of Carrie K. Wolfson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5d9659-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie K. Wolfson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Waitlist for new clients
Working with children/youth who have social and emotional deficits is my passion. As a systems therapist I am committed to assisting each child/youth while also working with the family to handle difficulties that come with having a child with unique needs. My clients may have autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood/impulse control concerns which cause behavioral and relationship difficulties. Treatment plans are based on concepts of "Social Thinking" as well as behavioral and play-based interventions, CBT and Family Therapy approaches to maximize the learning and retention of skills across multiple settings.
Working with children/youth who have social and emotional deficits is my passion. As a systems therapist I am committed to assisting each child/youth while also working with the family to handle difficulties that come with having a child with unique needs. My clients may have autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood/impulse control concerns which cause behavioral and relationship difficulties. Treatment plans are based on concepts of "Social Thinking" as well as behavioral and play-based interventions, CBT and Family Therapy approaches to maximize the learning and retention of skills across multiple settings.
![Photo of Kim Busse, MEd, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b400d0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Busse
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I work with clients of all ages who want to make a positive change in their lives. My primary focus is helping individuals and families who are experiencing the challenges of Autism/Asperger's. Many of my clients also seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD and other neurological disorders. The goal of counseling is intended to have the client feeling better than before they started.
I work with clients of all ages who want to make a positive change in their lives. My primary focus is helping individuals and families who are experiencing the challenges of Autism/Asperger's. Many of my clients also seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD and other neurological disorders. The goal of counseling is intended to have the client feeling better than before they started.
![Photo of Tarah Groettum, MSEd, LPCC, CAS, PACC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30709bc4-fd4a-4c1c-b55a-df5044594e95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tarah Groettum
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC, CAS, PACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122 (Online Only)
I can help by having personal and professional experience in my specialty areas, such as Autism, foster/kinship care, and FASD.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, dedication and authenticity. I strive to create a safe, supportive and trusting environment where my clients will feel comfortable, heard and understood; while exploring their thoughts, feelings, and most "raw" aspects of themselves. I meet each individual where they are and walk beside them on their journey to meet their personal goal(s) to ensure they do not feel alone. I believe the individual leads the sessions, determines what they want and need from each session and goal creation. It is a team effort, but one I am here to support and engage others/team if wanted/needed.
I can help by having personal and professional experience in my specialty areas, such as Autism, foster/kinship care, and FASD.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, dedication and authenticity. I strive to create a safe, supportive and trusting environment where my clients will feel comfortable, heard and understood; while exploring their thoughts, feelings, and most "raw" aspects of themselves. I meet each individual where they are and walk beside them on their journey to meet their personal goal(s) to ensure they do not feel alone. I believe the individual leads the sessions, determines what they want and need from each session and goal creation. It is a team effort, but one I am here to support and engage others/team if wanted/needed.
![Photo of Bridget Couderc, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db0e7f2a-e40c-449f-b31d-50b6f35e2dfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of interest include: depression, anxiety, personal growth, ADHD, adjustments/life transitions, PTSD, impulsive behaviors, difficulties in relationships, issues with self-esteem/confidence, unwanted thinking patterns, Autism, borderline personality disorder, self-harm and attachment.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
My areas of interest include: depression, anxiety, personal growth, ADHD, adjustments/life transitions, PTSD, impulsive behaviors, difficulties in relationships, issues with self-esteem/confidence, unwanted thinking patterns, Autism, borderline personality disorder, self-harm and attachment.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
![Photo of Jim Anderson, MS, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467b16b0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've been working with children since 1991, mostly at the elementary and preschool age level. In the 90's I developed a passion for play therapy and began my own training and experience. Twenty years later I have my ideal space at Cashman Center where I provide play therapy every day, addressing everything from anxiety to trauma to attachment, teaching new skills including assertiveness, self-advocacy, and emotional independence, and consulting with families. With over twenty years of experience doing assessments in the schools, I continue to do assessments for learning styles, behavior and mood dysregulation, autism, and ADHD.
I've been working with children since 1991, mostly at the elementary and preschool age level. In the 90's I developed a passion for play therapy and began my own training and experience. Twenty years later I have my ideal space at Cashman Center where I provide play therapy every day, addressing everything from anxiety to trauma to attachment, teaching new skills including assertiveness, self-advocacy, and emotional independence, and consulting with families. With over twenty years of experience doing assessments in the schools, I continue to do assessments for learning styles, behavior and mood dysregulation, autism, and ADHD.
