Autism Therapists in Inver Grove Heights, MN

Photo of Lisa Krueger, MA, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Krueger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076  (Online Only)
I tend to gravitate towards those that are entering or exiting single parenthood, those that have been through or are going through domestic violence or some kind of impactful relationship change, those that are late diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, or both, those that are new to their kid(s) being diagnosed, and those that just need to put themselves first in this space amidst all of the overwhelm of life. I love working with individuals that are in the midst of navigating life transitions, stressors, and new phases.
I tend to gravitate towards those that are entering or exiting single parenthood, those that have been through or are going through domestic violence or some kind of impactful relationship change, those that are late diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, or both, those that are new to their kid(s) being diagnosed, and those that just need to put themselves first in this space amidst all of the overwhelm of life. I love working with individuals that are in the midst of navigating life transitions, stressors, and new phases.
(651) 240-3859 View (651) 240-3859
Photo of Peter Jason Meilahn - Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, LPCC, Counselor
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 351-4958 View (612) 351-4958
Photo of Kelsey Rehome-Peymann, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Rehome-Peymann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Each person holds their own unique set of values and beliefs. I am not hear to judge or dictate your behavior, rather, I strive to acknowledged and honor your experiences; accepting who you are, where you are at this current moment, and where you would like to go. Through collaboration, encouragement, and active participation in therapeutic process, you can become the agent of change in your life. As a supportive therapist, I am here to help you cultivate a better personal understanding of your life and make choices that will benefit your personal growth and overall well-being.
Each person holds their own unique set of values and beliefs. I am not hear to judge or dictate your behavior, rather, I strive to acknowledged and honor your experiences; accepting who you are, where you are at this current moment, and where you would like to go. Through collaboration, encouragement, and active participation in therapeutic process, you can become the agent of change in your life. As a supportive therapist, I am here to help you cultivate a better personal understanding of your life and make choices that will benefit your personal growth and overall well-being.
(612) 439-4256 View (612) 439-4256
Photo of Madeline Sandeen, MA, LPCC
Madeline Sandeen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Does your trauma or mental health leaves you feeling uncertain, anxious, and confused? Are you fed up with the way symptoms impact your relationships, view of the world, and confidence in oneself? You might not even remember a time things did not feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for a change. You’re ready to feel certain of yourself. You’re ready to experience a regulated nervous system. Most of all, you’re ready to be able to confidently express your wants, needs, and desires.
Does your trauma or mental health leaves you feeling uncertain, anxious, and confused? Are you fed up with the way symptoms impact your relationships, view of the world, and confidence in oneself? You might not even remember a time things did not feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for a change. You’re ready to feel certain of yourself. You’re ready to experience a regulated nervous system. Most of all, you’re ready to be able to confidently express your wants, needs, and desires.
(651) 409-1446 View (651) 409-1446
Photo of Tyler Ahrens, MSc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tyler Ahrens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076  (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Tyler! As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in religious trauma recovery, inclusivity and acceptance are central to my entire practice. Exploring religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and understanding. And as someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a high-control environment, I am committed to helping others heal from traumatic religious experiences, knowing that these can leave lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
Hello there, I'm Tyler! As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in religious trauma recovery, inclusivity and acceptance are central to my entire practice. Exploring religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and understanding. And as someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a high-control environment, I am committed to helping others heal from traumatic religious experiences, knowing that these can leave lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
(952) 900-3415 View (952) 900-3415
Photo of Hannah Blaha, MS, LPCC
Hannah Blaha
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
My hope is to offer you a safe, non-judgemental and curious place to talk about what you find most important. I believe in holding a flexible and collaborative space in order to create a culture of healing and hope. I believe in standing with social justice and cultural diversity and am a LGBTQIA allied provider.
My hope is to offer you a safe, non-judgemental and curious place to talk about what you find most important. I believe in holding a flexible and collaborative space in order to create a culture of healing and hope. I believe in standing with social justice and cultural diversity and am a LGBTQIA allied provider.
(651) 384-2338 View (651) 384-2338
Photo of Sarah Nides, MA, LPCC, RPT, Counselor
Sarah Nides
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals.
Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals.
(612) 712-5960 View (612) 712-5960

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tarah Groettum At Bears Counseling Pllc (Autism), MSEd, LPCC, CAS, PACC, Counselor
Tarah Groettum At Bears Counseling Pllc (Autism)
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.
(651) 369-7957 View (651) 369-7957
Photo of Carrie K. Wolfson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie K. Wolfson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55123
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.