![Photo of Diane R Grinnell, MEdS, LICSW, LSP, LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f77ce13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diane R Grinnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEdS, LICSW, LSP, LSSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I am an Educational Psychologist who has 30 years of experience in clinical, hospital, and school settings. My specialty areas include children, adolescents, and adults. Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy. Specific areas I treat include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Post concussion symptoms, Adjustment Disorders, eating disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorders, Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Disorders, learning disorders, and chronic mental health issues. I use DBT, CBT, Behavioral Therapies, Expanded Mindfulness strategies. I am also a certified pastor.
I am an Educational Psychologist who has 30 years of experience in clinical, hospital, and school settings. My specialty areas include children, adolescents, and adults. Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy. Specific areas I treat include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Post concussion symptoms, Adjustment Disorders, eating disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorders, Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Disorders, learning disorders, and chronic mental health issues. I use DBT, CBT, Behavioral Therapies, Expanded Mindfulness strategies. I am also a certified pastor.
![Photo of Jacob Gerend, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91bd3417-20bf-4d4f-b9b3-88c4ae8ebefb/1/320x400.jpeg)
My style of therapy is geared towards helping individuals discover their own inner strength and direction. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and goals will be individualized based on their own needs. Every individual has a different perspective and I encourage these differences throughout the therapeutic process. Childhood experiences play a major role in development even as an adult and can frame the way we view the world. The client is meant to play an active role in their therapy and my relationships with every individual will be built on trust, authenticity and transparency.
My style of therapy is geared towards helping individuals discover their own inner strength and direction. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and goals will be individualized based on their own needs. Every individual has a different perspective and I encourage these differences throughout the therapeutic process. Childhood experiences play a major role in development even as an adult and can frame the way we view the world. The client is meant to play an active role in their therapy and my relationships with every individual will be built on trust, authenticity and transparency.
![Photo of Elizabeth Douglas, LADC, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c266da6-ecfb-4092-a415-75352bc1fe92/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I've taken my 18 years of experience and created a safe space for mental health therapy. I envision a therapeutic space to empower you to embrace personal transformation and healing through a harmonious connection with nature, fostering autonomy, and initiating long-term, positive change. My commitment lies in providing a safe and supportive space for therapy, free from judgment. I am both a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) & a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC).
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I've taken my 18 years of experience and created a safe space for mental health therapy. I envision a therapeutic space to empower you to embrace personal transformation and healing through a harmonious connection with nature, fostering autonomy, and initiating long-term, positive change. My commitment lies in providing a safe and supportive space for therapy, free from judgment. I am both a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) & a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC).
![Photo of Emily Sander, PsyD, LP, E-Psprt, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9da874f0-24db-4bac-9a9a-a8ef2c6da99a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Sander
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, E-Psprt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rosemount, MN 55068
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking support can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right provider it doesn’t have to be. I am a doctoral-level psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care to people of all ages. I have over 15 years of experience using a variety of therapeutic styles to meet the individual needs of each client, couple, or family I treat. While I utilize evidence-based treatments including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and DBT therapies, I strongly believe that treatment must be tailored to each client’s needs. I also believe that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with one’s provider is the key to success.
Seeking support can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right provider it doesn’t have to be. I am a doctoral-level psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care to people of all ages. I have over 15 years of experience using a variety of therapeutic styles to meet the individual needs of each client, couple, or family I treat. While I utilize evidence-based treatments including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and DBT therapies, I strongly believe that treatment must be tailored to each client’s needs. I also believe that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with one’s provider is the key to success.
![Photo of Alexander Carlson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/986a5221-c478-4119-836a-9148d3bfb186/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexander Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm Alex a clinical social worker and mental health rehabilitation provider since 2007. I'm a firm believer in balancing the books and my years of practice-based evidence to meet you where you're at. I would be a great therapist for you if you desire accountability, direct/assertive communication, constructive criticism of behavior/thought patterns. If you are a frequent late cancel/no show'er, fly by the seat of your pants, TLDR/didn't check texts/can't find it in my email or are uncomfortable using technology, this caveat will be Exhibit A when we discuss termination of services.
Hello and welcome! I'm Alex a clinical social worker and mental health rehabilitation provider since 2007. I'm a firm believer in balancing the books and my years of practice-based evidence to meet you where you're at. I would be a great therapist for you if you desire accountability, direct/assertive communication, constructive criticism of behavior/thought patterns. If you are a frequent late cancel/no show'er, fly by the seat of your pants, TLDR/didn't check texts/can't find it in my email or are uncomfortable using technology, this caveat will be Exhibit A when we discuss termination of services.