(612) 326-3882 View (612) 326-3882
Photo of Josette Wynne, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josette Wynne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist that works with adult individuals 18+ with trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, attachment issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, Autism Level 1, PDA and ADHD.
Through connections we learn about ourselves, others and our world. Sometimes, safe connections and acceptance have been missing in our lives due to neurodivergence, social rejection, abuse or neglect. We may walk through life feeling like outsiders struggling to understand the world and ourselves. In therapy, I work to provide a safe, nurturing place where you can take off your mask and find self compassion, acceptance and healing. I offer trauma informed therapy with collaborative, nonjudgmental support to explore your strengths and manage life's challenges. I use humor, empathy and multiple evidence-based therapy models.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist that works with adult individuals 18+ with trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, attachment issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, Autism Level 1, PDA and ADHD.
Through connections we learn about ourselves, others and our world. Sometimes, safe connections and acceptance have been missing in our lives due to neurodivergence, social rejection, abuse or neglect. We may walk through life feeling like outsiders struggling to understand the world and ourselves. In therapy, I work to provide a safe, nurturing place where you can take off your mask and find self compassion, acceptance and healing. I offer trauma informed therapy with collaborative, nonjudgmental support to explore your strengths and manage life's challenges. I use humor, empathy and multiple evidence-based therapy models.
(612) 324-4809 View (612) 324-4809
Photo of Dr. David Connor Nathan, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. David Connor Nathan
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I offer ADHD and Autism Spectrum neuropsychological testing for children, teens and adults between the ages of 7 and 70. I have extensive training and experience in mental health assessment, including a year at the University of Minnesota Discovery Clinic, the UMN child/adolescent neuroscience center during my doctoral studies. I completed my doctoral Internship at Fraser where I also specialized in assessment. Testing is not just about the process of testing, but the quality of feedback and recommendations that can be made based on feedback. I am happy to offer detailed testing results to my clients and their families.
I offer ADHD and Autism Spectrum neuropsychological testing for children, teens and adults between the ages of 7 and 70. I have extensive training and experience in mental health assessment, including a year at the University of Minnesota Discovery Clinic, the UMN child/adolescent neuroscience center during my doctoral studies. I completed my doctoral Internship at Fraser where I also specialized in assessment. Testing is not just about the process of testing, but the quality of feedback and recommendations that can be made based on feedback. I am happy to offer detailed testing results to my clients and their families.
(651) 412-1661 View (651) 412-1661
Photo of Timothy Patrick Lang - Metro Psychological Evaluations, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Metro Psychological Evaluations
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
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.
(651) 778-0972 View (651) 778-0972
Photo of Dr. Krista Yucuis, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Krista Yucuis
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55119  (Online Only)
Whether you're new to therapy or have seen several therapists, diving into it can be a bit much. But therapy's this awesome chance to grow, heal, and change things up for the better. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can openly share and explore any challenges you're facing in life. My areas of expertise include various psychological challenges, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Life Transitions. I also provider ADHD evaluations for individuals ages 18 and older.
Whether you're new to therapy or have seen several therapists, diving into it can be a bit much. But therapy's this awesome chance to grow, heal, and change things up for the better. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can openly share and explore any challenges you're facing in life. My areas of expertise include various psychological challenges, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Life Transitions. I also provider ADHD evaluations for individuals ages 18 and older.
(651) 505-8445 View (651) 505-8445
Photo of Dr. Matt Hall, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Matt Hall
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I specialize in psychological, neuropsychological, and psychoeducational testing and evaluations for children, teens, and adults to identify and address concerns including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, giftedness, and twice exceptionality.
As a parent, you might be feeling helpless as you watch your child struggle with self-confidence, motivation, negative feelings, or relationships. It may be overwhelming to sort through the wide range of service options available and nothing you’ve tried seems to be working yet. I’m here to help. With a comprehensive evaluation you will know exactly where to start from and understand how to navigate the path forward.
I specialize in psychological, neuropsychological, and psychoeducational testing and evaluations for children, teens, and adults to identify and address concerns including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, giftedness, and twice exceptionality.
As a parent, you might be feeling helpless as you watch your child struggle with self-confidence, motivation, negative feelings, or relationships. It may be overwhelming to sort through the wide range of service options available and nothing you’ve tried seems to be working yet. I’m here to help. With a comprehensive evaluation you will know exactly where to start from and understand how to navigate the path forward.