![Photo of Nafiso Hassan Fiqi, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35251ebf-a943-40aa-9746-a195d2679452/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nafiso Hassan Fiqi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124 (Online Only)
You don't have to face life's difficulties by yourself. With caring assistance and proven therapeutic methods, I'm ready to join you on the path to recovery and positive change. In our collaborative work, we can explore the intricacies of your inner experiences and help you develop the strength to create the life you truly want. My role is to provide a supportive presence and effective strategies so you can heal, grow, and flourish. As a therapist, I am aware of how intimidating it can be to ask for help. My strategy is based on cooperation, respect, and empathy. I offer a secure environment where you are free to explore your ideas
You don't have to face life's difficulties by yourself. With caring assistance and proven therapeutic methods, I'm ready to join you on the path to recovery and positive change. In our collaborative work, we can explore the intricacies of your inner experiences and help you develop the strength to create the life you truly want. My role is to provide a supportive presence and effective strategies so you can heal, grow, and flourish. As a therapist, I am aware of how intimidating it can be to ask for help. My strategy is based on cooperation, respect, and empathy. I offer a secure environment where you are free to explore your ideas
![Photo of Julian Sachs, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e8657e2-aada-44b1-b20d-cb861afbf0a0/2/320x400.png)
Julian Sachs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124 (Online Only)
I know how hard it can be to make those first steps. I am here to support you as you grow towards a better and more sustainable future. I specialize in identity and role exploration along with the managing the related disorders that come with masking, keeping up appearances, or lost sense of self. These can include depression, big emotions, stress, burnout and high anxiety- especially among those working in high pressure jobs or other stressful roles. This also includes exploring identity and social roles as an LGBTIA+ or Autistic person, dissociative disorders, ADHD and executive functioning challenges in general.
I know how hard it can be to make those first steps. I am here to support you as you grow towards a better and more sustainable future. I specialize in identity and role exploration along with the managing the related disorders that come with masking, keeping up appearances, or lost sense of self. These can include depression, big emotions, stress, burnout and high anxiety- especially among those working in high pressure jobs or other stressful roles. This also includes exploring identity and social roles as an LGBTIA+ or Autistic person, dissociative disorders, ADHD and executive functioning challenges in general.
![Photo of Bill Clafton, PsyD LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a13a09d-26a4-4e76-9206-87c2e38f3274/1/320x400.jpeg)
Difficulties with mood (Anxiety/Depression) focus or attention? Is your child demonstrating oppositional behaviors? Facing challenges in school either academically or socially? These are just a few of the many clinical presentations I work with regularly. My emphasis is on building a collaborative approach with my clients and their support systems to help identify and put into practice positive coping strategies to manage the stress and challenges that life sometimes presents. I will listen to you and work with you from your perspective and reality to help you identify and practice individualized strategies that work for you.
Difficulties with mood (Anxiety/Depression) focus or attention? Is your child demonstrating oppositional behaviors? Facing challenges in school either academically or socially? These are just a few of the many clinical presentations I work with regularly. My emphasis is on building a collaborative approach with my clients and their support systems to help identify and put into practice positive coping strategies to manage the stress and challenges that life sometimes presents. I will listen to you and work with you from your perspective and reality to help you identify and practice individualized strategies that work for you.
![Photo of Annie E Emanuel, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd27f13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Each of us experience times in our lives in which our problems seem overwhelming. We may become stuck in the same patterns of dealing with challenges. By working collaboratively with clients through therapy or psychological assessment, my goal is to help each of my clients become "unstuck" and create positive change. Therapeutic relationships built on trust & respect are imperative to the success of any therapeutic intervention. I strive to create a warm & safe environment in which client's can feel more comfortable telling their stories & exploring the issues for which they are seeking support.
Each of us experience times in our lives in which our problems seem overwhelming. We may become stuck in the same patterns of dealing with challenges. By working collaboratively with clients through therapy or psychological assessment, my goal is to help each of my clients become "unstuck" and create positive change. Therapeutic relationships built on trust & respect are imperative to the success of any therapeutic intervention. I strive to create a warm & safe environment in which client's can feel more comfortable telling their stories & exploring the issues for which they are seeking support.
See more therapy options for Farmington
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Farmington
- Apple Valley
- Bloomington
- Burnsville
- Cottage Grove
- Eagan
- Hastings
- Inver Grove Heights
- Lakeville
- Mendota Heights
- Northfield
- Prior Lake
- Richfield
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.