(651) 362-2294 View (651) 362-2294
Photo of Lisa J Nippoldt-Baca, PsyD,  LP, ABPP, Psychologist
Lisa J Nippoldt-Baca
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, ABPP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Nippoldt-Baca specializes in childhood and adult disorders, including: ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, concussion, twice exceptional, evaluations for test accommodations, developmental disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, toxic exposure, and mental health disorders.
Dr. Nippoldt-Baca is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist and board certified subspecialist in pediatric neuropsychology. She is the team neuropsychologist and alternate team neuropsychologist providing concussion care to several professional sports teams in MN. Dr. Nippoldt-Baca serves on several committees for the Sports Neuropsychological Society, and has a podcast with five of her favorite power-women and sports neuropsychologists called, Drmomcast.
Nippoldt-Baca specializes in childhood and adult disorders, including: ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, concussion, twice exceptional, evaluations for test accommodations, developmental disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, toxic exposure, and mental health disorders.
Dr. Nippoldt-Baca is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist and board certified subspecialist in pediatric neuropsychology. She is the team neuropsychologist and alternate team neuropsychologist providing concussion care to several professional sports teams in MN. Dr. Nippoldt-Baca serves on several committees for the Sports Neuropsychological Society, and has a podcast with five of her favorite power-women and sports neuropsychologists called, Drmomcast.
(651) 376-0767 View (651) 376-0767
Photo of Leanne Mairs, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanne Mairs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
I am also an Autism specialist, with experience helping children and adults on the Autism Spectrum.
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
I am also an Autism specialist, with experience helping children and adults on the Autism Spectrum.
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
(651) 433-6415 View (651) 433-6415
Photo of Erin Beecher, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Beecher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55425
Specializing in autism, anxiety, and child development, I provide play therapy for ages 2+, as well as parent-focused sessions.
Do you have concerns about your child’s developmental needs or differences? Are you feeling overwhelmed about how to best support your child, or unsure about where to start? If this describes you, know that you’re not alone. I will work collaboratively with you and your child to navigate the challenges of daily life, relationships, and parenting toward a more harmonious future.
Specializing in autism, anxiety, and child development, I provide play therapy for ages 2+, as well as parent-focused sessions.
Do you have concerns about your child’s developmental needs or differences? Are you feeling overwhelmed about how to best support your child, or unsure about where to start? If this describes you, know that you’re not alone. I will work collaboratively with you and your child to navigate the challenges of daily life, relationships, and parenting toward a more harmonious future.
(952) 592-4087 View (952) 592-4087
Photo of Carrie Snyder, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I specialize in autism spectrum disorders, sexual trauma, neurodivergence, anxiety and depression.
I believe it is important to empower others to consciously narrate their lives. I value helping people through empowerment, nurturance, and education. I am innovative provider and enjoy creativity in the therapy room. I utilize a strengths based approach in therapy, and see the therapy as a collaborative process. I am passionate for helping individuals find confidence and courage, and I admire their resilience.
I specialize in autism spectrum disorders, sexual trauma, neurodivergence, anxiety and depression.
I believe it is important to empower others to consciously narrate their lives. I value helping people through empowerment, nurturance, and education. I am innovative provider and enjoy creativity in the therapy room. I utilize a strengths based approach in therapy, and see the therapy as a collaborative process. I am passionate for helping individuals find confidence and courage, and I admire their resilience.
(612) 688-4138 View (612) 688-4138
Photo of Alyssa Perau, LMFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alyssa Perau
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My specialty is supporting people with autism, ADHD, and Down Syndrome.
Hey there, my name is Alyssa and I use she/they pronouns. I am a queer, neurodivergent marriage and family therapy intern. My specialty is with couples, families, and teens/adolescents. As of right now I do not have any space for individual adults, but will again in 2025. I connect with clients through humor, playfulness, and art-making, which I believe can help work through challenges that life can throw at us. In my opinion, art therapy is not about making profound art but is a tool to help process feelings and discover something new.
My specialty is supporting people with autism, ADHD, and Down Syndrome.
Hey there, my name is Alyssa and I use she/they pronouns. I am a queer, neurodivergent marriage and family therapy intern. My specialty is with couples, families, and teens/adolescents. As of right now I do not have any space for individual adults, but will again in 2025. I connect with clients through humor, playfulness, and art-making, which I believe can help work through challenges that life can throw at us. In my opinion, art therapy is not about making profound art but is a tool to help process feelings and discover something new.
(651) 615-3520 x159 View (651) 615-3520 x159
Photo of Peter Jason Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Jason Meilahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(651) 299-6579 View (651) 299-6579

See more therapy options for Inver Grove Heights

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.